Energy & Natural Resources: Nationwide

THE FIRM The energy and global transactions practice at Akin Gump is a significant player in the oil and gas field, having developed strong and historical relationships with many large industry clients. Drawing from the firm's M&A and capital markets expertise, the team advises on all aspects of transactional work, including financing, tax and potential restructuring issues. Over the past year, it has experienced growth within the midstream sector, particularly with respect to natural gas, LNG and shale gas. Currently, it is representing the individual trustees of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Trust in connection with the collateralization of BP's contribution obligations to the trust.

Client Service "Akin Gump is very accommodating and always seems willing to go the extra mile."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Christine LaFollette represents industry clients in MLPs, restructurings and financings, and public offerings of equity and debt securities. Most recently, she served as chief counsel to Laredo Petroleum in connection with an amended and restated first lien credit facility and a new second lien term loan.

THE FIRM Alston & Bird's Washington, DC office houses a small yet expert FERC regulatory practice. The team works for a variety of clients in the electricity industry, but is most widely recognized for its capabilities in issues connected to transmission and organized power markets. Over the years, it has represented transmission owners and developers and ISOs in the operation and oversight of regional markets, and in the development of financial transmission rights, formula transmission rates and incentive mechanisms.

Sources say: "An outstanding firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Kenneth Jaffe is a highly talented regulatory lawyer, particularly in respect of work involving transmission and interconnection and regulated markets. The market holds Jaffe in great esteem, describing him as "a first-rate, strategic thinker." He has longstanding relationships with several industry clients, including National Grid, FirstEnergy and the California ISO. He continues to act as regulatory counsel to these clients, most recently representing FirstEnergy in rate application matters. Working alongside Jaffe, rising star Sean Atkins is currently leading the firm's representation of the California ISO. He is currently assisting with the development of revised rules for transmission planning and seeking regulatory approvals by the FERC. Clients say he is "very effective at identifying workable solutions."

THE FIRM This firm has played a prominent role in the oil and gas industry for decades, representing clients in both regulatory and transactional work. In Washington, DC, the regulatory team specializes in the natural gas pipeline arena, and is involved in rate cases, compliance and enforcement, and other related issues before FERC; it also offers regulatory support to major oil and gas transactions. In Texas, the firm uses its M&A and securities capabilities to serve industry clients in the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors. It has particular expertise in acting for publicly traded partnerships. On the power side, the firm represents ISOs, transmission owners, generators and end-users in FERC regulatory proceedings, and offers transactional support to such clients.

Client Service "The firm shows special sensitivity to clients' needs, even under time pressure."

KEY INDIVIDUALS FERC litigator Mark Sundback impresses clients with his "tenacity, vast array of knowledge and extreme attention to detail when representing our position." He has broad experience in regulatory issues, but has developed particular strength in representing interstate pipelines in rate cases. Most recently, he achieved a favorable outcome for Portland Natural Gas Transmission from the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia in an unprecedented case concerning the Natural Gas Act of 1938. Michael O'Leary leads the firm's transactional oil and gas practice, and, as cochair of the corporate/securities group, has notable expertise in joint ventures, M&A and master limited partnerships. He recently represented Global Infrastructure Partners in a joint venture with Chesapeake Energy to form Chesapeake Midstream Partners. The transaction was valued at $558 million.

Thomas Bateman is another corporate attorney with an oil and gas focus. His international practice revolves around upstream, midstream and downstream sectors. Most recently, Bateman acted for a non-operator in a multiphase drilling program. Kenneth Wiseman has notable expertise in electric and natural gas regulation, typically representing generation facilities and IPOs. On the electricity side, he recently filed a complaint proceeding against NYISO on behalf of TC Ravenswood in its attempt to seek reimbursement for costs incurred to respond to NYISO's Minimum Oil Burn Order. On the natural gas side, he worked alongside Mark Sundback on the Portland Natural Gas Transmission case. "He's an accomplished attorney who is an excellent advocate for our needs," said one interviewee.

Cheryl Phillips enters the rankings this year having received glowing praise from market sources. She is described as "a pragmatic deal-maker” who has the "ability to deliver quick, practical advice under extreme time pressure." She mainly works on upstream M&A transactions. Shemin Proctor focuses her regulatory and transactional practice on the natural gas and oil industries. She represents clients such as El Paso and Tennessee Natural Gas Pipeline Company in rate, tariff, compliance and complaint matters before the FERC. She also has experience as underwriters' counsel in a variety of energy-related matters. Up-and-comer David Buck is developing a strong reputation for his corporate and securities practice. He is known for his "energetic and dedicated attitude," and recently worked alongside Proctor in the firm's representation of Enterprise Products Partners in its $5.6 billion merger with TEPPCO Partners.

THE FIRM Texas-based Baker Botts fields one of the most respected oil and gas practices across the USA and internationally. It looks after a diverse range of clients, including oil and gas producers, major integrated oil and gas corporations, independent E&P companies, shippers, and investment and capital markets players. It continues to excel in both regulatory and transactional work, and has key expertise in LNG projects. The regulatory group at Baker Botts supports major transactions and handles administrative litigation and day-to-day counseling for a variety of FERC-related matters. In addition to its expertise in oil and gas, the firm has also built a strong regulatory practice to serve the electric power industry. Located in Washington, DC, the team works for utilities, independent generators and renewables developers on traditional FERC counseling, litigation and policy matters. 

Client Service "Baker Botts lawyers attend to each client individually so you always get the best result. They anticipate issues, communicate well and are always proactive."

KEY INDIVIDUALS FERC specialist Thomas Eastment heads up the firm's energy regulatory group. He maintains an oil and gas focus, most often representing US shippers and producers. Over the past year, he has continued his representation of ExxonMobil in proceedings before the FERC, California Public Utilities Commission and US Court of Appeals challenging pipeline rates of SFPP and Calnev. He is described as "a polished and erudite fellow – a tremendous regulatory lawyer." Bruce Kiely is recognized for his "terrific LNG practice." As head of the firm's LNG group, he represents all players within the market including developers, pipelines and utilities in a wide variety of regulatory matters. Most recently, he advised Cheniere Energy on transactional and regulatory issues, pipeline and natural gas and LNG contracting matters concerning the Sabine Pass LNG Terminal.

Kevin Keenan specializes in commercial LNG transactions and associated shipping matters. He recently acted as lead counsel to ExxonMobil in connection with a tender process for a number of conventional LNG carriers for use in lifting the client's equity LNG from the Gorgon LNG project in Australia. Newly appointed oil and gas section chair Hugh Tucker is new to the rankings this year following substantial praise from the market: "Tucker has a huge amount of expertise and works well with our internal team on both a legal and a business level," said one source. Tucker's primary focus is corporate and asset M&A work within the oil and gas industry. He leads the firm's representation of clients across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors, and recently represented Dominion Resources in the $3.475 billion sale of its Appalachian E&P business to a wholly owned subsidiary of CONSOL Energy. Joshua Davidson is a new entry to the oil and gas transactional rankings this year, and focuses on MLP representations and corporate M&A transactions in the oil and gas arena. He is applauded by clients for his "strong grasp of the business principals behind a transaction."

Texas-based George Goolsby also enters the oil and gas transactional rankings this year following recognition from the market. He is traditionally known for his midstream and cross-border pipeline expertise. He worked alongside Tucker on the Dominion Resources sale, and also represented Common Resources in the sale of its Eagle Ford Shale assets to Talisman Energy; the transaction was valued at $359 million. Brooksany Barrowes leads the firm's electricity regulation practice. She handles all manner of FERC and state energy regulatory and policy issues, from rate cases to compliance and enforcement work. "Barrowes has the full game," according to sources. "She has an excellent courtroom demeanor and is quick on her feet, but has also developed a good bedside manner when dealing with internal clients." She is currently working on multiple rate cases before the FERC for subsidiaries of Ameren. Elaine Walsh, who recently joined the firm after having previously lead the energy trading practice at Kirkland & Ellis, has expertise on both the regulatory and transactional sides of the energy industry. She represents utilities, IPPs and private equity clients in M&A, structured trading and hedging, and finance work, and uses her regulatory expertise to support these transactions. "Walsh is extremely diligent and always protects our interests."

William Lamb and Thomas Moore recently joined Baker Botts from Dewey & LeBoeuf. The New York-based Lamb is recognized as a leader in the power industry. In recent years, his practice has tended towards public utility M&A transactions, including acquisitions involving the exchange of public shares. Given his decades of experience, Lamb is understandably described as “extremely experienced and efficient,” and one client commented that he “manages to never miss a beat.” In Houston, Moore has prominent expertise in the oil and gas space. Working on upstream, midstream and downstream matters, he has developed capabilities in cross-border acquisitions. He has negotiated joint venture agreements with leading industry players and represented numerous domestic and international clients in M&A transactions. He is acknowledged as a “skilled draftsman who understands what a business deal is.”

THE FIRM Balch & Bingham has built a forward-thinking nuclear practice through its representation of Southern Nuclear Operating Company and other industry clients. Highly experienced in new plant licensing, the eight-lawyer team is frequently involved in Combined Licenses, early site permitting, EPC contracts, nuclear fuel supply and Nuclear Regulatory Commission compliance and enforcement proceedings. Over the past year, the firm continued to represent the holders of the early site permit and limited work authorization for the construction of an advanced light water reactor in the USA.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Stanford Blanton has decades of experience in the nuclear regulation field, giving him an excellent understanding of contemporary issues and also "a good grasp of legal issues from a historical perspective." He is "a very talented attorney," according to sources, who especially highlight his responsiveness and quick turnaround of work. Blanton recently has represented Southern in connection with the licensing and development of two new nuclear units.

THE FIRM Bracewell & Giuliani's acclaimed energy group has vast experience in oil and gas and power work. On the oil and gas side, it has developed excellent transactional expertise, working with upstream, midstream and downstream clients on mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, corporate and tax structuring, and capital markets and securities matters. In Washington, DC, the regulatory team undertakes FERC litigation and transactional support for pipeline, shipping and gas storage developer clients. On the power side, the regulatory team counsels utilities and merchant generators on FERC and North American Electricity Reliability Corporation (NERC) compliance and enforcement, market design and power trading regulatory issues.

Commercial Awareness "Bracewell & Giuliani is practical – it understands and values business solutions to problems."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Alan Rafte heads the firm's energy and finance group and advises on all manner of deals, from upstream M&A to private equity investments and capital market transactions. He possesses an "excellent knowledge of the industry and industry participants." Recent work includes representing Apache Corporation in its $7 billion acquisition of BP's oil and gas operations, acreage and infrastructure in West Texas, New Mexico and Egypt's Western Desert, and of BP's upstream natural gas business in western Alberta and British Columbia. Charles Shoneman cochairs the firm's energy regulatory department. He has a reputable natural gas pipeline practice, advising on the regulatory aspects of commercial contracting, M&A, financing, and natural gas and LNG projects. He recently represented Conectiv Energy in connection with the waiver of the FERC's capacity release rules to facilitate the sale of electric generation assets to Calpine. Sources highlight his "strategic thinking."

Mark Lewis moves up the rankings this year following excellent market commentary: "His commercial acumen is second to none and he manages to make you feel like his only client.” He has a broad-based energy practice covering both regulatory and transactional work, and has recently represented Upper Midwest Distributor Group in the Northern Natural Gas Company FERC-initiated Section 5 rate case; he also worked on the regulatory aspects of the Apache acquisition. James McAnelly also travels up the rankings this year on the back of positive market feedback. He is lauded for "coming up with viable solutions to complex problems," and has particular capabilities in the upstream and midstream oil and gas arenas. In the past year, he has facilitated in the formation of a joint venture in connection with the ownership, development, gathering and marketing of $1.5–2 billion of West Virginia oil and gas and midstream assets located in the Marcellus Shale.

Michael Telle is an M&A and securities attorney who operates within the energy space. He has acted for major clients within the industry, such as Chesapeake, which he recently represented in a series of private placements of preferred stock valued at $2.7 billion. Sandra Rizzo is extremely well versed in electricity regulatory matters, especially market design and enforcement. She is currently representing PPL in litigation between Midwest ISO and PJM Interconnection regarding disputes over the management of congestion at the border between the two regional transmission organizations. According to clients, she "understands the technical side of the business very well, and is creative and innovative with her legal skills."

Paul Fox and Deanna King are new additions to the electricity regulatory and litigation rankings. The pair have developed a close relationship with Powerex and its Canadian parent BC Hydro, and acted for Powerex in the complex set of proceedings and investigations before the FERC and in related California state and federal court proceedings regarding the California energy crisis. Fox cochairs the firm's energy regulatory department and was also recently made managing partner of the firm's new Seattle office, a move that will further bolster the Powerex relationship. According to clients, he is "sharp and shrewd, a great strategist.” King is based in Texas and also receives praise from the market: "She is articulate, a good writer and a very effective FERC litigator." Kirk Morgan enters the up-and-coming band having recently been made a partner. He works closely with Mark Lewis, partnering on both the Upper Midwest Distributor Group rate case and the regulatory issues surrounding the Apache acquisition. "He continues to surprise with his vast knowledge of not only the law but also the industry and its arcane rules," said one source. Associate David Sweeney works closely with McAnelly and Rafte on many of the firm's major representations, including the Apache acquisition. He is currently focusing on developing an international side to his practice. Bill Wolf, another associate, works alongside Shoneman and has impressed peers, who view him as a future star of Bracewell's energy team.

Kirstin Gibbs recently joined the group from Sutherland Asbill. She "does a great job of explaining complex issues to the layperson." She represents natural gas pipelines, marketers, traders and end-users in compliance and enforcement matters before the FERC, and is also well versed in all aspects of rate, policy and legislative issues involving natural gas and LNG. "She is friendly, respectful and a pleasure to work with.”

The team is further boosted by the arrival some heavy hitters from the now defunct Dewey & LeBoeuf, Catherine McCarthy and John Klauberg. McCarthy moves up the rankings based on her growing electricity regulatory practice, and is described as “knowledgeable, creative and responsive.” She advises electric utilities, IPPs, investors, transmission owners and generators on a wide variety of FERC-related matters. Klauberg is a first-rate transactional attorney who has acted on both mainstream power projects and renewable energy deals. His practice leans towards private M&A and tax-related work.

Since publication, David H. Sweeney has moved in-house.

THE FIRM Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft has launched itself into the energy space with the acquisition of nine partners from McDermott Will & Emery. This newly formed practice will benefit from expertise in energy and commodity enforcement defense, regulatory work and compliance issues across a variety of industry sectors, including power and oil and gas. The team also possesses extensive expertise in structured finance and M&A matters, and has expert knowledge of energy derivatives.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Paul Pantano is widely acclaimed as "the best energy trading lawyer" in the field. Having previously worked at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), he has extensive experience in commodities and derivatives law and is often engaged in FERC and CFTC investigations. He is applauded for his expertise, and clients also report that he is "very responsive – no time goes by before he is there assisting you." Kenneth Irvin represents power and oil and gas industry clients before the FERC and the CFTC, and advises on federal and state commodity matters including hedging and credit risks. He is described as a “pragmatic and personable commercial lawyer.” Daryl Rice works on a broad range of transactional, regulatory and risk management matters, but is perhaps best known for his work on structured power and gas transactions. Clients turn to Rice for a broader, big-picture view of the market. Robert Stephens’ practice encompasses major commodity and infrastructure transactions for energy marketers, financial institutions and project sponsors. Working across both power and oil and gas, Stephens is lauded as “a credit facility wizard” who has a “very good handle on issues that crop up at the last minute.”

THE FIRM As a world-renowned project finance outfit, Chadbourne & Parke is firmly planted within the energy industry. Working on conventional and renewables projects, its lawyers have developed expertise not only in project finance but also in M&A and capital markets transactions. They represent electricity sector clients in acquisition, divestiture and joint venture structuring, as well as tax monetization and securities matters. Additionally, the firm houses a leading regulatory team that offers transactional support for some of the world’s major power projects.

Commercial Awareness "Responsiveness is part of the culture of the firm. I like it. I also like the expertise in renewable energy."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Charles Hord has developed a strong transactional energy practice at the firm, covering M&A, capital markets and financing. Over the past year, he has worked increasingly with underwriters and issuers on the Department of Energy’s loan guarantee program. In the M&A space, he represented SunRay Renewable Energy in connection with its $277 million sale to SunPower. Clients say he is “great in tough situations, and stays cool and collected when others start screaming and shouting.”  Robert Shapiro also provides regulatory advice to many of Chadbourne’s conventional and renewable power projects, and often represents clients in traditional regulatory litigation before the FERC. He has specific expertise in guiding sponsor clients through Department of Energy loan guarantee applications, and recently acted for Edison Mission Energy in a FERC proceeding to defend a transmission service agreement for a 100 MW wind project in New Mexico.

THE FIRM One of the strongest corporate firms in New York, Cleary Gottlieb handles transactional work for major clients, including those operating within the energy sphere. It has notable experience in M&A, finance and capital markets matters for domestic and international clients. When it comes to oil and gas, the firm has been retained for some of the largest and most complex transactions of the year, including representing Citigroup Global Markets as financial adviser to NRG Energy in connection with its back-to-back transaction related to the acquisition of Dynegy by an affiliate of The Blackstone Group for approximately $4.7 billion. Other key clients include Petrobras and PEMEX. The firm is also active in metals and mining, counting BHP Billiton and Vale among its major clients in that sector. Most recently, the firm advised BHP Billiton on its $40 billion all-cash offer to acquire Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Cooper is one of the firm's leading energy attorneys.

THE FIRM Covington & Burling’s energy team enjoys prominence in the electricity and oil and gas industries through its representation of merchant generators, power retailers and investors, successfully blending regulatory expertise with experience in lobbying and legislative work. With several lawyers who have ties to Capitol Hill, clients can take advantage of the firm’s strong relationships and insights into energy policy developments. The team has capabilities in all manner of FERC-related work, including compliance and enforcement, administrative litigation and transactional support.

Sources say: "Covington seems to work as a team better than any other firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Massey is active in power and regulation. As a former FERC commissioner, he has intimate knowledge of the inner workings of the Commission. Clients really appreciate this familiarity, stating: “He has great command of the architecture, strategy and overall objectives of the regulations, and the political framework that surrounds them.” He recently worked for China Investment Corporation on regulatory issues connected to its purchase of a 15% share in AES. Massey also continues to represent the COMPETE Coalition in a wide range of regulatory and legislative matters. Robert Fleishman is highly regarded for his litigation, policy and regulatory work on the oil and gas side. Detail-oriented and creative, he is praised by interviewees for having a “great sense of perspective over what can be achieved.” His recent highlights include representing Energy Transfer Partners in market manipulation investigations by the FERC, and advising major oil and gas companies on energy trading enforcement and compliance matters. Fleishman advises the COMPETE Coalition alongside Massey.

THE FIRM This New York giant is recognized across the USA for its exceptional M&A and securities practice. Drawing on this expertise, the firm regularly engages in corporate work for energy clients, such as utilities, IPPs, midstream and downstream companies, and mining corporations. It is also frequently selected as underwriters' counsel on debt and equity offerings. Key engagements on the oil and gas side include representing the underwriters in connection with two convertible preferred stock offerings by Chesapeake Energy totaling $1.1 billion. It also acted for Barclays Capital, as financial adviser to XTO Energy, in connection with a $41 billion all-stock transaction agreement with ExxonMobil.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Hall is the key contact for the firm's energy work.

THE FIRM The FERC regulatory practice at Davis Wright Tremaine works with IPPs and utilities on a broad range of matters, including hydroelectric power and new power plant siting. Based in Washington, DC, the firm also has expertise in the natural gas pipeline arena. It represents clients before the FERC in administrative litigation, including gas quality and rate, tariff and certificate issues.

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Vasile specializes in the federal regulation of hydroelectric power, focusing in recent years on renewing licensing approvals for hydroelectric power projects. For example, he served as counsel to Idaho Power in the relicensing proceedings for the Swan Falls Project, and to Douglas County PUD in the integrated licensing process for the relicensing of its Wells Project. Becky Bruner recently joined the firm from Pillsbury. She specializes in electricity regulation, acting for utilities and developers on a whole host of FERC-related matters, including compliance, enforcement ratemaking and transmission. Sources describe her as a "sharp, straightforward and efficient" attorney.

THE FIRM Debevoise & Plimpton’s leading private equity investment fund practice offers advice to a wide range of energy sector clients. With expertise not only in funds work but also in M&A, project finance, bankruptcy and tax, the firm can handle the most complex of corporate transactions. Many of the firm’s representations stem from the power sector, and include both conventional and renewable power. It recently acted for Sithe Global in partnership with subsidiaries of Chubu Electric Power and Toyota Tsusho, including on the sale of an aggregate 50% interest in Goreway Station, an 875 MW combined cycle power generating facility located near Toronto. The firm is also active in corporate mining and metals work, and recently represented Phelps Dodge in its $26 billion acquisition by Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sarah Fitts cochairs the energy and natural resources group at Debevoise & Plimpton. With her corporate background, she is well placed to advise clients on M&A transactions, joint ventures and other multiparty governance arrangements across the power and oil and gas industries. Fitts is applauded for “making sense of difficult concepts and successfully drafting them into contracts.”

THE FIRM Recently merged SNR Denton is most notable in the power arena. In recent years, it has developed expertise in electric regulation, and the addition of Stuart Caplan, formerly of White & Case, really bolsters the firm’s reputation in this area. Working with utilities, ISOs, municipalities and other industry participants, the regulatory group advises on a variety of FERC matters. The team's experience extends to generation and transmission issues, rate cases, compliance and enforcement, and support for energy transactions. SNR Denton also offers a prominent climate change policy and regulation practice at the federal and state levels.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Stuart Caplan joined the energy team at SNR Denton in early 2010 and brings a broad range of experience, having represented generators, utilities, financial institutions, hedge funds and traders before the FERC. The market holds Caplan in strong repute, reporting that he "has a good sense of how to develop a client relationship that leads to good negotiations and good outcomes." In his new position, Caplan represented Rayburn Country Electric Cooperative in its acquisition of a 25% undivided interest in Calpine's Freestone Energy Center. Clinton Vince chairs the firm’s energy and regulated industries group, and is a new addition to the rankings this year. He is a widely recognized litigator with experience before district and appellate courts. He recently represented CPS Energy in a multibillion-dollar dispute with NRG regarding the expansion of the South Texas Nuclear Plant.

THE FIRM Dickstein Shapiro is highlighted for its market-leading independent power generation practice. The Washington, DC office is home to a strong regulatory group that advise IPPs on a whole range of FERC-related matters. It regularly engages in transmission, reliability, compliance and enforcement litigation, and provides the regulatory support for transactions in the field. More recently, the firm has widened its scope to include renewables and alternative energy clients. The transactional power practice, based in New York, has grown in size and reputation over the past year. Its lawyers advise investor-owned utilities and other industry clients on M&A, project finance and securities. Dickstein’s practice also crosses into the oil and gas arena, where the regulatory group has specific capabilities in natural gas work. The team represents clients before the Commission in pipeline, gas storage and LNG-related litigation.

Commercial Awareness “Dickstein Shapiro lawyers are very creative, industry-savvy and strategically minded."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Larry Eisenstat heads up the energy practice at Dickstein Shapiro. He has substantial capabilities in the regulatory and litigation side of the energy industry, especially with regards to IPPs. A “confident and appropriately aggressive litigator,” Eisenstat is noted for his enforcement and compliance work before the FERC and the NERC. Over the past year, he has been engaged in a high volume of wind-related work, advising American Wind Energy Association and FirstWind Energy. Mark Perlis is also well recognized for his regulatory work across the electric utility industry. In addition to advising on climate change and biotech issues, he represents clients in FERC enforcement investigations and counsels on compliance policies and procedures. He has impressed clients with his ability to “put together succinct and cogent filings for FERC.” Recent highlights include acting for Calpine in connection with its extensive California generating assets and on its recent acquisition of Conectiv’s generating assets in PJM.

Richard Lehfeldt maintains a broad energy practice covering regulatory, litigation and transactional work. Described as “a strategic thinker and a real talent,” he is applauded by clients for his compliance, enforcement and investigation work. Over the past year, he has been involved in the preparation of testimony and pleadings in connection with Walmart’s efforts to develop demand-side resources in organized competitive markets. Frederick Lowther is a leader in Dickstein’s natural gas regulatory practice. He focuses on the development and regulation of LNG projects, and has built a strong reputation in the field. He offers transactional support as well as litigation representation, and notably served as project counsel to Jordan Cove LNG, representing the project in proceedings before the FERC and advising on permitting procedures.

THE FIRM DLA Piper’s core strengths in energy lie in upstream, midstream and downstream acquisition and divestiture, investment, and joint venture structuring. Using its global platform, this highly reputable firm advises a variety of domestic and international oil and gas industry clients, including Petrobras, Mitsui, HighMount Exploration and Production, and Oasis Petroleum Management.

Sources say: "Very capable. It has a wide reach of resources and a presence in many different markets and disciplines."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jack Langlois is a prominent figure in DLA Piper’s oil and gas transactional practice, primarily representing sponsors in domestic and international deals spanning M&A, joint venture and investment work. He has been involved in some high-profile work of late, including the representation of HighMount Exploration and Production in its $210 million sale of natural gas assets to Walter Energy and the $330 million sale of oil and gas properties to Linn Energy. Clients are especially complimentary about Langlois’ commercial focus.

John Lilyestrom, Kevin Lipson, Lee Alexander and Stefan Krantz all recently joined DLA Piper from Hogan Lovells. Lilyestrom is recognized for his work on the electricity side of regulation matters. He typically represents utilities, power marketers and IPPs in traditional FERC matters. He is praised for his “strong client and government relationships.” Lipson brings his vast experience in oil and gas regulatory matters. Through his representation of pipelines, natural gas users and generators, he “knows the pulse of the regulatory environment" extremely well. In recent years, his litigation practice has developed a strong focus on FERC and CFTC enforcement, and market manipulation cases in particular. Clients are impressed with his confident attitude in court and negotiations, but claim “he always backs it up with substantive knowledge – he’s not just an empty suit.” Alexander is another strong player in the regulatory arena. A "gregarious and engaging litigator," he appears before the FERC in a variety of matters, including administrative litigation, compliance and enforcement. He impresses in the courtroom, displaying “a dynamic and charismatic personality that fills up the room and draws you in.” Krantz is another fine litigator, with a concentration on rate and service issues under the Natural Gas Act. He is described by interviewees as "cerebral yet tenacious – he always made sure our points were preserved."

Since publication, Kevin J Lipson has joined Hogan Lovells US LLP

Since publication, Stefan Krantz has joined Hogan Lovells US LLP

Since publication, John Lilyestrom has joined Hogan Lovells US LLP

THE FIRM This leading energy firm is a preeminent force in the oil and gas arena, with an exceptionally broad practice and a client base to match. With lawyers spread throughout the USA, the firm covers everything from FERC and DOI regulation to corporate transactional work for major industry players. In Houston, the firm’s talented group of transactional attorneys possess expertise in upstream M&A and development work, as well as midstream, downstream and LNG matters. Based in Washington, DC and New York, the firm’s regulatory team advises on natural gas pipeline and LNG and gas storage-related issues. It has a strong reputation in related litigation and maintains one of the premier LNG siting and permitting practices for oil pipeline royalty litigation in the USA.

Client Service “The group is patient, timely and communicative. Its client seminars and legal education workshops are interesting and well worth attending.” 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Irvin heads up Fulbright’s global energy team and has developed a significant upstream oil and gas practice across the USA. He is skilled in a wide range of matters, from exploration and development to M&A and investment. This “world-class attorney has an incredible work ethic and depth of experience.” In addition to his work for Anadarko Petroleum, he recently represented Noble Energy in connection with a drilling rig share agreement for the use of a mobile offshore drilling unit in deepwater offshore West Africa. Deborah Gitomer, a leader in the industry, acts for oil and gas exploration and production companies, pipeline companies and petrochemical and refining companies on acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures and mortgage and asset-based financings. Her recent highlights include representing Cowtown Pipeline in connection with the disposition of a gathering system and treating facility located in Texas to Quicksilver Gas Services and Cowtown Pipeline Partners for a cash purchase price of $95 million.

George Kutzschbach is another strong upstream M&A attorney at the firm. With expertise in the acquisition and sale of oil and gas real property, he advises a variety of industry clients including MitEnergy Upstream and Diamond Offshore Drilling. Kutzschbach has “excellent skills," recently acting as counsel to MitEnergy on the sale of all of its federal and state oil and gas leases and related assets in the Gulf of Mexico to Energy XXI. Peggy Heeg has built a strong regulatory practice with expertise in both FERC and CFTC matters. She works with industry clients on internal investigations concerning market manipulation and compliance, and assists clients with the design of regulatory compliance programs. Interviewees report that Heeg "is practical and has a good business sense.�� She recently advised the conflicts committee of the board of directors of Williams Pipeline Partners on the regulatory aspects of the pending merger of Williams Pipeline Partners and Williams Partners.

Lisa Tonery is widely recognized for her LNG and oil storage regulatory practice. She advises clients on a whole manner of FERC-related issues, including compliance, permitting and litigation. For example, she recently filed applications to the FERC and DOE on behalf of Sabine Pass Liquefaction seeking authorization to construct and operate facilities to liquefy domestic natural gas supplies and export as LNG. According to clients, Tonery has excellent relationships with Commission staff and is “able to navigate the rules and regulations efficiently and effectively.” Associate Tania Perez works directly alongside Tonery and assisted on the Sabine Pass applications. "Perez is extremely open and personable and can solve issues on the spur of the moment," say sources. "She really listens to you as a client.”

As head of the firm’s western lands and energy practice, Poe Leggette’s expertise lies in oil pipeline royalty matters. From his previous role as assistant solicitor to the US Department of the Interior, he has developed significant capabilities in this niche area. Over the past year, he has continued to represent EOG Resources as an intervener in environmental litigation in federal court in Utah. He is described by market sources as "knowledgeable, dedicated and hard-working.” Cochair of Fulbright’s energy litigation group, Daniel McClure is new to the rankings this year. His active trial and appellate practice largely revolves around the oil and gas industry, and he is regarded as an “intelligent and cost-efficient litigator who brings a wealth of experience and a good demeanor to the courtroom.” Most recently, he represented Shell and its affiliates in a qui tam whistleblower suit brought under the False Claims Act. Anthony Danti recently joined the firm from Kirkland & Ellis. He assists power and oil and gas clients with various transactional matters, including M&A and restructuring. He is praised for his "considerable work ethic and dedication to the deal."

Since publication, Anthony M Danti has left this practice.

THE FIRM The energy industry team at Gardere Wynne Sewell represents clients in the oil and gas world on transactional matters including mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, joint ventures and financing, infrastructure development, and capital markets. It works across the upstream, midstream, downstream and offshore sectors, advising clients such as BP, Bristow Group, HMJ Trust and Northern Offshore.

Commercial Awareness "The firm is very responsive and down-to-earth, and knows our business really well. It feels like it's part of our business team."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Larry Stevens is a corporate attorney with a focus on the oil and gas industry. He primarily represents oilfield service companies in M&A transactions and all forms of debt and equity financing. “Level-headed and creative," Stevens is currently acting for the HMJ Trust in connection with its acquisitions in privately held prospect generation companies, E&P companies and seismic acquisition companies. Clients appreciate that “he is not just a great attorney, but an excellent businessman too.”

THE FIRM Greenberg Traurig is fast becoming a major presence in the energy industry. On the regulatory side, it possesses a team of gifted attorneys with significant capabilities in FERC-related matters. Concentrating predominantly on representing pipelines, the attorneys are well versed in tariff construction, shipper complaints and rate case recovery issues. The firm also houses strong transactional energy lawyers. Based in Houston, the group advises oil and gas companies and financial institutions on capital markets matters as well as acquisition, divestiture and oilfield development.

Sources say: "I've been happy with the fact the firm has a national presence. We use the Houston and Dallas offices for work in Texas, but we've had occasion to use its extensive network of attorneys."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Kenneth Minesinger has built up an impressive reputation as a FERC litigator. "He's hard-working and disciplined, and tackles difficult issues extremely effectively," said one source. Working for clients such as El Paso and the State of Alaska, Minesinger handles all manner of regulatory matters, from complex ratemaking, restructuring and licensing proceedings to investigations into market manipulations and other allegations. Currently, he serves as lead counsel to the State of Alaska with regards to the regulations and litigation surrounding the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Project. Howard Nelson is also active in oil and gas regulatory and litigation work. He represents interstate natural gas pipelines before the FERC and offers strategic planning with regard to compliance and other regulatory issues. Significant clients include El Paso, Transcanada and ANR. Douglas Atnipp is the most prominent figure in the firm’s transactional oil and gas practice. His expertise lie in upstream financing, and mezzanine-type lender representations in particular. He impresses with his pragmatic approach to deals, with sources reporting: “He is very practical and doesn’t get hung up on formalities.” Atnipp recently represented Brevet Capital in connection with a workout of energy loans and acquisition of properties.

THE FIRM Hogan Lovells towers over energy regulation in the USA, offering expertise across the board in the natural gas, oil, power and nuclear industries. On the oil and gas side, the firm maintains a focus on natural gas and oil pipeline compliance and enforcement matters, but can handle all manner of FERC-related issues. The lawyers also offer support to major transactions. The firm is further active in the electricity space, acting for clients such as Dominion Resources, Edison International and Virginia Light & Power Company. The regulatory team works on major rate filings, tariff filings and permits for acquisitions. It also advises overseas governments such as the government of Liberia and the government of Rwanda on regulatory structures for emerging markets. Hogan Lovells’ talented nuclear group broadens the market and offers an alternative to the traditional nuclear practices. Combining domestic capabilities with an international slant, the team assists a number of foreign companies with an interest in the US market on Nuclear Regulatory Commission certification and plant licensing, DOE authorizations and trading and export matters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Patrick Nevins is tipped to be a future star in the oil and gas regulatory field. One peer commented: “I think the world of Nevins – he’s still relatively young but he’s going to be one of the best.” Already prominent in the industry, he has significant capabilities in dealing with regulations attached to gas storage and LNG projects. His recent clients include Chevron, Dominion Transmission and Southern California Edison. In addition to his knowledge and technical skills, clients praise Nevins’ written work:���His first draft is usually just about perfect.” John Stough is also active in the energy regulatory space, advising utilities, pipelines and shippers in certificate, rate and complaint proceedings, among others. He recently represented Cleco in connection with its transactions, contracts and tariffs subject to FERC jurisdiction.

Michael Yuffee joined the Hogan Lovells team in January 2011. Primarily a FERC litigator, he handles all manner of work, from administrative litigation, compliance and enforcement to transactional support. His client base includes wholesale power marketers, financial institutions, merchant generators and various energy companies. Interviewees report: “Yuffee won’t just argue for argument’s sake, but will try different approaches and assess risks.” Daniel Stenger leads the firm's nuclear practice group and has expertise in nuclear licensing and regulatory work, nuclear export controls, and nuclear transactional matters. He recently represented Constellation Energy Group in connection with its application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the license transfers associated with the acquisition by EDF of a percentage of Constellation’s existing nuclear energy business. Stenger is a "low-stress attorney – he writes well, accomplishes goals quickly, and is just very easy to deal with." Mary Anne Sullivan is an integral member of the firm’s nuclear practice. Having previously served as general counsel to the US Department of Energy, she is well placed to advise clients on DOE grant applications. She recently served as counsel to Dominion Virginia Power in its efforts to secure a federal loan guarantee to facilitate the development of its North Anna 3 power plant.

Since publication, Michael Yuffee has joined Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP

THE FIRM Hunton & Williams’ power regulation practice enjoys prominence across the country. It is most widely recognized for its representation of public and investor-owned utilities, but also counts ISOs and investors among its clients. The Washington, DC-based lawyers advise on policy issues and project development, as well as traditional FERC and NERC-related matters such as compliance and enforcement. Hunton & Williams is also a market player in the nuclear industry, focusing on DOE loan guarantees, spent nuclear fuel issues, licensing, enforcement, and other nuclear and Nuclear Regulatory Commission-related matters.

Client Service "Hunton's lawyers really take the time to get to know our business, and are always open to easy dialogue."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Donald Irwin has developed a longstanding reputation in the nuclear arena through more than 30 years' industry-specific experience. Market commentators describe him as "the consummate subject matter expert." He is also commended for understanding clients’ business needs and cost concerns. Over the past few months, he has been involved in nuclear relicensing projects and serves as outside counsel to Detroit Edison Company with respect to its power plant. Linda Walsh concentrates on regulatory matters affecting utilities, in particular NERC reliability matters, rates and administrative litigation. She also offers FERC regulatory advice on transaction issues in connection with generator sales and acquisitions and renewables project development. She is "a terrific person to work with – she understands the rationale of everything."

The Hunton energy practice recently achieved a major coup by bringing over an energy capital markets team from Dewey & LeBoeuf. Michael Fitzpatrick acts for both issuers and underwriters. Many of the transactions he advises on involve taxable and tax-exempt securities, including hybrid securities. Market observers say he offers “innovative and pragmatic advice.” Peter O'Brien concentrates on energy company financings. He serves as underwriters' counsel for several large utility systems across the USA, and also advises investment banks on utility-related issues. Clients welcome O’Brien’s understanding of their individual business needs. Bud Ellis represents regulated and non-regulated utilities and other energy companies in M&A and divestiture transactions, public and private capital markets transactions, and structured financing.

THE FIRM Jones Day has a growing energy regulatory offering, with attorneys dedicated to both the power and oil and gas spheres. In Washington, DC, the firm’s electricity regulation experts engage in day-to-day FERC counseling, administrative litigation and transactional support for utilities, independents, transmission companies and renewable developers. In oil and gas, the firm has specific expertise in natural gas policy regarding capacity release, asset management arrangements and market transparency. Jones Day’s New York office is well equipped to advise on transactional energy work. Acting for clients across conventional, renewable and nuclear power, the group utilizes its skills in M&A, joint venture formations and structured finance to assist utilities and financial institutions with industry needs.

Sources say: "We're very pleased with our interactions with Jones Day. Well worth every penny."

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Beh is the most prominent attorney in Jones Day’s electricity regulatory practice. He has developed a broad practice concentrating on traditional FERC work for utilities, administrative litigation and support for commercial energy transactions. He garners positive feedback from market sources, who particularly praise his successful representation of Constellation Energy in its recent market manipulation case. Other key highlights include obtaining the regulatory approvals for the acquisition of the Rocky Mountain Energy Center on behalf of Xcel Energy. Richard Avil handles regulatory work on the oil and gas side. Primarily working for CenterPoint and various subsidiaries of SCANA, Avil has extensive experience on policy work connected with the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America in addition to traditional FERC work. As a result, he is increasingly advising clients on regulatory compliance and enforcement issues. William Henze is a transactional energy attorney who specializes in the representation of utilities and other power industry clients. He engages in M&A and finance work, most recently advising AREVA on a $2 billion DOE loan guarantee to finance the construction of the Eagle Rock plant in Idaho. Henze is particularly noted for his “extensive business knowledge and off-the-charts intelligence.”

THE FIRM King & Spalding possesses one of the finest energy regulatory practices in the USA. Its lawyers are heralded for their knowledge of power and oil and gas regulation and wider industry awareness. Within the power space, the firm has a forte in representing IPPs and power marketers before the FERC. The regulatory team advises Calpine, Mirant and other IPPs on electric transmission tariff and market rules issues, interconnection matters, and enforcement investigations. It also has expertise in regulation policy, Greenfield development and NERC-related matters. In relation to oil & gas regulation, King & Spalding represents domestic and international companies in day-to-day FERC counseling and litigation. The firm��s litigation expertise include oilfield and mass tort cases, and oil pipeline royalty matters. In recent months, King & Spalding has enhanced its transactional energy practice with several lateral hires, including the acquisition of Crayton Bell.

Sources say: "You get what you pay for: excellent representation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Neil Levy is considered one of the leading experts in regulatory work. Covering both electricity and oil and gas matters, he has considerable expertise in all manner of federal regulation work. As one client put it: "He has a depth of knowledge of regulations unlike anyone else I've known in the industry." Levy is most widely recognized for his representation of IPPs, and recently advised Calpine on its $1.65 billion acquisition of 19 power plants in the mid-Atlantic from Conectiv Energy. David Tewksbury moves up the rankings this year based on positive market feedback. "In a sticky situation you want David – he is creative and always manages to go beyond the nuts and bolts," said one source. Tewksbury works closely with Levy in advising various IPPs on ISO New England market matters, including issues concerning mitigation of resources required for reliability. They worked together on the firm’s Calpine representation and on the representation of Mirant in connection with regulatory matters relating to a $3.1 billion merger with RRI Energy.

Bruce Richardson has developed a broad energy practice that covers regulatory and transactional work. Specifically, his strengths lie in NERC reliability investigations and technical transmission issues. He worked alongside Levy and Tewksbury in the counseling and representation of LS Power and its affiliate, Great Basin, in connection with the development of a merchant electric transmission line in Nevada and Idaho. Charles Engel works primarily with clients in the oil and gas industry. He has built a niche practice at the crossroads of energy litigation and antitrust issues, working before the Minerals Management Service of the DOI. He deals with royalties, false claim matters and other litigation now stemming from Deepwater Horizon. Engel currently represents Chevron in connection with royalties owed on production from federal oil and gas leases. He is "analytical, helpful and responsive." Crayton Bell recently joined King & Spalding from Milbank. He is a corporate energy attorney with a focus on power M&A for utilities and independent generators. He boosts the firm’s capabilities in transactional electricity work having previously worked on major deals for NRG and MACH Gen. A recent recruit from Dewey & LeBoeuf, James Bowe climbs the oil and gas regulatory rankings this year based on his extensive industry knowledge and excellent advice. Clients comment that “because Bowe knows the law so well, you can go to him and know you will get excellent, well thought out advice that works both in theory and in the real world.”

THE FIRM The energy practice here is primarily centered around its sophisticated corporate expertise. It draws on its experience in capital markets, M&A and restructuring to advise power and oil and gas industry clients on major transactions. With several multitalented partners in the ranks, Kirkland can also provide regulatory support to these transactions. On the electricity side, the firm has longstanding relationships in the independent power community. Its representations in the oil industry involve integrated oil companies and other clients.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mitch Hertz is an exemplary transactional energy attorney who concentrates on M&A and restructuring. He has a background in regulatory work, and clients believe his broad base of expertise means Hertz "truly understands how energy deals can be structured.” His skill and attitude have also impressed clients: “He is extremely practical and thinks from a tactical perspective.” Over the past year, he has represented NRG in the sale of its 4,000 MW Padoma Wind development company to a subsidiary of Enel North America, and in its purchase of South Trent Wind.

THE FIRM Latham & Watkins' comprehensive energy practice traditionally focuses on the power industry. It is a leading player in corporate transactional matters and undertakes work for a variety of clients, including utilities. Drawing on its capital markets and securities practices, the firm also serves as underwriters' counsel on major industry deals. It has additional strength in energy regulation. Not only does the team of FERC attorneys provide transactional support, but it also has specific expertise in administrative litigation, day-to-day counseling, transmission and interconnection, organized markets issues, policy and DOE loan guarantee applications. The firm opened a Houston office in early 2010, hiring Michael Darden and others to spearhead its growth in the oil and gas arena. It now has expertise in the upstream sector.

Commercial Awareness "The firm keeps abreast of industry developments and provides solution-oriented advice."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jonathan Rod is a high-profile transactional attorney whose work spans the power and oil and gas industries. This "top-drawer" attorney has significant capabilities in capital markets, bank finance and project finance. "He is quick on his feet and anticipates issues before they arise," say sources. Recent highlights include advising Sheridan Production Partners on the refinancing of an existing loan term credit facility by a syndicated bank. Edward Sonnenschein is a corporate attorney specializing in M&A, joint ventures, restructurings and spin-offs. A large part of his practice revolves around the energy industry, acting for utilities, IPPs and private equity entities. Most recently, he facilitated a joint venture between Global Infrastructure Partners and Chesapeake Energy to create Chesapeake Midstream, a natural gas gathering company; the transaction was valued at $588 million.

David Schwartz heads up Latham & Watkins�� energy regulatory and markets group. He regularly appears before the FERC, the CFTC and the DOE, representing entities involved in electric generation, transmission and distribution, and electric and gas marketing and trading. He also has significant experience in negotiating power purchase agreements and restructurings. He recently advised Allegheny Power and Allegheny Energy Supply on regulatory matters, particularly those related to market design and implementation in the PJM market. "He's not only an excellent lawyer, but also a really great person."

Michael Gergen has a broad energy practice covering policy issues and complex conceptual legislation, as well as traditional regulatory work before federal and state commissions. He has developed a positive reputation in the industry as "a quick, clever and creative lawyer.” Over the past year, Gergen has acted for Mirant on regulatory and market matters related to its generation assets, and power marketing operations in PJM and New England markets. Natasha Gianvecchio is a younger partner at the firm and works alongside Schwartz on regulatory issues. She assisted with the firm’s representation of Alleghany Power, and also has expertise in transactional work, particularly project development. Michael Darden concentrates on representing international and domestic oil and gas clients, and has specific expertise in upstream acquisitions and divestitures, oil and gas ventures such as LNG and deep water development projects, and E&P. Former Morgan Lewis attorney Michael King focuses on upstream transactional matters, advising clients on acquisitions, divestitures and project development. Sources note his "overall knowledge of the industry, practical approach to the issues, and the ease with which he works with in-house counsel and clients.”

Robin Fredrickson, who recently joined the firm from V&E, is a general M&A and corporate lawyer who focuses on a broad range of energy matters. She advises private equity firms and other industry participants, and is lauded for her depth of experience, particularly in deals based in the Gulf of Mexico.

THE FIRM With roots in Texas, this firm has cultivated strong relationships with many major oil and gas industry players. It has expertise in all aspects of the market, from exploration and production to transmission and storage. The transactional group engages in M&A work, joint venture formations, financings and investment. For example, the firm advised Quantum Resources on its $900 million acquisition of oil and gas producing properties from Encore Operating, and represented BP in connection a $20 billion production payment into the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Trust. Other clients include El Paso, Shell and EnergyQuest.

Sources say: "We have the capacity to choose any counsel we want, but we continually bring our business back to this firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Patton cochairs the energy practice and is a talented upstream M&A and joint venture attorney with decades of industry experience. In the past year, he has served as counsel to EnergyQuest II in the $265 million sale of assets to Texas Petroleum Investment Company. "He works so hard to protect your best interests and to get the deal done," said a source. "He always has his eyes on the solution and understands exactly where you are coming from."

THE FIRM Milbank is most highly regarded for its representation of financial institutions in connection with energy sector transactions. It has developed exceptional skills in structured finance and derivatives, as well as M&A, investment and capital markets matters. Perhaps best known for its work in the power sector, Milbank recently served as counsel to Credit Suisse and the other underwriters in a $615 million public offering for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners of limited partnership units. In the oil and gas sphere, the firm represented the lenders, including Export-Import Bank of Korea and seven commercial banks, in the $680 million financing for the Manzanillo LNG facility, a regasification terminal located in Manzanillo, Mexico.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Eric Silverman and Jonathan Green lead the energy work at Milbank Tweed.

THE FIRM Many of the nation’s municipal and cooperative utilities turn to this boutique firm for expert advice on both regulatory and transactional issues. The 11-partner firm works across the electricity and oil and gas industries on FERC-related matters such as rates, tariffs, interconnection and transmission issues, and organized market concerns. On the transactional side, the firm assists clients with a variety of work, including generation purchase acquisitions, tolling agreements and bulk supply arrangements.

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Miller is a key contact for all types of energy regulatory proceedings.

THE FIRM Morgan Lewis & Bockius excels across the whole energy industry, with expertise in electricity, nuclear power, and oil and gas. It has the premier nuclear practice in the USA, and is frequently retained to advise on transactional, licensing and regulatory matters for the largest industry players. In the past year, the group has been involved in strategic planning for new nuclear plant projects, has assisted foreign companies with inbound investment, and has appeared before the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in connection with licensing applications for clients. The Washington, DC office is home to the firm’s regulatory experts. Across the power and oil and gas fields, it typically represents utilities, independent producers, marketers, storage developers and end-users before the FERC and the CFTC. It has particular expertise in handling compliance and enforcement investigations. Morgan Lewis’ abilities also extend to complex transactional work. In New York, attorneys focus on electricity generation M&A, financing and capital markets work. On the oil and gas side, the firm advises oil majors, super-majors and independents on key domestic and international M&A and development.

Commercial Awareness "The firm worked very well with our internal people. Its lawyers didn't feel the need to swoop in and control all aspects of everything."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jay Gutierrez stands at the forefront of Morgan Lewis’ premier nuclear practice. A longstanding expert, he has considerable experience in all manner of issues, ranging from ownership to operation and regulation of nuclear power plants. He is praised for his successful building and management of the firm’s practice, and is described as "an excellent strategic thinker." His key clients include Exelon Generation Company, EDF Energy and Pinnacle West Capital. Kathryn Sutton leads the firm’s energy practice and also has a specialty in the nuclear industry. She has extensive experience in regulatory and adjudicatory matters as well as nuclear plant license renewals. Clients find her "incredibly easy to work with," citing her writing skills and demeanor as particular strengths. "She writes quickly and clearly and handles herself extremely well."

Steven Frantz focuses mainly on the certification and licensing of new nuclear power plants. According to interviewees: “Frantz is in another league when it comes to new plant matters.” Over the years, he has appeared before the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a variety of clients, including NuStart Energy Development and STP Nuclear Operating Company. Sources laud his "knowledge base and technical abilities." Donald Silverman focuses on representing clients such as utilities and fuel cycle companies in proceedings before the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and federal courts. His experience also extends to various matters related to the Department of Energy, including Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulation of DOE facilities and DOE’s PAAA nuclear safety regulations. "He's a very cool customer under fire," say sources. John Matthews is "at the epicenter of all things nuclear in Washington." He frequently assists clients with the regulatory aspects of their commercial transactions, whether M&A, financing or development. He is also widely recognized in the market for his expertise in decommissioning trust fund issues, and is "phenomenal at offering the business perspective." Alex Polonsky is a rising star in the nuclear field, recognized for his "bright and incisive mind." He works alongside Silverman on Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing and litigation, bringing a blend of nuclear and environmental regulation expertise. He has also been involved in power up-rate applications for US utilities. According to interviewees, he is "a huge asset of the type that's hard to come by." 

Senior counsel George Edgar is "one of the true giants of the nuclear Bar." He has decades of experience in representing industry clients before the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and federal courts. He also works on commercial transactions and has significant capabilities in the financing and restructuring of nuclear projects. Robert Reger is highly proficient in electricity corporate finance and capital markets work. A "superb securities law counsel," he acts for investor-owned utilities and underwriters in connection with private issuances of debt and equity securities, among other matters. He represented Florida Power & Light Company in the issuance and sale of $500 million of its 5.69% first mortgage bonds. Younger partner Thomas Giblin works alongside Reger, and assisted with the firm’s recent representation of Florida Power & Light Company. Another capital markets expert with a focus on public utilities, Giblin is praised for "not only providing the pure legal advice but keeping business considerations in mind too." Together, Reger and Giblin represented Constellation Energy in connection with its cash tender for certain outstanding debt securities, pursuant to which Constellation repurchased $486.5 million of its outstanding 7% Notes due April 1, 2012.

Another strong transactional attorney at Morgan Lewis is Douglas Davidson. Focusing on the power industry, he covers a broad range of corporate matters, including acquisitions and divestitures, securities law and energy finance and regulation. He primarily represents utilities, IPPs and underwriting firms, and is said to have a "tremendous understanding of the electricity industry." His recent engagements include serving as counsel to International Power America in its proposed acquisition of Tessera Solar. John Hood is a new entrant to the electricity transactional rankings this year. With a broad corporate practice in the energy industry, he has experience in M&A work, joint ventures, corporate finance and securities law. He is particularly recognized for his work on complex leverage lease deals and is described as "extremely talented and dependable."

On the regulatory side, John McGrane represents electric utilities, power marketers and other industry clients in proceedings before the FERC. He has experience in all aspects of regulation but, in recent years, has turned more towards enforcement investigations. A "seasoned and experienced" FERC attorney, McGrane is lauded for his deep understanding of each individual client’s business needs. Floyd Norton is another of Morgan Lewis’ leading regulatory attorneys. He has many years' experience of acting for electric utilities in a variety of FERC-related matters, including ratemaking, cost allocation, enforcement and transmission. "Not only is Norton capable and attuned to the needs of our company, but he is also a genuinely great guy to work with." Up-and-comer Stephen Spina is developing a solid reputation in FERC and NERC reliability matters, and has represented industry clients in audits and investigations before the two regulatory bodies. He works alongside McGrane and Norton and is considered by sources to be a "real expert on reliability issues who has fantastic judgment." Glen Bernstein's recent arrival from Sidley Austin has substantially bolstered Morgan Lewis' electricity regulation practice. He brings with him masses of experience of working with industry clients, especially utilities, in transmission and interconnection matters. "He is great to work with – he’s even-keeled and practical," say sources.

David Asmus is widely hailed as the premier oil and gas transactional attorney in the USA, combining his exceptional market knowledge with his previous training as a geophysicist. He represents major industry clients in domestic and international M&A work, LNG, offshore and pipeline development and energy-based financings. He is most highly praised for his client-focused and down-to-earth attitude. "He is known across the world but makes you feel like his most important client," said a source. Asmus recently represented Total E&P USA in connection with its acquisition of 25% of Chesapeake Energy’s upstream Barnett Shale assets. Regulatory attorney Mark Haskell has years of experience in representing oil pipelines, marketers, distribution companies and natural gas consumers in FERC and CFTC-related matters. He offers expertise in enforcement investigations, compliance and ratemaking, as well as regulatory support to major oil and gas transactions. Clients highlight his strong relationship with the Commission as one of his key strengths. Brett Snyder, another new addition to the practice, this time from Dewey, specializes in oil and gas regulation, serving as counsel to new natural gas pipelines, storage providers and LNG terminal facilities. He instills confidence in his clients, as he “understands the impact of regulations and legal issues from a business perspective.” He is developing strong litigation expertise in complex compliance matters before the FERC. Litigation expert Charles Moore recently joined the team from Dewey & LeBoeuf. Highly regarded in the oil and gas regulatory world, he has expertise in a wide range of matters, and regularly appears before the FERC and the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

THE FIRM Orrick has a prevalent energy transactional practice. It represents integrated utilities, independent power companies and financial institutions, advising on a wide array of matters, including M&A, joint venture formations, financing and project development. It counts Energy Source, First Solar and BrightSource Energy among its major clients. Most recently, the firm has represented EnergySource and its majority owners, Hannon Armstrong Capital and Catalyst Renewables, in a $400 million debt and equity financing of the geothermal Hudson Ranch I project located in Southern California.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Adam Wenner, a recent recruit from Chadbourne, is described by sources as "the master of the intricacies of energy regulation." His experience includes advising on the regulatory aspects of domestic and international power projects. Clients and peers are impressed that he "is actually willing to take a position instead of always putting it to the regulators."

THE FIRM Pillsbury Winthrop is highlighted for its prowess in electricity and nuclear regulation and its extensive capital markets practice. In the nuclear arena, it is recognized as a leader in the financing of nuclear plants, but it also offers strong transactional regulatory support, policy advice and expertise in plant licensing. The nuclear group is known worldwide for its representation of utilities, IPPs, overseas investors and governments, among other clients. The firm’s regulatory practice crosses into the electricity industry, with clients such as PacifiCorp, Allegheny and AEP. The Washington, DC-based group works on a diverse range of FERC-related matters, such as transmission, interconnection, market design, rate cases and issues related to project development. In New York, Pillsbury has considerable strength in energy-related capital markets work, particularly in connection with the electricity field. Its capital markets experts concentrate on the representation of underwriters, financial intermediaries and lenders on major issuances. For example, it recently represented the underwriters in connection with a $250 million senior note financing for Ameren Energy Generating Company, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation.

Client Service "The team is exceptionally mindful of client relationships. They are great communicators with a dedicated approach that is integral to the firm's culture."

Commercial Awareness "We are most impressed by the wealth of institutional knowledge at Pillsbury."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jay Silberg is one of the most celebrated nuclear regulatory attorneys in the USA and covers all aspects of Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulation, including licensing, permitting and rulemaking actions. He is also the country’s leading authority on spent nuclear fuel, and has continued to represent electric utilities in litigation to establish and enforce the DOE’s responsibility to dispose of commercial spent nuclear fuel. As one of the firm’s foremost relationship partners, he has impressed clients with his "personable, straightforward and accommodating attitude." John O'Neill is also well recognized as a leader in nuclear industry regulation. He heads the firm’s regulatory practice and has significant expertise in the development of new plant facilities, including new plant licensing, investment, and reactor design and construction. He is currently representing NextEra Energy Resources in the Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing proceeding and the negotiation of the EPC contract for two units of the Turkey Point Nuclear Plant. "He is considered highly credible by the Commission."

Firmwide section leader David Lewis is an extremely capable Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulatory lawyer, with significant capabilities in license renewal issues. He is described as "very substantive – he brings a lot of experience and subject matter knowledge to the table." Over the past year, he has continued to represent PPL in its development of a new nuclear plant. Charles Peterson has developed an internationally driven nuclear practice concentrating on commercial and regulatory matters across the world. He is especially noted for his "excellence in negotiating procurement contracts," and has been representing Emirates Nuclear Energy in the development of a national nuclear program for the UAE.

Capital markets expert Jeffrey Delaney represents utilities and underwriters in complex energy transactions. Most recently, he acted for PSEG Power LLC in connection with a $550 million, two tranche, private senior notes issuance, and a concurrent private exchange offer with respect to a series of its outstanding senior notes. Market commentators highlight his intelligence and client focus as two of his major strengths. Younger partner David Baxter often works alongside Delaney, and recently took the lead on the firm’s representation of a syndicate of lending institutions in connection with two series of private placements of first mortgage bonds to more than 30 insurance companies.

Anthony Terrell recently joined the practice from Dewey & LeBoeuf. A capital markets lawyer, he represents issuers and underwriters in public and private securities offerings within the energy industry. He also works on project finance and lease transactions involving a variety of energy-related assets. Sources say he is "creative and practical with his advice."

THE FIRM Porter Hedges has a firm grasp on the oil and gas industry from its office in Houston, Texas. The transactional group advises key clients such as Noble Energy, Talisman Energy and Petrohawk on most aspects of the business. Specific expertise includes exploration, production and development, upstream asset sale, and purchase and general M&A work. It also has capabilities in reserve-based finance and debt and equity capital markets.

Sources say: "An outstanding group – great value."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice chair Robert Thomas is dedicated to representing oil and gas companies in all segments of the energy business, in particular the upstream and midstream phases. He has considerable expertise in M&A work, financing of assets, debt and equity offerings, and development of gas storage facilities. He recently completed a $360 million acquisition of Common Resources for Talisman Energy. A client-focused attorney, he "keeps in good communication with us so he is always abreast of what we are doing," say clients. Randall King is a new entry to the oil and gas transactional rankings this year. His prior experience of working as a certified professional independent petroleum landman has given him a great insight into the industry. King now concentrates on upstream and midstream work and has taken the lead on numerous acquisitions and divestitures across the field. Most recently, he has represented Noble Energy in a $554 million asset sale to Citation Oil & Gas.

THE FIRM Bruder Gentile & Marcoux is one of the best energy boutiques in the country. It has extensive experience in the regulation of both the electricity and natural gas markets. With 11 talented lawyers devoted to FERC-related work, the firm has built up an impressive reputation among clients.

Commercial Awareness "The advice is right on the money in terms of the law but is also very commercially driven."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Thomas Blackburn has substantial expertise in the energy regulatory arena, representing investor-owned utilities and electric cooperatives before the FERC. He handles a wide variety of matters, including transmission rates, incentive transmission rates and compliance. Well respected in the industry, Blackburn "has a stabilizing, down-to-earth attitude, and always takes a practical approach to the issues."

Since publication, Thomas Blackburn has joined Schiff Hardin LLP

THE FIRM Sidley Austin’s energy offering comprises an excellent oil pipeline regulatory and litigation practice, and an up-and-coming electricity regulatory group. In relation to power, the firm represents major utilities and other industry players. It possesses good FERC and NERC capacity, and capabilities in handling transmission and interconnection issues, organized market matters, rate cases and other administrative and appellate litigation. On the oil and gas side, it has a comprehensive practice that represents market participants such as TransCanada, ExxonMobil and TEPPCO. It provides regulatory counseling in connection with permitting and compliance, and enforcement investigations, and offers regulatory support in business transactions and project development. It also has good litigation capacity. In recent years, the firm has earned recognition for the representation of oil pipelines in FERC applications for authorization to change market-based rates.

Sources say: "The firm size allows it to support you on a wide variety of things in a seamless fashion."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Eugene Elrod is a highly prominent attorney in the oil pipeline arena. He has an extensive FERC practice, with a current focus on enforcement and investigations. "Smart and dedicated," he manages to put clients at ease, with one saying: "There was literally never an issue I felt he wasn’t on top of." Elrod currently serves as lead counsel to ExxonMobil and TransCanada in connection with the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Project. He is also representing ExxonMobil in the longrunning TAPS Quality Bank dispute. William Williams is active in both oil and natural gas regulation matters, and frequently represents pipelines and other clients in litigation before the FERC. He is respected in the industry as "a lawyer who balances the regulatory requirements with business and commercial needs." Over the past year, he has continued to advise TransCanada on the Keystone crude oil pipeline.

Stan Berman is praised for "matching what the client wants to achieve with a legal strategy." His expertise lies in federal and state regulatory work, and in recent years he has been advising Exelon and its subsidiary ComEd on FERC transmission issues and related rate matters. "He is extremely thoughtful and can see the strategic landscape of things very clearly." James Rice is a new arrival from Akin Gump. He has a dedicated corporate oil and gas practice, with a specific focus on M&A, private equity investments and institutional financing. Engaged in upstream, midstream and downstream work, Rice is praised for his "exceptional knowledge and ability to get deals done."

THE FIRM This firm has one of the leading investment funds transactional practices in the USA, and is well placed to advise clients on M&A and investment work in the energy space. The group represents a broad range of clients, from utilities to financial institutions and private equity funds. Additionally, the firm has notable capabilities in securities matters, and is frequently involved in some of the largest offerings in both the power and oil and gas industries. Recent highlights include representing an affiliate of The Blackstone Group in its $4.7 billion acquisition of Dynegy. On the capital markets side, the firm assisted Massachusetts Electric in connection with its $800 million offering of 5.9% senior notes.

Commercial Awareness “Simpson Thacher works to solve problems in the most constructive way, with a complete understanding of the interests of all industry parties.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Lieberman is the leading energy contact at the firm.

THE FIRM Skadden Arps is one of the greatest names in energy law across the USA. From power to oil and gas, and from regulatory to transactional, the firm is a true market leader. Led by Clifford Naeve, the firm’s electric regulation practice stands head and shoulders above its competitors. It offers the full range of transaction-related regulatory work, as well as FERC and CFTC enforcement, compliance and administrative litigation. The regulatory team represents utilities, IPPs and merchant transmission owners, among others. Spread across Washington, DC, New York and Houston, the firm’s transactional group is also well recognized in the power industry, and has particular capabilities in M&A and capital markets work. Skadden Arps also maintains a quality oil and gas regulatory practice focused on representing natural gas pipelines and LNG facilities. The team works on FERC compliance and enforcement investigations, and also supports the firm’s oil and gas transactional practice. Drawing on the firm’s corporate M&A expertise and Houston presence, the group handles a variety of upstream, midstream and downstream corporate work for major industry participants.

Client Service "The firm is speedy, efficient and can pull in resources from all over to meet our individual needs."

Commercial Awareness "Skadden Arps understands my business better than I do! Its lawyers turn over all the rocks to provide a complete analysis that is not only legally sound, but also right for our business objectives."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clifford Naeve sits at the pinnacle of energy regulatory law and is described as an "absolute legend." His sophisticated practice spans the electric power and natural gas industries. According to peers, he is "the complete package – extremely intellectual, a former FERC commissioner, and a wonderful human being." In recent months, he has worked for major clients on transmission cases, wholesale rate proceedings and FERC enforcement proceedings. He recently represented Florida Power & Light before the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in connection with affirming FERC orders regarding which transmission facilities could be included in its rate base. "He is cordial and friendly, his style is very open and communicative, and he doesn't posture for his clients to try to show off. His approach is really about respect for everybody in the room."

William Scherman is an elite FERC litigator whose practice spans both the electricity and natural gas industries. With specific expertise in market power issues, he is highly sought after by key industry clients, who say: "He has terrific business and strategic judgment, picks his sticking points and knows exactly when to push and when to back off." He recently represented Energy Transfer Partners in connection with a FERC order brought against it seeking $200 million in civil penalties for manipulation of prices. He also acted for El Paso Merchant Energy in relation to allegations of market power. FERC former general counsel John Moot is another exceptionally talented litigator at Skadden. He has capabilities in all aspects of regulation, from enforcement and compliance matters to transactional regulatory counseling. In recent years, he has concentrated on reliability and transmission reform, and recently represented FirstEnergy in connection with transmission cost allocation rules applicable to a transfer from one regional transmission organization to another. Moot is considered a go-to guy for "dissecting Commission policies, explaining what is wrong with them, and offering a roadmap of how to successfully change them."

John Estes has a strong FERC and appellate litigation practice that involves market design, structure and manipulation matters across both the electric and natural gas industries. He currently serves as counsel to the New England Power Generators Association in seeking critical modifications to the New England capacity markets. On the natural gas side, he represented Energy Transfer Partners in trial proceedings concerning alleged market manipulation. According to clients: "He is the perfect administrative litigator because he combines a love of oral argument with excellent writing skills." William Conway largely acts for utilities, IPPs and financial investors in transactional regulatory matters. "He doesn’t waste time on frivolous issues," say clients. "Because he understands deals and their commercial basis, his legal work always reflects the nature of the transaction." Most recently, he acted for AES in regulatory matters concerning a $1.6 billion investment by China Investment Corporation.

Sheldon Adler is a prominent M&A attorney who primarily focuses on the power industry. He handles public utility merger transactions and generation asset divestiture transactions for clients such as Duke Energy, Pacific Enterprises, Sierra Pacific Resources and New England Electric System. He is recognized as "someone who blends transactional expertise with industry immersion." He is currently engaged in work for National Grid concerning the sale of two New Hampshire utilities. Pankaj Sinha heads up the firm’s M&A group in Washington, DC. A corporate attorney with a broad skill set, he has expertise in M&A, corporate finance and securities matters. He is described as "a tireless worker, very detail-oriented, and always available and accessible." This past year, Sinha has represented Allegheny Energy in its $4.7 billion acquisition by FirstEnergy.

Ann Hawkins represents developers, investors, traders and financial institutions in a wide range of energy transactions. She is involved in acquisitions, dispositions and energy trading, most recently acting for FirstEnergy Solutions in its acquisition of a contract to provide retail electric energy to customers served by Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council. "She provides an excellent, well-reasoned work product and is adept at getting opposing counsel to see reason too.”

Since publication, William S Scherman has joined Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP

Since publication, William S Scherman has joined Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP

THE FIRM Spiegel & McDiarmid is a small yet high-quality firm that focuses its electric regulation practice almost exclusively on municipal and cooperative utilities and other smaller market participants. Based in Washington, DC, the firm handles contentious and non-contentious FERC matters, including rate cases, wholesale purchase of power, interconnection and transmission issues, and market design. It also provides regulatory support to clients for the acquisition and sale of generating and transmission assets. Additionally, it is one of the leaders in hydroelectric power, advising on everything from licensing to compliance and enforcement.

Sources say: "It has a very well-rounded practice and its staff are pretty seasoned."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert McDiarmid spearheads the firm's representation of municipalities and cooperatives. He works on infrastructure and transmission policy, as well as litigation stemming from the California energy crisis. Clients welcome his background in mechanical engineering and physics, saying: "He understands the electrical theory as well as the legal issues."

THE FIRM Steptoe & Johnson fields one of the premier regulation practices in the USA. From electricity to oil pipelines, the firm is noted for its in-depth knowledge and all-round excellence. On the power side, its core clients are utilities, IPPs, merchant transmission and power marketers. The regulatory team has expertise in FERC and NERC compliance standards, transmission and interconnection issues, rate cases and enforcement investigations. It also has a niche in energy-related antitrust matters, and has taken a leading role in California energy crisis litigation. The firm's outstanding capabilities in oil pipeline regulation put the firm at the forefront of the industry. Its attorneys advise both integrated oil companies and independent pipeline companies on all manner of regulatory matters. In recent years, it has experienced a growth in transactional-related work and cross-border pipeline projects. It is currently involved in FERC proceedings for the Association of Oil Pipelines (AOPL) and TAPS-related litigation.

Commercial Awareness "Quite simply, Steptoe & Johnson knows the industry. This knowledge gives it a real ability to interpret and advise clients on strategy oriented towards business results."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Raskin is at the forefront of the firm’s electricity regulatory practice. He has wide-ranging experience in all aspects of regulation, but in recent years has focused on the development of transmission in order to integrate renewable generation into the US grid. He is currently working with Tres Amigas on the development and construction of a superstation that will integrate the three US interconnections at one location."He's the real deal – experienced, passionate and excellent on his feet," say sources. Richard Roberts is another fantastically talented regulatory litigator. "Diplomatic and strategic," he represents energy companies in all aspects of electric regulation. For many years, he has served as trial counsel to Southern California Edison in leading a coalition of California utilities and agencies to pursue recovery of billions of dollars in overcharges stemming from the power crisis of 2000/01.

Steven Ross is a new entrant to the regulatory rankings this year. A previous legal adviser to the Commission, he has significant experience in a wide variety of FERC-related matters and is described as "sharp and capable with a realistic approach to cases." Key clients include Duke Energy, AEP, MidAmerican Energy and NV Energy. Douglas Green’s electric power practice operates at the crossroads of antitrust, economic regulation and litigation. He is highly respected in the industry, combining strong transactional and regulatory experience, and is described as "a bright, insightful and trusted counselor." He is currently serving as trial counsel to Southern California Edison in allegations brought by the Navajo and Hopi native Indian tribes concerning appropriate coal royalty rate for coal mined on the tribes’ reservations.

Steven Brose is widely regarded as one of the top oil pipeline FERC practitioners in the country. Over the years, he has represented numerous oil pipeline companies in complex litigation before the Commission. A dean of the oil pipeline Bar, Brose is commended as an "exceptional strategist who brings a creative, let’s-solve-the-problem approach to his work." He was recently selected as lead counsel to represent the AOPL in proceedings involving the FERC’s review of its inflation-based oil pipeline rate ceiling methodology. "He knows the oil pipeline regulation area better than anyone else in the business," say sources. Steven Reed is another phenomenal FERC litigator: "He is excellent at everything he does – articulate, timely and anticipatory of our needs. Reed balances the line perfectly." An expert in the oil pipeline business, he counts ConocoPhillips, Kuparuk Transportation Company and Enbridge among his major clients, the latter of which he is currently serving as lead counsel to in a FERC proceeding challenging the US spot shipper rates for Enbridge’s Southern Lights Pipeline. Both Reed and Brose represent ConocoPhillips in ongoing TAPS-related litigation concerning interstate rates. Daniel Poynor works directly with Brose and Reed, and is following closely in their footsteps. He is a rising star who "has a way of making very complex issues straightforward and easy to understand."

THE FIRM Stinson Morrison Hecker’s regulatory offering is one of the best choices for small market participants such as municipal and cooperative utilities. The group has a deep understanding of the electric industry, and expertise that encompasses rate-making and tariffs, transmission and interconnection agreements, and regulatory support for M&A and asset transfer work. The firm is also involved in the development of regional transmission organization structures and frequently assists clients with related transmission and market issues.

Sources say: "A lot of veteran partners – the firm has a lot of capability."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Harvey Reiter has built a wide-ranging regulatory practice spanning the natural gas and electric utility industries. He regularly appears before FERC appellate courts representing end-users, utilities, marketers and natural gas distributors and cogenerators. He served as lead counsel for a municipally owned electric utility in a dispute with the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) over its compliance with FERC orders. Adrienne Clair is a rising star in the firm’s energy group. She focuses on matters before the FERC involving municipal and cooperative utilities and transmission customers. She recently represented the Arkansas Public Service Commission in support of the withdrawal of Entergy Arkansas from the Entergy System Agreement. "She is a great diplomat – assertive but never offensive.”

THE FIRM Sullivan & Cromwell is a dominant force in the energy world at large. It utilizes its national expertise in corporate transactions to assist industry clients with complex M&A, securities and energy trading work. It regularly represents regulated utilities, marketers and financial institutions, and often serves as underwriters' counsel on major offerings. For example, it represented the underwriters in the SEC-registered $130 million offering of secured mortgage bonds by Idaho Power. In line with recent market developments, the firm is increasingly called upon to handle restructuring work for energy industry players. The firm also has a first-rate mining and metals transactional practice. Led in large part by Sergio Galvis, the group engages in high-end M&A, capital markets and project development work for clients such as Rio Tinto. Most recently, it represented Bucyrus International in its $1.3 billion acquisition of the mining business of Terex.

Sources say: "The lawyers do not make comments just for the sake of argument – they're very practical in that sense and that's appreciated when dealing with complex negotiations."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Joseph Frumkin moves up the rankings this year following positive market feedback: "He’s one of the firm’s very best M&A lawyers – I would hire Joe Frumkin in a heartbeat." He brings to the table decades of experience of working on complex transactions in the regulated utility arena. He recently represented the independent director committee of Dynegy in its $1.746 billion sale to LS Power Group of five peaking and three combined-cycle generation assets. Tia Barancik’s practice bridges both transactional and regulatory work for power industry clients. She has experience in advising clients on complex M&A, investment and credit transactions, and uses her regulatory background to support this work. "She's smart and capable,” say sources.

THE FIRM The energy group at Sutherland Asbill & Brennan is recognized for its expertise in power and oil and gas regulation. It has particular strength in energy trading work, representing clients within the trading sector before the CFTC in compliance and enforcement investigations. It also offers regulatory support for commodities trading and derivatives transactions. In addition to trading work, the firm is well versed in FERC-related matters such as interconnection, cogeneration, market design, and compliance and enforcement, as well as FERC and NERC standards. On the power side, the group���s client base comprises ISOs and other market participants. With regards to oil and gas, the firm is involved in crude oil, natural gas and LNG-related matters for major industry clients.

Sources say: "I would recommended the firm to anybody in the energy sector, and have."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Keith McCrea advises energy clients before the FERC on regulatory compliance and enforcement issues. His expertise also covers FERC and NERC reliability, interconnection and transactional support. Clients appreciate that he is "always ready to respond because he actively thinks through each step and maps out the different outcomes." He recently represented a trading company in FERC and CFTC investigations related to power and swaps trades. Catherine Krupka moves into the electricity regulatory bands this year after receiving substantial praise from peers and clients: "She really knows her stuff – her depth of knowledge is quite impressive." Sources also report that Krupka "works well in a team atmosphere and gets to the root of issues quickly." She advises commodities trading companies on compliance and enforcement, agency regulation and business transaction issues.

Daniel Frank joins the rankings this year based on positive feedback from the market. Sources say he is "very knowledgeable, able to communicate well, and sensitive to client needs." He predominantly focuses on NERC issues, and recently advised an independent generator and generation and transmission cooperative on NERC cyber security requirements.

THE FIRM Thompson & Knight is a superb oil-patch firm with operations throughout Texas. It has expertise across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors, advising on M&A, securities, structured financing and private equity investment. Its strong transactional practice represents publicly traded energy companies and a variety of oil and gas exploration, production, refining, pipeline, marketing and investment companies. The firm recently represented Mitsui & Co, through its subsidiary Mitsui E&P USA, in a $1.4 billion deal with Anadarko Petroleum to jointly explore for and develop natural gas in the Marcellus Shale. It also assisted M2 Midstream LLC in the sale of two natural gas gathering and treating systems to Enterprise Products Partners for $1.2 billion.

Sources say: "I get what I need, when I need it."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Derman is Thompson & Knight's international energy practice group leader. In this role, he acts for domestic and international oil companies and independents in connection with major upstream work. Recently, he has represented Brazilian startup Barra Energia Petróleo e Gás in its $500 million funding by US private equity group First Reserve. Clients describe Derman as "an extremely safe pair of hands." John Rain is a transactional attorney who focuses primarily on structured finance, and who has carved out a niche in volumetric production payments. He was actively involved in the firm’s representation of Mitsui E&P USA. "He's an attorney who really understands the industry – he can look ahead and assess from a business point of view," say sources.

THE FIRM The utility law practice group at Thompson Coburn is wholly dedicated to the representation of publicly owned electric systems. The firm advises clients such as American Municipal Power, Lafayette Utilities System and the Louisiana Energy and Power Authority on a wide array of market matters, including transmission of electric power, determination of rates, and NERC compliance and enforcement procedures. The three-partner team is also highly skilled in evaluating and negotiating agreements related to power transactions and interconnection arrangements.

Sources say: "It's a very high-quality firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Bonnie Blair is widely recognized for her representation of municipalities and cooperatives before federal and state commissions, and has extensive experience in wholesale ratemaking, compliance and reliability issues. "Blair is an incredible person– she is so collegial and even-tempered, and that really sets her apart," say sources. She recently represented the City of Pasadena in negotiating and drafting a long-term interconnection agreement with the Southern California Edison Company. Gary Newell is lauded by clients, who say: "He can recite FERC dockets off the top of his head and is an excellent wordsmith – his FERC filings are exceptional." In addition to market and transmission issues, he handles the negotiation, drafting and enforcement of contracts for the joint ownership of electric generation facilities. Over the past year, he has continued his representation of a client group in administrative hearings.

THE FIRM Troutman Sanders' electricity regulation practice is highlighted for its representation of vertically integrated utilities as well as IPPs and other market players. The group’s attorneys are skilled in an array of FERC-related matters, including transmission and interconnection, and reliability standards. They also offer support to projects and other transactional matters. The firm is also very active in the natural gas pipeline industry, and handles traditional FERC work for clients such as PNM Resources and Iroquois Gas Transmission. Furthermore, the firm enjoys a presence in the nuclear regulatory space, where its work is predominantly led by Art Domby.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Lisanne Crowley acts in regulatory matters for natural gas pipeline and storage companies, distribution companies and generation owners. She has represented clients in a wide range of administrative hearings, including ratemaking, complaints and enforcement. Interviewees say she "combines the right touch with great legal skills." Clifford Sikora provides day-to-day FERC counseling to utilities, IPPs, marketers and transmission companies. This "simply excellent attorney" has considerable experience in dealing with enforcement and reliability issues. Prior to joining the firm, Daniel Larcamp served as senior legal and policy adviser to the chairman of the FERC, and now brings "valuable knowledge of the inner workings of the FERC" to his clients. Arthur Domby is a new entrant to the table and has years of experience in the nuclear industry. He frequently represents clients such as Southern Company in licensing proceedings, investigations and enforcement actions before the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

THE FIRM Elite boutique Van Ness Feldman is at the forefront of US energy regulation and policy. With strong ties to Capitol Hill, the firm is well placed to offer clients legislative and policy advice, although its electricity group also has expertise in administrative and appellate litigation, compliance and enforcement, transmission issues and project development. In recent years, it has become deeply involved in the renewables and alternative energy field, and serves as regulatory counsel on major renewables projects. The firm's prominence in the power field is complemented by its expertise in oil and gas regulation. Its clients include natural gas pipelines and storage facilities, for which the regulatory group handles government relations and legislative issues, as well as FERC proceedings, rate cases, compliance standards and enforcement investigations. It also assists with the regulatory aspects of pipeline and LNG facility construction and the development of projects.

Client Service "We find Van Ness Feldman outstanding at figuring out clients' interests and fostering longstanding relationships."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Margaret Moore is one of the firm’s leading power regulation lawyers. She acts for a variety of clients, including independent generators and power marketers, providing regulatory support for project development and acquisitions and divestitures. She is described as "a meticulous attorney with sound insights." In the past year, she has largely been involved in transmission infrastructure development for a number of high-profile transmission companies. Douglas Smith is involved in FERC-related work for electric utilities and other industry clients. As a former FERC general counsel, he is "politically astute" and has vast experience in all aspects of regulation, including rate proceedings, complaints audits investigations, compliance and rulemakings. He also has significant expertise in climate change, energy technology and renewable policy. "Smith is distinguished by his thorough, practical judgment," say sources.

Robert Nordhaus is praised as "one of the quickest legal minds in the business." In his electricity regulatory practice, Nordhaus represents electric utilities, IPPs, end-users, and state and local governments before the Commission. He is also well regarded for his legislative and policy work. Howard Shapiro is a well-reputed litigator who focuses on the intersection between antitrust law and economic regulation. He has decades of trial experience, and his "special skills in appellate litigation" are consistently noted by clients. Most recently, he represented the Resale Power Group of Iowa in administrative and state court litigation stemming from claims concerning the integration of municipal and investor-owned transmission systems.

In recent years, Gary Bachman has placed an emphasis on FERC and NERC legislation and reliability-related matters. This knowledgeable lawyer offers advice on audit preparation and follow-up, compliance documentation, investigations and appeals to the commissions of alleged compliance violations. His key clients include the Midwest Reliability Organization. Clients enjoy working with Bachman: "He's funny and engaging, and always keeps the atmosphere light." John Buchovecky provides both regulatory and transactional advice to a multitude of clients, including developers, financial institutions and private equity investors. He is active in domestic and international project development work, particularly for power and renewables clients. He recently advised a consortium of major coal and electric utility companies on the development of the FutureGen Carbon Capture and Sequestration project.

Curtis Moffatt is an eminent attorney in the natural gas arena. "A southern gentleman through and through," he is considered indispensable for his transactional and regulatory advice pertaining to the construction of pipelines. Clients appreciate that he "has a good ear to the ground for what is happening on Capitol Hill." He has worked on both on and offshore pipelines of late, advising TransCanada on its Alaskan pipeline and Boardwalk Pipelines on its new pipeline transporting natural gas between Texas and Alabama. Paul Korman is a pipeline lawyer with a broad skill set. Clients appreciate his "dead-on, practical advice," and agree that he is "the kind of guy you go to when you have some ugly FERC litigation on your hands." He advises Dominion Point LNG on several projects on an ongoing basis, and acts for the Texas Pipeline Association in proceedings at the FERC.

The firm recently scored a notable success in picking up a couple of leading individuals from Dewey & LeBoeuf: Lawrence Acker and Brian O'Neill. Acker is a leading attorney in energy regulation, covering both the power and oil and gas industries. He has substantial capabilities in complex FERC litigation, centralized energy markets, wholesale power sales, and generation issues and reliability matters. He is commended for his “good sense of perspective and understanding of client concerns.” Described as a “consummate professional,” O'Neill has a longstanding presence in the oil and gas industry, and has represented LNG companies, interstate pipelines and other oil and gas entities in regulatory matters before the FERC, the DOE, and federal courts. Peers enjoy working with O’Neill, claiming that he “manages to bring a sense of humor to bear on difficult situations.”

THE FIRM Vinson & Elkins is a multifaceted energy firm skilled in regulatory, litigation and transactional work. With historical roots in Texas, its main strength naturally lies in the oil and gas arena. Its highly respected oil pipeline and natural gas pipeline regulatory practices cover the full range of FERC-related issues. Its attorneys regularly appear before state and federal commissions as well as appellate courts. The transactional team, located in both New York and Texas, advises major oil and gas companies, private equity funds and financial institutions on all aspects of the business, including upstream, midstream and downstream work. It is a market leader in MLPs and is home to several of the nation’s experts in that arena. With regards to power, the firm again has both regulatory and transactional capabilities. In addition to the traditional FERC practice, it represents utilities, power developers, private equity funds and financial institutions in M&A, financing and investment work. Most recently, it acted for BG North America in connection with the sale of all of its US power generation facilities to Energy Capital Markets.

Sources say: "It is awesome in oil and gas, truly awesome."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Fantastic transactional lawyer Marcia Backus currently chairs the corporate department at Vinson & Elkins. She works across the entire energy sector, advising clients on domestic and international M&A, joint venture formation, private equity investments and project development. Most recently, she represented Reliance Industries in a joint venture with Atlas Energy for the development of 300,000 acres in the Marcellus Shale. Douglas Bland's strong oil and gas transactions practice spans the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors. Over the years, he has advised numerous industry clients on major M&A. He worked alongside Backus on the firm’s representation of Reliance Industries, and also acted for Shell in connection with its acquisition of East Resources. According to market commentators, he is a "dynamic lawyer who shows a real understanding of the issues." Managing partner Joseph Dilg is a well-respected and prominent figure in the oil and gas world. He lends his vast experience of domestic and international transactions to the group, offering advice on acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and financings. At the forefront of MLP work, Michael Rosenwasser is credited with pioneering the structure, and is commended as "the MLP king." He is also recognized for his M&A and securities work, and most recently served as co-counsel to the audit committee of the general partner of Buckeye Partners in its acquisition of Buckeye GP Holdings.

Alan Baden’s practice involves corporate finance, private equity and M&A work for oil and gas clients. In particular, he focuses on public and private companies engaged in exploration and production, and the service and pipeline sectors of the industry. He is prized as a lawyer who "can take his understanding of the law and turn it into real-world decision making." Keith Fullenweider "not only has a real command of the law, but brings great judgment to its application too." He focuses largely on oil and gas E&P, as well as transportation and midstream work, but also has experience in conventional and alternative power work. Recently this has included acting for Allegheny Energy on the sale of its electric distribution operations in Virginia to Rappahannock Electric Cooperative and Shenandoah Valley Electric. David Cohen has impressed clients with his ability to "quickly zero in on the issues that really matter." He has a diverse corporate practice that crosses oil and gas and power work, and he regularly acts on M&A and joint ventures for clients such as Complete Energy Holdings, Regency Energy Partners and Pioneer Natural Resources. He recently negotiated a joint venture agreement for Pioneer Natural Resources with a wholly owned subsidiary of Reliance Industries.

John Connally enters the table having earned strong market endorsement: "Connally focuses on the right issues and gets deals done." An M&A and investment lawyer, his practice extends across the power and oil and gas industries, and predominantly focuses on the representation of public companies, including MLPs. In the past year, he has worked on Devon Energy���s asset sale and the joint venture between Pioneer Natural Resources and Reliance Industries. Henry May heads up the regulatory practice group at V&E. A longtime expert in the natural gas field, he has extensive experience in all manner of FERC-related work, including rate and certificate proceedings. He has also been intimately involved in the development of energy policy initiatives. FERC specialist David Andril also focuses on the natural gas industry. He represents producers and pipelines before the Commission in rate and certificate proceedings, and offers guidance to clients on policy matters. Furthermore, Andril has significant expertise in LNG-related matters, working on permitting and siting as well as project development. Anita Wilson is extremely well respected in the market, and is considered a "calm and stable influence on any negotiation." She appears before the FERC for a variety of clients, including natural gas pipelines, transportation customers, importers, producers and local distribution companies. Wilson also has experience on the transactional side, representing energy clients in M&A activities.

John Kennedy and Charles Caldwell are key figures in the firm’s oil pipeline regulatory practice. Kennedy is an accomplished litigator with years of experience in representing clients before the Commission and in appellate courts. Similarly, Caldwell appears before the FERC in an array of regulatory matters, and also advises on transactions in all phases of energy development and transportation, on both a domestic and international basis. Of counsel Bert Tabor also has vast experience in oil pipeline regulation. He moves to the senior statesman category this year following many years of top-quality work in the field. John Decker is an energy generalist with capabilities in both power and natural gas. As a transactional FERC expert, he advises on the regulatory aspects of sales, acquisitions and project development, and is highlighted by sources as an "astute, creative and deal-oriented attorney." Stephen Angle is the firm’s leading electric regulation attorney. He handles a variety of matters, including transmission issues, rate cases, FERC and NERC-related compliance, and enforcement investigations. Key clients include Allegheny and Hydro-Québec.

THE FIRM White & Case demonstrates excellence across the energy industry, most particularly in the power sector. With offices spread across the globe, it has extensive resources to support complex transactions and regulation. In New York, the firm is home to a talented transactional group that deals with a broad range of work. The team has extensive expertise in M&A, securities and financing matters. In Washington, DC, a compact regulatory team offers support to these transactions. The team also regularly appears before the FERC in connection with compliance issues, rate cases and market manipulation matters. It represents industry clients such as investor-owned utilities, merchant generators, transmission owners and project developers.

Sources say: "White & Case has sufficient resources to meet any and all energy law-related needs."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Earle O'Donnell heads up the firm’s energy markets and regulatory practice. He is a "real fixture in the energy Bar," and has extensive experience in counseling, litigation and transactions. He focuses mainly on the power industry, acting for electric utilities, IPPs and power consumers. Most recently, he served as regulatory counsel to Constellation Energy in connection with its acquisition of two 550 MW natural gas-fired facilities and related interconnection facilities. Donna Attanasio is praised for her "steady hand in negotiations and accurate analysis of the most unique situations." She advises utilities and renewables developers on FERC-related matters and project development, and recently acted for Essent on compliance issues related to its potential acquisition of additional interests in a power generation asset in the Netherlands.

First year partner Daniel Hagan joins the up-and-coming band this year. Working alongside O’Donnell and Attanasio, he represents clients before the FERC and state regulatory agencies. According to sources, he has a "really good grasp of the litigation side of the practice." Michael Shenberg undertakes M&A and acquisition and divestiture work for a variety of power companies.. He recently represented Calpine in connection with its $1.6 billion purchase of 4,490 MW of power generation assets from Pepco Holdings. He also has strength in capital markets and financing work, and is described by clients as "a thoughtful lawyer who really focuses on doing what is right for the client rather than just making a show of negotiations."

THE FIRM The electric regulation group at Winston & Strawn is famed for its representation of many industry players, including investor-owned utilities, merchant generators and energy developers. The firm offers strategic advice and works on traditional regulatory matters before the FERC and state agencies. With offices in Washington, DC and across California, it has expertise in the formation and development of ISOs and RTOs, particularly in relation to market power issues and compliance. The firm also has notable capabilities in the area of nuclear regulation and litigation. Under David Repka, it handles all aspects of Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing and compliance, investigations and enforcement matters, regulation of nuclear matters, and other industry-related issues. Currently, it is engaged in new plant licensing for several major clients.

Sources say: "A strong firm that has a lot of different areas of expertise. That's helpful to us."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Donald Dankner is identified as the leading figure in Winston & Strawn’s electricity regulatory practice. He has many years of experience representing utilities and IPPs before the FERC and state agencies, and has an "excellent depth of knowledge in the industry," according to sources. Over the past year, he has provided day-to-day FERC counseling to subsidiaries of NiSource and also advised Westar Energy on FERC and NERC compliance, and on the implementation of generation formula rate agreements. David Repka is a first-class nuclear regulatory attorney: "As far as Nuclear Regulatory Commission administrative hearings go, Repka is number one!" He represents businesses, utilities and trade groups in all aspects of Nuclear Regulatory Commission work, including compliance, licensing and enforcement. Further described as "a great strategist and a very effective writer," Repka recently assisted UniStar Nuclear Energy and Detroit Edison in connection with four separate Nuclear Regulatory Commission applications for combined operating licenses for five new nuclear power units. He also continues to represent the Nuclear Energy Institute in connection the Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing proceedings for the proposed waste repository at Yucca Mountain. Raymond Wuslich provides counseling on transactional and regulatory matters as well as regulatory litigation. Working alongside Dankner, he has experience of acting for traditional utilities, merchant and renewable generators, independent transmission companies, private equity investors and trade associations. He assisted Dankner in representing NiSource, and is particularly noted for his “sound judgment and utmost professionalism.”

THE FIRM This energy boutique specializes in electricity and natural gas pipeline regulation, and has an impressive FERC practice. It is widely known for its representation of regional transmission organizations and independent system operators, and has close relationships with the PJM and Southwest Power Pool. The firm is also heavily involved in the planning and development of independent transmission companies and generation companies. In the oil and gas arena, it maintains a successful regulatory practice representing natural gas pipelines and, increasingly, oil pipelines. The Washington, DC-based team handles all aspects of federal regulation, including tariff construction, rate cases, compliance and enforcement, and acts on administrative and appellate litigation. Its clients include major natural gas and oil pipelines, distribution companies, storage companies, producers and marketers.

Commercial Awareness "The firm is really aware of the circumstances of the economy in considering its rates and its provision of services. It's great value for money."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Barry Spector is at the forefront of the firm’s regulatory work for regional transmission organizations and independent system operators. For decades, he has assisted clients such as PJM and Southwest Power Pool with the workings of their energy and transmission markets. For example, he recently advised on and prosecuted before the FERC a comprehensive redesign of the transmission planning and cost allocation rules and procedures on behalf of Southwest Power Pool. He is prized for his "strong understanding of complex electricity markets and the way in which the actual systems work." Wendy Reed continues to act as lead regulatory counsel to the Midwest ISO transmission owners. She represents the group in all FERC-related matters and advises on complex cost allocation and rate design issues. She moves up the rankings this year thanks to her "well-directed guidance and excellent understanding of regulatory policy."

Arnold Podgorsky advises clients on project development and litigates disputes arising from energy contracts. He is lauded for his "ability to facilitate the evolution of the contract, and ability to keep the organization informed on legislative and regulatory developments." He serves as lead counsel to WSPP, and recently successfully submitted new energy products specifications to FERC for approval on behalf of the organization. Alan Statman is praised as a "heavy hitter who adds weight to pleadings." He focuses on transmission rate cases, cost allocation cases and the structuring of energy transactions for independent transmission companies, investors and other industry clients. An "experienced litigator with great instincts," he counts Ameren and Continental Energy among his key clients.

Up-and-comer Wendy Warren specializes in representing vertically integrated electric utilities, independent generators and investors in transmission infrastructure. Over the past year, she has been engaged in work for Ameren, specifically relating to incentive rate treatments for major new transmission infrastructure to be built over the next decade. According to sources, she "has superb writing skills and interfaces well with internal clients." On the oil and gas side, Joseph Koury has developed a broad practice representing pipelines, shippers, marketers and landowners. Of late he has primarily concentrated on natural gas rate, certificate and compliance matters, and oil pipeline rate litigation. He is currently representing Anadarko in new phases of the TAPS rate litigation that commenced in 2009/2010. He has a reputation as a "practical and detail-oriented attorney." Michael Thompson is a regulatory attorney with a focus on natural gas pipeline rate issues and compliance matters. He is described as a "technically sound attorney who is excellent to work with." Recently, he has represented Kern River Gas Transmission in its ongoing general rate change proceeding.