Environment: Mississippi

THE FIRM Brunini Grantham sits at the forefront of the environment market in Mississippi. Its team of experienced practitioners frequently represents clients in litigation and regulatory matters before the EPA and DOJ. Its expertise spans air, water and hazardous waste issues. The group is also known for its lobbying capabilities. Over the past year, the firm has been increasingly involved in municipal water waste matters.

Sources say: “This is the strongest environmental firm in Mississippi."  "Widely respected, effective and responsive."

KEY INDIVIDUALS John Milner is regarded as "one of the preeminent environmental lawyers in private practice in Mississippi." In addition to his depth of knowledge on a wide variety of subspecialties, clients particularly appreciate his strong contacts throughout the industry and in government. Key clients include Chevron Products Company, Eka Nobel and Tyson Foods.

According to market commentators, John Brunini "sees the big picture and develops a team that can implement strategy on a detailed level." He has a broad environmental law practice, advising clients on matters such as air and water permitting and compliance, solid waste planning, and property development issues.

THE FIRM Butler Snow boasts a leading practice covering a wide variety of environmental issues. Spread across the state, the talented team has built up a diverse client base featuring the likes of the City of Meridian, Clayton County Water Authority and Waggoner Engineering. The team has seen an increased focus on Regulatory Impairment of Property Rights Act (RIPRA) enforcement and brownfield redevelopment work of late. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Caples is an expert in environmental permitting and compliance for both public sector and private clients. Sources cite his background as an engineer as a major strength.

James I Palmer Jr is a new addition to the rankings this year following extensive feedback from market commentators. Sources say: “He has an excellent reputation for environmental work and certainly has the credentials to back up that reputation.” Palmer has an active water practice.

Trudy Allen recently joined the firm, bringing with her significant capabilities in the field. She has been increasingly active in advising both communities and developers on land use planning.

THE FIRM Balch & Bingham is one of the key players in environmental regulation in the state of Mississippi. The team represents clients such as Mississippi Power Company and Mississippi State Port Authority in all manner of matters including solid waste and air permitting issues. Comprised of former regulators, the team is well equipped to appear before state agencies.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Teri Wyly is best known throughout the state for her expertise in wetlands permitting matters. She is considered “a very competent lawyer with a real ability to get down to the core issues of a problem.”

THE FIRM This boutique firm has a distinct specialty in the field of environmental compliance and permitting as well as in environmental litigation. The firm has an increasing reputation throughout the state, and frequently acts for numerous public bodies in landfill permitting matters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Virginia Munford is known as “a leader in the Bar on environmental practice.” She has cultivated an impressive reputation for handling both administrative issues as well as litigation and appellate work. Sources say: “She brings a wealth of experience to the table.”

Trial lawyer John Corlew is highly regarded for his litigation abilities. According to interviewees, he is “very well connected and a great source of practical advice.”

THE FIRM Baker Donelson joins the rankings this year having received substantial praise from the market. The firm is home to a team of experienced environmental experts who represent clients before the EPA, DEQ and the DOJ in administrative issues.

Sources say: “Baker Donelson lawyers understand the regulations, know the regulators and have the experience to develop a viable solution that all parties can appreciate.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Dawkins's “knowledge of environmental compliance laws and regulations is incredibly strong,” say sources. He is also praised for his thorough preparation and client care. His practice encompasses environmental permitting and compliance and government investigations.

Sources say that associate Gretchen Zmitrovich's "background as a former Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality regulator gives her an edge in the technical aspects of environmental issues."