Energy & Natural Resources: Nationwide

THE FIRM Akin Gump's energy practice has continued to win plaudits, particularly for its impressive work in the oil and gas space. It takes a multidisciplinary approach, providing transactional advice to a variety of companies, covering financing, restructuring and tax. The firm recently advised Anadarko in its highly lucrative sale of one-third of its Eagle Ford Shale assets to Korea National Oil. The headline-grabbing deal was one of the largest of its kind in 2011 and is indicative of some of the major work being carried out by this stellar transactional team.

Client Service "The oil and gas team delivers client service beyond all other firms. It is an A-plus firm!"

KEY INDIVIDUAL Christine LaFollette is able to call upon more than three decades' worth of experience representing the energy industry. She is"extremely knowledgeable" in the realm of public offerings and private placements of equity and debt securities, as well as MLPs. 

Since publication, Suedeen Kelly has joined the firm's Washington DC office from Patton Boggs LLP. She brings a fine reputation as an “extremely knowledgeable” energy attorney with "a great sense of what's going on." She is widely known for representing a variety of major companies on the federal and state level.

Also arriving from Patton Boggs, George Cannon bolsters the firm's presence in the regulatory space. He is widely lauded for his representations at state and federal level.

THE FIRM A plethora of energy clients, including electricity utilities and renewable power developers, continue to reap the rewards of Alston & Bird's deep industry expertise. The firm's DC-based regulatory practice has found fame in the transmission and organized power markets, boasting an attorney bench armed with an in-depth knowledge of the most current and pressing policy matters. It has also been active in helping its clients adapt to the altered regulatory landscape in the wake of the Dodd-Frank Act.

Sources say: "They are senior professionals who know the industry and get the job done."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Kenneth Jaffe's status as "a leader" in the regulatory arena remains undisputed. He handles applications for the approval of innovative transmission and market structures, and provides further counsel on interconnection and transmission rate issues. He continues to represent some of the biggest energy entities before FERC, including FirstEnergy and National Grid.

Sean Atkins is another "impressive lawyer" within Alston & Bird's ranks. His diverse regulatory practice serves the electric utility industry in complex federal and state matters. The DC-based attorney has maintained a long relationship with the California ISO Corporation, helping it to evaluate and respond to FERC rules concerning transmission planning.

THE FIRM This firm has been a prominent member of the energy industry for over three decades, having carved out a particularly strong reputation in the oil and gas arena. It provides expert regulatory counsel from its Washington, DC office, handling rate cases, compliance, enforcement and other issues. The firm's Texas offices house talented transactional teams, which advise a range of oil and gas companies on M&A, securities and other corporate matters. The firm recently assisted El Paso Pipeline Partners with several of its public common share offerings. In addition to its oil and gas expertise, the firm also possesses highly respected regulatory capabilities on the electric power side, acting on behalf of independent system operators, transmission owners and generators before FERC.

Sources say: "Practical and business-oriented - the best energy firm I have worked with!"

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mark Sundback's "wealth of experience" representing interstate pipelines in rate cases before FERC, along with his "pleasant demeanor," has secured his status as a popular and respected energy litigator. He has garnered particular praise for his persuasive advocacy skills. The experienced litigator continues to represent Bison Pipeline in relation to the certification and construction of a new greenfield interstate pipeline.

Kenneth Wiseman's regulatory expertise covers both the electricity and oil and gas industries. He advises electrical entities on the rules, terms and conditions of service and settlement procedures issued by regional transmission organizations, including ISO-NE and NIYSO. On the natural gas side, he continues his representation of interstate pipelines, providing counsel on compliance and other important issues. He is also a respected litigator, acting on behalf of both natural gas and electric power companies before FERC. Sources commend his ability to bring a "sober second thought" to the table.

Corporate lawyer Michael O'Leary is known throughout the oil and gas industry as a "prolific deal-maker." He is widely regarded as "one of the top capital markets attorneys" and is able to offer additional expertise on MLPs, energy and oilfield services, and other pipeline company transactions. He is currently representing Lime Rock Resources in connection with LRR Energy's $200 million IPO. Clients are particularly impressed with his "calm and cool" demeanor.

Thomas Bateman has been praised for providing invaluable transactional advice as it relates to the exploration, production and marketing of natural gas. One client was particularly glowing in their appraisal: "He has the ability to explain complicated energy-related structures and issues to those who are not experienced in the field, doing so in a way that is easy for the client to understand."

Cheryl Phillips is a talented transactional attorney who has been described by her fellow attorneys as "one to watch." She focuses on the purchase and sale of oil and gas properties, joint ventures and other industry-specific transactions.

THE FIRM There are few who would question Baker Botts's presence as a major force in the oil and gas industry. Producers, refiners, LNG companies, marketers and pipelines continue to seek out the firm for its diverse and seasoned expertise. Spread across its Washington, DC and Houston offices, the firm's dedicated regulatory team has established itself as leader in the field, representing some of the biggest oil and gas companies in complex litigation before FERC. It continues to act on behalf of HollyFrontier, ExxonMobil, BP West Coast Products, and Western Refining in ongoing rate proceedings. The firm is also known for its stellar transactional practice, which has been particularly active on the joint venture front. A recent work highlight includes its representation of Marathon Oil in its $3.5 billion acquisition of Eagle Ford Shale assets from Hilcorp Resources.

Commercial Awareness "They are very alert as to what is going on in the oil and gas world - not just the legal aspects, but also the political dynamics of the whole market."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Thomas Eastment is venerated across the field as a "terrific" FERC attorney. He advises on litigation and regulatory issues in the oil and gas space, representing shippers and pipeline project owners. He is currently representing BP West Coast Products before FERC in its challenge of pipeline rates affecting the transportation of refined petroleum products. Eastment has built a strong reputation as an "excellent technical lawyer." To quote one peer: “You had better have your A-game ready when you go up against him!”

New arrival Elaine Walsh is a multiskilled energy attorney with extensive experience in both transactional and regulatory spheres. She possesses an "incredible amount of knowledge of derivatives" and is also known for her “excellent legal analysis" and ability to “think on her feet.”

Joshua Davidson plays a pivotal role in the firm’s MLP work. He recently represented LINN Energy in billions of dollars in MLP offerings. One source said: “He has impeccable judgment and his knowledge of the law is second to none. You never get the impression that he is less than 100% focused on your best interest.”

Hugh Tucker heads up the firm’s oil and gas transactional team. His practice spans downstream, mainstream and upstream work, providing advice on a variety of corporate transactions, including joint ventures, asset acquisitions and divestitures. In the past year, he played a key role in the firm’s representation of Marathon Oil in its $3.5 billion acquisition of the Eagle Ford Shale assets of Hilcorp Resources. The “consummate oil and gas lawyer” has been applauded for producing work of the “highest quality” and for his ability to “get the deal done.”

Brooksany Barrowes heads up Baker Botts’s electricity regulatory practice. She continues to provide “succinct advice” on a plethora of regulatory and litigation matters, including rate cases and contract disputes. The DC-based attorney has been praised for her “good judgment” and “excellent presence in the courtroom.”

Houston-based George Goolsby is an oil and gas transactional attorney with over 36 years of experience. His corporate practice has seen him execute a number of high-profile M&A transactions and he is actively engaged in pipeline project development. In addition to his US work, he has recently been particularly active in overseas transactions.

Newly named partner Hillary Holmes enters the rankings after winning plaudits from major industry clients. She has provided support on some of the firm's largest oil and gas transactions over the past year. Sources paint a picture of a “tremendously hard-working” young attorney, who is able to bring “a fresh approach on each transaction” she works on.

Since publication, both William Lamb and Thomas Moore have joined Baker Botts from Dewey & LeBoeuf. In New York, Lamb is a well-respected transactional lawyer. He advises electricity companies on an array of corporate issues, bringing a "true appreciation of what needs to be done" and helping them to make "quality business decisions." The Houston-based Moore continues as a lauded expert in the oil and gas sector, providing corporate, commercial and financial services to an array of organizations. He is highly respected throughout the US and is increasingly active in energy work abroad.

THE FIRM This eight-member team is a leader on nuclear matters in the American South. The practice takes an innovative approach to representing major industry players on regulatory issues, such as continued diligence and nuclear waste and used fuel management. However, the group is perhaps most frequently noted for its work on plant licensing. In the past year, the practice continued its longstanding relationship with the Southern Nuclear Operating Company, which runs energy facilities in several states in the deep South. 

Sources say: "An excellent, niche energy firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS One client notes that Stanford Blanton is a "great nuclear lawyer, and one of the best counselors I've ever had," a sentiment that many sources echo. He often represents operators and owners of nuclear energy facilities on plant maintenance, development and licensing matters. He has also served as the chair of the ABA's Nuclear Energy Committee.

THE FIRM The firm's well-reputed energy practice remains at the forefront of the industry. It is particularly renowned for its transactional expertise in the oil and gas market, providing corporate and M&A counsel to upstream, midstream and downstream entities. Its talented transactional lawyers recently represented Kinder Morgan in the filing of a $3.3 billion IPO, one of the largest in recent times. The firm has also been making waves on the regulatory and litigation front, most recently after its headline-grabbing victory at FERC on behalf a large group of major gas marketers, which saw the Commission reverse its decision to bring enforcement actions under its buy/sell prohibition.

Commercial Awareness "They brought a lot to the table - creativity, a high level of experience and an unrivaled quality of deal execution."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Alan Rafte continues to be regarded as “one of the best in the field.” The “skilled lawyer” combines his role as head of the firm’s oil and gas transactional practice with his continued representation of some of the industry’s leading companies. He recently acted on behalf of EIG Global Partners in its multimillion purchase of a majority stake in Blackbrush Oil & Gas and TexStar Midstream. Rafte has garnered praise for his “business-oriented” approach and “intimate knowledge of the oil and gas industry.”

Charles Shoneman counts some of the market’s leading oil and gas participants among his clients. The Washington, DC-based lawyer advises on the regulatory nuances of M&A, financings and other corporate transactions. He is “well respected in the FERC arena” and continues to amass praise for his “great client management skills” and “rational and reasonable negotiation style.”

James McAnelly is a “truly experienced” oil and gas lawyer who “has seen it all.” His focus lies in midstream and upstream work, executing a variety of transactions for processing plants, production and storage facilities, and pipeline systems. A former landman, McAnelly is an attorney who “really understands the nitty-gritty of the oil and gas world!”

Mark Lewis is another well-reputed FERC attorney at the firm. He represents a broad spectrum of oil and gas entities, including oil and gas producers and pipeline developers, investors and owners. To quote one client: “He is a problem solver who brings a lot to the table.” DTE Pipelines and Lion Oil have recently reaped the rewards of his expertise.

Sandra Rizzo's star continues to rise in the regulatory and litigation space. Heading up the firm’s energy regulatory group, she advises a multitude of electricity entities on regulatory compliance and enforcement issues. She recently represented Constellation Energy Commodities, Hess, Macquarie Energy and BP Energy in their successful challenge to proposed market rule changes. Rizzo is described as a “strategic thinker” and is praised for her ability to provide “relevant and valuable” advice.

Seattle-based Paul Fox is able to call upon over three decades' worth of experience representing electricity companies in litigated proceedings before FERC. He heads up the regulatory dispute section of the firm’s respected litigation group, adding further strength to Bracewell's talented attorney bench.

Kirstin Gibbs's presence as a strong regulatory attorney has been acknowledged by attorneys and clients alike. She represents participants in the oil and gas market, advising them on compliance, enforcement, rate, policy and litigation matters. She is described as a “problem solver who adds value.”

Deanna King's practice provides regulatory and compliance services to electricity organizations at home and abroad. She is viewed by fellow attorneys as a “top-notch” and “smooth” practitioner in the field. Along with Paul Fox, she continues to represent Powerex in litigation proceedings and investigations before the FERC.

Washington, DC-based Kirk Morgan is a promising up-and-comer in the firm’s energy regulatory group. His broad client base includes petroleum refineries, pipeline developers, and oil and gas producers and marketers. He is praised for his ability to “always stay on top of things” and “get his points across effectively.”

Joining recently from Dewey & LeBoeuf, John Klauberg has garnered high praise among his fellow attorneys and clients. He provides a range of transactional services, including advice on the acquisitions and dispositions of power plants and on leases of generating and transmission facilities. Attorneys praise his "intuitive" sense of market conditions or, putting it another way, his ability to "see around corners." Clients note his dedication, attention to detail and "levelheadedness in a crisis situation."

Catherine McCarthy, also formerly of Dewey, focuses on energy regulatory matters. She advises a variety of electricity entities, with a particular focus on transmission issues including formula rate work. Peers and clients describe her as a "pleasure to work with."

THE FIRM Cadwalader continues to expand its reach in the market, following the 2011 arrival of several partners from McDermott Will & Emery. The energy team has distinguished itself as a leader in regulatory compliance and defense, operating in both the electricity and oil and gas markets. It is also gaining traction in the transactional space, providing counsel on structured finance and M&A in addition to its specialist energy derivatives expertise. The firm continues to advise high-profile companies, including Constellation Energy and American Renewables.

Client Service "A very responsive team with a strong client focus."

Commercial Awareness "They are very knowledgeable and really know how to translate energy law into easy-to-understand advice."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Paul Pantano is particularly renowned for his expertise in commodities and derivatives law. He frequently advises on Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and FERC investigations for various electricity entities. The DC-based attorney also provides advice in relation to regulatory changes introduced by Dodd-Frank. Pantano is widely regarded “the CFTC expert” – indeed, “nobody comes close to his expertise!”

Robert Stephens has won plaudits for his “creative” and “business-savvy” legal advice. He advises energy companies on a wide variety of transactions, including structured financing and acquisition and divestitures. Stephens recently represented Constellation Energy in the negotiation of a natural gas supply facility. One source states: “He is a fierce advocate for his clients. He is incredibly intelligent and always in full mastery of the law and facts.”

Daryl Rice is another talented attorney within Cadwalader’s energy and commodities group. He executes a wide range of energy-related transactions and is currently advising LS Power in relation to the development of a capacity agreement and participation in a generation development solicitation.

Kenneth Irvin continues to provide counsel on the regulatory issues surrounding energy and commodities trading. Recently, he successfully represented Brookfield Energy Marketing in the first market manipulation case under Federal Power Act Section 222 prosecuted by a private party at FERC. One client said: “I can rely on him for advice on any FERC matter.”

Gregory Lawrence is a new addition to the electricity regulatory and litigation table. The multiskilled lawyer is particularly well known for his work in the area of enforcement. He is currently playing a key role in the firm’s representation of DPL in submitting and defending a merger filing at FERC. Clients appreciate his knowledge of “the complex inner workings of FERC.”

THE FIRM Chadbourne has a deep-rooted presence in the electric power industry. Using its project finance strength to great effect, its energy team executes a range of complex corporate transactions, including divestitures, M&A and joint ventures. The firm's industry expertise can also be found in its DC-based regulatory team, which has established a strong reputation at FERC. The firm's multitalented regulatory team is also called upon to negotiate interconnection arrangements, as well as provide multifaceted project counsel.

Sources say: "They have great depth and great bench strength."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Shapiro is regarded as "one of the great minds" working in the energy field. His diverse practice provides a variety of services, encompassing project finance and litigation before FERC. A recent work highlight involved the negotiation and litigation of an interconnection agreement on behalf of Gestamp-North Buffalo.

Charles Hord continues to provide "incredibly solid" corporate and financial advice to the energy industry, covering M&A, joint ventures, lending and more. He recently advised GDF SUEZ in its restructuring and eventual merger with International Power, executing a variety of transactions along the way. Hord is a well-respected force in the market, known for his "friendly manner" and "straightforward counsel."

THE FIRM Cleary Gottlieb is acclaimed for its exemplary financial work, and its energy offering likewise shines on corporate matters. The energy and natural resources division advises clients around the world on many financial and corporate issues, such as M&A and insolvency/restructuring proceedings. The practice has continued to attach its name to some of the mining and metal industries' major transactions. The group recently advised dealer managers in Ivanhoe Mines' rights offering valued at $1.18 billion. It has also been active in oil and gas, and has advised industry giants on a variety of matters. In the past year, the group represented GDF SUEZ on its operations in Chile and Peru. 

Sources say: "The team as a whole is of a consistently high quality, from associate to partner. You can't find that elsewhere. They are very well coordinated."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Cooper and Chantal Kordula are two key contacts in New York.

THE FIRM Covington & Burling is widely recognized for its outstanding understanding of federal legislative and regulatory issues. The firm is uniquely placed, therefore, to offer a mix of legal expertise and political insight. The regulatory team is active in both oil and gas and electricity, providing compliance and enforcement representation before FERC and CFTC, as well as administrative and transactional support. It boasts an impressive client list, including American Petroleum Institute and ExxonMobil, which continue to benefit from the firm's litigation prowess.

Client Service "They are always willing to help - even beyond the specific elements of their engagement."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Former FERC commissioner William Massey has cemented his place as a well-respected energy regulatory attorney. He continues to apply his “deep knowledge" of energy law and policy to help assist electricity and oil and gas entities. He is described by fellow attorneys as an “excellent strategist.” Clients are equally laudatory, saying: “Bill is terrific at peeling away the complexities of energy regulation.” He continues to advise Clean Energy Fuels on a variety of natural gas policies.

Another “truly extraordinary” attorney at the firm is Robert Fleishman. He has built a strong reputation for his litigation and regulatory work in the oil and gas sphere. Pipelines, local distribution companies and other oil and gas companies all feature on his diverse client list. According to clients, Fleishman not only possesses “unbelievable knowledge of the law,” but also “understands the business aspects” of the energy industry. He is currently working alongside Massey in the firm's representation of Sempra Pipelines & Storage and Sempra LNG, providing ongoing counsel on compliance and enforcement issues.

Richard Meserve will be a name familiar to all who work in the nuclear industry. As former chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the DC-based lawyer advises on high-level policy issues affecting the market. In the words of one fellow attorney, “he’s a terrific lawyer and a nice guy.”

THE FIRM The firm is a colossus on the New York scene, and is nationally lauded for its corporate work. Similarly, the energy group predominantly advises clients on M&A and capital markets transactions. The practice frequently represents a variety of energy utilities and producers, most often in the oil and gas sector, as well as underwriters of equity and debt offerings. Recently, the energy team acted for SEMCO Energy on a joint venture with MidAmerica Energy Holdings, thereby forming a company to operate an Alaska-based natural gas storage utility. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Hall in New York is one of the firm's primary energy contacts.

THE FIRM Debevoise & Plimpton is recognized as a market leader in corporate mining and metal work, handling a variety of transactions, including national and international M&A, joint venture and securities transactions. Capitalizing on its noteworthy private investment fund expertise, the firm has established a significant presence in the power sector, assisting utilities, IPPs and other entities on a variety of corporate transactions. It is also active in the alternative energy arena, providing expert counsel to companies operating in the wind power and hydroelectric industries. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "extremely well thought-of" Sarah Fitts serves as cochair of the firm’s energy and natural resources group. She advises electricity and oil and gas companies on M&A, restructurings, joint ventures and other multiparty governance arrangements. Clients are quick to highlight her service skills, describing how "she never lets any issue fall through the cracks!"

THE FIRM SNR Denton is best known for its work in the electricity market. The team contends with a variety of regulatory matters, including electricity generation, distribution, transmission and compliance. The practice represents municipal utilities, public cooperatives and private investment-funded electricity corporations. The group has recently represented clients that are as impressive as they are diverse, including the New York Municipal Power Agency, Navopache Electric Cooperative and GE Energy Financial Services.

Sources say: "When we hit upon an issue, they do not take long to provide quality advice. Their bench strength has stepped up tremendously."

KEY INDIVIDUAL Stuart Caplan has firmly established himself as a go-to name in the market and is hailed by sources as a "technically brilliant attorney." Although he is adept at handling corporate deals, he is perhaps best known for his regulatory work. Recent highlights include representing Texas-based Rayburn County Electric Cooperative in its acquisition of a major stake in a generating station.

Clinton Vince is a seasoned attorney with over 30 years' experience and is the chair of the firm's energy regulation group. He has recently attached his name to many of the practice's larger and more complex matters. One peer says: "I have nothing but the highest regard for him."

THE FIRM From its offices in Washington, DC and New York, Dickstein Shapiro’s energy practice has established itself as a trusted provider of comprehensive legal services to the energy industry. Its commercially savvy and vastly experienced regulatory team is a well-known presence at FERC, representing IPPs and other power organizations in cases involving compliance, enforcement, transmission and reliability issues. It has also garnered praise for its recent work in the alternative energy arena, evidenced by its current high-profile representation of wind energy power plant developer Cedar Creek. The regulatory team is increasingly active in the oil and gas sphere, providing counsel to pipelines and those working in the LNG market. The energy industry is further catered for by the firm’s transactional practice, which advises investor-owned utilities and other energy entities on a variety of corporate matters.

Sources say: "They look at things from our point of view and provide solutions.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Larry Eisenstat is well known throughout the industry for his “sophisticated understanding” of both the legal and business issues facing energy companies. He is described as being “well versed in FERC transmission issues, including policy, FERC compliance and other regulatory processes.” Recent highlights include his ongoing representation of Cedar Creek as it seeks to overturn a decision made by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, which threatens to halt the company’s power project development.

Mark Perlis's broad regulatory and litigation practice has garnered praise for its representation of electricity utilities. He is a well-respected attorney at FERC, having established a reputation as a “great settlement lawyer.” In the past year, he has successfully represented the Independent Energy Producers Association (IEP) in various matters before FERC.

Richard Lehfeldt is a respected energy attorney, whose practice spans litigation, regulatory and transactional work. He is applauded for his “strategic counsel” and for his steadfast drive to “protect his client’s best interests.” He is currently providing regulatory counsel to the City of Boulder as it seeks to municipalize and create the first utility to supply only renewable power and thereby satisfy the Kyoto Protocol.

The “extremely talented and knowledgeable” Frederick Lowther continues to provide regulatory counsel to LNG companies. He also provides litigation and transactional services to the industry, acting as project counsel to Jordan Cove LNG. The “very responsive” attorney has been praised further for bringing "a strong business sense” to the table.

Since publication, Mark Perlis has joined Davis Wright Tremaine LLP

THE FIRM This internationally renowned firm has certainly made an impact in the US oil and gas sector. It is particularly active in the corporate sphere, executing M&A, divestitures, investment and other transactional work on behalf of companies operating in the upstream, mainstream and downstream phases of production. The firm benefits from the recent arrival of Kevin Lipson, Lee Alexander, John Lilyestrom and Stefan Krantz from Hogan Lovells, a move which will deepen the firm’s regulatory expertise and strengthen DLA Piper’s overall capabilities in the energy market.

KEY INDIVIDUAL Jack Langlois is at the forefront of the firm's oil and gas transactional practice. His first-rate execution of M&A, joint venture and investment work for a variety of high-profile companies has helped secure his status as an “an all-around transactional superstar,” as one source states. He is also applauded for his industry expertise, having been described as “a true oil and gas lawyer.”

The "highly regarded" Lee Alexander represents oil and gas companies in various proceedings before FERC and other authorities. Described as “knowing the regulatory lay of the land,” he has established “a devoted client following” during his impressive career. 

THE FIRM The firm’s Texas-based energy industry team is well respected in the oil and gas world, assisting companies active in downstream, midstream and upstream work. It is able to offer a veritable menu of transactional services, including M&A, joint venture and infrastructure development counsel. In addition to its representation of major companies, the firm is also well known for helping newly formed corporations, like Sidewinder Drilling, gain a foothold in the oil and gas market.

Client Service “They are always very responsive - day or night!"

KEY INDIVIDUALS Larry Stevens provides advice to private and pubic energy oil and gas companies in M&A and all forms of debt and equity financings. He also advises publicly held companies on corporate governance issues. A recent work highlight was his multifaceted representation of Sidewinder Drilling in relation to its approximately $150 million capital raise. Clients describe him as a “strong communicator with great international skills.”

THE FIRM This firm’s multidisciplinary energy and natural resources group is able to offer legal expertise and industry knowledge in equal measure. The firm’s vastly experienced regulatory team continues to amass praise for its representation of pipelines before FERC on a variety of issues, including tariff construction and rate case recovery. On the transactional front, it provides expert counsel on acquisitions, divestitures, capital market issues and oilfield development.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Atnipp is described as a “good guy and a good lawyer,” who offers oil and gas companies a variety of services, including finance, joint ventures and strategic alliances, and acquisitions and dispositions.

Kenneth Minesinger focuses his practice on energy regulatory proceedings before FERC, with an emphasis on natural gas pipelines. He represents clients on a plethora of matters, including ratemaking, restructuring and licensing proceedings. Minesinger continues to apply his “energetic” approach when assisting high-profile clients like El Paso Natural Gas and the State of Alaska.

Howard Nelson is another prominent regulatory attorney at the firm. He is able to tap into over 25 years' experience representing the oil and gas industry before FERC, where he has built a strong reputation for his work with natural gas pipelines.

THE FIRM The firm continues to offer expert regulatory advice to the entire energy industry. It is ever-present in the oil and gas market, representing Chevron Pipe Line and other leading companies in complex compliance, enforcement and rate proceedings before FERC. The firm’s deep regulatory expertise can be also be found in its representation of the electricity industry before FERC and CFTC on issues ranging from cost allocation and recovery to transmission planning. It is also active in helping major companies like Edison International adjust to the new Dodd-Frank regulations. In the nuclear arena, the firm has secured its place as a leader in the field. Its talented team advises established and emerging nuclear entities, helping them to secure NRC approval, as well as guiding them through NRC design certification and plant licensing. In addition to its national presence, the group is well placed to capitalize on the continuing trend in overseas investment in the US nuclear industry and continues to represent Toshiba, providing it with varied NRC counsel.

Client Service: "They are very responsive and committed to our aims."

Commercial Awareness “They have the right expertise for any issue you can think of!”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Commentators are quick to praise John Stough for his "encyclopedic knowledge" of energy regulatory law. Stough represents electric utilities and lenders on rate approvals, merger approvals, transmission issues and complaint proceedings. Cleco is currently tapping into his expertise on the recovery of the capital and operating project costs under the jurisdiction of FERC.

DC-based Patrick Nevins is another “superb FERC lawyer” at the firm. His impressive client list includes major natural gas pipelines, distributors and shippers. He continues to represent Chevron Pipe Line in relation to its ownership interest in the Trans Alaska Pipeline System in a series of litigated cases before FERC and the Regulatory Commission of Alaska. To quote one client: "He really knows our industry.”

Mary Anne Sullivan is a vastly experienced energy attorney. A former general counsel to the DOE, her current focus lies in the nuclear sector. She is described as "approachable" and has been applauded for her ability to "assemble the right team and resources" to address the problems faced by nuclear companies. Sullivan is currently providing advice to Hyperion Power Generation as it seeks to develop a new nuclear power plant.

Daniel Stenger is known for his "superb" nuclear practice and continues to provide "prompt, effective and practical advice" to electric utilities and others on matters before the NRC, DOE and federal courts. One source said: "He is an in-house general counsel's dream when you need one-stop shopping transactional advice quickly." He is currently acting as regulatory counsel for Toshiba and Toshiba America Nuclear Energy.

Amy Roma's rise within the nuclear regulatory field has been noted by many market sources. The former NRC judicial clerk has attracted praise for her expertise in compliance, licensing and a whole host of other nuclear energy issues. She has been described as an “excellent researcher” and has been praised for her “initiative and quick response time.” Roma works closely with Dan Stenger and Mary Anne Sullivan, helping them to provide ongoing regulatory counsel to Constellation Energy Group.

Ajay Kuntamukkala is an emerging face in the nuclear regulatory arena. He is noted for his specialist knowledge of nuclear export and nonproliferation issues. He continues to work closely with Daniel Stenger on the firm’s representation of Toshiba and Toshiba America Nuclear Energy.

Since publication, a team of three highly rated attorneys has joined the firm from DLA Piper. Kevin Lipson has established a strong presence in the regulatory arena, following his representation of leading oil and gas entities at the FERC and CFTC. Fellow attorneys describe him as a “big personality” and a “pleasure to work with.”

Also joining the team, John Lilyestrom represents electric utility companies, electric marketers and IPPs before FERC and other agencies. His knowledge of electric utility regulation in particular has won him a number of admirers, with one describing him as "an intellectual powerhouse."

Stefan Krantz is the third new arrival. Krantz is well-respected for oil and gas regulatory work and has an extensive client base that includes interstate natural gas pipelines, storage companies, marketers and other industry participants.

THE FIRM This firm’s nationally recognized regulatory expertise touches all areas of the electricity industry, providing counsel on compliance, policy, transmission and other issues. It is known for its representation of public and investor-owned utilities before FERC and NERC, and has recently been active in providing regulatory support for transactions involving renewable energy financing and development. The firm also houses a respected nuclear practice, providing representation before the NRC, as well as counsel on DOE loan guarantees, licensing and enforcement.

Sources say: “They have a great command of both the high-level issues and the down-in-the-weeds details.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Former FERC trial attorney Linda Walsh provides regulatory counsel to the electricity industry. Her practice advises on NERC compliance and reliability issues, as well as those relating to generator sales and transmissions. She has impressed fellow attorneys in proceedings with her "strong control of both the law and the facts" and for her continued representation of high-profile clients.

The "excellent" Donald Irwin has been described as a "go-to guy" for nuclear regulatory issues. His past work includes the representation of utilities on nuclear power plant licensing issues and in ratemaking proceedings before the NRC.

Michael Fitzpatrick is another “strong lawyer” working in the firm’s energy finance team. He provides counsel to issuers and underwriters operating in the energy market. Clients highlight his “great grasp of capital markets transactions."

Peter O'Brien adds further to depth to the firm’s capital markets expertise, acting as underwriters' counsel for major utilities and investments banks. He has recently represented RBS Securities and Credit Suisse Securities in the Rule 144A notes offering by IFM Colonial Pipeline.

Bud Ellis "has a great reputation" as leading finance lawyer, known for providing first-rate corporate counsel to regulated and nonregulated electricity utilities, as well as investment banks. He is particularly well known for his expertise in capital markets transactions.

THE FIRM This international powerhouse is well set to continue its diverse and dynamic representation of the energy industry. It has made particular strides in the electricity arena, with its distinguished corporate attorneys offering a whole raft of transactional services, including advice on M&A, dispositions, joint ventures and restructurings. The transactional group is supported by a respected regulatory team, which provides FERC counsel, as well as administrative, litigation and transactional support for utilities, independents, transmission companies and renewable developers. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS William Henze is renowned for his transactional expertise, helping utilities and other power entities achieve their objectives. AREVA and International Power America are two of the high-profile companies who have benefited from his well-reputed experience and knowledge.

Richard Avil is an experienced member of the energy Bar. He continues to provide regulatory and litigation counsel to the oil and gas industry. His diverse client list includes natural gas pipelines and local distribution companies.

THE FIRM King & Spalding's acclaimed energy regulatory practice continues to garner widespread praise for its work in both the electricity and oil and gas industries. The firm has found particular fame in the IPP arena, representing IPPs and other power companies before FERC in cutting-edge cases involving transmission tariff and market rules, interconnection issues, and enforcement investigations. Its prominent lawyers recently combined forces to provide multifaceted support to LS Power on regulatory matters relating to a number of transactions, including the $381 million acquisition of interests in three power plants. The firm’s strength on the electricity side is mirrored by oil and gas regulatory expertise. Its DC-based team advises on matters including natural gas pipeline rate and certificate issues and offshore and onshore operating regulations. It recently acted as regulatory counsel to SEMCO Energy and BP. The firm also has extensive litigation capabilities and has represented the likes of Chevron and Halliburton in high-stakes litigation. In addition to its regulatory prowess, the firm also houses a well-respected transactional energy practice, adding further depth to this talented team.

Client Service "Very responsive, bringing a strong sense of collaboration."

Commercial Awareness "They do a very good job selecting highly qualified attorneys with the kind of technical background and legal knowledge/experience that we need for our business."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Corporate attorney Crayton Bell is “thoughtful and committed to a high level of service.” He advises the electricity industry on a range of transactions, including M&A, LBOs and joint ventures. He recently represented Gateway Energy Services in its multimillion sale to Direct Energy Services.

Neil Levy's regulatory expertise spans the electricity and oil and gas industries. He has built a strong reputation for his “creative and thoughtful” representation of IPPs, merchant transmission developers, interstate pipelines and other energy entities. "He has a sharp sense of where FERC regulation is going and has a wonderful strength to bring this strength to bear in the context of commercial decision-making.” He is currently representing Tonbridge Power in disputes relating to the development of merchant electric transmission lines in Montana.

David Tewksbury is at the forefront of King & Spalding’s regulatory practice, providing counsel to a variety of entities in the electricity industry. Clients say: "He's got the fighter in him, but not for the sake of it. He is mild-mannered, but tough." In addition to his close collaboration with Neil Levy, he continues to advise EPSA on newly issued FERC rules.

Bruce Richardson is another prominent regulatory attorney, providing counsel on a variety of issues facing electricity entities. Over the past year, the “technically erudite” lawyer has worked closely with his colleagues on the firm’s representation of LS Power.

Charles Engel combines his expertise in energy law and antitrust issues to provide a unique service to high-profile oil and gas companies. He has attracted praise among his peers for his ongoing representation of Chevron in a variety of litigation and regulatory matters relating to the Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Arriving recently from Dewey & LeBoeuf, James Bowe is a leading legal adviser on natural gas storage projects. The respected lawyer wins plaudits for his "diligence" and "grasp of complex details."

THE FIRM This firm's corporate offering has helped secure its status as a force within the energy market. It is particularly renowned for its representation of the electricity industry, executing finance, M&A and restructuring transactions. Kirkland's lawyers recently represented Constellation Energy in its proposed multibillion-dollar merger with Exelon. The transaction was one of the largest announced in 2011 and is a fine example of the firm's headline-grabbing work.

Client Service “I was extremely impressed with the turnaround time of work."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mitch Hertz serves as chair of the firm's energy practice group. He executes a range of transactions, including M&A and restructuring, on behalf of utilities and other power companies. The DC-based lawyer is regarded by peers as an “incredibly knowledgeable attorney” and “very insightful negotiator.” Clients are equally enthusiastic, highlighting his ability to “translate complex law into excellent business advice."

THE FIRM Latham's dynamic energy offering continues to set the standard for excellence on corporate transactions. The bulk of the practice's efforts are dedicated to the power arena, although it has a great deal of expertise advising oil and gas interests as well. The international team recently represented lenders and power utilities acting as borrowers on a number of loan constructions and refinancings, as well as project development financings. Clients, including Barclays, KeyBank, Exelon and Dynegy, and GWF Energy, have sought out this team to advise on such deals. The team is very well known for its financial work and has also built up a solid reputation on regulatory matters. Its regulatory division provides counsel for both equity funds and energy utilities on state and national-level compliance issues, including project development and general diligence. 

Sources say: "I have had great experiences with them; they're able to bring great skills to the table."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jonathan Rod is a leader on financial matters in power and oil and gas. He advises on a range of deals, including project financings and securities trading. He is noted for being "seriously experienced," and for his "thoughtful and careful" approach. In the past year, he has represented clients like CPV Sentinel and Wind Energy Transmission Texas.

Edward Sonnenschein is a member of the corporate department and his practice is firmly rooted in the energy sphere. This experienced attorney provides counsel to private equity firms, investment funds and energy facilities. He contends with a variety of transactions, most commonly M&A and joint ventures. He is well respected in the market, with one peer characterizing him as "an intelligent technical lawyer."

Michael Gergen's DC-based practice revolves predominantly around regulation and its attendant issues. He applies his background as an economist to more routine compliance issues and idiosyncratic policy matters. Market commentators champion Gergen and describe him as "brilliant as to how the market rules work, and a creative thinker." Recently Gergen has helped Boston Generating meet regulatory guidelines during its sale to Constellation Energy.

David Schwartz is one of the attorneys at the helm of the energy practice's regulatory and markets section. He has established a reputation within the industry for both his legal acumen and service skills. Sources praise him for being "very good at advising on sticky regulatory issues" and "a first-rate person as well as lawyer." Recent work highlights include advising a Spanish power company on regulation adherence while it acquired a Brazilian electricity distributor.

Natasha Gianvecchio quickly climbed the ranks within the practice and has already established a reputation as a formidable attorney. She often advises on transactions and regulatory proceedings. One market commentator remarked: "We think she is excellent. She can handle complex matters with ease." In the past year, she advised Energy Capital Partners and one of its subsidiaries while it sought FERC approval on a renewable energy transmission project that spanned three Southwestern states.

Michael Darden anchors his corporate practice squarely within the oil and gas sphere, and has earned high marks among peers and clients. One source enthusiastically described him as "one of the lawyers and humans I admire most in the world. His work product is world-class." Recently, he represented Talon Oil & Gas when it sold 20,000 acres of land in the Barnett Shale.

Justin Stolte is a young lawyer who is building a reputation in the oil and gas arena. The Houston-based associate has earned praise for his broad transactional expertise. To quote one impressed client: “His work product was superior to any other associate I have worked with.”

Michael King is widely regarded as a "top-notch" upstream transactional lawyer, focusing on acquisitions, divestitures and project development. One client enthused: "He is the whole package - a tremendous workhorse with a substantive knowledge of the law."

Robin Fredrickson is praised for her industry expertise, having been described as "the purest of oil and gas lawyers." She focuses on a variety of corporate transactions, including acquisitions and divestitures of upstream and midstream energy assets and advising on the formation of partnerships. The former V&E lawyer is also described as "proactive, diligent and hard-working."

THE FIRM The firm’s energy practice group has built on its deep-rooted presence in the oil and gas industry to establish itself as one of the leading firms in the field. It has extensive experience in executing a range of corporate work, including M&A and joint ventures, as well as financing and investment. It combines this transactional expertise with a comprehensive knowledge of every corner of the market, including exploration and production, storage and refining. The firm’s impressive client list includes El Paso, First Reserve and Quantum Resources.

Sources say: “We benefit from them tremendously - they communicate in a clear and concise way and are incredibly responsive.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice cochair David Patton possesses a "tremendous depth of knowledge" in upstream M&A and other complex transactions concerning oil and gas companies. He has represented Comstock Oil & Gas in the sale of Mississippi oil and gas properties to Petro Harvester. A current client said: "He is a great example of a guy with a wealth of experience and a real sense for getting the deal done." 

THE FIRM Milbank's energy team is frequently commended for its transactional expertise, and also has a solid background in regulation. This team is spread throughout a number of offices nationwide and thus has the resources and manpower to advise both large financial institutions and major players in the power industry. Recently, the practice represented a private investment fund in its purchase of the remaining 20% share of Calypso Energy Holdings, having acquired the initial 80% in 2007. The practice has also recently represented a number of alternative energy utilities, such as Sharp, a sizable solar panel producer, which the firm advised during its acquisition of a projects developer based in the USA.

Sources say: "The team provides tremendous support and guidance. I have never felt so comfortable when it came to the attorney-client relationship as I do with Milbank."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Eric Silverman and Jonathan Green cochair the New York project finance group.

THE FIRM This boutique energy firm continues to offer a full range of services to its clients. It earns particular praise for its work in the regulatory and litigation arena, representing electricity companies before FERC in rate, transmission and other complex cases. On the transactional side, the firm is frequently sought out for its expertise in generation purchase acquisitions, as well as tolling and bulk supply agreements.

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Choukas-Bradley is a key practice contact.

THE FIRM Morgan Lewis provides comprehensive coverage of the energy industry, offering specialist legal advice on electricity, nuclear and oil and gas. It houses the country’s leading nuclear practice, known for its transactional and regulatory expertise. With more than 30 industry specialists, the firm continues to represent new nuclear entities in cutting-edge licensing cases before the NRC. It also provides assistance on obtaining NRC and DOE approval for exporting nuclear technology, as well as highly sought-after strategic and policy advice. The firm’s electricity practice advises a wide variety of companies on M&A, financing and other complex corporate transactions. It also provides regulatory and litigation counsel on a range of FERC and CFTC-related issues. The firm's highly respected oil and gas team is ever-present in pipeline rate and certification litigation, agency investigations and compliance-related activities. In the past year, it provided regulatory counsel to BHP Billiton in relation to its $12.1 billion acquisition of shale gas developer Petrohawk.

Sources say: “They are very responsive, working around the clock.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Asmus's status as one of the world's leading oil and gas transactional attorneys remains undisputed. He continues to provide advice on acquisitions, divestitures and energy-based financings, helping his clients "to see the big picture." He recently represented BHP Billiton in its acquisition of Petrohawk in a multibillion all-cash tender offer for all of the issued and outstanding shares. In the words of one client, "he is always on top of his game with all of the issues and developments in the industry."

Robert Reger has established an "excellent reputation" within the energy arena. His largely corporate practice includes advising investor-owned utilities and underwriting firms on a variety of finance issues. He is renowned for his capital markets expertise and is praised as being a "levelheaded and practical" attorney. Allegheny Energy and NextEra Energy are some of the big names that feature among his client base.

Thomas Giblin is another capital markets expert at "at the forefront" of Morgan Lewis' representation of the energy industry. He is applauded for his ability to "get a deal done." Giblin continues to work alongside Robert Reger in the firm's representation of ALLETE.

Douglas Davidson's broad practice focuses on the electricity industry, providing advice on a wide range of corporate transactions. "He does a tremendously good job representing his client." Davidson recently represented Ameren in the sale of an owner interest. 

John Hood advises energy industry participants on a variety of corporate and financial transactions, including debt and equity offerings, structured finance and bank lending transactions. He currently represents Northwest Natural Gas and UniSource Energy.

John McGrane is a "highly regarded" regulatory lawyer whose experience representing utilities and other electric entities spans three decades. He has built a particularly strong reputation at FERC's Office of Enforcement. He recently represented Entergy Services, Xcel Energy and other major organizations in NERC and compliance investigations. To quote one client: "He is very good at communicating complex issues in a concise, understandable manner."

Mark Haskell is a seasoned CFTC and FERC attorney. He represents natural gas and power marketers, local distribution companies and a wide variety of other industry clients. Attorneys describe him as "a pleasure to deal with" and "the complete package on the gas side." Clients are equally laudatory, saying: "He knows the context of our industry."

Energy practice leader Kathryn Sutton's ascent in the bands will come as little surprise. She provides regulatory counsel to establish nuclear utilities and is actively involved in the development of the next generation of nuclear power. Described as “forthright, hard-working and tenacious," she is seen as a “great strategist and thinker.” To quote one client: “She is the captain of our ship!”

Jay Gutierrez is a widely lauded nuclear lawyer with over 30 years' experience. In addition to his strong US practice, Gutierrez has recently taken a lead role in developing the international reach of the firm’s nuclear practice. He is described as a “methodical thinker,” able to “take a detailed conversation and turn it into a clear and concise argument in no time at all.” EDF Energy and Pinnacle West Capital are among his high-profile client list.

The "unflappable" Floyd Norton is another vastly experienced and highly respected energy attorney at the firm, known for keeping his "eye on the ball" when it comes to regulatory developments. He continues to represent electric utilities before FERC and is active in investigations of electric trading and transmission access practices. Norton is helping to represent Edison Electric Institute and other utilities as they respond to FERC's Transmission Planning and Cost Allocation Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

The “amazingly responsive” John Matthews has carved out a reputation as an “excellent business lawyer,” providing regulatory counsel on a range of commercial issues affecting the nuclear industry. A well-known presence at the NRC, he is “excellent on licensing and decommission issues” and is regarded as “a specialist on foreign owner and financing issues.” He was recently involved in a licensing proceeding before the NRC on behalf of Luminant.

Steven Frantz is another of the firm's prominent nuclear attorneys. He is regarded as an expert in certification and licensing issues, assisting new nuclear plants with his "encyclopedic knowledge of 10 CRF Part 52." He recently acted on behalf of Nuclear Innovation North America in a licensing proceeding before the NRC for a new nuclear power plant.

Alex Polonsky continues to grow in prominence in the nuclear arena. His expertise includes many issues, including decommission, license renewal and whistle-blowing investigations. He also litigates before the NRC's Atomic Safety and Licensing Boards. Exelon recently benefited from his NRC expertise in a matter concerning nuclear plant power uprates.

George Edgar has acted as lead counsel for a variety of leading nuclear industry clients before the NRC for several decades. To quote one fellow attorney: “He is one of the best nuclear lawyers I have ever met!”

Glen Bernstein is a new hire from Sidley Austin. He has extensive experience providing regulatory counsel to electric utilities, particularly in the areas of transmission and interconnection.

Donald Silverman represents an array of clients before the NRC, including utilities, fuel cycle companies and industrial and medical materials licensees. The experienced nuclear regulatory attorney also acts on behalf of DOE contractors on a variety of industry matters. He recently represented GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Holdings on an NRC license application relating to a laser enrichment facility.

The arrival of Charles Moore from Dewey & LeBoeuf adds yet more depth to this powerhouse practice. A former FERC general counsel, he has cemented his place as a leading oil and gas regulatory lawyer, combing his business sense and legal expertise to good effect. He has represented some of the industry's major oil and gas companies in proceedings before FERC, building a reputation as a "very astute negotiator and deal-maker."

THE FIRM Some of the oil and gas industry's leading companies continue to rely on Fulbright for a full range of services. Its dynamic and experienced transactional team has amassed high praise for its commercially oriented counsel, spanning upstream, midstream and downstream work. The firm's transactional strength is matched by its regulatory and litigation expertise. Boasting a vastly experienced attorney bench spread throughout the country, the firm continues to provide regulatory advice on a variety of complex natural gas pipeline and LNG issues. On the litigation front, the firm is still noted for its preeminence in the area of LNG siting and permitting practices for oil pipelines.

Sources say: “A very good firm with lots of great lawyers; we use them for a wide range of work."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Irvin continues to be regarded as one of the country’s leading oil and gas lawyers. He is actively engaged in a range of transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions and joint ventures, as well as project development and finance. He recently represented EOG Resources in its multimillion-dollar disposition of Prairie Rose Pipeline System in North Dakota.

Poe Leggette serves as cochair of the firm’s energy group. He is frequently sought out for his unparalleled expertise in DOI issues and has also amassed praise for his overall representation of oil and gas companies on a range of administrative and litigation issues. Described as a “phenomenal attorney,” his impressive client list includes Anadarko and Statoil.

New York-based Lisa Tonery attracts widespread praise for her representation of oil and gas companies before FERC and other agencies. She is particularly recognized for her expertise in LNG and natural gas storage issues. One client said: “She is incredibly dedicated to our projects, keeping us on schedule and on target.”

Peggy Heeg is a well-known and highly respected figure at both the FERC and CFTC. Her practice includes regulatory counsel on compliance, market manipulation, whistle-blower allegations and related party transactions. 

Deborah Gitomer is another integral member of the firm’s transactional team. Her well-regarded practice includes a comprehensive array of services to the oil and gas industry. Her clients include Cowtown Pipeline, Enbridge Holdings (Olympic) and Quicksilver Resources.

George Kutzschbach's status as a leader in the energy industry remains undisputed. This statesman is able to offer a level of corporate knowledge, which has been refined over decades, to major oil and gas companies. He provides ongoing advice to clients like Diamond Offshore Drilling.

Daniel McClure is held in high esteem throughout the energy industry and is described as an “excellent energy litigator.” He is known for his representation of oil and gas companies in complex proceedings and advises names like ConocoPhillips, Shell and other major industry players.

Tania Perez is a emerging talent within the firm's energy practice group. She has acted on a number of FERC cases involving an array of energy-related issues. Clients highlight her dedication and ability to “make things happen on short notice.” She continues to work closely with Lisa Tonery for Sabine Pass LNG and other oil and gas companies.

THE FIRM This vibrant practice has a geographical footprint that extends from coast to coast. Although the group is often noted for representing municipal utilities and publicly owned power agencies, it also has experience working with energy-focused investment funds and privately owned utilities. The team has handled matters such as bond issuances, equity and debt financings and M&A. In the past year, the group has represented the Tennessee Valley Authority, PG&E, and Minnesota-based Great River Energy. 

Sources say: "Their legal advice is of the highest quality. They do accurate work and have a good commercial eye. They have so much coverage of the market that you get comprehensive advice."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources characterize Adam Wenner as a "sound, decisive lawyer." He is a veteran attorney with over 25 years' experience and centers his practice on regulation matters. As former deputy assistant general counsel at FERC, Wenner is well versed in the Commission's regulations and proceedings, and often represents clients before it.

THE FIRM Patton Boggs is making a name for itself on the national energy scene, attracting praise throughout the industry. Much of the firm's rise can be attributed to its impressive energy regulatory and enforcement team, which continues to grow in both size and reputation. Led by former FERC commissioner Suedeen Kelly, its lawyers provide regulatory and litigation services to a host of energy entities from its offices in Dallas, Denver and Washington, DC. It has made particular strides in the oil and gas industry, representing big names such as Exelon and LS Power before FERC and other agencies.

Sources say: “They are a growing force in the FERC arena.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Janet Moran is a key contact.

THE FIRM Pillsbury houses an impressively broad energy practice, and is a national and global leader in the nuclear arena in particular. The energy department has advised clients on numerous cases before the NRC. The jewel in the firm's crown is its nuclear transactional practice, and its nuclear team represents both public utilities and IPPs, as well as overseas and domestic investors, in a whole host of transactions. Recent work highlights include advising a Japanese company on a joint venture to create a nuclear fuel producer in the USA. The firm also has an active energy transactional practice and recently advised Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse and others as underwriters in Constellation Energy's $550 million senior notes issuance.

Sources say: "One of the leaders in energy work. They focus on responding to the specific questions that I ask them. They also have a good sense of the market."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jeffrey Delaney is one of the global energy practice's helmsmen. He is known as an issuers' and underwriters' attorney who is at the top of his game. Sources note his ability to handle intricate transactions while providing exemplary client service. One client notes that his "work is first-rate. He is knowledgeable, responsive and service-oriented. He consistently looks for practical solutions to issues that arise." He has proved critical to many of the practice's major transactions in the past year, such as serving as lead counsel to the underwriters of the Constellation Energy offering.

David Baxter is one of the lead partners in the group's energy team and is known as a go-to attorney for capital markets deals, advising issuers and underwriters. Clients describe him as "very organized, knowledgeable, accessible, hard-working, reasonable in approach and personable." As of late, Baxter advised CMS Energy on a number of securities offerings.

Jay Silberg is widely regarded as one of the "deans of the nuclear Bar.” He represents a whole host of companies before the NRC on licensing, rulemaking and other nuclear industry issues. In addition to his NRC work, he is still regarded as the country’s leading expert on spent nuclear fuel issues, earning praise for his continued representation of electric utilities in complex litigation concerning the DOE’s obligation to take spent nuclear fuel.

Energy group leader David Lewis continues to make his mark in the world of nuclear plant regulation. His practice touches every aspect of the industry, providing counsel on decommissioning, enforcement, licensing, siting and whistle-blowing. He also provides assistance on the preparation of design certifications, as well as combined construction and operating licenses. Sources characterize him as a “legal strategist,” who is not afraid to “get down to the nitty-gritty.” He is currently working closely with Jay Silberg on the firm’s representation of PPL as it seeks to build a new nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania.

John O'Neill is frequently sought out for his expertise in the development of new nuclear facilities. He provides advice on licensing and investment, and is also known for his knowledge of reactor construction and design. Continuing his 30-year relationship with Progress Energy, he is currently executing its applications for a combined construction permit and operating licenses for two new nuclear facilities in North Carolina and Florida.

Charles Peterson is another vastly experienced nuclear regulatory attorney at the firm. His predominantly international focus adds further depth to Pillsbury’s dynamic nuclear expertise. He recently relocated much of his practice to the firm’s Silicon Valley office, which has allowed him to provide additional support to the firm’s Asian clients.

Anthony Terrell has cultivated a "great reputation serving issuers and underwriters" on public and private securities offerings. His impressive client list includes Louisville Gas & Electric and Kentucky Utilities.

THE FIRM This firm’s energy practice has established strong relationships within the oil and gas industry. Its Texas-based team continue to assist major industry names such as Noble Energy and Petrohawk on a variety of corporate issues. It executes transactions relating to development, exploration, production and asset sales, as well as general M&A work. The firm is also called upon for its corporate finance capabilities, which include reserve-based finance and debt and equity capital markets.

Sources say: “Their depth of knowledge in the industry has made them essential to our business.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources characterize Randall King as a “client-oriented, out-of-the-box thinker” who “strives to get the deal done.” Oil and gas companies benefit from his transactional advice, which is grounded in an “appreciation of energy business realities,” developed in his previous life as an independent petroleum landman. Randall King and Robert Thomas recently combined to represent W&T Offshore in the $366 million, headline-grabbing acquisition of oil and gas acreage in the West Texas Permian Basin from a private seller.

Robert Thomas continues to lead the firm’s energy group. Midstream and upstream oil and gas companies seek out his “outstanding industry-specific knowledge,” which he brings to bear on a range of transactions, including M&A, divestitures and project development. One client highlights his tendency “to go above and beyond the call of duty.”

THE FIRM Sidley Austin's oil and gas team has taken on impressively diverse deals and cases, representing clients during bankruptcy and restructuring proceedings, project financings, joint ventures and securities offerings. The firm acted as US project counsel throughout the course of the Alaska Pipeline Project, a joint venture between ExxonMobil and TransCanada in the constructing and operating of a pipeline through Alaska.  

Sources say: "I am impressed by their depth and breadth of expertise. When we had a large, complex matter, they could call upon their large pool of resources to help us, however nuanced the issue."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Eugene Elrod is a luminary in the oil regulatory world. He concentrates predominantly on pipelines' FERC compliance issues and investigatory proceedings. Those in the market give him high marks, especially regarding his ability to foster "incredible working relationships" with clients and opposing counsel. One source notes that he is an "excellent lawyer and a gentleman. He has a solid, practical sense of what his client's commercial needs are." He continues to team with other Sidley lawyers to represent ExxonMobil Pipeline during its FERC and Alaskan regulatory proceedings regarding transmission rates for the Trans Alaska Pipeline System.

William Williams's broad practice covers a number of energy sources, including natural gas and oil. He is regarded as a talented regulatory attorney who "brings a lot" to Sidley's energy offering. Recent work highlights include ongoing advice to Keystone Pipeline Project in a contentious environmental issue.

James Rice is a recent addition at the firm, joining from Akin Gump. He has been described as "the complete oil and gas lawyer," offering clients a broad range of expertise, covering M&A, divestitures and capital markets transactions. Clients continue to appreciate his "thoughtful and well-reasoned" advice.

Stan Berman is a highly skilled regulatory attorney who routinely works at both the national and state levels. Clients commend him for the professionalism he brings to cases: "He is very thorough, very responsive and detail-oriented." In the past year, Berman has acted for a power utility based on the West Coast during a number of FERC and state-level regulatory dealings, such as tariff filings and rate disputes.

Christopher Lyons is “making a name for himself” in the oil and gas regulatory and litigation arena. The young partner has shown experience “beyond his years” and has impressed fellow attorneys with his ability to "stand his ground” in proceedings.  

THE FIRM The firm has capitalized on its investment fund expertise and international resources to establish itself as a leading provider of transactional services to the US energy industry. It has gained traction in the electricity sector in particular, representing utilities and other electric companies on investment, M&A and securities work. It recently advised PPL on a series of high-value deals, including its $7.6 billion acquisition of E.ON US - the largest by a regulated utility in history. In April 2011, the firm announced the opening of an office in Houston, helping it to bring its transactional expertise to the oil and gas industry.

Sources say: "Great for transactional work; no firm has the same coverage as it does when it comes to M&A work."

KEY INDIVIDUAL Department head David Lieberman has been involved in a range of multibillion-dollar transactions over the course of his impressive career in the energy industry. Sources characterize him as "levelheaded, practical and supersmart." To quote one client: "He is extremely good at translating business issues into a legal context."

THE FIRM The firm’s preeminence in the energy industry goes without question. It continues to tower above all others in the electricity regulatory arena. Renowned for its ability to provide creative advice concerning FERC, CFTC and other regulatory issues, it is also active in compliance and enforcement work. The firm’s regulatory expertise is perfectly complemented by its leading transactional team, which is particularly well known for its execution of high-profile utility M&A transactions. Its regulatory and transactional experts collaborated to provide corporate counsel to Entergy as it sought to divest and then merge its electric transmission business into ITC Holdings. The firm is also seen as a force in the oil and gas market, representing natural gas pipelines, LNG facilities and other companies before FERC on an array of regulatory issues. It also applies its corporate expertise in the oil and gas arena, providing transaction counsel to companies operating in the downstream, midstream and upstream areas.  

Sources say: "They more than merit the adulation they receive. They are the real deal!”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Energy practice head Clifford Naeve remains “the number-one regulatory lawyer in the energy space in the United States.” The industry luminary is widely regarded as the “undisputed leader” in the electric power arena, representing high-profile utilities before FERC. He has “a proven track record” on the oil and gas side, having acted as regulatory counsel for major producers and natural gas pipelines on a range of issues. One client said: “He is a superstar attorney and tactician, able to inspire a lot of trust and get everyone on his side - he is an absolute prince!”

Sheldon Adler is “a tremendous name” in the energy arena. The corporate expert has assisted electric power companies in a range of transactions and is particularly well known as a “formidable presence in the M&A space.” Recent highlights include advising Northeast Utilities on its merger with NSTAR, to create one of the nation's largest electric utilities, with an enterprise value of $17.5 billion.

Pankaj Sinha serves as practice head of the DC M&A group. He possesses a specialist knowledge of corporate finance, M&A and securities. Sinha is widely regarded as a “quality attorney,” praised for his “calm and easy to work with manner.” He advised AES on its recent multibillion-dollar acquisition of DPL, a regional electric and utility company.

John Estes is a FERC litigation expert who advises on electric power market design, power and manipulation. He is well respected by peers, with one lawyer commenting: "I would have no hesitation in referring work to him – he is a terrific appellate lawyer!”  New England Power Generators Association and PJM Power Providers are among his impressive client list.

John Moot has represented leading electric power companies in cases at FERC involving complex compliance, enforcement and transactional issues. Sources say he is a “sophisticated practitioner,” known for his “excellent judgment.” To quote one client: “He not only sees all the issues, but pulls together compelling and persuasive arguments, which don't just sound good, but are also effective." Both Entergy and FirstEnergy are recent clients.

William Conway is another “technically superb" attorney, who “really understands all of the nuances” of the energy regulatory landscape. He specializes in the representation of IPPs, financial investors and utilities in a wide variety of regulatory matters.

Ann Hawkins executes a variety of transactions on behalf of major electricity clients. Developers, power purchasers and utilities continue to seek out her expertise on acquisitions, dispositions and energy trading.

THE FIRM Steptoe & Johnson is a major force in the energy regulatory field. It owes much of its lofty reputation to its dominance in the oil pipeline arena, where it continues to represent integrated and independent companies before FERC and other state regulatory agencies. The firm has scored a number of significant victories in the past year, including a ruling on behalf of the Association of Oil Pipe Lines (AOPL) in relation to FERC’s review of its inflation-based rate ceiling methodology. In addition to its oil pipeline regulatory strength, the firm has seen an increase in its transactional activity and cross-border project work. It continues to make impressive strides in the electricity market and provides regulatory counsel to IPPs, utilities and other power companies on issues including FERC and NERC compliance and enforcement. Steptoe continues to represent Southern California Edison at FERC, having handled billions of dollars of work thus far in ongoing proceedings. Over the past year, the firm’s regulatory lawyers has been actively involved in litigation relating to the drive to integrate renewable electricity generation into the US transmission grid.

Commercial Awareness “Steptoe & Johnson is our best option for FERC-related work.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Green's diverse practice covers an array of services to the electric power industry, representing companies on complex commercial and competition issues in a number of important cases before FERC and other authorities. He has built a particularly strong reputation as an “expert on the antitrust side” and is currently representing Entergy before the DOJ in a major antitrust investigation.  

David Raskin is a “creative and responsive” regulatory attorney armed with “real business acumen.” He has represented the electricity industry on a number of issues before all major regulatory commissions. The experienced practitioner has been particularly active in the area of transmission, counting American Electric and Northeast Utilities among his client list. One client was particularly impressed, saying: “He has been terrific in helping us navigate FERC’s regulations and providing us with strategic advice, which has helped us meet our business objectives.”

Richard Roberts is “one of the top electric regulatory lawyers” and represents electric utilities in various antitrust and regulatory cases at FERC. Recently appointed head of Steptoe's electricity practice, he continues to serve as lead trial attorney in the firm’s representation of Southern California Edison. One attorney recalled a memorable moment during a proceeding when Roberts “snatched victory from the jaws of defeat!”

Steven Ross's experience with representing the electricity industry before FERC and other courts spans more than two decades. “Client-focused and responsive,” his expertise lies in issues relating to FERC Standards of Conduct, Affiliate Restrictions and Open Transmission Access requirements. He has worked alongside Steve Reed, providing regulatory counsel to some of the industry’s most prominent transmission project developers.

Steven Brose is a highly regarded regulatory attorney who continues to “dominate the oil pipeline industry.” He has served as lead counsel for regulated pipeline companies in a multitude of complex proceedings before FERC. Brose is commended for possessing "a wealth of industry knowledge,” characterized by “a great insight into FERC” and a "nuanced understanding of how regulations will apply and their implications."

The "incredibly bright" Steven Reed has cemented his place as a leading oil and gas regulatory attorney. He has represented oil pipeline companies before numerous regulators on an array of matters for over two decades. The vastly experienced attorney is known for his "tremendous work ethic" and for being "perpetually available" for his clients.

Daniel Poynor is another “key lawyer” within the firm's regulatory outfit. His expertise includes pipeline rates and regulated practices. Recent highlights include obtaining a favorable ruling at FERC on behalf of the AOPL. One source said: “He is bright, witty and an excellent writer – he has a keen sense of FERC and the overall regulation of the oil pipeline arena.”

THE FIRM This practice is often sought out by public sector energy bodies and has a strong client base among municipal and cooperative utilities. The team handles ongoing regulatory advice, as well as more complex financings. Work highlights include representing Tacoma Public Utilities on a number of enforcement issues and financial transactions. Additionally, the group has defended the Sacramento Municipality District in a suit filed by a number of California's major energy utilities companies. 

Client Service "They are always available and willing to help."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Adrienne Clair is an emerging face on the energy scene. Sources note her regulation work and praise her personal qualities: "She is poised, with great litigation sense; she is a consensus builder." As of late, she successfully defended a state-level public utility regulatory body in litigation matters regarding the method by which the regulatory commission makes annual payments.

Peers commend Harvey Reiter for being "a very strong practitioner." He attaches his name to many of the firm's recent cases and recently served as one of the lead attorneys in the practice's dealings with the Sacramento Municipality District.

THE FIRM The firm is a highly respected member of the energy fraternity. It draws particular praise for its representation of regulated utilities, assisting them with corporate work ranging from M&A and securities to energy trading and restructuring. Dynegy and other major energy companies feature heavily on the firm’s client list, as do high-profile financial institutions. The firm's leading mining and metals practice continues to go from strength to strength. It recently represented Barrick in its $7.7 billion acquisition of Equinox Minerals. In addition to its M&A offering, the world-renowned practice is also well known for its project development expertise.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Joseph Frumkin's experience with carrying out a range of corporate transactions on behalf of regulated utilities has secured his place as one of the leading lawyers in the energy transactional space. He recently played a key role in the firm's representation of a special committee of the board of directors of Southern Union in connection with proposed bids for Southern Union by Energy Transfer Equity and The Williams Companies. The New York-based attorney has been described as a "first-rate attorney," who "knows the electric power industry like the back of his hand!"

Special counsel Tia Barancik is widely regarded as a knowledgeable source of energy expertise, representing major energy companies and public utilities in both regulatory and transactional matters. She is praised for her ability to "understand a client's concerns" and is seen as a "Public Holding Utility Act expert."

THE FIRM The firm’s energy and environmental practice group earns plaudits for its impressive representation of the industry. Its electric regulatory, compliance and enforcement team is able to offer expert counsel to independent system operators and other entities on a variety of issues, including cogeneration, interconnection and market design. The team is also active in FERC and CFTC compliance and enforcement cases, and continues to provide regulatory support for commodities trading, derivatives and other energy transactions.

Sources say: “The firm brings knowledge, expertise and experience on a broad range of energy-related matters.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Keith McCrea remains a "very popular" regulatory lawyer, with a "very fine reputation" in the electricity market. He has established "a prominent presence at FERC," having garnered particular praise for his work in the area of compliance and enforcement. A respected environmental lawyer as well, his recent work has involved siting and interconnection issues associated with large solar and wind generation projects.  

Catherine Krupka comes highly recommended, winning plaudits from fellow attorneys and clients. She advises commodities trading companies on a variety of issues, including compliance and enforcement. Krupka is described as someone who "brings a lot of litigation sense to the table," most notably her ability to "cut through complex issues." She recently advised a trade association on Dodd-Frank compliance issues relating to power generation supply.

Daniel Frank represents energy trading companies, electric cooperatives and other entities before FERC. He also provides counsel in relation to NERC compliance and is currently assisting a transmission and distribution utility in Texas in connection with two audits. The respected practitioner is commended for his "great industry experience" and "thorough and helpful" advice.

THE FIRM Thompson & Knight has served the oil and gas industry for more than 90 years. Its deep-rooted presence in the market has allowed it to develop an intimate knowledge of the upstream and midstream sectors, as well as establish close ties with industry participants. The firm has acted for independent, multinational and sovereign oil and gas companies, refineries and major drilling organizations. It is particularly well known for its transactional capabilities, advising the oil and gas industry on M&A, securities, structured financing and private equity investment. Its lawyers recently represented the majority holder of Frac Tech Services in selling its Frac Tech equity to a foreign consortium for $3.7 billion. In addition to its national presence, the firm is increasingly active in overseas oil and gas project development.

Sources say: “They take a personal interest in my business - they are responsive and the engagement is a real partnership.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Derman continues to serve as the firm's cross-border energy practice head and is increasingly active in international upstream work, in addition to his solid domestic practice. He is currently assisting Kosmos Energy with the development of a number of multibillion-dollar projects off the coast of Ghana.

Dallas-based John Rain is a well-known figure in the oil and gas transactional arena and is described as having a "mastery of the issues attendant to oil and gas work," and is particularly renowned as an "expert in volumetric production payment."

THE FIRM Thompson Coburn’s utility law practice group has carved out a niche in the market representing publicly owned electric systems. It provides regulatory counsel on FERC compliance and enforcement, as well as on transmission and rate issues. The group continues to count American Municipal Power, Lafayette Utilities System and the Louisiana Energy & Power Authority among its impressive client list.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Bonnie Blair is a widely respected FERC attorney, who provides counsel on ratemaking and regulatory policy, electric industry restructuring issues and other important issues affecting the electricity market. One client said: "She's an experienced lawyer and a real asset - we're lucky to have her!"

THE FIRM This firm is a highly sought-after provider of electricity regulatory counsel. It houses an experienced and talented attorney bench, which continues to handle an array of complex issues, including interconnection, reliability and transmission. The firm's regulatory prowess extends to the oil and gas sphere, where it represents interstate and intrastate natural gas pipelines, storage companies, local distribution companies and other major companies. It is also visible in the nuclear regulatory sphere, underpinning the firm's comprehensive coverage of the energy industry.

Sources say: "They have an extremely sophisticated FERC power practice."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "extremely talented" Lisanne Crowley continues to represent a wide range of oil and gas companies in complaint, enforcement and ratemaking cases before FERC. Her client list includes major distributors, as well as natural gas pipelines and storage companies.

Daniel Larcamp is a prominent member of the firm's energy practice. A former FERC senior staffer, he is known for his "encyclopedic knowledge" of the regulatory and policy issues affecting the industry. The well-respected and highly popular attorney continues to represent both investor-owned and public utilities before FERC in relation to the design of electric capacity markets.

Clifford Sikora is another vastly experienced regulatory attorney at the firm who has established a "strong reputation" in the electricity arena. He provides counsel to traditional utilities, IPPs and other industry participants on a variety of day-to-day FERC issues. He is also active in FERC enforcement and reliability cases.

Arthur Domby is a well-respected nuclear attorney. He provides regulatory counsel to nuclear power plant and nuclear material licensees, and other commercial entities in the industry.

THE FIRM Van Ness Feldman is a name synonymous with the energy industry. Its electricity regulatory practice has all bases covered, providing counsel on compliance and enforcement issues, as well as representation in administrative, appellate and trial litigation. Utilities, IPPs and other electric companies are also able to take advantage of the firm's noteworthy project development and finance capacities. The firm maintains a strong offering in the oil and gas sphere as well, and has been particularly active in providing advice to natural gas entities in connection with the burgeoning Marcellus, Bakken, Barnett, Fayetteville and Eagle Ford shale formations. The depth of the firm's regulatory and policy expertise is mirrored by its presence at FERC, where it continues to engage in a variety of complex compliance, enforcement and rate cases. It recently assisted Columbia Gulf Transmission with the preparation and filing of a significant rate case and on the development of new services and non-rate tariff modifications.

Sources say: "They are one of the very few firms which can demonstrate a true understanding of energy policy and how it has evolved."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Smith is a regulatory attorney held in the "highest regard" who "clearly understands the field." He is a former general counsel at FERC and, more recently, has advised numerous electricity companies on a range of issues, including commission rulemaking, rates and policy. His fellow practitioners see him as a "very thoughtful" member of the regulatory community, while clients have highlighted his "excellent ability to craft a winning argument."  

Margaret Moore's "superb" representation of utilities, IPPs and other power organizations has not gone unnoticed. She is seen throughout the energy industry as a leading regulatory attorney, particularly in the realm of FERC compliance work. Power companies also benefit from her respected project development and restructuring practice. One source said: "She produces work which is of consistently high quality. You can trust her to get the job done."

Curtis Moffatt's broad practice covers enforcement, rulemaking and rate counsel, as well as strategic advice to various oil and gas entities. He is described as "a very strategic thinker with experience of dealing at the highest level of pipeline work." Recent highlights include advising Columbia Gulf Transmission on its first rate case in over a decade. After a complex advisory and negotiation process, Moffatt and his colleagues are currently assisting the pipeline with settling the matter.

Robert Nordhaus continues to play a pivotal role in the firm's representation of the electricity power industry. He capitalizes on his previous experience as the first general counsel of FERC to provide regulatory counsel to clients like the DOE's Loan Guarantee Program in relation to due diligence for federal loan guarantees. Sources praise the DC-based partner as a "terrific attorney." 

Howard Shapiro is one of the most widely respected names in the regulatory arena. He utilizes his "long history in the industry" to great effect, providing highly sought-after counsel to electric utilities, IPPs and a host of other electricity entities. Resale Power Group of Iowa has worked with Shapiro on a series of administrative and state court litigations.

The "excellent and very well-respected" Gary Bachman is another integral member of the firm's electricity regulatory practice. He is particularly well known for his reliability-related work before FERC and NERC, and also garners praise for his project development counsel. He recently collaborated with Doug Smith on the firm's representation of Puget Sound Energy on a petition for a declaratory order requesting FERC approval of locational exchange transactions.

Paul Korman is an "ever-present" force in the natural gas arena. He provides regulatory counsel to pipelines, natural gas producers and other market participants, representing them before FERC and other authorities. He continues to advise Dominion Cove Point LNG on issues relating to a Natural Gas Act Section 4 rate case. For both peers and clients alike, "he is a top-notch attorney." 

Lawrence Acker and Brian D O'Neill, recent recruits from Dewey & LeBoeuf, add extra depth and breadth to a practice that already ranks among the best in the market. The "engaging" Acker continues to be regarded as a "first-rate" regulatory attorney. His "encyclopedic command" of energy regulatory issues has been utilized by both electricity and oil and gas companies in matters before FERC. He is known for his "excellent judgment" and "great people skills," along with his "gold-plated" quality of work. The "experienced and pragmatic" O'Neill often works alongside Acker in providing counsel to natural gas pipelines, LNG developers, marketers and other industry participants. He is still regarded as a dean of the profession.

THE FIRM Venable's DC-based practice is well equipped to execute a broad spectrum of energy-related work, including litigation, regulatory and transactional work. It has made particular headway in the oil and gas world, where it has established a devoted client following, due in no small part to its work in the regulatory and litigation arena. Producers, refiners and other industry players can be found on the firm’s growing client list.

Sources say: “They give practical rather than 'textbook' answers to complex issues.”

KEY INDIVIDUAL Practice chair Richard Powers is an experienced regulatory attorney who continues to help oil and gas companies “navigate the politics and processes of FERC.” He is praised for his ability “to see the bigger picture and put forward a strong case” on behalf of his clients.

THE FIRM Vinson & Elkins continues to be regarded as a one-stop shop for the energy industry, offering world-class litigation, regulatory and transactional expertise. Building on its Texas foundations, the firm has established a herculean presence in the oil and gas market, providing outstanding transactional services, which span joint ventures, M&A, and upstream and midstream work. It has been particularly active in the shale arena, advising on an aggregate of over $35 billion in deals during the first half of 2011 alone. The firm’s leading regulatory and litigation team is an ever-present force at FERC and has been increasingly active in the emerging area of hydraulic fracturing. V&E has also made a name for itself in the electricity arena. A diverse client base, including utilities and financial institutions, continue to receive commercially savvy financing, investment and M&A support, as well as expert regulatory and litigation counsel.

Sources say: "A first-rate team populated with superstars!"

KEY INDIVIDUALS Transactional practice head Marcia Backus is considered one of the "leaders of the energy field." She "swings effortlessly between the oil and gas and electricity arenas," providing transactional support to a wide range of energy companies. Backus is venerated as a "wonderful M&A lawyer" and is equally adept at providing counsel on joint ventures and private equity investment. To quote one client: "She is an unbelievably skilled energy lawyer - she knows everything about the area."

Practice head David Andril's regulatory expertise is held in high esteem by attorneys and clients alike. He often represents natural gas clients in proceedings before the FERC and state utility commissions, including rate and certificate matters. "He's a terrific, results-oriented lawyer."  

The "exceptional" Charles Caldwell attracts widespread praise from his enthusiastic client base. He is described as an "outstanding litigator at FERC and the court of appeal," counseling pipeline clients on a range of complex regulatory issues. Clients are quick to highlight his "superb legal skills with a personal touch."

Douglas Bland has cemented his place as a "first-class pipeline lawyer." He has extensive experience executing a range of corporate transactions on behalf of downstream, midstream and upstream clients. He is currently working alongside Marcia Backus advising Korea National Oil on a $1.55 billion joint venture aimed at purchasing a stake in a shale oil block from Anadarko.

Henry May is an “experienced and well-respected” regulatory attorney. His Houston-based practice has become a permanent fixture in the oil and gas world, continuing to represent entities before FERC and other agencies in a variety of complex proceedings.

David Cohen's corporate transactional practice bridges the gap between oil and gas and electric power work, offering M&A, joint venture and project development counsel. He recently represented Constellation Energy Group, helping it to complete its acquisition of MXEnergy. His has attracted widespread praise for his broad expertise and his "exceedingly thoughtful" approach.

Rising transactional star John Connally "continues to do impressive things" in the energy space. He is currently playing a key role in the firm's representation of Statoil, in its proposed $4.7 billion purchase of Brigham Exploration. He has won plaudits for his "great legal skills," which include his "pragmatic negotiating style, excellent drafting skills and ability to get the deal done."

John Decker advises both natural and power companies on the regulatory dynamics of energy acquisitions, sales and other transactions. He recently teamed up with David Cohen on the firm's representation of Constellation Energy. One peer said: "He transforms difficult situations into fixable problems, before delivering effective solutions."

Stephen Angle has earned a reputation as a "terrific regulatory attorney," representing the electricity industry before FERC and NERC in compliance, enforcement and other complex proceedings. Sources praise him as a "pleasure to work with."

Michael Rosenwasser is an "outstanding lawyer" who is best known for his corporate finance work in the energy industry. He has a "phenomenal reputation in the securities space" and is widely commended for his MLP expertise and his expertise in the tax arena. 

Alan Baden adds further depth to V&E's transactional expertise. He advises oil and gas companies engaged in oil and gas exploration and production, assisting them with a multitude of complex corporate matters. Clients are quick to highlight his qualities, characterizing him as "detail-oriented" and as someone "who knows every aspect of the deals he works on."

"First-class M&A lawyer" Keith Fullenweider continues to make a name for himself in the oil and gas arena, executing a wide range of energy transactions. A recent work highlight includes his representation of TPG Capital in establishing a joint venture with ACON Investments to purchase a majority of Marathon Oil's downstream assets, a deal worth $900 million.

John Kennedy is another attorney within the firm's oil pipeline regulatory practice, particularly praised by sources for his wonderful writing skills. He is able to call upon almost four decades of experience in the energy field in order to assist pipelines in proceedings before FERC.

Anita Wilson is "developing a great reputation in the oil and gas industry," according to fellow attorneys. She is a "talented FERC attorney," known for her stellar representation of natural gas pipelines, LNG importers and other participants on certification, compliance and other matters.

Bert Tabor has provided broad-based counseling to the industry for a number of years, cementing his reputation as a "highly regarded" regulatory attorney in the oil pipeline arena.

THE FIRM White & Case spreads its energy offering over several offices, which has allowed the practice to develop diverse areas of expertise and a broad geographical footprint. The firm's New York office houses a globally renowned transactions team. The practice advises on many types of deals, recently acting for Great Basin Transmission South on its sale of a 25% stake in One Nevada Transmission Line to NV Energy. That deal was followed by advice to Great Basin on the further development of its remaining 75% stake, pursuant to a $343 million DOE loan guarantee. The DC-based energy regulatory team routinely appears before FERC concerning major transactions and diligence matters. It has represented American Consumer Industries while the Delaware-based holdings company sought FERC transactional approval to sell one of its subsidiaries to Greenleaf Investment Holdings. 

Sources say: "They have a very strong practice and bring comprehensive knowledge to the table. They are excellent at identifying risk."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Earle O'Donnell is veteran attorney who has established himself as a leader on regulatory matters. Market commentators praise him for being a "sophisticated practitioner" and "an extremely hard worker." He recently served as one of the lead attorneys on the firm's dealings with American Consumer Industries.

Michael Shenberg is a top-notch transactional attorney and is lauded for being "practical and getting deals done for clients." He advises clients on a whole host of transactions, including M&A and divestitures. 

Donna Attanasio advises on regulatory issues, particularly before FERC, and is hailed as a "remarkable, smart and focused attorney." Recent work highlights include providing regulatory counsel for Constellation Energy Holdings during its purchase of power plants from Boston Energy.

Daniel Hagan is a leader on regulation and liability matters. Lately, Hagan represented Occidental Energy on regulatory proceedings regarding its acquisition of a joint interest in the Californian Elk Hills power facility.

THE FIRM Winston & Strawn has served the energy industry for the past three decades, achieving recognition for its work in the electric power field. The firm's experienced regulatory and litigation attorneys continue to represent investor-owned utilities, merchant generators and energy developers on a myriad of issues before FERC and other authorities. Clients are also able to capitalize on the firm's deep knowledge of independent system operators and regional transmission organizations, as well as its transactional expertise. Outside the electric power sector, the firm also offers a respected nuclear regulatory practice. It represents utilities in NRC compliance, enforcement and licensing hearings. The firm's regulatory efforts are complemented by its execution of commercial, tax and transactional matters for major nuclear clients.

Sources say: "They are very practical and get to the heart of the matter quickly."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Repka has sealed his reputation as an "outstanding NRC lawyer." His highly commended nuclear regulatory practice spans compliance, licensing and enforcement work. He counseled Honeywell, achieving significant victory for the company in the DC Circuit Court of Appeals in relation to the NRC's denial of a requested license amendment. One impressed client said: "He is professional yet down to earth and personable - in short, he's the best nuclear regulatory litigator!"

Raymond Wuslich has built a strong reputation as "an outstanding attorney," representing utilities, generators and independent transmission companies before FERC. Clients benefit from his "careful and methodical" approach to filings, strategy and litigation. He recently secured a FERC dismissal on behalf of Allegheny Energy Supply after the California Attorney General brought a $190 million complaint against Allegheny.

THE FIRM This DC-based energy boutique houses a robust regulatory and litigation practice that has gained a foothold in both the electricity and oil and gas industries. On the electricity side, the firm's highly rated and experienced team are a well known presence at FERC, representing regional transmission organizations (RTO) and independent system operators (IPO) in a variety of cases. Its impressive client list includes Ameren and Continental Energy. The firm's regulatory strength can been seen in the oil and gas market, where it continues to advise pipeline companies on a variety of matters, including compliance, construction and enforcement. Distribution companies, storage companies, producers and marketers also benefit from Wright & Talisman's regulatory expertise. Its lawyers recently obtained a number of favorable rulings on behalf of Anadarko in rate cases.

Client Service "They have been terrific. Our relationship has transcended the legal, blossoming into a truly collaborative endeavor."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "highly regarded" Barry Spector has "extensive experience" in energy regulation. He is particularly well known for his representation of electric utilities before FERC, along with his refined knowledge of ISOs and RTOs. He has attracted widespread market praise in recent times for his work for JM Interconnection at FERC, which has been described as "a monumental undertaking." 

Wendy Reed is another well-respected attorney at the firm known for her "in-depth knowledge of the regulatory issues" facing electric utilities. She has made a name for herself representing transmission owners, establishing "exceptional client relations" along the way. She is seen as a "strategic thinker" and an altogether "brilliant mind."

Arnold Podgorsky is a popular regulatory attorney with extensive experience with providing counsel on transmission rate incentives, market manipulation and other FERC-related issues. He continues to represent some of the biggest names in the electricity industry, including WSPP. Clients praise "the depth of his knowledge in the regulatory arena," as well as his "innovation" in helping them reach their goals.

Alan Statman's "repository of FERC knowledge" has allowed him to establish a strong reputation in the regulatory scene. He advises investor-owned utilities, independent transmission companies and IPPs on a raft of issues, including cost allocation and the structuring of energy transactions. Described as "articulate and creative," he has been praised for his "common sense and business acumen."

Wendy Warren continues to draw praise for her work in the electricity regulatory arena. Her broad practice encompasses market rules, open access transmission issues and rate issues. She continues to advise members of the Midwest ISO Transmission Owners group on a variety of matters, including complex cost allocation, rate design and planning. One client enthused: "She consistently produces high-quality work" and "is the one who make sure it all happens."

Joseph Koury spearheads the firm's efforts in the oil and gas industry. He has represented natural gas pipeline players before FERC and other agencies for almost three decades. The DC-based lawyer played a key role in the firm's representation of Anadarko, solidifying his reputation as "one of the best rate attorneys in the business."

Michael Thompson adds further depth to Wright & Talisman's oil and gas regulatory offering, advising clients in a range of FERC-related matters. He continues to represent Kern River Gas Transmission, helping it to achieve three favorable rate-connected orders.