The oil and gas industry must maintain a careful balance in order to meet the world's growing energy needs while managing environmental impact. Striking the right balance requires navigation of local laws, national regulations, and societal concerns – and an experienced legal partner.

Akerman's Energy Sector Team handles environmental matters for chemical companies, oil production and refining companies, and other energy-focused entities. We also represent developers that own properties leased to chemical companies. Our multidisciplinary team is comprised of recognized environmental leaders and includes a former general counsel at the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), a former deputy general counsel at the Florida DEP, and a former deputy assistant secretary for Water and Science at the U.S. Department of the Interior. Collectively, we have comprehensive experience in all facets of environmental counseling, permitting, due diligence, and litigation.

We advise clients on administrative environmental proceedings, including government enforcement actions, Superfund cases, contract and indemnity claims, toxic tort suits, and challenges to federal and state rulemakings. In addition, we provide counsel on natural resource issues, underground storage tanks, releases, and other matters involving soil and groundwater contamination. Our team has broad experience with environmental regulation and legislation, including the Clean Air Act, the Resource Convention and Recovery Act (RCRA), and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).