Shipman & Goodwin Strengthens Environmental Team with Attorney Brendan Schain's Expertise
Brendan Schain has officially joined the Hartford office of Shipman & Goodwin LLP as a partner within their Environmental Practice Group, transitioning from his previous role as the Legal Office Director at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Known for his influential work in shaping Connecticut's environmental regulations, Schain will spearhead efforts to help clients navigate the impending changes due to the release-based cleanup program, a regulatory framework set to take effect in March 2026.
As Connecticut shifts from the long-established Transfer Act, which has guided environmental policy for four decades, Schain's expertise is crucial. The new release-based cleanup regulations are designed to streamline compliance processes for a diverse array of stakeholders. These include industrial property owners, real estate developers, banks, healthcare providers, and educational institutions. Schain’s role will be to provide counsel on pollution investigation and remediation, ensuring that clients understand the associated reporting requirements and compliance standards necessary to meet the new regulations.
Andrew Davis, the chair of the Environmental Practice at Shipman, praised Schain's reputation as a leader in environmental law. He stated that Schain’s insights will significantly enhance the firm's capability to support clients through these significant regulatory developments. Schain's experience in drafting the new regulations not only showcases his regulatory acumen but also positions him as a pivotal resource as Connecticut embraces a more modernized approach to environmental compliance.
During his tenure at DEEP, Schain played a critical role in advising agency leadership on a broad spectrum of environmental issues, encompassing air and water quality, waste management, and emergency response. His leadership contributed significantly to transitioning Connecticut’s strategies towards pollution remediation, indicating his depth of knowledge in both enforcement and policy formulation. His experiences as a hearing officer in enforcement actions and contested cases have equipped him with a unique perspective that greatly benefits his clients.
Joining a top-ranked environmental practice group is an exciting prospect for Schain. He expressed enthusiasm about leveraging the expertise of Shipman’s formidable legal team to guide clients through the complexities of emerging environmental laws. He emphasized that this collaboration would be essential for tackling the nuanced statutory and regulatory reforms that characterize Connecticut’s environmental landscape today.
Shipman & Goodwin shows strategic foresight with Schain’s addition, reflecting a commitment to bolstering their environmental practice amidst evolving regulations. This move follows their recent expansion in the Northeast, underscoring the firm’s dedication to meeting the growing legal needs of their diverse clientele. By integrating Schain's specialized knowledge into their practice, the firm is not only reinforcing their environmental legal capabilities but also enhancing their support for business initiatives that benefit from sustainable practices.
Schain, who holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from American University, is licensed to practice in Connecticut. His arrival at Shipman underscores the firm’s mission to deliver exceptional legal services that prioritize environmental stewardship, community enhancement, and business practicality.
Through equipped and knowledgeable legal support, Shipman’s Environmental Group aims to remain at the forefront of changes in environmental legislation, policies, and management. Their collaborative approach seeks to empower clients in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing, to achieve compliance and success within the new regulatory framework. By fostering strong relationships with clients and providing comprehensive counsel, Shipman & Goodwin continues to solidify its standing as a leader in environmental law in the region.