Greenberg Traurig Enriches Environmental Expertise with New Addition Shawn LaTourette

In a significant step to enhance its environmental practice, global law firm Greenberg Traurig has welcomed Shawn M. LaTourette as a shareholder at its New Jersey office. LaTourette, who previously served as the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), brings extensive experience and a proven track record in navigating complex environmental and regulatory landscapes. His addition not only bolsters the firm's capabilities in environmental law but also aligns with the strategic vision to lead in one of the most impactful markets for environmental policy in the United States.

As the NJDEP Commissioner, LaTourette was at the forefront of directing the state's environmental management. He oversaw a vast team of 3,400 professionals and spearheaded critical regulatory reforms that addressed pressing environmental, health, and safety challenges. His leadership led to the recovery of more than $3.5 billion for remediation projects and damages, showcasing his effectiveness in securing necessary resources for the state's environmental initiatives. Furthermore, LaTourette's role extended beyond New Jersey, chairing national initiatives focused on infrastructure and sustainability, which positioned him as a influential figure in environmental policy development both locally and nationally.

Prior to his tenure as Commissioner, LaTourette held the role of chief legal and regulatory affairs counsel at NJDEP, where he honed his skills in environmental law and cultivated a deep understanding of the legislative framework governing these issues. His experience included representing various private sectors—ranging from manufacturing to energy—before state and federal regulatory agencies.

Philip R. Sellinger, co-chair of Greenberg Traurig's global litigation practice and the founding chair of the firm's New Jersey office, remarked on LaTourette's hiring as a transformative moment for the firm and emphasized the commitment to meeting the complex demands of clients in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. Sellinger noted that he and LaTourette had previously collaborated on a joint federal and state water quality investigation while Sellinger was serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, indicating a foundation of trust and shared goals between the two professionals.

The integration of LaTourette into the firm will specifically benefit clients in areas requiring tailored permitting and development strategies aimed at mitigating risks in high-growth sectors like energy, logistics, IT, and infrastructure. His dual perspective from both public service and private practice enables LaTourette to effectively represent clients embroiled in environmental investigations, civil enforcement actions, and litigation matters at both state and federal levels.

"New Jersey has always been a pivotal location for establishing environmental law, and Shawn's extensive experience in both shaping and enforcing such laws over the years makes him an invaluable asset," asserted Steven C. Russo, co-chair of the global environmental practice. His addition is expected to have a positive ripple effect, strengthening the firm's environmental practice and benefiting clients across the nation.

Former New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy spoke highly of LaTourette, highlighting his central role in addressing crucial environmental, energy, and infrastructure issues for the state and commending his legal acumen in modernizing the regulatory framework. Murphy’s acknowledgment underscores LaTourette's reputable standing in the sphere of environmental law.

LaTourette expressed his enthusiasm about joining Greenberg Traurig, which he believes provides the ideal platform for developing a robust environmental practice that maintains strong local roots while offering a broader, national perspective. He affirmed his eagerness to work alongside talented legal professionals at the firm and contribute to the growth of its environmental practice.

This strategic expansion of Greenberg Traurig's Environmental Practice comes on the heels of the recent additions of Matthew J. Douglas and Gregory R. Tan in Denver, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to enhancing its environmental capabilities. Greenberg Traurig, with a vast network of approximately 3,100 lawyers across 51 global locations, is recognized for its comprehensive and innovative legal services, consistently earning accolades as a top law firm. Their unyielding dedication to philanthropy and pro-bono work further cements their reputation in delivering impactful legal solutions.

With LaTourette on board, Greenberg Traurig is set to elevate its service offerings, ensuring that clients navigate complex environmental challenges with updated strategies and comprehensive legal support.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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