Recommended for its expertise in multijurisdictional matters, including advice on catastrophic event response, asbestos exposure, and chemical releases, Norton Rose Fulbright’s portfolio spans an array of industries, including the petrochemical, energy, and manufacturing sectors. Recent work highlights include the representation of a major oil and gas company in the MTBE Multi-District Litigation, related to allegations of groundwater contamination in the Southern District of New York. Leading the team from Houston, Brett Young’s wide-ranging practice encompasses regulatory and disputes work, including experience in civil jury trials in state and federal courts, and international arbitration. Co-heading the practice, Los Angeles-based Scott Burton advises clients on government enforcement, disputes, and legislative matters across the toxic tort space. Based in Houston, Justin VandenBout represents Vulcan Materials alongside Young in nationwide litigation alleging groundwater contamination by 1,4-dioxane. Also in Houston, Devin Wagner represents energy producers and engineering firms in environmental litigation and toxic tort defense. Graig Alvarez rejoined the firm from Alvarez Stauffer Breme.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The firm represents us nationwide in this category. We would trust no one else to handle this critical work. They have a long history with us, and their lawyers bring real-world, first-class, trial experience to the docket.'
- 'The team truly partner with us and are amenable to any innovation that can contribute to the success of the client. ’
- ‘Steve Dillard and Brett Young are truly "bet the company" category lawyers. Tough as nails, but tactful, courteous, and professional.’
Key clients
- 3M Company
- AT&T
- Energy Transfer LP
- EOG Resources Inc.
- LyondellBasell Industries
- Phillips 66 Company
- Shell USA, Inc.
- Targa Resources
- Vulcan Materials Company
- Walmart Inc.
Work highlights
Representing Vulcan Materials in nationwide litigation involving alleged groundwater contamination by 1,4-dioxane, including dozens of cases in the Eastern District of New York and a natural resource damages suit brought by the State of New Jersey.
Representing a major oil and gas company in the MTBE Multi-District Litigation in the Southern District of New York, where plaintiffs seek hundreds of millions for alleged groundwater contamination.
Represented a Fortune 500 company in complex toxic tort litigation arising from chlorinated solvent contamination. Defeated federal class certification on claims of vapor intrusion and personal injury.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Justin VandenBout
Practice head
Brett Young; Scott Burton
Other key lawyers
Justin VandenBout; Devin Wagner; Steve Dillard