Van Ness Feldman LLP‘s Native American affairs team is well-versed in providing regulatory advice and leading as counsel in litigation matters, with specialist experience advising Alaskan tribal governments and owned businesses. Alongside this, the group has extensive experience in energy project development, where it represents midstream natural gas and oil companies, as well as a tribally owned and operated hydropower facility. Andrew VanderJack is regarded for his experience in public lands, natural resources, and wider federal law regarding Native American interests. He leads the team alongside Laura Jones, who is a key contact for regulatory compliance matters, as well as being well-versed in advising on commercial lending and land use. Supporting tribal clients through litigation is Patrick Daugherty, who has experience in managing class action suits. Melinda Meade Meyers undertakes a range of lobbying and policy issues. All lawyers mentioned are based in Washington DC.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The Van Ness Feldman team excels in every way.'
- ‘Patrick Daughtery has always been extremely professional with incredible dignity.’
Key clients
- Cherokee Nation
- Osage Nation
- Federally Recognized Tribe
- Alaska Federation of Natives
- Huna Totem Corporation
- Energy Keepers Inc.
- Doyon, LTD
- ANCSA Regional Association
- North Slope Borough
- Sealaska Corporation
Work highlights
Representing the Cherokee Nation in its breach of trust litigation against the United States in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
Secured an appellate court victory forthe Osage Nation, a Native American nation of the Great Plains, in the Missouri Court of Appeals, protecting Osage burial moundsby overturning amining permitissued by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources that threatened to damage a variety of historical and cultural resources.
Practice head
Laura Jones; Andrew VanderJack
Other key lawyers
Patrick Daugherty; Melinda Meade Meyers