Partner or Of Counsel Energy & Utilities (Sacramento or San Francisco) (Sacramento)

Partner or Of Counsel – Energy & Utilities (Sacramento or San Francisco)

Downey Brand, one of California’s leading law firms in water, environmental, energy, and natural resources law, is seeking a high‑caliber partner or of counsel to join our energy and public utility group within the Natural Resources Department. This is an exciting opportunity for attorneys looking to grow their practices and work on cutting‑edge legal issues in both the public and private sectors.

About the Role

As a key member of our team, in addition to your portable book of business, you will have additional opportunities to represent a diverse range of clients statewide on energy regulatory proceedings, energy‑related contracts, energy project permitting and development, and other environmental matters. Typical issues handled by the group include:

• Representing clients in a wide array of regulatory proceedings at the California Public Utilities Commission, on energy, communications, water, and transportation issues such as regulated utility ratemaking, regulatory compliance, energy market design policy and mechanics, procurement obligations for reliability and renewable resources, purchase and sale of utility assets, wildfire safety and mitigation, and other topics.
• Representing clients in matters before the California Energy Commission, the California Independent System Operator, the Office of Energy Infrastructure and Safety, and the California Air Resources Board.
• Negotiating a broad spectrum of energy‑related contracts, including power purchase agreements and interconnection agreements.
• Advising developers of generation, storage, and transmission projects.
• Identifying and anticipating developments involving complex utilities regulations and changed regulatory requirements.

What We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate is an experienced, entrepreneurial attorney with a portable book of business that complements our energy and utilities practice. We are seeking someone who is a self‑starter, eager to take on client‑facing responsibilities, and ready to contribute to challenging and impactful work. A track record of success in energy and utilities law, along with a distinguished academic record, exceptional research, and writing skills, are essential. Experience in proceedings before the California Public Utilities Commission is a valuable attribute. Must be a current, active member of the California State Bar.

Compensation & Benefits

Within the Natural Resources Department, you can expect opportunities for growth within a collaborative and dynamic environment. Base compensation for this position is typically in the range of $300,000 – $800,000 annually, depending on the candidate’s book of business and experience. Additional performance‑based bonuses and profit‑sharing opportunities may also be available.

We are open to candidates outside the Sacramento and San Francisco areas and offer a relocation bonus to help with the transition. The firm also provides a comprehensive benefits package. At Downey Brand, we understand the importance of a balanced professional and personal life. We offer a hybrid work environment with flexibility to work remotely part of the time, ensuring you can excel in your role while maintaining personal well‑being.

Why Downey Brand?

Joining Downey Brand means becoming part of a dynamic and highly respected firm with one of the largest Natural Resources practices in the state. Our attorneys counsel clients on critical compliance strategies and regularly handle some of the most complex disputes in the west. You will have the opportunity to work with top professionals in the field, gain exposure to a wide variety of legal matters, and contribute to shaping the future of environmental law – in an environment where all team members feel valued and empowered to do their best work.

Confidential Inquiry Process

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to an outstanding practice, we invite you to contact Janlynn Fleener, Managing Partner, or Scott Shapiro, Natural Resources Department Chair, at View phone number on apply.placed-app.com. You may also send a message to them jointly here.

Downey Brand LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All inquiries will be kept confidential.

Apply Email: View email address on apply.placed-app.com