Best Natural Resources Lawyers in United States

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Strauss Troy
Covington, United States

Founded in 1953
65 people in their team
English
ABOUT OUR FIRMOnce you discover the difference, you will understand why our clients continue to depend on us.Whether you need a corporate lawyer, or an attorney to handle a real estate, litigation, tax, family law or criminal matter, we have the right professionals working together as a team to be...
Douglas Law Firm
Palatka, United States

21 people in their team
English
Douglas Law Firm is a full-service Florida law firm that represents clients throughout Putnam County, Clay County, St. Johns County, Duval County, and Flagler County. Our lawyers take pride in helping their neighbors in the local community navigate and resolve a wide range of legal issues with...
Liskow & Lewis
New Orleans, United States

Founded in 1935
200 people in their team
English
About LiskowOverviewHistoryDiversity, Equity & InclusionPro BonoCommunityAffiliationsLiskow & Lewis was founded in 1935 and includes nearly 140 lawyers in four offices, strategically located in New Orleans, Lafayette and Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Houston, Texas. Since its inception, the...
Verrill Dana LLP.
Portland, United States

Founded in 1862
213 people in their team
English
Decency, honesty, and judgment. The values that define Verrill as a law firm are the reason our clients trust and choose us time and time again. We don't compromise our values and our clients don't compromise on quality. Our experience and New England roots date back more than 150 years, and today,...
Abbott & Kindermann, Inc.
Sacramento, United States

Founded in 1996
8 people in their team
English
Abbott & Kindermann, Inc. provides a broad spectrum of legal services to private and public clients in all aspects of Land Use, Environmental, Real Estate, and Municipal Law. The firm is located in Sacramento and serves clients throughout the Northern and Central California region.  ...

Founded in 2008
11 people in their team
English
WelcomeFormed in 2008 by attorneys, each of whom have more than twenty years of experience and who have practiced together for almost all of that time, Ayres, Shelton, Williams, Benson & Paine, LLC owns the reputation of being comprised of members who are among Louisianaโ€™s leading business...
Gibson Watson Marino LLC
Wichita, United States

Founded in 1947
8 people in their team
English
A Legal Team Dedicated To The Wichita AreaGibson Watson Marino LLC was founded on the principles of dedication to our clients and the persistent pursuit of excellence in service. For decades our attorneys have helped families and businesses in our community find solutions to their legal problems....
Munson, Rowlett, Moore & Boone, P.A.
Little Rock, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
THE FIRMMunson, Rowlett, Moore & Breeding, P.A., was established in 1984.MRMB Law Firm is a boutique Arkansas law firm that specializes in civil litigation and appellate work.  The firm is selective in both its attorneys and its clients.  The firmโ€™s unwavering dedication to quality...
Radix Professional Services, LLC
Scottsdale, United States

Founded in 2008
50 people in their team
English
Our StoryRadix Law is the first multi-lawyer full service traditional law firm in the United States with a combination of lawyer and non-lawyer owners. More commonly known as an Alternative Business Structure, the Arizona Supreme Court approved Radix under this model which modernizes and...
Coppersmith Brockelman PLC
Phoenix, United States

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
English
At Coppersmith Brockelman, we believe that law firms have too many rules.  Here are ours:  Work at the highest level of our profession.  Think creatively and find practical solutions.  Do the right thing.  Maintain our sense of humor.  Build community - with clients,...
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About Natural Resources Law in the United States

Natural resources law in the United States encompasses the regulation and management of natural resources such as water, minerals, forests, wildlife, and public lands. This field of law is complex and involves various federal, state, and local regulations designed to manage resource use, conservation, and environmental protection. Key federal agencies such as the Department of the Interior and the Environmental Protection Agency play significant roles in shaping these laws, alongside state-specific agencies. Understanding the legal aspects of natural resources is essential for businesses, landowners, and organizations involved in extraction, conservation, or land development activities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Several situations may require legal help in the field of natural resources:

  • Land Use and Zoning: Legal assistance is needed to navigate zoning laws and land use regulations, which can impact property development and resource extraction.
  • Environmental Compliance: Ensuring compliance with complex environmental laws to avoid fines, sanctions, or legal disputes.
  • Resource Leasing and Contracts: Drafting and negotiating contracts for resource extraction, such as oil, gas, and minerals, often requires legal expertise.
  • Dispute Resolution: Resolving disputes over land ownership, resource rights, and environmental impacts typically involves legal proceedings.
  • Permitting Processes: Acquiring the necessary permits for activities like mining, drilling, or water use requires navigation of regulatory frameworks.

Local Laws Overview

Natural resources laws are subject to both federal and state-level regulations. Key aspects include:

  • Federal Regulations: These set nationwide standards for environmental protection, resource management, and land use. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act are examples of influential federal laws.
  • State Laws: Each state has its own set of laws governing natural resources, which may include additional protections or requirements. States manage water rights, mineral rights, and wildlife management.
  • Public Lands: The management of national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges is primarily governed by federal laws, but states may have additional regulations.
  • Private Rights: Property owners may have rights to natural resources on their land, subject to state and federal regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is natural resources law?

Natural resources law deals with the use, management, and conservation of natural resources like land, water, minerals, and wildlife. It involves multiple levels of policy and regulation aimed at maintaining sustainable practices and protecting the environment.

What government agencies oversee natural resources regulations?

Key agencies include the U.S. Department of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state-level environmental and natural resources departments, and local zoning and land use boards.

How do I obtain a permit for resource extraction?

Obtaining permits involves applying to the relevant government agencies, which may include federal, state, and local authorities. The process requires detailed environmental impact assessments and compliance with regulatory standards.

What are mineral rights?

Mineral rights are the legal rights to explore, extract, and sell minerals located below the surface of a property. These rights can be separate from land ownership and must be obtained to legally extract minerals.

How are water rights governed in the United States?

Water rights are subject to complex legal frameworks that vary by state and may be based on riparian rights or prior appropriation. Water rights determine access to and use of water resources for individuals and businesses.

What legal issues are common in natural resource disputes?

Common legal issues include disputes over land ownership, resource rights, environmental contamination, regulatory compliance, and the impact of activities on public lands and wildlife.

Can I develop land located near protected areas?

Development near protected areas is subject to strict regulations to preserve natural habitats and biodiversity. These regulations are enforced by federal, state, and local agencies, requiring legal navigation and permits.

What role do environmental impact assessments play?

Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are critical in evaluating the potential environmental effects of proposed activities. They are a requisite part of the permitting process for major projects and are meant to prevent ecological harm.

Are there laws protecting endangered species?

The Endangered Species Act is a key federal law providing protections for threatened and endangered plants and animals and their habitats. Compliance with this law is necessary for many land use and development projects.

How do conservation easements work?

Conservation easements are legal agreements that restrict land use to protect its conservation values. They ensure long-term preservation by limiting development and often involve a trust or governmental organization.

Additional Resources

For further assistance and information on natural resources, consider the following resources:

  • U.S. Department of the Interior
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • Bureau of Land Management
  • State Environmental Agencies
  • National Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
  • Local Land Trusts and Conservation Organizations

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with natural resources issues, consider taking the following steps:

  • Consult with a specialized attorney: Look for an attorney with experience in natural resources law to obtain tailored legal advice and representation.
  • Research local laws: Familiarize yourself with applicable federal and state laws regarding your specific issue to better understand your legal standing.
  • Contact relevant agencies: Reach out to pertinent government agencies to obtain necessary information and guidance regarding permits, compliance, and regulations.
  • Attend workshops or seminars: Participate in educational events that focus on natural resources management and legal considerations to stay informed.

Understanding the legal landscape and seeking professional advice will better equip you to address and navigate natural resources-related legal challenges.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in United States through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Natural Resources, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.