Steptoe LLP advises both oil and natural gas pipeline companies on complex regulatory and litigation matters in addition to handling matters related to transactions, project development, pipeline safety, and FERC enforcement issues. Daniel Poynor, who heads the Washington DC-based practice, acts for pipeline companies in litigation proceedings as well as on ratemaking matters and pipeline expansion projects. Daniel Mullen supports clients with energy and commodities enforcement matters, government investigations, and litigation, as well as with the development of regulatory compliance programs. Steven Brose regularly handles compliance and transactional matters, while Steven Reed advises on new pipeline projects and the corresponding regulatory processes in addition to resolving disputes arising before the FERC, state regulatory agencies, and appellate courts. Joshua Runyan advises clients with respect to the construction, operation, and maintenance of major energy projects. The firm welcomed Lorrie Marcil from Sidley Austin LLP in January 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Depth breadth of experience in oil pipeline regulation is outstanding. Excellent written product.’

  • ‘Steven Brose, Steven Reed, Daniel Poynor and Lorrie Marcil are excellent lawyers on oil pipeline regulation. Very seasoned and unmatched level of experience.’

Key clients

  • Colonial Pipeline Company
  • Enbridge Energy, Limited Partnership
  • Liquid Energy Pipeline Association
  • ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc.
  • Northern Natural Gas Company
  • Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.
  • Magellan Midstream Partners

Work highlights

  • Advised Colonial in relation to a series of complaints, which were filed with FERC, challenging all of its rates, including its market-based rates and market-based ratemaking authority, as well as its indexed rates.
  • Advised Enbridge in connection with the State of Michigan’s attempt to shut down the portion of Line 5 that runs under the Straights of Mackinac and related litigation.
  • Acted for Northern Natural Gas in an administrative hearing to increase its transportation rates.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Daniel Poynor

Other key lawyers

Daniel Mullen, Steven Brose, Steven Reed, Shaun Boedicker, Joshua Runyan, Lorrie Marcil