Endangered Species Act

The Lee and Associates litigation team has a successful history representing industry, federal, state and local governments, tribes and private clients in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the United States.  Our attorneys have a depth of understanding and experience in the following areas:           

• Environmental and Natural Resource Law
• Tribal Law
• Contract Law
• Permitting and Land Use Law
• Professional Negligence

All members of the Lee and Associates litigation team have combined their expertise in law with a strong technical and scientific knowledge, giving them a unique cross-disciplinary understanding of the complex issues involved in today's legal world.   With this understanding in mind, Lee and Associates can bring settlements that are satisfactory to its clients, whether they are settled in or out of court.

Recent ESA Experience

Lead Attorney for Advice and Litigation Concerning Environmental Liabilities Associated with Real Estate Transaction. , Provided legal counsel for a national real estate firm for cost recovery under Federal and Washington State laws regulating contaminated soils and underground storage tanks.  The complexities of the case required expertise in real estate transactions, contract law, and environmental negligence. Prepared complaint for filing in state court and engaged in negotiations with multiple parties to resolve liability.

Litigation of Land-Use and Zoning Matters in California on Behalf of Development Company. Litigated with the city of Vallejo and Sonora County regarding the construction of multi-unit, low-income housing and questions involving non-conforming uses and abandonment of same. This involved extensive analysis of California land use law and the analysis of local ordinances and zoning codes.

Regional Solicitor of the Department of the Interior for the Pacific Southwest Region. Oversaw and coordinated the legal activities of the Department of Interior in California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii and the Trust Territories. Developed strategies for the successful implementation of the Department’s mandate by working with staff attorneys, federal, state and local officials and the public. Frequently dealt with representatives of the business community representing diverse business sectors in the Southwest Region, including California.