The 2023 Lawdragon 500 Leading Energy Lawyers

The 2023 Lawdragon 500 Leading U.S. Energy Lawyers is the inaugural edition of our reporting on the outstanding elite advisors to those who keep the lights on and the engines running for us all – whether by oil and gas, wind, water, nuclear, solar or mined energy.

These 500 lawyers bring remarkable achievements and backgrounds to their practice. More than a few started out as oil field workers while another was a naval nuclear submarine officer. They apply their knowledge to help old-school and new energy companies finance and build new power sources throughout the world, achieve transactions that help them grow and reach into new markets. They go to court to battle over responsibility for accidents and defend their corporate decisions. And, they work through government regulations, typically in Washington, D.C., that ensure safety for us all.

And, speaking of D.C., it brings us a wealth of world-class expertise in advising energy companies.

But nothing can touch Texas in this category. Far from a Lone Star state, it brings us 170 of the stellar lawyers recognized here. And, as those who follow firm rankings will note, this guide reflects the astounding battle still afoot for prized energy lawyers, with Kirkland & Ellis and Vinson & Elkins drawing even on their showing in this guide. They are among a vast array of talent that is representative of rich reservoirs that will keep the energy sector strong for decades to come.

We selected these lawyers through our long-honed process combining journalistic research, nominations and vetting by peers. We are an advocate for inclusion and this guide is 30 percent female and 15 percent inclusive.