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In Vault's Practice Area Resource Centers, among other things, we highlight Q&As from various attorneys employed at law firms who have ranked for prestige in the relevant practice area. In this series, we will highlight some answers from attorneys at ranked firms regarding what their typical day is like working in a given practice area. Today, we feature some answers from our Energy, Oil, & Gas Practice Area Resource Center.
Garrett Korbitz, Associate & Alex Miron, Counsel, Akin:
“Alex: There really is no typical day in our industry. While we may have tasks that we want to accomplish for that day, clients may have new matters that may need to be resolved quickly. Most days involve drafting documentation and coordinating with junior associates on various items while working with opposing counsel on finalizing a transaction.
Garrett: I would not say there is a “typical” day in the life of a transactional attorney. There are many factors that impact what your day, week, month, quarter, or even year will look
like, such as the market/economy, client needs, legislative and judicial developments, experience level, etc. However, currently, the tasks that I commonly perform include responding to client/partner requests; drafting and negotiation transaction agreements; communicating with clients, counterparties, and colleagues who are working on the deal; and general managerial tasks with respect to the deal.”
Catherine D. Little, Partner, Bracewell: “A “typical” day involves developing strategies for a client’s enforcement matter, which can include preparing for meetings with PHMSA, planning for a hearing, and identifying necessary research. This process often involves internal coordination calls with my team as well as external communications with the client. I also spend time analyzing new rules proposed by the agency and considering their potential impact on our client base. My day might include calls with clients to discuss new matters and provide counsel on managing compliance issues, as well as drafting written communications to address client requests for strategic and legal advice.”
Carl von Merz, Partner, Hunton: “A typical day would involve handling client calls or negotiations with counterparties throughout the day. These matters can range from an acquisition of a company engaged in offshore exploration and production to structuring an energy transition project like carbon capture. On the Hunton side, the calls would involve, in addition to myself, any necessary specialists, like tax or environmental specialists, and one or two associates. Revisions of documentation may follow—usually by a senior associate—which I would then review. We usually have one or two business development or thought leadership projects in process as well, so I will work on those too.”
Sara Douki & Domingo Rios Rivera, Associates, A&O Shearman:
“A typical day involves responding to client queries, drafting agreements or revising documents based on feedback from clients or partners, managing closings, and leading checklist and due diligence calls. We are both also heavily involved in law school recruitment and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, so our days can also include preparing for events such as workshops, networking sessions, and panels to attract and retain diverse talent.”
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