Legal practice in the energy industry involves economic, scientific, and engineering issues in a regulatory context. For instance, energy lawyers may work with companies and public utilities to handle the taxation of energy (such as "extraction taxes"), to procure licenses and ownership rights for energy-rich land, and adjudication regarding these energy rights. It is highly unlikely that consumers would consult with energy attorneys.
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Common Work of Energy Attorneys
Energy law attorneys specialize in the energy business and work with power companies, municipal utilities, and all manner of energy producers. Much of their work involves compliance, or making sure energy companies and other involved parties are following the proper laws and regulations. Since energy extraction can be quite dangerous and potentially harmful to the environment, there are numerous safety and environmental regulations.
Additionally, energy lawyers may help energy companies secure financing and develop new projects. Energy discovery and extraction requires massive amounts of capital and often crosses international borders. Energy law attorneys also represent companies involved in litigation or arbitration.
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