Environmental Litigation
Overview
Catunao Law PLLC represents clients in environmental and natural resources disputes before Washington state and federal courts, administrative tribunals, and in mediation and other alternative dispute resolution proceedings. The Firm works closely with clients to develop practical, cost-conscious strategies that align with their objectives, risk tolerance, and long-term business interests. When litigation becomes necessary, the Firm brings experience across the full dispute lifecycle, from record development and early case assessment through discovery, dispositive motions, trial preparation, and settlement negotiations.
Experience
Prior Experience Includes:
- Served as Special Assistant Attorney General representing a Washington state agency in litigation involving State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) challenges, state constitutional claims, and alleged breaches of fiduciary duty arising from natural resources and environmental matters. Managed discovery involving a 1.2 million-document administrative record and drafted dispositive motions and subpoenas.
Represented a state agency before the Washington Pollution Control Hearings Board (PCHB) in more than a dozen environmental enforcement actions involving alleged water pollution violations under the Clean Water Act (CWA), Washington Water Pollution Control Act, and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. Handled prehearing proceedings, motions practice, and settlement negotiations.
Co-represented a seafood processor before the PCHB in a civil penalty appeal involving alleged violations of the CWA and NPDES permit conditions.
Co-represented a client in a forest practices classification appeal before the PCHB, including drafting notices, pleadings, and motions.
Co-represented the Government of Guam in federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) litigation involving contamination at a former military site, including participation in multiparty mediation and settlement negotiations.
Co-represented clients in federal district court litigation arising under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Administrative Procedure Act (APA).
Represented a state agency before the Washington Shorelines Hearings Board (SHB) in a shoreline variance permit appeal involving development on Lake Tapps. Handled prehearing proceedings, motions practice, and settlement negotiations through resolution.
Assisted in representing a client before the SHB in a Shoreline Management Act (SMA) compliance and shoreline easement dispute, including prehearing proceedings and motions in limine.
Co-represented a state agency in litigation challenging Ecology’s Clean Air Rule, including constitutional and statutory claims concerning Washington’s greenhouse gas emissions regulations.
Facing an Environmental Dispute?
Environmental litigation moves fast, and the stakes are high. Whether you are responding to an enforcement action, challenging an agency decision, or managing a complex environmental dispute, Catunao Law is ready to help you assess your options, build your case, and represent you.