Elam Michael

Within the "Nearby Lawyers" category, we feature legal professionals who offer specialized and impactful services to individuals and businesses. Today, we highlight Michael H. Elam, a distinguished attorney with over three decades of experience, located at the prestigious UBS Tower, 1 N Upper Wacker Dr #4400, Chicago, IL 60606, USA. Michael Elam is a Partner and Co-Chair of the Renewable Energy practice at Barnes & Thornburg, a prominent law firm, signaling his significant standing within the legal community and his firm's comprehensive capabilities.

The environment of Michael H. Elam's office, situated in the iconic UBS Tower on Upper Wacker Drive, is indicative of a high-level, sophisticated legal practice. This address places him in the heart of Chicago's bustling financial and legal district, known for its towering skyscrapers and corporate presence. Operating from a suite on the 44th floor suggests a well-appointed and professional office space, conducive to handling complex, high-stakes legal matters. This central location offers convenient access for national and international clients, reflecting the scope of his practice. The atmosphere of such an environment is one of expertise, efficiency, and a commitment to handling significant legal challenges, aligning perfectly with the specialized areas of law Michael Elam practices.

Michael H. Elam's legal services are highly specialized, primarily focusing on environmental, energy, infrastructure, and natural resource law. With more than three decades of experience in both the private and public sectors, he brings a unique depth of understanding to these complex and often evolving fields. His expertise includes structuring "creative agreements" and helping clients secure "approvals and financing for complex national and international agreements." This encompasses projects involving the development, remediation, and financing of environmentally challenged or controversial ventures, particularly those surrounding energy and sensitive water bodies or sources.

He represents businesses and other clients in complex projects and transactions, disputes, and litigation. His work is critical for companies navigating stringent environmental regulations, developing sustainable energy solutions, or undertaking large-scale infrastructure initiatives. Being co-chair of the firm's Renewable Energy group further solidifies his leadership and expertise in a rapidly growing and vital sector. This suggests he is at the forefront of legal developments related to solar, wind, and other clean energy projects, offering guidance on regulatory compliance, project finance, and transactional aspects.

Michael Elam is particularly known for his ability to help clients obtain "creative and cutting-edge agreements," especially in relation to infrastructure and energy-related international projects. This highlights a proactive and innovative approach to legal problem-solving, going beyond standard legal frameworks to find bespoke solutions for his clients. His deep experience extends to investigations, risk avoidance, risk allocation, and dispute resolution, where he employs a "chess vs. checkers approach" to clients' long-term goals. This strategic mindset is invaluable for clients facing intricate regulatory hurdles or potential legal challenges.

Furthermore, his effectiveness in working with federal, state, and international governments is a significant feature. He represents private sector clients seeking to secure approvals and financing for sensitive development projects or to resolve significant, complex claims. His past roles, including senior legal, managerial, and technical positions at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Region 5 office in Chicago and at its Washington, D.C., headquarters (where he was special assistant to the assistant administrator for enforcement), provide him with invaluable insight into regulatory processes and government operations. This background is a considerable advantage for clients needing to navigate complex environmental regulations and government interactions.

Michael Elam's credentials also include an education in international law from the Universite Libre de Bruxelles in Brussels, Belgium, which underpins his capability in international agreements and projects. He is admitted to practice in Illinois and Indiana, and in various federal courts, including the Indiana Supreme Court and multiple U.S. Courts of Appeals and District Courts. He is also a frequent speaker on environmental, energy, and natural resource law topics for public and private groups nationally and internationally, underscoring his thought leadership and commitment to sharing his expertise.

In terms of promotional information, Michael H. Elam's affiliation with Barnes & Thornburg, a respected national law firm, immediately lends credibility and indicates a high standard of legal service. His roles as partner and co-chair of a significant practice group within the firm are strong indicators of his professional standing. The detailed description of his extensive experience, specialized practice areas, and unique problem-solving approach serves as compelling promotional content, attracting clients with complex needs in environmental and energy sectors. The mention of his public and private sector experience, particularly his work with international governments, further broadens his appeal to global clients. The direct contact number, (312) 214-5630, provides easy access for potential clients to reach out for consultations.

While no specific client reviews were provided in the prompt, the breadth and depth of Michael Elam's professional profile, including his sustained presence in key legal organizations and his educational background, collectively act as a strong testament to his capabilities. For local users and international entities looking for a highly experienced and strategic legal partner in environmental, energy, infrastructure, and natural resource law, Michael H. Elam at Barnes & Thornburg represents a leading choice in Chicago, offering sophisticated legal solutions for complex challenges.