Hodgson Russ LLP Adds Former NYS Department of Environmental Conservation General Counsel to Its Growing Environmental & Energy Practices

Hodgson Russ LLP is pleased to announce that Thomas S. Berkman, former Deputy Commissioner and General Counsel of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), has joined the firm as a partner in its Environmental & Energy Practices.

Berkman’s addition significantly enhances the firm’s ability to advise clients on high-stakes environmental, energy, and land use matters. With 30 years of legal experience in both the public and private sectors, Berkman’s extensive institutional knowledge and sophisticated understanding of environmental law and policy offer clients a distinct strategic advantage in navigating the complexities of State and Federal regulatory landscapes. His addition also further buttresses the firm’s Public Authorities Practice, given his many years of working collaboratively with Federal and State partners.

During his time at the DEC, Berkman played a key role in shaping major environmental policies, including the drafting and implementation of New York’s landmark Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), the Environmental Justice Siting Law, and key revisions to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) regulations, amongst others. He also oversaw the development of numerous Environmental Impact Statements tied to significant legislative and regulatory initiatives. He worked closely with various bodies of the Federal and State governments to advance New York State priorities, gaining an in-depth understanding of legislative and regulatory processes. Berkman served as legal counsel for some of the largest developments in New York State, including the proposed Micron chip fab facility and the Mario Cuomo Bridge project.

"I am honored to join Hodgson Russ, a firm known for its excellence in environmental and energy law,” said Berkman. “I look forward to leveraging my experience to help clients anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and successfully navigate the complexities of today’s evolving regulatory landscape. My goal is to provide practical, forward-thinking solutions that support our clients’ missions while advancing environmental responsibility,” he added.

Of Berkman’s addition to the firm, Hodgson Russ Real Estate, Environment, Energy & Finance Practice Area Leader Michael Hecker said, "We are thrilled to welcome Tom to Hodgson Russ. His depth of experience, particularly at the highest levels of environmental and energy regulation in New York State, is a significant asset to our clients. Tom’s insight into the regulatory process, combined with his practical and goal-oriented approach, will greatly enhance our ability to guide clients through complex environmental and energy challenges with confidence and clarity."

Berkman joins the firm's team of attorneys who are well-known for their excellence in environmental and energy law, including recognition by Chambers & Partners in New York and Upstate New York.

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About Hodgson Russ LLP:

Hodgson Russ LLP is an Am Law 200, New York-based full-service law firm with more than 220 attorneys serving individuals, public companies, privately held businesses, governmental entities, and nonprofit institutions from its offices strategically placed in key markets along the east coast of the United States and Canada, from Toronto to Palm Beach, Florida. To learn more, visit www.hodgsonruss.com.