Maryland Environmental Litigation Lawyer

There is no doubt that humans, especially those in a modernized and industrialized society, have an impact on the natural world. Throughout the nation and across the globe, our awareness of the effects of human progress and industry has made us re-analyze the obligations and responsibilities associated with the use of hazardous materials.

In the United States, organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) exist specifically to govern the relationship between man and nature. The goals of the EPA, in addition to environmental law, largely revolve around the health and safety of the public and of those who may be affected or harmed by the environmental repercussions of businesses, large industries, and harmful materials.

When faced with legal challenges stemming from environmental issues, securing the services of an experienced environmental litigation lawyer is crucial. These professionals are knowledgeable in regulations, advocating for your rights and holding accountable those responsible for environmental harm.

At Peter Angelos Law, our team of Maryland environmental litigation lawyers has proven our skills and abilities in litigating environmental cases. Those who have been exposed to hazardous materials, gases or hazardous conditions – whether as residents of the area or local business owners – are encouraged to reach out to our firm to learn more about recovering compensation and how our firm can help.

Choose Peter Angelos Law for effective representation and a commitment to environmental protection. Your legal battle becomes an opportunity to advocate for both your rights and the health of our environment, call us today at 410-216-0009 for a free consultation.

Our Environmental Litigation Knowledge And Experience

At Peter Angelos Law, our environmental litigation practice is not just about representing clients – it’s about making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by environmental harm. Our team of environmental lawyers has extensive experience handling a wide range of environmental cases.

Environmental Litigation Cases We Handle

• Groundwater contamination
• Toxic chemical leaks/spills
• Hazardous waste
• Gas explosions
• Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) exposure
• Oil spills
• Camp Lejeune Water Contamination (PERC, TCE, Benzene, Vinyl Chloride)

Our success in environmental lawsuits is bolstered by our ability to develop a comprehensive case theory that is firmly grounded in the scientific and technical specifics of the environmental issue being litigated.

We are not just law practitioners; we are part of the community, making notable contributions to various educational and medical institutions in Maryland to support environmental and legal education initiatives.

Groundwater Contamination

Groundwater contamination is one of the challenging areas in our environmental litigation practice. We stand with victims, comprehending the difficulties of class action defenses and disputes over class certification that such cases often entail.

Groundwater contamination litigation can involve challenging individualized issues, requiring a keen understanding of federal court procedures and class action regulations. Our attorneys are equipped to counter defenses based on the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 (CAFA) for removal to federal court.

Toxic Chemical Leaks/Spills

Our representation of clients affected by toxic chemical leaks or spills further underlines our commitment to environmental justice and compliance with the Toxic Substances Control Act. Our legal strategies for these cases aim at ensuring employers take responsibility for safe working environments to prevent toxic exposure.

We conduct thorough investigations into large oil and gas companies responsible for chemical spills that have injured or killed workers and affected communities. We represent clients in cases where companies are challenged to take responsibility for their negligence that has resulted in health issues, including headaches and nausea, due to chemical leaks.

Hazardous Waste

Our firm adeptly handles the notorious complexities of hazardous waste cases, which involve federal statutes like the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). These laws demand strict compliance. Settlements in hazardous waste exposure cases often involve substantial environmental remediation efforts, focusing on cost recovery actions for expenses related to preventive measures and environmental consultation.

At Peter Angelos Law, we handle hazardous waste cases, advocate for clients affected by exposure and pursue environmental justice through the legal system.

Gas Explosions

We constantly address another environmental risk – gas explosions. Our firm represents victims of such incidents, holding the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. We understand the devastation that gas explosions can cause, and our attorneys are committed to ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve. This includes not only monetary damages for injuries and property damage but also compensation for emotional distress and other noneconomic damages.

Our dedication to justice in such cases is unwavering, and we work tirelessly to secure favorable outcomes for our clients.

Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) Exposure

Exposure to Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) can lead to severe consequences, including serious health issues. Our firm is experienced in representing victims of MTBE exposure, seeking compensation for the harm caused by this harmful chemical. We understand the differences between such cases and the scientific evidence needed to prove liability. Our attorneys have the knowledge and skills for these complex cases, ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

We are committed to holding responsible parties accountable and advocating for the rights of those affected by MTBE exposure.

Oil Spills

Handling cases of oil spills, a frequent environmental hazard causing extensive harm to marine life and human health is something our lawyers are adept at. We understand the devastating impact of oil spills on local communities and ecosystems, and we are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.

We provide robust representation for victims of oil spills, ensuring they receive compensation for environmental harm and personal injuries. Our comprehensive approach enables us to fight for the rights of our clients and the restoration of their environment.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination (PERC, TCE, Benzene, Vinyl Chloride)

We represent victims affected by the harmful chemicals in the water supply, pushing for justice and compensation for those affected. This case highlights our commitment to going above and beyond to ensure that victims receive the justice they deserve.

Our legal team tirelessly works on these cases, guided by our mission to stand up for the rights of victims of environmental harm.

The Role Of The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

We recognize the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) central role in environmental litigation. The EPA not only ensures public health and safety but also enforces environmental laws, making it a significant figure in environmental litigation cases. We work closely with the EPA, leveraging the agency’s functions and enforcement actions to ensure the protection of our clients’ rights in environmental litigation.

Our collaborative approach with the EPA underscores our commitment to upholding the highest standards of environmental protection, including compliance with the Clean Air Act.

EPA Regulations And Compliance

Our environmental litigation practice critically involves navigating EPA regulations and compliance obligations. The EPA has the authority to address environmental justice concerns in its regulatory activities, which forms a foundation for compliance obligations. We understand the importance of focusing on:

• Public health
• Cumulative impacts
• Social costs
• Welfare impacts

In Maryland, environmental litigation cases often hinge on compliance with the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and the Chesapeake Bay Program, particularly when it comes to protecting vulnerable aquatic life and addressing risks to the watershed.

Our team of seasoned environmental lawyers is well-versed in the nuances of these regional environmental concerns, ensuring that our clients adhere to all pertinent regulations and safeguard their interests.

Working With The EPA

Our approach to environmental litigation involves:

• Working hand-in-hand with the EPA to address environmental and public health issues.
• Collaborating with the agency to ensure our clients’ rights are upheld during litigation.
• Assisting communities in addressing environmental justice concerns by working in partnership with the EPA.

Our team utilizes resources like the EPA’s Compliance Advisor program to help clients meet environmental regulatory standards. We leverage the experience of regional and headquarters environmental justice coordinators at the EPA to navigate the intricacies of environmental regulations and policies for our clients.

Environmental Laws And Regulations

In environmental litigation, it is paramount to understand the environmental laws and regulations in both state and federal courts. Federal environmental laws treat the U.S. government and private entities equally, provided sovereign immunity is explicitly waived within those statutes. States have the power to enact environmental standards that are equally or more stringent than federal laws, providing room for additional local regulation.

As experienced environmental attorneys, we understand these intricacies and work with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and protect our clients’ goals and wishes.

Federal and State Laws

A significant aspect of our practice is handling the differences between federal and state environmental laws, as well as understanding the implications of the National Historic Preservation Act. States can develop and enforce their own environmental laws, which may be more stringent than federal requirements. States and tribes with delegated federal program authority can administer their own programs, enforcing them as the primary responsible parties.

Our firm’s experience with understanding these differences ensures our clients are compliant with both federal and state regulations, protecting their interests and promoting environmental justice.

Regulatory Agencies

Knowing the specific environmental regulations and policies, including the National Environmental Policy Act, is pivotal to working with various regulatory agencies, such as the EPA. The EPA establishes National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives (NECI) that focus on environmental justice, impacting the litigation process. Each state in the U.S. operates its own environmental regulatory agency responsible for the development and enforcement of unique environmental regulations.

Strategies For Success In Environmental Litigation

To achieve success in environmental litigation, we at Peter Angelos Law employ strategic approaches, including:

• Crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with judges and juries.
• Strategic use of pretrial motions to streamline the case for trial.
• Settlement strategies encompass a long-term perspective, looking beyond immediate compensation to future monitoring and remediation.

Our firm’s track record showcases significant experience and knowledge in both the intricacies of trial advocacy and the nuances of negotiation and settlement. We maintain a balance between rigorous courtroom representation and securing favorable settlements, understanding the importance of both approaches in environmental litigation.

Negotiation and Settlement

To achieve favorable settlements in environmental cases, our firm utilizes the following methods:

• Alternative dispute resolution methods
• Proactive communication
• Mediation to negotiate settlements
• Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of cases to set realistic settlement goals
• Leveraging the threat of high litigation costs and negative publicity as negotiation tools

Proactive communication and a cooperative relationship with the opposing party can result in more productive settlement negotiations. Our approach ensures that settlements not only compensate victims for their immediate losses but also provide for future monitoring and remediation, ensuring a comprehensive resolution to environmental harm.

Trial Advocacy

Our skilled trial advocacy also testifies to our success in environmental litigation. We excel in presenting complex scientific evidence clearly and persuasively. Our attorneys effectively distill intricate environmental data and regulations into persuasive, understandable arguments.

We understand the power of storytelling in the courtroom, especially in conveying technical and environmental litigation details. Our attorneys are adept at examining and cross-examining expert witnesses on technical environmental matters. We are prepared to address and challenge the admissibility of scientific evidence under the rules of evidence, including standards such as Daubert.

All these elements of our trial advocacy ensure the effective presentation of our clients’ cases and the attainment of justice.

Protecting Your Rights As A Victim

We at Peter Angelos Law are committed to protecting the rights of victims of environmental harm. We believe that victims should be informed of their rights in seeking redress and the availability of free legal mechanisms such as case evaluations. Our legal team assists victims in identifying the appropriate legal avenues to address the environmental injustices they have faced. We treat victims with compassion and respect, providing them with access to justice and prompt redress for the harm suffered.

We put mechanisms in place to minimize inconvenience, protect privacy, and ensure the safety of victims and their families, preventing intimidation and retaliation.

Free Case Evaluation

For victims of environmental harm, we provide free case evaluations. This crucial step helps victims understand their legal rights and options.

Victims receive essential information regarding the scope, timing and potential progress of their environmental lawsuit during the evaluation.

Recovering Compensation

Seeking compensation for victims of environmental harm is a commitment for our firm. Victims can seek two main types of compensation: environmental compensation for the restoration of damaged areas, and monetary compensation.

When determining the scale of compensation for environmental harm, we consider achieving a balance between equity and efficiency, taking into account the characteristics of the affected population. In chemical spill incidents, affected workers or their families may be entitled to compensation from the responsible companies, including medical costs and lost income.

Proven Skills and Abilities

With substantial settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients, our firm has a proven track record of success in environmental litigation. One of the largest settlements achieved by our firm was a $4.5 billion settlement against the tobacco industry, reflecting our proficiency in managing complex legal challenges.

Contact Us For Environmental Litigation Representation

In the pursuit of justice for victims, we extend an invitation to explore and understand your legal rights. If you find yourself in need of support and guidance, we encourage you to take the first step by scheduling a free case evaluation. By calling 410-216-0009, you can connect with a dedicated member of our legal team at Peter Angelos Law. This initial consultation is an opportunity to delve into the specifics of your situation and learn more about how we can be your staunch advocates in the pursuit of environmental justice and protection.

At Peter Angelos Law, we are committed to standing by your side, providing experience and navigating the complexities of your case. Your journey toward justice begins with a simple call. Trust us to champion your cause and work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are upheld. Let us be the advocates who tirelessly pursue the environmental justice you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is litigation in environmental law?

Litigation in environmental law involves using the judicial branch to enforce environmental policy, and there are three typical kinds of court cases involving environmental laws.

What types of environmental litigation cases does Peter Angelos Law handle?

Peter Angelos Law handles a wide variety of environmental cases, such as groundwater contamination, toxic chemical leaks, hazardous waste and oil spills. They also address issues like Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) exposure and the Camp Lejeune water contamination incidents.

How does Peter Angelos Law approach class action lawsuits in environmental litigation?

In environmental class action lawsuits, Peter Angelos Law takes a meticulous approach by thoroughly understanding the collective impact of environmental harm on the class members. Our firm works to ensure that all procedural requirements are met for class certification and utilizes our significant knowledge of environmental law to build a strong, unified case. By doing so, we aim to achieve a resolution that accounts for the broad range of damages suffered by the class as a whole.

Can individuals seek environmental litigation for personal harm?

Yes, individuals can seek environmental litigation if they have been personally harmed due to environmental negligence or misconduct. Peter Angelos Law represents individuals who have suffered health issues, property damage or other losses due to environmental factors. Our firm assists these individuals in filing personal lawsuits, aiming to secure compensation for their damages and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.

How does Peter Angelos Law determine the value of an environmental damage claim?

Determining the value of an environmental damage claim involves a comprehensive assessment of the extent of damage and its impact on the claimant’s health, property, and quality of life. Peter Angelos Law evaluates factors such as the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, property devaluation, and the cost of environmental cleanup and restoration. Our experienced attorneys work with environmental experts to quantify these damages accurately and seek appropriate compensation for our clients.