Schwabe is excited to announce Lawson Fite is joining Schwabe’s Natural Resources industry group in Portland, adding considerable capabilities in environmental law to Schwabe’s deep industry bench.

“Lawson’s deep experience advising clients on regulatory and litigation matters before administrative tribunals, state, and federal courts makes him an invaluable addition to our Natural Resources industry group. We are thrilled he is joining the Schwabe team,” shared Ryen Godwin, Schwabe Natural Resources Industry Group Leader.

For over 15 years, Lawson has supported clients in the natural resource and energy sectors as they manage the complexities of environmental regulation, compliance, and permitting, as well as related litigation. He has significant experience helping clients navigate the legal intricacies required in renewable energy development, forestland management, and endangered species and public lands concerns. His clients include resource owners, developers, and associations who pursue responsible use of these resources.

A seasoned litigator, Lawson has argued numerous cases in state and federal trial and appellate courts, including ten cases before the Ninth Circuit. He has also testified before Congress on matters concerning proposed reforms to resource management, the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

He began his legal career at the U.S. Department of Justice working on endangered species and wildlife matters. He also spent a year as a law clerk for the Honorable Justice Walter L. Carpeneti of the Alaska Supreme Court.

Lawson graduated from Harvard Law School with his Juris Doctor degree and received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Science & Public Policy, ‎cum laude, from Harvard University.