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Washington, D.C. - Jenner & Block LLP has made a strategic addition to its legal roster, welcoming an accomplished litigator, Will Barksdale, who brings over a decade of experience handling cases involving the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This announcement highlights Jenner & Block's dedication to expanding its energy practice and signifies the firm's fourth addition in this field in the past year.

Barksdale's legal journey brings him to Jenner & Block from Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom LLP, where he has spent the last 15 years honing his skills and expertise in energy law. His practice has a particular focus on representing clients entangled in FERC investigations and enforcement actions, addressing anti-manipulation rule violations and various alleged infractions.

Beyond this, Barksdale provides invaluable guidance on duty of candor rule matters, regional transmission organization, and independent system operator tariffs. He is a seasoned hand in administrative litigation matters before FERC and extends his services in advising clients on a multitude of agency-related issues, ranging from responding to agency orders to compliance with agency regulations and market rules.

Moreover, Barksdale is well-versed in representing clients when dealing with inquiries, investigations, and business litigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission. His impressive track record and comprehensive knowledge in this domain render him an invaluable asset.

Barksdale's addition to the Jenner & Block energy practice complements the firm's efforts to strengthen this area. Recent recruits like John Estes, who arrived from Skadden last October, and Anand Viswananthan and Niqui Kohli have contributed to the firm's growing team in the energy sector.

John Estes, in a statement, praised Barksdale's addition to the practice, highlighting his depth of experience and knowledge of the energy industry, making him a valuable asset for clients.

A graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law, Barksdale has previous experience as a law clerk at the U.S. Department of State, which has added to his legal acumen. His journey with Skadden began shortly after law school, and it was there that he started building his impressive career.

In addition to his professional work, Barksdale has also dedicated time to pro bono work. He has been involved in representing clients in affirmative and defensive asylum claims in the U.S., along with various immigration-related matters.

In a statement provided to Law360 Pulse, Barksdale expressed his excitement about joining Jenner & Block's growing practice. He noted the firm's esteemed reputation in the energy regulatory field as a motivating factor for his transition.

Barksdale's interest in energy law ignited in 2013 when FERC began pursuing civil penalty actions in federal district courts with its expanded authority under EPAct2005. He described this area of law as being incredibly important, complex, and challenging, stating, "I love it."

The satisfaction of helping clients find innovative solutions to intricate problems has always been one of Barksdale's favorite aspects of his work. He looks forward to continuing this practice at Jenner & Block.

Randy Mehrberg, Jenner's energy practice co-managing partner, lauded Barksdale's extensive experience in FERC litigation, investigations, and enforcement actions, emphasizing the added value he brings to the firm's clients. As the energy industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, Jenner & Block remains committed to growing its practice to deliver the strategic counsel sought by its clients.