Lea Phillips Named Leader of Ballard Spahr's Environment and Natural Resources Group

Lea A. Phillips has been appointed to lead Ballard Spahr’s Environment and Natural Resources Group, a team of 25 attorneys across the country who provide regulatory, transactional, and litigation support to clients as they address environmental challenges; develop or realign projects; maintain regulatory compliance; navigate local, state, and federal government enforcement actions; and resolve issues involving existing or historical contamination liabilities.

“The environment and natural resources sector may be heading into a time of significant change,” Lea said. “During President Trump’s first administration, we saw considerable changes to environmental and energy policies at the federal level. This led to many states stepping in with disparate regulations to fill the gaps left by federal agencies. The first few weeks of President Trump’s second term indicate a similar trend, and we will help our clients navigate the changing landscape.”

Lea is based in Phoenix, along with four other Environment and Natural Resources attorneys, including Phoenix Office Managing Partner David J. Armstrong. The Environment and Natural Resources Group recently added attorneys in Anchorage, Seattle, and Portland thanks to Ballard Spahr’s January 1, 2025, combination with Lane Powell.

“Our new Environment and Natural Resources attorneys have joined the firm at an exciting time of change and growth,” Lea said.  “We’re now a fully national practice, with capabilities on both coasts and everywhere in between.”

As Environment and Natural Resources Group Practice Leader, Lea follows Harry Weiss, the Philadelphia-based Litigation partner who led the group for nine years and remains an active member.

For media inquiries, please contact Will Ashenmacher at 612.371.5792.