Pillsbury counsel Brendan Hennessey is a tireless advocate who uses his government and private sector experience to help clients navigate complex risks and resolve disputes in the construction, infrastructure and energy sectors.

Brendan has considerable experience advising clients on large projects, such as highways, bridges, power plants, commercial and governmental buildings and industrial contamination cleanup sites. He has litigated construction project claims, environmental liabilities and government enforcement actions in administrative proceedings, state and federal court and alternative dispute resolution forums. Brendan also advises large manufacturing, oil and gas, nuclear energy and other industrial and commercial operators on arising disputes and regulatory compliance issues.

Representative Experience

  • Obtained a favorable settlement defending an architect in a complex construction and design defect suit brought by the owner of a leased federal building seeking $20 million from the architect, the architect’s parent company, and the contractor for water intrusion problems and future repairs.
  • Represented a power company defending against various claims and government enforcement actions related to operation of a nuclear power plant.
  • Represented construction companies in managing disputes with joint venture members, owners and subcontractors.

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  • Counseled a Fortune 200 energy company in the financing of the purchase of 22 solar power projects regarding the risks associated with utility contracts and project compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

Professional Highlights

  • Served as a policy and research adviser on the House of Representative Energy and Commerce Committee and as legislative assistant to Congressman Frank Pallone Jr.
  • Actively involved in pro bono work. Assisted in the drafting and advocacy of a congressional concurrent resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives urging state courts to prioritize family violence claims and risks to children in custody litigation. Also, works with the Legal Counsel for the Elderly in Washington, DC, through which he has had key wins in court.

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Honors & Awards

  • Recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch (published by BL Rankings LLC) for Environmental Law (2024)
  • Winner of the 2017 Law360/Burton Distinguished Legal Writing Awards

Education

  • J.D., Georgetown University Law Center, 2015
    Managing Editor, Georgetown Environmental Law Review

    B.A., The George Washington University, 2008
    magna cum laude, Elliott School of International Affairs Special Honors

Admissions

  • New York

    District of Columbia