Skadden is pleased to announce that James Danly, a former commissioner, chairman and general counsel of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), has rejoined the firm as a partner and head of our Energy Regulatory Group. Mr. Danly will advise clients on federal and state regulatory proceedings, M&A transactions, policy issues and enforcement and litigation matters. Prior to joining FERC in 2017, Mr. Danly was an associate at Skadden. He is based in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office.
Mr. Danly served as a FERC commissioner from March 2020 to January 2024. In this role, he helped define the commission’s authority and responsibility for ensuring the adequacy of gas pipelines and liquified natural gas (LNG) infrastructure as the United States became the world’s largest LNG exporter. Mr. Danly also helped develop reforms designed to modernize the nation’s transmission system. He served as chairman of the commission from November 2020 to January 2021.
Prior to becoming a commissioner, Mr. Danly served as general counsel to FERC. In this role, he oversaw the preparation of draft orders, advised the chairman and other commissioners on pending cases and enforcement proceedings, directed the commission’s litigation strategies, and argued on behalf of the commission before federal courts of appeals.
“James is an exceptional lawyer. His track record as an excellent administrator while at FERC — combined with his skilled advancement of policy initiatives — has resulted in being recognized as a highly regarded leader in the U.S. energy industry,” said David Rievman, global head of the firm’s regulatory practices. “We are thrilled to welcome him back to Skadden and further expand our energy regulatory capabilities.”
Pankaj Sinha, head of Skadden’s Washington, D.C. M&A Group, said, “James’ deep knowledge of the energy industry, coupled with his recent senior-level government experience, will augment our market-leading energy transactions practice. He is an exciting addition to the team, and I am delighted to work alongside him again.”
According to Mr. Danly, “Skadden has an outstanding reputation in the energy industry. I am delighted to be returning and look forward to guiding clients as they navigate their most significant regulatory, litigation and transactional challenges.”
Mr. Danly began his legal career as an associate in Skadden’s Energy Regulatory Group, advising on a variety of regulatory issues, FERC enforcement cases and electricity market design matters. Prior to attending law school, Mr. Danly served two tours as an Army officer in Iraq, receiving a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Following his military service, he became managing director of the Institute for the Study of War, a military think tank in Washington, D.C. A graduate of Yale University, Mr. Danly earned his J.D. from Vanderbilt University Law School and clerked for Judge Danny J. Boggs of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals.