Molly Cagle, who represents clients on a wide array of major environmental issues before government agencies and in federal and state courts, has joined Baker Botts L.L.P. as a partner in the firm’s Austin office.
Cagle is one of the country’s leading environmental lawyers, particularly with respect to water issues. She has been lead counsel in high-profile lawsuits ranging from power plant discharges and water rights disputes between states to water rights permitting and key legislation in Texas affecting water laws.
During the past decade, Cagle’s work on behalf of clients earned her recognition from Chambers USA as one of “America’s Leading Lawyers for Business” in environmental law. Chambers editors described her as a “renaissance lawyer, a true litigator” whose clients praise her “effectiveness” and “top-notch negotiation skills.”
In the enforcement area, Cagle litigates and negotiates settlements for clients under the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and their state analogs, as well as the Superfund statute. She counsels clients on audit issues, under both the state audit law and federal policy.
“Adding Molly’s renowned litigation and negotiation skills continues our commitment to providing world-class environmental legal services to our clients throughout the firm,” said Baker Botts Managing Partner Andrew M. Baker.
Cagle’s practice includes permitting work before the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (and its predecessor agencies), the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, the Railroad Commission of Texas and corresponding agencies in other states. With regard to air and solid waste, she handles a variety of contested cases, including air and hazardous waste permitting for boilers, incinerators, furnaces and underground injection control wells. She represents clients in State Implementation Plan issues as well.
On the state and federal level, Cagle assists clients in rulemaking petitions and in preparing comments on agency rules. She assists clients in challenging environmental legislation and rules.
“Molly’s unparalleled experience in resolving disputes over natural resources is a significant addition to our environmental practice,” said Steve Leifer, Chair of the Environmental Department at Baker Botts. “Molly’s proven track record of helping clients meet their most significant environmental challenges will enhance Baker Botts’ environmental profile both in Texas and throughout the country.”
Prior to joining Baker Botts, Cagle was a partner at Vinson & Elkins. She earned her law degree (with honors) from The University of Texas School of Law. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree (magna cum laude) from Texas Tech University.
