Phelps Dunbar LLP announces that Patrick A. Talley, Jr. has joined the firm’s New Orleans office as a partner. Formerly with Frilot L.L.C. where he was a partner and practice section leader, Mr. Talley brings more than 25 years of experience in railroad, energy and environmental law as well as commercial litigation to his practice at Phelps Dunbar.
“I’m pleased to welcome Pat to Phelps Dunbar,” Michael D. Hunt, Firm Managing Partner, said. “The energy and transportation industries are drivers of economic growth in the Gulf region and Phelps Dunbar has a group of specialized professionals serving clients in these industries. Pat’s expertise in environmental and railroad claims make him a perfect complement to our team.”
Mr. Talley counts three Class I and two Short Line railroads among his transportation-industry clients, which he has successfully represented in matters involving cargo and freight claims, crossing litigation, and employee personal injury and death (F.E.L.A.). He also serves on the executive committee of the National Association of Railroad Trial Counsel.
In the energy and environmental sector, Mr. Talley represents and defends companies in toxic tort and exposure claims and litigation. He also served on the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) Environmental Task Force following Hurricane Katrina.
“I am happy to bring my practice to Phelps Dunbar, a firm with an outstanding history and reputation in Louisiana and a growing prominence in the Southeast,” Mr. Talley said. “Our priorities are the same – to deliver excellent legal services to our clients.”
Mr. Talley received his LL.M. in Energy and Environmental Law from Tulane University Law School and his J.D. from Louisiana State University Law Center. He has been recognized locally and nationally for his excellence in law. He received the “AV” rating from the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory, which is the highest possible rating for legal ability and ethical standards, and is listed in The Best Lawyers in America. Closer to home, Mr. Talley has been recognized by Louisiana Super Lawyers and has been named a “Leader in Law” by New Orleans City Business.
Mr. Talley is also involved on the civic level, volunteering with numerous community nonprofits. He has served as a member and vice-president of the New Orleans Charter Schools Foundation Board of Directors, and a member of the executive boards of the Boy Scouts of America, Southeast Louisiana Council and the Carrollton Booster Club as well as international president of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. He also serves as a member of the board of trustees of St. George’s Episcopal School and Academy of the Sacred Heart, where he serves as president.
