Chris joined Pierce Atwood's Litigation Group in 1996 after clerking for the Maine Supreme Judicial Court. Whether providing guidance and strategic direction on nuclear decommissioning financing models, rate regulation or commercial transactions, Chris focuses on developing a detailed and intimate understanding of his clients and their businesses to ensure the right goals are identified and then achieved.
As the partner in charge of the firm's Counsel and Associates Committee, Chris brings that same level of intense commitment to developing the next generation of attorneys that will carry on Pierce Atwood's culture of client-focused excellence.
Recent Experience
Representative Energy Related Matters
- Lead counsel representing nuclear power plant owner through litigated proceedings to determine the multi-billion dollar cost and financing to decommission Seabrook Nuclear Power Station. Develop financing and cost case strategies working with nuclear, econometric and finance experts.
- Lead counsel to regulated utility in defending million dollar claim for damages resulting from re-energizing power lines during a severe winter storm. Strategic use of immunity defense resulted in settlement of the claim.
Representative Regulatory Litigation Matters
- Lead counsel defending management and agents in regulatory enforcement matters brought by Maine Bureau of Insurance and Maine Office of Securities. While most are resolved through negotiation, Chris also has significant experience managing these matters through trial and appeal, if necessary.
- Lead counsel on appeal to the Maine Supreme Judicial Court on issue of whether regulated rates require a fair and reasonable rate of return and the absence of such violates Maine law and constitutes an impermissible taking.
- Extensive experience as counsel to multiple carriers in rate-setting proceedings before Maine Bureau of Insurance. Detailed knowledge of actuarial and financial aspects of regulated rates.
- Lead counsel to health insurance client concerning hospital acquisition activities and potential antitrust implications under Maine and federal law.