The Environment

Mateer Harbert represents clients with a regard to actions and advice under both federal and state environmental laws and regulations. As an example, the firm has represented clients in Federal Environmental Protection Agency enforcement actions involving the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and has also negotiated Consent Orders resulting in minimal liability to the clients.

The firm has represented clients who require advice with regard to pollution prevention, hazardous and solid waste generation and disposal, storage tank liability and stormwater rules and permits under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. The firm has also advised clients with regard to Federal Clear Air Act compliance.

Mateer Harbert is regularly involved in complex real estate transactions requiring advice regarding environmental provisions in sales contracts and leases, the conveyance of potentially contaminated property (both real and tangible) and environmental audits and assessments. The firm has extensive experience in dealing with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, both through the local district offices and the various sections and bureaus in Tallahassee.

The firm has also represented several landowners in condemnation cases whose property was discovered to contain contamination or require wetlands mitigation. Besides dealing with valuation questions which arose, the firm has successfully guided these clients through the administrative processes associated with clean up, particularly under the Florida Abandoned Tank Restoration Program (ATRP). The firm also provides advice regarding the effect of bankruptcy on environmental claims.

Steven R. Bechtel
Kurt E. Thalwitzer