Jim Walsh

Jim Walsh HeadshotJim Walsh

Partner

Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLC

Jim Walsh’s practice focuses on government relations and regulatory compliance matters in the areas of environmental regulation, government contracting, energy, financial services, labor, economic development, consumer protection, higher education and lobbying compliance. Jim joined Manatt in 2008 after serving more than a decade in high-level positions in New York State government.

Jim is a former Senior Assistant Counsel to the Governor of New York State and was responsible for advising the Governor and Senior Staff on legal issues and legislation. Among many accomplishments, he helped negotiate the landmark 2003 State Superfund/Brownfield law and laws establishing fiscal oversight boards for the City of Buffalo and Erie County.

Prior to serving as a counsel to the Governor, Jim served as the Legislative Counsel to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation,advising the Commissioner and Senior Staff on legislative matters and developing and negotiating legislation related to air and water permitting, power plant sitting, land use, waste management, mining and natural gas well permits and pesticide application requirements, among many other issues.

Jim began his career as an Assistant Counsel to the New York State Senate Majority Leader representing the Senate Majority Conference in negotiations with the Governor’s Office, Executive Branch agencies and the State Assembly on legislation related to environmental conservation, economic development,consumer protection and agriculture.


Education

  • Albany Law School of Union University, J.D., 1996
  • State University of New York at Albany, B.A., cum laude, 1990

Memberships and Activities

  • Adjunct Professor, Government Law, Albany Law School of Union University
  • Admitted to practice in New York
  • Member, New York State Bar Association

Honors and Awards

  • Lawyer of the Year: Government Relations Practice, The Best Lawyers in America, 2025
  • Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
  • The Best Lawyers in America, 2023 - 2025

Panelist | Legislative Update: 2024 Review & Key Issues for 2025
2024 Annual Environment Conference‍

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