

MICHAEL W. PETERS
PARTNER | 26 Years of Experience
Education
- Albany Law School of Union University, 1988
- Marist University, 1985
Fun Facts
- Recipient of the ILO Client Choice Award in Environmental (USA/NY)
- Former Adjunct Professor of Law at Albany Law School
About
Michael W. Peters, a Partner at The West Firm, focuses his practice on environmental law and complex litigation. He represents corporations, developers, public utilities, and municipalities across a wide spectrum of environmental matters, including regulatory compliance, permitting, hazardous waste site remediation, brownfield redevelopment, project siting, and land use approvals. His work involves guiding clients through civil and administrative enforcement actions, ensuring compliance with state and federal oversight, and protecting their interests in both transactional and development contexts.
With decades of experience litigating in federal and state trial and appellate courts, Mr. Peters has built a reputation for his ability to resolve complex disputes through both litigation and alternative dispute resolution methods. He routinely advises clients on strategies to minimize liability, mitigate risk, and negotiate efficient solutions with regulators, government agencies, and private parties. Known for balancing strong advocacy with practical problem-solving, Mr. Peters provides clients with results-driven counsel that addresses both immediate challenges and long-term objectives in highly regulated industries.
Awards & Affiliations
AV Preeminent® Rating by Martindale-Hubbell (highest peer rating standard)
Top-Rated Lawyer in Energy/Environmental by The American Lawyer and Martindale-Hubbell
International Law Office (ILO) Client Choice Award – Environmental (United States, 2012)
International Law Office (ILO) Client Choice Award – Environmental (New York State, 2013 & 2015)
Leadership
Michael Peters has been actively engaged in the legal and academic community throughout his career. He previously served as a partner at the international law firm LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae, LLP, practicing in the Environmental and Litigation Practice Groups, and as a member of Stockli Slevin & Peters, LLP. In addition to his practice, he has contributed to legal education as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Albany Law School, where he shared his expertise in environmental law and litigation with the next generation of attorneys.
Education & Credentials
Albany Law School of Union University, J.D., 1988
Marist University, B.A., 1985
Admitted to practice law in New York
Practice Areas & Industries
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Michael Peters represents corporations, developers, utilities, and municipalities in environmental law matters, including hazardous waste remediation, brownfields, permitting, compliance, and enforcement proceedings.