THOMAS S. WEST
FOUNDING PARTNER | 47 Years of Experience
About
Thomas S. West is the founding partner of The West Firm, PLLC, where he has built a reputation for handling some of the most controversial and complex projects in the environmental and energy fields. He regularly represents clients on matters involving wind, solar, biodigestion, renewable natural gas, and other major energy projects. His work extends across permitting in programs involving air quality, water quality, water quantity, solid waste, hazardous waste, and low-level radioactive waste, as well as environmental issues that arise in real property transactions. With decades of experience, Tom is recognized for his ability to navigate regulatory systems and deliver practical solutions that move projects forward.
In addition to his work in renewable energy, Tom has represented clients in the oil and gas industry, on pipeline certification and construction issues, and in midstream development. He has been active in legislative reforms, agency negotiations, and civil litigation throughout New York and Pennsylvania, and has guided clients through proceedings before commissions and agencies at both the state and federal levels. Outside the office, Tom enjoys kiteboarding, alpine skiing, golf, and tennis, and values time with his family. Clients who work with him can expect an experienced attorney who brings knowledge, strategy, and determination to every case.
Education
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Albany Law School of Union University
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St. Lawrence University
Fun Facts
- Enjoys kiteboarding, alpine skiing, golf, and tennis.
- Met the love of his life at the age of 10, Renee Desormeau West.
Awards & Affiliations
Recognized in Best Lawyers in America®
Recognized in Super Lawyers
Recognized in Corporate Counsel Top Lawyers
Recognized in Strathmore’s Who’s Who
Rated AV Preeminent by Martindale Hubbell
Leadership
Thomas has played a significant role in shaping environmental and energy legislation and regulatory processes in New York and beyond. He was the principal author of New York’s 2005 spacing and compulsory integration legislation for the oil and gas industry and later contributed to the 2008 amendments that addressed shale development. Tom has also been actively involved in legislation that streamlined the pipeline certification process before the New York State Public Service Commission. His experience includes representing clients before the Susquehanna River Basin Commission and the Delaware River Basin Commission, as well as working with the United States Army Corps of Engineers to help improve pipeline review processes.
Education & Credentials
Albany Law School of Union University, J.D.
St. Lawrence University, B.A.
Admitted to practice law in New York
Practice Areas & Industries
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Tom advises clients on major renewable and traditional energy projects, including wind, solar, biodigestion, and renewable natural gas. He assists with siting, permitting, and compliance matters, helping clients move projects forward in alignment with state and federal regulations.
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With decades of experience, Tom guides clients through complex environmental regulatory programs. His work covers permitting and compliance for air quality, water resources, solid and hazardous waste, and environmental issues tied to real estate transactions.
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Tom represents clients before state and federal agencies on permitting, enforcement, and compliance matters. He has extensive experience in regulatory negotiations, administrative hearings, and appeals involving environmental and energy regulations.
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Tom has represented the oil and gas industry for decades, from legislative reforms and compulsory integration to administrative adjudications and litigation. He played a key role in shaping New York’s oil and gas laws and continues to advise clients on transactions, compliance, and disputes in this sector.
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