Richard Agnew

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Richard (Rick) Agnew represents a variety of clients before Congress and federal agencies, particularly on matters relating to federal laws and permits governing energy projects, environmental matters, and the uses of natural resources.

As Chief Republican Counsel for the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs (now the Committee on Natural Resources) of the U.S. House of Representatives, Rick served as committee counsel and staff supervisor in a wide array of federal issues, involving natural resources, Native Americans, and energy production and use. He also was involved in the effort to revitalize Pennsylvania Avenue and Union Station in Washington, DC. Today, Rick uses that experience to help firm clients secure funding or permit authorizations for energy and transportation projects as well as the redevelopment of communities after significant natural disasters or other economic loss.

Rick is active in Bar Association Continuing Legal Education activities and is a frequent speaker on natural resource, Native American, and electric policy issues.

Rick also served as Chairman of Van Ness Feldman LLP, 2012-2019. 

  • Experience
  • Professional Affiliations

    City of Federal Way, Washington

    Board of Ethics, 2007-2011
    Planning Commission, 2006-2007
    Chairman, Human Services Commission, 2005
    Human Services Commission, 1999-2005

  • Awards & Honors
  • Government Service

    U.S. House of Representatives

    Chief Republican Counsel/Staff Director, Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, 1985-1991
    Republican Counsel, Subcommittee on Public Lands and National Parks, 1983-1985
    Staff Counsel, Congressman Don Young (R-AK), 1980-1983

  • News & Presentations
  • Thought Leadership

Education

Seattle University School of Law J.D., 1979

University of Washington B.A., 1973