Environmental Law

Published November 30, 2015 by Virginia Business

Harry M. “Pete” Johnson III

Hunton & Williams LLP
Richmond

Title: Partner
Other legal specialties: Litigation, administrative law
Birthplace: Richmond
Education: Princeton University, bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude; University of Virginia School of Law, law degree.
Spouse: Elizabeth G. “Beth” Johnson
Children: Scott, 24; Ben, 21
Hobbies or pastimes: Golf, fishing, snorkeling
First job as a lawyer: Hunton & Williams associate
Fan of: New York Giants; all U.Va. and Princeton sports; Burnley Clarets (English soccer)
Favorite vacation spot:  Any beach in the Caribbean or golf course in the British Isles
Recently read book: “The Girl in the Spider’s Web” by David Lagercrantz,
Career mentors: E. Milton Farley III and George H. Hettrick

Will the EPA’s Clean Power Plan hurt Virginia’s economy?
A number of people have expressed concerns about the economic impacts, but that’s a question better left to the economists.  As a lawyer, I believe there are profound legal problems with what EPA has done.  Among them, EPA asserts authority to regulate an entire sector under a law that allows it to regulate — at most — only facilities.  Note that these are my personal views; I am not speaking for the Virginia Bar Association.

What are your goals this year as president of the Virginia Bar Association?
The goals for my presidency are a function of what the VBA has meant to me, my family and my career.  We have focused on two priorities: promoting leadership for young lawyers and pro bono service.  The new VBA Leadership Series has included both outstanding speakers and individual leadership assessments for young lawyers.  We also formed the VBA Pro Bono Council.  The council has been very active in advancing pro bono programs and volunteerism throughout the commonwealth.