Janis Carey, Vice President
On helping to build a new practice area
Analysis Group has always had a strong energy practice. It has undertaken some environmental litigation work as well, but we were not as well-established in the areas of environmental and natural resources-economics. It’s been terrifically fun and challenging for me to have a central role in raising our visibility in this important and growing area. I’ve received a lot of support in my initiatives, from taking on new kinds of cases to connecting with new academic affiliates.
On blending “work Janis” and “home Janis”
In my previous job I sometimes felt that my work self and home self were two different people. That’s not the case here. The firm has some very strong female role models, and as a working mother, I appreciate their accomplishments and their support. We are all highly motivated people, but we try to achieve a balance in our lives. We might not succeed every day, but we get a lot of positive reinforcement when we do!
On recent casework
I was recently involved in a case focused on water rationing in Southern California during drought periods. Interestingly, "drought" conditions have been caused in some regions not just by reduced rainfall but by court-ordered water curtailments due to the Endangered Species Act. We analyzed the economic impact of water rationing on a water district in the Los Angeles area and evaluated how our client would fare under the rationing scheme compared to other water districts.
On the growth in environmental and natural resource work
The growing focus in our Denver office on environmental and natural resource engagements fits in well with the Denver area. People are drawn to the Rocky Mountains for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, and Coloradans tend to have a high awareness and deep interest in environmental and natural resource matters. Colorado is home to major environmental research centers such as the National Renewable Energy Labs and the National Center for Atmospheric Research. It is also an area with rich energy resources, both conventional and renewable. I expect the energy, environmental, and natural resource practices in Denver to continue to grow.