Unparalleled mining knowledge with a cross-discipline approach 

Overview

More than 130 years ago, Parsons Behle & Latimer was founded as a mining firm. Today, Parsons has one of the strongest mining practices in the Western United States. From the initial stages of a mining project through reclamation and closure, our mining attorneys have broad experience teaming with clients on every aspect of a mining operation. Our clients range from small junior mining companies to some of the world's largest and most diversified international mining companies.

Our multi-disciplinary group of mining attorneys leverages its experience and knowledge to provide timely, effective advice and solutions to clients for the numerous complex issues facing modern domestic and international mining and mineral processing companies. We assist clients with:

  • Mineral title examination and land use authorizations
  • Financing
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Joint ventures
  • Exploration, lease and option agreements
  • Environmental permitting, compliance, and diligence
  • Royalty and refining agreements
  • Joint operating agreements
  • Water rights
  • Electrical power supply and infrastructure
  • Administrative appeals and litigation
  • Environmental liability, cleanup and reclamation issues

Virtually every practice team in the firm provides services to our mining clients. Our attorneys assist mining clients with:

  • Employment law
  • Corporate, tax and finance law
  • Litigation
  • Real estate and land use
  • Energy law
  • Communications law 

U.S. Mining Law Handbook

The Mining Law Short Course Handbook is a comprehensive overview of mining laws in the United States relating to the acquisition, exploration, development, operation and closure of hard rock mining projects. For several years, Parsons has partnered with the American Exploration and Mining Association and the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada to present the Handbook in the form of a full-day short course at each association’s annual convention.

Team

Key Contacts

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Experience

Defense Against Environmental Violations in Mining Industry

Served as legal counsel for a consultant mining company and its principal against state environmental agency allegations of violating mining reclamation laws. Representing two of five co-defendants in the case.

Mining Operations and Environmental Compliance in Superfund Site

Served as legal counsel for a mining company's ongoing copper and molybdenum operations within a Superfund Site. Assisted in obtaining permit modifications to extend mine life and coordinated clean-up efforts with ongoing mining activities. Supported the implementation of an EPA-approved water treatment process and evaluation of waste management options in collaboration with environmental agencies.

Advising on Copper Mine Development and Environmental Impact

Served as legal counsel for a copper mining company in its efforts to permit and develop a new mine. Worked with the client and U.S. Forest Service to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement and implement a federal land exchange.

Insights