Sean's litigation practice includes the defense and prosecution of actions arising under federal and state environmental statutes, toxic tort cases, CERCLA and UST disputes, civil penalty proceedings, appellate practice and FIFRA arbitration proceedings. He also advises on regulatory matters affecting businesses, property owners and permit holders, as well as on issues affecting property transfers and business transactions.
Sean worked as a chemical engineer in the organic and specialty chemicals industry prior to the law. Working hands-on as an engineer trained Sean to be solutions-oriented and committed to finding the right result. Sean’s industry experience made him a practical adviser who is not only conservative with his client’s budget, but also more sensitive to their business practices and operations imperatives.
Sean takes a big picture point of view from the onset of each representation, identifying what must happen to realize a satisfactory outcome for his client and then finding a streamlined path to achieving that result. Clients and colleagues alike appreciate that Sean is direct and can be counted on to deliver legal counsel that makes financial and business sense.
Helping people to achieve their goals drives Sean’s personal motivation and service to those he represents. Realistic and pragmatic, Sean is appreciated for his candor and is not daunted by the prospect of straight talk in the event his client’s position is untenable, giving them options to avoid a potentially prolonged and painful litigation that has little chance of meeting the client’s goals. Sean occasionally serves as an expert witness regarding the proper apportionment of cleanup costs and the reasonableness of legal fees.
Sean is a registered civil mediator.
Professional and Community Involvement
Member, American Bar Association
Member, Indiana State Bar Association
Member, Indianapolis Bar Association
Member, American Institute of Chemical Engineers
Member, United Way Key Club
Board member and former treasurer, Wabash Valley Christian Youth Camp
Honors
The Best Lawyers in America, 2008-2025
Indiana Super Lawyers, 2012-2019
Chambers USA, 2023-2024