Joseph McGuire stands out as a highly accomplished attorney specializing in energy regulatory law within Virginia and across the nation. With significant experience as national trial counsel for a major global automaker and over a decade leading a prominent energy regulatory legal team at McGuireWoods, his career showcases deep expertise and a proven track record of success. His work primarily involves representing large energy companies and their electric and gas utilities before state public utility commissions, particularly in Virginia.
In 2015, Mr. McGuire’s contributions to the legal field were nationally recognized when The National Law Journal named him one of the top 50 regulatory “trailblazers” in the United States. This accolade underscores his leading role in the complex re-regulation of Virginia’s electric utilities, a process marked by significant ratemaking proceedings. His expertise extends to securing crucial approvals for the development of new electric generating facilities and essential electric and gas infrastructure projects throughout Virginia and beyond. Furthermore, he has played a key role in facilitating intricate utility mergers in multiple states and has successfully defended against high-stakes gas pipeline safety enforcement claims. Throughout his career, Joseph McGuire has consistently provided strategic counsel and advocacy to help public service companies achieve their most critical objectives.
The innovative approach of Joseph McGuire and his McGuireWoods team was further highlighted in the Financial Times’ North America Innovative Lawyers report in 2019. They received recognition for their unique and comprehensive suite of services – encompassing transactional, regulatory, litigation, government relations, and grassroots advocacy – which secured approval for a major utility acquisition in the Southeastern region. This award-winning work exemplifies his ability to navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes effectively.
Mr. McGuire’s leading-edge experience encompasses a wide range of critical regulatory matters, including general utility rate cases and earnings reviews, nuanced cost of equity determinations, and utility financing matters. He is deeply involved in infrastructure trackers, the integration of new grid technologies, and guiding clients through environmental compliance initiatives. His forward-thinking approach extends to innovative tariff designs and broader counseling and advocacy aimed at establishing optimal regulatory frameworks for his clients. For those seeking a highly experienced and recognized Virginia energy regulatory lawyer, Joseph McGuire offers unparalleled expertise.
Beyond his legal practice, Joseph McGuire is actively engaged in the Richmond community. He serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for the YMCA of Greater Richmond and as a Trustee of Historic Richmond, demonstrating his commitment to community development and preservation. He is also a past president of Rebuilding Together of Richmond, further illustrating his dedication to service and community improvement. Joseph McGuire’s multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to both his profession and the community he serves.
