April Jones 
Associate – McGuireWoods

Description of field of expertise

April Jones focuses her practice on advising electric and gas utility clients in complex regulatory proceedings and litigation before state utility commissions, primarily representing regulated utilities before the Virginia State Corporation Commission. She represents utilities in proceedings involving affiliate transactions, applications for transmission line certificates of public convenience and necessity, and demand-side management and energy efficiency programs. She also advises utility clients in emerging areas within the energy industry such as battery storage systems and programs. April supplements her practice by counseling clients on retail supplier regulations, environmental regulatory compliance matters and real estate issues involving leases and titles/surveys. In her practice, April assists clients with every aspect of the administrative proceeding including preparation for initial filings, discovery and public hearings. She also maintains an active pro bono practice and represents clients in various family law matters including guardianship and conservatorship.

 

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

Regulatory and compliance is a specialty field and is very nuanced. I would encourage new attorneys who may have an interest in this type of law to seek out as many observational and writing opportunities as possible. Do not be afraid to look for a mentor or ask for guidance when necessary, as this law is fast-paced and ever-changing. It is important to gain the skills necessary to understand how all the minor subparts of the law and industry work to understand the big picture behind each moving part. The regulatory and compliance field can be very fact-specific depending on the regulations applicable to each corporation/utility. There is a steep learning curve in this type of law requiring patience, consistency and adaptability, but it is interesting to see how the rules transfer and operate in real life.

 

Final thoughts…

The regulatory and compliance field continues to develop, and there is still room for more diversity. It is a good field for diverse, new attorneys to consider when making career choices.