Sheppard Mullin Bolsters Energy Practice with Jeffrey Escobar in new York
April 15, 2025 – Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP continues its strategic expansion in the energy sector with the addition of Jeffrey R. Escobar as a partner in New York. Escobar, formerly a partner at Troutman Pepper Locke LLP, brings extensive experience in energy, infrastructure, and project finance.
Strategic Growth in the Energy Sector
Sheppard Mullin’s recruitment of Escobar follows the arrival of Michael Malfettone to the firm’s Energy team in New York last month. This move is part of a broader strategy that has seen Julie Marion,Jennifer Brough,Bruce Grabow,and Thomas DeSplinter also join the firm within the past year,demonstrating a clear commitment to strengthening its energy practice.
Escobar’s Expertise
Escobar’s practice focuses on advising a diverse range of clients, including lenders, sponsors, investors, and developers, on complex financing and advancement projects across the United States and the Americas. His expertise spans debt, private credit, and tax equity project financing, as well as M&A and sale-leaseback transactions.He has deep experience in renewable energy projects such as solar, onshore and offshore wind, and option energy initiatives including green and blue hydrogen, biofuel, and emerging energy technologies.
He also advises on battery energy storage, data centers, large infrastructure, transportation, and private-public development projects. His comprehensive understanding of the energy landscape makes him a valuable asset to Sheppard Mullin’s clients.
Leadership Perspectives
Luca Salvi, chair of Sheppard Mullin, emphasized the strategic importance of these additions: Adding Michael Malfettone and now Jeff underscores our strategic focus to continuing to grow our Energy team with attorneys who have a deep understanding of this evolving industry.
He added, His expertise in project finance and infrastructure will add value to our firm and clients, enabling us to continue attracting work of the highest caliber.
Tony Toranto, co-leader of the Energy, Infrastructure and Project Finance industry team, echoed this sentiment: We are thrilled to welcome Jeff to our Energy team.Jeff complements our energy practice with his extensive experience in project, infrastructure and construction finance.
Escobar himself expressed enthusiasm about joining Sheppard Mullin: I am excited to join Sheppard Mullin and am thankful for the opportunity to be reunited and continue collaborating with Michael and the rest of the firm’s talented energy lawyers. I look forward to leveraging my experience to contribute to the firm’s continued growth and to provide remarkable service to our clients.
The meaning of Energy Sector growth in Law Firms
The expansion of Sheppard mullin’s energy team reflects a broader trend in the legal industry, driven by the increasing complexity and importance of energy law. The U.S. is currently undergoing a significant energy transition, fueled by factors such as climate change concerns, technological advancements, and evolving regulatory landscapes. This transition presents a myriad of legal challenges and opportunities, making expertise in energy law highly sought after.
Such as, the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has spurred significant investment in renewable energy projects across the country. This legislation provides considerable tax credits and incentives for companies involved in renewable energy development, creating increased demand for legal expertise in areas such as project finance, tax law, and regulatory compliance.
Law firms with strong energy practices are well-positioned to advise clients on navigating these complexities, securing financing for projects, and complying with environmental regulations. The addition of experienced partners like Escobar enhances a firm’s ability to provide comprehensive legal services to clients in the energy sector.
Escobar’s Background
Escobar’s academic credentials include a B.A., Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of Washington and a J.D., with honors, from the New England School of Law.
