Energy attorney for Cherokee Nation elected as partner in Washington DC firm

An attorney who helps represent the Cherokee Nation in energy issues has been elected a partner in the Washington, D.C. based Van Ness Feldman law firm.

Maranda Compton, who offices out of Denver, Colorado will become a partner effective Jan. 1, 2019. She has been a leading member of the firm’s nationally recognized Native Affairs practice.

“Maranda’s dedication to finding better ways for tribes and businesses to break down perceived barriers, work together and mutually prosper is altering the way business is conducted in Indian Country,” Richard Agnew, Chairman of Van Ness Feldman said. “Her energy and enthusiasm have allowed her to build bridges between tribal and non-tribal entities to achieve real and meaningful partnerships. Her thoughtful approach to tribal and business relations is garnering interest throughout the U.S. We are honored to recognize Maranda’s significant contributions by electing her to partnership in the firm.”

The Van Ness Feldman Native Affairs practice group has been serving Indian Country since its founding more than 40 years ago. Ms. Compton is the first Native American to be elected Partner from within the firm’s ranks in its history.

Ms. Compton will continue to work primarily from both the firm’s Denver presence and its DC office, where she represents tribal and non-tribal clients in commercial transactions and project development, and advises clients on issues of federal, state and tribal regulations, environmental permitting, energy, and natural resources.

An enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians and the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, Ms. Compton holds a J.D. from the University of Denver, Sturm College of Law, and a B.A. from the College of the Holy Cross.