Sam R. Olson

As an associate attorney with BrownWinick, I work primarily in the Energy, Natural Resources and Environmental Law Practice Group. I have experience tackling complex environmental and regulatory challenges across multiple industries, including electric power, natural gas distribution, manufacturing, and refining, with a focus on regulatory advocacy, compliance counseling, and litigation. I frequently advise clients on various air, water, and waste issues and help clients navigate the complexities of changing state and federal laws. I also have worked on high stakes litigation matters such as class action lawsuits and appellate challenges to environmental regulations. 

My Approach

When facing complex challenges, it is crucial to understand the whole picture. I seek to understand all aspects of your business, your goals, and the challenges you’re facing. I enjoy delving into the technical aspects of a matter and drawing upon my background in environmental science to better understand your concerns, find the right solution for you or your company, and ensure that you receive practical, actionable, and tailored advice. 

More About Me

I was born and raised in Des Moines, but, after growing very tired of Iowa winters, I headed south to Florida for college. I graduated cum laude from the University of Miami with a B.A. in Ecosystem Science and Policy and Economics in 2016. After undergrad, I slowly began my journey back north. I received my J.D., cum laude, from Duke University School of Law in 2020, where I was the editor-in-chief of the Duke Environmental Law & Policy Forum. I was admitted to the Iowa bar in 2024, District of Columbia bar in 2021 and practiced law at a large, international law firm in Washington, D.C. for three years before returning to my hometown. 

My Specialties

• Environmental law (air, water, waste) 
• Energy Law 
• Renewable Energy Law (wind, solar, renewable natural gas) 
• Administrative/Regulatory Law 
• Litigation 
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 
• U.S. Department of Energy