May 9, 2011 — The United States Lawyer Rankings again recognized Vinson & Elkins' partner Larry Nettles as the top environmental lawyer in the United States. This is the fourth year in a row Larry has been ranked #1 on the “Top 10 List” of lawyers who are considered the best in the country in their area of law. 

This award recognizes Larry's work over 30 years in environmental law. During his career he has worked on many complex business transactions and has advised clients on a wide range of environmental matters, including compliance counseling, permitting, and civil and criminal litigation.

The United States Lawyer Rankings honors lawyers who have consistently provided the highest degree of legal representation. Lawyers are ranked based on confidential questionnaires which are graded out of 100 points. Only attorneys with a minimum of 90 points or higher are eligible to be included in a “Top 10 List.” Attorneys are evaluated on their general legal ability, level of negotiating, drafting, and oral advocacy skills, ability to develop creative solutions when faced with a new issue, level of case involvement, and ethical standing.