Jennifer Barks

Partner

Location
Houston
Phone number
(713) 355-5007

Jennifer Barks is an experienced and strategic advocate whose litigation practice spans an expansive range of environmental, commercial, and energy-related matters. In federal and state courtrooms across the country, before arbitration panels, and in government investigations and enforcement actions, Jennifer balances advancing her clients’ interests with protecting their bottom lines.

In her environmental litigation practice, Jennifer represents states, sovereigns, and private companies in complex environmental and civil cases, including pursuing contamination-related and natural resource damage claims under CERCLA, product liability, and other tort theories.

Jennifer has also defended companies in enforcement actions and criminal investigations spearheaded by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and U.S. Department of Justice. Her environmental work also includes issues related to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and forever chemicals, including pursuing contamination and natural resource damages on behalf of private and public clients in standalone lawsuits and in the AFFF Multidistrict Litigation.

Jennifer’s commercial litigation experience extends across a broad spectrum of industries and issues, including complex matters involving contract disputes, fraud and breach of fiduciary duty allegations, and wrongful termination claims. She has a strong track record of obtaining favorable outcomes in court, arbitration, and other alternative dispute resolution forums.

Never losing sight of her clients’ goals and priorities, Jennifer strives for efficiency and effectiveness in her representation. She provides clear direction and succinct, timely communication, ensuring her clients have the information they need to make informed decisions.

I treat each case with urgency, but not impulsiveness. Litigation strategies require preparation, thoughtfulness, and foresight to be effective and successful.”

Ranked as one of the leading practitioners in the Environmental area by Chambers USA in 2021-2023.

The Best Lawyers in America© Ones to Watch” (Woodward/White, Inc.), Environmental Law, 2022-2024.

Recommended in US Legal 500 for her work in the Environment Litigation area, 2020.

Houston Bar Association, Environmental Law Section, Chair, 2022-2023