Robert J. Gorrie

Education

Pace University School of Law, J.D. magna cum laude with a certificate in Environmental Law – 2012
Skidmore College, B.A. Environmental Studies with minors in Biology, Geology, and English Writing – 2003

Admitted to Practice

New Jersey – 2012
New York – 2013
United States District Court of New Jersey

Relevant Experience

ARCADIS U.S., international engineering and consulting firm – Environmental Scientist

Current Affiliations

BCONE – Brownfield Coalition of the Northeast
LSRPA – N.J. Licensed Site Remediation Professionals Association
NJSBA – New Jersey State Bar Association
NYSBA – New York State Bar Association

Questions

Q. What is your earliest memory of wanting to work in the environmental field?
A. Growing up in a more rural part of New Jersey, I developed an early appreciation for nature through outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, boating, and rock climbing. While we lived in a rural area, we were also in close proximity to the urban and industrial areas of New Jersey, where I witnessed the effects of development and the legacy of contamination on the natural environment. My desire to work in the environmental field was born out of the interplay between these experiences with the goal of preserving natural areas, restoring areas that have been negatively impacted by development, and working to promote smart and effective solutions for future development that are in greater harmony with the natural environment.

Q. You studied Environmental Science, how has that helped you in the practice of environmental law?
A. Science, especially the fields of biology, chemistry, and geology, play an integral role in all of our cases since most of our cases at some level involve the effects caused by the introduction of chemicals or hazardous materials into the environment. In all our cases, we work closely with scientists, engineers and other experts. Having a background in environmental science gives me a fluency in the technical aspects of our cases, and allows me to adequately review and analyze the work of experts, and affords me the opportunity to be a more effective advocate for our clients.

Q. How should clients prepare for seeing an environmental lawyer
A. The better we understand a client’s case, the better we can counsel and advise a client. New clients should prepare for a first meeting with an environmental attorney by carefully and diligently organizing and bringing with them all documents and files relevant to their case.

Q. What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?
A. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and outdoor activities such as running, hiking, camping, and rock climbing.