Jeffery J. Oven is a Partner in the Billings office and serves as a Commercial and Natural Resources Litigation Practice Group Leader. Jeff has previously served on the Firm’s Executive Committee and as the firm’s Litigation Department Chair.
Jeff is a trial attorney and his practice spans complex natural resource litigation, energy and mineral disputes, infrastructure construction disputes, royalty matters, public utility issues, and numerous other commercial litigation and personal injury matters. He has litigated against numerous private individuals and advocacy groups, as well as disputes involving state, federal, and tribal agencies. Throughout his career, as defense counsel, he has defended more than $4 billion in claims and, as plaintiffs counsel, he has secured more than $200 million in judgments, verdicts, and settlements.
Licensed in multiple states, Jeff’s broad jurisdictional reach is often an advantage for his clients, allowing him to effectively represent them in diverse legal landscapes. He serves as national counsel for clients and has handled matters venued in more than a dozen states including Montana, North Dakota, Wyoming, Alaska, Delaware, Colorado, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Virginia, California, Washington, Georgia, Florida, Utah and Washington D.C. He has had trials in six different states.
With over two decades of experience in the energy and mining sector, Jeff is frequently sought after to assist with the negotiation and development of major energy and mining projects. His experience extends to landmark initiatives that include the development and permitting of hard rock mines, refineries, coal mines, oil and gas fields, large-scale reclamation projects, and green energy ventures, including hydroelectric projects, critical mineral developments and nuclear energy. From permit expansions to pipeline construction and tribal agreements, Jeff’s specific industry knowledge and involvement in high-profile projects distinguish him as a trusted leader in the field.
Cases and matters Jeff has worked on have been featured in the reporting of nearly every major news organization including AP, Reuters, Forbes, Fortune, USA Today, and The New York Times.
Clients confidently rely on Jeff, knowing that he always has their best interests in mind. He is dedicated to his clients and his approach promotes collaboration—he and his clients are a unified team. He values creating a partnership between client and attorney.