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Kirk's practice focuses on complex energy issues, but clients can count on him to make things understandable and be commercially minded. According to Chambers USA clients comment that Kirk's “work ethic is unquestionable and his work product is impeccable” (2021), that he is “one of the best in the business; he’s instrumental to the success” (2020), “at the cutting edge of regulatory issues in the oil and gas space; his mastery of this area helps us successfully navigate sometimes rough waters” (2019), and how he “has a deep understating of the regulator with whom the company interact; he has been instrumental in guiding the transactions in a way that satisfies the commercial needs while complying with sometimes arcane regulatory requirements” (2018).

Kirk advises oil and gas pipelines on the commercial and regulatory issues that are central to their business. He is regularly called upon by pipeline clients regarding new infrastructure projects, including greenfield pipelines and expansion projects. In this role, lead clients through the process of preparing open season materials, negotiating and drafting precedent and transportation agreements, and preparing tariffs. Kirk also works closely with clients to obtain regulatory approvals required for new pipeline infrastructure, services, and rates. He routinely represents pipeline clients in administrative litigation before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, including rate cases and complaint proceedings. Kirk represents not only interstate pipelines, but also gatherers, intrastate pipelines, and Hinshaws. Kirk advises numerous natural gas intrastate pipelines on the nuances and requirements associated with Section 311 of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978.