They’ve Got Next: The 40 Under 40 - Emilie McNally of McGuireWoods

Please describe two of your most substantial, recent wins in practice.

I helped lead the McGuireWoods team that represented Dominion Energy, Inc. in its sale of three local gas distribution companies to Enbridge Inc. for an aggregate purchase price in excess of $14 billion, creating the largest natural gas utility franchise in North America.

The deal was complicated, nuanced and fast-paced, structured as three separate purchases to an international buyer, covering three regulated operating companies spanning five states, with over 3,000 employees. Our team managed the transaction from inception, including a competitive auction process and negotiations, with the first two closings occurring in Q1 and Q2 of 2024.

I also advised NiSource Inc. in its sale of a 19.9% interest in its regulated subsidiary NIPSCO to Blackstone for $2.16 billion with an additional $250 million equity commitment for future capital calls. The transaction included a purchase agreement and bespoke operating agreement that governs the parties’ relationship and NIPSCO’s future operations.

In addition, I remain committed to my pro bono practice, including the Medical-Legal Partnership (“MLP”) between VCU Health, McGuireWoods and Dominion. I was a founding member of the MLP in 2019 and helped establish the MLP as a critical provider of free legal advice for low-income patients in the Richmond area.

What is the most important lesson you learned as a first-year attorney and how does it inform your practice today?

A crucial lesson I learned in my early years as an associate is the importance of adopting a holistic perspective in transactions. Amidst the myriad of discrete projects assigned to a first-year associate, it became evident that piecing together the broader context is key. Beyond the minutiae, I endeavored to comprehend the deal in its entirety — delving into the business motivations and understanding the intricate interplay of various documents.

This holistic understanding allowed me to anticipate potential issues and informed my approach to structuring deals. I learned the art of extracting valuable insights from conversations with partners and clients, posing relevant questions to gain a comprehensive viewpoint.

This journey has illuminated the role of lawyers as facilitators in business dealings, emphasizing that our ultimate goal is to ensure the transaction works seamlessly for the client. The key lies in maintaining a keen awareness of the big picture, understanding our role and consistently seeking ways to add substantial value.

How do you define success in your practice?

Success in my practice is anchored in the satisfaction of my clients. While I acknowledge that certain circumstances are beyond my control, my approach hinges on maximizing the potential within the given facts. The ultimate litmus test is whether I’ve secured the best possible outcome for my clients and protected them from liability. This involves navigating the complexities of the legal landscape with a strategic mindset, always seeking innovative solutions to safeguard my clients’ interests.

What are you most proud of as a lawyer?

My proudest accomplishment as a lawyer is the transformative journey of McGuireWoods’ energy team, which we’ve meticulously cultivated. Rewinding to my entry into the firm in 2013, the Richmond energy team comprised only myself and another associate.

Fast forward, and the trajectory of our practice has been nothing short of extraordinary. The Richmond office now includes 44 partners, 11 counsel and 33 associates on the energy industry team. What began as a focus primarily on utility work now encompasses independent power producer projects, private equity work and a comprehensive array of sectors touched by the energy industry.

The metamorphosis of our team stands as a testament to resilience, strategic vision and a shared commitment to excellence. Witnessing this exponential growth has been a source of immense pride, reflective of the collaborative spirit and innovative approach that define our team.

Who is your greatest mentor in the law and what have they taught you?

My most influential mentor in the law is undeniably McGuireWoods Richmond partner Joanne Katsantonis. Having had the privilege of working under her guidance as an associate and summer associate, I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have her as a mentor.

What sets Joanne apart is her holistic approach to the practice of law. She possesses unparalleled legal skills and seamlessly integrates the mindset of a businessperson. I’ve witnessed firsthand her ability to grasp the intricacies of why a deal is being executed, discern the overarching strategy and identify the pivotal elements that demand attention. Joanne’s capacity to envision the entire landscape allows her to prioritize effectively and navigate negotiations with precision.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned from Joanne is her approach to business development. Rather than merely focusing on generating business, she prioritizes doing what is genuinely in the best interest of her clients. Her authentic dedication to client success, coupled with a genuine and respectful approach to all interactions, has made her not just a lawyer but a trusted adviser to those she serves.

I strive to emulate Joanne in my own practice — cultivating true friendships, prioritizing client well-being, and approaching each endeavor with a genuine enthusiasm that fosters positive and enduring professional relationships.

Tell us your two favorite songs on your summer music playlist.

Beyoncé “Texas Hold ‘Em” has to be the catchiest song of the summer! I also love “Wild Night” by Van Morrison—such a fun song for summer nights.

Emilie McNally of McGuire Woods and her two children at the pool.

Credit: Emilie McNally and Jonathan Hurtarte/Bloomberg Law