E. Sean Sean Griggs

Energy Law

5.0 (1 reviews)

Indianapolis, Indiana

31+ years experience

Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Updated: Jan 03, 2026

Contact Information

317-236-1313

https://btlaw.com/en/people/sean-griggs

11 South Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204-3535

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Bio

Mr. Griggs represents clients’ interests in legal actions concerning environmental matters brought by private parties and government agencies. He practices before administrative agencies, in state and federal trial courts, and in appellate tribunals. Mr. Griggs' litigation practice includes defense and prosecution of cases arising under federal and state environmental statutes, toxic tort cases, CERCLA and UST disputes, civil penalty proceedings, appellate practice, and FIFRA arbitration proceedings. He is listed in The Best Lawyers in America® in the area of Environmental. Mr. Griggs also advises clients regarding regulatory matters affecting businesses, property owners, and permit holders. Mr. Griggs provides advice and consultation on issues affecting property transfers and business transactions. He occasionally serves as an expert witness on the reasonableness of legal fees and the proper apportionment of cleanup costs. Prior to joining Barnes & Thornburg, Mr. Griggs was a practicing chemical engineer in the organic and specialty chemicals industry. He received a B.S. in chemical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in 1988. Mr. Griggs received his J.D. magna cum laude in 1994 from Indiana University School of Law – Indianapolis, where he was an associate editor on the Indiana Law Review. Mr. Griggs is admitted to practice in the state of Indiana and has been a registered mediator. Mr. Griggs also advises clients regarding regulatory matters affecting businesses, property owners, and permit holders. Mr. Griggs provides advice and consultation on issues affecting property transfers and business transactions. He occasionally serves as an expert witness on the reasonableness of legal fees and the proper apportionment of cleanup costs. Prior to joining Barnes & Thornburg, Mr. Griggs was a practicing chemical engineer in the organic and specialty chemicals industry. He received a B.S. in chemical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in 1988. Mr.

Practice Areas

Energy Law

Awards & Recognition

Lawyer of the Year: Litigation - Environmental, Indianapolis (2013)
Recognized: Energy Law
Recognized: Energy Regulatory Law
Recognized: Environmental Law
Recognized: Litigation - Environmental
Special Focus: Administrative/Regulatory
Special Focus: Alternative Dispute Resolution
Special Focus: Counseling
Special Focus: Enforcement Defense
Special Focus: Environmental Crimes
Special Focus: Litigation
Special Focus: Superfunds/Environmental Remediation
Special Focus: Toxic Tort

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2008

Education

Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, J.D., graduated 1994
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, B.S., graduated 1988

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Reviews

Eric Martin

2 weeks ago

A consummate professional who navigated a complex environmental challenge

Our manufacturing company faced a daunting, multi-agency environmental compliance investigation that threatened significant penalties and operational shutdowns. From our first consultation, Sean Griggs demonstrated a masterful command of both the technical and legal landscapes. His dual background in engineering from Rose-Hulman and his deep, 31-year practice in environmental law at Barnes & Thornburg was immediately evident. He didn't just react to the agencies; he proactively structured our defense, translating complex regulatory language into actionable business strategy. His recognition in Energy Law and prior 'Lawyer of the Year' accolade were well-earned, as his strategic counsel led to a highly favorable settlement that preserved our permits and avoided litigation. Sean’s professionalism is matched by his personal commitment to his clients—he was always accessible and explained every step with clarity. We emerged from a high-stakes situation not just intact, but stronger, thanks to his exceptional guidance.