Jesse Medlong

About Jesse Medlong

I am a sustainability litigator and trusted adviser to clients committed to leading in tomorrow\'s economy. I help enterprises of all sizes navigate the legal risks and opportunities along their journey toward sustainable success. My multidisciplinary practice spans climate change, the circular economy, environmental law, and supply chain integrity, with a particular focus on multi‑stakeholder negotiations and creative, stakeholder‑centric dispute resolution approaches. My experience blends international diplomacy, high-stakes litigation, and sustainability policy, providing key insights for simplifying corporate compliance strategies and developing cutting-edge initiatives. My clients include Fortune 500 companies and household brands seeking to identify liability risks and resolve high-profile disputes efficiently and decisively.Some of my more prominent experiences include representing a sovereign country in United Nations climate negotiations, defending an industry against novel Endangered Species Act claims, obtaining summary judgment in global litigation over the fate of commercial aircraft seized by Russia at the outbreak of its war in Ukraine, and reclaiming the wrongly denied rights of veteran organizations to the San Francisco War Memorial that was dedicated in their honor. I consult on current and emerging environmental regimes for clients ranging from multinational retailers to global chemical and agriscience firms. I also advise a wide variety of business on environmental and social risks in supply chains, including risks related to human rights abuses and both physical and transitional risks from climate change.My guiding star is service to others. I am a Navy veteran and an alumnus of DLA Piper\'s Krantz Fellowship, which allowed me to spend my first year as an associate working exclusively on pro bono matters. I am also a member of DLA Piper\'s North American Pro Bono Committee. My commitment to service is a cornerstone of my practice, and clients see this reflected in my work.I write on a variety of topics, including sustainability, the circular economy, responsible business, climate change, environmental legal developments, antimicrobial product regulation, and international law. I am frequently invited to speak on regulatory developments related to plastics, EPR, business and human rights, and climate change.

Experience

1. Defense Council

   Truman National Security Project

   Dec 2015 — Present

   The Truman National Security Project unites next-generation veteran, political, and policy leaders to develop and advance strong, smart, and principled solutions to the global challenges Americans now face.The Defense Council is America’s premier leadership development program for leaders who strive to continue their public service beyond the battlefield. Members might work outside of national security, such as in the private, or public sector, but have a strong desire and ability to influence policy, politics, and public opinion. Members often have experience with veterans affairs or operation experience in hard power, including Special Forces, tactical operations, and other defense establishments.

Education

• University of Michigan Law School

  Juris Doctor (J.D.)

  2010 — 2013

• University of Maryland Global Campus

  B.S., Political Science

  2006 — 2007

• Troy University

  M.S., Inernational Relations

  2008 — 2009