(Birmingham, AL/March 25, 2009) Kevin R. Garrison of Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC, has earned certification as a LEED accredited professional. The LEED Professional Accreditation indicates that a person has the knowledge and skills to facilitate the integrated design process and streamline the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification process. The LEED certification process provides independent, third-party verification that a building project meets green building and performance measures by the U.S. Green Building Council (USBGC). Nationally, fewer than 300 attorneys are LEED AP certified.
A graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law, Mr. Garrison is an associate in the Firm's Birmingham office, where he concentrates his practice in construction litigation. He also holds a degree in civil engineering from the University of Alabama. Mr. Garrison is one of only two Alabama attorneys who are LEED AP certified, according to the USGBC's online directory.
"Because of the rapid growth in sustainable construction, a growing number of our clients need the counsel of an attorney who has a thorough understanding of the green building practices and principles of the LEED Rating System," said Edward P. Meyerson, shareholder in Baker Donelson's Birmingham office and leader of the Firm's Construction practice group. "As one of the few attorneys certified as a LEED Accredited Professional, Kevin has the unique knowledge and background to assist clients in the construction industry with any green building contracts or disputes."