Practice Areas

Business & Industry

Representation in obtaining environmental permits and authorizations for projects; de­fend­ing enforcement actions; counseling on regulatory issues; participating in agency rulemaking activities; monitoring federal, state and local government activities; and identifying and evaluating potential environmental liabilities associated with transactions.

Property Owners/HOA

Representation in identifying and evaluating potential environmental liabilities and ob­li­ga­tions; counseling on regulatory issues; participating in government rulemaking and other activities; monitoring activities of federal, state and local government entities; obtaining authorizations and permits; and addressing enforcement concerns.

Local Government

Representation in reviewing and negotiating environmental agreements and contracts; counseling on regulatory issues; obtaining permits and authorizations for projects; and maintaining en­vir­on­ment­al permits and approvals.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

As a former staff attorney, Cindy Smiley has great respect for this agency and its mission. Through her ongoing relationships with many of its dedicated professionals, Cindy assists clients in communicating with agency staff. A deep understanding of TCEQ’s governing laws and policies enables the Smiley Law Firm to effectively represent its clients before the agency.

US Environmental Protection Agency

Cindy Smiley has a collaborative style proven successful in over 25 years of resolving regulatory, permitting and enforcement issues for her clients. EPA Region 6, located in Dallas, has responsibility for AR, LA, NM, OK, TX.

Texas Water Development Board

Texas is facing critical decisions on water supply and management. Cindy’s experience in real-world operations of water planning entities across the state, gives the Smiley Law Firm the capacity to augment its clients’ own expertise as they participate in these important processes.

US Army Corps of Engineers

Cindy’s marriage to a civil engineer gives her deep insights into — and respect for — the operating style that characterizes the Corps.

US Department of the Interior Fish & Wildlife Service

Cindy enjoys the science behind issues of aquatic and terrestrial species management, along with balancing stewardship of our natural resources with responsible development.

Environmental Law

  • Solid and Hazardous Waste
  • Petroleum Storage Tanks
  • Waste Classification, Characterization and Management
  • Corrective Action and Remediation
  • Municipal Setting Designations
  • Air Emissions
  • Endangered Species
  • Federal and State Superfund

Water Law

  • Water Rights (surface and groundwater)
  • Water Quality
  • Water Use and Reuse
  • Public Water Systems
  • Water Planning
  • Wastewater Treatment
  • Stormwater Management

International Boundary & Water Commission

As a native Texan, Cindy brings a lifetime of perspective to international water rights issues. The Smiley Law Firm brings this perspective to develop solutions that promise long-term gains to families on both sides of the border.

Groundwater Conservation Districts (GCDs)

As the preferred method of groundwater management under Texas water law, GCDs merit close attention in the years ahead. Having represented commercial, government and private landowners on GCD issues, the Smiley Law Firm brings a wealth of experience to the table.

Railroad Commission of Texas

Although the name may suggest otherwise, the Railroad Commission is the state’s lead agency for oil and gas regulation. With experience in oil & gas exploration and production, Cindy Smiley brings an uncommon depth of insight, practical wisdom and a pragmatic approach to the environmental aspects of this industry.