How much does it cost to hire Kathleen for a energy case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Kathleen walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Kathleen offer a free consultation?

Kathleen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Kathleen's office. Some energy attorneys offer free consults — check Kathleen's current terms during booking.

How long do energy cases in Louisiana typically take?

Simple energy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Kathleen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Kathleen take my case if I'm outside New Orleans?

Kathleen is licensed in Louisiana. Matters governed by Louisiana law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Kathleen will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Kathleen?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Kathleen will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Kathleen accepting new energy clients right now?

Kathleen's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Kathleen Charvet, Energy Attorney in New Orleans

Quick answer

Kathleen Charvet is a director based in New Orleans, LA. The practice focuses on Energy, General, and Maritime. Kathleen has over 43 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Based in: New Orleans, LA
Experience: over 43 years
Known for: Energy · General · Maritime

Handles Energy, General, and Maritime matters from New Orleans, LA.
Over 43 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Kathleen Charvet

Kathleen concentrates on energy, general, and maritime. Each area below outlines the kind of case Kathleen handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Energy cases in New Orleans, Louisiana

Kathleen takes energy matters in New Orleans, Louisiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Kathleen agrees to represent you.

General cases in New Orleans, Louisiana

Kathleen takes general matters in New Orleans, Louisiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Kathleen agrees to represent you.

Maritime cases in New Orleans, Louisiana

Kathleen takes maritime matters in New Orleans, Louisiana. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Kathleen agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Kathleen Charvet — Over 43 years of Louisiana energy experience

Kathleen Charvet is a director based in New Orleans, LA. The practice focuses on Energy, General, and Maritime. Kathleen has over 43 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

With more than 25 years’ experience counseling, representing, and advocating for employer and contractor clients, Kathleen Charvet’s knowledge of the intricacies of the laws and regulations governing her clients enables her to quickly determine the best strategies for defending their interests. Kathleen engages in a collaborative practice with clients; medical, engineering, safety, and vocational expert witnesses; mediators; the bench; and other attorneys to attain optimum results.

Kathleen focuses her practice on the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act and Defense Base Act. Her other practices include admiralty and maritime law, railroad and transportation defense, federal workers’ compensation, and labor and employment law. Throughout her legal career, Kathleen has represented vessel owners and operators, railroads and transportation companies, stevedoring companies and terminal operators, energy companies, multi-national chemical technology companies, military employers, government contractors, and insurance underwriters. Whether the case occurred aboard a vessel or train, commercial transportation, dockside, offshore, or on a military base, Kathleen has the skills and experience to advise her clients in the boardroom and defend them in the courtroom. Kathleen has served as trial and appellate defense counsel in litigation involving personal injury claims brought by Jones Act seamen, Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act claimants, and Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act offshore workers. She defends Defense Base Act claims, Federal Employers Liability Act lawsuits, contractual disputes, limitation of liability, vessel arrests and attachments, as well as issues involving regulatory matters before the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Labor Relations Board, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Following law school, Kathleen served as a law clerk for the Office of Administrative Law Judges, U.S. Department of Labor. In addition to private practice, Kathleen has had the privilege of representing members of the vulnerable and underserved populations in the New Orleans community before and after Hurricane Katrina through Immaculate Conception Jesuit Parish, the HELP Program and Lantern Light at St. Joseph’s Church, Animal Rescue New Orleans, and St. Francis Animal Sanctuary.

When not busy representing her clients, Kathleen appreciates time spent with her family and her membership in several botanical gardens.

Publications and Speaking Engagements

•“Jones Act Cabotage Provisions,” Tulane Admiralty Law Institute (2022).
•“Shakespeare on Ethics,” Tulane Admiralty Law Institute (2022).
•“A Legislative and Regulatory Update Offshore and Shoreline Wind Energy,” U.S. Green Building Council Forward Conference (2021).
•Judge (Appellate Arguments), Judge John R. Brown Admiralty Moot Court Competition, University of Texas School of Law (2021).
•“Recent Developments under the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act and Extensions” (2020).
•“Maritime Safety Act of 2018,” ACI Forum (2019).
•“Recent Developments in Admiralty Law,” Tulane University Law School (2018).
•“Dispute Resolution Clauses in Maritime Contracts,” Admiralty Law Institute, Tulane University Law School (2018).
•“Recent Developments in Admiralty Law,” Tulane University Law School (2017).
•“Gilding the Lily: The Genesis of the Longshoremen’s and Harbor Workers Compensation Act,” 91 Tulane Law Review 881 (2017); Admiralty Law Institute, Tulane University Law School (2017).
•“Recent Developments in Admiralty Law,” Tulane University Law School (2016).
•“Alternative Dispute Resolution and Mediation,” Admiralty Law Institute, Tulane University Law School (2015)
•“Maintenance and Cure: Maximum Medical Improvement. Defenses, and Collateral Sources,” ACI Forum (2014).
•“U.S. Coast Guard Initiatives in 2013 and Federal-State Preemption Issues,” Admiralty Law Institute, Tulane University Law School (2013).
•“Psychological Claims Arising Under the Act, Annual Longshore Conference,” Loyola University College of Law, and the U.S. Department of Labor (2012).
•“Ethical Issues in Catastrophic Incidents: Staying Neutral, Admiralty Law Institute,” Tulane University Law School (2011).
•“Ethical Concerns in Claims Under the Act,” Heather Angelico and Kathleen K. Charvet, Annual Longshore Conference, Loyola University College of Law and the U.S. Department of Labor (2010).
•“Recent Developments Affecting the Administration of the Act,” Annual Longshore Conference, Loyola University College of Law and the U.S. Department of Labor(2008).
•Judge (Appellate Arguments), Judge John R. Brown Admiralty Moot Court Competition, University of Texas School of Law; Tulane Law School Moot Court (2008).
•“Techniques in Deposing Expert Witnesses,” Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (2007).
•Judge (Appellate Briefs), Judge John R. Brown Admiralty Moot Court Competition, University of Texas School of Law; Tulane Law School Moot Court (2006).
•“Recent Developments in Maritime Law,” Kathleen K. Charvet and Heather A. Waterman, 28 Tulane Maritime Law Journal 375 (2004).
•“Section 905(b) and Third-Party Claims: Do Remedies Really Still Exist? What is the Impact on LHWCA Claims?” Kathleen K. Charvet, 3 Loyola Maritime Law Journal 1 - 10 (2004).
•“Recent Developments in Maritime Law,” Tulane University School of Law, Maritime Law Seminar, Honorable Sarah S. Vance, Kathleen K. Charvet and Jeffrey Raizner, Esq.(2003).
•“Maritime Practice in Louisiana: An Update,” Prime Time CLE (2003).
•“Recent Developments in Admiralty and Maritime Law,” Tort and Insurance Law Journal, American Bar Association Vol. 36 No. 2 (Winter 2001).
•“Fontenot v. Dual Drilling. Comparative Fault Doctrine Sinks Blockade Against Quantifying Employer Fault on the OCS,” American Bar Association Torts and Insurance Practice, Admiralty and Maritime Law Committee (1999).
•“Bienvenu v. Texaco, Inc., The “Sea-Change” - Something Rich and Strange, American Bar Association Torts and Insurance Practice,” Admiralty and Maritime Law Committee (1999).
•“Admiralty Law,” Prime Time CLE, Kathleen K. Charvet and Michael deBlanc, Jr. (1998).
•“The Tempest: Recent Developments in the Fifth Circuit Concerning the LHWCA,” The Longshore Claims Association and Prime Time CLE (1998).
•“Handling the Longshore Claim Effectively: Appeals before the Benefits Review Board and the Appellate Courts,” Prime Time CLE, Darnell Bludworth and Kathleen K. Charvet (1997).
•“Handling the Longshore Claim Effectively: Practice before the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs,” Prime Time CLE, Marcus J. Poulliard and Kathleen K. Charvet (1997).
•“An Update on Extension Act Cases,” A Conference on the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, Loyola University School of Law and the U.S. Department of Labor (1997).
•“Intoxication as a Defense: From the Employer’s Point of View,” the Annual Longshore Conference, Loyola School of Law and the United States Department of Labor (1996).
•“Contractor Safety/Liability in Shipyard Employment,” National Safety Council, Dallas, Texas (1995).
•“Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act in Louisiana, Jurisdiction, Practice Pointers and Litigation of Claims,” National Business Institute, Inc. (1995).
•“Strategies for Counseling Employers & Carriers Under the New Law.” Workers’ Compensation Law in Louisiana, National Education Network (1994).
•“Injuries in the Workplace in Louisiana: Ethical Considerations; The Americans with Disabilities Act; and Workers’ Compensation Claims,” National Business Institute, Inc. (1993).
•“An Overview of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act: Recent Developments. A Conference on Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Law,” Professional Education Systems, Inc. (1993).
•“Trial Tactics-Defendant’s Issues, Trial and (Fewer) Errors,” Loyola University School of Law (1992).
•“Section 20 Presumptions-Point/Counterpoint, A Conference on the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act,” Loyola University Law School and the United States Department of Labor (1992).
•“Negotiation and Settlement, A Conference on the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act,” Loyola University Law School and the United States Department of Labor (1992).

Awards & Recognitions

•The Best Lawyers in America - Admiralty and Maritime Law, Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants, Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs, 2026

RELATED NEWS

71 Galloway Attorneys Recognized in 2026 Best Lawyers in America

Running the Clock: Developing A Section 12 Defense Under the Defense Base Act

New Orleans Maritime Attorneys Featured as the Face of Maritime Law

New Orleans Attorneys Recognized as Top Women in Law

Longshore/Defense Base Act Update: Chief ALJ Compares Apples to Oranges Following Schulmeister Decision

Kathleen Charvet Named to CityBusiness 2025 PowerList: Port & Maritime

Galloway Lawyers Named to 2024 Top Lawyers by New Orleans Magazine

Benefits Review Board Allows Claimant Another Bite at the Apple After Settlement

Longshore/Defense Base Act: U.S. Dept. of Labor Releases Annual Adjustments for 2025

Defense Base Act Update: Benefits Review Board Addresses Recent Trends in Expert Medical Evidence

Galloway Attorneys Named to 2025 Best Lawyers in America

Kathleen K. Charvet and Jason Waguespack to Present at the 30th Biennial Admiralty Law Institute hosted by Tulane University Law School

Kathleen's approach to energy cases

With more than 25 years’ experience counseling, representing, and advocating for employer and contractor clients, Kathleen Charvet’s knowledge of the intricacies of the laws and regulations governing her clients enables her to quickly determine the best strategies for defending their interests. Kathleen engages in a collaborative practice with clients; medical, engineering, safety, and vocational…

The kind of cases Kathleen takes

Kathleen reviews new inquiries case-by-case for energy, general, and maritime matters in New Orleans and the surrounding Louisiana area.

Credentials

Kathleen Charvet's legal education and bar admissions

Tulane University School of Law
J.D. · 1983
Oxford University, Exeter College
University · 1977

Jurisdictions

Kathleen's state bar admissions

U.S. Supreme Court
1991 · ACTIVE
U.S. Court of Appeal
1985 · ACTIVE
Louisiana U.S. Distr
1983 · ACTIVE

Kathleen studied at J.D. in Tulane University School of Law and University in Oxford University, Exeter College.

Law school and academic background

Kathleen completed J.D. in Tulane University School of Law and University in Oxford University, Exeter College. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Kathleen runs in Louisiana is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Kathleen Charvet

Kathleen has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Kathleen Charvet's office in New Orleans

Kathleen's primary office is at Hancock Whitney Center, 701 Poydras Street, 40th Floor, New Orleans, LA, 70139. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith

Hancock Whitney Center, 701 Poydras Street, 40th Floor

New Orleans, LA 70139

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Kathleen Charvet — 5.0/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Kathleen. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing energy attorneys in New Orleans.

5.0

2 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Kathleen Charvet claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Kathleen Charvet — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new energy attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Kathleen usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Kathleen charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Kathleen's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Kathleen will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a energy attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana

A short list to run through before you commit: How many energy matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Kathleen

Kathleen discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in energy practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every energy matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Kathleen confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Kathleen's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many energy practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Kathleen Charvet

How much does it cost to hire Kathleen for a energy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Kathleen walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Kathleen offer a free consultation?
Kathleen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Kathleen's office. Some energy attorneys offer free consults — check Kathleen's current terms during booking.
How long do energy cases in Louisiana typically take?
Simple energy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Kathleen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Kathleen take my case if I'm outside New Orleans?
Kathleen is licensed in Louisiana. Matters governed by Louisiana law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Kathleen will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Kathleen?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Kathleen will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Kathleen accepting new energy clients right now?
Kathleen's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Louisiana residents in the last few months, answered by energy attorneys like Kathleen Charvet. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Sue An Energy Company For Unfair Practices In Delaware?
I live in Wilmington, Delaware, and have encountered numerous issues with my electric provider, including billing errors and poor customer service. I’m considering legal action. Wh
1 verified answer · Energy · Delaware
What To Do If My Phone Provider Is Also Charging For Utilities In North Carolina?
I live in Charlotte, North Carolina, and my phone company has started charging me for 'utility-like' services that I never agreed to. I feel like I’m being scammed. Is this even le
1 verified answer · Energy · North Carolina
Are There Regulations For Renewable Energy Providers In Massachusetts?
I'm interested in switching to a solar company in Boston, Massachusetts, but I've heard about some bad practices from other consumers. Are there specific regulations in place that
1 verified answer · Energy · Massachusetts
Is My Electric Company Allowed To Disconnect During Winter In Minnesota?
After living in Minneapolis for years, my electric company is threatening to shut off my power during the winter months because of unpaid bills. I am worried about my family's safe
1 verified answer · Energy · Minnesota
Can I Challenge An Energy Audit In South Carolina?
I'm a business owner in Columbia, South Carolina, and I received a notice that my energy usage is being audited by the utility company. I believe their calculations are incorrect a
1 verified answer · Energy · South Carolina
Is It Legal For My Energy Company To Change Rates Without Notice In Oregon?
I received a notice from my energy company in Portland, Oregon, about a sudden rate increase effective immediately. I feel blindsided because they didn’t give prior notice. Can the
1 verified answer · Energy · Oregon

Areas served

Energy attorneys serving New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Metairie in Louisiana

Kathleen handles energy matters throughout Louisiana. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified energy attorneys in that community.

Kathleen Charvet, Energy Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana

Quick answer