Michael L. Platner

Michael Platner’s practice focuses on government affairs and legal issues pertaining to tax, energy, customs, and international trade legislative and regulatory issues.  Michael has extensive experience developing and implementing successful government relations programs.  He has a refined understanding of the political landscape, supported by substantial technical skills and a wealth of experience drafting issue papers, advising on tax matters, and building winning strategies for participants in energy and related markets. 

Highlights of Michael’s professional background and experience prior to joining the firm include:

American Petroleum Institute, 1992-2009
While serving as the Tax Director, Michael advised on tax issues, developed and implemented strategies to address issues, and served as an advocate for industry positions with the Senate Finance Committee, House Ways and Means Committee, and Treasury Department.  Prior to being appointed Tax Director, Michael served as Washington Representative lobbying for the Institute on tax, budget and international trade issues for more than a decade.

U.S. Senator John H. Chafee (R-RI), 1988-1992
Michael served as Tax and International Trade Counsel, providing the Senator legal and technical drafting support on all tax and trade legislation and general economic issues such as the budget deficit, interest rates, inflation, employment, and the trade deficit.   

Professional and Civic Affiliations

• American Bar Association
• Federal Bar Association
• Texas State Board of Public Accountancy
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Speaking Engagements

• Law Seminars International: The New Tax Bill: Key Energy Provisions, January 19, 2011

News

• Van Ness Feldman Assists Client in Drafting Successful Tax Credit Application Resulting in Over $100 Million
• Michael Platner Joins Van Ness Feldman as Senior Tax Counsel