Dallas DeLuca

His energy practice spans disputes involving long-term power purchase agreements, implementation of the federal Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA), easement disputes, resource planning and cost recovery issues, and constitutional challenges under the dormant Commerce Clause. He has extensive experience litigating matters affecting utility rate structures, regulatory compliance, and long-term infrastructure investments. Whether defending against contract and tort claims or pursuing affirmative relief, Dallas approaches each case with a focus on protecting reliability, regulatory standing, and financial stability.

Dallas has also played a central role in some of Oregon’s most significant and complex litigation. He represented the Oregon Attorney General, the State of Oregon, and Cover Oregon in high-profile litigation against Oracle arising from the state’s health insurance exchange project. In that matter, he briefed and argued dispositive motions, managed litigation teams, and defended key depositions—experience that informs his ability to lead large, document-intensive cases involving sophisticated counterparties.

His broader commercial litigation experience strengthens his energy practice. Dallas has handled disputes involving complex contractual frameworks, trade secrets, patent licenses, manufacturing and distribution agreements, and multi-year supply contracts. His business background—eight years in international trade and apparel sourcing operations—gives him a practical understanding of large-scale operations, supply chains, and executive decision-making, allowing him to communicate effectively with in-house legal teams and senior leadership.

Recognized for excellence in litigation, Dallas has been named a Rising Litigator by the Oregon State Bar’s Litigation Section and is consistently recognized by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America®. He is also committed to public service, having prosecuted misdemeanor cases as a volunteer with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and represented pro bono clients in administrative and appellate proceedings.

Dallas graduated magna cum laude from New York University School of Law, where he was elected to the Order of the Coif and served as an editor of the Environmental Law Journal. After practicing complex federal litigation in New York City, he clerked for Oregon Supreme Court Justice Thomas A. Balmer before joining Markowitz Herbold in 2008.

For energy and utility companies navigating regulatory scrutiny, contractual disputes, and evolving market pressures, Dallas provides experienced counsel, courtroom strength, and strategic perspective.