John W. Dawson IV
John Dawson focuses his practice on the areas of environmental and construction law and products liability. Prior to attending law school, John had a successful career as a civil and environmental engineer. John incorporates this knowledge base and past experience into his practice, providing him a unique insight into his clients’ interests and goals.
John’s practice encompasses:
- Environmental – Representing industries, utilities, and municipalities in environmental disputes and regulatory enforcement actions, as well as environmental permitting and compliance, related to water and wastewater treatment, storm water management, air emissions, site remediation, hazardous waste and materials management, and water use rights, as well as representing clients in corporate and real estate transactions.
- Construction & Real Estate – Representing owners, developers, contractors, and designers in various construction and real estate transactions and disputes; preparing and negotiating construction agreements.
- Products Liability & Mass Torts – Working with manufacturers in a wide variety of industries utilizing his background in science and engineering to provide a foundation for comprehensive legal representation in disputes involving products and chemicals.
John is a contributing author of the Water Quality Control Handbook, and an article summarizing his thesis on reaeration in rivers and streams was published in the Journal of Environmental Engineering.
Representative Experience
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Representation of LFM Capital, a private equity firm focused on lower middle market manufacturing and industrial services businesses, in its investment in Washington-based Rainier Industries – a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial shade, shelter, and display solutions.
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Representation of Gen Cap America, Inc., a private equity firm focused on lower middle market buyouts, on its acquisition of Lab Products, LLC and Hartford Systems, LLC (together, “Lab Products”) from Avidity Science, LLC. Lab Products is a leading manufacturer providing an extensive line of laboratory research animal housing and care equipment. This transaction marks Gen Cap America’s fourteenth acquisition from its seventh fund.
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Representation of LFM Capital’s portfolio company, J&E Precision Tool, in its acquisition of Beranek, LLC, a precision manufacturer of technical components for the aerospace & defense, and space exploration markets
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We represented Tractor Supply Company (Nasdaq: TSCO) in their agreement to acquire Orscheln Farm and Home, a family-owned farm and ranch retailer.
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We represented Gibson, the iconic American instrument brand, in its acquisition of Mesa/Boogie, one of the most prestigious brands in sound and guitar amplification. Centered on decades of professional experience and a true passion for sound, this historical transaction perfectly aligned with Gibson’s efforts to renew the iconic brand’s legacy and commitment to musicians around the world. The partnership was a natural collaboration of iconic American brands on a mutual quest of sound, quality and craftsmanship and to push the boundaries of how guitar sound is delivered and experienced. In addition, Mesa/Boogie founder Randy Smith will join Gibson as Master Designer and Mesa/Boogie amps will be available in Gibson’s Custom Shop for Amplifiers.
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Representation of LFM Capital’s portfolio company, J&E Precision Tool, in its acquisition of Alloy Specialties Inc., a manufacturer of engine components for defense and commercial air and ground applications
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Representation of Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, PLLC, a leading orthopedic care provider in Mississippi, in its sale to FFL Partners, a San Francisco-based private equity firm. With this acquisition, FFL Partners formed a new orthopedic health services organization, U.S. Orthopedic Partners.
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Representation of Twin River Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TRWH) in its definitive agreement to acquire Jumer’s Casino & Hotel, from Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment, Inc., for $120 million in cash
Publications
Media Mentions & Firm News
Accolades
Chambers USA — Environment (2020-2021), Up and Coming (2019)
Professional Engineer
Tau Beta Pi
Chi Epsilon
Phi Kappa Phi
University of Tennessee Legal Clinic
University of Tennessee Environmental Law Moot Court Team
Education
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University of Tennessee College of Law - J.D., 2008
cum laude
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Vanderbilt University - M.S., 1999
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University of Tennessee - B.S., 1996
magna cum laude
Admissions
- Tennessee, 2008
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Tennessee
- U.S. District Court, Middle District of Tennessee
Chambers USA
"John Dawson regularly acts for utilities, municipalities and corporate clients in enforcement actions and environmental litigation. He handles matters arising under air, water and waste regulations. Clients say: 'He is very knowledgeable and well respected.'"
From Chambers USA 2020