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R. Latane Montague

Partner

R. Latane Montague focuses on regulatory, investigation, and litigation matters pertaining to safety and environmental regulation in the multi-modal transportation sector, including the automotive, aviation, shipping, rail, and logistics industries. He has represented leading manufacturers of cars, trucks, rail cars, and heavy-duty nonroad and marine propulsion systems in all the most significant safety and emissions crises to face the industry over the last 20 years and has represented leading automakers, engine makers, and railroad equipment suppliers in all major transportation rulemakings from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

Beyond representing clients with regulatory issues, Latane is a trusted adviser to those facing multifaceted challenges that extend beyond regulatory compliance, including high stakes litigation, investigations, and other matters. Latane brings a deep understanding of highly technical engineering issues faced by clients to every matter he handles and combines that technical background with a deep knowledge of the related laws and regulations.

Prior to joining Morgan Lewis, Latane was a partner in another global law firm.

  • Assisted automakers in responding to NHTSA information requests and investigations on dozens of motor vehicle safety defect and compliance issues
  • Represented vehicle and engine makers before the EPA and California Air Resources Board regarding certification and compliance with emissions and fuel economy standards
  • Represented the Railway Supply Institute for the last 25 years in every major federal rulemaking and proceeding before the FRA, PHMSA, and NTSB affecting the industry
  • Advised leading automakers and suppliers on implementing smart-mobility business plans and related compliance with state and local regulations
  • Assisted an international rail tank car owner in investigation proceedings before the NTSB following a high-speed derailment that released over 210,000 gallons of anhydrous ammonia
  • Advised leading automakers and suppliers on implementation and development of federal regulations and guidance for autonomous vehicles
  • Represented tank car manufacturers in proceedings before the FRA and PHMSA to develop new requirements for shipments of crude-oil-by-rail and toxic inhalation hazardous materials
  • Investigated and negotiating settlement of the largest EPA automotive emissions compliance enforcement investigation in the history of the Clean Air Act
  • University of Virginia School of Law, 1997, J.D., Order of the Coif, editor, The Virginia Law Review
  • University of Virginia, 1992, B.A.
  • District of Columbia
  • Clerkship to the US District Court for the Northern District of Alabama (1997 - 1998)

Hall of Fame, Transport: Rail and Road - Litigation and Regulation, The Legal 500 US (2023–2025)

Recommended, Transport: Rail and Road: litigation and regulation, The Legal 500 US (2025)

Ranked, Transportation: Road (Automotive), Nationwide, Chambers USA (2023–2025)

Recognized, Leaders in Environmental Law, Environmental, Transportation, Lawdragon Green 500 (2023–2025)