Navigating Environmental Law with Mark A Chertok Esq at Sive Paget Riesel PC

Environmental law is a complex and evolving field that affects many aspects of public policy, business, and community life. Understanding the legal framework that governs environmental protection, land use, and infrastructure development requires expertise and experience. Mark A. Chertok, Esq., a Senior Partner at Sive, Paget & Riesel, P.C., brings decades of specialized knowledge to this challenging area. His work supports government agencies, private entities, and civic organizations in navigating environmental regulations and litigation.

This post explores how Mark Chertok’s expertise helps clients manage environmental law issues, from permitting and impact assessments to remediation and enforcement. It highlights the key areas of his practice and the practical value he offers in protecting the environment while advancing development projects.

Expertise in Environmental Impact Assessments and Permitting

One of the core challenges in environmental law is ensuring that development projects comply with environmental standards before they proceed. Mark Chertok has extensive experience reviewing Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) and counseling clients under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and New York State’s equivalent, the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA).

These laws require detailed assessments of how projects affect air, water, land, and communities. Mark helps clients prepare and review these assessments to meet legal requirements and avoid costly delays or litigation. His work includes:

• Advising on waterfront permitting for projects along coastal and inland waterways

• Navigating wetlands and water quality permits under the Clean Water Act

• Coordinating with agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

  
  

By guiding clients through these processes, Mark ensures that projects comply with environmental standards while balancing development goals.

Handling Major Infrastructure and Transportation Projects

Infrastructure projects often face complex environmental regulations due to their scale and potential impacts. Mark Chertok has represented numerous public agencies and private clients involved in transportation, energy, and urban development projects. His expertise covers:

• Environmental review and litigation related to highways, bridges, and transit systems

• Coordination with federal and state agencies including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and New York State Thruway Authority

• Addressing air quality and climate change concerns under the Clean Air Act

  
  

For example, Mark has worked with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey on projects requiring extensive environmental review and permitting. His ability to manage regulatory compliance helps keep projects on schedule and within legal boundaries.

Expertise in Hazardous Substance Remediation and Litigation

Environmental contamination presents serious legal and technical challenges. Mark Chertok’s practice includes hazardous substances remediation under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund, and New York’s Brownfield Cleanup Program.

He assists clients with:

• Negotiating cleanup plans and liability issues for contaminated sites

• Managing oil spill remediation under New York State Navigation Law

• Conducting compliance reviews of Phase I and II environmental site assessments

  
  

Mark’s experience helps clients resolve contamination issues efficiently, protecting public health and minimizing legal risks.

Navigating Enforcement, Land Use, and Zoning Issues

Environmental law intersects with land use and zoning regulations, which can affect development projects and community planning. Mark Chertok advises clients on:

• Compliance with local zoning laws and coastal zone management regulations

• Historic preservation requirements that impact development

• Enforcement actions brought by environmental agencies

  
  

His work supports school districts, local governments, and private developers in aligning their projects with legal requirements, avoiding disputes, and securing necessary approvals.

Working with Federal, State, and City Agencies

Mark Chertok’s practice involves frequent interaction with a wide range of government agencies. His familiarity with their procedures and priorities is a key asset. Agencies he regularly works with include:

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• U.S. Coast Guard

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

• New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)

• New York City Department of City Planning

  
  

This broad agency experience allows Mark to anticipate regulatory challenges and advocate effectively for his clients.

Representing Government and Civic Organizations

Mark’s client base includes many public entities and civic organizations. He has represented:

• New York State Empire State Development

• New York City School Construction Authority

• New York City Economic Development Corporation

• New York State Department of Health

  
  

His work supports public projects that require careful environmental review and compliance, helping agencies fulfill their missions while protecting natural resources.

Practical Benefits of Working with Mark A. Chertok

Clients working with Mark Chertok benefit from his:

• Deep knowledge of environmental statutes and regulations

• Strategic approach to litigation and negotiation

• Ability to coordinate complex multi-agency reviews

• Experience balancing environmental protection with development needs

  
  

His guidance reduces legal risks, streamlines permitting processes, and helps clients achieve their goals in a responsible manner.