Advising Utilities and Infrastructure Stakeholders on Complex Legal Matters
Robert C. Pearman has deep experience in representing public agencies and private entities in legal issues involving utility relocation, permitting, easements, energy infrastructure, and environmental compliance. His work spans large-scale infrastructure and public works projects throughout California.
As legal counsel to the Los Angeles Metro Rail Project, Mr. Pearman played a key role in utility-related legal matters, including:
Negotiation and drafting of over 100 interagency agreements with utility companies, cities, counties, CalTrans, and sanitation districts
Coordination of utility rearrangements, access, and permitting issues
Review of Public Utilities Commission (PUC) general orders
Regulatory compliance tied to transit and transportation corridor development
He also advised a nonprofit land conservancy on the acquisition of Conservation Easements to protect and manage critical wildlife and habitat areas, ensuring long-term environmental stewardship under local and state regulations.
Case Study: Legal Due Diligence for San Diego Gas & Electric
Mr. Pearman served as outside counsel providing real estate legal opinions for San Diego Gas & Electric’s $100–$300 million series of mortgage bonds. His role involved rigorous due diligence and legal analysis across a wide range of utility properties, including:
Power generation facilities (including nuclear sites)
Transmission line rights-of-way
Commercial buildings and office properties
Work included:
Examination of title records and trust indentures
Review of utility franchises and acquisition documents
Evaluation of personal property liens and environmental restrictions
This work was critical in ensuring full legal compliance with SEC requirements and facilitating a smooth public offering of the bond series.