Arizona Corporation Commission Congratulates General Counsel Thomas Van Flein on Nomination for Excellence in Law Finalist

Phoenix, Ariz. - The Arizona Corporation Commission today announced that its General Counsel, Thomas Van Flein, has been named one of five finalists for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards - Community Impact, recognizing attorneys who demonstrate exceptional legal skill, leadership, and contributions to the community and the legal profession.

The Executive Director, and Chairman of the Arizona Corporation Commission praised Van Flein's distinguished career in law, public service, and scholarship, noting that his nomination reflects decades of professional accomplishment across multiple jurisdictions. "Tom Van Flein has brought an extraordinary depth of legal experience and strategic insight to the Commission," Executive Director Doug Clark stated. "His career spans federal and state government service, complex litigation, academic scholarship, and leadership in the legal profession. We are proud to see his work recognized."

The Commission noted that Van Flein's recognition as an Excellence in Law finalist highlights not only his legal achievements but also his dedication to public service and the rule of law. ACC Chairman Nick Myers said, "Congratulations to Mr. Van Flein on being named a finalist for Excellence in Law. This recognition reflects not only his legal acumen, but also his commitment to public advocacy, his depth of knowledge, and his respect for the rule of law. It is an honor to have him as part of our team at the Arizona Corporation Commission."

In 2025, Mr. Van Flein was selected as the 2026 President of the National Conference of Regulatory Attorneys (NCRA). This conference is organized by the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) and the NARUC Subcommittee on Law in coordination with the NARUC Staff Subcommittee on Administrative Law Judges (ALJs). As a key part of this appointment, the Arizona Corporation Commission will serve as the location host for the NCRA conference in Phoenix, Arizona from May 3-6, 2026.

Prior to working at the Commission Van Flein started his law career at the international law firm of Paul Hastings in Los Angeles, where he focused on civil litigation and business law. He subsequently worked for and became a partner in the law firm Clapp, Peterson, Van Flein, Tiemessen and Thorsness, where he litigated both plaintiffs and defense cases to verdict. Van Flein has served in numerous prominent legal and public policy roles. Earlier in his career, he served as General Counsel to the Congressional Western Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, advising members of Congress on public lands, energy, and natural resource policy, and Chief of Staff to a U.S. Congressman. TIME magazine said that Van Flein is often the "first call for advice, political or legal."

His professional accomplishments extend deeply into legal scholarship and professional leadership. While attending the University of Arizona College of Law, Van Flein received the Best Oral Advocate Award and won the prestigious Fegtly Moot Court Competition. He later served as Editor-in-Chief of the Arizona Journal of International Law. While working in Alaska, Van Flein continued his leadership in the legal community. He served as Editor-in-Chief of the Alaska Bar Rag, published multiple law review and professional articles, and was appointed to the Alaska Supreme Court Rules Committee, where he contributed to the development and modernization of court procedures. He also served several years as President of the Alaska Inns of Court, helping mentor young attorneys and strengthen professionalism in the legal field.

The Excellence in Law Awards recognize leading attorneys across Arizona who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement, leadership, and community impact.