Sarah Hugues
- Boise
- Anchorage
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Sarah assists clients in navigating the complex challenges of federal and state environmental laws and regulations.
Sarah A. Hugues is an experienced legal advisor with a focus on environmental, energy, and natural resources law, and has extensive experience in real estate, land use, state government contracting, and water law, particularly in the energy and mining sectors. She supports clients through project development and real estate transactions by ensuring regulatory compliance and obtaining required approvals. She also has significant experience with transmission line and renewable energy projects, advising on planning, permitting, and stakeholder coordination.
Sarah's knowledge of water law includes water rights, water quality, and water resource management. She represents clients in negotiations with regulatory agencies and in disputes over water usage and rights.
Additionally, Sarah has a strong background in Federal Indian law, guiding clients through tribal and treaty-related issues, including economic development on tribal lands, compact negotiations, the fee-to-trust process, tribal sovereign immunity, and compliance with requirements surrounding cultural resources, including the National Historic Preservation Act.
Education & Credentials
Education
- University of Idaho College of Law, J.D., 2017
- Idaho State University, B.A., 2013
Bar and Court Admissions
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Idaho
-
Alaska
Related Employment
- Idaho Court of Appeals, Boise, ID, Law Clerk to Hon. Chief Judge David W. Gratton
- Idaho Court of Appeals, Boise, ID, Law Clerk to Hon. Judge Amanda Brailsford
- Office of Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter, Boise, ID, Associate Legal Counsel
Professional Recognition
Listed in "Accomplished Under 40" by Idaho Business Review, 2023
Selected as a "Leader in Law" by the Idaho Business Review, 2023
Recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for Energy Law, 2025
Impact
Professional Leadership
- American Exploration & Mining Association – Native American Relations Committee, Member
- The Idaho Chapter of Women in Mining, Member
- Idaho State Bar, Environment & Natural Resources Law Section, Vice Chair
- Attorneys for Civic Education, Member
Community Involvement
- Idaho Botanical Garden, Board Member; Board Secretary
- American Bar Association’s Year in Review, Endangered Species Committee, Vice Chair
