Overview
Pat advises employers on workplace safety and health matters, drawing on decades of regulatory and legal experience.
As Co-Chair of the firm’s OSHA Practice Group, Pat represents clients in a wide range of occupational safety and health issues, including compliance counseling, inspections, enforcement actions, and litigation involving the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). His practice includes guiding employers through OSHA investigations and helping them implement proactive safety programs that align with regulatory standards and business operations.
Pat joined Constangy in 1986 following a 13-year career with the U.S. Department of Labor. He began in the Solicitor’s Office, where he served as an attorney representing OSHA, and later held several senior leadership roles within the agency, including Director of Compliance, Deputy Assistant Secretary, and two terms as Acting Assistant Secretary. His government background gives clients a distinct advantage when navigating enforcement and regulatory challenges.
Pat’s deep knowledge of OSHA enforcement strategies and regulatory priorities makes him a valued resource for employers across industries. He regularly advises on compliance audits, workplace accident response, and citation defense, and helps employers reduce risk and liability in safety-sensitive operations.
In addition to his legal work, Pat served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the National Safety Council, underscoring his long-standing commitment to advancing workplace safety nationwide. His insight, credibility, and practical approach have made him a trusted advisor to both corporate safety leaders and legal teams managing high-stakes OSHA matters.
Honors & Recognition
- Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Employment Law - Management (2007-2026)
- Chambers USA Guide® for Labor & Employment (2008-2024) and Occupational Safety and Health (2022-2025)
About Me
Pat enjoys boating and fishing in his free time.
Credentials
Education
University of Toledo
- J.D., 1973
Auburn University
- B.S., Business, 1970
Media
News
Legal Analysis
Professional & Civic Associations
Professional
- American Bar Association, Committee on Occupational Safety and Health Law
- National Safety Council, Former Chairman of the Board of Directors
- National Safety Council's Foundation for Safety and Health, Former Chairman of the Board of Trustees
- Virginia Bar Association
- Voluntary Protection Programs Participants' Association, Former Counsel
Industries
Admissions
- Virginia, 1973
"Well done is better than well said."
Benjamin Franklin
