Jay Griffith is a partner at Kell, Alterman & Runstein, L.L.P. where his practice centers on complex litigation, including Superfund litigation, state-law cleanup and allocation matters, and insurance coverage disputes. He also advises clients on a wide range of corporate and transactional matters, with a focus on mid-market mergers and acquisitions.
Jay joined the firm in 2016 after serving as in-house counsel for a large international steel manufacturer. There, he developed deep experience in CERCLA practice, managed high-stakes environmental insurance coverage claims, and led several corporate finance and M&A transactions.
With a strong foundation in environmental compliance and a strategic understanding of the business drivers behind acquisitions and divestitures, Jay plays a critical role in helping clients navigate complex transactions. He regularly leads M&A deals, including for multi-generational family businesses, and is known for his practical, solutions-oriented approach to transaction planning and execution. His work often involves managing deals with complicated environmental issues, multiple buyers, and significant operational upgrades.
Jay’s combined experience in litigation and transactional law gives him a unique perspective on risk, negotiation, and resolution, aligning legal strategy with his clients’ broader business objectives.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Politics from Willamette College and earned his J.D. from the Lewis and Clark School of Law, where he also completed a certificate in environmental law.
A Northwest native, Jay returned to Portland after practicing in-house in Chicago. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his family—hiking, biking, skiing, camping, and tackling home improvement projects.
