Profile
AJ Smullen is a partner in the Austin Office of Naman Howell. His practice focuses on electric, telecommunication, and water utility transactions and regulation.
Prior to joining Naman Howell, AJ served as the Manager, Enforcement for the Texas Reliability Entity, where he supervised a team of attorneys in enforcement matters regarding FERC-approved Reliability Standards governing cybersecurity, planning, and real-time operations of the Bulk Power System.
AJ also previously worked at the Public Utility Commission of Texas, where he represented Commission Staff in complex contested case proceedings involving electric, telephone, and water public utilities; presided over telecommunications interconnection arbitrations under the Telecommunications Act of 1996; and advised Commissioners on the management of the Texas Universal Service Fund, which provides over $200 million in support annually to providers of telecommunications service in Texas.
Affiliations
Civic & Professional
State Bar of Texas, Public Utility Law Section
- Chair, 2024 – 2025
- Vice - Chair, 2023 – 2024
- Secretary/Treasurer, 2022 – 2023
Beyond the Law
In his spare time, AJ enjoys spending time with his spouse and two children, watching live music, roasting his own coffee, and playing tennis.
Capabilities
Admissions
- State Bar of Texas
Education
University of Texas School of Law, J.D., 2012
University of Texas at Austin, B.A. in History and Philosophy, 2008