About John
John C. Lacy is an attorney based in Tucson, Arizona, specializing in mining and public land law. Since 1977, he has been a shareholder at DeConcini McDonald Yetwin & Lacy P.C., where he focuses on mineral rights acquisition, title matters, and water rights. His legal expertise extends to representing telecommunications clients and managing international mineral transactions. Notably, Mr. Lacy played a significant role in revising Bolivia's mining laws and translating Mexico's mining regulations, showcasing his global impact in the field. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Lacy has made substantial contributions to academia — Since 1976, he has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona.
There, he teaches courses in mining and public land law, oil and gas law, and mining transactions. His commitment to education was further recognized in 2015 when he was appointed the first director of the Global Mining Law Center at the James E. Rogers College of Law. In this role, he oversees both online and in-residence programs, enhancing the educational landscape for future mining law professionals. Mr. Lacy's contributions to mining law education have not gone unnoticed — In 2015, he received the Clyde O. Martz Teaching Award from the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation, honoring his dedication to teaching and mentorship. His expertise is further reflected in his numerous publications on mineral rights and law history, including a significant section of the "American Law of Mining, 2d," published by the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation.
These works have become essential resources for practitioners and scholars alike. Leadership roles have also marked Mr. Lacy's career. He has served as the past president of both the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation and the Arizona Historical Society. His influence in the mining law community was recognized in 2018 when he was inducted into the American Mining Hall of Fame by the Mining Foundation of the Southwest. This prestigious honor shows his lifelong commitment to advancing the field of mining law. Mr. Lacy's academic and professional journey began at the University of Arizona, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in 1964 and his Juris Doctor in 1967.
Following his education, he served as a U.S. Army Captain in the Judge Advocate General's Corps from 1968 to 1972. He is a member of the Arizona State Bar and has been admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Claims. With decades of experience and a deep dedication to mining law, Mr. Lacy has established himself as a respected figure in both legal and academic circles.
