Navigating the intricate legal framework governing municipalities and public agencies requires specialized legal expertise and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by government entities. For more than four decades, Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin (AGC) has provided trusted legal counsel to cities, school districts, counties, housing authorities, and other public entities throughout California. Our attorneys possess a comprehensive understanding of municipal law, offering a full range of services designed to meet the evolving needs of public agencies.
AGC’s attorneys have a unique specialty in municipal law, having served as city attorney for numerous municipalities throughout California. In this capacity, AGC has provided legal guidance on the entire spectrum of city operations, including counseling city councils and commissions, advising on public safety and law enforcement matters, overseeing public works and contracting, ensuring environmental compliance, and managing risk and defense against claims. Our attorneys handle a wide variety of regulatory and constitutional issues critical to the efficient functioning of California cities.
On a daily basis, AGC attorneys draft ordinances, resolutions, and contracts, responding to the legal questions of our public agency clients. As experts in the Brown Act, Political Reform Act compliance, and general municipal law, we ensure that our clients are well-equipped to handle any legal challenge.
Comprehensive, Cost-Effective Legal Services for Public Agencies
Under increasing pressure from state and federal mandates and often constrained by limited resources, public agencies must balance budgets, manage competing interests, and serve their communities efficiently. AGC’s attorneys work hand-in-hand with public entities to ensure that they successfully navigate legal complexities, governmental directives, and regulatory challenges, enabling them to focus on providing essential services to their communities.
We offer a comprehensive suite of legal services designed to meet the full range of needs that municipalities and public agencies encounter:
City Attorney Services
AGC provides full-service city attorney representation, including legal counsel on day-to-day city operations, regulatory compliance, and public administration. Our attorneys assist with Brown Act compliance, conflicts of interest, code enforcement, redistricting, open government, and Public Records Act compliance.
Public Contracting and Procurement
Public agencies must ensure that contracts comply with legal standards and protect their interests. AGC advises on public procurement, bid disputes, and contract negotiation, ensuring transparency and legal compliance in all public contracting activities.
Land Use, Zoning, and Environmental Regulations
AGC offers comprehensive counsel on land use and zoning matters, advising public entities on development, planning, and environmental compliance. Our firm ensures compliance with CEQA and other regulatory frameworks, supporting public agencies in managing real estate acquisitions, transactions, and public works projects.
Public Finance and Taxation
Managing public finance is crucial to effective governance. AGC provides legal guidance on debt issuance, public-private partnerships, fees, taxes, and assessments. Our firm is experienced in navigating the legal complexities of public finance, ensuring that municipalities can secure funding for public projects while adhering to legal requirements.
Police and Public Safety
AGC’s attorneys have extensive experience representing law enforcement agencies and public safety officials in matters involving employment disputes, civil rights claims, and use of force allegations. We assist public safety agencies with compliance and risk management strategies, ensuring that they meet the legal standards required to protect public safety.
Planning, Development, and Real Estate Issues
Our attorneys advise on economic development, real estate transactions, affordable housing, and land use planning. Whether negotiating development agreements or resolving zoning disputes, AGC ensures that municipalities comply with legal standards while promoting sustainable development.
Employment and Labor Law
Public agencies face numerous labor and employment challenges, including collective bargaining, employee discipline, discrimination claims, and compliance with state and federal labor laws. AGC’s attorneys provide expert legal counsel on all aspects of employment law, ensuring public entities resolve labor disputes efficiently and within the bounds of the law.
Public Records and Open Government Compliance
AGC assists public agencies in complying with the California Public Records Act (CPRA) and open meeting laws. We handle CPRA requests, ensure transparency, and develop strong legal defenses when necessary to protect sensitive information.
Leadership in Municipal Law
Municipal law is a core focus at AGC, and our attorneys are recognized leaders in the field. Our experience serving as city attorneys and general counsel to public entities throughout California has provided us with an in-depth understanding of the legal challenges cities face, from managing public resources and developing ordinances to addressing regulatory compliance and defending against litigation. AGC’s attorneys are well-versed in drafting ordinances, advising on constitutional and regulatory issues, and guiding municipalities through redistricting and electoral matters.
AGC’s commitment to public entities extends to providing proactive legal guidance on emerging issues. Our attorneys guide cities to implement forward-thinking solutions to new challenges, including environmental regulations, land use planning, and innovative public-private partnerships.
Protecting Public Entities in Litigation
When public agencies face legal disputes, AGC provides aggressive and experienced representation. Our litigation team has a proven track record in defending municipalities against claims related to civil rights, land use disputes, employment matters, and liability issues. AGC’s attorneys represent public entities in state and federal courts, administrative hearings, and alternative dispute resolution processes.
Our focus is on resolving disputes efficiently, minimizing disruptions to public operations, and safeguarding our clients’ interests. By utilizing preventive legal strategies and proactive risk management, AGC helps public entities avoid unnecessary litigation and address potential conflicts before they escalate.
Tailored Legal Solutions for Public Agencies
At AGC, we understand that each public agency is unique, facing distinct legal challenges and goals. That’s why we provide tailored legal solutions that align with the specific needs of our clients. Our attorneys work closely with city officials, boards, and public staff to develop legal strategies that address both short-term challenges and long-term objectives.
Whether serving as ongoing legal counsel, providing advice on complex legal matters, or representing municipalities in litigation, AGC’s attorneys are committed to delivering legal services that support the mission of public agencies and the communities they serve.
Preventive Legal Strategies and Risk Management
AGC’s approach to legal counsel emphasizes preventive strategies and risk management. We believe that by staying ahead of legal challenges, public agencies can operate more effectively and avoid costly disputes. Our attorneys provide ongoing legal training, conduct risk assessments, and offer proactive legal advice to help public entities navigate changes in regulations and legal standards.
From guiding cities through compliance with new state mandates to advising on regulatory changes in areas such as environmental law, public finance, and labor relations, AGC’s goal is to empower public agencies to make informed decisions that support their operational success.
Partner with AGC for Public Agency Representation
For more than four decades, Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin has been a trusted legal partner for public agencies across California. Whether you need day-to-day legal advice, support for large-scale public works projects, or representation in complex litigation, AGC’s experienced attorneys are here to help. Our commitment to providing innovative, effective, and cost-efficient legal solutions makes us the go-to firm for public agencies looking to achieve their goals while maintaining full compliance with the law.
Need Legal Counsel for Your Public Agency?
Contact Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin today to learn more about how we can provide the legal support your city, school district, or public agency needs to succeed.