Water is an indispensable resource that affects every aspect of life and governance. Access to safe, reliable water is fundamental to society, and its management, quality, and distribution are governed by a complex regulatory framework. Successfully navigating these challenges requires specialized legal expertise. At Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin (AGC), our Water Law practice provides comprehensive legal counsel to public agencies, municipalities, water districts, and other stakeholders helping them address the intricate legal and regulatory issues surrounding water management.
Expertise in Water Law
AGC’s water law practice is built on decades of experience and a deep knowledge of the laws and policies that govern water resources in California. We recognize that water law is a highly specialized field, intersecting with environmental law, public works, and land use planning. Our attorneys are well-versed in all aspects of water law, from water rights acquisition to regulatory compliance and litigation.
Water Rights Acquisition, Transfers, and Sales
AGC provides expert legal counsel to guide municipalities, developers, and businesses to acquire, transfer, and sell water rights. Our attorneys work to ensure that all transactions comply with both state and federal regulations, protecting our clients’ interests in negotiations and contractual structuring. Our experience spans all facets of water rights, including surface water, groundwater, and treated wastewater.
Regulatory Compliance and Permitting
Navigating the complex maze of water-related regulations is critical for public agencies and private entities alike. AGC offers legal guidance on regulatory compliance under laws such as the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), the Clean Water Act (CWA), the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act. We assist clients with obtaining necessary permits and complying with environmental mandates to avoid penalties and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources.
Water Rights Litigation
Disputes over water rights, whether groundwater, surface water, or wastewater reuse, can be contentious and high-stakes. AGC’s attorneys are experienced litigators, representing public agencies and private clients in both state and federal courts. We handle disputes over groundwater extraction, surface water diversion, and water transfers, working to secure favorable outcomes for our clients.
Water-Related Transactions and Infrastructure
Water law is deeply interconnected with real estate development, environmental compliance, and infrastructure projects. AGC provides strategic legal guidance on water-related transactions and infrastructure development, ensuring that our clients’ interests are safeguarded, and all projects comply with applicable legal standards.
Water Rights Transactions
AGC assists clients in the negotiation, purchase, sale, or lease of water rights, structuring contracts that are legally sound and meet state and federal standards. Our attorneys ensure that these transactions are completed efficiently and with full regulatory compliance, allowing for the secure use and allocation of water resources.
Public-Private Partnerships
For municipalities and public agencies seeking to upgrade or expand water infrastructure, AGC supports public-private partnerships that provide financial and operational solutions. Our attorneys help structure these partnerships to ensure they are legally robust and financially viable, enabling cities and water districts to meet their infrastructure goals while staying within budget.
Water Infrastructure Projects
Water infrastructure is critical to the delivery of safe and reliable water to communities. AGC’s attorneys provide legal guidance on all aspects of water infrastructure projects, including contract drafting, project financing, and compliance with environmental laws such as the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Whether it’s constructing new water treatment facilities or upgrading existing systems, AGC ensures that public agencies meet all legal and regulatory requirements.
Comprehensive Legal Services for Water Management
AGC’s attorneys are recognized for their expertise in addressing the broad range of issues related to water management. We provide counsel on everything from water rights acquisition and protection to compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, we work with public agencies to secure funding for water projects, including state and federal grants, and ensure that all aspects of water management are handled with precision.
Regulatory Compliance Across Water Sectors
AGC provides legal counsel on a wide array of regulatory matters, including permitting, compliance with the Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, and California’s Porter-Cologne Water Quality Act. Our attorneys are experienced in dealing with the complexities of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, stormwater management, and groundwater contamination issues.
Environmental and Water Quality Compliance
AGC’s Water Law practice is focused on helping public agencies, municipalities, and water districts ensure compliance with the intricate web of environmental laws that govern water use and quality. Our attorneys offer guidance on environmental remediation, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management, ensuring that public agencies meet state and federal environmental standards.
Proactive Water Law Strategies for Public Agencies
AGC’s Water Law practice emphasizes proactive strategies that prevent legal issues before they arise. Our team works closely with municipalities and public agencies to help them develop long-term water resource management plans, secure water rights, and implement effective regulatory compliance strategies. We also assist with developing water-related infrastructure, securing necessary permits, and mitigating potential risks through proper planning and foresight.
Public Water System Support
AGC supports public agencies in the management and operation of public water systems. From negotiating water supply contracts to securing federal and state funding for infrastructure projects, our attorneys provide the comprehensive legal counsel needed to ensure the sustainable operation of water systems.
Holistic Approach to Water Law
Water law often intersects with other areas of public law, including redevelopment, construction, environmental compliance, and legislative advocacy. AGC’s extensive experience in these areas allows us to provide a holistic approach to water law matters, ensuring that our clients receive well-rounded legal counsel. By leveraging our deep understanding of public law, we help clients navigate the complexities of water-related legal challenges.
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
In the event that disputes arise, AGC’s experienced litigation team is prepared to represent clients in water-related litigation and regulatory disputes. Our attorneys have a proven track record in resolving conflicts over groundwater extraction, water supply allocations, and environmental compliance.
Groundwater and Surface Water Disputes
AGC represents clients in disputes involving groundwater extraction, surface water diversion, and access to water sources. Our goal is to resolve these disputes efficiently while protecting our clients’ water rights and interests.
Regulatory Disputes
AGC’s attorneys are skilled in navigating regulatory disputes and defending clients against enforcement actions related to water management. We represent clients before regulatory agencies and in court, ensuring that their rights are upheld and that they remain compliant with all water-related laws.
Partner with Experienced Water Law Attorneys
Water is an essential resource, and managing it effectively requires legal expertise that is both comprehensive and forward-thinking. AGC’s Water Law practice is dedicated to providing the legal support necessary to protect water rights, resolve disputes, and navigate the complex regulatory environment that governs water resources. From securing water rights to guiding clients through complex infrastructure projects, AGC is the trusted legal partner for public agencies and water districts.
Contact Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin
If your public agency or municipality requires legal counsel for water law compliance, resource management, or infrastructure development, contact Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin today. We are ready to help you manage your water resources and navigate the legal challenges associated with water law.