MUNICIPAL LAW
General
Our expertise in public agency governance extends to drafting legislation and accompanying documentation, conducting conflict of interest reviews, and ensuring compliance with ethics and regulatory reporting requirements. We also offer comprehensive guidance on Brown Act requirements and assist with Public Records Act requests.
Navigating land use regulations can be complex, but our team is equipped to handle all aspects, including zoning, annexation, and development agreements. We also provide support for land use entitlements, exactions, and mitigation fees to ensure smooth project development.
Environmental regulations are a critical consideration in any project. We specialize in CEQA and NEPA compliance, helping clients navigate the intricate landscape of environmental regulations seamlessly.
From public works contracting to ensuring compliance with affordable housing requirements and ADA regulations, our team offers comprehensive legal support to ensure your projects meet all necessary standards.
Our expertise extends to personnel matters, including disciplinary appeal hearings, as well as post-redevelopment matters concerning successor agencies, oversight boards, and successor housing entities.
Special Projects
In addition to our core areas of practice, we are adept at handling special projects that require innovative solutions and strategic planning.
Election Law
Our firm specializes in election law, offering guidance on compliance with election laws and assisting with the conduct of municipal elections. We also conduct investigations regarding campaign contributions or elections matters and provide support with the initiative petition process, including the conduct of special elections.
Litigation
In the realm of litigation, we have a proven track record of success. Whether prosecuting or defending writs of mandamus relating to legislative actions or election proceedings, we provide vigorous representation to safeguard our clients’ interests.
Our litigation expertise also extends to matters relating to development entitlements, mitigation requirements, and environmental compliance documentation. We handle eminent domain cases, including initial preparation and project planning, as well as inverse condemnation matters.
Additionally, we prosecute code enforcement matters and provide legal support for pension reform initiatives.
Our team’s versatility allows us to tackle a wide range of legal challenges, providing tailored solutions to meet our clients’ needs effectively.

Subject Matter Experts

KENNETH H. LOUNSBERY
Practice Areas:
Land Use Acquisition, Land Development, Municipal Law, Eminent Domain, Private Election Remedies

HELEN HOLMES PEAK
Practice Areas: Municipal Law, Eminent Domain, Land Acquisition, Use and Development; CEQA/Environmental Compliance and Defense

CATHERINE FERGUSON
Practice Areas: Land Acquisition, Use and Development; Municipal Law, Environmental Law, CEQA/Environmental Compliance and Defense

JILL D. S. MALAND
Practice Areas: Municipal Law

PUNAM PARIKH PRAHALAD
Practice Areas: Municipal Law, CEQA Compliance and Defense

JACQUELINE PATERNO
Practice Areas: municipal law, land sales and acquisition, land use and development, and employment litigation
