Governmental Law
WHWW’s governmental law experience dates back to the 1930s, when one of our founding partners served as City Attorney for the City of Winter Park. Since then, WHWW has represented both public and private sector clients, including, multiple local municipalities, governmental agencies, and developers. Whether you are navigating public administration, land use, eminent domain, public finance, or any other aspect of governmental operations, our team is equipped with the knowledge and experience necessary to handle the complexities of this dynamic sector.
Public Administration and Governance
Our firm has a proven track record in advising clients through all stages of public administration and governance including representation on behalf of and before various governmental agencies including City Councils, County Commissions, Code Enforcement Boards, Development Review Committees, Community Redevelopment Agencies, Boards of Zoning Adjustment, Water Management Districts, and Planning and Zoning Boards. From drafting and reviewing ordinances, resolutions, and policies to ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, we ensure that our clients' interests are protected and their objectives are met efficiently and effectively.
Land Use and Zoning
Navigating land use planning and zoning regulations requires expertise in both legal and administrative processes. We excel in providing counsel on land use and zoning matters, representing clients in zoning hearings, planning commission meetings, and other administrative proceedings. Whether assisting with comprehensive plan amendments, annexations, developer agreements, plats, variances, or special exceptions, our team is dedicated to safeguarding our clients' rights and advancing their goals.
Public Contracts and Procurement
Drafting and negotiating public contracts are fundamental to efficient governmental operations. Our attorneys guide clients through the procurement process, ensuring compliance with competitive bidding laws and regulations. Whether drafting requests for proposals and requests for qualifications or addressing bid protests and contract disputes, we prioritize protecting our clients' interests and achieving optimal outcomes.
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Resolving disputes involving governmental entities requires a balanced approach that combines legal strategy with practical solutions. Our firm handles litigation and dispute resolution with a focus on achieving swift and effective results, whether through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. We represent clients in matters related to land use, contract issues, employment disputes, and more.
At WHWW, the experience and reputation gained during our firm’s early years of public service continue on today and enable us to provide quality legal services and tailor our legal strategies to align with our public and private clients' objectives and operational priorities. Whether representing the public or private sector, we provide proactive legal guidance that anticipates challenges and capitalizes on opportunities in the public sector. We invite you to explore how our specialized expertise can empower your operations and initiatives.
Government & Municipal Law Attorneys
Frequently Asked Questions
Don’t see your question answered here? Contact us and speak with a member of our team today!
Governmental law encompasses legal issues related to the operation of government entities, including municipalities, counties, and state agencies. It involves the interpretation and application of laws and regulations that govern public administration, advising on public administration, governance, compliance with state and federal regulations, and representing clients before governmental bodies such as City Councils and County Commissions. Governmental law deals multiple issues, including, zoning and land use, statutory interpretation, public finance, environmental law, labor relations, public procurement, administrative law, and constitutional law issues. Each of these areas involves unique legal challenges and requires a thorough understanding of relevant statutes, regulations, and case law.
Common legal issues include rezoning requests, variances, special exceptions, site plan approvals, and disputes over land development regulations and comprehensive plans. Often these disputes are between developers and local government. These issues often involve complex legal and procedural considerations, requiring careful analysis and advocacy to resolve. Consulting with a governmental law attorney can help you navigate this process effectively.
You may challenge a local government decision or ordinance through administrative appeals, judicial review, or by filing a lawsuit in state or federal court. Consulting with a governmental law attorney can help you understand the best approach for your specific situation.
We handle litigation and dispute resolution with a focus on achieving effective results through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Our firm represents clients in matters related to land use, contract issues, employment disputes, and other conflicts involving governmental entities.
Florida's Sunshine Laws are designed to ensure transparency in government by requiring that meetings of public bodies are open to the public and that records are accessible. This ensures transparency and public participation in government decision-making. Violations of these laws can result in invalidation of decisions made in closed meetings, fines, and other penalties. These laws are found in Chapter 286 of the Florida Statutes.
The Florida Public Records Act, found in Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, mandates that all public records must be available for inspection and copying by any person, subject to certain exemptions.
Public procurement processes are regulated by state and local laws that set forth procedures for bidding, awarding contracts, and ensuring transparency and fairness in the procurement of goods and services.
Examples of constitutional law issues include challenges to the constitutionality of local ordinances, such as those regulating speech, assembly, or property use. Local governments might also face due process claims related to administrative actions, equal protection claims regarding discriminatory practices, and First Amendment challenges involving public forums and religious displays.
Annexation is the process by which a municipality extends its boundaries to include additional territory. The process involves public hearings, approval by the governing body, and compliance with state laws governing annexation procedures. Legal hurdles may include opposition from affected property owners, compliance with statutory procedures, and potential challenges in court.
Our firm's experience dates back to the 1930s, with a history of representing both public and private sector clients, including municipalities, governmental agencies, and developers. This dual experience allows us to provide tailored legal strategies that align with our clients' objectives and operational priorities.