Local Government & Public Utilities
Comprehensive Legal Services for Governmental Entities
We are committed to delivering comprehensive legal services to local governments, helping them navigate the complexities of municipal law, regulatory compliance, and public policy matters. Whether advising on day-to-day operations or handling complex litigation, our team is prepared to serve as trusted counsel for governmental organizations of all sizes.
Our Legal Services for Governmental Entities
We assist governmental organizations with a wide range of legal issues, including:
• City Charters & Governance
• Civil Service Issues
• Contract Negotiation, Drafting, and Review
• Employment Policies and Practices
• Merit Boards and Employee Relations
• Municipal Annexation and Boundary Issues
• Open Records Act Lawsuits
• Ordinance Drafting and Interpretation
• Public Utilities Law and Regulation
• Taxation and Revenue Generation
• Tennessee State Laws and Local Regulations
• Zoning and Land Use Laws
Our attorneys are well-versed in both the practical and legal nuances of these issues, providing guidance to ensure that local governments meet their legal obligations while serving their communities effectively.
Day-to-Day Advisory and Complex Litigation
At Kramer Rayson LLP, we recognize that local governments often need timely and reliable legal advice on a variety of matters. Our firm provides ongoing advisory services, helping governmental bodies make informed decisions on issues such as zoning plans, public utilities, and the application of federal statutes to local operations. We also represent municipalities and counties in complex litigation, offering skilled advocacy in court and arbitration.
Representing Public Utilities
With decades of experience, Kramer Rayson LLP is a trusted advisor for public utilities in Tennessee. We provide general counsel and regulatory compliance services to utilities in areas such as wastewater treatment, electricity distribution, and water supply. Our attorneys assist with:
• Regulatory Compliance
• Employment and Labor Issues
• Contract Negotiations and Disputes
• Rate Setting and Ratepayer Issues
We offer public utilities the legal expertise they need to operate smoothly within the confines of state and federal regulations.
Addressing Public Policy Matters
Our firm is well-equipped to handle public policy matters, offering strategic counsel on issues that shape local and state governance. Areas of focus include:
• Regulatory Matters
• Lobbying and Advocacy
• Election Law
• Federal and Local Government Policies
Our attorneys have the experience to navigate complex political landscapes and advocate on behalf of government entities and the communities they serve.
Notable Cases and Successes
Municipal Annexation Dispute
We successfully represented a Tennessee municipality before the Tennessee Supreme Court in a high- stakes annexation dispute. The case, City of Harriman vs. City of Kingston, et al., involved two municipalities vying for control over the same territory. Our strategic legal approach led to a favorable outcome for our client, securing the annexation of the disputed land. (2011 Tenn. LEXIS 576)
Fair Labor Standards Act Case
In a landmark case involving more than 70 plaintiffs, we defended a Tennessee municipality against claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Our team conducted thorough discovery and crafted a dispositive motion that ultimately led to a favorable settlement, protecting the municipality from significant liability.
Contact Us Today
At Kramer Rayson LLP, we understand the unique challenges faced by municipalities and governmental entities. With decades of experience in municipal law and public policy, our attorneys are committed to helping you navigate the complex landscape of local governance and regulatory compliance.
