Municipal & Local Government

Since the establishment of the firm in 1885, Axley has consistently and successfully represented municipalities and school districts within Wisconsin. Over the years, our representation has extended from general municipal matters to complex litigation. Our experience and knowledge regarding the unique issues and circumstances that municipalities and school districts routinely confront prove to be invaluable in obtaining results favorable to our municipal clients. Furthermore, through first-hand experience, our municipal and local government attorneys bring a unique understanding to this area of law.

 Axley municipal and local government attorneys have developed significant knowledge and expertise in:
  • Real estate development
  • Public finance
  • Tax incremental districts
  • Land use and zoning
  • Municipal prosecution
  • Ordinance drafting and enforcement
  • Sewer, water and storm water utilities
  • Litigation/defense

With respect to litigation, we understand that lawsuits and administrative procedures are generally exceptions to the daily responsibilities of municipalities and school districts. This means that our goal is to work closely with municipal and school district administrators and their respective counsel to bring litigation matters to a prompt resolution. We take responsibility for the litigation, which then enables administrators to focus on their daily work of delivering services to the public and education to constituents.

The following is a representative list of examples of litigation we address for municipalities and school districts:
  • Open records/open meeting lawsuits
  • Section 183 civil rights claims or discrimination claims, including claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination and Employment Act (ADEA) and Title 7 of the Civil Rights Act
  • Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) claims
  • Constitutional claims, including First Amendment free speech claims, search and seizure claims and excessive force claims
  • Non-renewal of teacher and administrator contracts for school districts

Municipal & Local Government Attorneys

Client Successes

Representation of Municipal Entities
Representation of municipal entities concerning annexations, inter-governmental cooperation, public works projects, public financing, utility regulation and tax incremental financing matters
Dismissal - Federal Lawsuit - Liquor License
Obtained dismissal of federal lawsuit filed by tavern against City that refused to issue liquor license because of prior problems with its license

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