Local Government Affairs

The attorneys in Thompson O'Brien's Local Government Affairs Practice Group possess a broad expertise in representing the interests of local governments in court, in negotiations with other parties, and in an advisory capacity. For over 15 years, Thompson O'Brien has defended local governments against high profile lawsuits, through all aspects of the litigation including trial and defending appeals. In the cases the firm has tried, we have worked with numerous expert witnesses in a variety of disciplines and have successfully defended the interests of the government and its citizens. Our local government affairs practice includes:

•  Police liability - Thompson O'Brien has successfully defended law enforcement agencies and their officers against lawsuits filed by individuals who come in contact with the officers in the line of duty. Thompson O'Brien has litigated such cases in state and federal court and has been successful in defending the interests of such law enforcement officials in trials and on appeal. We are experienced in cases involving the use of force, including firearms, tasers, chemical agents, and other force; wrongful death; injured and death in custody; and accidents causing injury.

•  Employment discrimination - We represent local government employers in claims for sexual harassment discrimination under Title VII, wrongful discharge, race discrimination, ADA, and local government official defense and indemnification coverage. Thompson O'Brien's lawyers are experienced in defending such claims in administrative proceedings and in state and federal courts.  

•  Government Contracts -Thompson O'Brien has broad experience defending local governments against breach of contract claims brought by suppliers and vendors of local governments, as well as other contractual issues affecting local goverments.

• First Amendment - – The firm has defended local governments on First Amendment issues, particularly matters involving billboards and sign ordinances. Thompson O'Brien's local government attorneys are experts on First Amendment issues and are at the forefront of current legal developments in such areas.