MUNICIPAL & GOVERNMENT

The attorneys in our firm practice in the State, Local & Municipal Law area have expertise and knowledge in the areas of powers and liabilities of state and local government and municipal corporations, including matters such as land use and zoning issues, municipal employment disputes, and injuries to person or property by municipal employees.

New Point Law Firm works with municipal governments advising the city councils, on all aspects of city governance. Our deep understanding of city government is valuable for our clients who need local government approvals. Local government touches the lives of every Iowan every day.  It is important that city government be operated well and efficiently.  The attorneys in our firm who practice municipal law areas have experience and hands-on expertise in city government, including work as city attorney and direct involvement in planning, zoning, platting, and similar issues both for cities and for clients dealing with local government.

The city attorney typically advises the city council members, mayor, and city clerk and other members of the city administration on all aspects of city governance.  The city attorney will usually review all city contracts, prosecute criminal complaints and municipal infractions, advise on employment, assist in the exercise of eminent domain (condemnation proceedings), draft resolutions and ordinances, review and advise on subdivision planning and development, public improvements, and zoning.  In addition, the city attorney is the advisor for the city's various boards and commissions, such as the library board, zoning board of adjustment, and planning and zoning commissions.  We also act as "outside counsel" for cities who require extra help for special projects, such as negotiations with rural water districts.

Our understanding of city government is also valuable for our clients who need assistance in projects that require local government approvals, particularly in dealing with land development issues.