Public Law

Haynes and Boone’s Public Law practice revolves around the firm’s long-held commitment to civic participation and public service. The firm philosophy of service naturally led us to develop experience in public law projects and disputes. As the size and complexity of these projects and disputes continues to grow so will the need for legal representation by professionals with knowledge and experience in both the public and private sector. The Haynes and Boone Public Law attorneys offer their clients unsurpassed experience, knowledge, and relationships.

Our attorneys represent special districts, municipalities, and counties across Texas. Our private entity clients are engaged in infrastructure projects and litigation from Hidalgo to Harris County. We represent public and private entities in commercial litigation, public sector disputes, infrastructure projects and as general counsel.

Members of the Public Law Practice Group at Haynes and Boone include former county and district attorneys as well as current and past appointees for numerous county, municipal, and special purpose districts. Combining their public service and private practice, the Haynes and Boone lawyers fully understand the legal and political challenges facing governmental entities and the private companies that do business with them.

Like all Haynes and Boone representations, the Public Law Practice Group spans disciplines and offices. The teamwork attitude of Haynes and Boone means clients get access to each and every one of the more than 525 attorneys in the firm to address any changing legal needs. Our relevant experience is broad and includes the following areas of experience.

Commercial Litigation

• Contract and business tort disputes involving public projects
• Inverse condemnation actions
• Eminent domain and right-of-way acquisition

Public Sector Disputes

• Election contests and Ethics Commission disputes
• Constitutional tort litigation on behalf of prosecutors, officers, elected officials, and non-profits
• First Amendment litigation
• Bid protests on public projects
• Open Meetings, Public Information Act, and FOIA disputes
• Zoning and licensing challenges before administrative bodies
• Water rights disputes

Infrastructure Projects

• Public-Private Partnerships
• Stadium construction
• Toll-road construction, maintenance, and operation
• Light-rail construction
• Highway construction
• Financing

General Counsel

• Open meetings and public information counseling
• Housing authorities
• Planning and zoning
• Building codes and ordinances
• Municipal ordinances
• Public health
• Hospital districts
• Sports and convention corporations
• Emergency and disaster response
• Parks and recreation

Government Affairs

• Shape and advocate clients' public policy positions