Municipal Law

Areas of Focus

Civil Representation

Criminal Prosecution

Attorneys

Robert B. Bauer (Civil Representation)

Ashley M. Beard (Criminal Prosecution)

Ryan J. Bies (Criminal Prosecution)

Christine J. Cassellius (Criminal Prosecution)

Sharon K. Hills (Civil Representation)

Comprehensive Legal Counsel for Minnesota Cities

At Dougherty, Molenda, Solfest, Hills & Bauer P.A., our Municipal Law attorneys are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal counsel to cities and other municipal entities. We provide services in a broad range of municipal law areas, ensuring that our clients receive comprehensive and high-quality representation tailored to their unique needs.

Areas of Focus

Our Municipal Law practice encompasses a wide variety of legal areas, including but not limited to:

  • Land Use, Planning, and Zoning: Guiding cities through the complexities of land use regulations, zoning laws, and comprehensive planning.

  • Eminent Domain: Providing counsel and representation in cases involving the government's right to expropriate private property for public use.

  • Municipal Liability: Addressing issues of municipal liability, including risk management and defense against claims.

  • Administrative Law: Assisting with the regulatory and procedural aspects of municipal governance.

  • Civil Rights: Defending municipalities against civil rights claims and ensuring compliance with constitutional protections.

  • Constitutional Law: Advising on issues related to the interpretation and application of the constitution at the municipal level.

  • Criminal Prosecution: Representing municipalities in prosecuting violations of local ordinances and state laws.

  • Construction Law: Navigating the legal intricacies of municipal construction projects, including contract negotiation and dispute resolution.

  • Environmental Issues: Providing guidance on compliance with environmental regulations and addressing environmental concerns.

  • Assessment Appeals: Representing municipalities in appeals of property tax assessments.

  • Labor and Employment Issues: Advising on employment law matters, labor relations, and compliance with workplace regulations.

  • General Municipal Law: Offering a full spectrum of legal services to address the day-to-day legal needs of municipal entities.

Responsive and High-Value Representation

We pride ourselves on delivering responsive and high-value legal representation. Our attorneys work closely with a variety of municipal clients, including cities, townships, villages, counties, and special districts, to provide tailored legal solutions that meet their specific needs and objectives.

Litigation Services

Our litigation team is well-versed in handling municipal litigation across state and federal courts. Our capabilities include:

  • Tax Appeals: Representing municipalities in disputes over property tax assessments.

  • Relocation Benefits Appeals: Handling appeals related to relocation benefits for displaced individuals and businesses.

  • Eminent Domain: Litigating cases involving the condemnation of private property for public use.

  • Other Municipal Litigation: Addressing a wide range of legal issues that arise in the context of municipal governance and operations.

Collaboration and Full-Service Legal Support

Our Municipal Law attorneys leverage experience in other practice areas within our firm to provide a holistic approach to legal representation. This collaborative approach ensures that our municipal clients receive comprehensive legal support that addresses all facets of their legal needs.

Serving Minnesota's Municipalities

Dougherty, Molenda, Solfest, Hills & Bauer P.A. is proud to serve as general counsel to several Minnesota municipalities, including the cities of Apple Valley, Eagan, Coates, Lonsdale, and the Township of Castle Rock. Our deep understanding of the local legal landscape in Dakota County and the south metro, and our commitment to our municipal clients, underscore our reputation as trusted legal advisors.

Contact Us

For more information about our Municipal Law practice or to request a detailed firm résumé, please contact Robert Bauer.