I have worked with him in municipal law cases since the early 1980's and find his approach, his logical analysis, his artful crafting of argument and position and, most importantly, his unflappable demeanor, an incredible asset.
– Ed Zelenak, City Attorney for Cities of Lincoln Park and Southgate

Municipal Law

The Plato Law Firm has extensive experience in municipal law and is available to serve your municipality in the areas of defending or pursuing litigation (including attending all hearings in court and administrative tribunals), drafting and revising zoning and general ordinances, creating municipal contracts, writing and implementing policies and regulations, reviewing and approving contracts, rendering legal opinions, advising municipal officials, Commissions and Committees, employment and labor relations, zoning matters, inter-municipal agreements, land use/planning, utilities, environmental compliance, construction, water/sewer matters, telecommunications and attending municipal meetings, when requested.

If municipal prosecutions are needed, The Plato Law Firm can provide attorneys with extensive expertise in prosecuting all civil infractions and misdemeanors for ordinance violations, conferencing with victims under the Victims' Rights Act, conducting pre-trial conferences, working with law enforcement officers, drafting motions and responses, handling formal court hearings and trials, and recommending revisions to local ordinances, where necessary.

Municipal Areas of Focus:

Litigation:

  • Police Practices and Emergency Medical Services Liability
  • Sewer & Drainage Districts
  • Zoning and Development Litigation
  • Civil Rights (42 USC §1983 & 1985)
  • Governmental Immunity
  • Employment (Discrimination, Harassment, Retaliation, Termination)
  • First Amendment Claims
  • Public Roadway & Sidewalk Liability
  • Public Building Liability
  • Governmental Vehicle Accidents
  • Open Meetings Act
  • Freedom of Information Act
  • Class Action Litigation

Land Use and Regulation:

  • Drafting and revising zoning and general ordinances
  • Land Use Regulation and Planning
  • Ordinance Enforcement
  • Utility Regulation
  • Governmental Compliance
  • Construction Permitting and Regulation
  • Telecommunications

General Municipal Matters:

  • Drafting and Revising Municipal Contracts
  • Drafting Municipal Policies and Procedures
  • Research and Rendering Legal Opinions
  • Risk Management and Analysis
  • Attending Meetings of Legislative Body and Committees
  • Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act

Labor and Employment:

  • Labor and Contract Negotiations
  • Drafting Employment Policies and Practices
  • Investigating Employment Claims and Practices
  • Defending Employment Claims, Including:
    • Wrongful Discharge Claims
    • Discrimination Claims
    • Harassment Claims
    • Retaliation Claims
    • Whistleblower Protection Claims
    • ADA Claims
    • FMLA Claims

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