Government and Public Finance

Many businesses and government entities are faced with navigating the intricate tangle of law and regulation when transacting business or obtaining financing for public projects and public-private partnerships. Barnes & Thornburg attorneys and lobbyists represent and advocate the interests of businesses, government and trade associations at the federal, state and local levels. We advise on the full range of regulatory and administrative, lobbying and government finance matters by serving as diligent advisers and effectual problem solvers.

Our firm is committed to achieving each client’s goals, rather than creating legal obstacles. Our ability to understand the workings of the government, in addition to frequent interactions with federal, state and local officials, is supported by our long history of creative solutions and clear, actionable paths to achieving the right end.

We work diligently with clients to conceive and draft legislation, spearhead testimony before Congressional and state legislative committees on critical issues, and advise on state and local economic development and redevelopment initiatives. In Washington, D.C., we focus on federal relations, lobbying, regulatory, political action committee formation, and administrative matters. We are also appreciated for representing government agencies at the state level — especially in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio — advising on procurement, municipal utilities, annexation, government reorganization, labor and employment, student discipline and eminent domain.

In addition, our firm serves as bond counsel for underwriters, issuers, borrowers, credit providers, trustees and investors in a range of government financings. We also assist state instrumentalities, bond banks, counties, cities, towns, townships, school corporations, special taxing districts, private enterprises, nonprofit organizations and government officials in both traditional and highly complex financings. This experience includes financing for construction and equipping of public buildings, correctional facilities, police and fire stations, public and private schools, libraries, sewage and water works, highways, roads, streets and bridges, airports, manufacturing and solid waste disposal facilities, housing and retirement communities, hospitals and other healthcare facilities.