Municipal Law

Local governments operate in a highly regulated environment, balancing the needs of residents, businesses, and public agencies while complying with complex state and federal laws. Boroughs, townships, authorities, school districts, and municipal boards face decisions every day that carry significant legal, financial, and operational consequences. From drafting ordinances to managing public safety concerns to overseeing land development, municipalities require experienced legal guidance that is both practical and responsive.

At Joyce, Carmody & Moran, our municipal law attorneys provide comprehensive legal counsel to government entities across Pennsylvania. We understand the unique challenges public officials face — limited budgets, public scrutiny, evolving regulations, and time-sensitive demands — and we deliver clear, actionable advice to support effective governance. Whether you need ongoing solicitor services, specialized representation for a particular issue, or support navigating a high-profile dispute, our team is equipped to help municipalities operate confidently, efficiently, and in full compliance with the law.

We pride ourselves on being accessible, knowledgeable, and solutions-driven. Our attorneys attend public meetings, work directly with municipal staff, assist with policy development, and represent municipalities in negotiations, administrative hearings, and court proceedings. Above all, we understand the importance of maintaining public trust and helping elected officials make decisions rooted in transparency, legality, and the best interests of their communities.

Our Municipal Law Services Include:

General Solicitor Services

We serve as day-to-day legal advisors for townships, boroughs, and other public entities, providing guidance on:

• Drafting and interpreting ordinances, resolutions, and policies

• Advising elected officials and boards on governance and compliance

• Reviewing contracts, procurement processes, and intergovernmental agreements

• Ensuring adherence to the Sunshine Act, Ethics Act, and Right-to-Know Law

• Attending public meetings to advise on real-time legal questions

Our practical approach helps municipalities operate efficiently while reducing legal exposure.

Zoning, Land Use & Development

Zoning and planning decisions shape the future of every community. We assist municipalities with:

• Drafting and updating zoning ordinances, SALDO provisions, and comprehensive plans

• Reviewing subdivision, land development, and conditional use applications

• Representing municipalities before zoning hearing boards

• Defending zoning decisions in trial and appellate courts

• Advising on redevelopment projects, variances, and special exceptions

We ensure land-use decisions are compliant, consistent, and defensible.

Code Enforcement & Compliance

Effective code enforcement promotes safety, property maintenance, and community standards. Our services include:

• Advising code officers and inspectors on enforcement actions

• Drafting citations, notices of violation, and enforcement procedures

• Litigating nuisance, property maintenance, and zoning enforcement matters

• Addressing issues involving short-term rentals, unsafe structures, and business compliance

• Assisting with administrative hearings and district court proceedings

We help municipalities enforce their codes fairly and successfully.

Municipal Employment & Labor Issues

Public employees present unique legal challenges governed by specific statutes and collective bargaining requirements. We counsel municipalities on:

• Hiring, discipline, termination, and personnel policies

• Police and fire department employment issues

• Collective bargaining, contract negotiations, and grievance arbitration

• FMLA, ADA, and workers’ compensation matters

• Employee handbook creation and updates

Our goal is to help municipalities maintain compliant and effective workforce practices.

Public Safety, Police & Emergency Services

Public safety is central to municipal operations. We provide legal support involving:

• Police department policies, discipline, and internal investigations

• Use-of-force reviews and risk management

• Emergency services agreements, mutual aid, and fire company governance

• Civil rights claims, Section 1983 litigation, and qualified immunity defenses

• Police contract negotiations and Act 111 arbitration

We help municipalities navigate sensitive and high-risk issues with clarity and confidence.

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

When disputes arise, municipalities need experienced counsel familiar with governmental immunity, statutory protections, and public-sector litigation. We represent municipalities in:

• Civil rights defense and constitutional claims

• Tort liability cases and governmental immunity issues

• Contract disputes and public procurement challenges

• Land-use appeals and zoning litigation

• Environmental, stormwater, and infrastructure-related disputes

Our attorneys work to resolve conflicts efficiently while protecting public resources.

Committed to Strong, Effective Local Government

At Joyce, Carmody & Moran, we are committed to supporting municipalities in their mission to serve their communities with integrity and professionalism. We provide accessible counsel, timely responses, and dependable representation — giving municipal leaders the guidance they need to make informed, legally sound decisions.

Whether your municipality needs ongoing solicitor services or assistance with a specific legal matter, our team is prepared to help you navigate the complexities of public-sector law with confidence.