Trusted Legal Counsel for Public Water, Wastewater Agencies, Water Wells and Irrigation Systems

Water authorities operate at the intersection of public service, environmental stewardship, and complex regulatory oversight. A Water Authority Attorney provides focused legal guidance to ensure compliance, protect public interests, and support the long-term sustainability of water and wastewater systems.

Our practice is dedicated to representing water authorities, utility districts, and related public entities with practical, strategic, and responsive legal counsel.

Comprehensive Legal Services

We advise water authorities on the full spectrum of legal issues affecting daily operations and long-term planning, including:

Regulatory Compliance & Environmental Law

  • Federal and state drinking water and clean water regulations

  • Permitting, enforcement actions, and compliance strategies

  • Coordination with environmental and public health agencies

  • Risk management and regulatory audits

Governance & Public Entity Counsel

  • Board governance and public meeting compliance

  • Ethics, conflicts of interest, and transparency requirements

  • Policy development and bylaw review

  • Open records and public information requests

Infrastructure, Construction & Procurement

  • Contract drafting and negotiation for capital improvement projects

  • Procurement laws and competitive bidding requirements

  • Public–private partnerships and alternative delivery models

  • Dispute resolution related to construction and engineering projects

Finance & Rate Matters

  • Legal support for rate setting and revenue structures

  • Bonds, financing agreements, and intergovernmental contracts

  • Grant and funding compliance

Real Estate & Water Rights

  • Easements, rights-of-way, and land acquisition

  • Water rights, allocation, and usage disputes

  • Asset protection and title matters

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

  • Representation in administrative hearings and court proceedings

  • Contract disputes and enforcement actions

  • Defense of regulatory and civil claims

  • Negotiation, mediation, and settlement support

Industry-Focused Experience

We understand the unique challenges facing water authorities, including aging infrastructure, funding constraints, evolving environmental standards, and increasing public scrutiny. Our approach blends deep legal knowledge with a practical understanding of utility operations and public governance.

By anticipating issues before they become problems, we help water authorities stay compliant, efficient, and focused on delivering safe and reliable water services to their communities.

Our Approach

  • Proactive Guidance: Identifying risks early and providing clear, actionable advice

  • Responsive Counsel: Timely support for boards, managers, and staff

  • Public-Service Mindset: Solutions aligned with transparency, accountability, and community trust

  • Long-Term Partnership: Legal strategies that support sustainable operations and growth

Serving Your Community with Confidence

Whether you require general counsel services or specialized representation for a specific project or dispute, our Water Authority Attorney team is committed to protecting your mission and supporting the communities you serve.

This website content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

To learn how we can support your public water, wastewater agency, water well, or irrigation system, please contact us to schedule a consultation.

ryan@ryanmarkslaw.com

(706) 968-7593

P.O. Box 5064

Athens, GA 30604