Areas of Practice

The firm’s very first client was a local agency, and since then, MHWS has consistently served as general counsel for a variety of public agencies. From the Brown Act, to the Public Contract Code, to the Public Records Act, and everything in between, this firm has specialized in public agency representation. We provide the highest quality representation to governments, offering an array of litigation, regulatory, counseling, and planning services. MHWS attorneys have litigated eminent domain actions, negotiated real estate transactions and provided the required guidance to traverse Proposition 218 rate increases. From navigating board meetings, to addressing public employment issues, we have the expertise.

Our experience includes representing:

• Water Districts
• Joint Powers Authorities
• Transportation Districts
• Community Services Districts
• Recreation & Parks Districts
• Groundwater Sustainability Agencies
• Pest Control Districts

MHWS is equipped to handle a complex array of issues encountered by public agencies.

MHWS is dedicated to helping small businesses survive.  Being a small business ourselves, we understand the need for efficient and goal-oriented service.  Our experience in contract transactions, purchase and sale agreements, personnel, and wage and hour claims, give us the tools to effectively represent small businesses’ interests. Whether it be a real estate transaction, asset acquisition, or addressing a discrimination/harassment claim, we are here to help your business succeed. Our goal-oriented approach, and personal touch, will help you minimize liability and help your business thrive.

As Mark Twain said: “Whiskey is for drinking; water is for fighting over.” The simple fact is water is vital. Landowners, public agencies, and businesses must have uniquely qualified legal representation when it comes to legal matters involving water. Our firm is built on water law issues. MHWS has been involved in various Kern River water rights litigation for over 20 years. One of the preeminent water law firms in the state, we have successfully litigated groundwater adjudications, negotiated water sales, helped establish groundwater banks, and enforced groundwater quality and sustainability obligations. We represent several different Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, assisting with the drafting of Groundwater Sustainability Plans and compliance with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). Whether you need legal advice on a water well sharing agreement, or negotiating and formalizing a water transfer, MHWS has the expertise.

Our attorneys are able to assist with a wide variety of development and construction projects including public or private residential, commercial, alternative energy, or recreation projects. MHWS has built their reputation by building the necessary relationships to ensure that their clients’ objectives are met. With a goal-oriented approach, we are able to handle some of the most complicated projects in California. We have litigated numerous California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) cases, provided legal guidance with zoning and land use matters, assisted with water supply assessments and verifications, negotiated carbon sequestration projects, guided clients through LAFCo proceedings, and provided legal advice on matters relating to the Subdivision Map Act. We realize that projects face their own unique challenges and are able to come up with creative ways to satisfy the end goal.

Our clients include farmers and agribusinesses throughout the state who come to us for guidance on agricultural disputes and other legal matters. Leveraging our expertise in state farming policies and trends in the agricultural economy, we offer our clients advice, strategy, and representation during litigation when needed.

Kern County is the center of energy creation in the State of California, generating 24% of the State’s renewable energy and producing more than 70% of its oil and gas production.  Having extensive experience working for some of the largest renewable energy and oil and gas producers, our attorneys are experienced in representing clients in purchasing, leasing, permitting and operating renewable energy projects from wind and solar to oil and gas fields.  Our unique experience helps us understand how to best serve the needs of our clients, from landowners to operators.  We are also uniquely positioned to help clients understand carbon sequestration projects and protect their interests in this emerging market.