Government / Administrative Law

Comprehensive and successful business law representation requires knowledge of and familiarity with the industry's applicable laws and regulations, and the ability to understand and work with the legislative or rulemaking process that impacts that industry.  At Fetherston Edmonds, LLP, our approach to representing businesses and insurance companies includes effective representation and advocacy in the areas of government and administrative law in Oregon and Washington at both the state and federal levels.

Some businesses come into contact with government administration only infrequently, such as when applying for a business license, seeking a variance from zoning restrictions to operate in a particular area or to make modifications to a building or develop real property.  Professionals licensed by the state may have their license suspended or revoked, pending the outcome of an administrative hearing.  These are critical moments in the life of a business or business professional, and knowledgeable advice and representation from a skilled and experienced practitioner can make all the difference. 

Other businesses interact with governmental agencies on a regular basis or operate in a heavily-regulated industry where the laws and rules are constantly changing.  For these clients we monitor the legislative process so that we are always on top of new laws and amendments as they are enacted, and rules and regulations that are promulgated by the various administrative agencies.  More than simply monitoring and keeping our clients abreast of legislative changes, we engage in effective government advocacy to help our clients play an influential role in the lawmaking and rulemaking processes.

Public Laws, Public Agencies

Our work in the area of government administration also includes representing public agencies.  For instance, our firm serves as general counsel for the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency and the Salem Area Mass Transit District.  This experience provides us with a unique perspective when helping business clients through bureaucratic or administrative processes.  Moreover, our comprehensive representation of businesses brings us into contact with local, state, and federal agencies in areas as diverse as environmental law and employment law.  For instance, our client's property may become a CERCLA/Superfund cleanup site, or their building emissions and effluents may be inspected and regulated under the Clean Air or Clean Water Act.  We may be called upon to defend an employer before the Department of Labor or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) involving a wage and hour or discrimination claim.

From preparing applications and appearing before boards and commissions, to litigation in administrative hearings and district court appeals, we provide effective advice and representation in government and administrative law throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley and beyond.