Municipal Law & Government

BHPK Law is one of the leading municipal law firms in Massachusetts. Since 1995, we have defended well over half of the municipalities in the Commonwealth, as well as hundreds of municipal officials, boards, police officers, and other public employees. Our experienced attorneys regularly handle cases in both the state and federal courts, as well as before numerous state agencies, including the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (“MCAD”). We have had success in negotiating pre-litigation settlements or obtaining dismissals of cases for our clients at the pre-trial stage. If a trial or public hearing becomes necessary, however, our superb trial lawyers consistently obtain favorable verdicts after even the most complex trials. In addition, we have obtained numerous, precedent-setting appellate decisions in the area of municipal law.

Led by founding partner Leonard H. Kesten, BHPK’s attorneys are available to defend against all manner of civil lawsuits brought against a municipality, including those involving civil rights violations, employment issues (workplace discrimination and sexual harassment, among others), personal injury, and land use disputes.

We pride ourselves on providing practical guidance and economic solutions. Employment claims, for example, are the leading cause of litigation for municipalities. Land use disputes can also be exceedingly costly, fact-intensive, and often require a trial. At BHPK, we understand that the needs of each client are unique, and we work diligently to create individual solutions that truly address our clients’ concerns. Our goal is to resolve issues quickly, effectively, and efficiently for the most favorable results, so that our clients can return to business as usual.