A lifelong Vermonter, Joe Mclean sees something unique in the way the state’s municipal entities operate. In his view, local government in Vermont isn’t as much about politics as it is about controlling quality of life.

“With a few exceptions, the people with whom we work on a daily basis aren’t career politicians, they’re small business owners, farmers, and others who are just trying to make their communities better places to live, work, and raise kids. That’s something that resonates with everyone at the firm. In a large sense, we see what we do as rolling up our sleeves and helping the democratic process along.”

When conflicts arise that cannot be resolved through compromise, Joe is well experienced in guiding municipalities and other governmental entities through the complexities of litigation. He has represented Vermont municipalities before the United States District Court, the Vermont Supreme Court, the Vermont Environmental Court, and before administrative boards and tribunals, including the Public Service Board, the Water Resources Board and the Environmental Board.

Joe's recent experience includes the representation of four Vermont municipalities impacted by a large public utility transmission project. He also assists on education law litigation matters, advises local boards and commissions, and addresses general municipal matters, including open meeting law and public records act questions.