MUNICIPAL LAW

Shifman & Carlson, P.C. is a firm of dedicated attorneys specializing in the area of municipal law. The firm represents and advises municipalities on virtually all areas of the law affecting municipalities, from basic public sector issues such as Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Open Meetings Act (OMA) to more specialized issues including zoning, property tax assessments and appeals, labor, litigation, property acquisition, construction contracts, bidding issues, building and fire code matters, and historic preservation. The firm has represented municipalities in litigation in all courts and most administrative agencies. They have handled appeals dealing with constitutional issues, both state and federal. The firm has years of experience in drafting ordinances, negotiating contracts and trial work. In addition, the firm is qualified and experienced in municipal finance, including acting as bond counsel or note counsel on municipal borrowings. Many years of practical, hands-on experience have placed Shifman & Carlson, P.C. among the leaders in municipal representation.

EDUCATION LAW

Shifman & Carlson, P.C. has many years of experience representing and advising school districts on various aspects of education law. The firm represents clients on virtually all legal issues facing schools and school districts, from special education and student discipline to matters of school finance, bidding and contract matters, including construction contracts, building improvements, and school personnel. The firm is qualified and experienced in providing bond counsel and note counsel services to school district in connection with school bonds and state aid notes. Our attorneys stay abreast of the latest changes in education law including IDEA, ADA and No Child Left Behind. At Shifman and Carlson, P.C. we take pride in the representation we provide our clients and make every effort to ensure that they receive the best representation possible.

OTHER AREAS OF THE LAW (BUSINESS, PERSONAL, AND PROPERTY)

Shifman & Carlson P.C. also represents individuals, helping them to deal with a wide array of legal issues. One primary area of specialization is in the area of trusts and estates, beginning with drafting wills, setting up and administering trusts, as well as probating estates, testate or intestate, litigating estate claims, handling various other issues relating to estate administration. We also are equipped to handle most real estate transactions.

Shifman & Carlson, P.C. has a long history of representation of small businesses. We can assist in business organization and startup, real estate acquisition, franchising and labor issues, and other common legal issues arising day to day in the course of business.