Best Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Lawyers in Washington

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Fenwick & West LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1972
1,118 people in their team
English
Fenwick & West LLP provides comprehensive legal services to ground-breaking technology and life sciences companies - at every stage of their lifecycle - and the investors that partner with them. We craft innovative, cost-effective and practical solutions on issues ranging from venture capital,...
Pierce Atwood LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1891
298 people in their team
English
Pierce Atwood LLP is a highly-regarded full-service law firm based in New England, recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise in complex and class action litigation, energy production and distribution, midmarket mergers and acquisitions, information security and technology,...
Ice Miller LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1910
350 people in their team
English
Built on a foundation of legal service more than a century long, Ice Miller LLP is committed to helping our clients stay ahead in a changing world.Our diverse client base ranges from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies and from governmental entities to educational organizations and pension funds. We...

Founded in 1994
1,000 people in their team
English
WilmerHale is a leading, full-service international law firm with 1,000 lawyers located throughout 13 offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. Our lawyers work at the intersection of government, technology and business, and we remain committed to our guiding principles of:providing...
Bailey Glasser
Washington, United States

Founded in 1999
123 people in their team
English
Founded by Ben Bailey and Brian Glasser in 1999 in Charleston, West Virginia, Bailey Glasser has grown to include 76 lawyers, with 17 offices across the United States. The firm’s complex litigation practice focuses on high-stakes commercial litigation; class actions for consumers, insureds,...
Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1912
1,390 people in their team
English
worldwide advantageYOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.We serve...
BALCH & BINGHAM LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1922
439 people in their team
English
Balch & Bingham LLP is a corporate law firm with more than 230 attorneys across offices in Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Gulfport and Jackson, Mississippi; Houston, Texas and Washington, D.C. We are recognized for our deep experience serving...
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1968
707 people in their team
English
At Brownstein, “all in” isn’t just a catchy slogan or an empty claim. It’s an approach we apply to each challenge we take on. And an attitude that keeps our clients coming back, time and time again.This mentality inspires us to put everything in our arsenal to work for you. From our...
Stinson LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 2002
985 people in their team
English
Complex legal challenges are best approached with sharp insight and creative solutions. At Stinson, our attorneys combine industry knowledge and business acumen to deliver practical legal guidance to clients ranging from individuals to privately-held enterprises to international corporations. We...
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
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About Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Law in Washington, United States

Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) are collaborative agreements between government entities and private sector companies to finance, build, maintain, or operate projects traditionally managed by the public sector. In Washington, United States, PPPs are commonly used in infrastructure projects such as transportation, education, utilities, affordable housing, and technology development. The central aim of PPPs in Washington is to leverage private sector resources, expertise, and innovation to deliver public services and infrastructure more efficiently and cost-effectively. State and local governments establish the legal frameworks for these partnerships, ensuring that both public interests and private partner concerns are addressed within the regulatory environment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal counsel is often essential in the realm of Public-Private Partnerships, given the complexities involved. Individuals or companies may need a lawyer for several reasons:

  • Navigating complex contracts and agreements between public authorities and private entities
  • Ensuring compliance with state and federal procurement, financing, and regulatory requirements
  • Assessing risk allocation, financing structures, and project feasibility
  • Resolving disputes between partners or with third parties (such as subcontractors)
  • Advising on the interpretation of applicable laws, rules, and local ordinances
  • Assisting in bid preparation, proposal submissions, and negotiation processes
  • Handling issues of transparency, accountability, and public interest protections
  • Managing land use, zoning, or environmental law aspects

Given the significant investment and long-term obligations often involved, professional legal advice helps protect interests and ensures projects proceed smoothly.

Local Laws Overview

Washington has developed a statutory framework and set of administrative rules to govern PPPs in the state. Key laws and guidelines address procurement processes, project eligibility, transparency requirements, funding mechanisms, and oversight. The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) provides authority for certain types of public agencies to enter into PPPs, particularly in transportation, utilities, and educational infrastructure. Additionally, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) issues guidance for PPP projects, and municipalities may pass their own ordinances supporting local initiatives.

Requirements often include competitive bidding, public hearings, environmental impact reviews, and provisions for accountability and performance monitoring. The state also aligns with certain federal PPP rules when projects include federal funding. Overall, the legal context is designed to foster collaboration while safeguarding public assets and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of projects use Public-Private Partnerships in Washington?

Common projects include highways, bridges, public transit, water and wastewater facilities, schools, affordable housing, and energy infrastructure.

Who can participate in PPP projects in Washington?

Private companies, such as construction firms, service providers, or investors, can partner with state agencies, municipalities, or other public entities authorized under state law.

How are PPP projects procured in Washington?

Most PPPs in Washington follow competitive procurement processes, including requests for proposals (RFPs), bids, and negotiations, overseen by relevant state or local agencies.

Are there specific laws that govern PPP contracts in the state?

Yes, the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) contains specific provisions authorizing certain public agencies to enter into PPPs. Local ordinances and agency rules may also apply.

What are the primary risks involved in PPPs?

Risks can include changes in law or policy, cost overruns, construction delays, unforeseen environmental impacts, and disagreement over contract interpretation or performance.

How is public interest protected in these partnerships?

Washington law requires public participation, transparency measures, performance standards, and sometimes independent oversight for PPP projects to protect public interests.

What is the typical duration of a PPP agreement?

Depending on the project, PPP agreements may last from a few years to several decades, reflecting the time needed to finance, construct, and operate the asset or service.

Can PPP projects receive federal funding in Washington?

Yes, many PPP projects are eligible for federal funding and must comply with corresponding federal requirements and oversight procedures.

How can PPP disputes be resolved?

Disputes are often resolved through alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration, though contract litigation in state or federal court is also possible.

Do smaller government agencies or cities use PPPs?

Yes, cities, counties, and other local governments in Washington can establish PPPs, provided they follow relevant laws and have authority under local ordinance or state law.

Additional Resources

Individuals and businesses seeking more information on Public-Private Partnerships in Washington can consult the following:

  • Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) - Public-Private Partnership Office
  • Washington State Department of Commerce - Infrastructure and economic development programs
  • Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) - Information on local government PPPs
  • Office of the State Treasurer - Financing guidance and best practices
  • U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal resources for PPPs and infrastructure
  • Local city and county government offices
  • Legal associations, such as the Washington State Bar Association

Next Steps

If you are considering becoming involved in a Public-Private Partnership in Washington, it is wise to consult with an attorney experienced in PPPs. A lawyer can explain your rights and obligations, review or prepare contracts, and support you throughout the procurement and negotiation process. Start by identifying attorneys or law firms with expertise in government contracting, infrastructure law, or real estate development. Prepare your questions and documents before your consultation for maximum efficiency. You may also contact the resources listed above for preliminary guidance or referrals.

Taking these steps will help you make informed decisions and protect your interests in any PPP-related matter.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Washington through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.