Business Details
Trusted Municipal Law Services in Dallas, TX
Nichols Jackson is a Dallas-based law firm with roots dating back to 1895. Our practice has evolved over decades to focus exclusively on public service and municipal law, representing cities, towns, appraisal districts, economic development corporations, and transportation authorities. We prioritize the needs of local governments, offering specialized legal counsel that aligns with the interests of communities and their citizens. Our team of 14 full-time attorneys and dedicated support staff brings deep expertise in critical areas such as economic development, open government, and eminent domain. We maintain a commitment to unbiased advice, avoiding political influence while ensuring compliance with legal standards.With decades of experience serving municipalities, we act as an extension of city staff, providing operational guidance and strategic counsel. Our local presence allows us to address the unique challenges faced by regional political subdivisions. We pride ourselves on accessibility, offering large-firm resources with the personalized approach of in-house counsel. Our goal is to deliver efficient, results-driven solutions that uphold the responsibilities of local governments to their communities. For over a century, Nichols Jackson has remained steadfast in its mission to promote sustainable, healthy communities through dedicated public service.
Services
Economic Development
Open Government
Planning and Zoning
Employment and Labor Law
Real Estate Law
Municipal Prosecutions
Litigation
Government Procurement
Tax Appraisal
Eminent Domain
Highlights and features
- We have over 125 years of experience in municipal law.
- Our team includes 14 full-time attorneys with specialized expertise.
- We provide unbiased legal advice free from political influence.
- Our local presence ensures deep understanding of municipal needs.
- We offer 24/7 accessibility with large-firm resources and personalized service.
What people say
Proven expertise
Responsive communication
Deep local knowledge
Unbiased counsel
Decades of experience
Services
Economic Development
We guide municipalities in creating sustainable economic strategies. Our attorneys draft ordinances, negotiate incentives, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Clients benefit from tailored legal frameworks that attract investment while protecting public interests.
Open Government
Our firm advises on compliance with open meetings and public records laws. We help governments balance transparency requirements with operational efficiency. Services include policy drafting, staff training, and litigation defense to maintain public trust.
Eminent Domain
We represent municipalities in condemnation proceedings for infrastructure projects. Our team ensures fair compensation processes while defending against legal challenges. Clients receive strategic counsel on statutory compliance and dispute resolution.
Municipal Prosecutions
Nichols Jackson provides prosecution services for city ordinance violations. We handle cases ranging from code enforcement to traffic offenses, ensuring consistent application of local laws while protecting municipal liability.
Tax Appraisal
We represent appraisal districts in disputes over property assessments. Our attorneys handle litigation, administrative appeals, and policy development to ensure equitable valuation practices that support municipal revenue systems.
People
Braden W. Metcalf
Equity Partner
Braden W. Metcalf specializes in municipal governance and economic development. With over 20 years of experience, he advises cities on legal compliance and strategic growth initiatives.
David M. Berman
Equity Partner
David M. Berman focuses on open government laws and public finance. He has represented municipalities in complex litigation involving transparency statutes and bond issuances.
Joseph J. Gorfida Jr.
Equity Partner
Joseph J. Gorfida Jr. handles zoning regulations and land use disputes. His expertise includes drafting municipal codes and representing cities in development-related litigation.
Peter G. Smith
Equity Partner
Peter G. Smith specializes in labor law for public entities. He negotiates collective bargaining agreements and defends municipalities against employment-related claims.
Victoria W. Thomas
Partner
Victoria W. Thomas focuses on eminent domain and property law. She represents cities in condemnation proceedings and advises on real estate transactions for public infrastructure.
Questions
What areas of law does Nichols Jackson specialize in?
We focus exclusively on municipal law, including economic development, zoning, open government, tax appraisal, and eminent domain cases.
Do you represent private developers or businesses?
No, we primarily serve cities, towns, and government entities to avoid conflicts of interest with municipal clients.
How long has the firm been in operation?
Nichols Jackson traces its origins to 1895, making it one of the oldest continuously operating law firms in Texas.
What sets your firm apart from other municipal law practices?
Our attorneys combine century-long institutional knowledge with hands-on operational support for city staff and leadership.
Are your services available outside Dallas County?
While based in Dallas, we represent municipalities across Texas, including Denton County and other regional political subdivisions.
