Alexandria parts ways with longtime legal partners, hires new law firm

Caleb Amick, The Herald Bulletin, Anderson, Ind.
·2 min read

Sep. 28—ALEXANDRIA — The City of Alexandria parted ways with long-time legal partners from Graham, Farrer and Wilson, an Elwood law firm, and hired Taft, Stettinius and Hollister, an Indy-based firm, that same day.

Economic Development Director Alan Moore explained the city's decision by saying Taft was a larger firm could handle cases in shorter order.

Per the letter signed by Mayor Todd Naselroad, the city will pay Taft a flat fee of $3,500 per month. The city paid its previous firm roughly $2,080 per month.

Taft's flat fee will cover an attorney's attendance at meetings, their assistance with preparing ordinances, consulting with the city administration regarding legal matters and routine travel.

The city could pay anywhere from $260 per hour for new associates to $750 per hour for senior partners and anywhere from $140 to $355 per hour for paralegals for any additional services. Such amounts are subject to change.

Moore said Clerk-Treasurer Darcy VanErman reviewed the engagement letter and was comfortable with the disclosed amounts.

VanErman was out of town and could not provide comment.

Taft attorneys Kyle Hupfer and Chou-il Lee are reviewing the city's legal affairs including ordinances and pending litigation, according to Moore.

Taft will be represented at the board of works and city council meetings on Oct. 2 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall and the planning commission meeting on Oct. 23 at 6 p.m. in the Emery Lee Building at Beulah Park.

Moore said while Alexandria is grateful for the work done by the previous firm. They hope the new firm will help them catch up on property issues and other items.

Follow Caleb Amick on Twitter @AmickCaleb. Contact him at caleb.amick@heraldbulletin.com or 765-648-4254.