#United States #Law Firm #Public Finance #Barnes & Thornburg #Baltimore, Denver, Phoenix

Barnes & Thornburg Expands Public Finance and Infrastructure Teams

In a significant move for 2026, Barnes & Thornburg has announced the addition of 35 new lawyers, including 25 partners, to enhance its Government Services and Finance Department. This strategic expansion not only elevates the firm’s standing in the realm of public finance but also introduces new offices in Baltimore, Denver, and Phoenix.

Barnes & Thornburg is already recognized nationally for its expertise in advising both public and private sector clients on intricate public finance transactions and major infrastructure projects. Prior to this expansion, the firm had a robust roster of 21 public finance lawyers. Now, with the new additions, their public finance and infrastructure team has grown to 56 lawyers, making it one of the nation's leading practices in this field.

Enhancing Client Services Across Diverse Industries

The newly integrated team brings with it a wealth of experience that spans multiple industries including state and local government, banking, healthcare, education, renewable energy, and social infrastructure. Their broad range of expertise will enhance the legal services available to clients involved in municipal securities, underwriting, defaults and bankruptcies, and project financing.

Managing Partner Andrew J. Detherage expressed enthusiasm about this transformative addition, highlighting that it reflects their commitment to growing the firm strategically while providing exemplary legal service. Detherage stated, “This team represents a premier practice that enhances the firm's existing public finance practice.”

Among the new hires are Valarie Allen and Kimberly Blanchet, who will take leading roles in the public finance department. Additionally, several other notable lawyers have joined from Ballard Spahr, a firm known in the top rankings of municipal bond issuances.

Commitment to Expanding Market Presence

Barnes & Thornburg's expansion into Baltimore, Denver, and Phoenix not only enhances their foothold in the public finance sector but also strengthens their existing offices in cities such as Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Minneapolis, New York, and Los Angeles. With the new additions, the firm aims to increase its capacity to serve clients efficiently across 15 locations nationwide.

Richard J. Hall, Chair of the Government Services and Finance Department, emphasized that this growth places Barnes & Thornburg among the top 10 firms in public finance, enhancing the range and quality of services offered to clients involved in finance and regulatory activities.

The new team members will tackle a variety of public infrastructure projects, including transportation, housing, and energy facilities, representing various stakeholders like federal and state governments, banks, and private developers. Their expertise includes leading complex infrastructure projects that utilize innovative financing models such as public-private partnerships.

Background of the New Team

The recent recruits have made a mark in the public finance landscape, often ranked by The Bond Buyer for their contribution to the field. They come with extensive backgrounds in managing large-scale projects and handling complex financing and regulatory compliance, significantly strengthening Barnes & Thornburg’s capabilities in public finance.

The firm offers an array of services including bond counsel and advisory roles for public and public-private projects, reinforcing its position as a crucial player in the public finance arena. By welcoming these new professionals, Barnes & Thornburg is not just expanding its legal talent pool; it is also enhancing the comprehensive legal services it provides to navigate the complex landscape of public finance.

With this major development, Barnes & Thornburg is set to offer unparalleled service to its clients. Allen remarked on the possibilities this merger holds for their clients, adding that the firm's shared commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with the team's previous experiences. This collaborative spirit is expected to foster continued growth and development within the firm, promising exciting developments in the public finance sector.

As Barnes & Thornburg steps into 2026, the firm’s robust public finance practice is positioned to thrive, setting new standards for legal excellence in servicing clients engaged in public finance and infrastructure projects across the United States.