Areas of Practice

General Counsel

15 Years Supporting Public Agencies.

Achieves Objectives, Complies with Public Agency Laws, and Defends Against Challenges.

Wes performs his role with a focus on the law while mindful of the public’s varying perspectives of governmental agencies and specific subjects, so as to help deliver good public service.

Trial Counsel

18+ Years Trial, Litigation, and Administrative Forum Experience.

Having started his career as a prosecutor with 20 jury trials, then transitioning to the civil sector, Wes has served public and private interests for over 15 years focused on water resources. Wes appears in courts in numerous counties throughout California.

Water Rights and Water Supplies

Legal rights to water supplies typically arise in one of two ways: as a “water right,” or, a “right to water.” Various types of water rights exist, though most often found in California under its “hybrid” system are riparian and appropriative rights. A right to water is a contractual right to a water supply. These rights may be eligible for “transfers” to another entity or individual.

Miliband Water Law is highly experienced with evaluating water rights, negotiating water supply agreements, navigating the regulatory processes for rights and transfers, and when necessary, litigating the client’s rights and interests through trial. More specifically with water rights, Wes is highly experienced with federal (Central Valley Project) and state (State Water Project) contracts and common law and state-issued water rights involving both surface water and groundwater.

Water Quality

Water supplies often are only as good as the quality of water necessary for the end use of the water. Human and naturally-occurring contaminants effect surface water and groundwater supplies. Federal and state laws often impose strict liability for violations of permits or discharge orders.

Miliband Water Law has assisted public and private entities navigate the complex regulatory processes and successfully defend against enforcement actions seeking seven-figures in fines and penalties.

Environmental Compliance and Solutions

Water supplies and water quality, as complex as each one is, are among two of numerous environmental issues that can arise. Various other environmental issues arise, whether it be compliance with federal and state endangered species laws, environmental permitting and compliance requirements, or enforcement actions from a federal, state, or local agencies.