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The Winchester Select Board recently voted to appoint Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane LLP as the town’s new legal counsel, concluding a monthlong search that drew three finalists and extensive board deliberation.
The Quincy-based firm began its work ahead of Fall Town Meeting.
Board members cited the firm’s municipal experience, accessibility to staff and residents, and competitive rates as key factors in their unanimous decision. The vote followed public interviews with three firms — Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane; KP Law; and Harrington Heep LLP — held earlier in October.
Chair Michelle Prior said the board was impressed by the firm’s breadth of expertise and collaborative approach.
“They demonstrated a deep understanding of how towns function day to day,” Prior said during the Oct. 20 meeting. “We felt they would be a good fit for Winchester’s needs.”
The selection process began in early September after the town’s previous counsel, Mead, Talerman & Costa LLC, announced it would end its representation.
Winchester received three proposals in response to its request for qualifications and narrowed the field to three finalists. Board members emphasized the importance of continuity in labor relations, contract review and Town Meeting guidance when making their decision.
Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane — often known as MHTL — has represented more than 150 public entities across Massachusetts. The firm provides legal services in nearly every aspect of municipal law, including land use, zoning, environmental regulation, real estate, employment, collective bargaining, procurement and civil rights. Its municipal team includes attorneys who have served as town counsel or special counsel for communities such as Natick, Newburyport, Mendon and Sharon.
In its proposal, the firm described its approach as both team-based and accessible, pledging that Winchester officials “will always be able to go to the lead counsel for an update.” MHTL also emphasized its ability to provide in-person support for Town Meeting and prompt responses to daily inquiries through phone and electronic communication.
Vice Chair Anthea Brady said accessibility was a major factor in the board’s vote.
“Responsiveness is crucial for staff and volunteers who need answers quickly,” Brady said. “We wanted a team that picks up the phone and works collaboratively.”
The board reviewed rate structures, staffing plans and municipal references from each finalist before voting. MHTL’s blended hourly rate, according to its proposal, was among the most cost-effective of the three firms.
Board members also pointed to the firm’s larger staff as an advantage, allowing for coverage and continuity when primary attorneys are unavailable.
KP Law, which represents more than 100 municipalities statewide, was considered a strong contender because of its size and depth of experience. However, several board members noted that Winchester might receive less individualized attention given the firm’s workload.
Brooks & DeRensis, a smaller firm with a regional focus, was praised for its close relationships with local communities but offered fewer in-house specialists.
Ultimately, the board agreed that MHTL’s combination of depth, specialization and responsiveness best matched Winchester’s needs.
Prior said the decision balanced professional capability with fiscal responsibility.
“We wanted to ensure residents are getting high-quality service at a fair price,” she said.
Interim Town Manager Stephen Delaney told the board the firm’s transition plan includes introductory meetings with department heads and a review of active cases. MHTL is expected to assume full representation by early November.
The appointment comes as Winchester prepares for Fall Town Meeting, scheduled to begin Nov. 3. The new counsel will review warrant articles, advise the moderator on procedural issues and provide legal guidance during the sessions.
Board members expressed appreciation for all three finalist firms and said the process underscored Winchester’s commitment to transparency and sound governance.
“We had three excellent firms,” Brady said. “This was a thoughtful decision based on what’s best for the town moving forward.”
Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane’s first assignments will include advising on Town Meeting procedures, reviewing pending contracts and assisting with ongoing labor negotiations. The board plans to finalize contract terms and introduce the new counsel to staff in the coming week.
Will Dowd is a Massachusetts journalist who covers municipal government and community life for Winchester News. He previously co-founded the Marblehead Current and now runs The Marblehead Independent, a reader-funded digital newsroom.
