Jim Murphy has represented both governmental entities and private sector clients in land use matters. He has advised developers on zoning and subdivision issues arising from commercial and residential developments, including hotels, offices, retail, multifamily and single family development. He has represented both governmental entities and private sector clients in litigation involving challenges to rezoning, development moratoriums and vested rights. Jim has assisted private sector clients in obtaining permits for special exceptions/conditional uses, variances and expansions of nonconforming uses. Jim has been a frequent presenter at land use law seminars.
Jim practiced for 18 years in the legal department of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, serving as the Director of Law from 1993 to 1999. In his highly visible role with the City, Jim provided legal advice to the Mayor and Metro Council, along with other municipal departments, boards, and commissions. He counseled the Mayor and the Metro Council regarding the economic development incentives for Opryland, Columbia/HCA, Thomas Nelson, and Dell Computer Corporation. Jim’s legal acumen was also instrumental in the establishment of the Sports Authority and the Hospital Authority in Nashville, the development of the downtown arena and the football stadium, and the leases with the Tennessee Titans and the Nashville Predators.
In addition to assisting clients on land use matters, Jim handles complex matters involving economic incentives, condemnation, elections, telecommunications, municipal law, environmental law, and commercial real estate.