Clark, Thomas & Winters' experience in handling state-specific regulatory issues for telecommunications companies is extensive. We actively practice before the Public Utility Commission of Texas in proceedings that shape the rules under which our telecommunications carrier clients and their competitors operate. We advise clients in dealing with these governmental entities and on federal and multi-state regulatory issues that affect their interests. We also routinely represent our clients in proceedings to obtain the requisite state authorizations to provide telecommunications services. Additionally, we assist clients in developing business plans that consider the prevailing and developing competitive, legal, and regulatory climate in order to identify new market opportunities and avoid regulatory risks.

Our Telecommunications Section also has extensive experience in working with pole attachment and right-of-way governance. We have advised numerous utility clients on their rights and obligations with respect to current and prospective attachers. We assist our clients by working closely with them on all phases of the pole attachment process, including assessing and counseling clients on joint use issues; developing rates, terms, and conditions for their pole attachment agreements; advocating our clients’ interests during the negotiation process; and representing utilities in pole attachment disputes.