Taft Grows Public Finance Team in Phoenix

Taft welcomed public finance attorney Brandon Arents to its Phoenix office, underscoring the firm's commitment to deepening its presence in the Southwest corridor.

Representing and collaborating with state agencies, cities, counties, universities, and special taxing districts, Arents assists as bond counsel, underwriter's counsel, and lender's counsel in a wide variety of tax-exempt and taxable financings, including financings secured by project revenues, property taxes, special assessments, certificates of participation, utility system revenues, and pledged revenues.

"One of the things that drew me to public finance is that the work has a real purpose behind it," said Arents. "Every day, we're helping make projects possible that strengthen communities, whether that's critical infrastructure, affordable housing, healthcare facilities, educational facilities, or expanded access to clean water. Knowing that the work ultimately improves people's lives is incredibly gratifying."

Prior to joining Taft, Arents practiced at an international law firm and served as a judicial clerk to Judge Patricia A. Orozco of the Arizona Court of Appeals in Phoenix. During his clerkship, he worked on an appeal involving bonds issued to finance a professional sports stadium.

Arents has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch and Super Lawyers Rising Stars for his work in project and government finance. He was also part of a team recognized by Bond Buyer with its 2022 Deal of the Year award for the Southwest region.

"Brandon is a strong addition to our Phoenix office as we continue to grow," said Craig Morgan, partner-in-charge of Taft's Phoenix office. "His background in public finance adds valuable depth to our team that aligns well with the needs of our clients."

"My goal since joining Taft last year has been to build a premier public finance practice in Arizona - one capable of handling the most sophisticated infrastructure, housing, economic development and governmental finance transactions in the market," said Tyler Cobb, public finance partner in Phoenix. "Brandon's addition is an important step in that continued growth. He is an exceptional attorney with a deep appreciation for the role public finance plays in supporting communities and critical infrastructure projects. His experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to client service make him a tremendous addition to our team."

"We are thrilled to welcome Brandon to our public finance group," said Cory Kalanick, Taft Public Finance and Economic Development chair. "Brandon has substantial experience in many facets of public finance and infrastructure law. He is a valuable addition to the firm, and we are looking forward to having his knowledge on our team."

Taft's Public Finance practice is regarded as among the best in the field and has a long history of providing innovative financing solutions to its clients. The firm has been behind the bonding of billions of dollars in municipal and public financing projects, such as airports, medical facilities, affordable housing, cultural centers, utilities, schools, educational institutions, professional sports facilities, convention centers, streets, highways, and transit stations.

"My decision to join Taft really came down to the people," said Arents. "Over the years, I've had the opportunity to work alongside several of the firm's public finance attorneys and was consistently impressed by both their professionalism and collaborative approach. Taft felt like a natural fit for my experience, my practice, and where I want to grow professionally."

Arents earned his J.D. from Arizona State University's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, where he served as associate editor of the Arizona State Law Journal and was a Willard H. Pedrick Scholar. He received a B.A. in international studies and a B.A. in German from Macalester College, studying abroad in Berlin, Germany and Vienna, Austria.

Since combining with Taft on Jan. 1, 2025, the former Sherman & Howard Phoenix office has grown by 180%. With the addition of Arents, the office has welcomed 18 attorneys, significantly expanding the firm's strength across key practice areas and reshaping the depth of legal services available in the region.

About Taft

Founded in 1885, Taft is one of the nation's fastest-growing law firms, with a 140-year legacy rooted in the historic Taft family. With more than 1,250 attorneys and a modern, non-headquarter operating model, Taft is committed to delivering exceptional legal service to today's organizations and individuals. The firm is recognized nationally in the Am Law 100, Chambers USA, Best Lawyers®, and Super Lawyers. Learn more at Taftlaw.com.