John Ferguson brings many years of diverse experience to his practice of law in Missoula and throughout Montana.

Water: John has represented diverse water right clients in issues related to surface water and groundwater since founding Ferguson Law Office in 2007 and has significant experience working with individuals and groups in complex water cases.  He has represented clients in contested-case hearings before the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and advised clients on protecting their water rights as provided for under Montana's case law, statutes, and regulations.  John also co-founded the Montana Water Trust (MWT) in 2001. He served as Executive Director for over six years. As part of his responsibilities, John conducted extensive water right due diligence for MWT’s potential water transactions, handled all aspects of the transactional stage (drafting and negotiating contracts), prepared and submitted change applications to the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and worked with staff to develop and implement high-quality stewardship programs to ensure compliance and enforcement of leased and purchased water rights.

Employment: John Ferguson has represented businesses and individuals in employment issues.  He has provided employers with Employee Handbooks, employment contracts, and other policies and advised them on discipline issues.  He also has represented many individuals in cases involving wrongful discharge from employment claims, Family Medical Leave Act claims as well as represented teachers facing discipline or discharge under their applicable statutes and regulations.  As Executive Director, John was responsible for all aspects of the employment process, including coordinating and conducting the hiring, training and managing of employees, independent contractors, interns, and volunteers.  John also served on the board of directors for several Montana nonprofits and advised them on employment practices.

Construction: John Ferguson has represented clients in construction defect claims and is a member of the Missoula Building Industry Association.  He is experienced in drafting contracts to facilitate his client's project goals.  Prior to the Montana Water Trust, John was an associate at the Portland, Oregon law firm of Bullivant Houser Bailey where his practice focused on construction law, including construction defect litigation related to exterior insulation finish systems (EIFS) and design defects. As part of his duties, John was responsible for all aspects of litigation, from drafting the initial complaint to representing clients at mediation and arbitration.

General Practice: John Ferguson has also represented clients in insurance claims related to breach of contract litigation, drafted wills, represented clients in civil litigation related to contract disputes, prepared and reviewed contracts for land transactions and advised clients on easement issues.

Ferguson Law Office, PLLC is located in Missoula, Montana.