The
firm has a well-developed expertise in all aspects of
real estate transactions. Our attorneys and paralegals
include individuals with backgrounds in real estate
development and title insurance, providing a breadth of
knowledge beyond merely the legal aspects of business
transactions.
Acquisitions and Sales
We
regularly represent buyers and sellers in a variety of
purchases and sales transactions. Our representation
includes the negotiation and preparation of all
necessary documents. Although we have structured and
prepared complex documents to deal with unique
situations, we have also developed a large library of
standard documents that can be used to close more
traditional transactions quickly and efficiently. We
also have developed sound relationships with escrow and
title companies, appraisers, and other professionals to
obtain high quality and cost-effective services for our
clients in these fields.
Real Property Financing
We
represent a number of lenders, including pension funds
and banks, in all aspects of lending secured by real
property. We also represent borrowers in connection
with new loans, refinancings, and loan work outs. A
core service we provide our financing clients, whether
borrowers or lenders, is bankruptcy advice, both in the
planning and work-out stage and in the prosecution of
bankruptcy litigation. We also provide valuable advice
to clients, especially clients located outside of
California, with respect to the unique and complex
California anti-deficiency laws.
Commercial Leasing and Management
Our
attorneys specialize in both landlord and tenant
representation. We represent owners of office
buildings, retail centers, large shopping centers,
industrial properties, hotels and restaurants in the
leasing and management of their properties. We also
represent retail, industrial, commercial and office
tenants in lease negotiations and in the management of
their operations.
Portfolio Enhancement
Our
attorneys have represented pension funds, institutions,
and individual investors in connection with detailed
portfolio analysis: contract review and synthesis,
retention of valuation and planning professionals,
alternative analysis and recommendation, and
implementation of final business plans.
Portfolio Liquidation
We
also represent pension funds, financial institutions,
retailers and individual investors in the liquidation of
their portfolios. Again, a detailed portfolio analysis
is undertaken to minimize liquidation costs and maximize
returns.
Construction Matters
We
have represented developers and land owners in a variety
of construction matters, ranging from the construction
of large sports and entertainment arenas, to simple
tenant improvement matters involved in office or retail
leases. We negotiate and prepare architect and
construction contracts, and provide continuing advice to
our clients during the construction process, including
with respect to mechanics’ liens, environmental issues,
ADA issues, and related matters.
Developments and Subdivisions
The
firm has developed an expertise in assisting clients in
the preparation of documents for commercial and
residential developments, as well as in the permitting
and entitlement process. We have developed
relationships with numerous planning departments as well
as with the California Coastal Commission and other
permitting agencies that permit us to process
entitlement applications efficiently and effectively.
Environmental Advice
Our lawyers regularly assist clients with analyzing the
environmental condition of properties and with
negotiating the responsibility for remediation among
past and present owners and operators. In addition, we
have experience in assisting clients with managing
existing conditions, including asbestos and underground
storage tanks, effectively to avoid costly issues in the
future.
