Venable LLP, praised as ‘the gold standard’, is a specialist Maryland corporate practice, frequently serving as Maryland counsel in REIT capital-raising transactions. The firm advises publicly traded Maryland REITs and SEC-registered, non-listed and private REITs on Maryland corporate law aspects of IPOs, equity and debt offerings and M&A. The head of the practice is Michael Schiffer in Baltimore. James Hanks is reputed for his deep knowledge of all aspects of Maryland law. Christopher Pate is lauded as a ’stand out’, representing clients in corporate governance issues and securities transactions. Pate also regularly counsels buyers and sellers in major mergers and acquisitions. Carmen Fonda also comes recommended. The entire team is based in Baltimore.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Market leaders; commercial insights; active in drafting legislation; practical and responsive.’
‘Chris Pate is a standout.’
‘The Venable team is very responsive, extremely knowledgeable and commercial and on top of current market practice. As far as MD law is concerned, particularly in the REIT context, they are the go to firm.’
‘Carmen Fonda and Chris Pate (and their teams) are always available and always have a great answer for the client on any tricky questions.’
‘The Venable team is an invaluable resource on Maryland matters. They are the gold standard when it comes to all matters regarding REITs and Maryland corporate law, and are good at both nitty-gritty rules and technical requirements as well as big-picture thinking. They are truly in a class of their own when it comes to coordinating the Maryland aspects of transactions large and small.’
‘The Venable lawyers are wise, collected and tenacious, while also being affable regardless of circumstances. In particular, Jim Hanks is a brilliant attorney who is the veritable Dean of Maryland corporate law. Whether it's offering wise counsel and valuable judgment, or deep analysis of Maryland statutory provisions, he is truly the best when it comes to Maryland and REITs’
‘Best in class firm for matters of Maryland law and REITs. Consistently up to speed and shaping legal and market developments.’
‘Thoughtful, commercial lawyers who look to efficiently and commercially solve problems and get deals done.’
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Christopher Pate
Patricia McGowan
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Michael D. Schiffer
Other key lawyers
James Hanks; Christopher W. Pate; Carmen Fonda