Holland & Knight Strengthens Real Estate Practice Group with Addition of 5-Lawyer Team in Boston

BOSTON (July 19, 2023) – Holland & Knight has strengthened its nationally recognized Real Estate Section with a team of five attorneys in Boston. The group includes Partners Julie Connelly and Annie Malo, Senior Counsels Scott Fenton and Brian Atherton, and Associate Erica Santos. All previously practiced at Seyfarth Shaw.

"We are thrilled to have this team of attorneys join our team here in Boston," said John O'Neill, practice group leader of the Boston Real Estate Practice. "The combination of their impressive legal skills and innovative approach to project management for their clients allows us to expand the Boston Real Estate Practice and continue to innovate in the delivery of legal services to our clients."

"We are excited to start this new chapter at a firm with such breadth, depth and diversity in real estate law. Holland & Knight's significant geographic platform, talent and technological resources make it a great match for our clients," said Ms. Connelly. "I look forward to working with Holland & Knight to share our best practices for management of volume clients and am eager to take advantage of the tools, resources and opportunities here to maximize client service. What a treat that I get to continue working with my wonderful colleagues as we integrate and grow our team."

Ms. Connelly advises major retailers and office landlords on a variety of real estate issues and transactions, including portfolio management for clients looking to expand their retail footprints. She received a J.D. degree from Pepperdine University School of Law and a B.A. degree from Tufts University.

"My colleagues and I are incredibly enthusiastic about joining this talented and thriving real estate team and further deepening our footprint in the Boston market and beyond," said Ms. Malo. "The firm's commitment to expansion and collaboration will only aid us in advancing and growing our practices."

Ms. Malo also advises major retailers on a variety of real estate issues as well as guiding clients in the acquisition, financing and disposition of real estate assets. Ms. Malo received a J.D. degree from the University of Richmond School of Law, an MBA degree from the University of Richmond Robins School of Business and a B.A. degree from Tulane University.

"We are delighted to be joining this accomplished team of real estate professionals," said Mr. Fenton. "Leveraging our collective knowledge, we expect to enhance the level of service that we provide to our clients."

Mr. Fenton represents clients in all aspects of commercial real estate, including leasing, permitting and development matters. He has experience representing colleges and universities in a wide variety of complex matters with respect to commercial real estate, permitting and zoning matters, environmental matters and contract negotiations. He received a J.D. degree from the Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law and a B.S. degree from Norwich University.

Mr. Atherton focuses his practice on commercial real estate, primarily representing tenants in connection with the leasing and development of retail, restaurant, office and warehouse locations, as well as buyer-sided acquisitions. He received a J.D. degree from Boston College Law School and a B.A. degree from Tufts University.

Ms. Santos assists clients nationally in acquisition, disposition, development, leasing and financing transactions, with a fast-expanding practice of assisting retailers in site rollouts and portfolio management. Ms. Santos received a J.D. degree from Boston University School of Law as well as MBA and B.S. degrees from Boston University.