Matthew R. Berens is a founding member of the Firm. Mr. Berens has over 35 years of experience in real estate, finance, corporate and securities law. His practice focuses primarily on the representation of lenders, home builders and developers in real estate and finance related matters and the representation of businesses with respect to entity governance and finance issues.
Mr. Berens areas of expertise include the acquisition, financing and sale of developed and undeveloped property, the entitlement and approval process for real estate projects and issues regarding project financing and joint development agreements. Mr. Berens also has significant experience with the formation and operation of community facilities districts and other public financing vehicles. Mr. Berens also advises on many other issues that arise in real estate transactions, including title insurance, environmental concerns, project planning, construction and closings.
With respect to entity, governance and securities, Mr. Berens has participated in many private securities placements, venture capital financing transactions, and business acquisitions. His extensive experience in documenting transactions for entity governance, employment and related issues includes preparation of shareholders agreements, operating agreements and other joint venture agreements, employment agreements, stock restriction agreements and the articles of incorporation and bylaws necessary for these types of transactions. His practice also includes general business law and the formation of limited liability companies, corporations and similar entities.