Bilzin Sumberg

Today, celebrates , the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the US. We continuously celebrate freedom and look forward to a future free of prejudice, discrimination, and inequality.

is pleased to have been recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Champion of Women award by the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers.

“We take great pride in being recognized by MDFAWL for this remarkable honor," said Bilzin Sumberg Partner and former MDFAWL President Diana Mendez. "As someone who has been deeply involved with MDFAWL for many years, I know how high the bar is for reaching the finalist stage for the Champion of Women award, and Bilzin Sumberg serves as an inspiring model for promoting gender equity and inclusivity in the legal profession.”

In the latest example of the strength and resiliency of Miami's housing market, PMG recently secured a $668M construction loan – the largest in history – for The Waldorf Astoria Residences in . As the number of high earners flocking to the Magic City continues to outpace its supply of luxury properties, lenders are taking notice.

’s Real Estate Chair Suzanne Amaducci spoke with Madison Darbyshire about the dynamics factoring into construction and why the market shows no sign of cooling down.

“Miami is the most attractive market in the US right now for condo construction lenders with a high-quality developer,” said Amaducci.

Read more via the Financial Times: https://on.ft.com/3VFUwNZ

Congratulations to Trial & Litigation Partner Adrian K. Felix for being selected to join the 2024 Franchise Times "Legal Eagles" class. The “Legal Eagles" is a compilation of legal practitioners who counsel franchises and is based on nominations and referrals from clients, colleagues, and other professionals.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4e4geSU

Trial & Litigation Senior Counsel, Michael Hanzman, will lead the global arbitration involving remaining defendants, including the Dallas Mavericks, Mark Cuban, the NBA, and the law firm McCarter & English, in the case of the now-collapsed cryptocurrency platform, Voyager.

This follows U.S. District Judge Roy Altman's approval of a $2.4M preliminary settlement involving prominent athletes. The collapsed cryptocurrency platform marks the first round of settlements for class members who purchased its unregistered securities in the form of EPA and VGX tokens and its interest-bearing accounts.

Read more via the Daily Business Review:

Miami Federal Judge Approves $2.4M Voyager Settlement Involving Gronkowski | Daily Business Review Moving forward, Michael Hanzman of Bilzin Sumberg will lead the global arbitration involving the remaining defendants, who include the Dallas Mavericks, Mark Cuban, the National Basketball Association, the Am Law 100 firm McCarter & English.

Tax & Private Wealth Attorney Ellina Berdichevsky is participating on the Global Wealth Planning panel at the American Bar Association’s 16th Annual U.S. and Latin America Tax Practice Trends Conference tomorrow.

The panel will cover the current trends and opportunities for global wealth planning, trusts and estate taxes for Latin American individuals. Register here: https://bit.ly/457oJsz

As grapples with a shortage of affordable housing, legislators passed new legislation to enhance the original , which was designed to encourage developers to build workforce housing by offering them zoning and tax incentives.

The enhanced Act incorporates feedback from local municipalities and developers nearly a year after the original bill passed. Partner Anthony De Yurre played a key role in guiding the new legislation by bridging the gap between how the law was written and how it was being interpreted. Katherine Kallergis details the process in The Real Deal: https://bit.ly/3X3XflE

is proud to announce that each of its practice groups, and over half of its partners, have been recognized as leaders in the 2024 edition of Chambers and Partners, one of the most esteemed legal publications in the world. This recognition underscores the firm’s vast experience navigating complex issues and exceeding client needs.

The & Group was recognized as part of “The Elite in Florida”, the most selective grouping of Florida firms in Chambers’ General Commercial Litigation category for the fourth year in a row.

The Firm also earned Band 1 rankings, the highest rank a law firm can receive, in the areas of , , , and . The firm also garnered recognition in several other categories including, & , and , , &A and , , and . Learn more: https://bit.ly/4aYb4VH

Calling all summer associates: Join the CABA Pro Bono Legal Services team at the office on June 18th for a training session on assisting abandoned, abused, and undocumented minors. Following the program, participants will meet with minors to provide assistance.

RSVP by June 11 to [email protected]

is pleased to announce that & Partners Joy Spillis Lundeen, Felix X. Rodriguez, and Kelly R. Melchiondo secured a favorable ruling at the Fourth District Court of Appeal. The case started as a $127,000 construction dispute litigated on behalf of Tellus Products LLC. After more than seven years of litigation, the appeals court ruling opens the door to Bilzin Sumberg pursuing $2.3 million in fees.

“It’s been seven years of litigating an underlying case and two appeals that we had to litigate. So we’ve been at this over $127,000 claim for long enough to justify all of those fees. It’s incredible, but that is where we are now,” said Felix X. Rodriguez.

Read more via Daily Business Review: https://bit.ly/3X6a12K

🌈 June 1st marks the start of , and we proudly celebrate the progress made toward equality, acceptance, and rights for LGBTQ+ communities.

At , we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. Happy Pride Month!

Learn more about our DEI initiatives: https://bit.ly/4bHbSQ5

is proud to announce that & Partner Scott Wagner has been honored as a 2024 Power Leader in Corporate Philanthropy by South Florida Business Journal for his significant contributions to the Miami Children’s Museum in his role as President.

"We are incredibly proud of Scott and his unwavering dedication to giving back to the community," said Al Dotson, CEO & Managing Partner of Bilzin Sumberg. "His active engagement with Miami Children’s Museum not only reflects his personal values but also embodies our firm's commitment to social responsibility."

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4bkKc2L

Partner Jose Sariego shares insights on the lessons learned since the landmark Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts Inc. v. Goldsmith Supreme Court ruling one year ago.

Reflecting on the case's profound impact on fair use within copyright law, Jose highlights significant advancements and debates within the legal arena. His expert analysis, featured in Law360, underscores the precedent set by the decision, which determined that Warhol's silkscreens depicting musician Prince, derived from a photograph by Lynn Goldsmith, did not meet the criteria for fair use.

Read more: https://bit.ly/4bgHEmv

Miami International Airport is a leading hub for international passenger traffic in the U.S., welcoming over 52 million travelers in 2023 alone.

MIA’s ambitious plans for infrastructure renovations have highlighted the role of Public-Private Partnerships (“P3s”) as an effective model for delivering airport infrastructure upgrades. Learn more from and Government Contracting Partner Diana Mendez: https://bit.ly/3xuDAQV

Recent SEC settlements against Delphia and Global Predictions highlight the importance of truthful disclosures. As the regulatory spotlight intensifies, it's crucial for companies, advisers, and broker-dealers to ensure transparency and accuracy in their AI-related claims.

's Kelly Ruane Melchiondo discusses the concept of “AI Washing,” the significance of staying informed about its developments, and understanding the implications for businesses operating in the AI space. Read more on the blog: https://bit.ly/3v96rsP

While real estate demand in Florida has remained strong thanks to a significant influx of new residents, changes to the Florida Condominium Act — the state’s laws governing condominium associations – are shaking up markets across the Sunshine State.

In Kiplinger, Real Estate Partner Joe Hernandez details how these new standards, which mandate that associations maintain adequate reserve funds for maintenance and repairs, are squeezing condo owners in older buildings to sell their units to avoid bankruptcy. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3wGrF2u

Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law, enhancing last year's . This new legislation increases tax advantages for developers, adds new incentives for transit-oriented developments, and ensures single-family neighborhoods will be protected.

Land Development & Government Relations Partner Anthony De Yurre said, “I think you will see a lot of projects being submitted in the City of Miami and around transit-oriented projects in Miami-Dade County. We want to do infill projects that are close to transit and close to employment opportunities.”

The state law is an attempt to address the affordable housing crisis that threatened to displace working-class and middle-class families as well as essential workers such as police, firefighters, nurses, and teachers. Read more via South Florida Business Journal: https://bit.ly/3yorZ6i

’s team of experienced environmental practitioners discuss the EPA’s recent National Primary Drinking Water Regulation announcement for PFAS, its legally enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels, and designating PFOS and PFOA as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act.

This regulation aims to address the health risks associated with PFAS exposure, requiring compliance from all public water systems in the U.S. within three years. Non-compliant systems must reduce PFAS levels within five years, with mandatory public reporting on progress. The EPA's actions underscore the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures in addressing PFAS contamination.

Read more: https://bit.ly/3Wn53hK

On Wednesday, Construction Partner Michael Larmoyeux will moderate the "The Art of Real Estate Development: Strategies, Challenges, and Innovations" panel at Bisnow's Development and Construction event.

The panel will dive into the commercial real estate development process in South Florida, discussing strategic approaches, common challenges, and innovative practices in developing diverse properties. Register here: https://bit.ly/4bpxUXE

is pleased to announce & Partners Shalia Sakona and Scott Wagner, with co-counsel David Jonelis and Kelsey Leeker of Lavely & Singer, secured a $19.5 million verdict on behalf of film industry investor Robert Harris in a Federal civil suit brought in the Southern District of Florida.

Learn more via Daily Business Review: https://bit.ly/44FYw40

Yesterday, hosted the 7th annual International & Planning Conference where industry leaders discussed timely topics such as the changing characteristics of international investments in , trends in private wealth planning, and more.

Thank you to our panelists and everyone who attended yesterday’s event. We look forward to hosting you again next year.

hosted United Way Miami’s "Let's Do Lunch!" event in honor of the organization’s 100th anniversary.

Partner Karyl Argamasilla, a United Way Miami ex-officio board member, moderated a discussion about Miami’s evolution featuring notable Miami women leaders including Jane Gilbert of Miami-Dade County, Melissa Medina of eMerge Americas, and Kerry-Ann Royes of YWCA South Florida. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava delivered the opening remarks for the event.

is pleased to announce that Associate, Cesar L. Avila, has been named a Cuban American Bar Association’s (CABA) fellow for Class II of its leadership training program, Leadership, Education, and Development (L.E.A.D.).

Designed to provide CABA fellows with the knowledge, skills, and tools to be effective leaders within CABA, The Florida Bar, and their communities, LEAD’s goal is to encourage members to use their leadership skills to make a positive impact in the community. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3JJZm6e

A looming deadline for structural inspections and reserve studies –implemented after the 2021 Surfside tragedy – has thrust Florida’s aging condo buildings into the spotlight. While redevelopment opportunities abound, navigating the condo termination process is challenging.

In Law360, Nathan Hale details the key takeaways from a conversation between Michael T. Fay of Avison Young, Camilo Miguel, Jr., of Mast Capital, Len Prescott of First American, and Partners Felix X. Rodriguez and Joe Hernandez during the Development Conference last week.

Learn more: https://www.law360.com/real-estate-authority/articles/1835152

is pleased to announce the addition of preeminent trial and appellate lawyer Robert L. Raskopf as Senior Counsel. Bob focuses on matters involving trademarks, false advertising, copyright, defamation, trade secrets, privacy/publicity, and product liability.

“Bilzin Sumberg’s Trial & Litigation Practice excels representing the interests of clients both nationally and within Florida. Our team’s work is taking on added importance as companies look to relocate and expand into our state, and as Florida-based businesses grow their nationwide footprint. Bob’s arrival adds another layer of national experience handling high stakes litigation,” said Bilzin Sumberg Trial & Litigation Partner Scott Wagner.

Bob’s addition expands the Firm’s robust Sports & Entertainment Practice, bringing more than three decades of experience representing clients such as the NFL and its member clubs, U.S. Soccer Foundation, MLB players, and the NHL.

Read more via Law360: https://www.law360.com/pulse/articles/1833816

Yesterday, industry leaders gathered at the 5th annual Development Conference to discuss emerging real estate investment and development trends in , including the , condo redevelopments, unique considerations for real estate joint ventures, and more.

Thank you to our expert panelists and everyone who attended yesterday’s event. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.

For all of Miami’s strengths – and there are many – our community stands to benefit from collaboration among stakeholders committed to finding solutions to near- and long-term challenges.

Today, is proud to announce its support for The Partnership for Miami, a new nonprofit organization working to build a city that works for all and ensure Miami is a place of economic opportunity, global innovation, and world-class arts and culture.

Bilzin Sumberg Managing Partner Albert Dotson, Jr. is proudly serving as a Founding Board Member of the Partnership, working alongside other business and civic leaders who share a common vision for Miami, with an emphasis on affordability, mobility, and education.

Learn more about The Partnership for Miami and read its inaugural report, “A Miami That Works for All” here: https://bit.ly/4acHLOZ

Reminder: The annual Development Conference is tomorrow, Tuesday, May 7. There’s still time to request an invite: https://bit.ly/3HEyjsG

Featuring fireside chats and panel discussions, the conference will center around timely topics shaping the market, the emerging trends in and , and more.

Last night, more than 750 members of South Florida’s legal, business, and civic community gathered to honor attorney and former circuit court judge, Michael Hanzman, who was recognized by the Miami-Dade and Broward Chapter of the AJC - American Jewish Committee with the 2024 Judge Learned Hand Award. The evening celebrated Michael’s career and decades-long track record of community engagement.

“Throughout his career, Michael has been an esteemed jurist, attorney, and member of the South Florida community,” said Bilzin Sumberg Managing Partner Al Dotson, Jr. “His commitment to advancing the values of the AJC exemplify the high standards set forth by Judge Learned Hand as he championed judicial excellence and civil liberties.”

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3UGJTKm

Public-private partnerships, commonly known as , have become a driving force for the development of social infrastructure like city halls, libraries, courthouses, and other government buildings. As such, government agencies are utilizing P3s to further environmental initiatives by requiring new buildings to be designed and constructed to meet certain green building requirements.

Partners Eric Singer and Michael Larmoyeux, Jr. dive into this trend and explore examples in via the blog: https://bit.ly/3uIYzOz