Latham & Watkins LLP

Per one client, Latham & Watkins LLP’s REIT team is ‘the best of the best’, maintaining its reputation of handling marquee REIT transactions and financings across all asset classes, particularly large-scale IPOs. Alongside its strong expertise in IPOs, the team has extensive experience in M&A and debt offerings. Leading the team in Los Angeles, Julian Kleindorfer distinguishes himself for advising REITs on the full breadth of corporate finance and securities matters including securities offerings and major joint ventures. In Century City, Ana O’Brien chiefly focuses on the tax aspects of REIT transactions and is relied on for her deep knowledge of the federal taxation of REITs. Highly sought-after capital markets expert Lewis Kneib is reputed for his prowess as outside counsel to prominent REIT companies, including data center REITs, and underwriters on debt and equity offerings. In the Washington DC office, Abigail Smith stands out for her work representing issuers and underwriters, while Brent Epstein and Craig Garner, found in Century City and San Diego respectively, also come recommended. William Cernius retired in 2024.