Thomas Trautner

Biography: Thomas J. Trautner Jr. is an experienced real estate development lawyer, with a diverse practice serving as counselor, strategic architect and (when the situation calls) litigator. He excels in helping clients navigate the entitlements process through his breath of knowledge regarding often Byzantine subjects, among which include redevelopment, eminent domain and affordable housing (allowing him to cost-effectively provide guidance on a broad range of issues without the need to involve other subject matter specialists). First trained by savages as a young commercial litigator, Tom’s practice often focused on affordable housing and eminent domain. Ultimately, Tom's practice evolved to include virtually all facets of the entitlements and redevelopment process. As a seasoned litigator possessing a nuanced understanding of the complex regulatory scheme impacting the entitlements process, Tom is able to spot issues early and advise clients on how to avoid obstacles. His ability to draw upon his comprehensive background and experience (whether negotiating a redevelopment agreement, appearing before a hostile land use board or arguing before the New Jersey Supreme Court) affords a level of confidence and competence to find innovative approaches to getting projects timely approved and timely built while simultaneously managing costs. *Redevelopment and Land Use Tom regularly counsels clients on applications for development to planning and zoning boards as well as state agencies in connection with retail, hotel, industrial, residential, multi-family and mixed-use projects. He likewise focuses a substantial amount of his practice in assisting clients in securing or opposing redevelopment designations, negotiating redevelopment agreements and navigating the process of developing favorable redevelopment plans. *Eminent Domain