Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP
GDSR. Sophisticated. Practical. Creative. Efficient.
Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP
GDSR. Sophisticated. Practical. Creative. Efficient.
We specialize in business transactional matters, including real estate and construction transactions, joint ventures, equity and debt financings, the formation, capitalization, governance, restructure and dissolution of legal entities, merger and acquisition transactions, the drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements, tax analysis and counseling, estate planning and the mediation of commercial disputes.
Our clients range from individual investors and entrepreneurs to regional, national and international companies, including technology companies, manufacturing companies, mining companies, health care companies, professional service providers, franchisees, real estate owners and development companies, REITs, lenders and property managers.
Our team represents over 150 years of collective legal and industry experience, providing the breadth and depth to handle the most complex matters with real world focus, creativity and efficiency.
Main Office
3200 Bristol Street, Suite 850, Pacific Arts Plaza
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714-384-4300
Commercial Real Estate
We offer extensive experience, effective strategies, and a practical approach to help institutional and private investors, commercial developers, national and regional financial institutions, real estate investment trusts (REITs), retail companies, health care providers, mining operators, energy suppliers, asset managers and property owners with commercial real estate transactions locally, statewide and nationwide. We establish exceptional working relationships with our clients by learning the ins and outs of their businesses and acting as a valued counsel in every aspect of our clients' real estate transactions.
The varied backgrounds of our team members, representing more than 150 years of collective legal experience, includes extensive experience in acquiring, financing, developing, selling and leasing almost every type of commercial real estate from office buildings to industrial projects, from shopping centers to mixed use developments, and from agricultural property to residential subdivisions. Our distinctive experience and expertise, together with our knowledge of the marketplace, enable us to efficiently identify and resolve commercial real estate issues and guide our clients through their commercial real estate transactions in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
We specialize in the following areas:
-Commercial Leasing
-Development Projects
-Purchase and Sale Transactions
-Real Estate Financing
Practice Specialties
-Purchase and Sale Transactions
-Commercial Leasing
-Corporate and Business Transactions
-Real Estate Financing
-Mediation
Biography
Ms. Chaney specializes in real estate law with an emphasis on financing, leasing, purchase and sale transactions and development. She is also a certified mediator, having trained with Orange County's CSP (Community Service Programs) Dispute Resolution Services Program.
Ms. Chaney represents lenders and borrowers in the origination, restructuring and participation of acquisition, construction and mezzanine financing secured by various types of real property, including office buildings, retail centers, hotels, and mixed-use and multi-family properties. Ms. Chaney has experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of office, retail and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Chaney has extensive experience drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial contracts.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in July 2012, Ms. Chaney served as in-house counsel to Placentia Recycling Inc. Prior to her experience at Placentia Recycling, Ms. Chaney was an associate with Schulte Roth & Zabel in New York, where her practice focused on complex financing transactions, commercial leasing, and acquisitions and dispositions of real property. Ms. Chaney is admitted to practice in both New York and California.
Education
J.D., Columbia University School of Law, 2006
B.A., University of California, Irvine, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of New York
State Bar of California
Columbia University School of Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
-Purchase and Sale Transactions
-Commercial Leasing
-Corporate and Business Transactions
-Real Estate Financing
-Mediation
Biography
Ms. Chaney specializes in real estate law with an emphasis on financing, leasing, purchase and sale transactions and development. She is also a certified mediator, having trained with Orange County's CSP (Community Service Programs) Dispute Resolution Services Program.
Ms. Chaney represents lenders and borrowers in the origination, restructuring and participation of acquisition, construction and mezzanine financing secured by various types of real property, including office buildings, retail centers, hotels, and mixed-use and multi-family properties. Ms. Chaney has experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of office, retail and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Chaney has extensive experience drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial contracts.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in July 2012, Ms. Chaney served as in-house counsel to Placentia Recycling Inc. Prior to her experience at Placentia Recycling, Ms. Chaney was an associate with Schulte Roth & Zabel in New York, where her practice focused on complex financing transactions, commercial leasing, and acquisitions and dispositions of real property. Ms. Chaney is admitted to practice in both New York and California.
Education
J.D., Columbia University School of Law, 2006
B.A., University of California, Irvine, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of New York
State Bar of California
Columbia University School of Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Leasing
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Mr. Cho specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, financing and development. His practice involves the representation of major corporations, national and regional developers, small to mid-size companies and individuals in a broad range of real estate transactions and projects throughout the United States, including the acquisition and disposition of developed and undeveloped real property, office, retail, industrial and ground leasing, acquisition and construction financing, and the negotiation, preparation and review of easements, license agreements, CC&Rs, construction contracts, commercial agreements and other due diligence matters.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2002, Mr. Cho was an associate with the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. Cho has been named one of Southern California's "Super Lawyers Rising Stars" every year since 2005.
Representative Transactions
Representation of real estate developer in connection with the purchase of single and multi-tenant retail pads throughout the United States
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the purchase of a 1.2 million square foot retail mall in Sacramento County, California
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the leasing of its 430,000 square foot office project in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of for-profit college in connection with the leasing of campus sites throughout Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Riverside Counties
Representation of national manufacturing company in connection with the leasing of over 500,000 square feet of industrial space throughout the United States
Representation of regional developer in connection with construction financing for the construction of a high-end senior living facility in Orange County, California
Education
J.D., University of Southern California (Articles Editor, Law Review), 1998
B.A., University of California at Los Angeles, 1995
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2012
University of Southern California
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Leasing
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Mr. Cho specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, financing and development. His practice involves the representation of major corporations, national and regional developers, small to mid-size companies and individuals in a broad range of real estate transactions and projects throughout the United States, including the acquisition and disposition of developed and undeveloped real property, office, retail, industrial and ground leasing, acquisition and construction financing, and the negotiation, preparation and review of easements, license agreements, CC&Rs, construction contracts, commercial agreements and other due diligence matters.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2002, Mr. Cho was an associate with the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. Cho has been named one of Southern California's "Super Lawyers Rising Stars" every year since 2005.
Representative Transactions
Representation of real estate developer in connection with the purchase of single and multi-tenant retail pads throughout the United States
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the purchase of a 1.2 million square foot retail mall in Sacramento County, California
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the leasing of its 430,000 square foot office project in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of for-profit college in connection with the leasing of campus sites throughout Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Riverside Counties
Representation of national manufacturing company in connection with the leasing of over 500,000 square feet of industrial space throughout the United States
Representation of regional developer in connection with construction financing for the construction of a high-end senior living facility in Orange County, California
Education
J.D., University of Southern California (Articles Editor, Law Review), 1998
B.A., University of California at Los Angeles, 1995
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2012
University of Southern California J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. De Frenza specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial leasing, purchase and sale transactions, construction law, and financing.
Mr. De Frenza's experience includes drafting and negotiating ground leases and leases for office, retail, restaurant, medical use and industrial space. He handles purchase and sale agreements for unimproved land and for office, research and development, retail, apartment, industrial, restaurant and hotel properties. Mr. De Frenza also prepares reciprocal easement agreements, property management agreements, covenants, conditions and restrictions, and various development-related agreements with public entities and between landowners.
Mr. De Frenza's representation includes major insurance companies, real estate investment companies, real estate development companies, national and regional quick service and casual dining restaurant chains, national tenant representation of a real estate financial services firm, a wireless telecommunications company, property management companies and individuals. Mr. De Frenza also has provided real estate expertise in complex litigation matters involving real property.
Prior to co-founding Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. De Frenza was the supervising partner of the Business Group of the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. De Frenza has been a speaker on due diligence in real estate transactions, premises liability issues, wireless communication site leases and recent developments in real property law.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law School (Senior Staff, Law Review), 1988
B.S., University of California at Los Angeles (cum laude), 1985
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal and Commercial Leasing sections)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2007
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2010
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law School
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. De Frenza specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial leasing, purchase and sale transactions, construction law, and financing.
Mr. De Frenza's experience includes drafting and negotiating ground leases and leases for office, retail, restaurant, medical use and industrial space. He handles purchase and sale agreements for unimproved land and for office, research and development, retail, apartment, industrial, restaurant and hotel properties. Mr. De Frenza also prepares reciprocal easement agreements, property management agreements, covenants, conditions and restrictions, and various development-related agreements with public entities and between landowners.
Mr. De Frenza's representation includes major insurance companies, real estate investment companies, real estate development companies, national and regional quick service and casual dining restaurant chains, national tenant representation of a real estate financial services firm, a wireless telecommunications company, property management companies and individuals. Mr. De Frenza also has provided real estate expertise in complex litigation matters involving real property.
Prior to co-founding Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. De Frenza was the supervising partner of the Business Group of the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. De Frenza has been a speaker on due diligence in real estate transactions, premises liability issues, wireless communication site leases and recent developments in real property law.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law School (Senior Staff, Law Review), 1988
B.S., University of California at Los Angeles (cum laude), 1985
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal and Commercial Leasing sections)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2007
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2010
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law School J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Biography
John Garrett is Counsel to the firm. He has represented developers, investors and related parties in purchasing, planning, developing, financing, ownership, and leasing matters. Mr. Garrett's experience involves virtually all facets of the real estate industry.
Mr. Garrett has been a moderator, panelist and lecturer on California Continuing Education of the Bar and other land acquisition, development and financing panels, and has been a speaker on real estate development issues to the real estate industry. He has been included in The Best Lawyers in America, Real Estate Law, for its past several biennial editions. In the past, the California Real Estate Journal named Mr. Garrett among the best real estate lawyers in California. Annual editions of Los Angeles Magazine have included him in its list of Southern California "Super Lawyers."
Mr. Garrett is a former president of the Orange County Bar Association. He has served on the Board of Governors of a Claremont McKenna College international studies institute, on the Board of Trustees of the U.C. Irvine Foundation, and on the U.C.I. Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and has been a lecturer at U.C.I.'s Merage business school for the past several years. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (formerly, Orange County Performing Arts Center) and currently serves on the board's Executive Committee, as chair of its Audit Committee, and on its Long Range Planning and Board Development Committees.
Education
B.A., Stanford University, 1961
J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, 1966
U.S. Marine Corps Officer, 1961-1963
Affiliations
Best Lawyers in America, 1994-2011
Southern California Super Lawyers, 2004-2010
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Hastings College of the Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Biography
John Garrett is Counsel to the firm. He has represented developers, investors and related parties in purchasing, planning, developing, financing, ownership, and leasing matters. Mr. Garrett's experience involves virtually all facets of the real estate industry.
Mr. Garrett has been a moderator, panelist and lecturer on California Continuing Education of the Bar and other land acquisition, development and financing panels, and has been a speaker on real estate development issues to the real estate industry. He has been included in The Best Lawyers in America, Real Estate Law, for its past several biennial editions. In the past, the California Real Estate Journal named Mr. Garrett among the best real estate lawyers in California. Annual editions of Los Angeles Magazine have included him in its list of Southern California "Super Lawyers."
Mr. Garrett is a former president of the Orange County Bar Association. He has served on the Board of Governors of a Claremont McKenna College international studies institute, on the Board of Trustees of the U.C. Irvine Foundation, and on the U.C.I. Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and has been a lecturer at U.C.I.'s Merage business school for the past several years. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (formerly, Orange County Performing Arts Center) and currently serves on the board's Executive Committee, as chair of its Audit Committee, and on its Long Range Planning and Board Development Committees.
Education
B.A., Stanford University, 1961
J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, 1966
U.S. Marine Corps Officer, 1961-1963
Affiliations
Best Lawyers in America, 1994-2011
Southern California Super Lawyers, 2004-2010
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Hastings College of the Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Hill specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on development projects, purchase and sale transactions, leasing, and financing. Mr. Hill also has significant experience in preparing and negotiating construction and architectural agreements and in forming real estate-related business entities such as limited liability companies, partnerships and joint ventures.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2004, Mr. Hill was a real estate associate with Pillsbury Winthrop LLP in San Francisco and Orange County.
Representative Transactions
Representation of public real estate investment trust in connection with leasing its portfolio of over 2 million square feet of office, industrial, and mixed-used/research and development properties.
Representation of private institutional investor in connection with its acquisition, development (both ground up and rehabilitation) and financing of over 1 million square feet of industrial properties.
Representation of mining and aggregates companies in connection with the disposition of mined-out sites, including transfers to environmental conservancies.
Representation of technology companies in connection with the purchase and/or leasing of new headquarter sites.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
J.D., Stanford Law School, 1998
M.Div., Princeton Theological Seminary, 1995
B.A., Westmont College, 1990
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
California Construction and Industrial Materials Association (CalCIMA)
UC Irvine Center for Real Estate
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2007
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
Stanford Law School
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Hill specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on development projects, purchase and sale transactions, leasing, and financing. Mr. Hill also has significant experience in preparing and negotiating construction and architectural agreements and in forming real estate-related business entities such as limited liability companies, partnerships and joint ventures.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2004, Mr. Hill was a real estate associate with Pillsbury Winthrop LLP in San Francisco and Orange County.
Representative Transactions
Representation of public real estate investment trust in connection with leasing its portfolio of over 2 million square feet of office, industrial, and mixed-used/research and development properties.
Representation of private institutional investor in connection with its acquisition, development (both ground up and rehabilitation) and financing of over 1 million square feet of industrial properties.
Representation of mining and aggregates companies in connection with the disposition of mined-out sites, including transfers to environmental conservancies.
Representation of technology companies in connection with the purchase and/or leasing of new headquarter sites.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
J.D., Stanford Law School, 1998
M.Div., Princeton Theological Seminary, 1995
B.A., Westmont College, 1990
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
California Construction and Industrial Materials Association (CalCIMA)
UC Irvine Center for Real Estate
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2007
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
Stanford Law School J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Ms. Holcomb specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, development and financing.
Ms. Holcomb has extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of retail, office, medical and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Holcomb has significant experience representing property owners and developers in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial and retail buildings, raw land, and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Holcomb also handles secured financing matters on behalf of lenders and borrowers in connection with acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in March 2007, Ms. Holcomb was a real estate associate with Schwabe Williamson & Wyatt, P.C., one of the Northwest's leading law firms, whose real estate group is one of the top-ranked practices in Oregon according to Chambers USA. Ms. Holcomb is admitted to practice in both Oregon and California.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for international company in connection with solar facility development projects throughout California
Representation of real estate investment trust in connection with its acquisition of multi-family residential projects throughout the country, totaling over $500 million
Representation of national health care company tenant in connection with the leasing of over 200,000 square feet of medical and office space throughout California
Representation of restaurant owners in connection with various real estate matters throughout the United States
Representation of property owner with a portfolio of over 3.5 million square feet of office, industrial and retail space in Southern California and Texas in connection with various financing and leasing matters.
Education
J.D., University of Oregon Law School (Associate Editor, Oregon Law Review), 2004
B.A., University of Oregon, 1999
Representative Speaking Engagements
"Select Issues in the Construction and Improvement of Commercial Space" (2012), Law Seminars International
Affiliations
Oregon State Bar (Real Estate and Land Use sections)
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal, Commercial Leasing and Executive Women sections)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2010-2014
University of Oregon Law School
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Ms. Holcomb specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, development and financing.
Ms. Holcomb has extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of retail, office, medical and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Holcomb has significant experience representing property owners and developers in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial and retail buildings, raw land, and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Holcomb also handles secured financing matters on behalf of lenders and borrowers in connection with acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in March 2007, Ms. Holcomb was a real estate associate with Schwabe Williamson & Wyatt, P.C., one of the Northwest's leading law firms, whose real estate group is one of the top-ranked practices in Oregon according to Chambers USA. Ms. Holcomb is admitted to practice in both Oregon and California.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for international company in connection with solar facility development projects throughout California
Representation of real estate investment trust in connection with its acquisition of multi-family residential projects throughout the country, totaling over $500 million
Representation of national health care company tenant in connection with the leasing of over 200,000 square feet of medical and office space throughout California
Representation of restaurant owners in connection with various real estate matters throughout the United States
Representation of property owner with a portfolio of over 3.5 million square feet of office, industrial and retail space in Southern California and Texas in connection with various financing and leasing matters.
Education
J.D., University of Oregon Law School (Associate Editor, Oregon Law Review), 2004
B.A., University of Oregon, 1999
Representative Speaking Engagements
"Select Issues in the Construction and Improvement of Commercial Space" (2012), Law Seminars International
Affiliations
Oregon State Bar (Real Estate and Land Use sections)
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal, Commercial Leasing and Executive Women sections)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2010-2014
University of Oregon Law School J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Valerie L. Inderlied specializes in the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, and commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing transactions and title matters.
Education
B.S., University of Southern California, 1981
Paralegal Certificates, California College of Paralegal Studies, Probate, 1980, Corporate, 1981
Affiliations
Member of: Orange County Paralegal Association
Member of: National Notary Association
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Valerie L. Inderlied specializes in the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, and commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing transactions and title matters.
Education
B.S., University of Southern California, 1981
Paralegal Certificates, California College of Paralegal Studies, Probate, 1980, Corporate, 1981
Affiliations
Member of: Orange County Paralegal Association
Member of: National Notary Association
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Ms. Lee specializes in commercial real estate and corporate finance, with an emphasis on purchase and sale transactions, development, leasing, and secured financing.
Ms. Lee has experience representing both landlords and tenants in office, industrial, and retail leasing transactions. In addition, Ms. Lee has experience representing property owners, developers, and investors in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial, and retail buildings and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Lee also has experience representing lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, including acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Representative Transactions
Representation of 20+ multi-million dollar commercial acquisition and financing transactions involving commercial/industrial properties, retail shopping centers, vacant and agricultural land.
Representation of a commercial developers, landlords and tenants on 30+ national/regional retail and office lease transactions.
Education
JD, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, 2005
BA, University of California, Los Angeles, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of California
Orange County Bar Association
Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), Orange County
Orange County Asian American Bar Association
The Prentice School (Board Member)
University of California, Los Angeles School of Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Ms. Lee specializes in commercial real estate and corporate finance, with an emphasis on purchase and sale transactions, development, leasing, and secured financing.
Ms. Lee has experience representing both landlords and tenants in office, industrial, and retail leasing transactions. In addition, Ms. Lee has experience representing property owners, developers, and investors in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial, and retail buildings and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Lee also has experience representing lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, including acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Representative Transactions
Representation of 20+ multi-million dollar commercial acquisition and financing transactions involving commercial/industrial properties, retail shopping centers, vacant and agricultural land.
Representation of a commercial developers, landlords and tenants on 30+ national/regional retail and office lease transactions.
Education
JD, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, 2005
BA, University of California, Los Angeles, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of California
Orange County Bar Association
Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), Orange County
Orange County Asian American Bar Association
The Prentice School (Board Member)
University of California, Los Angeles School of Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. Morrison specializes in corporate, securities and commercial business transaction matters. He represents individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail, hospitality and food service.
Mr. Morrison has extensive experience in merger and acquisition transactions, private placements, joint ventures and strategic alliances, organizing, structuring, reorganizing and dissolving corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships, and debt financings. Mr. Morrison also has significant experience in reviewing, drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial agreements (such as major supply, manufacturing and distribution agreements, licensing agreements, consulting and employment agreements and non-disclosure agreements).
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Morrison served as in-house counsel to James Hardie Building Products Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of a publicly traded multi-national building products manufacturing company. Prior to his experience with James Hardie, Mr. Morrison practiced general corporate and securities law with Bingham McCutchen LLP in Costa Mesa, California.
Education
J.D., University of California, Davis, 1998
B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1991
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Business Section)
Orange County Bar of California
Member, William P. Gray Legion Lex Inn of Court
Acknowledgments
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Davis
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. Morrison specializes in corporate, securities and commercial business transaction matters. He represents individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail, hospitality and food service.
Mr. Morrison has extensive experience in merger and acquisition transactions, private placements, joint ventures and strategic alliances, organizing, structuring, reorganizing and dissolving corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships, and debt financings. Mr. Morrison also has significant experience in reviewing, drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial agreements (such as major supply, manufacturing and distribution agreements, licensing agreements, consulting and employment agreements and non-disclosure agreements).
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Morrison served as in-house counsel to James Hardie Building Products Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of a publicly traded multi-national building products manufacturing company. Prior to his experience with James Hardie, Mr. Morrison practiced general corporate and securities law with Bingham McCutchen LLP in Costa Mesa, California.
Education
J.D., University of California, Davis, 1998
B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1991
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Business Section)
Orange County Bar of California
Member, William P. Gray Legion Lex Inn of Court
Acknowledgments
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Davis J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Mullen specializes in real estate law, with a particular emphasis on property acquisition and development, commercial and industrial leasing, construction law, and real estate finance.
Mr. Mullen represents developers, investors, and property owners in purchase and sale transactions of unimproved land and development sites and office, commercial, and industrial buildings. He has experience in preparing CC&Rs and access and easement agreements for planned developments and commercial and industrial condominium projects. Mr. Mullen also advises both lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, particularly assisting borrowers in negotiating and closing multi-family agency loans (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac).
Mr. Mullen has broad experience representing landlords and tenants in office, retail, and industrial leasing transactions. This experience includes negotiating and documenting leases for all types of clients, from small retail tenants to office landlords and tenants and owners and users of large industrial warehouse and distribution facilities. In addition, Mr. Mullen advises landlords and tenants in connection with lease disputes and a wide array of lender financing and subordination issues.
Mr. Mullen also has substantial expertise in counseling and assisting clients on documenting and managing construction projects, from tenant improvements to the construction and rehabilitation of large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a developer/general contractor in connection with the construction of multiple industrial projects in Los Angeles County, California, having an aggregate value of more than $36 million.
Representation of a multi-family public REIT in connection with the purchase and financing of multiple apartment communities nationwide, with a total value of more than $1 billion.
Representation of a developer in the construction, joint venture contribution, and sale of a $46 million, multi-building industrial project in Los Angeles County, California.
Representation of a land developer in structuring and documenting the sale of 960 acres of residential land in Riverside County, California through a complex, multiphase option transaction.
Representation of publicly-traded REIT in connection with project leasing activities at several light industrial/office projects in Hawaii and Arizona.
Education
J.D., University of Notre Dame, 1999
B.A., University of Notre Dame, 1996
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
University of Notre Dame
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Mullen specializes in real estate law, with a particular emphasis on property acquisition and development, commercial and industrial leasing, construction law, and real estate finance.
Mr. Mullen represents developers, investors, and property owners in purchase and sale transactions of unimproved land and development sites and office, commercial, and industrial buildings. He has experience in preparing CC&Rs and access and easement agreements for planned developments and commercial and industrial condominium projects. Mr. Mullen also advises both lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, particularly assisting borrowers in negotiating and closing multi-family agency loans (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac).
Mr. Mullen has broad experience representing landlords and tenants in office, retail, and industrial leasing transactions. This experience includes negotiating and documenting leases for all types of clients, from small retail tenants to office landlords and tenants and owners and users of large industrial warehouse and distribution facilities. In addition, Mr. Mullen advises landlords and tenants in connection with lease disputes and a wide array of lender financing and subordination issues.
Mr. Mullen also has substantial expertise in counseling and assisting clients on documenting and managing construction projects, from tenant improvements to the construction and rehabilitation of large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a developer/general contractor in connection with the construction of multiple industrial projects in Los Angeles County, California, having an aggregate value of more than $36 million.
Representation of a multi-family public REIT in connection with the purchase and financing of multiple apartment communities nationwide, with a total value of more than $1 billion.
Representation of a developer in the construction, joint venture contribution, and sale of a $46 million, multi-building industrial project in Los Angeles County, California.
Representation of a land developer in structuring and documenting the sale of 960 acres of residential land in Riverside County, California through a complex, multiphase option transaction.
Representation of publicly-traded REIT in connection with project leasing activities at several light industrial/office projects in Hawaii and Arizona.
Education
J.D., University of Notre Dame, 1999
B.A., University of Notre Dame, 1996
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
University of Notre Dame J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Taxation
Trust and Estate Planning
Biography
Ms. Ng specializes in corporate transaction, taxation and estate planning matters. She advises clients in a variety of business transactions, including corporate restructures, mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity offerings and real estate transactions. She has represented individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail and food service.
With an advanced degree in taxation law, Ms. Ng also handles U.S. and California income tax matters for corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies and individuals. Combining her background in corporate and taxation law, Ms. Ng is able to counsel clients comprehensively on the initial and ongoing structure of businesses and investments and to negotiate both the business and tax terms of corporate transactions and joint ventures. Ms. Ng also advises real estate developers and investors on California real property tax issues, dealer income tax and capital gains issues, and 1031 and 1033 tax-deferred exchanges.
For private and individual clients, Ms. Ng has experience advising clients on a broad range of estate planning and gifting matters such as the preparation of wills, revocable living trusts, durable powers of attorneys, health care directives as well as more sophisticated vehicles such as asset protection trusts and irrevocable defective trusts.
Prior to attending law school, Ms. Ng worked in the international business arena and is conversant in Mandarin.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $25 million joint venture development of a commercial project.
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $22 million joint venture development of a nationally franchised hotel.
Representation of a Fortune 500 company in successfully challenging a potential property tax reassessment of its Southern California plant, preventing a $20 million increase in the assessed tax value of the property.
Representation of a Southern California landlord with an aggregate of 3 million square feet of commercial property in structuring a complex 1031 tax-deferred exchange.
Representation of land and commercial property owners in connection with reassessment issues involving complex trusts and multi-tiered partnerships.
Corporate and tax representation of manufacturing and restaurant clients in connection with asset and stock sales of businesses.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
LL.M. (Masters of Tax Law), New York University School of Law, 2006
J.D., University of North Carolina School of Law, 2005
B.A., Duke University, Political Science, 2001
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Tax and Trust & Estate Sections)
State Bar of New York
Orange County Bar of California (Tax Section)
University of North Carolina School of Law
J.D.,
New York University School of Law
LL.M.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Taxation
Trust and Estate Planning
Biography
Ms. Ng specializes in corporate transaction, taxation and estate planning matters. She advises clients in a variety of business transactions, including corporate restructures, mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity offerings and real estate transactions. She has represented individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail and food service.
With an advanced degree in taxation law, Ms. Ng also handles U.S. and California income tax matters for corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies and individuals. Combining her background in corporate and taxation law, Ms. Ng is able to counsel clients comprehensively on the initial and ongoing structure of businesses and investments and to negotiate both the business and tax terms of corporate transactions and joint ventures. Ms. Ng also advises real estate developers and investors on California real property tax issues, dealer income tax and capital gains issues, and 1031 and 1033 tax-deferred exchanges.
For private and individual clients, Ms. Ng has experience advising clients on a broad range of estate planning and gifting matters such as the preparation of wills, revocable living trusts, durable powers of attorneys, health care directives as well as more sophisticated vehicles such as asset protection trusts and irrevocable defective trusts.
Prior to attending law school, Ms. Ng worked in the international business arena and is conversant in Mandarin.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $25 million joint venture development of a commercial project.
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $22 million joint venture development of a nationally franchised hotel.
Representation of a Fortune 500 company in successfully challenging a potential property tax reassessment of its Southern California plant, preventing a $20 million increase in the assessed tax value of the property.
Representation of a Southern California landlord with an aggregate of 3 million square feet of commercial property in structuring a complex 1031 tax-deferred exchange.
Representation of land and commercial property owners in connection with reassessment issues involving complex trusts and multi-tiered partnerships.
Corporate and tax representation of manufacturing and restaurant clients in connection with asset and stock sales of businesses.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
LL.M. (Masters of Tax Law), New York University School of Law, 2006
J.D., University of North Carolina School of Law, 2005
B.A., Duke University, Political Science, 2001
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Tax and Trust & Estate Sections)
State Bar of New York
Orange County Bar of California (Tax Section)
University of North Carolina School of Law J.D.,
New York University School of Law LL.M.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Karen specializes in commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing, title matters, the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, low-income housing tax credits and tax credit compliance.
Education
BA Cal State Fullerton 1978
Paralegal Certification 1982
California Department of Real Estate License Since 1988
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Karen specializes in commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing, title matters, the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, low-income housing tax credits and tax credit compliance.
Education
BA Cal State Fullerton 1978
Paralegal Certification 1982
California Department of Real Estate License Since 1988
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Institutional Lending
Mediation
Biography
Mr. Ryder specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial development, leasing and institutional lending. He is also a mediator with the Dispute Resolution Services Program of Orange County's Community Service Programs (CSP), having trained with both CSP and with the Strauss Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law.
Mr. Ryder's experience includes all aspects of acquisitions and sales, construction and permanent lending, office, commercial and industrial leasing, environmental matters, and mortgage lending restructures and workouts. He has prepared and negotiated industrial, office and retail leases used by some of the largest developers and property management firms in California, as well as construction lending, permanent lending and secured line of credit lending documentation for a number of regional commercial lenders.
Mr. Ryder's clients include major institutions with a wide variety of real estate needs, and small developers and commercial property owners with unique issues or problems requiring specialized skills and expertise. Mr. Ryder has been a lecturer at numerous real estate seminars on commercial leasing and construction lending.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Ryder was a partner with Pinto & Dubia, LLP in Irvine.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for the acquisition of seventy-two quick lube service stations throughout California
Representation of a real estate developer in a joint venture for the construction of two industrial buildings totaling approximately 400,000 sq. ft. in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of a Mexican-based developer in a master joint venture and development management agreements for the development of two separate residential/commercial projects in Monterrey, Mexico
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease with a Fortune 100 company for an approximately 550,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art distribution facility in Southern California, and in the subsequent sale of such facility
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease and option to purchase with a regional grocery company for a 375,000 sq. ft. refrigerated/freezer warehouse facility in Southern California
Education
J.D., New York University School of Law, 1982
B.A., University of Notre Dame (with high honors), 1979
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
California Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Mr. Ryder is a former member of the Board of Directors and President of Friends in Service to Humanity, Harbor Area ("FISH"), an Orange County charity that strove to prevent homelessness and provide meal assistance to low income, elderly and home-bound individuals.
Mr. Ryder is a current member of the Board of Directors of Global Grins, a locally-based international charity dedicated to raising awareness of the serious health issues connected with oral hygiene and to supplying toothbrushes to individuals around the world.
Acknowledgments
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2006
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
New York University School of Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Institutional Lending
Mediation
Biography
Mr. Ryder specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial development, leasing and institutional lending. He is also a mediator with the Dispute Resolution Services Program of Orange County's Community Service Programs (CSP), having trained with both CSP and with the Strauss Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law.
Mr. Ryder's experience includes all aspects of acquisitions and sales, construction and permanent lending, office, commercial and industrial leasing, environmental matters, and mortgage lending restructures and workouts. He has prepared and negotiated industrial, office and retail leases used by some of the largest developers and property management firms in California, as well as construction lending, permanent lending and secured line of credit lending documentation for a number of regional commercial lenders.
Mr. Ryder's clients include major institutions with a wide variety of real estate needs, and small developers and commercial property owners with unique issues or problems requiring specialized skills and expertise. Mr. Ryder has been a lecturer at numerous real estate seminars on commercial leasing and construction lending.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Ryder was a partner with Pinto & Dubia, LLP in Irvine.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for the acquisition of seventy-two quick lube service stations throughout California
Representation of a real estate developer in a joint venture for the construction of two industrial buildings totaling approximately 400,000 sq. ft. in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of a Mexican-based developer in a master joint venture and development management agreements for the development of two separate residential/commercial projects in Monterrey, Mexico
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease with a Fortune 100 company for an approximately 550,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art distribution facility in Southern California, and in the subsequent sale of such facility
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease and option to purchase with a regional grocery company for a 375,000 sq. ft. refrigerated/freezer warehouse facility in Southern California
Education
J.D., New York University School of Law, 1982
B.A., University of Notre Dame (with high honors), 1979
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
California Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Mr. Ryder is a former member of the Board of Directors and President of Friends in Service to Humanity, Harbor Area ("FISH"), an Orange County charity that strove to prevent homelessness and provide meal assistance to low income, elderly and home-bound individuals.
Mr. Ryder is a current member of the Board of Directors of Global Grins, a locally-based international charity dedicated to raising awareness of the serious health issues connected with oral hygiene and to supplying toothbrushes to individuals around the world.
Acknowledgments
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2006
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
New York University School of Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Henry R. Stiepel represents owners, investors, asset managers, and corporate users in industrial and commercial real property sales, acquisitions, financing, development, and leasing. Mr. Stiepel has more than 28 years of extensive experience in actively negotiating the acquisition, disposition, financing and leasing of office, industrial, R&D and retail projects.
Mr. Stiepel's experience includes the negotiation preparation and review of purchase contracts, leases, ground leases, construction documents, financing documents, easement agreements, management contracts, agreements with counties and municipalities and related development agreements.
Since 2005, Mr. Stiepel has been named one of "The Best Lawyers in America", Real Estate Law. He has also received an A-V Peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest legal ability rating available. Mr. Stiepel has served on the Board of Directors of the U.C. Irvine Athletic Association and on the U.C. Irvine Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and the Executive Board of the Orange County Council, Boy Scouts of America.
Recent Representative Transactions
Representation of landlord in negotiation of 108,000 combined square foot office and warehouse mixed use lease with international electronics manufacturer.
Representation of portfolio owner of commercial, industrial and retail projects in $20 million of multi-state refinancings.
Representation of landlord in connection with 86,000 commercial/industrial lease to aerospace industry manufacturer.
Representation of joint venture in connection with approximately $70 million of acquisitions of agricultural and dairy properties in California and Arizona.
Representation of developer in procurement of development rights for 500,000 square foot commercial and retail development, and subsequent parcelization and sale.
Representation of owner in connection with development agreement and related easement and municipal agreements for construction of 600,000 square foot office project.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law Center (Editor, Law Review), 1981
B.A., University of California at Irvine (cum laude), 1978
Affiliations
State Bar of California
California Bar Association (Real Property Law Section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2009
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law Center
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Henry R. Stiepel represents owners, investors, asset managers, and corporate users in industrial and commercial real property sales, acquisitions, financing, development, and leasing. Mr. Stiepel has more than 28 years of extensive experience in actively negotiating the acquisition, disposition, financing and leasing of office, industrial, R&D and retail projects.
Mr. Stiepel's experience includes the negotiation preparation and review of purchase contracts, leases, ground leases, construction documents, financing documents, easement agreements, management contracts, agreements with counties and municipalities and related development agreements.
Since 2005, Mr. Stiepel has been named one of "The Best Lawyers in America", Real Estate Law. He has also received an A-V Peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest legal ability rating available. Mr. Stiepel has served on the Board of Directors of the U.C. Irvine Athletic Association and on the U.C. Irvine Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and the Executive Board of the Orange County Council, Boy Scouts of America.
Recent Representative Transactions
Representation of landlord in negotiation of 108,000 combined square foot office and warehouse mixed use lease with international electronics manufacturer.
Representation of portfolio owner of commercial, industrial and retail projects in $20 million of multi-state refinancings.
Representation of landlord in connection with 86,000 commercial/industrial lease to aerospace industry manufacturer.
Representation of joint venture in connection with approximately $70 million of acquisitions of agricultural and dairy properties in California and Arizona.
Representation of developer in procurement of development rights for 500,000 square foot commercial and retail development, and subsequent parcelization and sale.
Representation of owner in connection with development agreement and related easement and municipal agreements for construction of 600,000 square foot office project.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law Center (Editor, Law Review), 1981
B.A., University of California at Irvine (cum laude), 1978
Affiliations
State Bar of California
California Bar Association (Real Property Law Section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2009
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law Center J.D.,
We specialize in business transactional matters, including real estate and construction transactions, joint ventures, equity and debt financings, the formation, capitalization, governance, restructure and dissolution of legal entities, merger and acquisition transactions, the drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements, tax analysis and counseling, estate planning and the mediation of commercial disputes.
Our clients range from individual investors and entrepreneurs to regional, national and international companies, including technology companies, manufacturing companies, mining companies, health care companies, professional service providers, franchisees, real estate owners and development companies, REITs, lenders and property managers.
Our team represents over 150 years of collective legal and industry experience, providing the breadth and depth to handle the most complex matters with real world focus, creativity and efficiency.
Main Office
3200 Bristol Street, Suite 850, Pacific Arts Plaza
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714-384-4300
Commercial Real Estate
We offer extensive experience, effective strategies, and a practical approach to help institutional and private investors, commercial developers, national and regional financial institutions, real estate investment trusts (REITs), retail companies, health care providers, mining operators, energy suppliers, asset managers and property owners with commercial real estate transactions locally, statewide and nationwide. We establish exceptional working relationships with our clients by learning the ins and outs of their businesses and acting as a valued counsel in every aspect of our clients' real estate transactions.
The varied backgrounds of our team members, representing more than 150 years of collective legal experience, includes extensive experience in acquiring, financing, developing, selling and leasing almost every type of commercial real estate from office buildings to industrial projects, from shopping centers to mixed use developments, and from agricultural property to residential subdivisions. Our distinctive experience and expertise, together with our knowledge of the marketplace, enable us to efficiently identify and resolve commercial real estate issues and guide our clients through their commercial real estate transactions in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
We specialize in the following areas:
-Commercial Leasing
-Development Projects
-Purchase and Sale Transactions
-Real Estate Financing
Practice Specialties
-Purchase and Sale Transactions
-Commercial Leasing
-Corporate and Business Transactions
-Real Estate Financing
-Mediation
Biography
Ms. Chaney specializes in real estate law with an emphasis on financing, leasing, purchase and sale transactions and development. She is also a certified mediator, having trained with Orange County's CSP (Community Service Programs) Dispute Resolution Services Program.
Ms. Chaney represents lenders and borrowers in the origination, restructuring and participation of acquisition, construction and mezzanine financing secured by various types of real property, including office buildings, retail centers, hotels, and mixed-use and multi-family properties. Ms. Chaney has experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of office, retail and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Chaney has extensive experience drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial contracts.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in July 2012, Ms. Chaney served as in-house counsel to Placentia Recycling Inc. Prior to her experience at Placentia Recycling, Ms. Chaney was an associate with Schulte Roth & Zabel in New York, where her practice focused on complex financing transactions, commercial leasing, and acquisitions and dispositions of real property. Ms. Chaney is admitted to practice in both New York and California.
Education
J.D., Columbia University School of Law, 2006
B.A., University of California, Irvine, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of New York
State Bar of California
Columbia University School of Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
-Purchase and Sale Transactions
-Commercial Leasing
-Corporate and Business Transactions
-Real Estate Financing
-Mediation
Biography
Ms. Chaney specializes in real estate law with an emphasis on financing, leasing, purchase and sale transactions and development. She is also a certified mediator, having trained with Orange County's CSP (Community Service Programs) Dispute Resolution Services Program.
Ms. Chaney represents lenders and borrowers in the origination, restructuring and participation of acquisition, construction and mezzanine financing secured by various types of real property, including office buildings, retail centers, hotels, and mixed-use and multi-family properties. Ms. Chaney has experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of office, retail and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Chaney has extensive experience drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial contracts.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in July 2012, Ms. Chaney served as in-house counsel to Placentia Recycling Inc. Prior to her experience at Placentia Recycling, Ms. Chaney was an associate with Schulte Roth & Zabel in New York, where her practice focused on complex financing transactions, commercial leasing, and acquisitions and dispositions of real property. Ms. Chaney is admitted to practice in both New York and California.
Education
J.D., Columbia University School of Law, 2006
B.A., University of California, Irvine, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of New York
State Bar of California
Columbia University School of Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Leasing
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Mr. Cho specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, financing and development. His practice involves the representation of major corporations, national and regional developers, small to mid-size companies and individuals in a broad range of real estate transactions and projects throughout the United States, including the acquisition and disposition of developed and undeveloped real property, office, retail, industrial and ground leasing, acquisition and construction financing, and the negotiation, preparation and review of easements, license agreements, CC&Rs, construction contracts, commercial agreements and other due diligence matters.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2002, Mr. Cho was an associate with the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. Cho has been named one of Southern California's "Super Lawyers Rising Stars" every year since 2005.
Representative Transactions
Representation of real estate developer in connection with the purchase of single and multi-tenant retail pads throughout the United States
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the purchase of a 1.2 million square foot retail mall in Sacramento County, California
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the leasing of its 430,000 square foot office project in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of for-profit college in connection with the leasing of campus sites throughout Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Riverside Counties
Representation of national manufacturing company in connection with the leasing of over 500,000 square feet of industrial space throughout the United States
Representation of regional developer in connection with construction financing for the construction of a high-end senior living facility in Orange County, California
Education
J.D., University of Southern California (Articles Editor, Law Review), 1998
B.A., University of California at Los Angeles, 1995
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2012
University of Southern California
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Leasing
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Mr. Cho specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, financing and development. His practice involves the representation of major corporations, national and regional developers, small to mid-size companies and individuals in a broad range of real estate transactions and projects throughout the United States, including the acquisition and disposition of developed and undeveloped real property, office, retail, industrial and ground leasing, acquisition and construction financing, and the negotiation, preparation and review of easements, license agreements, CC&Rs, construction contracts, commercial agreements and other due diligence matters.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2002, Mr. Cho was an associate with the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. Cho has been named one of Southern California's "Super Lawyers Rising Stars" every year since 2005.
Representative Transactions
Representation of real estate developer in connection with the purchase of single and multi-tenant retail pads throughout the United States
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the purchase of a 1.2 million square foot retail mall in Sacramento County, California
Representation of national real estate development company in connection with the leasing of its 430,000 square foot office project in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of for-profit college in connection with the leasing of campus sites throughout Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Riverside Counties
Representation of national manufacturing company in connection with the leasing of over 500,000 square feet of industrial space throughout the United States
Representation of regional developer in connection with construction financing for the construction of a high-end senior living facility in Orange County, California
Education
J.D., University of Southern California (Articles Editor, Law Review), 1998
B.A., University of California at Los Angeles, 1995
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2012
University of Southern California J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. De Frenza specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial leasing, purchase and sale transactions, construction law, and financing.
Mr. De Frenza's experience includes drafting and negotiating ground leases and leases for office, retail, restaurant, medical use and industrial space. He handles purchase and sale agreements for unimproved land and for office, research and development, retail, apartment, industrial, restaurant and hotel properties. Mr. De Frenza also prepares reciprocal easement agreements, property management agreements, covenants, conditions and restrictions, and various development-related agreements with public entities and between landowners.
Mr. De Frenza's representation includes major insurance companies, real estate investment companies, real estate development companies, national and regional quick service and casual dining restaurant chains, national tenant representation of a real estate financial services firm, a wireless telecommunications company, property management companies and individuals. Mr. De Frenza also has provided real estate expertise in complex litigation matters involving real property.
Prior to co-founding Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. De Frenza was the supervising partner of the Business Group of the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. De Frenza has been a speaker on due diligence in real estate transactions, premises liability issues, wireless communication site leases and recent developments in real property law.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law School (Senior Staff, Law Review), 1988
B.S., University of California at Los Angeles (cum laude), 1985
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal and Commercial Leasing sections)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2007
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2010
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law School
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. De Frenza specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial leasing, purchase and sale transactions, construction law, and financing.
Mr. De Frenza's experience includes drafting and negotiating ground leases and leases for office, retail, restaurant, medical use and industrial space. He handles purchase and sale agreements for unimproved land and for office, research and development, retail, apartment, industrial, restaurant and hotel properties. Mr. De Frenza also prepares reciprocal easement agreements, property management agreements, covenants, conditions and restrictions, and various development-related agreements with public entities and between landowners.
Mr. De Frenza's representation includes major insurance companies, real estate investment companies, real estate development companies, national and regional quick service and casual dining restaurant chains, national tenant representation of a real estate financial services firm, a wireless telecommunications company, property management companies and individuals. Mr. De Frenza also has provided real estate expertise in complex litigation matters involving real property.
Prior to co-founding Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. De Frenza was the supervising partner of the Business Group of the Orange County office of Pillsbury Winthrop LLP. Mr. De Frenza has been a speaker on due diligence in real estate transactions, premises liability issues, wireless communication site leases and recent developments in real property law.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law School (Senior Staff, Law Review), 1988
B.S., University of California at Los Angeles (cum laude), 1985
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal and Commercial Leasing sections)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2007
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2010
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law School J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Biography
John Garrett is Counsel to the firm. He has represented developers, investors and related parties in purchasing, planning, developing, financing, ownership, and leasing matters. Mr. Garrett's experience involves virtually all facets of the real estate industry.
Mr. Garrett has been a moderator, panelist and lecturer on California Continuing Education of the Bar and other land acquisition, development and financing panels, and has been a speaker on real estate development issues to the real estate industry. He has been included in The Best Lawyers in America, Real Estate Law, for its past several biennial editions. In the past, the California Real Estate Journal named Mr. Garrett among the best real estate lawyers in California. Annual editions of Los Angeles Magazine have included him in its list of Southern California "Super Lawyers."
Mr. Garrett is a former president of the Orange County Bar Association. He has served on the Board of Governors of a Claremont McKenna College international studies institute, on the Board of Trustees of the U.C. Irvine Foundation, and on the U.C.I. Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and has been a lecturer at U.C.I.'s Merage business school for the past several years. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (formerly, Orange County Performing Arts Center) and currently serves on the board's Executive Committee, as chair of its Audit Committee, and on its Long Range Planning and Board Development Committees.
Education
B.A., Stanford University, 1961
J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, 1966
U.S. Marine Corps Officer, 1961-1963
Affiliations
Best Lawyers in America, 1994-2011
Southern California Super Lawyers, 2004-2010
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Hastings College of the Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Biography
John Garrett is Counsel to the firm. He has represented developers, investors and related parties in purchasing, planning, developing, financing, ownership, and leasing matters. Mr. Garrett's experience involves virtually all facets of the real estate industry.
Mr. Garrett has been a moderator, panelist and lecturer on California Continuing Education of the Bar and other land acquisition, development and financing panels, and has been a speaker on real estate development issues to the real estate industry. He has been included in The Best Lawyers in America, Real Estate Law, for its past several biennial editions. In the past, the California Real Estate Journal named Mr. Garrett among the best real estate lawyers in California. Annual editions of Los Angeles Magazine have included him in its list of Southern California "Super Lawyers."
Mr. Garrett is a former president of the Orange County Bar Association. He has served on the Board of Governors of a Claremont McKenna College international studies institute, on the Board of Trustees of the U.C. Irvine Foundation, and on the U.C.I. Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and has been a lecturer at U.C.I.'s Merage business school for the past several years. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (formerly, Orange County Performing Arts Center) and currently serves on the board's Executive Committee, as chair of its Audit Committee, and on its Long Range Planning and Board Development Committees.
Education
B.A., Stanford University, 1961
J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, 1966
U.S. Marine Corps Officer, 1961-1963
Affiliations
Best Lawyers in America, 1994-2011
Southern California Super Lawyers, 2004-2010
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Hastings College of the Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Hill specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on development projects, purchase and sale transactions, leasing, and financing. Mr. Hill also has significant experience in preparing and negotiating construction and architectural agreements and in forming real estate-related business entities such as limited liability companies, partnerships and joint ventures.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2004, Mr. Hill was a real estate associate with Pillsbury Winthrop LLP in San Francisco and Orange County.
Representative Transactions
Representation of public real estate investment trust in connection with leasing its portfolio of over 2 million square feet of office, industrial, and mixed-used/research and development properties.
Representation of private institutional investor in connection with its acquisition, development (both ground up and rehabilitation) and financing of over 1 million square feet of industrial properties.
Representation of mining and aggregates companies in connection with the disposition of mined-out sites, including transfers to environmental conservancies.
Representation of technology companies in connection with the purchase and/or leasing of new headquarter sites.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
J.D., Stanford Law School, 1998
M.Div., Princeton Theological Seminary, 1995
B.A., Westmont College, 1990
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
California Construction and Industrial Materials Association (CalCIMA)
UC Irvine Center for Real Estate
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2007
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
Stanford Law School
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Hill specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on development projects, purchase and sale transactions, leasing, and financing. Mr. Hill also has significant experience in preparing and negotiating construction and architectural agreements and in forming real estate-related business entities such as limited liability companies, partnerships and joint ventures.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in 2004, Mr. Hill was a real estate associate with Pillsbury Winthrop LLP in San Francisco and Orange County.
Representative Transactions
Representation of public real estate investment trust in connection with leasing its portfolio of over 2 million square feet of office, industrial, and mixed-used/research and development properties.
Representation of private institutional investor in connection with its acquisition, development (both ground up and rehabilitation) and financing of over 1 million square feet of industrial properties.
Representation of mining and aggregates companies in connection with the disposition of mined-out sites, including transfers to environmental conservancies.
Representation of technology companies in connection with the purchase and/or leasing of new headquarter sites.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
J.D., Stanford Law School, 1998
M.Div., Princeton Theological Seminary, 1995
B.A., Westmont College, 1990
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property and Construction Law sections)
California Construction and Industrial Materials Association (CalCIMA)
UC Irvine Center for Real Estate
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars (Attorneys Under 40), 2005-2007
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
Stanford Law School J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Ms. Holcomb specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, development and financing.
Ms. Holcomb has extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of retail, office, medical and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Holcomb has significant experience representing property owners and developers in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial and retail buildings, raw land, and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Holcomb also handles secured financing matters on behalf of lenders and borrowers in connection with acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in March 2007, Ms. Holcomb was a real estate associate with Schwabe Williamson & Wyatt, P.C., one of the Northwest's leading law firms, whose real estate group is one of the top-ranked practices in Oregon according to Chambers USA. Ms. Holcomb is admitted to practice in both Oregon and California.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for international company in connection with solar facility development projects throughout California
Representation of real estate investment trust in connection with its acquisition of multi-family residential projects throughout the country, totaling over $500 million
Representation of national health care company tenant in connection with the leasing of over 200,000 square feet of medical and office space throughout California
Representation of restaurant owners in connection with various real estate matters throughout the United States
Representation of property owner with a portfolio of over 3.5 million square feet of office, industrial and retail space in Southern California and Texas in connection with various financing and leasing matters.
Education
J.D., University of Oregon Law School (Associate Editor, Oregon Law Review), 2004
B.A., University of Oregon, 1999
Representative Speaking Engagements
"Select Issues in the Construction and Improvement of Commercial Space" (2012), Law Seminars International
Affiliations
Oregon State Bar (Real Estate and Land Use sections)
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal, Commercial Leasing and Executive Women sections)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2010-2014
University of Oregon Law School
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Ms. Holcomb specializes in commercial real estate law, with an emphasis on leasing, purchase and sale transactions, development and financing.
Ms. Holcomb has extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in all aspects of retail, office, medical and industrial leasing. In addition, Ms. Holcomb has significant experience representing property owners and developers in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial and retail buildings, raw land, and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Holcomb also handles secured financing matters on behalf of lenders and borrowers in connection with acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP in March 2007, Ms. Holcomb was a real estate associate with Schwabe Williamson & Wyatt, P.C., one of the Northwest's leading law firms, whose real estate group is one of the top-ranked practices in Oregon according to Chambers USA. Ms. Holcomb is admitted to practice in both Oregon and California.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for international company in connection with solar facility development projects throughout California
Representation of real estate investment trust in connection with its acquisition of multi-family residential projects throughout the country, totaling over $500 million
Representation of national health care company tenant in connection with the leasing of over 200,000 square feet of medical and office space throughout California
Representation of restaurant owners in connection with various real estate matters throughout the United States
Representation of property owner with a portfolio of over 3.5 million square feet of office, industrial and retail space in Southern California and Texas in connection with various financing and leasing matters.
Education
J.D., University of Oregon Law School (Associate Editor, Oregon Law Review), 2004
B.A., University of Oregon, 1999
Representative Speaking Engagements
"Select Issues in the Construction and Improvement of Commercial Space" (2012), Law Seminars International
Affiliations
Oregon State Bar (Real Estate and Land Use sections)
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
South Coast Metro Alliance (Legal, Commercial Leasing and Executive Women sections)
Acknowledgments
Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2010-2014
University of Oregon Law School J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Valerie L. Inderlied specializes in the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, and commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing transactions and title matters.
Education
B.S., University of Southern California, 1981
Paralegal Certificates, California College of Paralegal Studies, Probate, 1980, Corporate, 1981
Affiliations
Member of: Orange County Paralegal Association
Member of: National Notary Association
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Valerie L. Inderlied specializes in the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, and commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing transactions and title matters.
Education
B.S., University of Southern California, 1981
Paralegal Certificates, California College of Paralegal Studies, Probate, 1980, Corporate, 1981
Affiliations
Member of: Orange County Paralegal Association
Member of: National Notary Association
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Ms. Lee specializes in commercial real estate and corporate finance, with an emphasis on purchase and sale transactions, development, leasing, and secured financing.
Ms. Lee has experience representing both landlords and tenants in office, industrial, and retail leasing transactions. In addition, Ms. Lee has experience representing property owners, developers, and investors in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial, and retail buildings and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Lee also has experience representing lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, including acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Representative Transactions
Representation of 20+ multi-million dollar commercial acquisition and financing transactions involving commercial/industrial properties, retail shopping centers, vacant and agricultural land.
Representation of a commercial developers, landlords and tenants on 30+ national/regional retail and office lease transactions.
Education
JD, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, 2005
BA, University of California, Los Angeles, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of California
Orange County Bar Association
Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), Orange County
Orange County Asian American Bar Association
The Prentice School (Board Member)
University of California, Los Angeles School of Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Ms. Lee specializes in commercial real estate and corporate finance, with an emphasis on purchase and sale transactions, development, leasing, and secured financing.
Ms. Lee has experience representing both landlords and tenants in office, industrial, and retail leasing transactions. In addition, Ms. Lee has experience representing property owners, developers, and investors in purchase and sale transactions involving commercial, industrial, and retail buildings and multi-family residential projects, including analysis of complex title, survey and due diligence issues. Ms. Lee also has experience representing lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, including acquisition, construction, and permanent financing of development and investment properties.
Representative Transactions
Representation of 20+ multi-million dollar commercial acquisition and financing transactions involving commercial/industrial properties, retail shopping centers, vacant and agricultural land.
Representation of a commercial developers, landlords and tenants on 30+ national/regional retail and office lease transactions.
Education
JD, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, 2005
BA, University of California, Los Angeles, 2002
Affiliations
State Bar of California
Orange County Bar Association
Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), Orange County
Orange County Asian American Bar Association
The Prentice School (Board Member)
University of California, Los Angeles School of Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. Morrison specializes in corporate, securities and commercial business transaction matters. He represents individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail, hospitality and food service.
Mr. Morrison has extensive experience in merger and acquisition transactions, private placements, joint ventures and strategic alliances, organizing, structuring, reorganizing and dissolving corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships, and debt financings. Mr. Morrison also has significant experience in reviewing, drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial agreements (such as major supply, manufacturing and distribution agreements, licensing agreements, consulting and employment agreements and non-disclosure agreements).
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Morrison served as in-house counsel to James Hardie Building Products Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of a publicly traded multi-national building products manufacturing company. Prior to his experience with James Hardie, Mr. Morrison practiced general corporate and securities law with Bingham McCutchen LLP in Costa Mesa, California.
Education
J.D., University of California, Davis, 1998
B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1991
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Business Section)
Orange County Bar of California
Member, William P. Gray Legion Lex Inn of Court
Acknowledgments
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Davis
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Mr. Morrison specializes in corporate, securities and commercial business transaction matters. He represents individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail, hospitality and food service.
Mr. Morrison has extensive experience in merger and acquisition transactions, private placements, joint ventures and strategic alliances, organizing, structuring, reorganizing and dissolving corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships, and debt financings. Mr. Morrison also has significant experience in reviewing, drafting and negotiating a broad range of commercial agreements (such as major supply, manufacturing and distribution agreements, licensing agreements, consulting and employment agreements and non-disclosure agreements).
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Morrison served as in-house counsel to James Hardie Building Products Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of a publicly traded multi-national building products manufacturing company. Prior to his experience with James Hardie, Mr. Morrison practiced general corporate and securities law with Bingham McCutchen LLP in Costa Mesa, California.
Education
J.D., University of California, Davis, 1998
B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1991
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Business Section)
Orange County Bar of California
Member, William P. Gray Legion Lex Inn of Court
Acknowledgments
A-V Peer Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of California, Davis J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Mullen specializes in real estate law, with a particular emphasis on property acquisition and development, commercial and industrial leasing, construction law, and real estate finance.
Mr. Mullen represents developers, investors, and property owners in purchase and sale transactions of unimproved land and development sites and office, commercial, and industrial buildings. He has experience in preparing CC&Rs and access and easement agreements for planned developments and commercial and industrial condominium projects. Mr. Mullen also advises both lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, particularly assisting borrowers in negotiating and closing multi-family agency loans (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac).
Mr. Mullen has broad experience representing landlords and tenants in office, retail, and industrial leasing transactions. This experience includes negotiating and documenting leases for all types of clients, from small retail tenants to office landlords and tenants and owners and users of large industrial warehouse and distribution facilities. In addition, Mr. Mullen advises landlords and tenants in connection with lease disputes and a wide array of lender financing and subordination issues.
Mr. Mullen also has substantial expertise in counseling and assisting clients on documenting and managing construction projects, from tenant improvements to the construction and rehabilitation of large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a developer/general contractor in connection with the construction of multiple industrial projects in Los Angeles County, California, having an aggregate value of more than $36 million.
Representation of a multi-family public REIT in connection with the purchase and financing of multiple apartment communities nationwide, with a total value of more than $1 billion.
Representation of a developer in the construction, joint venture contribution, and sale of a $46 million, multi-building industrial project in Los Angeles County, California.
Representation of a land developer in structuring and documenting the sale of 960 acres of residential land in Riverside County, California through a complex, multiphase option transaction.
Representation of publicly-traded REIT in connection with project leasing activities at several light industrial/office projects in Hawaii and Arizona.
Education
J.D., University of Notre Dame, 1999
B.A., University of Notre Dame, 1996
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
University of Notre Dame
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Biography
Mr. Mullen specializes in real estate law, with a particular emphasis on property acquisition and development, commercial and industrial leasing, construction law, and real estate finance.
Mr. Mullen represents developers, investors, and property owners in purchase and sale transactions of unimproved land and development sites and office, commercial, and industrial buildings. He has experience in preparing CC&Rs and access and easement agreements for planned developments and commercial and industrial condominium projects. Mr. Mullen also advises both lenders and borrowers in secured financing matters, particularly assisting borrowers in negotiating and closing multi-family agency loans (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac).
Mr. Mullen has broad experience representing landlords and tenants in office, retail, and industrial leasing transactions. This experience includes negotiating and documenting leases for all types of clients, from small retail tenants to office landlords and tenants and owners and users of large industrial warehouse and distribution facilities. In addition, Mr. Mullen advises landlords and tenants in connection with lease disputes and a wide array of lender financing and subordination issues.
Mr. Mullen also has substantial expertise in counseling and assisting clients on documenting and managing construction projects, from tenant improvements to the construction and rehabilitation of large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a developer/general contractor in connection with the construction of multiple industrial projects in Los Angeles County, California, having an aggregate value of more than $36 million.
Representation of a multi-family public REIT in connection with the purchase and financing of multiple apartment communities nationwide, with a total value of more than $1 billion.
Representation of a developer in the construction, joint venture contribution, and sale of a $46 million, multi-building industrial project in Los Angeles County, California.
Representation of a land developer in structuring and documenting the sale of 960 acres of residential land in Riverside County, California through a complex, multiphase option transaction.
Representation of publicly-traded REIT in connection with project leasing activities at several light industrial/office projects in Hawaii and Arizona.
Education
J.D., University of Notre Dame, 1999
B.A., University of Notre Dame, 1996
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
University of Notre Dame J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Taxation
Trust and Estate Planning
Biography
Ms. Ng specializes in corporate transaction, taxation and estate planning matters. She advises clients in a variety of business transactions, including corporate restructures, mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity offerings and real estate transactions. She has represented individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail and food service.
With an advanced degree in taxation law, Ms. Ng also handles U.S. and California income tax matters for corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies and individuals. Combining her background in corporate and taxation law, Ms. Ng is able to counsel clients comprehensively on the initial and ongoing structure of businesses and investments and to negotiate both the business and tax terms of corporate transactions and joint ventures. Ms. Ng also advises real estate developers and investors on California real property tax issues, dealer income tax and capital gains issues, and 1031 and 1033 tax-deferred exchanges.
For private and individual clients, Ms. Ng has experience advising clients on a broad range of estate planning and gifting matters such as the preparation of wills, revocable living trusts, durable powers of attorneys, health care directives as well as more sophisticated vehicles such as asset protection trusts and irrevocable defective trusts.
Prior to attending law school, Ms. Ng worked in the international business arena and is conversant in Mandarin.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $25 million joint venture development of a commercial project.
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $22 million joint venture development of a nationally franchised hotel.
Representation of a Fortune 500 company in successfully challenging a potential property tax reassessment of its Southern California plant, preventing a $20 million increase in the assessed tax value of the property.
Representation of a Southern California landlord with an aggregate of 3 million square feet of commercial property in structuring a complex 1031 tax-deferred exchange.
Representation of land and commercial property owners in connection with reassessment issues involving complex trusts and multi-tiered partnerships.
Corporate and tax representation of manufacturing and restaurant clients in connection with asset and stock sales of businesses.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
LL.M. (Masters of Tax Law), New York University School of Law, 2006
J.D., University of North Carolina School of Law, 2005
B.A., Duke University, Political Science, 2001
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Tax and Trust & Estate Sections)
State Bar of New York
Orange County Bar of California (Tax Section)
University of North Carolina School of Law
J.D.,
New York University School of Law
LL.M.,
Practice Specialties
Corporate and Business Transactions
Taxation
Trust and Estate Planning
Biography
Ms. Ng specializes in corporate transaction, taxation and estate planning matters. She advises clients in a variety of business transactions, including corporate restructures, mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity offerings and real estate transactions. She has represented individuals, partnerships, small and mid-size businesses, and national companies from a variety of industries including manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, technology, medical device, professional services, retail and food service.
With an advanced degree in taxation law, Ms. Ng also handles U.S. and California income tax matters for corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies and individuals. Combining her background in corporate and taxation law, Ms. Ng is able to counsel clients comprehensively on the initial and ongoing structure of businesses and investments and to negotiate both the business and tax terms of corporate transactions and joint ventures. Ms. Ng also advises real estate developers and investors on California real property tax issues, dealer income tax and capital gains issues, and 1031 and 1033 tax-deferred exchanges.
For private and individual clients, Ms. Ng has experience advising clients on a broad range of estate planning and gifting matters such as the preparation of wills, revocable living trusts, durable powers of attorneys, health care directives as well as more sophisticated vehicles such as asset protection trusts and irrevocable defective trusts.
Prior to attending law school, Ms. Ng worked in the international business arena and is conversant in Mandarin.
Representative Transactions
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $25 million joint venture development of a commercial project.
Representation of a real estate developer in negotiating and drafting tax provisions for a $22 million joint venture development of a nationally franchised hotel.
Representation of a Fortune 500 company in successfully challenging a potential property tax reassessment of its Southern California plant, preventing a $20 million increase in the assessed tax value of the property.
Representation of a Southern California landlord with an aggregate of 3 million square feet of commercial property in structuring a complex 1031 tax-deferred exchange.
Representation of land and commercial property owners in connection with reassessment issues involving complex trusts and multi-tiered partnerships.
Corporate and tax representation of manufacturing and restaurant clients in connection with asset and stock sales of businesses.
Representation of owners of multi-family housing projects in connection with Freddie Mac financing, including related restructuring of ownership entities.
Education
LL.M. (Masters of Tax Law), New York University School of Law, 2006
J.D., University of North Carolina School of Law, 2005
B.A., Duke University, Political Science, 2001
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Tax and Trust & Estate Sections)
State Bar of New York
Orange County Bar of California (Tax Section)
University of North Carolina School of Law J.D.,
New York University School of Law LL.M.,
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Karen specializes in commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing, title matters, the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, low-income housing tax credits and tax credit compliance.
Education
BA Cal State Fullerton 1978
Paralegal Certification 1982
California Department of Real Estate License Since 1988
Practice Specialties
Commercial Real Estate
Corporate and Business Transactions
Biography
Karen specializes in commercial real property purchase, sale, lease, financing, title matters, the formation and operation of corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, low-income housing tax credits and tax credit compliance.
Education
BA Cal State Fullerton 1978
Paralegal Certification 1982
California Department of Real Estate License Since 1988
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Institutional Lending
Mediation
Biography
Mr. Ryder specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial development, leasing and institutional lending. He is also a mediator with the Dispute Resolution Services Program of Orange County's Community Service Programs (CSP), having trained with both CSP and with the Strauss Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law.
Mr. Ryder's experience includes all aspects of acquisitions and sales, construction and permanent lending, office, commercial and industrial leasing, environmental matters, and mortgage lending restructures and workouts. He has prepared and negotiated industrial, office and retail leases used by some of the largest developers and property management firms in California, as well as construction lending, permanent lending and secured line of credit lending documentation for a number of regional commercial lenders.
Mr. Ryder's clients include major institutions with a wide variety of real estate needs, and small developers and commercial property owners with unique issues or problems requiring specialized skills and expertise. Mr. Ryder has been a lecturer at numerous real estate seminars on commercial leasing and construction lending.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Ryder was a partner with Pinto & Dubia, LLP in Irvine.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for the acquisition of seventy-two quick lube service stations throughout California
Representation of a real estate developer in a joint venture for the construction of two industrial buildings totaling approximately 400,000 sq. ft. in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of a Mexican-based developer in a master joint venture and development management agreements for the development of two separate residential/commercial projects in Monterrey, Mexico
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease with a Fortune 100 company for an approximately 550,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art distribution facility in Southern California, and in the subsequent sale of such facility
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease and option to purchase with a regional grocery company for a 375,000 sq. ft. refrigerated/freezer warehouse facility in Southern California
Education
J.D., New York University School of Law, 1982
B.A., University of Notre Dame (with high honors), 1979
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
California Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Mr. Ryder is a former member of the Board of Directors and President of Friends in Service to Humanity, Harbor Area ("FISH"), an Orange County charity that strove to prevent homelessness and provide meal assistance to low income, elderly and home-bound individuals.
Mr. Ryder is a current member of the Board of Directors of Global Grins, a locally-based international charity dedicated to raising awareness of the serious health issues connected with oral hygiene and to supplying toothbrushes to individuals around the world.
Acknowledgments
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2006
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
New York University School of Law
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Development Projects
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Corporate and Business Transactions
Real Estate Financing
Institutional Lending
Mediation
Biography
Mr. Ryder specializes in real property law with an emphasis on commercial development, leasing and institutional lending. He is also a mediator with the Dispute Resolution Services Program of Orange County's Community Service Programs (CSP), having trained with both CSP and with the Strauss Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law.
Mr. Ryder's experience includes all aspects of acquisitions and sales, construction and permanent lending, office, commercial and industrial leasing, environmental matters, and mortgage lending restructures and workouts. He has prepared and negotiated industrial, office and retail leases used by some of the largest developers and property management firms in California, as well as construction lending, permanent lending and secured line of credit lending documentation for a number of regional commercial lenders.
Mr. Ryder's clients include major institutions with a wide variety of real estate needs, and small developers and commercial property owners with unique issues or problems requiring specialized skills and expertise. Mr. Ryder has been a lecturer at numerous real estate seminars on commercial leasing and construction lending.
Before joining Garrett DeFrenza Stiepel Ryder LLP, Mr. Ryder was a partner with Pinto & Dubia, LLP in Irvine.
Representative Transactions
Serving as California real estate counsel for the acquisition of seventy-two quick lube service stations throughout California
Representation of a real estate developer in a joint venture for the construction of two industrial buildings totaling approximately 400,000 sq. ft. in Los Angeles County, California
Representation of a Mexican-based developer in a master joint venture and development management agreements for the development of two separate residential/commercial projects in Monterrey, Mexico
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease with a Fortune 100 company for an approximately 550,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art distribution facility in Southern California, and in the subsequent sale of such facility
Representation of a California developer in a built-to-suit lease and option to purchase with a regional grocery company for a 375,000 sq. ft. refrigerated/freezer warehouse facility in Southern California
Education
J.D., New York University School of Law, 1982
B.A., University of Notre Dame (with high honors), 1979
Affiliations
State Bar of California (Real Property Law section)
California Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Mr. Ryder is a former member of the Board of Directors and President of Friends in Service to Humanity, Harbor Area ("FISH"), an Orange County charity that strove to prevent homelessness and provide meal assistance to low income, elderly and home-bound individuals.
Mr. Ryder is a current member of the Board of Directors of Global Grins, a locally-based international charity dedicated to raising awareness of the serious health issues connected with oral hygiene and to supplying toothbrushes to individuals around the world.
Acknowledgments
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2006
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
New York University School of Law J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Henry R. Stiepel represents owners, investors, asset managers, and corporate users in industrial and commercial real property sales, acquisitions, financing, development, and leasing. Mr. Stiepel has more than 28 years of extensive experience in actively negotiating the acquisition, disposition, financing and leasing of office, industrial, R&D and retail projects.
Mr. Stiepel's experience includes the negotiation preparation and review of purchase contracts, leases, ground leases, construction documents, financing documents, easement agreements, management contracts, agreements with counties and municipalities and related development agreements.
Since 2005, Mr. Stiepel has been named one of "The Best Lawyers in America", Real Estate Law. He has also received an A-V Peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest legal ability rating available. Mr. Stiepel has served on the Board of Directors of the U.C. Irvine Athletic Association and on the U.C. Irvine Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and the Executive Board of the Orange County Council, Boy Scouts of America.
Recent Representative Transactions
Representation of landlord in negotiation of 108,000 combined square foot office and warehouse mixed use lease with international electronics manufacturer.
Representation of portfolio owner of commercial, industrial and retail projects in $20 million of multi-state refinancings.
Representation of landlord in connection with 86,000 commercial/industrial lease to aerospace industry manufacturer.
Representation of joint venture in connection with approximately $70 million of acquisitions of agricultural and dairy properties in California and Arizona.
Representation of developer in procurement of development rights for 500,000 square foot commercial and retail development, and subsequent parcelization and sale.
Representation of owner in connection with development agreement and related easement and municipal agreements for construction of 600,000 square foot office project.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law Center (Editor, Law Review), 1981
B.A., University of California at Irvine (cum laude), 1978
Affiliations
State Bar of California
California Bar Association (Real Property Law Section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2009
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law Center
J.D.,
Practice Specialties
Purchase and Sale Transactions
Commercial Leasing
Real Estate Financing
Development Projects
Biography
Henry R. Stiepel represents owners, investors, asset managers, and corporate users in industrial and commercial real property sales, acquisitions, financing, development, and leasing. Mr. Stiepel has more than 28 years of extensive experience in actively negotiating the acquisition, disposition, financing and leasing of office, industrial, R&D and retail projects.
Mr. Stiepel's experience includes the negotiation preparation and review of purchase contracts, leases, ground leases, construction documents, financing documents, easement agreements, management contracts, agreements with counties and municipalities and related development agreements.
Since 2005, Mr. Stiepel has been named one of "The Best Lawyers in America", Real Estate Law. He has also received an A-V Peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest legal ability rating available. Mr. Stiepel has served on the Board of Directors of the U.C. Irvine Athletic Association and on the U.C. Irvine Dean's Advisory Council for the School of the Arts, and the Executive Board of the Orange County Council, Boy Scouts of America.
Recent Representative Transactions
Representation of landlord in negotiation of 108,000 combined square foot office and warehouse mixed use lease with international electronics manufacturer.
Representation of portfolio owner of commercial, industrial and retail projects in $20 million of multi-state refinancings.
Representation of landlord in connection with 86,000 commercial/industrial lease to aerospace industry manufacturer.
Representation of joint venture in connection with approximately $70 million of acquisitions of agricultural and dairy properties in California and Arizona.
Representation of developer in procurement of development rights for 500,000 square foot commercial and retail development, and subsequent parcelization and sale.
Representation of owner in connection with development agreement and related easement and municipal agreements for construction of 600,000 square foot office project.
Education
J.D., University of Southern California Law Center (Editor, Law Review), 1981
B.A., University of California at Irvine (cum laude), 1978
Affiliations
State Bar of California
California Bar Association (Real Property Law Section)
Orange County Bar Association (Real Property Law section)
Acknowledgments
AVVO Top 100 Attorneys, Since 2011
Best Lawyers in America, Since 2006
Southern California Super Lawyers, Since 2009
10-Year AV Preeminent Rated (highest legal ability rating available from Martindale-Hubbell)
University of Southern California Law Center J.D.,
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