Manatt's Keith M. Allen-Niesen, a partner in the firm's Real Estate and Land Use practice, has been elected a fellow of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers, one of the nation's most prestigious honorary organizations for practicing real estate attorneys. Allen-Niesen is one of only 40 lawyers from around the country elected this year to the organization.
ACREL fellows are recognized for their legal skill, experience and high standards of professional and ethical conduct. Admission is by invitation only after a rigorous evaluation process. The group devotes its efforts to improving the practice of real estate law and has taken positions regarding legislation, filed amicus curiae briefs in cases involving real estate issues, and supported affordable housing programs.
"The American College of Real Estate Lawyers has made an excellent choice selecting Keith," said Craig A. Moyer, chair of the firm's Land, Environment and Natural Resources division. "ACREL is known to be highly selective, and Keith's election is well deserved. He is a distinguished lawyer who has made significant contributions to the real estate, energy and legal industries."
Allen-Niesen is based in Manatt's Los Angeles office. He chairs the firm's Alternative Energy practice and was recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as one of the region's top real estate lawyers in 2013. For more than two decades, he has represented REITs, private and public companies, and domestic and foreign investors in real estate and land use deals.