News & Resources

Friedlander Misler, PLLC is pleased to announce that, based on peer review and practice excellence, Principal and Managing Member David M. Astrove and Principal Deborah G. Astrove have been recognized in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for Real Estate Law.  Both attorneys were also included in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 editions.  Attorneys included in the Best Lawyers® lists are peer-reviewed based on professional capabilities and undergo an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and good standing.   Since it was first published in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Attorneys are not required nor allowed to pay a fee to be listed; therefore, inclusion is considered a singular honor.  Find more information about Best Lawyers methodology here. 

Friedlander Misler, PLLC is pleased to announce that five firm attorneys were named to the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Global Real Estate Lawyers list:  Principal and Managing Member David M. Astrove  Principal Deborah G. Astrove  Principal Jennifer W. Jette  Principal Rebecca Monzi  Principal Amy C. Serafino  This is the 3rd edition of this guide to advisors who specialize in a vast range of skills, including development, finance, leasing, litigation, and REIT structuring. This guide honors advisors who demonstrate excellence across development, finance, leasing, litigation, and REIT structuring, and our team’s inclusion reflects their expertise, dedication to clients, and the breadth of their work in Washington, D.C. and beyond.  Lawdragon, founded in 2005, publishes news and feature pieces, including a range of leading lawyers guides across various practice areas. Lawdragon’s refined selection process is the product of more than 30 years of researching and reporting on the legal profession. See additional details of Lawdragon’s guide methodology here. 

It’s no surprise to most people that many professions in the modern world require a government license to operate lawfully, and the categories of licenses can cover a shocking number of job categories. Here’s what contractors, developers, and licensed trades need to know.  Why Licensing Matters for D.C. Contractors  The District of Columbia is no different than most other jurisdictions. Licensed professionals such as engineers, plumbers, sports agents, private detectives, HVAC mechanics, and funeral directors could have multiple levels of licensure for a practitioner to achieve.   But, if you’re running a business, what does it really take to be completely licensed? This often means that you need a license for your business to perform a specific trade. Your business may need to have a licensed individual with a master license, and the rest of your employees may need licenses of their own. Any shortcoming in your licensure could jeopardize your business’s ability to collect its fees.   Which Trades […]

Friedlander Misler, PLLC is pleased to announce that Li Ann Butterfield has been selected by Lawdragon for inclusion in their 2026 Next Generation Awards.   Last year, Li Ann was named to the 2025 Connect CRE Next Gen list in the Washington DC & Mid-Atlantic region.  Li Ann’s practice includes representing lenders in loan drafting and modifications, including acquisition and construction loans, for a variety of property types, such as multifamily dwellings, storage units, and commercial retail buildings. She also provides guidance on commercial lease agreements, including new leases and lease amendments, for retail stores, industrial warehouse spaces, and other property types throughout the U.S. Additionally, Li Ann has experience with commercial real estate acquisitions and dispositions, including land sales.  This is the fourth edition of the Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation guide. The lawyers included have made their mark in fewer than 15 years of practice.  View the full list of honorees here. 

We are proud to announce that Friedlander Misler, PLLC has been recognized by Chambers and Partners in the 2026 edition of Chambers USA for excellence in Washington, D.C.: Real Estate (Band 4). This is the firm’s inaugural ranking in Chambers.  Chambers rankings are based on extensive independent research and feedback from clients and industry peers, recognizing firms that demonstrate outstanding legal work, client service, and market leadership.  This accolade reflects the dedication of our Real Estate team and the trust our clients place in us to guide complex transactions, developments, financing matters, leasing, and strategic real estate initiatives across the Washington, D.C. region and nationally.  “We are honored to be recognized by Chambers,” said Firm Principal and Managing Member David M. Astrove. “This achievement is a testament to our clients, our relationships, and the collaborative approach our team brings to every matter.”  Clients consistently commend Friedlander Misler’s combination of legal acumen and practical business insight. One client noted: “They have great legal knowledge […]