Paul Hastings, a leading international law firm, made headlines in June 2025 with the strategic expansion of its real estate and land use team in Los Angeles. The firm welcomed five high-profile partners from Latham & Watkins, including DJ Moore, Beth Gordie, Winston Stromberg, Benjamin Hanelin, and Lauren Paull. This expansion is designed to strengthen Paul Hastings’ ability to handle complex real estate transactions and land use matters, which are increasingly critical in a rapidly changing market.
The Significance of the Move
The addition of such a high-caliber team underscores Paul Hastings’ commitment to expanding its presence in Los Angeles, one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world. The firm has long been known for its expertise in handling major corporate transactions, but with the recent hiring of these top-tier professionals, it aims to further cement its position as a leader in the real estate sector as well.
Real estate and land use issues have become increasingly important in the Los Angeles market as demand for both residential and commercial properties grows. Rising property values, stricter zoning laws, and new development projects have made real estate transactions more complex, requiring a higher level of legal expertise. In this environment, having a team with deep knowledge of land use, development, and environmental regulations is crucial for ensuring that clients can navigate the intricacies of the market.
Paul Hastings’ Strategy in Los Angeles
Paul Hastings’ decision to expand its real estate team in Los Angeles is a direct response to the growing demand for high-level legal services in this field. The Los Angeles real estate market is known for its dynamism, with new developments, large-scale construction projects, and regulatory changes frequently impacting both residential and commercial property transactions.
By hiring the Latham & Watkins team, Paul Hastings is able to provide clients with a broader range of services, including handling complex zoning and land use matters, negotiating and structuring real estate transactions, and navigating the complexities of environmental regulations. The firm is also positioning itself to support clients involved in real estate investments, acquisitions, and developments, all of which are key components of Los Angeles’ vibrant property market.
The Growing Demand for Real Estate Expertise
The Los Angeles real estate market has seen significant growth over the past decade, driven by factors such as rising property values, an influx of international investment, and a booming tech sector. As more companies look to expand into the city, the demand for real estate services has increased accordingly.
In particular, the increasing interest in mixed-use developments, where residential, retail, and office spaces are integrated into a single development, has created a need for specialized legal expertise. Developers and investors are seeking legal counsel to navigate the complexities of these large-scale projects, which often require working with multiple stakeholders, including local government agencies, neighborhood associations, and environmental groups.
Paul Hastings’ Commitment to Diversity and Innovation
In addition to expanding its real estate team, Paul Hastings is also committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within its practice. The firm has been recognized for its efforts to create an inclusive work environment, where employees from diverse backgrounds can thrive. This commitment is particularly important in the real estate industry, where diversity can bring unique perspectives and drive innovative solutions to complex legal challenges.
Paul Hastings has also embraced technology to enhance its services. The firm is increasingly using legal tech tools to streamline real estate transactions, improve efficiency, and provide clients with more effective solutions. As the real estate market in Los Angeles becomes more competitive and complex, law firms like Paul Hastings are leveraging technology and top-tier talent to stay ahead of the curve.
The Future of Real Estate Law in Los Angeles
As the Los Angeles real estate market continues to evolve, the demand for expert legal services will only increase. With the expansion of its real estate team, Paul Hastings is positioning itself to remain a key player in this dynamic market, helping clients navigate the legal complexities of property development, land use, and environmental regulations.
The firm’s expansion is also a reflection of the broader trend in Los Angeles, where law firms are investing in specialized teams to meet the growing needs of businesses involved in real estate. With the increasing demand for high-quality legal counsel, Paul Hastings’ new team is well-equipped to help clients successfully navigate the challenges of one of the most vibrant and competitive real estate markets in the country.
