Melissa Tapanes Llahues has made her mark not only in the legal profession but also in the greater Miami community.  She became a named partner at Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin and Tapanes, PLLC in 2020.

Melissa represents the interests of landowners, institutional clients, and developers seeking real estate licensing and regulatory approvals from governmental boards and agencies at the local, state and federal levels. She specializes in managing complex and politically sensitive legislative and quasi-judicial matters from initial due diligence to permitting, including applications and issues related to developments of regional impact, amendments to local government comprehensive plans, vested rights, public private partnerships, zoning, platting, and site planning, as well as development agreements, enforcement, eminent domain, historic preservation, and archaeological resources.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes from your competitors?

Our firm is Miami’s go-to boutique firm for institutions, developers, investors and property owners. For almost three decades, BRFLT has led the industry in crafting innovative and customized solutions to the most challenging cases that have fueled Miami’s phenomenal growth. Our attorneys are entrepreneurial, creative problem solvers who are passionate about building community through our work.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

One of the standout trends in 2024 has been the significant growth in mixed-use transit-oriented developments. We're seeing more projects that blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in close proximity to transit, which cater to the evolving needs of residents and businesses. This trend has spread from the urban core of Miami and Miami Beach to the Miami-Dade County RTZs and cities like Hialeah, Doral and Homestead.  With mounting interest in climate change, local governments and developers have embraced sustainable building practices, with a stronger focus on eco-friendly design, energy efficiency, and climate resilience—especially considering the ongoing challenges related to sea-level rise.

The demand for high-end residential properties has remained strong, and the luxury market is continuing to perform exceptionally well. At the same time, there's been notable interest in more affordable housing projects, which has led to collaborations between private developers and local governments to address the growing need for accessible housing options.

Our firm has been at the forefront of implementing Florida’s groundbreaking Live Local Act, which expands affordable housing through incentives like increased height, density, and ad valorem tax benefits. We guide developers in leveraging these provisions to streamline project approvals and create economically viable mixed-use and multi-family housing in areas previously restricted for such uses. By balancing client goals with municipal regulations, we’ve successfully delivered projects like the 1,300-unit Ultimate Equity in Wynwood, the 84-unit Tropic Courts in Allapattah, and the 22-story Clara Wynwood with 147 income-restricted units. Our expertise ensures clients maximize the Act’s potential while advancing solutions to Florida’s affordable housing crisis.

What's the main change you've made in the firm that will benefit clients?

A key change has been fostering a culture of mentorship and promotion within the firm, particularly focusing on empowering associates to foster leadership skills through community activism and pro bono work. This initiative has brought fresh perspectives, nurtured community stakeholder bonds, and strengthened the firm's capacity to address complex client challenges with creativity and innovation.

What do you think is the most important factor in building long-term client relationships in today’s legal market?

Building long-term relationships requires trust, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of each client’s needs and industry landscape. Personalized service, technical prowess, and consistently delivering results that align with clients' strategic goals are essential. By advocating for clients with integrity and maintaining open communication, the firm has established a reputation for excellence, reliability and excellence that keeps clients returning for partnership and guidance.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

Our firm’s expertise in managing complex permitting and zoning issues has proven invaluable in unlocking development opportunities and value for our clients. For instance, we represent JDS Development Group in the redevelopment of 3.4 acres in West Brickell, known as Block 85, as part of a public-private partnership with the City of Miami. This collaboration led to the approval of a Public Benefit Agreement for the transformative '1 Southside Park' project.

This project includes acquisition of City-owned land, environmental mitigation, a new state-of-the-art Fire Station No. 4, public parking, and a revitalized urban municipal park. The project integrates residential, hotel, office, and wellness spaces with public amenities connected to the Underline and Brickell Metrorail Station.

Despite legal and political challenges, our firm secured approvals for key elements of the project and continues to work with the City on permitting and construction logistics. This effort not only added significant value to the client’s business but also contributed to the broader community through enhanced infrastructure and public spaces.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms - where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients today absolutely value stability combined with strategic vision. For almost three decades, Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes has cemented its reputation as a premier firm for land use, zoning, and environmental law. The firm will continue expanding its team of diverse, creative and highly skilled professionals while leveraging its deep understanding of legislative and regulatory frameworks to help clients navigate evolving challenges. This entrepreneurial commitment to excellence and innovation ensures the firm remains a trusted partner for its clients' long-term success.