Morrison Foerster’s practice, co-led by Theodore Seltzer and the 'top tier' Masahiro Shiga, is part of the firm's pan-Asian network, exhibiting 'very deep' bench strength when advising domestic and overseas real estate companies. Junichi Kurokoshi advises real estate developers and operators. Advising on fund formation, project acquisition, and financings, Narutake Takasu focuses on sale and leasing transactions and investment in distressed debt. Joshua Isenberg 'works seamlessly' across different sector, advising on a variety of real estate transactions, including senior and mezzanine financings, as well as construction and development matters. Christopher Spalding, who specialises in non-recourse financings within the real estate sector, was promoted to partner in January 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Highly experienced, very deep bench, and able to tackle very challenging and complex situations with confidence and with a constant focus on client care.'
- 'Josh Isenberg is highly creative and able to work seamlessly across different sectors, asset classes and situations. Masahiro Shiga is top tier and absolutely essential for highly complex and theoretical risks. Chris Spalding is incredibly hard working and disciplined, a key person to drive the deal process forward.'
Key clients
- Asia Pacific Land (Japan) Limited
- Angelo, Gordon & Co.
- Credit Suisse
- Farallon Capital
- Bentall GreenOak Investment Management
- Savills Investment Management
- SEKISUI HOUSE, LTD.
- Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
- DAIWA HOUSE INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
- MORI TRUST CO., LTD
- GLP Pte. Ltd.
Work highlights
- Represented Sekisui House, Ltd. in its $514m acquisition of U.S. homebuilder Chesmar Homes, LLC., a developer of single-family homes in Texas.
- Represented Mori Trust in its acquisition of partial interest in a laboratory and office development project located in Boston, United States, through its subsidiary MORI America LLC.
- Represented Mori Trust in its c. $500m acquisition of an office building located in Washington, D.C., United States, through its subsidiary MORI America LLC.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Next Generation Partners: Bengoshi
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Theodore Seltzer, Masahiro Shiga