Colleen Gillis
Cooley LLPCooley LLP fields a strong real estate practice capable of covering all aspects of land use and zoning law, including entitlement and permitting processes as well as development and operation. The real estate department is headed by lease transactions and commercial property expert John Lavoie in the Reston office, while Colleen Gillis and Mark Looney lead the dedicated land use and zoning practice. Gillis uses her vast experience as a transactional real estate lawyer to assist clients with all areas of entitlement in relation to mixed-use, residential or data center projects and also advises on the acquisition, financing and divestment aspects of real estate developments. Looney represents property owners and developers in all aspects of the land planning, zoning and (re-)development process, advising on development agreements and acquisitions in addition to handling land use litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Colleen Gillis and her team are the best land use/zoning group in our region. Their knowledge of the ordinances and procedures are exemplary as well as their relationships with the elected officials, planning commissioners, and planning staff. Their positive relationships help break down barriers to success.'
- 'Colleen Gillis has the proven ability to think on her feet and respond quickly to challenges presented by staff and public opponents.'
- 'They are kind, responsive, and always speak well of others. It is uplifting to work with them.'
- 'Mark Looney has been reliable during difficult times. Even when the case dragged on and became more trouble than it was worth to him, he remained patient and willing to help.'
- 'Their knowledge of the land use legislative process is unparalleled.'
- 'Depth of talent. Good communication amongst the team where each person is knowledgeable of your matters and all efforts and guidance are aligned.'
- 'Mark Looney is experienced, insightful, and influential. His communications are logical, clear, and concise. His likable demeanor and brilliant, yet understated, advocacy builds consensus and support. He is a great strategist and can devise a path forward. He meets all commitments and is available to his clients.'
Key clients
- The Peterson Companies
- Boston Properties
- Compass Datacenters, LLC
- Pulte Home Company, LLC
- Brookfield Properties
- Kite Realty
- Brambleton Group
- IDI Group Companies
- EYA, LLC
- Westbrook Partners
- Toll Brothers
- Parsons Business Park LLC
- PRP Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advised The Peterson Companies on its Loudoun County residential, office, entertainment and retail projects.
- Advised Boston Properties on development applications to expand the existing Reston Next development adjacent to the Reston Town Center Metrorail station.
- Advised Compass Datacenters, LLC in connection with zoning approvals for data center projects in Northern Virginia.
Lawyers
Leading lawyers
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Mark Looney
Cooley LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
John Lavoie