Don Hammett, co-chair of Alston & Bird’s REITs team, sat down for a video interview during Nareit’s REITworld: 2024 Annual Conference in Las Vegas on Nov. 18-21.
He reflected on the firm’s strategic developments and future priorities and described the creation of a new investment funds practice group that integrated the REITs team, enhancing collaboration and client service. "It’s created tremendous energies...a great opportunity for practitioners to bounce ideas off each other," Hammett noted.
Hammett also shared that the firm is concentrating on Dallas, where he will spearhead efforts to strengthen its presence. This decision aligns with client needs and complements a recent office opening in Chicago.
Discussing his specialization, Hammett emphasized his focus on tax and structural issues within the REITs sector, including REIT qualification and asset transaction planning.
"I help them in terms of REIT opinions, requalification analysis, [and] planning around asset acquisitions and dispositions," he explained.
Looking ahead to 2025, Hammett highlighted the firm’s ongoing commitment to delivering top-tier legal services while expanding its team and service offerings. Actively recruiting top talent and enhancing capabilities in key markets remain central to the firm’s goals.