With bankruptcy filings rising steadily in recent months and commercial real estate booming as businesses flock to Phoenix, Tempe-based Guidant Law Firm hired JoAnn Falgout and Eric Faas as senior attorneys to support these burgeoning practice areas.
Although Falgout’s deep experience in commercial and appellate law enables her to counsel clients on a variety of complex issues, including commercial and construction disputes, she focuses primarily on bankruptcy cases and appeals.
“Chapter 11 filings increased 500% year-over-year in September, and Chapter 13 filings nearly doubled year-over-year in October. At the same time, Guidant also handles more Subchapter V cases than any firm in Arizona, so JoAnn’s background in representing debtor and creditor clients in litigation is a tremendous asset,” said Lamar Hawkins, partner at Guidant. “Her negotiation skills help clients retain as many assets as possible, maximize recovery and find a clear path forward.”
Having led real estate brokerages and advisory firms in Arizona, California and Oregon, Faas helps businesses and individuals navigate complex land use, site selection, sales, permitting and leasing issues.
“Arizona’s business-friendly environment continues to attract companies looking for less regulation and lower taxes, and as a licensed broker, Eric has the comprehensive knowledge of all facets of real estate they need to secure and protect their largest — and often most valuable — assets,” said Gary Smith, partner at Guidant. “Likewise, his ability to negotiate hotly contested, previously denied or stalled zoning and development cases helps clients overcome difficult challenges.”