In-House Counsel

Company Description Barbat Holdings, LLC is a Michigan-based real estate investment and management company overseeing more than 750,000 square feet of property, including retail shopping centers, office space, medical facilities, and urban-style loft apartments and condominiums. The company is known for transforming distressed buildings, such as the historic Montgomery building in Ann Arbor, into vibrant mixed-use developments that blend residential loft living with retail space. Barbat Holdings also rehabilitates retail shopping centers throughout southeast Michigan, focusing on turnaround investment properties and new development. Guided by a commitment to client success and community impact, the team works to renovate properties, beautify cities, and deliver high-quality service to residents, tenants, and partners. Role Description The In-House Counsel will provide comprehensive legal support for a full-time, on-site role located in Metro Detroit, MI. This role includes reviewing, drafting, and negotiating commercial leases, purchase and sale agreements, vendor contracts, financing documents, and other real estate-related agreements. The In-House Counsel will advise on real estate transactions, zoning, land use, property management issues, and corporate governance matters, while helping manage risk and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Day-to-day responsibilities include working closely with leadership, property management, and development teams, coordinating with external counsel when needed, overseeing dispute resolution and litigation matters, and maintaining organized legal files, policies, and procedures. The role also involves supporting strategic initiatives, participating in due diligence for acquisitions and dispositions, and providing practical, business-oriented legal guidance to help drive successful projects and long-term growth. Qualifications Real estate and transactional law expertise, including experience with commercial leases, purchase and sale agreements, financing documents, and property management issues. Strong contract drafting, review, and negotiation skills for a variety of agreements with tenants, vendors, lenders, and partners. Knowledge of zoning, land use, development, and regulatory compliance in Michigan, with the ability to interpret and apply relevant statutes and ordinances. Experience managing disputes, coordinating with outside counsel, and handling litigation, mediation, or settlement negotiations related to real estate or business matters. Excellent analytical, research, and written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and sound judgment. Ability to work on-site, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, prioritize multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active license to practice law in Michigan (or eligibility for admission within a reasonable timeframe). Prior in-house or law firm experience in real estate, corporate, or commercial practice areas; experience with investment and development projects. #J-18808-Ljbffr