Desmond D. Connall, Jr., an attorney known for his work in real estate leasing and development, has joined Ballard Spahr as a real estate partner in Washington, D.C., firm Chair Mark Stewart announced today.
Mr. Connall brings more than 30 years of experience in commercial real estate transactions to the firm’s Real Estate Department. He represents real estate developers, property owners, REITs, and tenants nationwide. Mr. Connall has advised on more than 1,000 leases for office and retail space and has participated in an impressive scope of joint venture development transactions. He joins the firm from the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore offices of Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, LLP, where he was a partner.
“We have one of the premier real estate development practices in the country and we have long wanted to deepen its reach in the Washington metro area,” Mr. Stewart said. “Des is well known in Washington and now will have Ballard’s considerable resources behind him as he services clients in the very active D.C., Virginia, and Maryland market.”
With more than 100 attorneys in key eastern and western U.S. markets, the Real Estate Department at Ballard Spahr counsels clients in acquisition, financing, leasing, sale, and restructuring transactions. Mr. Connall is a member of the firm’s Real Estate Leasing, Real Estate Development, and REITs practice groups.
Michael Sklaroff, Chair of the firm’s Real Estate Department, said, “Des strengthens our core development practice in the Mid-Atlantic region, and brings new energy and relationships to the mix. He is a terrific addition.”
The Washington, D.C., real estate market has remained active even through the economic downturn. Ballard Spahr’s office there is one of the firm’s largest and is a recognized leader in energy and project finance, public finance, real estate, mortgage banking, and tax.
“Ballard Spahr has national scope, regional market knowledge, and a truly impressive real estate department,” Mr. Connall said. “The firm is growing its base in the Washington, D.C., metro area, and I look forward to being a part of that team.”
