The Firm also has an established practice in the areas of common interest, condominium and planned developments, including preparation of subdivision and project governing documents, as well as commercial real estate development and land use. We provide representation to developers through all stages of project development, from land acquisition and entitlement through construction, marketing, sales and post sales issues. This area of practice is managed by attorney Thomas W. Isaac and Susie J. Martin, Certified Legal Assistant. In addition, the Firm has expertise in the area of Department of Real Estate subdivision processing. We have an excellent rapport and work closely with developers, engineers, title companies and single responsible parties for the purpose of interacting directly with the DRE.
The Firm's Litigation Department represents clients, including title insurance companies and their insured's, in matters involving escrow and title disputes, as well as title insurance coverage issues. We have considerable expertise in the area of real estate litigation, and have handled litigation matters involving purchase and sale disputes, leasehold disputes, lien priority, subordination, and financing issues.
Dietrich, Glasrud, Mallek & Aune represents property owners and historic preservation organizations in efforts to protect and designate historic resources in their communities. This area of practice is managed by attorney Bruce A. Owdom. The preservation of buildings, districts, and other properties of historic and architectural significance not only protects an important part of our national heritage, but also provides a tool for revitalization and economic growth in underutilized neighborhoods.
Historic preservation laws may have significant effects on the rights and responsibilities of property owners, buyers and developers. Such laws may restrict the alteration, decoration, and use of a project and may impose responsibilities related to maintenance of historic standards. Property owners must understand applicable laws and apply for necessary approvals and permits. Preservation laws can have a positive effect. Legal designation of a property as historic can produce economic benefits in the form of eligibility for grants, loans, or tax credits for the maintenance, repair or restoration of an historic property. Preserving and protecting an old building may be less expensive than building a new one and is more ecologically beneficial. Historic preservation may also increase the chances for commercial success by increasing tourism and creating a destination enterprise.
Significant federal historic preservation laws were passed with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NRPA) which established the National Register of Historic Places and procedures for the protection of properties of historic, cultural, architectural, engineering or archaeological interest. Many states and local governments have similar laws allowing designation of historic properties and laws that may restrict or control development, maintenance of or demolition of historic properties. State and local governments usually establish agencies, boards and other offices with responsibility for administrating historic preservation laws.
Dietrich, Glasrud, Mallek & Aune has represented property owners and preservation organizations in the protection of publicly owned and privately owned historic properties from alteration of the structure itself or neighboring contributing properties. We have also worked with developers in resolving historic preservation issues, dedication of façade easements, and conversion of historic properties from office and retail use to residential use.
The Litigation Department handles environmental litigation including representation of clients in federal cost recovery actions under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), common law abatement and damage actions for nuisance, trespass, and strict liability. The Litigation Department also represents property owners in applications for reimbursement from the California Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund.