EXPERIENCE

Mr. Contis is a shareholder in the firm’s Business Practice Group, and Real Estate Practice Group. Mr. Contis concentrates his practice in the areas of, real estate acquisition and development, construction, mortgage and end-loan lending, participation loans, commercial and industrial leasing for landlords and tenants (including master leases, ground leases and subleases) and business planning.

Mr. Contis regularly works with lenders, owners and court appointed receivers in the sale of distressed office, commercial and industrial properties and manufactured home communities. He represented LA Fitness International and negotiated leases on its behalf for the establishment of its first six fitness facilities in Southeastern Michigan.

Mr. Contis earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from the University of Pittsburgh in 1982 and received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Detroit in 1985. While at the University of Detroit, Mr. Contis participated in several local and national Moot Court competitions and was selected for membership to the Order of Barristers.

His publications include: Tax Aspects of Divorce in Michigan, Michigan Tax Law Journal, 1984; Bring a Weapon to School, Get Expelled 370 Laches 8, Nov. 1996; and Year End Planning Considerations for 1031 Exchanges, Bar Briefs, December 2000.

Mr. Contis has an “AV” Peer Review rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest ranking by peers for general ethical standards and legal ability.