Karen O’Malley, J.D. – Boston, MA

A Trusted Partner in Commercial Real Estate Law

Karen O’Malley is a distinguished director at the nationally recognized law firm Goulston & Storrs, based in the Boston office. She is a highly respected real estate attorney who co-chairs the firm’s dynamic Retail, Restaurant & Consumer industry group, bringing a wealth of experience and a business-focused perspective to every client engagement. Karen’s practice is centered on complex commercial real estate transactions, with a particular emphasis on sophisticated leasing arrangements nationwide. She represents a diverse clientele, including some of the country’s most prominent institutional investors, property owners, real estate developers, and major national and international tenants. Her expertise spans various sectors, including office, retail, life sciences, and industrial properties, making her a versatile and sought-after legal advisor. 🤝

Karen is renowned for her ability to navigate the intricate details of high-stakes negotiations, providing not just legal counsel but strategic business advice that aligns with her clients’ long-term objectives. Whether structuring a complex headquarters lease for a Fortune 500 company, managing the leasing strategy for a large-scale mixed-use development, or guiding a national retailer’s expansion, her approach is always collaborative and results-oriented. Her commitment extends beyond client work; as co-chair of the firm’s Pro Bono Committee, she is deeply involved in community-focused projects, including providing legal support for affordable housing developments.

Specialized Practice Areas

Karen’s expertise is both deep and broad, allowing her to provide comprehensive support across the full spectrum of real estate law. Her primary areas of focus include:

• Commercial Real Estate Lawyers: Offering end-to-end legal services for all types of commercial property transactions, from acquisitions and dispositions to development and financing.
• Retail, Office, and Industrial Leasing: Expertly representing both landlords and tenants in negotiating complex lease agreements for retail centers, office towers, mixed-use projects, and industrial facilities.
• Life Sciences & Technology Leasing: Advising on the unique legal requirements of leasing for laboratory, R&D, and technology-focused spaces.
• Landlord and Tenant Representation: Providing strategic counsel to both property owners and tenants to protect their interests and achieve favorable leasing terms.
• Retail, Restaurant & Consumer Sector: Co-leading a specialized group dedicated to the unique needs of clients in the retail and consumer goods industries.

A Legacy of Excellence and Leadership

Karen O’Malley’s commitment to her clients and her profession has been consistently recognized by leading legal publications and organizations. Her long list of accolades includes being named a ‘Top Woman of Law’ by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly for her role as a trailblazer and mentor. She is consistently listed in The Best Lawyers in America® for her work in Real Estate Law and is highly ranked by Chambers USA. Furthermore, her repeated inclusion on the Super Lawyers list underscores her reputation as a top-tier attorney in her field. These honors reflect her dedication to delivering exceptional results and providing the practical, business-savvy legal advice that her clients depend on. ⚖️