Bieri and Ames – Detroit, MI

The Gold Standard in Retail Real Estate Law

Bieri and Ames is a premier boutique law firm located in Detroit, Michigan, specializing exclusively in retail real estate and tenant law. With over 90 years of combined legal experience, the firm has established itself as the go-to counsel for retailers, restaurants, and tenants nationwide. Located at 660 Woodward Ave, in the historic First National Building, the firm sits at the epicenter of Detroit’s commercial resurgence. Partners James Bieri and Stanley Ames are not just attorneys; they are industry veterans who understand the business of retail as well as the law. They have negotiated leases for some of the world’s most recognizable brands, from luxury fashion houses to national food chains. The firm’s philosophy is simple: landlords hire the best lawyers to protect their interests, so tenants should too. Bieri and Ames levels the playing field, ensuring that tenants enter into leases that are fair, flexible, and conducive to long-term success. Their expertise covers every type of retail environment, including regional malls, lifestyle centers, outlet malls, and high-street locations.

Specialized Tenant Representation

The firm’s singular focus on retail real estate allows them to offer a depth of knowledge that general practice firms cannot match. They provide a full suite of legal services tailored to the needs of commercial tenants.

• Lease Negotiation: Expertly drafting and negotiating commercial leases to minimize risk and maximize tenant protections.
• Lease Renewals and Restructuring: Advising clients on lease extensions and renegotiating terms to reflect changing market conditions.
• Acquisition and Disposition: assisting retailers in expanding their footprint or exiting underperforming locations efficiently.
• Lease Analysis: Conducting thorough reviews of existing lease portfolios to identify cost-saving opportunities and compliance issues.
• Construction Disputes: Resolving conflicts related to tenant build-outs, improvements, and delivery conditions.

Trusted by Global Brands

The client roster of Bieri and Ames reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of the retail world, including names like Coach, Kate Spade, The Body Shop, and Auntie Anne’s. This level of trust is earned through decades of delivering results. James Bieri is a Senior Certified Leasing Specialist with the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) and a frequent speaker at industry events. Stanley Ames brings a wealth of experience as former General Counsel for a major franchise chain. Together, they offer a unique blend of legal acumen and practical business strategy. They understand that a lease is more than a contract; it is the foundation of a business’s profitability. The firm utilizes state-of-the-art technology to manage lease data and keep clients ahead of critical dates and obligations. Whether you are a local startup opening your first boutique or a multinational corporation rolling out 50 new stores, Bieri and Ames provides the sophisticated counsel you need to succeed in the competitive retail landscape.

Anchored in Detroit

Operating from Suite 1500 of the First National Building, the firm is proud to be part of Detroit’s revitalization. Their office overlooks Campus Martius Park, placing them in the center of the city’s business and cultural district. This location facilitates close relationships with developers, brokers, and other key players in the real estate industry. If you are looking for a law firm that understands retail inside and out, look no further than Bieri and Ames. Contact them today to ensure your real estate strategy is built on a solid legal foundation. 🛍️