J. Steven Kirkham – Nashville, TN

Leading Authority in Commercial Real Estate

J. Steven ‘Steve’ Kirkham is a highly respected partner at Holland & Knight (formerly Waller), based in the firm’s Nashville office. With over three decades of experience, he has established himself as a powerhouse in the commercial real estate sector. Steve Kirkham is the attorney that major developers and national corporations call when they have high-stakes projects on the line. He co-heads the firm’s Retail and Hospitality Group, bringing a specialized focus to these dynamic industries. Known for his ‘unflappable’ demeanor and problem-solving skills, he manages complex transactions with a level of calm and precision that reassures clients even during the most stressful negotiations.

Expertise in Hospitality and Retail

Steve Kirkham’s practice covers the full spectrum of real estate law, with particular depth in:

• Hospitality Development: Advising hotel owners and operators on acquisitions, management agreements, and development projects across the country.
• Retail Centers: Representing developers of shopping centers and mixed-use projects, handling everything from land acquisition to tenant leasing.
• Multifamily Housing: Acting as the primary counsel for owners and developers of apartment complexes, navigating complex ownership structures and financing.
• Land Use and Zoning: Helping clients obtain the necessary entitlements and permits to bring their visions to life.
• Corporate Governance: Assisting C-suite executives with broader legal needs, including corporate finance and litigation management.

His work often involves supervising multi-disciplinary legal teams to ensure that every aspect of a deal is covered, from environmental due diligence to tax structuring. If you are looking to find a lawyer who can handle high-value portfolios and demanding development schedules, Steve Kirkham is the expert you need.

Building the Future of Nashville

As Nashville continues its rapid growth, Steve Kirkham plays a pivotal role in shaping the city’s skyline. His clients include some of the most active players in the real estate market. He understands that time is money in the development world, and he is dedicated to keeping projects on track and getting deals to the closing table. When you order a lawyer with his experience, you are investing in a smoother, more efficient transaction process. He is consistently recognized by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers, reflecting his status as a leader in the field.

Operating out of the Nashville City Center, Steve utilizes the resources of Holland & Knight’s global platform to serve clients not just in Tennessee, but throughout the United States. Whether you are a local developer or a national REIT, he offers the sophisticated legal guidance required to succeed in today’s competitive market. If you urgently need a lawyer to resolve a zoning dispute or finalize a purchase agreement, Steve Kirkham’s persistent yet pleasant style gets results.