Each year, PTK magazine — a publication of AZ Big Media — showcases the top people and projects to know in Arizona’s commercial real estate sector. Pulling from a competitive pool of nominations and the editorial board’s knowledge of the industry, this annual edition highlights 50 meaningful projects across all product types and influential professionals in 23 different categories. Over the coming days, meet the individuals making an outsized impact on the built environment across Arizona. The digital sponsor of PTK magazine is Quarles. Here are the real estate attorneys to know in 2026:
DEEPER DIVE: Read the latest issue of PTK magazine
Benjamin Gottlieb
Founding attorney
Background: An experienced attorney who has handled hundreds of real estate, business and commercial cases, Gottlieb’s career has been highlighted by successful outcomes in a wide range of commercial litigation and real estate matters. He has handled jury trials and cases on appeal, with success.
Source of pride: “Being the founder of a successful and growing real estate law firm comprised of incredible people and legal talent.”
Key to success: “Treat people with respect. Work hard and always strive for self-improvement. Go outside of your comfort zone and embrace and lean into discomfort when necessary — it’s often the key to growth and evolution.”
Surprising fact: “At 8th grade basketball tryouts, the coach apparently saw me dive into the bleachers to save a ball from going out of bounds on a play. I had very little basketball talent and was short for my grade, but he apparently was impressed with my hustle and work ethic, and I got selected to play on the A team that year.”
Chris Colyer
Partner
Background: As co-chair of Snell & Wilmer’s Environmental & Natural Resources Practice Group, Colyer utilizes his unique combined environmental, real estate and land use, and administrative law experience to assist clients with projects in Arizona and the Western U.S. He guides clients through all aspects of the municipal entitlement process, including representing clients before city and town councils, county supervisor boards, planning commissions and zoning hearing officers, and shepherding clients through all site planning, design review, land division, permitting and public outreach requirements.
Source of pride: “Successfully representing a client in its $11 billion financing of the SunZia wind energy and transmission line project.”
Surprising fact: “Despite my slim 5’8” frame, my first job was as a bouncer.”
David Lansky
Member
Background: A cornerstone in Arizona’s real estate legal community for nearly four decades, Lansky provides seasoned counsel to buyers, sellers, developers, investors and lenders in a wide array of commercial real estate transactions. His work ensures regulatory compliance, mitigates risk, and produces successful outcomes in residential and commercial markets. Clients depend on Lansky’s experience, keen market insight and collaborative approach to navigate both routine and high-stakes real estate matters with confidence.
Source of pride: Lansky has successfully negotiated leases for several million square feet of retail space, working across from local boutiques, junior anchors, national chains and major anchor tenants. Recently, he advised Vestar in the development of Verrado Marketplace, a $275 million retail destination in Buckeye and a $2 billion mixed-use project in Phoenix.
Surprising fact: After taking a few decades off, Lansky picked up slalom water skiing again in the last couple of years.
Jim Bond
Director
Background: Bond guides clients through complex real estate transactions — from office purchases and golf course sales to restaurant leases — with a blend of creativity, clear communication and responsiveness.
Source of pride: “Becoming a go-to attorney for commercial real estate development on Native American land. I’ve had the privilege of working on many of the most significant tribal land projects in Arizona, with over $1 billion in transactions involving thousands of acres — much of it in the heart of Scottsdale. These deals are among the most complex in the state, requiring negotiation with tribal governments, structuring long-term ground leases and navigating federal approvals through the Bureau of Indian Affairs. I frequently work with lenders, developers, and other parties new to these transactions, helping bridge knowledge gaps and keep deals on track.”
Favorite project: “The Talking Stick area within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community stands out as my favorite. It’s a prime example of how thoughtful, strategic development on tribal land can generate long-term value for the community and the region. The area now includes major destinations like Talking Stick Resort, Salt River Fields, Topgolf, Great Wolf Lodge and a growing mix of entertainment, retail and hospitality assets. What makes this project remarkable is not just the scale or visibility — it’s the complexity behind it. Developing on tribal land involves unique legal, cultural and governmental dynamics, including ground leasing, federal oversight through the Bureau of Indian Affairs and close coordination with tribal leadership. The success of this corridor has set the standard for similar projects across Arizona and beyond.”
Patrick MacQueen
Founding attorney
Background: Over the past two decades, MacQueen has been involved with commercial real estate deals in every state but South Carolina. He also provides legal education to real estate agents and brokerages, management companies and investors.
Key to success: “Surrounding myself with good people. I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues, mentors, and team members who challenge me, support me, and share the same commitment to excellence.”
Source of pride: “Building a law practice that clients describe as both approachable and highly effective. It reminds me that success isn’t just about winning cases or closing a big transaction — it’s about being straightforward and solving real legal issues. “
Surprising fact: “When I’m not practicing law, you’ll usually find me on a golf course or out fishing. Golf keeps me competitive and focused, while fishing gives me the patience — and humility — that every lawyer and business owner needs. Both are my way of recharging and staying grounded outside the office.”
