One of the region's top construction and real estate development lawyers, Mr. Burke has built a substantial trial and appellate practice, and is noted for numerous cases relating to condominium and other multi-use development.
Mr. Burke brings a client-oriented perspective to his practice. He shares his insight on topical real estate and development issues facing condominium and homeowners associations and their members through his popular blog, www.marylandcondolaw.com.
He frequently represents condominium and homeowner associations and property managers in connection with building-related issues, particularly involving code compliance, deviations from industry standards, structural integrity, and water intrusion. He works with skilled engineering and architectural consultants in the identification of building defects, the specification of proper repairs, the pursuit and resolution of claims relating to improper construction, the implementation of repairs, and the remediation of mold and environmental contamination. He also represents developers, architects, builders, contractors, manufacturers, and insurers in resolving construction related claims, and developing solutions to building issues.
Most recently, Mr. Burke secured judicial confirmation from the Circuit Court for Baltimore City of a significant arbitration award on behalf of a condo unit owner. The unit owner had suffered substantial damages stemming from water infiltration into a penthouse condominium unit and was able to obtain both a monetary damages award and an order of specific performance for repairs to the building’s roof system and exterior facade. The award is believed to be Maryland's largest judgment against a condo board for failure to maintain, repair and replace the common elements of a condominium building.
Mr. Burke is a certified mediator and experienced arbitrator who works with clients to handle disputes through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) procedures. In addition, he represents clients in all facets of real estate development and operation, including land acquisition, planning and zoning, creation of condominium regimes and homeowner associations, development of contact documents, design and construction, sales, leasing, maintenance, and repairs. He also negotiates and prepares agreements relating to real estate transactions, corporate activities and employment matters.
Active in professional, community and civic affairs, Mr. Burke has taken a leading role in several prominent organizations dedicated to the Baltimore area’s economic growth. In addition to writing an opinion/commentary column for The Baltimore Sun, he is also a frequent lecturer on real estate and construction issues and civil practice and procedure.