Rick Orourke

Background

About Rick Orourke

In 1916, New York City adopted the first zoning guidelines. Since then, virtually all states, cities, municipalities and towns have developed rules which regulate what types of corporations, businesses and housing, can and cannot be built – also known as” land use”, or what kind of companies can and cannot operate in certain locations – known as “zoning.” For over 35 years, I have been helping my clients navigate the very complicated Land Use and Zoning rules in New York State. My experience has included a wide spectrum of cases and clients, ranging from a billion dollar electrical energy manufacturing facility which required all regulatory approvals for construction and operation, to approvals for retail centers and residential subdivisions. I have zealously sought and defended in court land use approvals on behalf of Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, and Mom and Pop land owners. As an advocate, I advise clients based upon the knowledge, experience and extensive network that I have developed over the years. I approach all of my cases with an understanding that clients want results and representation that will assist them in achieving their goals to open new businesses, build new buildings and facilities. Besides serving as General or Special Counsel to property owners and municipalities in New York State, matters I handle include • prosecuting and defending proceedings commenced that challenge land use, zoning determinations • representing clients before Local, State and Federal Agencies • serving as trial and appellate counsel in State and Federal Courts • due diligence and regulatory investigations pre-acquisition of land & buildings • counsel as to municipalities and their receptivity toward development and particular land uses • serving as Special Counsel to AmLaw 200 firms seeking assistance on complex land use litigations and appeals