Wexler & Finch LLP, a national law firm, has announced a significant expansion of its South Florida operations with a new lease that increases its Miami office footprint by 30%. The move is a direct response to rising client demand and supports the firm's long-term growth strategy in the region.
The expansion involves leasing an additional 25,000 square feet of office space in the prestigious 830 Brickell tower, bringing the firm's total presence in the building to approximately 108,000 square feet. This move positions Wexler & Finch to hire dozens of new attorneys and support staff over the next two years.
Key Takeaways
- Wexler & Finch LLP is increasing its Miami office space by 30%, adding 25,000 square feet.
- The firm's total footprint at the 830 Brickell tower will now be approximately 108,000 square feet.
- The expansion is driven by strong demand in practice areas like real estate, corporate law, and international arbitration.
- The firm plans to significantly increase its headcount in Miami, hiring new attorneys and professional staff to support its growth.
Details of the Office Expansion
Wexler & Finch has finalized a lease agreement for an additional full floor at 830 Brickell, a premier office tower in Miami's financial district. The new space will be built out over the next several months, with the firm expecting to occupy it by the second quarter of next year.
This expansion comes just two years after the firm initially moved into the building. The decision to secure more space in the same location was strategic, allowing for seamless integration with its existing operations. The firm's leadership cited the building's modern amenities and central location as key factors in its decision.
A Commitment to a Modern Workspace
The design for the new floor will mirror the firm's commitment to a collaborative and technologically advanced work environment. Plans include a mix of private offices, open-plan collaborative zones, and state-of-the-art conference rooms equipped for global video conferencing.
"Our physical space is a reflection of our firm's modern approach to legal services. By expanding at 830 Brickell, we are investing not only in our growth but also in our people, providing them with the best possible environment to serve our clients," said Maria Castillo, Managing Partner of the Miami office.
According to a statement from the firm, the expansion underscores its confidence in the future of Miami as a global business hub.
Strategic Focus on South Florida's Economy
The decision to expand is directly tied to the robust economic growth seen across South Florida. The region has become a magnet for technology companies, financial services firms, and international investors, creating a surge in demand for sophisticated legal counsel.
Miami's Rise as a Business Hub
In recent years, Miami and the greater South Florida area have experienced an unprecedented influx of corporate relocations and wealth migration. This trend, often referred to as the "Wall Street South" movement, has transformed the city's economic landscape, boosting demand for professional services, including legal, accounting, and financial advisory firms.
Wexler & Finch has seen particularly strong growth in several key practice areas:
- Corporate Law: Assisting new and expanding businesses with mergers, acquisitions, and corporate governance.
- Real Estate: Handling complex commercial and luxury residential real estate transactions.
- International Arbitration: Leveraging Miami's position as a gateway to Latin America.
- Private Wealth Management: Serving the needs of high-net-worth individuals and families relocating to the state.
"South Florida is no longer just a regional market; it's a critical international crossroads for business and finance," Castillo explained. "Our expansion ensures we have the capacity and talent on the ground to meet the increasingly complex needs of our clients operating here and abroad."
Projected Hiring and Talent Acquisition
A central component of the expansion strategy is a significant increase in personnel. The firm plans to add more than 50 new legal and professional staff members to its Miami office over the next 24 months. The recruitment drive will focus on both lateral partner hires with established practices and the development of homegrown talent through its associate program.
Focus on Key Legal Sectors
The hiring initiative will target legal professionals with expertise in high-growth sectors. The firm has stated that approximately 60% of new hires will be focused on its transactional practices, including real estate and M&A, while the remaining 40% will bolster its litigation and arbitration teams.
The firm is actively recruiting for several senior positions and has expressed confidence in its ability to attract top-tier talent. The appeal of Miami as a place to live and work, combined with the firm's growing reputation in the market, is expected to make it a destination for ambitious legal professionals.
South Florida's Competitive Commercial Real Estate Market
Wexler & Finch's expansion is part of a larger trend in Miami's commercial real estate market. The demand for Class A office space has remained high, even as other markets have faced uncertainty. According to recent market reports, vacancy rates in premier buildings like 830 Brickell are exceptionally low.
Rental rates for top-tier office space in Miami's Brickell Financial District have reached record highs, often exceeding $100 per square foot. This makes securing a large block of space a significant long-term investment and a strong statement of a company's commitment to the market.
The competition for space is fierce, with major financial institutions, private equity firms, and other national law firms also expanding their presence. Wexler & Finch's ability to secure an additional floor in a highly sought-after building highlights its proactive growth strategy.
