William Lightner, Jr.Expert Witness and Consultant
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The Good Deal Exception has excused many mistakes in the world of real estate investing. But when markets turn for the worse, people become desperate, bad calls get noticed and lawsuits are filed. In an industry rife with conflicts of interest, real estate investors often claim they’ve been cheated by their sponsors. The question usually turns on whether a project sponsor took unfair advantage or simply did the best with a bad situation. The lawyer must be able to investigate and interpret nuanced facts in the context of a dynamic business enterprise. That’s where a seasoned expert is needed.
Qualifications (View Bill’s Resume)
Seasoned – Bill earned his gray hair navigating Lightner Property Group-sponsored real estate partnerships through a number of gut-wrenching real estate cycles. From the Jimmie Carter years through today’s turbulent times, he’s seen the drama played out many times and understands something about the actors.
Multi-faceted – Bill approaches real estate partnership problems from many points of view. He conducted post-mortems on over-leveraged tax deals as a bankruptcy lawyer. As an investor, he saved himself and a group of investors from a thieving General Partner. As a sponsor, he has successfully formed and managed his own syndications for 25 years, through good times and bad without high drama.
Personable – If you believe the medium is the message, you will want an expert who not only knows the subject but can convey it. Bill is known as a successful communicator, whether on paper or in front of an audience of challenging skeptics.
Perspicacious – Bill’s insights are technical as well as behavioral. While he is not a CPA, he has been able to see through financial smoke screens as well as intentionally confusing business gambits. Offering the analytical training of an attorney made relevant by years of on-the-ground experience as an operating partner of real estate investment and development entities, Bill is a valuable case analyst and litigation strategist, as well as an expert witness for both plaintiffs and defendants.
Areas of Expertise:
| Commercial Real Estate Due Diligence |
Real Estate Syndication Unfair Business Practices |
Procedure and Policy:
- Complimentary 30 minute telephone interview
- $7,500 retainer must be paid before Mr. Lightner’s name may be used with opposing party
- Review facts, documents, procedures
- Inspect property
- Assist in developing case strategy
- Review of case strengths and weaknesses
- Written report if requested
- Deposition and trial testimony
- Fee Schedule
- Contact the Lightner Property Group office to verify availability. Please contact Cathleen Higgins for more information, Phone:415-267-0262 E-mail: cch@lightnergroup.com.
