Michael Whitt Recognized by Legal Services of Greater Miami for Winning Pro Bono Appeal

Michael R. Whitt, Elisé K. Yarnell

Hahn Loeser Partner Michael R. Whitt was featured in the Legal Services of Greater Miami’s Newsletter for his pro bono work on behalf of a nonprofit corporation in Miami. With collaboration from Hahn Loeser Partner Elisé K. Yarnell, Whitt helped the nonprofit win an appeal to develop affordable housing on property that had been improperly classified as a conservation easement.

Efforts to remove the conservation easement began in 2016 and a trial court entered summary judgment in favor of Whitt’s client in 2022. Following an appeal from the opposition, the Third District Court of Appeal affirmed the decision in 2024, allowing the nonprofit to continue to pursue its mission of building affordable housing for sustainable community development.  

“Hahn Loeser & Parks remained 100% committed to assisting this great cause throughout a lengthy battle to clear away the illegitimate conservation easement,” said Whitt in a statement to Legal Services of Greater Miami. “We are thrilled that this much-needed affordable housing project has finally become a reality for this community.”

Legal Services of Greater Miami statement:
We are excited to present the Equal Justice Pro Bono Impact Award to Hahn Loeser & Parks for their exceptional advocacy. By co-counseling with Legal Services, they navigated significant legal challenges, including an improper easement, and advance a mission of developing affordable housing. Their dedication has made a meaningful impact in the community!