Patricia has more than three decades of l experience in local government and land use law. Recognized for her thoughtful, incisive approach, she advises public and private sector clients on planning and zoning laws, guides land use applications, and obtains project approvals, including environmental and regulatory permits. Patricia has presented and written extensively on land use topics, including co-authoring State and Local Government Land Use Liability (Thomson Reuters).

Land Use

Patricia advises clients on all aspects of land use law, including the application of affordable housing and density bonus laws, as well as SB 35, which allows ministerial approvals of qualifying affordable housing projects. She has extensive experience in processing entitlements for complex master planned and mixed-use projects throughout the state and in obtaining land use entitlements for projects to support the disabled and handicapped.

Public and Private Sector

A wide range of clients seek Patricia’s representation for her experience, deep insight, and compassionate demeanor. She has worked with landowners and developers of commercial, industrial, residential and agricultural property (including growers, wineries, and related businesses), shopping center owners, hotel and resort owners, educational institutions, public agencies, and hospitals and medical facilities. She also serves as special land use counsel to several cities, counties and special districts.

Geological Hazard Abatement Districts

Patricia serves as legal counsel to Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHADs). She counsels GHADs and similar entities on related issues, and represents property owners, cities, and counties in forming GHADs. As secretary on the board for the non-profit California Association of GHADs, she works to improve the effectiveness of GHADs at preventing, mitigating, and controlling geological hazards. Patricia has written several articles and papers related to GHAD formation and implementation.