Steve Kaufmann Named to Daily Journal "Top 100"

Steve Kaufmann, a Partner in Nossaman’s Environment & Land Use Group, was recognized as one of the “Top 100” lawyers in California for 2019 by the Daily Journal, California’s leading legal newspaper.  The “Top 100” supplement annually recognizes California lawyers whose work has had an impact in the state and nationally. 

The Daily Journal’s profile of Steve noted that “few can match the four decades of experience” he has in the realm of coastal land use, and highlights his work earlier in his career at the “California Attorney General’s office representing the Coastal Commission as his primary client.”  Additionally, the profile lauds him for “obtaining Coastal Commission approval for the renovation of the Ranch at Laguna Beach hotel and golf course,” and his team's successful defense of a challenge by a local activist in trial court and the court of appeal.  Steve’s victory for his client in this matter allowed a project to proceed that had been initiated in 2014.

Reflecting on his practice and how his work can often help projects that have been delayed move forward, Steve stated that “the Coastal Act is an ingenious document and the commission wants to do the best job it can.  There are a lot of interests to be balanced, from plans to sea level change to promoting affordable accommodations near the coast.  In every matter there are problems that have to be solved.  There are times we have to push hard to make sure the commission is acting within its jurisdiction.”  Steve closed by adding that “what I want for clients is a fair shake and the opportunity to get approval.”

For the supplement, click here (subscription required).