Overview
Jonathan represents real estate developers and businesses in the acquisition, entitlement, financing, and construction of commercial real estate projects, which includes a focus on renewable energy projects in Wisconsin. He helps his clients navigate state and local government issues, including zoning and tax issues. Jonathan also works on behalf of commercial and residential contractors to structure and negotiate their contracts, and guide them throughout the project life cycle. Additionally, Jonathan advises clients who are seeking to limit capital gains exposure in their sale of property by structuring 1031 exchanges.
Known for his diligent approach to resolving complex legal issues, Jonathan provides timely and thorough guidance to his clients. Through his transparent and communicative nature, he works to establish the resolution of outstanding issues clients maintain and uncertain legal positions clients wish to take.
Prior to joining Michael Best, Jonathan worked with the Mergers & Acquisitions team at a multinational professional services firm, where he assisted clients on matters from an indirect tax perspective. He also gained valuable experience with a variety of real estate and tax issues as a clerk at two Chicago-based firms.
Experience
Solutions in action
- Counsel clients in the purchase, sale, and leasing of real property, including office, retail, multi-family, and manufacturing spaces.
- Draft and negotiate construction and architect contracts on behalf of both owners and contractors for commercial and residential projects, including the $35 million redevelopment of a historic athletic club and a $30 million corporate office headquarters.
- Participate in New Markets Tax Credit, Historic Tax Credit and other complex financing transactions on commercial real estate developments.
- Draft and advise on easements, licenses, and land use and zoning issues.
- Assist with 1031 exchanges and advise on tenancy-in-common agreements relating to same.
Credentials
- Loyola University Chicago School of Law, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2015, CALI Award for Legal Writing; Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot Fellow; Loyola Federal Tax Clinic
- Loyola University Chicago School of Law, Master of Laws (LL.M.), 2015
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), 2011
- Wisconsin
- Illinois
- Leading Construction Lawyer, Chambers USA, 2026-present
- Selected to Real Estate Rising Stars, Super Lawyers®, 2024-Present
- Best Lawyers®, “Ones to Watch” (Milwaukee Area), Real Estate Law, 2022-present
Engagement
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, Wisconsin Bar Association
- Member, Illinois Bar Association
- Member, Chicago Bar Association
- Member, Commercial Association of Real Estate Wisconsin (CARW)
- Board of Directors, Betty Brinn Children’s Museum
- Board Member, Schlitz Audubon Center
Insights

Wisconsin Circuit Court Reverses Shorewood Beach Access Trespass Conviction, Potentially Expanding Public Access Rights Along Lake Michigan
A decision by the Milwaukee County Circuit Court rendered on September 3 may have significant implications for owners of waterfront property along Wisconsin’s shoreline.Read
Sep 8, 2026

Key Changes to Milwaukee Metropolitan Builders Association (MBA) Home Construction Contract (2026 Update)
The Metropolitan Builders Association of Greater Milwaukee (“MBA”) recently released an updated version of its standard Home Construction Contract.Read
Jun 30, 2026

Real Estate Reversal: Wisconsin Supreme Court Overturns Koble Case on Residential Leasing
For approximately two years, Wisconsin residential landlords faced severe consequences if any of their residential leases violate the “Ten Commandments of Wisconsin Residential Leases” found in Wis. Stat. § 704.44 as a result of a Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruling known as Koble Investments v. Marquardt, 2024 WI App. 26.Read
Jun 5, 2026
