Dilworth Paxson LLP has announced a significant expansion of its Real Estate practice with the addition of Robert Baker, Jr., Michael Willner and Jesse Dimitro. The team joins from Scarinci Hollenbeck LLC, bringing a wealth of experience in complex commercial transactions, leasing, and high-stakes real estate litigation to the firm’s New Jersey and New York offices.
The move underscores Dilworth Paxson’s commitment to scaling its capabilities in response to a dynamic and increasingly complex real estate market.
The new additions bring a multidisciplinary approach to the firm, bridging the gap between sophisticated deal-making and proven courtroom experience.
“Rob, Mike, and Jesse bring a rare combination of deep transactional sophistication and proven litigation experience to our practice,” Patrick Northen, co-managing partner at Dilworth Paxson said. “Their proven ability to advise institutional investors, developers, lenders, landlords, and tenants on complex, multi-jurisdictional matters strengthens our capacity to help clients navigate an increasingly dynamic real estate landscape.”
- Robert Baker, Jr. (Partner, Cherry Hill): With over 20 years of experience, Baker specializes in sophisticated commercial transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, and financing. He has represented major investment firms and international corporations across various asset classes.
- Michael Willner (Partner, New York): Willner’s practice spans both New York and New Jersey, focusing on general counsel services and high-stakes litigation for condominium and cooperative boards, shareholders, and landlords. His expertise includes zoning, foreclosure actions, and construction defect claims.
- Jesse Dimitro (Senior Associate, New York): Focused on commercial and residential transactions, Dimitro brings extensive experience in handling property deals from inception to closing, including the negotiation of purchase agreements, joint ventures, and development documentation.
The transition allows the team to leverage Dilworth Paxson’s regional footprint—which includes offices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Delaware—to better serve their existing and future clients.
“This is an exciting opportunity for us to join a firm with a strong platform and collaborative culture,” Robert Baker, Jr. said. “We look forward to delivering more services to our clients and expanding our practice.”
