FIRM NEWS: Chambers USA Awards Firm Top Ranking in Zoning/Land Use Law in South Florida

Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized by Chambers, one of the world’s most respected and prestigious legal directories, with a Band 1 ranking in Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use Law – South Florida for 2026. This marks the sixth consecutive year the firm has received Chambers’ highest ranking in the practice area.

In addition to the firm’s continued Band 1 recognition, founding partner Jeffrey Bercow was again ranked among the leading attorneys in the field. Shareholder Melissa Tapanes Llahues maintained her Band 2 ranking, reflecting her continued excellence and leadership in zoning and land use law. Shareholder Michael Larkin also maintained his ranking at Band 3. The firm is also pleased to announce that partner Thomas Robertson earned a Band 3 ranking in Real Estate: Litigation, recognizing his growing reputation and outstanding work representing clients in complex real estate disputes.

Chambers annually ranks law firms and attorneys through an extensive research process that includes in-depth interviews with clients, peers, and industry professionals. For more than two decades, Chambers has published independent, research-driven rankings that are widely regarded as among the most authoritative assessments of legal excellence. Inclusion in the guide is based solely on the findings of Chambers’ research team.

The firm’s continued Band 1 ranking reflects Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes’ unwavering commitment to excellence, deep industry knowledge, and dedication to delivering exceptional client service.

In the 2026 Chambers USA Guide, clients praised the firm saying “Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes stands out for its reputation, authenticity, attention to detail, proactivity and trustworthiness,” while also highlighting the team’s extensive knowledge, practical experience, and ability to navigate complex land use and development matters.

Jeffrey Bercow, who has been ranked by Chambers since 2004, was recognized for his exceptional legal acumen and strategic guidance. Clients noted that his ” vast experience, knowledge and reputation in Miami make him the preeminent attorney for real estate development within the County.” Michael Larkin was commended as “an outstanding zoning attorney with deep technical knowledge” and recognized for his credibility and effectiveness before local governments, particularly in the City of Miami Beach. Melissa Tapanes Llahues was described as “an incredible attorney” and praised for her “strong reputation and quality work.” Thomas Robertson’s ranking reflects his growing prominence in real estate litigation and his success representing clients in high-stakes land use, property rights, and development-related disputes.

“We are honored to receive this continued recognition from Chambers,” said Melissa Tapanes Llahues. “These rankings are especially meaningful because they are based on feedback from our clients and peers. We are grateful for the trust our clients place in us and remain committed to providing innovative solutions, strategic counsel, and exceptional service.”

Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes, located at 200 S. Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 300, Miami, was established in 1996. The firm handles all aspects of local, state and federal real estate permitting and licensing, including zoning approvals, amendments of local government comprehensive plans, site planning, due diligence reviews, growth management, concurrency, environmental and permitting matters.

For more information, contact 305-374-5300 or visit www.brzoninglaw.com.