Michael Viola is an attorney with the firm and is a member of the Real Estate and Development Practice Group, where he advises and represents clients in all areas of commercial and residential real estate transactions and developments.

Michael’s practice is focused on:

• Real estate development;
• Commercial real estate transactions;
• Residential real estate transactions;
• Community Association law;
• Land use and zoning;
• General/business law;
• School law.

He brings significant experience to a transaction as a result of his work for clients involved in complex purchases and sales of real estate and the development of commercial, residential and mixed-use projects.  He has worked closely with developers on several prominent commercial development projects in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area as well as out-state Minnesota.  His past experience working for a major title insurance underwriter allows him to bring unique expertise in the resolution of any title issue.  He works closely with underwriters to resolve issues and ensure the transaction closes on time.

Michael’s services include:

• Negotiation and drafting of real estate purchase agreements and leases;
• Land acquisition and development;
• Drafting of easements;
• Review of title and resolution of title issues;
• Analysis and management of due diligence issues related to the purchase, sale or lease of property;
• Obtaining government approvals;
• Financing;
• Formation of common interest communities and maintenance of community associations. 

Working closely with his clients to ensure that he clearly understands their needs, Michael can anticipate issues before they arise.  By working with clients as part of their team, he hopes to provide pro-active and efficient solutions to help meet their legal needs.

Michael is licensed to practice law in both Minnesota and California, and is a member of the Real Property Section of the Minnesota State Bar Association.  He is active in several local community organizations as well as a member of the Board of Trustees of a highly successful charter school.

Michael joined Hellmuth & Johnson, PLLC in 2009.  He obtained his J.D. from the University of San Francisco after completing his undergraduate work from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations.