Kutak Rock: Griffiths Walter L

In the expansive and competitive landscape of legal services, certain firms stand out not only for their expertise but also for their historical significance and broad reach. Within the "Nearby Lawyers" category, Kutak Rock is a prime example of such an institution, with a significant presence in Omaha, Nebraska. This introduction will focus on Kutak Rock, particularly highlighting attorney Walter L. Griffiths, who is a senior member of the firm's real estate group in the Omaha office. The firm's address is 1650 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA, and they can be reached at (402) 346-6000 or +1 402-346-6000.

Kutak Rock’s environment in Omaha is exceptionally noteworthy. The firm’s Omaha office occupies the entire historic Omaha Building, located downtown on Farnam Street. Built in 1888 and designed by renowned architect Stanford White, this 11-story structure was once the tallest building between Chicago and San Francisco. In 1978, under the guidance of its founder, Robert J. Kutak, the firm made a major commitment to its preservation and complete renovation, marking a milestone in Omaha’s urban and river-based downtown revitalization efforts. Another renovation was completed in 2007, ensuring the building remains a modern and functional space while retaining its historical grandeur. This commitment to preserving and revitalizing a historical landmark speaks volumes about the firm’s deep roots and dedication to the Omaha community. The reception for their offices is conveniently located on the first floor, and parking is available in an attached, private facility with entry on the north side of Farnam Street, enhancing accessibility for clients.

Founded in Omaha in 1965 by Robert J. Kutak, Harold Rock, and William G. Campbell, Kutak Rock was envisioned as a "first-of-its-kind national law firm." What began as an agreement among three friends has grown into a formidable national presence with over 550 attorneys across 19 offices coast-to-coast. This extensive network means that while clients in Omaha work with local attorneys like Walter L. Griffiths, they also benefit from the collective expertise and resources of a large, integrated national firm. The firm’s "About Us" statement emphasizes a collaborative team approach, where attorneys often work across offices and practice groups to deliver multidisciplinary solutions.

Kutak Rock offers a comprehensive suite of legal services, aligned with the marketplace and reflecting the diverse skills and experiences of its attorneys. While the firm was founded in finance, it has evolved into a leading business law firm with primary service offerings in:

• Business and Corporate Law: This includes corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, securities regulation and compliance, transactional tax, and corporate governance.
• Public Finance: A foundational area for the firm, including bond counsel and disclosure counsel services for a wide range of public projects.
• Litigation: Covering a broad spectrum of disputes in both state and federal courts.
• Real Estate Law: This is where attorney Walter L. Griffiths’ expertise is particularly significant.

Walter L. Griffiths is the senior member of the real estate group in the Omaha office. His specialization in real estate law is critical for clients dealing with complex property transactions, development, finance, and related legal matters. His inclusion in Chambers USA® as a "Leading Real Estate Attorney" in Nebraska further underscores his recognized expertise and standing within the legal community. His areas of focus also extend to Public-Private Partnerships (P3s), Healthcare Real Estate, Structured Finance and Securitization, and Government Project Finance, demonstrating a sophisticated and broad practice within the real estate and finance sectors. This depth of experience is invaluable for commercial and governmental clients navigating complicated real estate ventures.

Key features of Kutak Rock’s overall approach, which Walter L. Griffiths embodies in his practice, include:

• Client Service: The firm places clients first, striving to provide exceptional value by understanding their businesses and being responsive to their needs. They emphasize providing customized client solutions.
• Integrity & Fairness: High ethical and professional standards are upheld in all activities, with an emphasis on fundamental fairness and mutual respect.
• Innovation: Attorneys are encouraged to be creative in providing legal services, working with clients to achieve their legal and business objectives through innovative strategies.
• Inclusiveness & Diversity: The firm is committed to diversity, believing that a diverse team broadens perspectives and enhances client service.

These values, articulated by the firm, are consistent with the legacy of its founder, Robert J. Kutak, who was instrumental in developing the new Model Rules of Professional Conduct for lawyers. His vision was for a firm that valued essential fairness and respect for all stakeholders, a commitment to community, and relentless attention to client service. This foundational philosophy continues to shape the firm's culture and operations today.

Kutak Rock's commitment to community involvement is also a prominent feature. Attorneys are deeply involved in various capacities with pipeline groups, children's charities, Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and Legal Aid of Nebraska. The firm's "KutakCares" initiative coordinates firmwide and office-specific giving opportunities, and their "Law Day" program, held in their Richmond and Omaha offices, provides urban youth with tours and opportunities to interact with legal professionals, encouraging future careers in law. This dedication to pro bono work and community service reflects a holistic approach to their role in society.

While specific client reviews for Walter L. Griffiths were not provided, the firm as a whole is recognized for its excellence. It has consistently been ranked among the largest law firms in the U.S. and has an "AV" rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating an independent organization can confer. This general recognition of the firm’s high standards and the consistent praise for its comprehensive legal services, client-centric focus, and innovative problem-solving indirectly speak to the quality of its individual attorneys, including Walter L. Griffiths.

For local users in Omaha seeking sophisticated legal counsel, particularly in complex real estate matters, Kutak Rock and its senior real estate attorney, Walter L. Griffiths, represent a formidable option within the "Nearby Lawyers" category. Their location in the historic Omaha Building, backed by a national firm with a strong foundation in ethical practice, innovation, and community engagement, assures clients of access to high-caliber legal services tailored to their commercial and governmental needs.