A.Y. Strauss is pleased to announce that Cheri R. Ciano has joined as Counsel in the firm’s Commercial Real Estate Group.

Ciano focuses on real estate development, with extensive experience negotiating and structuring complex transactions, leases, mergers and acquisitions. She also brings expertise in construction, commercial lending, and affordable housing projects, handling high stakes deals and guiding clients through all stages of development.

“Cheri brings a remarkable depth of experience and a solutions-oriented mindset to our real estate team,” said Aaron Strauss, Managing Partner. “Her proven ability to handle complex transactions and align legal strategy with business objectives will significantly enhance the services we provide to our clients.”

Ciano will further strengthen the firm’s commercial real estate practice, providing clients with strategic guidance on high-value transactions, structuring deals, and mitigating risk in major development projects. Her insight into deal structuring and risk management will complement the firm’s existing strengths and serve as an asset to developers, investors, and lenders navigating complex real estate matters.

“Joining A.Y. Strauss presents an excellent opportunity to work with a team that values innovation in real estate law and fosters a collaborative environment,” said Ciano. “With my experience managing large-scale developments and navigating complex transactions, I look forward to contributing to the firm’s continued success and helping clients achieve their goals through strategic, practical legal guidance.”

Before joining A.Y. Strauss, Ciano was Counsel at a full-service New Jersey law firm, where she worked in the Commercial Real Estate Group handling major real estate transactions and development projects. Earlier in her career, she served as in-house counsel for several leading commercial real estate companies, managing project development, structuring joint ventures, and advising on corporate governance, procurement, and compliance for large-scale developments.