The Story of Bilzin Sumberg

LAYING THE GROUNDWORK: FROM MIAMI ROOTS TO GLOBAL IMPACT

Since its founding in 1998, Bilzin Sumberg has been central to reshaping Florida’s physical and economic landscape. From its launch in Miami, Bilzin Sumberg has since become the go-to firm in Florida for clients and co-counsel from throughout the state, across the U.S. and around the world.

Image of Downtown Miami with the Metro-mover riding by

Aerial view of a of the Miami skyline with tall glass buildings lining the waterfront under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

The firm’s roots trace back to 1977, when five visionary attorneys established its predecessor. Over the following years, the team expanded with the addition of attorneys who shared the same high level of legal sophistication, expertise and collective passion for shaping the region’s legal and business environment. In 1983, a pivotal merger with a prominent New York law firm marked a significant turning point. As Miami evolved into a commercial gateway to the Americas, the firm grew through strategic mergers and an influx of top-tier legal talent. By the time the firm officially launched under its current name, it stood on a foundation of deep local experience, national pedigree, and a bold vision for the future of Miami.

From Brickell to Aventura, and Miami Beach to Doral, the firm advised on landmark developments that helped power Miami’s early 21st-century boom. Its reputation as the legal engine behind South Florida’s real estate renaissance was built on insight, agility, and enduring relationships.

A vibrant Miami skyline at dusk, with illuminated skyscrapers and busy streets glowing under a purple-tinted sky

Tall palm trees line a modern city street surrounded by glass-covered skyscrapers under a bright blue sky

As Miami evolved into a global hub, Bilzin Sumberg expanded accordingly – growing beyond its real estate roots to become a leader in corporate law, tax, litigation, finance, insolvency and restructuring, and public-private partnerships. Its relocation to the modern 1450 Brickell building symbolized a forward-looking ethos and commitment to innovation.

Today, Bilzin Sumberg is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies, global investors, public entities, and private developers. Even as its impact extends across the globe, the firm’s heart remains in Miami - where it leads with purpose, uplifts the community through civic engagement and pro bono service, and drives meaningful change through initiatives like Bilzin Sumberg Cares.

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A golden sunset glows behind the Miami skyline, framed by palm fronds over calm waterfront

What sets Bilzin Sumberg apart is its ability to operate where legal excellence meets community impact. It has not only shaped Miami’s skyline, but also the city’s legal and civic infrastructure. Across decades, disciplines, and borders, Bilzin Sumberg continues to serve as a trusted partner for those building the future of Miami and beyond.

WATCH: Bilzin Sumberg's 20th Anniversary Video - Celebrating A Legacy Of Excellence

OUR NAME PARTNERS

"We always sought to be sincerely and wholeheartedly invested in our clients’ and partners’ visions for the potential and future of the city.”

Brian L. Bilzin

Brian Bilzin smiles in front of a softly blurred background featuring shelves with books and decor

“Our vision was to create a preeminent firm in South Florida, by attracting the top talent, representing the most sophisticated clients, and doing the most complex and interesting work.”

John C. Sumberg

“The other founding partners and I recognized the virtually unlimited potential when we decided to build a different kind of law firm in Miami, a firm that could help the city realize its best ambitions.”

Scott Baena
*Retired

"My greatest professional accomplishment has been guiding Bilzin Sumberg into the quintessential homegrown success story that it embodies today: an internationally-recognized firm that has never lost sight of its local roots."

Stanley B. Price
*Retired

“Investment in client relationships is about learning the client’s business and operations, its products, its services, its competitors, its industry, and its regulatory environment.”

Alan D. Axelrod
(In memoriam, 1950 – 2023)