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Sara Barli Herald

Partner
305-350-7232
Hablo Español
Area of Focus: Real Estate, Land Development & Government Relations, and Affordable Housing & Tax Credit
  • OVERVIEW
  • EXPERIENCE
  • INSIGHTS
  • CREDENTIALS
GET TO KNOW Sara
Sara's involvement with Public-Private Partnerships predates the 'P3' moniker. Her work within this space can be seen across Miami's iconic skyline. Sara's comprehensive understanding of real estate, corporate and government relations enables her to provide clients multifaceted legal guidance.

Sara brings to the table over two decades of business management experience. Having served as a C-suite executive within private and public corporations and NGOs, as well as heading a government agency, gives Sara a profound understanding of the implications of complex business decisions. She is successful at helping her clients navigate the intersection of business and law having once worn their shoes.
Q & A
How does your past P3 experience compliment the Firm’s Government Relations practice?
Public-Private Partnerships are rarely handled in a conventional manner. My experience brings together key legal disciplines found in these complex transactions. I call it the "three legged stool" merging real estate, corporate and government relations. My value lies in being well-versed within these three practices. I believe my legal experience compliments the depth of sophistication found in the Firm's P3 work.
How does your experience as a former C-level executive benefit your legal clients?
I have been in my client’s shoes and understand the pressures that can potentially keep my clients up at night. My 20 plus year history as a C-suite executive has given me invaluable and nuanced insights into the core functions of varied business structures. I use this firsthand experience to craft solutions to challenging business issues.
Describe your passions outside of the office.
Children. I have provided extensive pro-bono hours addressing systems of care for social services and child welfare. My love for marginalized children permeates throughout my career. I have either worked or volunteered for every major system in Florida addressing the needs of children.

I was a proud foster parent for thirteen years and will continue to endeavor towards creating systems that help young people actualize their potential.
My PRACTICES
Real Estate CMBS Corporate Bid Protests Government Contracting Public-Private Partnerships Affordable Housing & Tax Credit Financial Services Non-Profits
EXPERIENCE
EXPERIENCE
Investment in 28-Acre Miami Worldcenter Block E Mixed Use Development
Representation of New York-based developer as co-counsel in the negotiation of the Purchase and Sale Agreement, Development Agreement, and Construction, Operation, Restrictions and Reciprocal Easement Agreement related to the $43 million acquisition of Miami Worldcenter Block E. Also served as lead ...
EXPERIENCE
Relocation of Non-Profit Organizations
Representation of 13 Pista LLC, an entity led by a prominent Argentine developer, in the negotiation of a long-term ground lease for the relocation of a school for disabled children and two housing facilities for foster children. The relocation of the three non-profit agencies are in connection with...
EXPERIENCE
Affordable Housing Development in Coconut Grove
Representation of church in the development of an 80-unit affordable housing project in Coconut Grove, a neighborhood in Miami, Florida. Handled land use and zoning work, the joint venture development agreement between the church and the developer, and the ground lease with the developer.
EXPERIENCE
Acquisition and Renovation of Historic Coral Gables Hotel
Representation of international hotel designer in the acquisition, financing, and renovation of the historic La Palma Hotel and Restaurant in Coral Gables, Florida. Subsequently represented another purchaser in the acquisition of the property from the current owner.
EXPERIENCE
P3 Affordable Housing Project for Non-Profit
Representation of Casa Familia Inc., a non-profit organization, in the P3 development of a multifamily affordable housing project for adults with autism and other cognitive disabilities. Handled negotiations and government contracting with Miami-Dade County to secure a 50-year lease of County land f...
EXPERIENCE
$50 Million Assumption Secured by Texas Properties
Representation of one of the country's largest special servicers in a $50 million loan assumption secured by two Texas properties.
INSIGHTS
CREDENTIALS
  • University of Miami, J.D., 1979
    University of Florida, B.A., Political Science, English, 1976
  • Alonzo Mourning Charities
    Founding Board Member and Past President
    Breakthrough Miami
    Board Member, 2011 - Present
    CARE School
    Founding Board Member, 2014 - Present
    Children's Bereavement Center
    Board Member, 2018 - Present
    The Orange Bowl Committee
    Member, 2004 - Present
    Board Member; National Championship Host Committee, Chair; Big 12 Conference Liaison, Chair
    Overtown Youth Center
    Founding Board Member
    University of Miami
    Citizens Board, Member, 2019 - Present
  • Florida

  • Daily Business Review, Best Mentor Finalist, 2021

    Daily Business Review, Innovators Finalist, 2021

    National Law Journal,  Crisis Leadership Trailblazer, 2020

    American Red Cross, Sara Hopkins Woodruff Spectrum Award for Community Service, 2016

    Junior League of Miami, Rebekah Herndon Bush Award

  • Spanish