Newark, New Jersey – Murphy Schiller & Wilkes LLP (MSW) is pleased to announce that Michael Higgins has joined the firm as an associate in its Land Use, Zoning and Redevelopment practice group.

Michael focuses his practice on representing developers, property owners, and investors in connection with complex real estate development projects throughout New Jersey. He has experience guiding clients through all phases of the land use approval process, including obtaining site plan, subdivision, and variance approvals for both ground-up developments and redevelopment projects.

“Michael’s significant experience and strong understanding of municipal approval processes, makes him a valuable addition to our team,” said Chris J. Murphy, Chair of the firm’s Land Use, Zoning and Redevelopment practice group. “We are excited to welcome him to the firm and look forward to his contributions to our growing practice.”

In addition to his land use work, Michael represents clients in residential and mixed-use real estate transactions, handling contract negotiation, due diligence, and closings. He has also assisted developers with condominium formation and registration, including the preparation of master deeds, public offering statements, and related filings. Michael regularly appears before planning and zoning boards and collaborates closely with project professionals to advance developments from acquisition through approval.

Prior to joining the firm, Michael served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Patricia O’Dowd in the Superior Court of New Jersey, where he gained experience drafting opinions, conducting legal research, and managing a high-volume docket.

Michael earned his J.D. from Rutgers Law School and his B.A. in History from Ramapo College of New Jersey. He is admitted to practice in the State of New Jersey.