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As an amateur race car driver, one of the most critical skills I’ve honed is situational awareness, which requires being prepared for rapid changes in the surrounding environment that often come from every direction. I believe that the best lawyers should utilize similar skills, and must always be cognizant of the big picture context and potential pitfalls that surround a particular matter, while simultaneously keeping an eye on the smaller details that will equally impact the matter’s outcome.  I make this approach a priority, both behind the wheel and behind my desk.  

Mr. McGowan focuses his practice in the area of real estate law. His experience encompasses all aspects of development, redevelopment, land use and zoning, real property transactions, project financing, and the representation of clients on issues related to property management, landlord-tenant matters, and day-to-day business counseling. He also serves as counsel to one of the major sewerage authorities in the state and has previously served as counsel to other public entities.

In addition to his experience as an attorney in private practice, Mr. McGowan previously served in an in-house legal capacity for a leading New Jersey based commercial developer. In his role as Vice-President of Development and Legal Affairs, he oversaw the development of numerous multi-family residential, retail and warehouse projects, and also assisted the company in navigating a broad range of legal and business challenges. Through this experience, he has acquired a unique perspective and deep understanding of the issues faced by commercial real estate developers and redevelopers, enabling him to take a business-oriented approach to his work on behalf of clients.

Honors & Awards

  • Selected by NJBIZ as a 2023 “Leaders in Law” honoree

Uniquely NJ

  • New Jersey State Bar Association; Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section, Board of Consultors
  • NAIOP New Jersey
  • New Jersey Builders Association
  • Citizens Bank, Advisory Board
  • Caldwell Historical Commission
  • Graduate Certificate in Construction Management from NJIT
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Presentations & Speaking Engagements

Publications & Alerts

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Education

Seton Hall University School of Law, J.D., 2005

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, B.A., 2002

Bar Admissions

  • New Jersey, 2005
  • U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey, 2005

Clerkships

  • Former law clerk to The Honorable Harriet F. Klein, Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County, Chancery Division (2005-2006)