Pankratz, Craig L.

Since re-entering private practice in January, 1984 as a former Deputy Commissioner of Buildings I have been engaged in real estate, zoning, land use and construction law; specifically criminal defense of commercial and residential owners of buildings who have been issued violations of New York City Building, Fire, Air Pollution Codes, as well as violations of Landmarks Preservation Commission regulations and Environmental Laws. In these matters in addition to building owners, I represent architects and engineers. I have the experience necessary for such representation of these parties including such major commercial owners, as the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Tishman Speyer, GVA Williams, Colliers International, LLC, S. L. Green Realty Corp. and the Cipriani Banquet Hall and restaurants as well as other restaurants.

Also, I have been engaged as a legal consultant in connection with applications for waivers of certain provisions of the NYC Building Code which include the NYC Hi-Rise Fire Safety Code commonly known as Local Law No. 5.

Further, I have taken appeals to the NYC Board of Standards & Appeals in connection with applications for zoning variances of the NYC Zoning Resolution and the NYC Building Code and the Fire Code.

Finally, I have represented real estate and labor union clients before the New York City Council in connection with the adoption of legislation including NYC Building and Housing Laws.