Go To Lawyers: Michael D. MacClary

Listen to this article

Years in practice:

27

Best known for:

Being a reputable lawyer representing retail and office tenants throughout Greater Boston and New England. Clients know that I can effectively help them find and close on their real estate deals.

Why I chose my practice area:

I always had an interest in real estate and what was involved in negotiating deals between parties to avoid litigation.

Most memorable case:

I had a client tenant who ran a struggling restaurant that was going to default and seeking a way out of its lease. I told them that I had another client in the same business who may be interested in the space. I put the two clients together and the new tenant made a deal with the landlord to take over the space that they had secretly coveted for years.

What makes me a leader in my field:

Very pragmatic while also being strategic in negotiations. Winning isn’t always about getting the better of the other side; winning is about getting the client the deal that they want without hitting problems along the way.

Outlook for 2026:

The market is changing with more vacancies and development in the Greater Boston area. We may see the market become more tenant-friendly due to many businesses seeking less space than usual given the changing trend of limited office use with more professionals choosing to work from home.

Bar involvement/leadership roles:

Former president of the Real Estate Bar Association of Massachusetts and still an active member

Representative clients:

Caffe Nero, Boston Pickle Club, Biolabs Boston, Zambrero, JPA Management, local franchisees for Halal Guys, Qdoba Mexican Grill, Jimmy Johns