Have you ever driven by a property and been surprised by the addition of a development? Worse, has the addition of a development completely changed how you envisioned your own property?  For most real estate projects, breaking ground marks the conclusion of months (or years) of expensive and complex negotiations and planning. Those outside of the development process may question when they are entitled to learn about a proposed development in advance of construction. 

The availability of affordable housing in the United States has been identified as a national crisis, caused by many different factors over several decades. In 2023, Arlington County, Virginia sought to address its housing shortage via amendments to the County zoning ordinance known as the “Missing Middle”. A recent Virginia Court of Appeals decision calls the future of affordable housing regionally into question by potentially “reactivating” the Missing Middle zoning amendments.

Kramer Elias partners Theodora Stringham and Crystal Kramer were recently honored by Legal Services of Northern Virginia (LSNV) for their dedication to providing volunteer legal representation “pro bono.”  LSNV staff including Executive Director James A. Ferguson, Jr. and the Honorable Rossie D. Alston, Jr. of the Eastern District of Virginia presented the awards at LSNV’s annual Pro Bono Reception, held at the George Mason University Antonin Scalia School of Law.

Kramer Elias officially launched its new firm offices with a ribbon-cutting ceremony coordinated by the City of Fairfax Economic Development Authority (EDA). EDA CEO Chris Bruno and Assistant Director of Programs, Tara Borwey were on hand to welcome the Firm to the City’s vibrant business community.

Kramer Elias attorneys Crystal Kramer and Theodora Stringham recently volunteered as part of the “Color of Justice,” an annual event aimed at exposing Northern Virginia middle and high school students to potential careers in the law. A total of approximately 200 student attendees this year.

Kramer Elias recently sponsor and attend the 2025 Fairfax Bar Association (FBA) “Bench Bar Dinner Dance.” Hundreds of judges, attorneys, and other legal professionals attend the event annually. This year’s theme was “Red Carpet Casino.”