2023 Women in CRE: Meredith Swisher, Bernkopf

What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? Complex title defects prevent clients from selling, refinancing, leasing, or developing their properties. As both a litigator and legal strategist, my proudest moments include successfully resolving such issues while preserving clients’ long-term commercial objections and reputation.

Who inspires you most? What qualities do they possess that inspire you? I am inspired by Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Her unyielding commitment to justice, gender equality, and intellectual rigor set a high bar for legal excellence. She overcame her own societal barriers, and pushed boundaries her entire career to champion rights for others. 

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight? “Meredith Swisher excels as a practical litigator in complex real estate cases. Renowned for her bottom-line orientation, she prioritizes trust in client relationships. Her efficiency, problem-solving understanding, and ability to de-escalate conflicts for real estate professionals make her exemplary for the Women in CRE spotlight.” - Jeannette Riendeau, Director of Marketing at Bernkopf.

What are the most important factors women in your industry should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with? Important factors include a genuine commitment to diversity and meaningful opportunities for advancement. A workplace should foster growth, encourage leadership roles, and prioritize flexibility and work-life balance. In law firms, representation of women not only as associates, but also as equity partners and in firm leadership and management roles are important considerations.