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Carlos Diaz is an experienced land use attorney. With a deep understanding of zoning regulations, environmental considerations, and real estate development, Carlos guides clients through the complex and ever-changing landscape of land use and zoning law in Miami-Dade County.

Drawing upon his deep knowledge and experience, Carlos provides guidance to clients seeking to maximize the potential of their real estate assets. He assists individuals, businesses, and developers throughout the development process, from due diligence, subdivision approvals, zoning entitlements, to building permitting issues for a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.

Carlos also has considerable experience in historic preservation and archaeological matters including the historic designation and archaeological designation process, Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs), as well as transfer of development rights (TDRs) and transfer of development density (TDDs). Carlos has assisted clients seeking to undertake projects that involve historic structures, archaeological sites, or culturally significant areas. He understands the intricate balance required to uphold preservation objectives while facilitating responsible development. Carlos's experience extends beyond legal matters; he is deeply committed to fostering positive relationships with local historic preservation boards, community organizations, and cultural resource agencies. He understands the importance of collaboration and strives to facilitate open dialogue among stakeholders, with the ultimate goal of preserving our shared heritage while promoting responsible and sustainable development.

Carlos's comprehensive approach to land use and zoning matters encompasses strategic planning, due diligence, negotiations with government entities, and advocacy before regulatory boards and agencies. He is known for his ability to identify creative approaches to land use challenges, ensuring that his clients' objectives align with local regulations and community interests.

With a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of the legal intricacies involved in land use matters, Carlos has the ability to assess the feasibility of development projects and anticipate potential obstacles. He works closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that address their specific needs and legal goals, always aiming to secure the necessary approvals efficiently and effectively.

Beyond his legal experience, Carlos is a trusted advisor and advocate for his clients. He recognizes that land use projects require collaboration and positive relationships with local stakeholders, and he prides himself on his ability to build consensus among diverse parties. Carlos's strong communication skills, combined with his deep knowledge of the regulatory environment, enable him to represent clients with confidence and professionalism.

Carlos received his J.D. from Florida International University, where he graduated cum laude. During law school, Carlos served as the Managing Editor of the FIU Law Review and as a Student Senator in the Student Government Association. Carlos also served as a legal intern at the City of North Miami where he worked on various zoning and permitting issues.

Greenberg Traurig’s South Florida Land Use Team has made an impact throughout the state. View a map of the team’s work on Miami’s skyline.

Concentrations

  • Land development
  • Governmental law and policy

Capabilities

Experience

  • 830 Brickell
  • Allapattah 14 Residences
  • Aria Reserve
  • Art Plaza
  • Aston Martin Residences
  • Downtown 1st
  • Downtown 5th
  • Metro Parc Hialeah
  • Miami Plaza
  • Missoni Baia
  • No. 17 Residences
  • One Thousand Museum
  • Project Peach
  • Six Fisher Island
  • Soleste Grand Central
  • Soleste Spring Garden
  • Stirrup House Bed and Breakfast
  • The Julia Apartment Residences
  • Una Residences
  • Urban 22
  • Vita at Grove Isle
  • Wynd 27
  • Wynd 28
  • ABA Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP), Hon. Abby Cynamon, Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida, 2014
  • Legal Intern, North Miami City Attorney’s Office, 2014

Recognition & Leadership

  • Listed, The Legal 500 United States, Real Estate - Land Use/Zoning, 2024
  • Listed, The Best Lawyers in America, "Ones to Watch"
    • Real Estate Law, 2023-2025
    • Land Use and Zoning Law, 2024-2025
  • Team Member, a Law360 "Real Estate Practice Group of the Year," 2023
  • Graduate, Leadership Miami, Class 43
    • Winner, Outstanding Project of the Year
  • Team Member, Chambers & Partners USA Real Estate Law Firm of the Year, 2017-2018 and 2022
  • Fellow, Cuban American Bar Association (CABA), "Leadership, Education, And, Development (L.E.A.D.) Program, Class II," 2024

Credentials

Education
  • J.D., cum laude, Florida International University College of Law, 2016
    • Recipient, C.A.L.I. Excellence for the Future Award for Constitutional Law
    • FIU Law Review, Executive Managing Editor
    • Recipient, Cuban American Bar Foundation Scholarship
    • Senator, Student Government Association
    • Vice President, Hispanic Law Students Association
  • B.A., cum laude, Florida International University, 2012
  • A.A., Miami Dade College, 2010
Admissions
  • Florida
Languages
  • Spanish, Fluent