Sean Hopkins

Mr. Hopkins’ practice focuses on representing developers seeking land use approvals and permits for projects of all types including mixed-use projects, multifamily projects, residential subdivisions, student housing, senior housing, retail stores and plazas, office buildings, religious uses, agricultural uses, and industrial projects. During the past 28 years, Mr. Hopkins has represented clients at more than 5,000 public hearings and meetings of local municipal boards and committees.

 

He has been involved in all aspects of the environmental review of projects pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act, including large projects involving Environmental Impact Statements. He has handled numerous land use litigation matters including Article 78 proceeding and appeals.

 

Mr. Hopkins has also been retained by municipalities in connection with amendments of Zoning Codes to encourage the redevelopment of underutilized sites and zoning enforcement actions.

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The scope of his practice also involves the permitting review process for numerous state and federal agencies including U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NYS Department of Transportation, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, WNY Board of Review and the U.S.  Environmental Protection Agency.

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Mr. Hopkins also handles a broad range of real estate related matters including commercial closings, commercial leases, and financing for numerous multimillion dollar projects including those involved Industrial Development Agencies.

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He is a founding member and Partner with Hopkins, Sorgi & McCarthy, PLLC and has presented on a diverse range of land use and real estate related topics at numerous continuing legal education seminars. He is a past adjunct professor at the University at Buffalo Law School and taught land use law.  He is currently an adjunct professor at Niagara University and teaches various business law classes.

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Education:

• University at Buffalo Law School, J.D.

• University at Buffalo, MBA

• University at Buffalo, B.S.

 

Professional Memberships:

• Member, Bar Association of Erie County