Karen McLaurin Buresh

Karen advises private companies and public agencies in a wide range of matters including civil litigation, project and planning, real estate acquisition, land development, land use, zoning and entitlements, environmental compliance and challenges (CEQA, NEPA and others), construction issues, disputes and claims, and legislative advocacy. Karen represents clients from project inception through project closure, in administrative proceedings and in litigation in federal and state courts including appeals.

Karen brings a wealth of experience spanning over 30 years to support clients across California in the planning, development and implementation of large scale private and public projects. She has extensive experience in dealing with public agencies at all levels with unique experience and expertise on agencies’ legal obligations under federal, state, and local law. This includes providing guidance on important matters relating to the California Brown Act, Public Records Act, and Governmental Tort Claims Act.

Karen has effectively worked alongside board members and staff to ensure compliance and has collaborated extensively with City Attorneys, County Counsel, and General Counsel to address various issues. Additionally, she has worked closely with in house staff and consultants to assess agency needs and obligations. Karen consistently assists clients in making well-informed and sensible decisions that not only adhere to the strict requirements of California laws and regulations, but also minimize risk and exposure. Throughout her career, she has successfully defended clients in regulatory actions and in various legal proceedings at both the state and federal levels, including in Superior Courts, Courts of Appeal, federal agencies, and the Federal District Court, as well as administrative proceedings at the local, state, and federal level.