Brandon McFarlane is a Law Clerk in the Fort Lauderdale office of Shutts & Bowen LLP, where he is a member of the Real Estate Practice Group. His background includes both private practice and public service, advising clients on commercial and industrial real estate matters. His practice focuses on renewable energy developments, mixed-use projects, academic institutions, and complex leasing and acquisition transactions.
Prior to joining Shutts, Brandon practiced at a multinational law firm where he drafted, negotiated, and managed a wide array of real estate deals and due diligence processes, including those related to M&A transactions.
In an earlier role, he represented organizations developing affordable housing and economic development initiatives. There, he specialized in structuring complex real estate transactions, navigating zoning and land use regulations, and supporting clients through all phases of the design-build process.
In addition to his legal career, Brandon is a decorated U.S. Army Officer with more than 15 years of service. He currently holds the rank of Major and serves as a Company Commander in the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion. His prior military roles include Civil-Military Operations Chief, Plans Chief at US Army Europe and Africa Command, and Operations Officer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He has served both stateside and overseas, including a deployment to Afghanistan, and has received commendations including the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal.
Credentials
Education
- Air University, Master of Joint Warfare, 2025
- University of Southern California, Master of Urban Planning and Development, 2021
- University of Richmond School of Law, J.D., MBA, 2017
- Norwich University, Master of Public Administration, 2014
- Norwich University, B.A., Political Science, 2009
- Master of Public Administration, 2014
Bar Admissions
- Pennsylvania
- Not admitted to practice in Florida
Languages
- Spanish
Professional and Civic
- Allegheny County Bar Association
- Bar Leadership Initiative Class, 2021
- Leadership Pittsburgh: Community Leadership Course for Veterans Class VIII
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.: Gamma Lambda Sigma Chapter
- Pittsburgh Housing Court-Landlord Tenant Pro Bono Mediation
Publications
- Flats on Forward in Squirrel Hill Moves Forward Despite Unique Challenges, Regional Housing Legal Services (January 19, 2022)
- With the Legal Work Complete, New Granada Square Can Begin Construction, Regional Housing Legal Services (June 1, 2021)