James S. Arrabito Partner

James S. Arrabito is a Partner at Mahon Rider McKay, where he focuses his practice on the intersection of commercial real estate, development, environmental risk, and energy. He is trusted by owners, developers, operators, and lenders to structure and negotiate transactions with clear, practical allocation of environmental and development risk—so projects can close, get built, and operate in a compliant manner. James regularly negotiates commercial real estate purchase and sale transactions and commercial leasing, with an emphasis on diligence strategy, risk allocation, and contract terms that reflect real-world development and operational needs. This includes structuring and negotiating provisions addressing environmental conditions, land use constraints, and post-closing responsibilities. James also negotiates commercial finance transactions connected to commercial real estate and development, supporting clients in evaluating and allocating project-related risk. He is experienced in aligning diligence findings with financing documentation, closing deliverables, and ongoing covenant compliance.

James further advises clients on environmental cleanups and remedial strategy under state and federal law, including counseling on liability frameworks and practical approaches to investigation, remediation, and closure—whether driven by transactions, redevelopment, enforcement concerns, or operational needs. His background includes complex matters under CERCLA and analogous state statutes. Moreover, James provides environmental regulatory advisement under major federal and state programs, including counseling and dispute support arising under statutes such as the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, TSCA, and RCRA, among others, as well as state regulatory regimes impacting property and operations. Finally, James supports clients pursuing renewable energy projects, advising on siting, diligence, contracting, and environmental/regulatory issues that can affect development, construction, and long-term operations.

Prior to joining MRM in May 2023, James practiced in environmental and litigation-focused roles and clerked for the Honorable Justice Jaynee LaVecchia (Ret.) of the New Jersey Supreme Court. He is admitted in New York and New Jersey, including federal court admissions in the District of New Jersey and the Eastern District of New York.