___Messrs. Shaner and Helf share decades of experience in structuring, negotiating, documenting and reviewing title for commercial loans secured by real property, mortgage receivables and business assets. Their work for lenders includes modifications, forbearances, workouts, foreclosures, deeds in lieu of foreclosure and deficiency agreements.

They also negotiate and draft documents for the purchase, sale and leasing of real and personal property, and assist builders and developers with matters relating to construction, land use, zoning, subdivision, condominiums and homeowners associations.

Mr. Helf participates in all facets of civil litigation (in state and federal courts) involving commercial collections and real estate, and counsels small businesses on formation and operation issues. He lives in Glen Echo, Maryland with his wife, the writer Michelle Brafman, and two children. He is also active in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area music community, as drummer for the band Cravin' Dogs.

Since 1971, Mr. Shaner's practice has concentrated on commercial real estate acquisition and sale transactions, financing, land subdivision, and development and title issues. He has qualified as an expert witness in title-related litigation in the Circuit Courts of Fairfax and Prince William Counties, Virginia. He is a native of Northern Virginia and former partner of Hazel & Thomas, P.C. (now Reed Smith LLP). Mr. Shaner also serves as counsel to Quantum Title, assisting clients in the closing of commercial real estate transactions in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.