The Buffalo-based law firm of Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP is pleased to announce that Joseph P. Heins was recently named an “Up and Coming Attorney” at The Daily Record’s 2015 Excellence in Law awards. Mr. Heins was honored during a luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Rochester on June 17.

 Mr. Heins is an associate in Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman’s Commercial Real Estate department, where he focuses on leasing, sales and acquisitions, project development, financing, and real property title matters. He is also experienced in the retail sector, representing developers, landlords, and tenants of shopping malls and other retail establishments.

 Since joining the firm in 2014, Mr. Heins assisted in the acquisition of more than 20 properties, which were valued at more than $250 million. Additionally, he was integral in the closing of a sale of more than 190 retail branches for a large international bank.

 “It is an honor to be recognized by such an outstanding publication,” said Heins. “Such an award would not be possible without the love and support of my family, and the mentorship and guidance that I have received from many colleagues over the years, and to them I am sincerely grateful.”

 Mr. Heins also lends his time and talents to volunteering within Western New York community. He is involved in a variety of organizations, including the Amherst Chamber of Commerce Emerging Business Leaders. This past year, Mr. Heins founded the EBL’s Public Policy Committee, which works with elected officials to give young professionals a voice in governmental matters.

 Mr. Heins is a graduate of St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute as well as Canisius College. He earned his Juris Doctor from Notre Dame School of Law.

 “Joe’s recent recognition as an Excellence in Law honoree is extremely well deserved,” said Paul F. Wells, who co-chairs Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman’s Real Estate practice group. “His contributions and tireless work ethic are assets to our Real Estate department, to our firm as a whole, and especially to our clients.”