About Richard Heaton

Richard’s practice focuses on real estate transactions, including development, acquisitions, dispositions, financing, joint ventures and fund formation. He represents developers, managers, institutional investors, investment advisors, public and private real estate companies, REITs and financial institutions, helping them navigate complex legal matters related to property development, investment structures, operations and compliance issues. His background as counsel for real estate organizations provides him with practical insights into the business challenges facing clients in the real estate industry.

Richard previously served as the Chief Legal and Compliance officer at Hines, a vertically integrated real estate investment manager, where he oversaw the global Legal, Compliance and Risk Management functions. He built and managed an in-house legal department focused on delivering business-oriented transaction support and process improvements. His experience also includes serving as a member of the firm’s Audit & Compliance Committee, Geopolitical Council and ESG Council.

Concentrations

• Acquisitions and dispositions

• Joint ventures

• Real estate finance

• Private equity

• Fund formation

• Cross-border

• Leasing

• Development

Experience

In-House Experience

• Hines, 2013-2025

- Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, 2021-2025

- Senior Vice President – Head of Legal, 2017-2021

- Vice President, Legal, 2014-2017

- Corporate Counsel, 2007-2012

• Assistant General Counsel, NewQuest, 2007-2012

Recognition & Leadership

Awards & Accolades

• Selected, Houston Business Journal, “Best Corporate Counsel,” 2009

• Selected, Texas Lawbook, “Best General Counsel Finalist,” 2025

 

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Services

Areas of Law

  • Real Estate
  • Other 3
    • Real Estate Finance
    • Real Estate Funds
    • Institutional Investors

Practice Details

  • Languages
    English
    Native; Spanish
    Native
  • Firm Information
    Position
    Shareholder
    Firm Name
    Greenberg Traurig, LLP
  • Additional Links

Experience

  • Bar Admission & Memberships
    Admissions
    2004, New York
    2006, Texas
  • Education & Certifications
    Law School
    New York University School of Law
    Class of 2003
    J.D.
    Member, East European Constitutional Review
    Other Education
    Brigham Young University
    Class of 1998
    B.A.
  • Personal Details & History
    Age
    Houston, Texas
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Attorneys FAQs

  • What year was this attorney first admitted to the bar?
    Richard Heaton was admitted in 2004 to the State of New York.
  • Is this attorney admitted to the bar in more than one state?
    Yes, Richard Heaton is admitted to practice in New York and Texas.
  • How many attorneys are in this law firm?
    Greenberg Traurig, LLP has 2750 attorneys at this location.
  • What law school did this attorney attend?
    Richard Heaton attended New York University School of Law.
  • What year was this attorney's law firm established?
    Greenberg Traurig, LLP was established in 1967.