Land use, government affairs expert McPherson joins McCarter & English

August 12, 2026 - 14:48

McCarter & English LLP has added Kenneth D. McPherson III to its roster as special counsel, where he will split his time between the firm's real estate and government affairs practice groups. McPherson brings a background that spans land use law, zoning, and public sector dealings, making him a fit for clients navigating complex approval processes and regulatory hurdles.

His work is expected to focus on guiding developers, property owners, and corporate clients through municipal approvals, site plan reviews, and land use litigation. McPherson also has experience with environmental permitting and community outreach, which often becomes a sticking point in large projects. On the government affairs side, he will help clients engage with local and state agencies, shaping policy and securing the necessary political and administrative support for their initiatives.

Before joining McCarter & English, McPherson held roles that gave him direct insight into how local governments operate, which is a practical advantage when clients need to move projects forward without unnecessary delays. His dual focus is a strategic addition for the firm, which has been building out its capabilities in these intersecting areas. The firm's leadership noted that McPherson's blend of legal skill and public sector knowledge will be valuable for existing clients and for attracting new ones who face increasingly complicated approval landscapes.