Taft partner Jim Schwarz is the recipient of the 2025 Zeff Weiss Excellence in Real Estate Award, bestowed by the Indianapolis Bar Association’s Real Estate and Land Use Section. The honor recognizes lawyers who are shining examples of the extraordinary and positive achievements to the Indianapolis real estate and development community that were embodied by Zeff Weiss, whose significant commercial real estate practice is credited with significant high-profile projects that grew Indianapolis’ skyline over many years, until his passing in 2014.

Schwarz is a partner in Taft’s Real Estate group and represents real estate developers in the acquisition, development, financing, leasing, and sale of real estate. Among his many accomplishments, he served as developer’s counsel in connection with the development and financing of the largest shopping mall in the United States, the Mall of America. He has been recognized by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers®, and Indiana Super Lawyers in real estate law.