Press Release

Hanson Bridgett Adds Former Walnut Creek Mayor Kristina Lawson as Partner

April 26, 2017 (SAN FRANCISCO, CA) – Hanson Bridgett LLP is pleased to announce that Kristina Lawson, former Walnut Creek mayor and council member, has joined the firm as partner in the firm’s Walnut Creek and San Francisco offices. The firm added four attorneys to the Real Estate & Construction section earlier in the year.

Kristina’s practice focuses on complex entitlement, land use, environmental and municipal matters. She is a respected advisor and authority on California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance and strategy. Kristina also advises clients on public policy and government relations strategy.

“Kristina’s time as an elected official gives her a unique perspective,” said Managing Partner Andrew Giacomini. “Combined with her legal expertise, Kristina’s government experience positions her to provide both nuanced and practical counsel on a wide range of issues facing our clients. We’re excited to have her on board.”

Kristina served as mayor and council member of the city of Walnut Creek from 2010-2014, and is currently serving as a gubernatorial appointee to the Medical Board of California. She also serves on the Boards of Directors of Swords to Plowshares and the East Bay Leadership Council.

Kristina has been recognized by the Daily Journal as one of the Top 20 Under 40 lawyers in California and one of the Top 50 Development, Land Use and Municipal Infrastructure Lawyers. In 2016, Kristina received the Elevate Industry Impact Award in honor of her unique achievements in the commercial real estate industry.

Kristina is a graduate of the Santa Clara University School of Law. Prior to joining Hanson Bridgett, she was a partner at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP in the firm’s land, environment & natural resources division.