Lisa C. Goodheart

Ms. Goodheart won a favorable outcome for our Association (a non-profit Land Trust) in a case before the Massachusetts Land Court, Court of Appeals, and eventually reaching the Massachusetts Supreme Court. It was a difficult and lengthy case involving a landowner who had built a $ 300,000 barn on protected land, in direct violation of a Conservation Restriction held by our Association. We were unable to resolve the matter amicably, and had to resort to litigation. Thanks to her outstanding preparation, presentation, and diligence, we were able to prevail in court and cause the Barn to be moved off the restricted area. This case it likely to become a landmark precedent, in upholding the right of private non-profit Land Trusts to enforce the terms of Conservation Restrictions, and should therefore discourage future willful (or inadvertent) encroachment on land protected for conservation. We are most grateful and appreciative of her outstanding work.

J. Thomas Selldorff (Weston Forest and Trail Association, Inc.)

Weston, MA

Lisa Goodheart is friendly and approachable, which makes working with her delightful. Lisa has been an experienced and successful advocate for the Trust for Public Land. She understands both the legal issues and the facts; she masters complex details, and has a great knack for drilling into the heart of an argument. In her dealings with others, she is clear and respectful, yet tough-minded and protective of our interests. She is extraordinarily diligent and is the reliable timekeeper, prodding other members of the team to perform. Her courtroom advocacy is masterful. Lisa combines experience with a quick understanding that goes beyond the surface. She can think on her feet and respond with a flexibility that is remarkable. Importantly, she is able to look forward to the consequences of decisions, guiding litigation in a practical way to our desired result.

Valerie Talmage (Trust for Public Land)

Boston, MA