Peter Lutz

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Rochester Office Managing Partner, Hodgson Russ LLP

Years in current role: Almost 6

What is one legal issue or trend you’re keeping a close eye on this year?

Not so much of a legal issue but a business issue that affects all lawyers involved in transactional practices is high interest rates. Interest rates — and in particular the 10-year treasury yield — have remained stubbornly high. Until rates settle down, economic activity will remain softer than normal. If the 10-year treasury yield moves below 4% on a prolonged basis, expect activity to pick up.

What skills do you think are most crucial for new attorneys entering the field today?

Knowing the law is just the baseline. Being able to provide practical, sound business advice to clients is what separates lawyers.

What’s one misconception people often have about your area of law?

People tend to think of real estate as boring. The real estate world is populated with entrepreneurs, risk takers and colorful personalities!

How does the Rochester community influence your work or professional philosophy?

People in Rochester tend to be decent, hardworking and practical. The practice of law is different here than that of a large city, where the practice can be more cutthroat and grinding. The clients I work with want to get their transactions closed without a lot of drama. They want their deals done right without being over-lawyered.

What’s your ideal way to spend a weekend in the Finger Lakes or Western New York?

With family and friends outdoors (when we can!) with good food and drink.

This profile is part of our Tax Law Power List for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at nydailyrecord.com.