Shahrzad Emami

Shahrzad Emami is a Lecturer at the University of Miami School of Law and Adjunct Professor in Affordable Housing Law and Real Property Development. She holds a JD and LLM in Real Property Development from the University of Miami and a BA in Communication Studies & Theatre Arts (magna cum laude) from Vanderbilt University. Her expertise spans affordable housing development, nonprofit governance, and real estate finance. She previously served as Chief Legal Counsel at the Miami Association of Realtors (2021–2021), Advocacy Director at Legal Services of Greater Miami (2007–2020), and Director of the Florida Community Development Legal Project (2017–2020).

• Education: University of Miami LLM (2007), JD (2006); Vanderbilt BA (2003)
• Key Roles: Adjunct Professor at UM Law (2012–present), FIU College of Law (2010–2015)

Her research focuses on housing policy, nonprofit asset protection, and tax-exempt organization strategies. Notable work includes structuring housing tax credit programs, advising on bond financing, and drafting construction documents for affordable housing ventures.

Recent publications address premises liability reform (2025), senior housing development (2023), and Florida property tax exemptions (2024). Recognitions include the National Housing Law Project’s Housing Justice Award (2013) and Florida Trend Legal Elite (2018).

She advises nonprofits on corporate governance, subsidiary formations, and long-term planning. Active in professional organizations including the Florida Housing Coalition and American Bar Association’s Affordable Housing Forum.