Steven E. Otto

Steven Otto
Steven Otto recently joined Crosbie Gliner Schiffman Southard & Swanson LLP (CGS3) – a Southern California-based commercial real estate law firm – as partner. Previously a senior attorney with Pinnacle West Capital Corporation, Steven is now based in CGS3’s San Diego office. He has special expertise in assisting clients in the energy sectors – drawing on his engineering degree as well as his military service. His experience with major projects spans the acquisition, development, leasing and sale of office, industrial and retail portfolios, residential developments, power plants and mixed-use office/retail projects. He holds an M.B.A. from the Rady School of Management at UC San Diego, a J.D. from The George Washington University Law School, and a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from the United States Naval Academy.

Favorite Legal Book
The Firm
Favorite Legal Movie
It’s a toss-up between Philadelphia and Twelve Angry Men.
Favorite U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Justice Antonin Scalia, who was passionate about his legal philosophy, but open to dialogue and courteous to those who disagreed with him.
Favorite Lunch Spot
Anywhere outside and in the shade.
Favorite Legal Quote
“The Law is a jealous mistress, . . . “ Joseph Story, Supreme Court Justice (1779-1845)
Legal Mentors
David Rogers, incredibly intelligent and adept at seeing both the forest and the trees.
Career You’d Choose Besides Lawyer
Brain Surgeon, but I have big shaky hands.
Hobbies
Our 1938 house … enough said …
Go-To Vacation Spot
Princeville, Island of Kauai, Hawaii
Top Bucket List Item
A multi-month grand tour of Europe
Guilty Pleasure
Chocolate
My Co-Workers Would be Surprised to Learn
Since 1995, I have not knowingly had non-chocolate caffeine.
I Am So Proud of following my goals of life-long learning, growth, and challenging myself outside of my comfort zone.
Nothing Makes Me Happier Than spending time with my family, and even better, travelling with my family.
On the Weekends I support my daughter’s inherited love of competitive and recreational sailing.
I’m a Fanatic About personal privacy, but I guess the cat is out of the bag now.

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