Stephen MacGillivray, Partner, Pierce Atwood LLP

Welcome to the profile of Stephen MacGillivray, a highly experienced and respected Partner at Pierce Atwood LLP, located at 1 Financial Plaza, Providence, RI 02903, USA. As a leading figure within the "Lawyers Near Me" category, Stephen MacGillivray and Pierce Atwood LLP offer a comprehensive suite of legal services designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals, businesses, and organizations in Providence, Rhode Island, and beyond.

Stephen MacGillivray's professional contact information includes a phone number at (401) 490-3430 and a mobile phone at +1 401-490-3430, ensuring accessibility for clients seeking expert legal counsel. The firm's Providence office is strategically situated in the heart of the city's Capital Center District, specifically on the 10th floor of One Citizens Plaza. This prime location offers not only convenient access by air, car, and rail but also boasts lovely, unobstructed views of WaterPlace Park, the city, and Narragansett Bay, creating a professional yet inviting environment. Paid parking is available behind the building, and visitors are greeted at a security desk before proceeding to the 10th floor.

With over two decades of experience, Stephen MacGillivray is particularly renowned for his expertise in complex litigation and real property disputes. His practice areas are extensive and include:

• Commercial Litigation: Stephen has a proven track record of representing clients in national litigation across several states, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, and Texas. He is known for successfully handling intricate commercial disputes, securing favorable judgments and dismissals in various high-stakes cases.

• Real Property Disputes: This is a core area of Stephen's specialization. He advises companies, high-net-worth individuals, and organizations on a wide range of real property issues, such as zoning and land use, title disputes, easement and access matters, condominium disputes, adverse possession, and prescriptive rights.

• Property Tax Abatement: For more than 20 years, Stephen has been instrumental in handling property tax abatement actions for large hotel chains, owners of significant commercial properties, and high-end residential property owners. His deep understanding of real estate appraisal rules and processes allows him to deliver maximum value to his clients by securing substantial tax reductions, including a notable $10 million reduction for a national hotel chain.

• Zoning and Land Use: Stephen has successfully assisted developers in appealing denials of zoning, wetlands, or environmental permitting. He has also represented municipalities on issues like ordinances related to renewable energy projects, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of regulatory frameworks.

• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): As the Chair of the Rhode Island Bar Association's Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee, Stephen is well-versed in mediation and other ADR methods, offering clients effective alternatives to traditional litigation.

Stephen MacGillivray's distinguished career is marked by significant accolades and recognition within the legal community. He has been consistently recognized by prominent legal directories such as Chambers USA for Commercial Litigation (from 2021 to the present) and by The Best Lawyers in America® for both Commercial Litigation and Tax Law (2025). These recognitions underscore his exceptional competence, thoroughness, and effectiveness as a legal professional. Clients and peers describe him as "exceptionally competent and well-prepared," "outstanding," and "thorough, to-the-point and a downright joy."

Beyond his direct legal practice, Stephen is a prolific lecturer and author, frequently sharing his insights on property tax abatement legal issues and strategies. His commitment to the legal profession extends to his active involvement in various bar associations, including the American Bar Association, Massachusetts Bar Association, New York State Bar Association, and Rhode Island Bar Association. He also serves on the Rhode Island Advisory Council for the New England Legal Foundation and has been a dedicated member of the Middletown (RI) Zoning Board for over ten years.

Pierce Atwood LLP, the firm where Stephen MacGillivray is a Partner, is a highly regarded full-service law firm with a strong reputation in New England and national recognition for its expertise. The firm's success is built on attracting superb legal talent, achieving superior client satisfaction, and delivering exceptional value. Their attorneys are committed to providing creative, timely, and business-minded legal solutions, understanding the critical importance of responsiveness and efficiency in client service. The Providence office, in particular, offers a broad array of practices, including construction, employment, life, health, disability, and ERISA insurance, maritime law, bankruptcy & creditors' rights, commercial litigation, trusts & estates law, and more.

For those seeking legal services in areas of commercial litigation, real property disputes, or property tax abatement, Stephen MacGillivray at Pierce Atwood LLP presents a compelling choice. His extensive experience, specialized knowledge, and dedication to client success make him a formidable advocate. The firm's modern office environment in Providence, coupled with its highly skilled legal team, ensures a professional and supportive experience for all clients.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation with Stephen MacGillivray, interested parties are encouraged to contact Pierce Atwood LLP directly at the provided phone numbers. Whether you are a business navigating complex litigation, a property owner facing tax assessment challenges, or a developer seeking guidance on land use, Stephen MacGillivray offers the expertise and dedication required to achieve favorable outcomes.