By JAMES FINK
jfink@bizjournals.com | 716-541-1611

Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel LLP ended its search for new downtown Buffalo headquarters by opting to move into the Avant building.

The law firm will lease 33,000 square feet and take the entire ninth floor, as well as a portion of the 10th floor. It will move from the Bank of America building, where it currently occupies 37,000 square feet.

The deal gives the office portion of the Avant a second major law firm as a tenant. DamonMorey moved into the building right after it opened two summers ago.

"Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel's decision to locate at Avant reinforces the importance of having available real estate to meet the needs of today's most progressive companies," said Michael Montante, vice president of Uniland Development Co.

Uniland spent $85 million to renovate the former Dulski Federal Office Building into the Avant. The 15-story building is located at Delaware Avenue and West Huron Street.

Jaeckle has been scouting sites for more than a year and was one of the most coveted leases in the downtown Buffalo market. The firm has been in the Bank of America building for nearly 30 years and has more than 70 lawyers.

"Our move to a state-of-the-art, sustainably-designed building represents a step into the future and reinforces our commitment to remain in downtown Buffalo," said Joseph Kubarek, partner.

The law firm will move in the second half of this year.

Cannon Design of Grand Island has been retained to develop layout and design plans for offices, including furniture specifications.

The Avant includes the Embassy Suites hotel and 28 upscale condominiums.