Phillip Hummel provides land use and zoning counsel in several Maryland jurisdictions and is dedicated to achieving outstanding results for his clients. His deep understanding of current trends, close monitoring of evolving laws and policies, and extensive relationships with key government and organizational contacts provide him with a significant strategic advantage. Phil uses this expertise to chart the best course toward his clients’ goals.

Phil advises developers, property owners, nonprofits (such as hospitals, museums, and religious organizations) and senior living facilities on a wide range of matters. His expertise includes zoning, planning, entitlements, permitting, historic preservation, development impact taxation and other matters related to land use regulation. From due diligence to permitting, he offers thoughtful guidance on navigating complex issues.  He regularly represents clients before municipal, county and state agencies. When disputes arise after project approval, Phil brings his strong litigation skills to Maryland courts, ensuring his clients are well represented.

His early legal experience as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable W. Michel Pierson (Circuit Court for Baltimore City) and Honorable Patrick L. Woodward (Court of Special Appeals of Maryland, now the Appellate Court of Maryland) shaped Phil’s approach to legal strategy. His keen research and persuasive writing skills, paired with his firsthand understanding of the appellate process, give him a holistic perspective on the cases and projects he manages.

Beyond his legal acumen, Phil is deeply engaged in Maryland’s business and real estate community. He has been involved with the Urban Land Institute’s Regional Land Use Leadership Institute, Leadership Montgomery’s Emerging Leaders Program, and the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce. These connections broaden his perspective and provide valuable cross-disciplinary insights that benefit his clients.

Outside his professional commitments, Phil balances his passion for the arts and the outdoors. He serves as the Assistant Principal Cellist of the Symphony of the Potomac, performing with the ensemble since 2009. When Phil is not creating music, you can find him at one of Montgomery County’s many playgrounds with his family.

Recognition

  • Best Lawyers in America®: Selected for inclusion in the area of Land Use & Zoning (2022-2025)
  • Bethesda Magazine: Named to Top Attorneys list 2019, 2023
  • Leadership Montgomery: Emerging Leaders Program Graduate
  • Urban Land Institute: Regional Land Use Leadership Institute

Publications