SAN FRANCISCO -- Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis LLP, a leading California business and real estate law firm, announces the addition of Raymond M. Buddie as a partner in the firm's San Francisco office.

Buddie joins Allen Matkins' construction practice group. His experience includes litigating complex construction issues and resolving construction-related disputes. Over the past 23 years, he has been recognized as a leader in pursuing and settling major claims for some of the largest commercial contractors.

"Ray's depth of experience in the construction industry is unparalleled," said John Gamble, operating partner of Allen Matkins' San Francisco office. "He will play an integral part in serving the diverse needs of our real estate clients and in expanding our construction law practice."

Buddie has been a frequent lecturer to design professionals, contractors, insurance companies, and professional associations on legal issues, including loss prevention and liens. He has also served in the public sector for more than sixteen years as the Chairman (1997-1998) and Member (1994-2005) of the Marin County Planning Commission, Mayor (1991-1992) and Vice Mayor (1990-1991) of the City of Sausalito, Member of the Marin Transportation Authority (1991-1992), Council Member for the City of Sausalito (1988-1992), Vice Chairman for the Sausalito Planning Commission (1986-1988) and Director of the Sausalito Foundation (1986-present).

Buddie spent the first nine years of his career working in the construction industry, where he gained experience working as a surveyor, a structural engineer, and a member of the project management team for a major commercial construction company.

He was formerly a partner with the law firm of Peckar & Abramson.