Hinckley Allen Partner John H. Sokul, Jr. has been recognized in the NH Business Review’s 2026 Business Excellence Awards in the Business and Professional Services (Large) category, recognizing more than three decades of work shaping transformative development projects and public-private partnerships across New Hampshire.
A member of Hinckley Allen’s Executive Committee, John has built one of New Hampshire’s leading commercial real estate, land use, and development practices. He represents developers, owners, retailers, investors, lenders, and municipalities, guiding complex projects from concept to completion and bringing together diverse stakeholders to find practical paths forward.
John’s influence can be seen in several prominent developments across New Hampshire. At Tuscan Village in Salem, he has served as development counsel throughout the transformation of the former Rockingham Park racetrack into a 4.2 million-square-foot mixed-use destination. He also leads Hinckley Allen’s representation of the developer undertaking the redevelopment of the historic Hampton Beach Casino property and has helped structure the public-private partnership supporting The Ridge in Rochester.
His leadership also extends beyond individual projects. As New Hampshire confronts one of the most significant housing shortages in its history, he has emerged as a respected voice on the evolving legal framework governing commercial and residential development. Through his writing and presentations on recent housing legislation, he has helped developers, municipalities, lenders, and property owners understand the practical implications of sweeping changes to the state’s zoning laws. He also advocates for innovative infrastructure financing tools, including tax increment financing districts, special assessment districts, and public-private development agreements, that allow communities to accommodate growth while responsibly funding the infrastructure necessary to support it.
John also contributes his leadership within Hinckley Allen and throughout the New Hampshire community. A former Chair of the firm’s Real Estate and Retail Practice Groups, he mentors younger attorneys and helps guide firm strategy as a member of the Executive Committee. He serves on the Board of Directors of Southeast New Hampshire Habitat for Humanity and has previously held leadership roles with the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, City of Concord committees and the Concord YMCA.
The annual Business Excellence Awards have recognized New Hampshire business leaders for their achievements, leadership and contributions to the state’s business community since 2003. Recipients will be honored with a reception and ceremony on October 8.
