Thomas J. Ragonetti

Thomas J. Ragonetti has built his reputation through more than four decades of work focused on land use, zoning, public-private issues, and regulatory challenges. His extensive background includes major projects involving planning, urban growth, and redevelopment across Colorado. Over the years, he has shaped complex development strategies and advised on significant matters involving public finance for private projects, annexation concerns, and preservation efforts.

Thomas completed a B.A., Cornell University (1971); Summa Cum Laude; Phi Beta Kappa, followed by an M.R.P., Cornell University (1973); National Science Foundation Fellow. He then earned a J.D. from Harvard Law School (1977), Cum Laude. Before becoming an attorney, he worked in city and regional planning roles for the City of Boston, the State of New York, and the United Nations, gaining experience in urban planning and public financing.

Thomas has also contributed to the academic community as an adjunct professor at both the University of Colorado at Denver and the University of Denver College of Law, teaching courses centered on land use planning and regulatory systems. His background in planning gives him a strong understanding of development patterns and community needs, which supports the strategies he delivers for complicated zoning and land use issues.

Thomas J. Ragonetti continues to bring insight, planning experience, and seasoned judgment to matters involving development, land regulation, and governance. Thomas has been recognized with honors, including Best Lawyers in America: Real Estate Law; Land Use and Zoning Law (2006-2026), Colorado Super Lawyers List (2006-2019), and Land Use Lawyer of the Year (2015 and 2025). His achievements also include being listed in “Band One” in each of the Top Land Use, Real Estate, Hotels and Leisure Lawyers in Chambers USA – Colorado. Additional recognition includes Denver Business Journal Who’s Who, the Denver Business Journal “Power Book,” and the 2014 Corporate International Magazine Global Award “Land Use Law-Attorney of the Year in Colorado,” along with an “AV” rating from Martindale-Hubbell.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Otten Johnson Robinson Neff + Ragonetti PC
• Member, Colorado Bar Association
• Member, Denver Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association

Licensed State

• Colorado

Education

• Harvard Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Cornell University
  Major Research Paper (MRP)
• Cornell University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  

Awards & Badges