Marcos “Mark” Tarango
DTO Law

Marcos “Mark” Tarango, a founding partner at Los Angeles-based DTO Law, has more than 25 years of in-house and AmLaw 100 law firm experience, handling a broad range of hospitality-related commercial, corporate, and lending transactions. Before co-founding DTO Law, he served as managing counsel for the Toyota Motor Credit Corporation for 14 years. Tarango is a thought leader on legal efficiencies, resulting in cost-savings for clients, and he teaches as an adjunct at UCLA Law School, where he co-developed the school’s Corporate In-House Clinic.

Tell us about your professional experiences in the industry – what is your area of expertise, and why has your company decided to designate you as an ARDA VIP?

I was designated as an ARDA VIP by DTO because of my background and experience within the timeshare industry. I was trained in hospitality and timeshare work at “Big Law” and, throughout my career, I have advised clients in the timeshare industry on vacation ownership structuring, acquisitions and dispositions of timeshare projects, financing transactions, and federal and state regulatory issues. Additionally, I advise clients on condominiums, travel/exchange clubs, and mixed-use projects.

What do you hope to gain from and/or contribute to VIP Membership?

As a member, my goal is to connect with other industry professionals who all share the same commitment to seeing continued growth and otherwise having a positive impact on the timeshare industry. I look forward to future events and conferences and staying abreast of key industry topics, receiving market intelligence, and networking with other ARDA members and decision-makers. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute as a speaker for an ARDA educational session or meeting.

What recent developments at your organization should other ARDA members be aware of?

Recently, we reviewed and provided analysis to ARDA members regarding the newly enacted California Debt Collection Licensing Act (SB 908) concerning whether, and to what extent, the licensure requirements would apply to ARDA members. Also, I am excited to share that DTO is in growth mode. In July of last year, we expanded our reach to the East Coast with the launch of our New York office, where we welcomed three new attorneys. We now have 18 attorneys, with offices in Los Angeles, Silicon Valley, and New York, and we are aiming for future expansion in Chicago and Miami. I’m also pleased to share that we were voted one of the “Best Law Firms – 2023” by U.S. News & World Report; and we received the “2022 Excellence in Diversity Award” from the California Lawyers Association.

What is your favorite place to travel, and why?

Hawaii. There are amazing properties spread throughout the islands, and nothing beats the weather and the natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands. As a bonus, the kids love traveling there too!