September 2019
RICHNER Thank you to our sponsors:
richnerlive.com VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO LLP
liherald.com
Labor & Employment Counselors
Herald Community Newspapers and RichnerLIVE present the
Top Lawyers of Long Island Special Section, a guide for our readers and
businesses to find the best legal guidance for when they need it most.
The community was invited to nominate lawyers based on their
outstanding expertise in different legal areas of practice. These
attorneys strive for excellence and give back to their communities in
countless ways.
In addition to the various areas of expertise, we honored those
attorneys who have achieved great success before reaching 40,
philanthropic firms, top legal firms, based on employee size,
and the best Pro Bono project of the year with special recognition.
On September 25, we celebrated their success at the
Herald’s Premier Top Lawyers of Long Island Awards Gala at
The Carltun in Eisenhower Park.
S-2 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Grassi Is Proud to Sponsor the
“Top Lawyers of Long Island”
Congratulations to the Attorneys
Being Honored
For their Professional Expertise
and Community Service
The advisors and accountants of Grassi have
partnered with the LI legal community for over forty
years. Our Trust and Estate professionals assist
executors and trustees, providing administration
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tax compliance, estate and income tax planning,
and court-prescribed accountings. Our Litigation
and Valuation experts provide forensic accounting,
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commercial damage calculations, expert testimony,
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Lisa Rispoli, CPA, AEP, TEP
Partner, Trust & Estate Services Leader
t: 516-336-2444 e: [email protected]
Sareena Malik Sawhney, MBA, CFE, MAFF, CAMS
Principal; Fraud, Forensic & Litigation Services Leader
t: 212-223-5029 e: [email protected]
Howard Fielstein, CPA/ABV/CFF, CFE, CIRA, CTP, ASA, CDBV
Partner, Fraud, Forensic & Litigation Services
t: 516-918-5918 e: [email protected]
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S-4 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
YOUR COLLEAGUES AT
congratulateMAIDENBAUM & STERNBERG, LLP
SHALOM S. MAIDENBAUM, ESQ.,
I LY S E G. S T E R N B E R G, E S Q. ,
AMY G. MADMON, ESQ.
FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AS
2019 PREMIERE TOP LAWYERS
OF LONG ISLAND.
Shalom S. Maidenbaum, Esq.
Ilyse G. Sternberg, Esq. Amy G. Madmon, Esq.
Their outstanding expertise has helped
thousands of Nassau County Homeowners
successfully reduce their property taxes.
132 Spruce Street • Cedarhurst, New York 11516 • phone 516-569-8100 • fax 516-569-8105 • [email protected] 1055297
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-5
Jothy NareNdraN is a partner in Jaspan Schlesinger’s Banking also received Touro’s Public Service Attorney of the Year Award in April
Jothy NareNdraN and Financial Services Practice Group. She represents institutional 2009. Jothy is also a recipient of the Long Island Business News’ 50
lenders in financing commercial properties in transactions that Most Influential Women Award.
Partner, Jaspan Schlesinger LLP include acquisition loans, construction loans, note purchases and Jothy serves on the Nassau County Bar Association’s Real Property
sales, equipment financing, leasehold financing and multi-lender Law Committee, and volunteers with the mentoring program and pro
aWard WiNNer participation/syndicated financing. bono clinic for seniors. She is also a member of the New York State and
Jothy is a board member of the Board of Review for the New York American Bar Associations.
Area Of Practice State Board of Review of the Building Code for the Southern Region. An active supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island for
She is also an adjunct professor at Touro Law College. more than 10 years, she was the recipient of its Presidential Award at
BaNkiNg & FiNaNce She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the New York their 2007 Presidential Gala.
Institute of Technology in 1987, a Master of Business Education She recently was appointed a member of the Board of Directors
from Hofstra University in 1992, and a Juris Doctor from the Jacob D. and Board President of Spectrum Designs Foundation Ltd., a not-
Fuschberg Law Center of Touro College in 1996. She is now involved for-profit corporation that provides employment and training for
in the Touro Alumni Association, assisting those young adults currently individuals with autism.
in law school. She was Alumni of the Month in September 2008 and
Q&a What is one change you’d like to see Why did you choose a career in the represented the real estate developer I worked
in your industry? legal profession? for and his intelligence and ability to navigate
I would like to see more flexibility You do not necessarily need to practice and negotiate a commercial real estate deal
for individuals raising a family while law to benefit from having a law degree, made me strive to be like him.
practicing law. The profession of law but having the degree opens up many
doesn’t have to be in an office 9 a.m.-8 opportunities in various fields. What is your favorite charity?
p.m. The career has the ability to permit Spectrum Designs Foundation. I am the
professionals to work and complete Who influenced/inspired you the president of the board. The organization’s
tasks remotely. most in your career? mission is to help individuals with autism lead
Norman Wachtel was the attorney that full and productive lives through the world of
work.
edward J. LoBeLLo is the Chair of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, “Examiners in Bankruptcy Cases: A Guide for Examiners, Courts and
P.C.’s Bankruptcy & Business Reorganization Department. He also Practitioners,” in conjunction with the Association of the Bar of the City
practices in the Corporate Finance and Litigation & Dispute Resolution of New York.
groups located in Garden City and in Manhattan. Edward concentrates Prior to joining the firm, Edward was a partner in the New York
his practice on business restructuring, bankruptcy reorganizations, City office of a national law firm where he represented all major
work-outs, corporate finance, creditors’ rights and related litigation. constituents in bankruptcy cases, including debtors in possession,
For 15 consecutive years, Edward has been rated “AV Preeminent” creditors’ committees, committee members, institutional lenders,
by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest level of professional excellence. trade creditors, landlords, insurance companies, equipment lessors,
From 2012-2018, he was recognized by New York Super Lawyers. asset purchasers, and preference defendants. Edward has represented
In 2018, he authored the Local Bankruptcy Rules Toolkit (Eastern clients in numerous large and significant Chapter 11 cases, including
District of New York) published by Thomson Reuters’ Practical Law. Chrysler LLC, General Motors Corp., Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.,
The online publication compiles key resources for attorneys in the Compania Mexicana de Aviacion, S.A. de C.V., Delta Air Lines, Inc.,
practice of bankruptcy law in the Eastern District of New York, including Solutia, Inc., A.P. Green Industries, Inc., US Gen New England, Inc. and
applicable statutes, rules, court procedures, and practice notes. In Global Crossing, Ltd., among others.
addition, he recently co-authored a book published by Westlaw,
edWard J. LoBeLLo Q&a What is your proudest achievement? What is one change you’d like to see in your
My proudest achievement is my industry?
Partner, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. family. I would like to see the legal profession and
the business community emphasize having
aWard WiNNer What is the best advice for someone legal fees determined by value added rather
considering a career in law? than by the billable hour.
Area Of Practice My advice for someone considering
a career in the law is to make sure What is your favorite place to visit on Long
BaNkruptcy that you get exposure to as many Island?
types of law as possible so that you My favorite place to visit on Long Island are
may discover where your interests and the Long Island beaches.
talents may lie.
IrvIN Brum’s practice focuses on the representation of Advancement for Commerce, Industry and Technology (ACIT), which
entrepreneurs, high technology, and emerging growth companies is one of Long Island’s largest business development organizations,
in connection with mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, initial and Blackman Plumbing.
public offerings and debt financings. He represents major lending He is frequently sought after by the media for his insights, and has
institutions in connection with their lending activities and is known for been quoted by the New York Times, Newsday, Long Island Business
longstanding client relationships, personally servicing some of the News and other publications. Irvin has been consistently named by
firm’s largest public and private clients. Long Island Business News as one of Long Island’s top corporate and
A senior partner at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C., he is the securities lawyers in its Who’s Who in Law section. He has also been
chairman of the firm’s Corporate and Securities Department, the honored as the winner of the prestigious ExecuLeaders Award for
largest such practice group on Long Island. He is also a member of Excellence in Law and LIBN’s Leadership in Law Award.
the Corporate Governance Practice Group. For more than 30 years, he has been a sought after lecturer on a
Irvin is a member of the board of directors of the Long Island wide variety of topics including mergers and acquisitions, initial public
Capital Alliance, the nation’s oldest venture capital group, and serves offerings, venture capital, ESOPs, succession planning and other
as its general counsel. He also serves on the boards of directors of corporate and securities law topics.
irviN Brum Q&a What is your proudest achievement? What is the best advice for someone everything as a zero-sum game where their
Building a successful career while considering a career in law? client can only win if someone else’s client
Partner, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C. helping raise four wonderful children A career in law is both rewarding and loses. The good news is that most attorneys
who have become successful in demanding, but you can absolutely succeed realize there are better ways to serve their
aWard WiNNer their own right. The satisfaction I without giving up your principles or your clients.
have received from whatever I have humanity.
Area Of Practice accomplished in my career is far Why did you choose a career in the legal
outweighed by the satisfaction, pride What is one change you’d like profession?
corporate and joy I receive in watching each of my to see in your industry? I wanted to work in an intellectually
four children succeed in raising families More collegiality among attorneys demanding environment while at the same
and building careers of their own. would be helpful. Although most attorneys time deal with people on issues that are often
are professional, too many attorneys see central to their lives.
Pegalis Law Group, LLC represents people suffering as a result of medical
errors and catastrophic personal injury.We obtain justice for our clients after
hospitals,doctors,medicalpersonnel,constructioncompanies,orautomobile
drivers commit avoidable errors that cause our clients life-altering harm.We
are known for discovering avoidable negligent acts even in the most complex
cases. We continue to obtain some of the largest verdicts and settlements
in New York State history for victims of negligence and substandard care.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR VERY OWN 1 Hollow Lane, Suite 107 Lake Success, NY 11042
www.pegalislawgroup.com
ROBERT V. FALLARINO
FOR RECEIVING THE 2019 HERALD
TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND AWARD
S-6 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
AllAn H. CoHen AllAn H. CoHen is the Office Managing Partner of the Long statewide publications. Most recently, he was awarded the Champion
Island Office of Nixon Peabody, an international law firm with 16 offices for Children and Families Award by Variety Child Learning Center. In
Office Managing Partner – Long Island and over 600 attorneys. He represents a variety of companies, ranging 2018, he was named to the Long Island Press Power List of the 50
Nixon Peabody LLP from large public entities, to mid-sized closely held and family-owned Most Influential People on Long Island. He also received the 2015
business, to technology-based startups. Cornerstone Award by the Lawyers’ Alliance for New York, for his pro
AWArD WInner Allan dedicates much of his practice to mergers and acquisitions, bono work for the Harlem Dowling-West Side Center for Children &
including buy-side work and sell-side work to strategic and private Family Services. In 2014, he received the Leadership in the Law Award
Area Of Practice equity acquirors. Allan also works with emerging companies in the by the Long Island Business News.
formation and organization of their businesses and seed, angel and VC He was also selected as a Long Island Pulse “2013 Legal Eagle”
CorporAte financings. He is involved in a wide range of industries, including health in the area of Corporate, Contracts & Business Law, based on peer
care, manufacturing and distribution, food and beverage, medical nomination. Allan has been selected for inclusion in New York Super
device, life sciences and biotechnology, and consumer products. Lawyers in numerous years, based on peer-review surveys. He is
Allan distinguishes himself by his adeptness at handling his clients’ also a past recipient of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s MS
varied business needs and providing the type of outside counsel that Leadership Award, and has served as Chair of the American Heart
businesses would expect from an in-house general counsel. His clients Association Long Island Heart Ball and an Honorary Chair of the Family
view him as the “quarterback,” ensuring that not only their business law, and Children’s Association Awards Committee.
but also their employment, litigation, intellectual property, regulatory Allan is a graduate of Binghamton State University and Columbia
and other legal needs are met. Law School, at which he was named a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar.
Allan has received much recognition from Long Island-based and
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career
Being named managing partner of in the legal profession?
Nixon Peabody’s Long Island office. I got hooked by “To Kill a Mockingbird” and
the profession’s selfless dedication to justice.
What is your best advice for someone
considering a career in law? Who influenced/inspired you
the most in your career?
Focus your studies not just on the
law, but also business and psychology. My father. He didn’t go to college, but was
So much of being a good lawyer has intent on ensuring that his children had the
nothing to do with what’s in the law resources to do whatever they wanted to do.
books.
AdAm P. SilverS serves as Managing Partner of Ruskin Moscou mutual business issues, Adam has helped create a stimulating,
Faltischek, P.C., and is a member of the firm’s Corporate & Securities rewarding environment for attendees. In recognition of his many
Department and Intellectual Property and Technology Group. Adam’s accomplishments, Long Island Business News honored Adam with its
long record of accomplishments as a sophisticated corporate and prestigious 40 Under 40 award in 2006.
securities attorney resulted in his being named a partner of the law A member of the Nassau County Bar Association, Adam has
firm in 2003; he is one of the youngest associates named partner there. lectured frequently before the Suffolk County Bar Association; he
Adam regularly counsels both private and publicly-traded is also a featured lecturer at CLE programs on topics ranging from
companies. He has successfully handled a wide range of complex corporate governance, executive compensation, securities matters as
transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, public offerings, well as intellectual property and software licensing issues. Adam
private placements and venture capital financings, joint venture has written articles published in the firm’s Corporate and Securities
and partnership agreements, as well as software licensing and Update.
development agreements, among other areas. Adam has been actively involved with Child Abuse Prevention
In 2003, Adam cofounded the CFO Roundtable, a by-invitation- Services and the American Heart Association, having chaired their
only monthly gathering of Long Island’s top CFOs. In guiding this annual Long Island Heart Ball Gala. He also serves on the Board
new organization, at which CFOs share best practices and discuss Supervisory Committee of Bethpage Federal Credit Union.
ADAm p. SIlverS Q&A What is the best advice for someone would caution a new newly minted attorney up through the ranks with also served as
considering a career in law? against allowing their career from becoming examples of how to succeed. We all share the
Managing Partner, all-consuming. Always remember your priori- same values which translate into a client-cen-
Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C. The best advice I can give someone ties in life – family and friends. The work will tric focus in what we do. Those close relation-
who is presently considering a career always be there. ships and values are what make our firm so
AWArD WInner as an attorney is to be passionate successful and strong.
and focused about their career, but Who influenced/inspired you
Area Of Practice ultimately seek balance in your life. The the most in your career? What is your favorite place to visit
life of a lawyer, especially in private on Long Island?
CorporAte practice, is rarely an easy one. It can My partners did. The senior partners in my
be unpredictable and unforgiving, but firm hired me, taught me, mentored me and Montauk. We’ve had a number of great
ultimately can be very rewarding, both groomed me. They were and still are outstand- family vacations there.
personally and professionally. But I ing role models. Those partners who I came
dermond THomAS has years of experience advising sovereign two Am Law 100 firms where he first developed his deep corporate
nations and some of the most recognized companies across the transactional experience.
globe. He brings a valuable business perspective to all matters he Dermond was recently re-elected to his third term as a Trustee in
handles at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP. Dermond has the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream. The first African-American
helped sovereign nations and businesses achieve their goals from ever to serve in this position, Dermond has focused on fostering
both a legal and a strategic point of view and understands what it good and transparent government, maintaining the Village’s integrity,
takes to get results. cultivating new ways to enhance the lives of residents, and facilitating
Dermond has advised clients on matters including mergers and the use of Village resources to improve recreational programming.
acquisitions, divestitures, corporate and public finance, commercial He graduated from Columbia University School of Law, where he
agreements, corporate strategy, implementation of business was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar.
development initiatives, shareholder engagement, and corporate Dermond is an Adjunct Professor at Hofstra University’s Maurice
governance. Prior to joining CMM, Dermond was Director, Corporate A. Deane School of Law and served as a lecturer in corporate ethics
Counsel, and Assistant Secretary at a multibillion-dollar industrial at Columbia University School of Law. He is on the Board of Directors
distributor, where he handled a variety of corporate legal matters and of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County and was formerly on the Board of
governance initiatives. Dermond spent the early years of his career at Directors, Nassau County Interim Finance Authority (NIFA).
DermonD tHomAS Q&A What is your proudest achievement? should do their best to ensure that the issues Why did you choose a career in the legal
I am very proud that I have become they choose to address and the types of profession?
Of Counsel clients they choose to represent are consistent
Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP an effective advocate for my clients with their own passions and values. I chose a career in the legal profession
due to the experience and expertise because it gives me an opportunity to be
AWArD WInner that I have obtained over many years of What is one change you’d like to an advocate while performing intellectually
practice. see in your industry? challenging work.
Area Of Practice
What is the best advice for someone I’d like to see corporate lawyers lend their
CorporAte considering a career in law? expertise to small businesses and non-profits
on a more frequent basis.
Anyone considering a career in law
Herald Community Newspapers Selects the 2019 Top SCBA Members on Long Island
A celebration for attorneys and firms that embody
excellence in their special area of legal practice and
outstanding community involvement
Civil Rights: Joseph G. Miizio
Debt: Leslie H. Tayne
Divorce/Mediation: Jill Altarac, Jerome A. Wisselman
Elder Law: Melissa Negrin-Wiener
Trusts & Estates: Patricia Galteri and Robert J. Cimino
Labor & Employment: Sima Ali and Arthur Yermash
Litigation: Frederick C. Johs
Tax: Karen J. Tenenbaum
SPECIAL AWARDS:
Pro Bono Project of the Year: Joseph G. Milizio
Top Boutique Firm: Vishnick Govern Milizio LLP
SCBA’s Board of Directors and Suffolk Academy of Law Officers
Would like to congratulate these outstanding members!
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-7
TOP
LAWYERS
TOP
FIRM
We’re thrilled to be recognized as a 2019
Top Legal Firm, and we celebrate all the
attorneys who made it possible, including
our Top Lawyer winners: Allan Cohen,
Richa Naujoks, and alum Tony Dulgerian.
Allan Cohen Richa Naujoks Tony Dulgerian
50 Jericho Quadrangle
Jericho, NY
nixonpeabody.com
@Nixonpeabodyllp
1055028
S-8 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Joseph G. Milizio JosEpH G. miLizio is the Managing Partner of Vishnick New York Steering Committee; and a longtime supporter of the Long
McGovern Milizio LLP and the founder of its groundbreaking LGBTQ Island Crisis Center Pride for Youth initiative, which named him “2017
Managing Partner Representation Practice, one of the first in the nation. He also heads the Person of the Year.”
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP firm’s Business and Transactional Law and Exit Planning for Business Under his leadership, VMM engages in numerous pro bono
Owners Practices. and community outreach projects in support of LGBTQ civil rights.
AWARD WiNNeR Joseph is a trusted advisor and provides legal counsel, Recently, these have included sponsoring CUNY Pridefest; Queens
representation, and education to the LGBTQ community in a wide College’s LGBTQ “Train the Trainer” programs and GLASA (Gay, Lesbian
Area Of Practice variety of civil rights issues, including workplace discrimination, real and Straight Alliance) club; volunteer advising and lecturing in Queens
estate discrimination, marriage equality, adoption rights, and other College’s LGBTQ Studies minor; and cosponsoring HRC’s annual NY
Civil RiGhts matters. He is the co-chair of the Nassau County Bar Association Golf Outing & Dinner fundraiser.
LGBTQ Committee; a member of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? on becoming the best in your chosen field. That and he taught me to be a good lawyer and
Being the father of three very means having a well-rounded background how to relate to clients with compassion and
wonderful children. I have watched them which allows one to pull from experiences, understanding.
grow into caring, responsible adults with but it also means to focus on the one aspect
great lives, I learn something from them of the law that will make you the recognized What is your favorite place to visit on Long
every day and I hope that they can say professional in your area of practice. Island?
the same about me. Any small town or village. There’s no better
Who influenced/inspired you the way to gauge the pulse of the economy
What is the best advice for someone most in your career? than to visit a local village, see what retailers
considering a career in law? As a young attorney, Ed Dweck, a lawyer people are patronizing and what they are
As the world around us becomes with significantly more experience, befriended doing for entertainment. I’m constantly
more complex, it’s necessary to focus me. We subsequently became law partners impressed by the Island’s revitalization efforts.
Edward L. LiEbErman has been in private law practice misdemeanor and felony level cases. He became a senior trial attorney
specializing in Criminal Defense Law since 1982. His education and in the County Court and Special Investigation Bureaus and was also
career path has continuously been focused on the practice of criminal Chief of the Civil Rights Unit.
law with an emphasis on successful courtroom advocacy. Having fulfilled his term commitment to the District Attorney’s
Edward entered the Hofstra University School of Law where he office, Edward brought his advocacy skills and criminal law
was selected to an internship at the Nassau County District Attorney’s background to the criminal defense bar. Through the years he has tried
Office. After receiving his Juris Doctor degree, he continued his formal misdemeanor and serious felony cases involving all classifications of
legal education at New York University School of Law and received a charges.
Master of Laws Degree in Criminal Justice. Currently the Mayor of Sea Cliff, Edward is a former member of the
While attending NYU he was appointed as an Assistant District Board Of Directors of Life’s WORC and the Long Island Urban League
Attorney in Nassau County. During his tenure as an Assistant and past District Governor of Lions Clubs International.
District Attorney from 1978-1982 he prosecuted and tried multiple
eDWARD l. liebeRMAN Q&A Why did you choose a career in the Who influenced/inspired you the most in What is your favorite place to visit
legal profession? your career? on Long Island?
Principal From my earliest years I wanted to Denis Dillon, the Nassau County District My favorite place is Sea Cliff, where I am the
Edward L. Lieberman, P.C. become an attorney, in essence to Attorney for whom I served under, influenced mayor.
follow the profession of my maternal and inspired me the most in my career.
AWARD WiNNeR grandfather who was also my
namesake. What is your proudest achievement?
Area Of Practice My proudest achievement was early in my
career when I was named the Chief of the
CRiMiNAl Civil Rights Unit of the Nassau County District
Attorney’s Office.
leslie h. tAyNe
LEsLiE H. TaynE, Esq. is an award-winning financial attorney and international banks and credit agencies for loans, lines of credit,
Founder/Head Attorney author of “Life & Debt.” Leslie is the founder and managing director of credit cards, and student loans. Leslie is frequently sought out for her
Tayne Law Group, P.C. Tayne Law Group, P.C., a law firm headquartered in New York dedicated expertise on financial, credit and debt topics in the media; and as a
to debt solutions. speaker, she regularly provides insight and strategies regarding all
AWARD WiNNeR She has over 20 years of experience in consumer and business areas of debt and credit-related solutions to outlets like the Huffington
financial debt solutions, which include negotiations with large Post, Yahoo Finance, US News and World Report, MSN, among others.
Area Of Practice
Q&A What is the best advice for someone then adding the debt resolution piece makes it law school, I had an opportunity to see the
Debt considering a career in law? even more challenging. Many people assume benefits I could provide to clients, and I always
Law always changes, and so does all debt resolution firms are scams and lack wanted to do something where I could help
your career. Be brave enough to trust to really commit to the process. people.
explore opportunities and be bold What I would like to see more of is
enough to network and get out there consistent regulation of fly-by-night What is your favorite charity?
to meet colleagues and help build and debt scams and pop-up companies who I am on the board for both the Guide Dog
perpetuate the practice of law. circumvent the law with new ideas regularly. Foundation and America’s VetDogs and am
Always remember to be fair, honest The reality is that more legitimate firms are very passionate about the work I do with them.
and giving because you will lead out there doing the right thing, but the few bad I regularly foster puppies who are going to be
always with your reputation. As for apples spoil the bunch. trained to be service dogs for those in need. To
dealing with clients, what you’ll need date, I’ve probably had over 50 dogs and love
the most is patience. Why did you choose a career the mission to help those less fortunate with
in the legal profession? an opportunity to live life to the fullest with a
What is one change you’d like to see It was always a profession I admired. My service dog. Not only do I get to nurture and
in your industry? father was an attorney, and I watched how help the dogs, but I get to give them all of my
Debt resolution law is an industry people respected him and admired his skills love knowing they will do the same for their
that’s often misunderstood. Given the and intellect. I just knew I was going to be an person in need to improve their quality of life.
stereotype of attorneys themselves and attorney. Later on, when I actually made it to
JiLL aLTarac is the founding partner in The Altarac Law Firm. She A strong advocate for her clients, Jill works with them to obtain
received her B.A. in Psychology, graduating with high distinction, from the most favorable outcome in a cost-effective and expedited fashion.
the University of Michigan in 1992. In 1995, Jill received her law degree She makes certain that their rights are protected throughout the
from Brooklyn Law School and was subsequently admitted to practice matrimonial proceedings.
in New York in 1996. Since then Jill has concentrated solely in the field Jill has served as a distinguished lecturer for the National Business
of matrimonial and family law. Institute, and New York Life Insurance and the Professional Speaker’s
Jill was accepted as a member of the American Inns of the Court, Bureau, Inc.
an organization that consists of the most pristine matrimonial attorneys While Jill understands that all children’s financial interests should
in Long Island. She is recognized as a specialist in matrimonial law, be protected throughout divorce proceedings, she is especially
serving as a member of the Nassau County Bar Association, its Family cognizant that the rights of special needs children must be addressed,
Law Committee and Custody and Family Law Subcommittee; the New on a case by case basis, so that their necessary services are maintained
York State Bar Association/Matrimonial Family Law Committee; and and continue. She makes certain that the financial provisions, as set
the American Bar Association Matrimonial/Family Law Committee. forth in the legal document, are tailored to the individual child’s needs.
She is also a member of the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association.
Jill AltARAC Q&A What is the best advice for someone What is one change you’d like to see in your What is your favorite charity?
choosing a career in law? industry? North Shore Autism Circle.
Founding Partner Prior to choosing a field in which to I would like to see more civility between the
The Altarac Law Firm, PLLC specialize, make certain that you are attorneys.
interested in the area of law selected.
AWARD WiNNeR Why did you choose a career in the legal
Area Of Practice profession?
I enjoy being in a position in which I can
DivoRCe, MeDiAtioN & MAtRiMoNy assist others through difficult circumstances.
Kim ciEsinsKi has focused exclusively on Divorce and Family Law Families and the Law, and as a member of the Hofstra University
for over 25 years. She represents clients in matters including custody, Women in Leadership Initiative she mentors young women.
parenting time schedules, spousal maintenance, child support, Kim assists in resolving highly contentious matrimonial cases
distribution of assets, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, as before trial as a Special Master for the Nassau County Supreme Court.
well as post-judgment proceedings. She now focuses her practice Having a keen interest in social justice, Kim is a graduate and member
on collaborative divorce, mediation and negotiated settlements as of the Energeia Partnership at Molloy College. She is also an Adjunct
alternatives to litigation for all issues, to offer families an expedient, Professor at Hofstra Law School.
cost-effective and positive option for resolving their issues and Kim has co-authored “Stress Free Divorce, Volume 3” to raise
restructuring from a nuclear to a bi-nuclear family. Divorce does not public awareness about the collaborative divorce process. She is a
have to result in destruction! frequent presenter and radio guest, as well as a quoted source in the
Kim, who earned a Juris Doctor from Hofstra University School of press. Among her many accolades, Kim has been designated a “2017-
Law in 1989, is certified in mediation from the Ackerman Institute for 2019 Super Lawyer” and has received an AV rating from Martindale-
the Family and trained in Collaborative Interdisciplinary Practice from Hubbell Peer Review Ratings, the highest possible rating in both legal
KiM M. CiesiNsKi the New York Association of Collaborative Professionals. Kim serves ability and ethical standards.
on the Advisory Board for Hofstra Law School’s Center for Children,
Founding Partner Q&A What is your proudest achievement? What is the best advice for someone Who influenced/inspired you the
Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq., PLLC Building my law practice while considering a career in law? most in your career?
raising three daughters as a single Maintaining work/life balance is something Judge Gail Prudenti..
AWARD WiNNeR mom. you must always be mindful of.
What is your favorite charity?
Area Of Practice Why did you choose a career in Girls, Inc. and The Red Cross.
the legal profession?
DivoRCe, MeDiAtioN & MAtRiMoNy I became a lawyer to help people through
their darkest times.
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-9
JASPAN SCHLESINGER LLP
C O N G R AT U L AT E S
FIRM PARTNERS
JOTHY NARENDRAN AND JESSICA BAQUET
ON BEING NAMED
HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND
Jothy Narendran, Partner Jessica M. Baquet, Partner
Banking & Finance Top Lawyer Rising Star Under 40
Their professional excellence is recognized
every day by our colleagues, clients, and friends
in the Long Island legal community.
Your best interests. Our best thinking.
Garden City Office Suffern Office 1054422
300 Garden City Plaza, 5th Floor, Garden City, NY 11530 56 Park Avenue, Suffern, NY 10901
Tel: (516) 746-8000 Tel: (845) 357-0036
S-10 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Jerome A. WisselmAn, esq., founder of Wisselman, Harounian & handle complex financial issues. Jerome created and conducts
Associates, P.C. in 1976, has maintained high standards of professional ongoing legal workshops for mental health professionals, enabling
integrity and achievement for over 40 years in practice of matrimonial them to better assist patients going through matrimonial litigation, and
and family law. He places emphasis on providing excellent client service he also created support groups for people going through separation
and delivering smart solutions and successful results for his clients. or divorce, as well as post-divorce issues held on a monthly basis, to
Recognizing the importance of having sufficient resources to discuss issues of concern in their matters.
handle complicated litigation matters, he built a firm that is named He was on the Board of Editors of the New York Family Law
as one of the Best Law Firms by US News & World Report, and he is Monthly, where he was a regular contributor from 2006-2015, and was
named as one of the Best Lawyers in New York by The Wall Street on the Board of Editors of the Matrimonial Strategist from 2015-2017.
Journal. In addition, he has been designated as a Top 100 New York He has also lectured on grandparental matters, has written on these
Metro Super Lawyer. issues for the New York State Bar Association, and has contributed to
His background in accounting and tax law helps him effectively legislative efforts in this area of law.
Jerome A. WisselmAN Q&A What is your proudest achievement? in law can be like. Seek an internship with a law give me the opportunity to help clients with
Building a formidable matrimonial law firm while in college; experience it firsthand, and important issues.
Managing Partner firm that enables us to provide first rate determine if it’s a good match for you.
Wisselman, Harounian & Associates P.C. representation for clients going through What is one change you’d like to see in your
one of the most difficult periods in their Why did you choose a career in industry?
AWArD WiNNer lives. the legal profession? I would like to see a changed mindset by
Area Of Practice Having begun my professional career in adversaries to work together to help clients
What is the best advice for someone accounting, I soon felt that law could be more through issues, while still protecting their clients’
Divorce, meDiAtioN & mAtrimoNy considering a career in law? dynamic and more meaningful. While both interests, rather than fighting each other and
Don’t wait to experience what a career assist clients, I felt that a law career would being unnecessarily combative.
lynn m. BroWn began her career at Meyer, Suozzi, English & held corporations and business professionals.
Klein, P.C. in 2000 as an associate and was promoted to Of Counsel in Ms. Brown is a founding member of the firm’s Education Law
2003. Ms. Brown has been involved in all aspects of state and federal practice, an outgrowth of her own experiences as the parent of a
litigation, with particular emphasis on complex commercial disputes, special-needs child. She routinely appears before the Committees
including contract and partnership disputes, corporate break-ups, on Special Education of numerous Long Island school districts, and
antitrust, intellectual property and fraud actions, matters concerning in connection with impartial (due process) hearings, securing timely
wrongful termination, restrictive covenants, unfair competition and educational evaluations, services and accommodations for learning-
other business torts, as well as construction law matters, defamation disabled children under federal and state law. Ms. Brown also
cases, landlord-tenant disputes, and professional liability and appears on behalf of students in connection with disciplinary matters,
malpractice claims. She has handled traditional litigation matters on including long and short-term suspensions. Ms. Brown frequently
the trial and appellate levels, and arbitrations and mediations. Ms. gives presentations to parent and professional groups, including PTAs,
Brown has represented a major tobacco company, publicly-traded regarding the rights of children with disabilities.
and multi-million dollar corporations, as well as numerous closely-
lyNN m. BroWN Q&A What is your proudest achievement? What is the best advice for someone What is one change you’d like to
Raising my severely learning considering a career in law? see in your industry?
Of Counsel disabled child to be an independent Try to maintain a healthy work/life balance. It’s a change I have seen — the recognition
Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. adult. He went from a child unable to Put everything you’ve got into your career, but that there can be too much time spent at work.
learn the alphabet, to going to college, try to turn work off as you step back into your Families of lawyers have reaped the benefits
AWArD WiNNer living on his own and having both home. Your epitaph should not be, “I wish I had that didn’t exist when I first began practicing
friends and a fiancé. A lot of hard work more billable hours.” law, especially for women lawyers.
Area Of Practice has paid off.
eDucAtioN
ronAld FAtoullAh, esq., CELA, is the founder and managing Ronald currently serves on the Executive Council of AARP New
attorney of Ronald Fatoullah & Associates, a law firm focusing on York. He is the immediate past President of the New York Chapter
Elder Law, Estate Planning and Special Needs Planning. Ronald and of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NY-NAELA) and he
his firm are known for their outstanding services to the senior citizen chaired NAELA’s Public Policy and Public Relations Committees for
and special needs communities. He is an award-winning elder law many years. He is Co-Chair of the Financial Planning and Investments
attorney who has been recognized in New York Magazine as one of Committee of the Elder Law and Special Needs Section of the New
“The New York Area’s Super Lawyers” for 11 consecutive years as well York State Bar Association (NYSBA). He also currently serves as Co-
as a 13-year inclusion as one of the “Best Lawyers” in New York. Chair of the Board of the Alzheimer’s Association LI Chapter.
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? with home care. This includes the exorbitant generations as well.
I would have to say that my proudest cost of prescription drugs. I hope to see and
roNAlD FAtoullAh, esQ. achievement is having two wonderful work toward affordable long-term options as What is your favorite charity?
sons and recently becoming the a benefit to all citizens in our great country. My own mother suffered from dementia,
Founder, Ronald Fatoullah & Associates grandfather of a beautiful little girl. It and for the last seven years of her life, she
is as if being a father and grandfather Why did you choose a career in the legal really did not recognize me. Alzheimer’s
AWArD WiNNer gives you a second chance at life. profession? disease is a progressive illness. For 20 years
When I first started college, I was interested I have served on the legal Committee of the
Area Of Practice What is the one change you would in social work because I wanted to be able to Board of the Alzheimer’s Association Long
like to see in your industry? help people, especially those individuals who Island Chapter and am currently a Co-Chair
elDer lAW As an elder law attorney that helps could not help themselves. But I transitioned of its Board of Directors. The Alzheimer’s
individuals pay for long-term care and into elder law because I felt that I could reach Association is in aggressive pursuit of a world
receive Medicaid, I see the devastating more people and have a greater impact. I without Alzheimer’s and is the world’s leading
effects of the high cost of long-term saw the law as a platform to not only help nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research,
care in nursing homes and at home individuals but to improve the lives of future providing support for family and caregivers.
melissA negrin-Wiener manages Genser Cona Elder Law’s Named by Long Island Business News as one of the “Top 50
Government Benefits Department, concentrating her practice in the Women in Business,” Melissa is the recipient of numerous prestigious
areas of asset protection, Medicaid eligibility planning, estate planning, awards and honors. These include LIBN “40 Under 40 Rising Stars
Mediation, guardianships and Veterans benefits. She supervises on Long Island” and Outstanding Pro Bono Attorney from Touro Law
preparation of Medicaid applications for nursing home care, home School. She has been featured in Long Island Business News and
health care and community benefits, resolves complex Medicaid profiled in the Suffolk Lawyer for her charitable works, including
issues, and represents families facing a reduction in Medicaid home on behalf of Senior Dreams Come True, a nonprofit run by GDGC
care hours and services. that grants wishes for low-income seniors. A frequent lecturer at
Melissa currently serves as co-chair of the Healthcare Committee professional organizations, assisted living facilities and senior citizens
of the Hauppauge Industrial Association of Long Island. She is a State groups, she has authored numerous professional articles.
Certified Court Examiner, Court Evaluator and Counsel to Guardian Melissa serves as chair of Genser Cona Charitable Events, a not-
and incapacitated persons and is accredited by the Department of for-profit organization committed to enhancing the quality of life
Veterans Affairs. She is also an Advanced Elder Law Mediator trained for the elderly, disabled and the underprivileged, among her many
by the New York Peace Institute and serves as a Mediator on the charitable efforts and community outreach.
Nassau County Bar Association Alternative Dispute Resolution Panel.
melissA NegriN-WieNer
Q&A Who influenced/inspired you the What is your favorite charity? Why did you choose a career in the legal
Partner, Genser Cona Elder Law most in your career? Senior Dreams Come True, which is the profession?
I have always been of the opinion that signature program of Genser Cona Elder Law’s Helping people has always been my
AWArD WiNNer success begins at home. I have a loving charitable initiatives. Senior Dreams Come passion. As an attorney in Elder Law and
and supportive family and growing up, True grants wishes to low income seniors on Estate Planning, I have the opportunity to do
Area Of Practice my parents always told me I could do Long Island, from granting a basic need to this every single day.
anything I put my mind to. fulfilling a lifelong dream..
elDer lAW
richA nAuJoks is a partner at Nixon Peabody LLP, focusing on companies from other countries to establish a presence in the U.S.,
corporate and securities transactions. She represents early-stage and through acquisitions, joint ventures or reincorporation in the U.S.
later stage companies in corporate transactions through the various Although industry agnostic, several of Richa’s clients are technology
stages of a business, from incorporation to capital-raising, to eventual companies, creating solutions in the artificial intelligence, big data,
exit for the founders and investors. retail tech, health tech and life sciences industries. Richa is on the
A significant portion of Richa’s work involves cross-border board of TiENY, a nonprofit organization that supports entrepreneurs by
corporate transactions, supporting early-stage and mid-size offering education, mentorship, networking and funding opportunities.
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career in including through mentoring startup founders,
Law firms are making great strides the legal profession? and creating a community where they can
richA NAuJoks in achieving greater diversity and The decision to go to law school has more connect with much-needed talent and capital.
inclusion. Our firm, for instance, to do with John Grisham and “L.A. Law” than Acumen is a global nonprofit changing the
Partner, Nixon Peabody LLP participates in the Mansfield rule, the I care to admit. However, I soon realized that way the world tackles poverty by investing in
industry gold standard that ensures what made for exciting reading or viewing was sustainable businesses, leaders and ideas.
AWArD WiNNer that women and minorities are not the kind of law I wanted to practice. The I am proud to be on the Board of the New
considered for leadership roles within reason I became a transactional lawyer, and York chapter of TiE, and to provide pro bono
Area Of Practice the firm. In fact, our firm has achieved what continues to drive me, is the excitement legal services to Acumen. The common
Mansfield Certified Plus status for of learning the ins and outs of a company and theme, which admittedly resonates with me, is
emergiNg compANies achieving the goal of having women industry during the course of a representation. supporting businesses that can act as engines
& cApitAl and minority attorneys comprise of growth within their communities.
at least 30 percent of our major What is your favorite charity?
leadership roles. There are so many worthy causes, it is hard What is your favorite place to visit
I also believe that the legal industry to narrow down to one but I will narrow it down on Long Island?
as a whole can do more and I would to two organizations that I am deeply involved My favorite place on Long Island (and quite
love to see more players in the in — a global not-for-profit called TiE (The possibly the world) is Brookhaven, where my
field taking an aggressive stand to Indus Entrepreneurs), and Acumen. son, who is adopted, was born.
encourage diversity and inclusion. TiE works to foster entrepreneurship,
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-11
Congratulations to our colleagues
and all of this year’s honorees on being
named to Long Island Herald’s
2019 Top Lawyers List
P������� G������ ������� G. ��������� A. ������ �����
E����� �. ������� A����� �. ����� ���� M. �����
For nearly �� years, �eyer �uo��i has earned a reputa�on for integrity, crea�vity
and professionalism, and has set a standard of excellence in the prac�ce of law�
Prac�ce Areas �nclude� • Educa�on Law • Personal Injury
• �lterna�ve Dispute Resolu�on • Employment Law • Professional Responsibility
• �an�ruptcy & �usiness Reorgani�a�on • Equine & Racing Law • Real Estate
• Corporate Finance • Labor Law • Tax Cer�orari & Condemna�on
• Corporate Law • Li�ga�on & Dispute Resolu�on • Wills, Trusts & Estates
• Criminal Defense • Local Government, Land Use Law &
Environmental Compliance
Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. | 990 Stewart Avenue | Garden City | New York 11530 | 516-741-6565 | www.msek.com 1055036
S-12 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Lindsey M. ALbinski lindsey M. alBinski is a Partner at Winkler Kurtz LLP, known for Lindsey’s outstanding work with her clients has not gone unnoticed,
her tireless commitment to individuals seeking resolutions for matrimonial earning recognitions as a Top 10 Family Law Attorney in the State of New
Partner, Winkler Kurtz, LLP and family matters. Her ability to guide her clients through a difficult time York by American Jurist Institute, Attorney and Practice Magazine, National
in their lives with knowledge and sensitivity has secured her countless Academy of Family Law; and recognized by American Institute of Family
AwARd winneR successful outcomes for her clients and their families. Law for exceptional client service. She has also been named by Long Island
Business News in their 2018 Who’s Who Women in Professional Services.
Area Of Practice Lindsey prides herself on providing personal attention to each client.
By obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the client’s goals and Determined to be actively involved in the legal community, Lindsey
FAMiLy LAw needs, Lindsey diligently represents their interests through effective is on the Board of Directors for the Suffolk County Matrimonial Bar
litigation procedures, preparing them trial proceedings whenever the Association and a current member of the New York State Bar Association,
Joseph TRoTTi need may arise. Lindsey aggressively protects the rights of all her clients the Suffolk County Bar Association, and the Matrimonial Bar Association of
to help obtain the best possible outcomes during a painful and stressful Suffolk County. Additionally, she also provides pro bono legal services to
Partner, Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP period in their lives. assist the transgender community through a local charity on Long Island.
AwARd winneR Q&A What is your proudest achievement? What is the best advice for someone lifestyle, which often become the most
I am most proud of how I have considering a career in law? important factor to overall career satisfaction.
Area Of Practice navigated the challenges of family and Consider personal lifestyle goals when
a career. I attended law school with two choosing the areas of law you would like to What is your favorite charity?
FAMiLy LAw young children and had my third child practice. I think many new attorneys determine My favorite charity is St. Jude’s Children’s
in my final year. I am now a partner in a what area of law they would like to focus Research Hospital. People often say that there
JoeL M. GReenbeRG law firm that I am extremely proud to be on based off their academic strengths and is nothing more important than your health but
a part of. I have demonstrated for my weaknesses. However, each area of law the truth is there is nothing more important that
Partner, Frier Levitt Attorneys At Law, LLP daughter that it is possible to be a career comes with unique challenges to the attorney’s your children’s health.
minded person as well as an involved
AwARd winneR mother.
Area Of Practice Joseph trotti is the head of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP’s With 35 years of trial experience in custody, divorce, and support
Matrimonial and Family Law Practice and a leader of its LGBTQ matters, including several landmark cases, Joseph has carved out a
heALThcARe Representation Practice. He is the founding partner of the VMM Family reputation as an innovative litigator and compassionate counsel.
Institute℠, where he’s pioneered the application of Collaborative Law,
an approach used in corporate dispute resolution, to domestic cases. He is heavily involved in pro bono and nonprofit community
His practice empowers families to make informed decisions regarding work, including as a member of the Nassau County Supreme
their future while avoiding the emotional and financial toll associated Court Matrimonial Pro Bono Panel, the Queens County Civil and
with courtroom battles. For his pioneering work, the New York Law Supreme Court Pro Bono panel, as former president of the board
Journal named him a “2019 Trailblazer,” one of a handful of attorneys of the Community Education Council, and as co-chair of the Forest
statewide selected for the prestigious recognition. Hills Youth Activities Association. He additionally supports several
charitable organizations in New York, Queens and Long Island.
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? What is the best advice for someone often marred by personality conflicts. It
On several occasions I was retained considering a career in law? rarely serves the clients’ best interest. It’s
very late in the proceedings — I was My best advice is that you become an why I’ve incorporated Collaborative Law
perhaps the third or fourth attorney advocate. It is the client’s best interest and Mediation, an approach usually used in
retained by the client — but was able (whether financial, emotiona or legal) that is corporate dispute resolution. I strongly believe
to salvage what had appeared to paramount. You’re in a position to do good, to it can and should replace 99 percent of trials,
be matters that couldn’t be settled. help with someone’s wellbeing. which are financially and emotionally draining
Securing a positive result for a and, more often than not, unnecessary.
previously dissatisfied client, and What is one change you’d like
without the need for trial, is always a to see in your industry? Why did you choose a career in
point of pride. Chiefly, the adversarial nature involved in the legal profession?
litigation. Arguments and hearings concerning A lifelong fascination with the complexity of
points of law are fascinating, but they’re the law and the satisfaction of representing
individuals in need of assistance.
Joel M. GreenBerG, esq., is a Partner in Frier Levitt’s Healthcare providers encounter daily.
practice group, working out of the Uniondale, Long Island office. He Joel served as the managing editor of the New York Health Law
has extensive experience assisting health care providers, including
physicians, medical groups and dentists, among others, address the Update from 1998 through 2003 and was the chairman of the Hospital
numerous business and legal issues that arise in their practices. Joel and Health Law Committee of the Nassau County Bar Association
counsels clients in all aspects of a transaction — from the initial phase from 2000 to 2002. He is also co-editor in chief of the 3rd, 4th, and
of setting up an entity to establishing employment, partnership and 5th editions of the Legal Manual for New York Physicians, which is a
shareholder agreements to ensuring all actions taken by the entity collaborative publication by the New York State Bar Association and
comply with the federal and state fraud, abuse, self-referral and the Medical Society of the State of New York. Joel will also be serving
professional misconduct laws and regulations. in this capacity in connection with the upcoming 6th edition of this
two-volume treatise.
Additionally, Joel assists clients in the purchase, sale, and
dissolution of their professional practices, the intricacies of the Joel is also an Adjunct Professor of Health Law at SUNY College at
malpractice insurance world, and other business and legal issues Old Westbury.
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? Who influenced you the most in your career? ARTh
Being able to give back to my My family.
community and to help those in need. Partner,
What is your favorite place to visit on Long Campolo
What is the best advice for someone Island?
considering a career in law? Our magnificent beaches, especially those AwA
Work hard; return all your phone on Fire Island.
calls the same day; show empathy for Area Of P
your clients.
LAboR
siMA ALi siMa ali, esq., is owner and principal attorney of Ali Law Group, P.C., critical guidance to understanding the intricate and often complex laws
a boutique firm that provides the full range of representative services in and regulations.
Owner and Principal Attorney labor and employment law.
Ali Law Group, P.C. Sima received her B.S. from Cornell University, NY School of Industrial
Her practice focuses on labor and employment counsel retainer and Labor Relations and her J.D. from George Washington University
AwARd winneR services; harassment prevention services and training; employment School of Law. After establishing her career as a Labor and Employment
contracts and agreements such as severance arrangements, restrictive attorney, she launched the Ali Law Group in 2011. She was honored by Long
Area Of Practice covenants, non-competes; labor relations; alternative dispute resolution Island Business News with the Diversity in Business Award and the Top 50
(arbitration, mediation, negotiation of employment matters); compliance Women in Business Award, among her numerous awards and honors.
LAboR & eMpLoyMenT counseling; wage and hour practices; statutory-based claims such as
employment discrimination and retaliation, harassment, leaves-of- Her professional affiliations include Board Member of Suffolk County
JonAThAn beLL absence, disabilities and reasonable accommodations; commercial Women’s Bar Association; Member and Former Chair of the Suffolk County
litigation such as non-competition and trade secret disputes. Bar Association’s Labor & Employment Committee and Academy Officer;
Owner/Attorney Huntington Lawyers Club Member; Women’s Bar Association of the State
Bell Law Group, PLLC Sima offers an exceptional level of personalized service, working of New York Member.
closely with clients to help them develop a proactive rather than reactive
AwARd winneR approach to labor and employment issues. Her on-going support provides She is an engaging speaker who presents seminars on employment
law throughout the New York metropolitan area.
Area Of Practice
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career Who influenced/inspired you the most in
LAboR & eMpLoyMenT I am most proud of starting my own in the legal profession? your career?
law firm. It was a risk and a challenge I have always been curious and a problem My husband, Maqsood, and my kids (Zubair,
and big unknown. At the end of the day solver and I love reading and history. It truly fits Sabeena and Nadeera) were the major
has been the best thing for me. I have my personality and intellectual strengths. catalyst for starting my firm. My parents were
been able to practice law the way I role models as successful and hard working
want and be a business owner. What is your favorite charity? professionals (doctors) and my Dad also as an
PinkAid (www.pinkaid.org). entrepreneur/business owner.
Jonathan Bell is a labor and employment attorney and the owner Prior to starting his own firm, Jonathan first worked for a large New York
of Bell Law Group, PLLC. The firm has expanded significantly since he litigation firm. There he honed his case preparation and trial skills. He also
started it in 2002 as a solo-practitioner, due to his unwavering commitment gained great experience handling complex cases that sometimes involved
to his client and their cases. millions of dollars in claims. But he felt something was missing from his
work. He felt there was more he could do for his clients if he was able to
Jonathan’s devotion to his clients, including his honest feedback and choose the cases and how to proceed from the beginning. So he left that
approach to their cases have resulted in better than anticipated results. firm and opened his own company, The Law Office of Jonathan Bell, which
He manages the firm and ensures that each attorney and staff he hires turned into the Bell Law Group.
shares his personal passion and desire to obtain the best possible result
for his clients. Whether a federal employee, private sector employee or an Now he spends his days fully investing himself and his resources
employer/management, Jonathan has one goal in mind: do the best job in cases involving all types of Labor and Employment claims. He has
for his client and outperform the job anyone of his competitors could have successfully represented employees and employers in all aspects of
done under the circumstances. litigation as well as having significant trial experience.
Q&A What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career The movie (and book) “Defiance” portrays
My greatest achievement is creating in the legal profession? the story of my family. This story is rooted in
and developing the Bell Law Group, It’s in my blood. My great uncles, the my DNA. I chose employment law because
PLLC into one of the top labor and Bielski’s (before my name was changed when an employee is discriminated against
employment law firms in New York. I to Bell), walked out of a forest with 1,200 simply for being part of a protected class,
carefully selected the best staff, from Jews. Because of my family, tens of thousands whether it be race, age, religion, disability,
my partners Darryn Solotoff and of Jews are alive today! gender or sexual orientation, I have an
Nathalie Bell to each of our associates, My family, led by Tuvia and Zus Bielski, stood overwhelming passion to fight for the
including the paralegals and up and fought not only for themselves, but employee. This includes my passion to fight
administrative staff. for others. While there were many partisans for employees that are taken advantage of by
groups that recruited “young men with guns” to unscrupulous employers on wage and hour
fight, while turning away women, children and matters, wherein the employees are abused
elderly, my family accepted everyone. for employer profits.
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-13
The Attorneys at 1055024
Ruskin Moscou Faltischek P.C.
Proudly Congratulate their good
friends and colleagues
Adam P. Silvers, Irvin Brum, and
Ross J. Kartez
At the Herald 's Top Lawyers of
Long Island Awards
Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C. 516.663.6600 - www.rmfpc.com
S-14 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Mark a. Torres Mark a. Torres has served as General Counsel and Director of Legal graduating magna cum laude.
Affairs Teamsters Union Local 810 and Affiliated Benefit Funds since March Mark is also a novelist who has authored three books. He self-published
General Counsel 2009. As In-house General Counsel to the large private sector New York
Teamsters Union Local 810 City Teamsters Union and its three benefit funds, Mark counsels officers his debut novel “A Stirring in the North Fork” in 2015. This local tale, which
and employees on the administrative enforcement of over 100 collective centers on the unsolved murder of a young woman on the North Fork of
aWarD WInner bargaining agreements. Long Island, was pictured by readers on all seven continents within a year of
its release.
Area Of Practice He negotiates collective bargaining agreements, plant closing
agreements, employment policies, employee releases, and settlement He also released a Labor Union related children’s book “Good Guy Jake”
Labor & eMpLoyMenT agreements. Mark is the Union’s representative in arbitration hearings, Federal (Hard Ball Press, 2017). It strives to teach children the benefits and values of
and State Court litigation, and before the NLRB. As Director of Legal Affairs, union membership in a beautifully illustrated and bilingual story. Mark’s latest
anDreW J. Turro he oversees all legal matters including litigation, complex ERISA-related novel, “Adeline: (Indie Owl Press, 2019), is a fast-paced gripping tale about
matters, and the counseling of Fund trustees and employees on pension and the mysterious death of an innocent young woman wrongly committed to a
Partner, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. welfare benefit administration and employment policies. notorious mental asylum in Rockland County, New York in 1977.
aWarD WInner Mark received his Juris Doctor in May 2008 from Fordham University In his works Mark uses riveting storytelling and thorough research to
School of Law and his B.A. in History from New York University in May 2003, teach and entertain readers about various historical truths and locations
Area Of Practice throughout the New York state.
Labor & eMpLoyMenT Q&a What is your proudest achievement? and livelihoods. Whether it be negotiating What is your favorite place to visit on Long
I am blessed to have a career that on behalf of a group of employees for Island?
arThur yerMash a strong labor contract or representing My family and I have been vacationing on
is more of a calling than a profession. individual employees to secure or restore their the North Fork of Long Island (specifically
Partner, In this regard, I derive great joy and employment, each day I can truly say that Greenport and the surrounding towns) for
Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP satisfaction when I represent and these endeavors have led to my proudest more than 20 years. Without question, this is
counsel clients in the security and achievements. my favorite place to visit on Long Island.
aWarD WInner enhancement of their employment
Area Of Practice andrew J. Turro has extensive experience in state and federal he represents clients in State and Federal matters that include employment
appellate and trial litigation, both civil and criminal. His practice discrimination claims arising under Title VII, the ADA, and the State Human
Labor & eMpLoyMenT covers complex commercial, civil, employment, criminal and labor- Rights Law as well as Minimum Wage/Overtime claims under the Fair
related matters. Andrew represents professionals (lawyers, doctors, Labor Standards Act and New York State Labor laws. He also advises
a. ThoMas LevIn and other medical care providers) in disciplinary proceedings as well clients in connection with employment contracts, severance agreements,
as businesses and individuals before state and federal agencies. His comprehensive restrictive covenants, and various commercial contracts.
Member/General Counsel practice also includes several substantial equine law matters in which
Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. he has represented both individuals and professional groups before the Andrew also acts as general outside corporate counsel, advising
New York State Gaming Commission and the New York State Courts. clients on a broad range of legal matters. He also coordinates Meyer,
aWarD WInner Suozzi’s pro bono program. Under his supervision, the firm’s pro bono
An accomplished litigator, he has achieved successful results for his program has become involved in a wide range of matters providing legal
Area Of Practice clients in seminal cases involving landowner liability, the valuation of a assistance to numerous local not-for-profit and charitable organizations
municipality’s tax assessments on environmentally impaired properties, and legal organizations designed primarily to address the needs of persons
LanD use & ZonIng such as Superfund sites, and attacks on the legality of regulations of limited need, as well as individuals with special education needs.
promulgated by governmental agencies. In his employment law practice,
Q&a What is the best advice for someone able to find solutions and advocate for clients What is your favorite charity?
considering a career in law? facing an assortment of challenges in law and Island Harvest.
life.
A law degree is a valuable door to
numerous options and opportunities. Who influenced/inspired you the most in
your career?
Why did you choose a career in the
legal profession? My friend and partner Judge Bernard S.
Meyer.
To help others. As a lawyer, I am
arThur YerMash counsels clients in all areas of labor and employment nature of each employer and its industry, Arthur is often involved in creating
law. He advises clients on compliance with federal, state, and local laws affecting policies and procedures that are custom-tailored to the needs of the business.
the workplace, including payment of wages, overtime, paid and unpaid leave He also advises clients on all day-to-day employment issues and has drafted
requirements, employment discrimination, benefit requirements, hiring and numerous employee handbooks, policies, procedures, and related documents.
termination, among others. Arthur is often involved in drafting and negotiating Arthur has also been involved in negotiations with labor unions in connection
employment-related documents including employment agreements as well with collective bargaining agreements and arising disputes.
as non-competition, non-disclosure, severance, and option agreements. He
has extensive experience working with clients in the retail, hospitality/catering, In addition, Arthur has successfully represented and advised businesses in
healthcare, and technology industries. connection with numerous high-value transactions across a variety of sectors,
including asset purchases, stock purchases, mergers, and other forms of
Arthur’s practice also includes the representation of clients in discrimination business sales and acquisitions.
claims, wage and hour disputes, as well as defending against investigations by
regulatory and government agencies. As part of his corporate focus, Arthur has significant experience working
with nonprofit organizations through start-up and development initiatives,
His work includes implementing compliance programs and conducting routine operational matters, and more complex concerns including compliance,
internal investigations in connection with discrimination, compensation, fiduciary responsibility, and board member obligations.
overtime, and other employment issues. Taking into consideration the unique
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? What is the best advice for someone Why did you choose a career in the legal
Becoming a Partner at Campolo, considering a career in law? profession?
Middleton & McCormick is my proudest Deciding to practice law for the fame and Becoming a lawyer was a goal even before
achievement. I worked my way up from glory often portrayed on TV or in the media high school. Our profession has a certain
a part time intern all the way to partner, is not an ideal decision. The practice of law mystique and respect about it that always
and I’m honored to be a part of this requires extremely hard work and dedication drew me in. Lawyers are expected to be reli-
organization. CMM growing fast, and and many thankless days (and nights). The able problem solvers and deal makers. From
I look forward to seeing what comes folks that just want to be in the newspapers do a young age I saw myself as a problem solver
next as we expand further. not fare well. and knew this was always the path for me.
a. ThoMas LevinservesasShareholderandGeneralCounseltoMeyer, Since 1971, Mr. Levin has been the Editor of the “Bench Book for Trial
Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. He is also Chair of its Local Government, Land Judges,” now published by Thomson-Reuters. He has authored numerous
Use and Environmental Compliance practice and the Professional legal articles and is a frequent lecturer.
Responsibility practice. He originated and chairs the firm’s Veterans’
Scholarship Program at Nassau Community College. Mr. Levin represents In public service, Mr. Levin has been counsel to the New York State
private and public sector clients in local government law, land use Assembly Judiciary Committee and joint Legislative Committee on the
regulation, environmental review compliance, cable television franchising, State’s Economy, and is active in numerous community and charitable
municipal and commercial litigation and appeals, and matters relating to organizations. Since 2012 he has been annually recognized as a New York
professional responsibility, ethics and disciplinary proceedings. Super Lawyer, among his numerous accolades. He is rated “AV Preeminent”
by Martindale-Hubbell and recognized as an “Empire State Counsel” by the
A former New York State Bar Association President, he is a Life Member New York State Bar Association annually, since 2006, for his strong support
of its House of Delegates and serves on various NSYSBA committees. He to pro bono services, outstanding leadership in the legal community, and
is also a Trustee of, and Counsel to, the Historical Society of the New York devotion to improving the justice system on Long Island.
Courts, among his many professional endeavors.
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career Who influenced/inspired you the most in
My proudest achievement is having in the legal profession?
your career?
been selected by my peers to serve as Having observed my father’s career as an My father, Irving Levin, was the greatest in-
President of the 72,000 member New attorney, and his myriad other admirable
York State Bar Association, the largest activities, I concluded that the legal profes- fluence in my career. He was essentially a solo
voluntary state bar association in the sion offered unmatched opportunities to serve practitioner, who embodied all that is best in
nation, which gave me a platform and the community, assist people in achieving fair the legal profession. He understood his clients
opportunity to diversify and improve and equitable resolutions for their problems and their needs, sought to achieve just results,
that organization and to contribute to a and transactions, and try to leave the world a and unstintingly donated his time and efforts
better system of justice for all. better place than I found it. I hope that others to those who were unable to afford to pay. His
will conclude that I have accomplished this to a ethical compass was impeccable. He served
significant degree. in numerous volunteer public service positions,
including as an Acting Village Justice, and was
a model for what attorneys should aspire to be.
One of the founding partners of the law firm, Fred serves as senior Industry & Technology, Inc. (past president). He also served on the Board
trial partner in all areas of litigation. Fred has been representing clients in of Mather Memorial Hospital for over 12 years. Additionally, Fred has been
transactions and matters of significant exposure for over 35 years. He tries honored as among the best trial lawyers on Long Island and has been
cases involving significant claims on Long Island and New York City. He named to “Best Lawyers” for 14 consecutive years and to “Super Lawyers”
takes a down to earth, common sense approach to resolving the most for the 10th consecutive year. He is rated “AV” by Martindale Hubbell.
complicated litigation in a cost-effective manner.
Fred is a member of many industry organizations and has lectured on
Fred has served as Village Attorney for the Village of Port Jefferson. medical malpractice litigation and trial techniques among other topics both
He was Vice-Chairman on the Grievance Committee for the Tenth Judicial in the U.S. and across the pond.
District, serves on the Board of Governors of Touro Law School, the Board
of Boys Hope Girls Hope, and the Board of Advancement for Commerce Fred loves his sons Andrew and Freddie, practicing law and playing
golf.
FreDerIck c. Johs Q&a What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career
Being a good son to my parents and in the legal profession?
Founding Partner
Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP a good father to my sons. I wanted to be a trial lawyer since I was 10.
Probably from watching lawyer TV shows.
aWarD WInner What is the best advice for someone
considering a career in law? What is your favorite place to
Area Of Practice visit on Long Island?
Make sure that you are passionate
LITIgaTIon about becoming a lawyer. Don’t do it Any golf course, most vineyards, and my
because you can’t think of anything friend’s house on Great River.
else you want to do or because you
think you’ll make a lot of money. Be
prepared to make sacrifices.
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-15
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S-16 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Ross J. KaRtez Ross J. KaRtez, an Associate at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, While at St. John’s, Ross served as an executive board member of
P.C., is a member of the firm’s litigation department. His practice the Dispute Resolution Society, and was a participant inthe prestigious
Associate, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C. focuses on commercial litigation. He primarily represents clients in International Chamber of Commerce Mediation Competition in Paris,
matters involving real estate, securities, shareholder and partnership France; also the FINRA Securities Dispute Triathlon in New York City.
aWaRD WINNeR agreements, business torts, employment disputes, alternative dispute While in law school, he also gained experience representing clients
resolution, insurance coverage, and various breach of contract while interning for the St. John’s University Securities Arbitration Clinic.
Area Of Practice disputes. He has represented clients in Federal Court, State Court,
FINRA and AAA Arbitration, and in all aspects of negotiation, mediation, Ross is a member of the NYSBA’s Dispute Resolution Section,
LItIGatIoN arbitration, and litigation. Commercial and Federal Litigation Section, and International Section.
He has published in the Dispute Resolution Lawyer, and currently
aDam P. sLateR Ross received his Juris Doctor Degree from St. John’s University serves on the Executive Committee of the Dispute Resolution Section
School of Law and his Bachelor’s (concentrated in Legal Studies) and the International Section.
Partner, Slater Slater Schulman LLP from the University at Buffalo. He has received extensive mediation
instruction, including the required training certified by Part 146 of the Ross is admitted to practice law in the State of New York, the State
aWaRD WINNeR New York State Unified Court System. of New Jersey, and the U.S. District Courts for the Southern District of
New York and the Eastern District of New York.
Area Of Practice
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? of being there for my family. Ruskin Moscou Professionally, I have been fortunate in
mass toRts Being a father and husband to my also supports this goal, which makes it easier obtaining favorable results in difficult cases
two beautiful boys and my even more to relax outside the office knowing that my and obtaining settlements in complicated
beautiful wife. Balancing life and giving firm supports my professional and personal situations. I am proud of the reputation I have
my family the attention they deserve goals. There are times when my family makes built as a well-rounded attorney helping
is not easy, especially as a busy sacrifices that help support my professional clients with business start-up issues, complex
attorney. I am proud to say that I am success — so any professional honor I receive commercial disputes and post-litigation/post-
accomplishing my most important goal equally belongs to my family. arbitration issues.
adam P. slateR is a seasoned attorney with 15 years of litigation Trial Lawyers Association’s Top 100 Trial Attorney and a National Trial
experience involving mass torts, World Trade Center Victim’s Lawyers Association’s Top 25 Mass Tort Lawyer. He is a member of
Compensation Fund, pharmaceutical drugs, medical device,toxic and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi Million Dollar Advocates
environmental torts, products liability, catastrophic personal injuries, Forum. He is rated a 10.0 on Avvo and has been recognized as a NY
class action, CVA cases and employment law. Mr. Slater aggressively Metro Super Lawyers Rising Star.
represents his clients to obtain the justice they deserve for their loss.
Mr. Slater received a B.A. from the University of Maryland, College
His work has been featured in newspapers, legal journals and Park in 2001 and a J.D. from the St. John’s University School of Law in
other media sources, including Forbes, CNN, Reuters, Associated 2004. Mr. Slater grew up in Dix Hills and currently resides in Manhattan
Press, NBC National, NBC New York, ABC, CBS, Fox, New York Times, with his wife and two daughters. His Law Firm’s offices are located in
New York Post, New York Daily News, Univision, Telemundo, Law 360 Melville, Manhattan, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
and The New York Law Journal. Additionally, Mr. Slater is a National
Q&a What is the best advice for someone Who influenced/inspired you the most in What is your favorite charity?
considering a career in law? your career? The Ray Pfeifer Foundation is a 501c3
From the beginning of your career, at The two people who have influenced me charitable organization dedicated to assisting
your very first job in a law firm, make in my life and career are both my father and September 11th first responders, firefighters
sure it is with a firm that you will gain grandfather. They have given me the support and police, with medical needs not covered by
tremendous practical experience. and foundation I needed to build upon my insurance.
career.
What is one change you’d like to see
in your industry?
Ideally, the one change I would like
to see is for cases to move quicker
through the judicial system.
RobeRt V. FallaRino, esq. is a trial attorney with 30 years of Robert has been named to the 2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017 list of
experience leading medical malpractice litigation, complex labor law, Best Lawyers in America®. He has also been named every year since
and product defect litigation. In 2012, he obtained the fourth highest 2012 to the New York Metro Super Lawyers© List, for peer recognition
verdict in New York State for medical negligence, and a top 10 verdict and professional achievement.
overall.
He is a member of New York State Bar Association, North
Robert has dedicated his career to compassionately helping Carolina Bar Association, New York State Trial Lawyers Association,
people who have endured life altering and catastrophic injuries. He Nassau County Bar Association, Washington D.C. Bar Association, and
strives to resolve matters in the most advantageous setting for his American Association for Justice.
clients, whether that means obtaining a jury verdict, a court conference
settlement, or by use of a mediator. Time and again, he has resolved Robert is also active in community matters. He currently serves
cases for millions of dollars for patients who have been victims of as the vice president of the East Williston Union Free School District
medical negligence across New York State and throughout the nation. Board of Education, and has served on the board since 2009. He
He ensures that his clients — from all walks of life — feel comfortable previously volunteered to serve the public as a prosecuting attorney
and confident of the decisions throughout the legal process. for the Village of Floral Park.
RobeRt V. FaLLaRINo RIcha
Attorney, Pegalis Law Group, LLC Partner, M
aWaRD WINNeR aWa
Area Of Practice Area Of P
meDIcaL maLPRactIce tax ce
JeFFRey KImmeL JeFF Kimmel has positioned himself as a fierce business leader in case value maximization protocols, staffing diversity and community
Managing Partner, Princpal/CEO the legal industry. In his role as Partner and CEO, he has navigated the outreach programs.
Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro LLP
firm’s rapid growth and elevated its status to one of the leading and most Jeff is also seen as a new thought leader within the legal community
aWaRD WINNeR
progressive personal injury law firms in New York. His recognition as a as he constantly reciprocates his passion and knowledge of the law as
Area Of Practice “Trailblazer” by the New York Law Journal in its inaugural list of attorneys a sought after lecturer and mentor. He frequently lectures attorneys
PeRsoNaL INJuRy identified Jeff as a business leader and true agent of change in the legal on trial-related topics for the National Business Institute (NBI), NYS
steVeN mILLeR field. Academy of Trial Lawyers, New York County Lawyers’ Association
Senior Partner As a graduate of Wharton Business School and Brooklyn Law and Brooklyn Law School. Additionally, he participates in CLE
Miller, Montiel & Strano, P.C. School, Jeff has meticulously combined his entrepreneurial business webinars for Lawline, Clear Law Institute, and myLawCLE. Jeff also
aWaRD WINNeR background with his keen analytical legal sense to cultivate not just regularly participates as a judge in Yale University’s annual Mock Trial
a dynamic law firm, but an effective, client-oriented business that competition.
Area Of Practice
supports and promotes lawyer development, firm efficiency processes,
PeRsoNaL INJuRy
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? planning which will lead to certain growth and expectations direct your career or your life.
My proudest achievement is having success for the firm into the 21st century!
recognized, accepted and embraced Why did you choose a career in the legal
that my law firm is a business, as much What is the best advice for someone profession?
as it provides an important service considering a career in law? I feel more like the legal profession chose
to victims of negligence, medical My best advice is to make sure being a me. From a young age, the skills required in
malpractice and discrimination. I tried lawyer is something you LOVE. The best the profession came naturally to me: public
cases for 20 years before I added the lawyers are the ones who absolutely enjoy speaking, respecting rules and protocols,
title of “CEO” to my role in the firm. It’s practicing law. You can’t be happy in life if genuine inquisitiveness and an appreciation
provided an entirely new view of my you’re not happy in your chosen profession, of history. My high school Principles of Law
firm, the profession and my purpose. so choose wisely. The good news is that the teacher took us on a field trip to Washington,
I’m so fortunate to now utilize my legal field is so broad and diverse, it should D.C. to watch the Supreme Court in action.
business background to improve the be easy to find what’s right for you. Just be It sold me on the profession. I never really
processes, infrastructure and strategic true to yourself and don’t let other people’s considered doing anything else.
steVen milleR, senior partner at Miller, Montiel & Strano, P.C., is a by lecturing other attorneys in the art of conducting trials in continuing legal
trial attorney representing the seriously injured victims of motor vehicle, education seminars. In addition, he lectures for the Queens County Bar
construction site and premises accidents caused by the negligence of others. Association, where he co-chairs the Judicial Relations Committee, and for the
Nassau County Bar Association.
Described as a well prepared, detail orientated, tenacious adversary,
Steven has obtained multimillion dollar verdicts and settlements on clients’ Steven’s charitable activities include sitting on the Board of Directors
behalf. He has been recognized for excellence in practice by “Super Lawyers”, of The Book Fairies, which provides teachers and students in underserved
an honor bestowed on only five percent of New York metropolitan area communities with free books.
attorneys. He enjoys an “AV Preeminent” rating, the highest possible rating, in
legal ability and ethical standards. He is an elected member of the American Steven is also involved in significant pro bono community services. He
Board of Trial Advocates in recognition of his skill, integrity and advocacy provided pro bono services in establishing a Memorial Fund for the widows
experience. The National Trial Lawyers awarded Steven the designation of and children of deceased firefighters from FDNY Engine 54, Ladder 4 of the
“Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Lawyer”. lost in the World Trade Center attack; also services to the families of 9/11
victims through Trial Lawyers Care. He has sat on the Board of Directors of a
Steven earned his law degree from St. Johns University School of Law, safe house for women, providing guidance to many, and also was a trustee
graduating Cum Laude and Dean’s List. He continues his association there on his local civic association board.
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? Fairies located at 70 North Main Street in two books of their own to bring home at no cost.
My proudest achievement is, together Freeport. I sit as a member of their Board of During these events children have shown great
with my wife Karyn, who understands me Directors. The Book Fairies collects new and interest in reading and joyful surprise when they
so well and who I love so much, raising lightly used books from many sources. They learn the books are free for them to keep.
two children who are caring, giving then make sure that these books find their way Teachers have reported that after The Book
adults, respectful and supportive of into the hands of those in most need. The Book Fairies efforts supplying books to students, the
each other. The time we spend together Fairies have established free libraries at high students reading levels have risen dramatically.
energizes me to tackle the challenges need schools. They conduct community book The Book Fairies is about to distribute their two
of my profession and other bumps in the fairs providing educators with the opportunity millionth book, an unprecedented milestone.
road that life brings to all of us. to obtain free reading materials specific to the Donations are greatly appreciated and can
needs of their students. They conduct free school be made by going to The Book Fairies website
What is your favorite charity? book fairs in high need areas allowing students at www.thebookfairies.org.
My favorite charity is The Book to “shop” through brand new books and select
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-17
Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP
Applauds all of the 2019
Top Lawyers of Long Island Award Winners!
Congratulations to our very own
Arthur Yermash, Esq. Arthur Yermash, Esq.
Partner Employment Law Honoree
&
Dermond Thomas, Esq.
Corporate Law Honoree
on being recognized as
2019 Top Lawyers of Long Island!
Dermond Thomas, Esq.
Of Counsel
1055300
S-18 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
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ellen n. savino EllEn Savino is a Partner at Lewis Johs, practicing real estate as a Power Woman in Business in 2016. She was recognized in Long
and banking law. She supervises the firm’s real estate group. Ellen Island Business News in 2014 as a “Who’s Who in Commercial Real
Partner, Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP represents major institutional lenders and credit unions as well as real Estate Law”. In 2003 and 2008, Ellen was named one of the Top 50 Most
estate investors and business owners. Ellen has extensive experience Influential Women on Long Island by Long Island Business News. She
aWaRD WinneR handling all aspects of real property law, including institutional also had the distinction of receiving the Class of 2002 Business
financing, real estate sale, acquisition and leasing transactions; as well Recognition and Leadership Award from the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Area Of Practice as foreclosure and real estate related litigation.
She is active in a wide range of professional and community
Real estate Ellen served as counsel to New York State Senator Carl Marcellino activities and is involved with her alma mater, Hofstra University. She
of the Fifth Senate District from 2006 to 2018. served as an affiliate instructor, teaching real property law for the
Paralegal Studies Certificate Program, and as a mentor for the Hofstra
Ellen was named in 2017 Long Island Business News’ “Who’s Who in Law Mentorship Program. She received a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude,
Women in Professional Services” celebrating influential businesswomen from Hofstra University and graduated from Hofstra Law School.
and was recognized by Hofstra Law as an Outstanding Woman in Law
in 2017. Schneps Communications and Star Network honored Ellen
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? Why did you choose a career Who influenced/inspired you
My proudest achievement is my in the legal profession? the most in your career?
family. My husband and I have twin I was intrigued by the practice of law. I love My father. He started and built a successful
boys, who are now in high school. I deal to read and analyze information, which is a business, which is still part of our family. He
with the daily challenges of manag- large part of the practice of law. I was drawn taught me the importance of hard work, dedi-
ing a family along with practicing law to my field because I particularly enjoy the cation and family values. Although he is no
and furthering my legal career. Both challenge of negotiating a contract on a new longer with us, I am reminded everyday of the
are well worth the effort and come with real estate transaction and ultimately closing advice and guidance he has given me over the
many rewards. on the deal. years.
Tax attorney KarEn TEnEnbaum founded Tenenbaum Law, P.C., She has been honored by the Long Island Center for Business
which is recognized as a leading tax firm handling tax dispute resolution. & Professional Women, Achievers’ Award recipient; New York State
Tenenbaum Law, P.C., helps individuals and businesses facing IRS and Society of Certified Public Accountants, Nassau Chapter, Samuel B.
New York State tax problems. Traum Achievement Award recipient; Long Island Pulse Magazine Top
Ten Legal Eagle, Most Impressive Case Victory.
Karen and her team have successfully represented clients in
matters including IRS and New York State Tax Collection, Innocent Karen was named as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in
Spouse Relief Claims, New York State Conciliation Conferences, Business by Long Island Business News, Legal Leaders’ Long Island
Individual and Business Tax Audits, IRS Appeals, Penalty Abatements, Top Rated Lawyers, Super Lawyers’ Top Women Attorneys in the New
New York State and New York City Residency Audits, New York State York Metro, a Long Island Power Women in Business by Long Island
Sales Tax Audits, Offers in Compromise, Installment Agreements, Liens, Press, selected as a New York Metro Super Lawyer, a SmartCEOs
Levies and Seizures, and Voluntary Disclosures. Future 50 Award recipient, Judge Gail Prudenti Outstanding Women
in Law Award, and rated a Top Women-Owned Law Firm in New York
Karen’s knowledge and leadership have established her as a by the New York Law Journal, among her many accolades.
leading tax attorney in the New York area. She is a frequent speaker on
IRS and New York State tax issues for numerous professional groups.
KaRen J. tenenbaum Q&a What is your proudest achievement? non-profit organization, Commerce Plaza, that my favorite charity would be Commerce Plaza,
First, my family. My husband, Larry, teaches children about money and business. now part of YES Community Counseling.
Founder/Partner and I have raised two successful, Ensuring that our children can provide for
Tenenbaum Law, P.C. happy daughters, who have families What is your favorite charity? themselves is an important cause that is
and careers of their own. Professionally, There are so many worthwhile charities, near and dear to me. Commerce Plaza is the
aWaRD WinneR I am most proud of starting my own but since I co-founded Commerce Plaza Children’s Business Center, where 5th and 6th
law firm and growing it into one of the and I passionately believe that we have graders get a hands-on experience of being
Area Of Practice most successful tax law firms on Long a responsibility to raise children who are both business operators and consumers in a
Island. Additionally, I helped start a financially responsible and knowledgeable, simulated business community.
taX
riChard G. FromEwiCK is a seasoned attorney who provides a full in precedent setting decisions in his clients’ favor.
range of real estate tax assessment services as Chair of the Tax Certiorari Richard, who began with Meyer, Suozzi as an associate in 1981 and
and Condemnation Practice at Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. These
include representation with respect to all types of commercial and residential became a director in 1985, has been a member of the firm’s Management
properties in tax assessment reduction proceedings, projection of real estate Committee since 1991.
taxes in connection with the purchase, development and improvement of
properties, and advising with respect to tax exemption matters. In 2017, he received the Leadership in Law — Lifetime Achievement
Award from Long Island Business News. He was recognized by Long Island
Richard has successfully represented numerous owners and tenants in Pulse in 2010, 2011, and 2012 as one of the region’s “Top Legal Eagles.” For
proceedings to reduce real property taxes and regarding claims against the over 25 years, he has been rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell, the
State of New York and its municipalities based on the taking of land or other highest level in professional excellence.
real property rights. He has handled a substantial number of tax certiorari
cases involving large commercial properties that have remediation/pollution Before joining Meyer, Suozzi, Richard was a Deputy County Attorney in
problems, resulting in sizable refunds for his clients. His expertise has resulted the Land Division and Deputy Bureau Chief in the Tax Certiorari Bureau of the
Nassau County Attorney’s Office.
RiChaRD G. FRomeWiCK Q&a What is your proudest achievement? Associations to get lists of the various legal throughout my legal career.
Becoming a partner and chair of the committees that meet at the Association.
Partner, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. Tax Certiorari Department at Meyer, Who influenced/inspired you the most in
Suozzi, English & Klein. Why did you choose a career in the legal your career?
aWaRD WinneR profession? I was a new college student in 1960 and I
What is the best advice for someone As the eldest of four, growing up, I found was in awe of Jack Kennedy and Kennedy’s
Area Of Practice considering a career in law? myself energetically asserting our wants young crew cut Long Island advisor, Jack
Read books about the law — i.e. with our parents. I seamlessly moved into English. From that time on, I dreamed about
taX CeRtioRaRi Louis Nizer’s “My Life in Court”. There the leadership of the Pre-Law Society at the becoming a lawyer on Long Island in Jack
are many paths once you have a law Bronx High School of Science and advocated English’s firm. As a young lawyer, I followed
degree. Write to several law schools our rights with the administrator’s proclivity Jack English’s lead that every client is the
and ask for copies of their required and towards the science majors. That stance for most important and everyone deserves the
elective courses. Write to several Bar those being taken advantage of has continued very best efforts of their lawyer.
the maiDenbaum team ilYSE GEllar STErnbErG, ESq., a
graduate of George Washington University Law
shalom s. maiDenbaum School and Columbia Business School, is the
head of Maidenbaum & Sternberg’s commercial
Founder/Managing Partner certiorari department. She has been integrally
involved in residential tax filings for close to 30
ilyse GellaR steRnbeRG years. While growing her firm is always a priority,
she strongly believes in maintaining a personal
Partner touch — customer service and congenial client
relationships are of paramount importance to her.
amy G. maDmon
amY G. madmon, ESq., a graduate of
Senior Associate American University, Washington College of
Maidenbaum & Sternberg, LLP Law, began at Maidenbaum & Sternberg as
a law student and now manages the day-
aWaRD WinneR to-day operations of the residential certiorari
department. She also handles the firm’s real
Area Of Practice estate transactions and represents local non-
profit organizations. Amy is focused on building
taX CeRtioRaRi relationships with staff and clients centered on
communication, trust and reliability.
Shalom S. maidEnbaum, ESq. is the 30 years Shalom and his team have been School and NYU’s Business School, Shalom’s
Managing and Founding partner of Maidenbaum successfully representing homeowners to vision and passion for helping Nassau County All three are steadfast believers in family,
& Sternberg, LLP, a prominent Nassau County maintain fair assessments of their properties. residents navigate the tax grievance process community and significant charitable giving.
firm that specializes in real estate, commercial have made his firm a leader in the field.
and residential tax certiorari. A graduate of Benjamin N. Cardozo Law
Originally a commercial litigator, Shalom
transitioned to taxpayer advocacy. For over
robErT J. Cimino was the Suffolk County Attorney for 12 years. He Top Legal Eagle in Suffolk and Nassau Counties for government.
has over 20 years of municipal law experience working in the Office of the From 1988 through 1991 Robert served as the Islip Town Attorney. From
Suffolk County Attorney, and before that as the Islip Town Attorney.
1980 through 1991 he was the senior partner in Cimino & Prudenti, a firm
As County Attorney, Robert managed and directed over 50 attorneys practicing trusts and estates law and litigation. From 1977 to 1980, he was
in the County’s municipal law office, providing legal representation to the the Chief Clerk, Chief Law Assistant, and the Law Clerk to the Surrogate at
County and prosecuting and defending all civil actions and proceedings the Suffolk County Surrogate’s Court.
in federal and state courts, including all appeals, brought by or against the
County, its legislature, and the County’s officers and employees. He is rated Robert graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo
“AV” by Martindale Hubbell. Long Island Pulse Magazine has rated Robert a Law School in 1971. He graduated from the State University of New York at
Buffalo with a Bachelor’s Degree in 1968.
RobeRt J. Cimino Q&a What is your proudest achievement? What is your favorite charity?
Serving as Suffolk County Attorney CTREE, The Center for Therapeutic Riding of
Senior Counsel for 12 consecutive years. the East End — therapeutic riding lessons for
Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP young adults and children with disabilities.
What is the best advice for someone
aWaRD WinneR considering a career in law? What is your favorite place to visit on Long
Keep all of your options open as you Island?
Area Of Practice never know where your career will lead The Hamptons.
you.
tRust & estates
S-20 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Congratulations to our very own
SENIOR PARTNER
STEVEN MILLER
being recognized as a
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VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO LLP HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND ATTORNEY ADVERTISING
richnerlive.com Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-21
2019 TOP BOUTIQUE FIRM
Joseph Joseph Joseph Constantina
Milizio Trotti Milizio Papageorgiou
CIVIL RIGHTS FAMILY LAW PRO BONO RISING STARS
PROJECT OF THE YEAR UNDER 40
Also Nominated
Andrew Kimler Bernard McGovern Richard Apat Joseph Milizio
LABOR & EMPLOYMENT ESTATES & TRUSTS PERSONAL INJURY LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Avrohom Gefen James Burdi Joseph Trotti Dennis Lyons
LABOR & EMPLOYMENT ESTATES & TRUSTS DIVORCE / MEDIATION RISING STARS UNDER 40
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REAL ESTATE ESTATES & TRUSTS PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR
For fifty years, the law firm of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP has helped private and business clients
ensure their wellbeing, plan for their future, and protect their interests.
A full-service firm with offices on Long Island, New York City, and Oakhurst, NJ, VMM proudly
maintains long-lasting relationships with clients over decades and generations.
Trusts and Estates • Business and Transactional Law • Exit Planning for Business Owners • Commercial
Litigation • Elder Law • Family Law • Alternate Dispute Resolution • Employment Law • Real Estate Law •
Personal Injury • LGBTQ Representation.
3000 Marcus Avenue, Suite 1E9 570 Lexington Ave, Suite 1600 255 Monmouth Road, Second Floor
Lake Success, NY 11042 New York, NY 10022 Oakhurst, NJ 07755
(516) 437-4385 (212) 759-3500 (732) 531-8900
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S-22 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Patricia Galteri patricia Galteri serves as the Managing Attorney of Meyer, of estate assets, and is knowledgeable in all aspects of estate
Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C., an established Long Island firm and chairs administration and post-mortem estate tax planning. Her in-depth
Managing Attorney the firm’s Management Committee. In addition to her management knowledge of preparation of federal and state estate tax returns
Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. role, Patricia is Chair of the firm’s Wills, Trusts & Estates Department. enables her to defend positions on gift and estate tax returns under
audit.
aWarD WiNNer Her practice includes estate and family business planning to
ensure the tax efficient transfer of wealth to the next generation Patricia is frequently requested by the media to comment on gift
Area Of Practice while meeting her clients’ specific personal goals. She implements and estate tax law; she also authored a chapter titled “Preparing an
such plans through the use of wills and grantor trusts, irrevocable life Appropriate Strategy” for Thomson Reuters’ “Beginning the Estate
trusts & estates insurance trusts, generation skipping trusts, grantor retained annuity Planning Process.”
trusts and other arrangements designed to transfer property at little or
reduced gift tax cost to selected beneficiaries. Nomination of agents Among her accolades, she was honored at the Premier Business
under Powers of Attorneys and Health Care Proxies also play an Women of Long Island Awards Gala in 2019; she received Hofstra’s
important role in effecting her clients’ intentions. Outstanding Women in Law Award in 2017; and was named to the New
York Super Lawyers list as one of the top attorneys in New York in
In addition, Patricia supervises probate and administration 2016-2017. She is also rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell,
documents preparation, advises the marshaling and preservation the highest level in professional excellence.
Q&a Why did you choose a career in the learned how immensely crucial family values jessi
legal profession? and education are to achieve success.
I want to help others solve their Partner, J
problems. What is your favorite charity?
Long Island Community Foundation for the aWa
Who influenced/inspired you the vital services it provides to our Long Island
most in your career? communities.
My mother. Her message is simple
but its impact is powerful: “Never let What is your favorite place to visit on Long
HER rest until HER good is better, and Island?
HER better is best.” She made me want Montauk and Shelter Island for the scenic
to always strive for excellence, and I beauty.
leWis johs toP PhilaNthroPic Firm
avalloNe aviles, llP
organizations. Some of the many organizations House, American Kidney Fund, Go Red for charities. Their team has acted as elves
aWarD WiNNer that benefit from Lewis Johs philanthropy Women, John Theissen Children’s Foundation, wrapping holiday gifts for needy children,
include Developmental Disabilities Institute, The Maurer Foundation, American Red Cross, collected and sorted food and adopted
lewis Johs avallone aviles, llp Blanca’s House, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, The Arthritis Foundation NY, Boys Hope Girls 50 needy families at Thanksgiving time to
is a true full service law firm with offices on American Heart Association, Michael Gilmor Hope, and March of Dimes. provide holiday meals. They have held food
Long Island and in New York City. Founded in Scholarship Fund, Long Island Cares, NYU drives, coat drives, backpack drives, shoe
1993, Lewis Johs has grown from four to over Langone Perlmutter Center, Gracious Hands, Together the Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles drives, blood drives, book drives, toy drives…
70 attorneys. From its inception, the firm has Stage the Change, United Veterans Beacon family has helped build houses, walked miles, and the list goes on!
steadily gained a reputation as a skilled and ran marathons and cycled 24 hours for worthy
dynamic law firm capable of managing the They have supported hurricane relief
most complex litigation, trial, transactional, efforts and homeless veteran initiatives.
real estate, corporate and appellate work. Some of their staff are Big Brothers & Big
The success and abilities of Lewis Johs trial Sisters to underprivileged children. Each
attorneys positions the firm to obtain the best year Lewis Johs opens their heart up to
possible result for their clients, whether that Sister Mary and her special kids with Boys
means early resolution or a trial by jury. Hope Girls Hope of NY. They have members
that have shaved their heads for cancer
Equally as important, Lewis Johs is and all with a smile on their face. They have
dedicated to community outreach and giving contributed and helped build 3 sustainable
back. Community involvement is a vital part of garden towers in a special little orphanage
the culture at Lewis Johs. The firm is steadfast in Haiti, that today provides fresh fruit and
in its belief in giving back to the community vegetables for the resident children.
it serves; attorneys and staff actively support
numerous charities and community-based They commit, they support, they mentor,
they teach, they share, they act, they give and
they care. All without ever looking for anything
in return.
Pro BoNo Project oF the Year
Joseph G. Milizio founded VMM’s groundbreaking LGBTQ community outreach projects in support of the LGBTQ community
Representation Practice 15 years ago, one of the earliest law firms and cause, far beyond the scope of a boutique law firm.
in the U.S. to have one. He’s been leading the firm’s advocacy for
LGBTQ rights in New York and New Jersey ever since. Recently, these have included serving as the corporate sponsor
Mr. Milizio is a trusted advisor and provides legal counsel, of CUNY Pridefest 2019, a celebration of pride for the entire CUNY
representation, and education to the LGBTQ community in a variety system; as the sponsor of the Queens College GLASA (Gay, Lesbian
of issues, from workplace discrimination to adoption rights to estate and Straight Alliance) Club; as the sponsor of the Queens College
planning. He is the co-chair of the Nassau County Bar Association “Train the Trainer” program for LGBTQ antidiscrimination; as volunteer
LGBTQ Committee; a member of the Human Rights Campaign curriculum advisors and lecturers at the Queens College LGBTQ
(HRC) New York Steering Committee; and a longtime supporter of Studies minor pilot program; and as the second-largest sponsor of
the Long Island Crisis Center Pride for Youth initiative, which named the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) New York Golf Outing & Dinner,
him “2017 Person of the Year.” an annual fundraiser for the largest LGBTQ advocacy group and
Under his leadership, VMM regularly engages in pro bono and political lobbying organization in the US.
josePh G. milizio
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP
aWarD WiNNer
Thank You To our EvEnT SponSorS
VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO LLP
Labor & Employment Counselors
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-23
law.hofstra.edu
The Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University 1055301
and
Judge Gail Prudenti, Dean
are delighted to join
Herald Community Newspapers
in honoring
Hofstra Law Alumni
Kim M. Ciesinski ’89
Founding Partner, Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq., PLLC
Patricia Galteri ’83
Managing Attorney, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
Edward J. LoBello ’81
Member, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
Melissa Negrin-Wiener ’01
Partner, Genser Cona Elder Law
and Our Friends at
Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP
as
Top Lawyers of Long Island
Congratulations to all the honored lawyers and law firms!
S-24 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Jessica M. BaQueT rising sTars unDer 40
Partner, Jaspan Schlesinger LLP Jessica M. BaqueT devotes her practice to complex commercial and breaches of restrictive covenants.
disputes, labor and employment matters and contested proceedings Jessica’s employment law practice involves the defense of
aWarD Winner concerning trusts and estates. She represents individuals,
municipalities and institutional clients in litigation in state and federal employers against claims alleging discrimination, harassment,
courts and before administrative bodies. Jessica also handles appeals retaliation, and wage and hour violations, and in lawsuits involving
to the Appellate Divisions of the New York State Supreme Court, the the enforcement of employment and separation agreements. She
New York Court of Appeals and the United States Court of Appeals for also represents employers in investigations and proceedings before
the Second Circuit. administrative agencies.
Jessica’s wide-ranging experience makes her a true partner to In her estate litigation practice, Jessica represents beneficiaries,
clients from a case’s inception through final appeal, and in otherwise creditors and fiduciaries in proceedings before the Supreme Courts
formulating litigation-avoidance strategies. She recognizes that every and Surrogate’s Courts throughout New York state, As a complement
client has unique goals and views her most important role as that of a to her litigation practice, Jessica routinely provides labor and
tactician and strategist. employment counsel to employers of all sizes.
In her commercial practice, Jessica represents businesses and Her many awards and honors include 50 Most Influential Women
individuals in cases involving contract disputes, partnership and in Business Award, Long Island Business News, 2018; New York Metro
shareholder disputes, insurance coverage issues, joint venture Area Super Lawyers Rising Stars List, 2014-2019; Outstanding Women
agreements, breaches of fiduciary duty, unfair competition claims, in Law Award, Hofstra University, Maurice A. Deane School of Law, 2016.
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? school does not provide students an accurate The result is that it often takes a long time to
I am proud that I have been able to sense of what it is like to be an attorney. bring lawsuits to a conclusion. Delays can be
show my four daughters that it is pos- My best is advice is for someone consider- made worse by lawyers and/or litigants who
sible to both raise a family and have a ing a career in law to try to gain some practi- refuse to timely meet case deadlines along
successful career. While it is not easy cal insight by pursuing jobs or internships in a the way. Although there are supposed to be
to balance home life and professional law office before making the enormous finan- consequences for that sort of conduct, rarely
life, it is rewarding and has a positive cial commitment that law school requires, or are sanctions ever imposed. This is bad for the
impact on my children. They enjoy during summers while in law school. I worked courts because cases linger in the system, and
hearing about my cases and are intel- in a law firm as a paralegal throughout col- it is bad for attorneys who follow the rules and
lectually curious about what I do. All lege, and had internships in the court system are left in the unenviable position of trying to
four of them speak positively about the and a law firm while in law school. This al- explain to clients how and why this is permit-
careers they hope to have one day and, lowed me to form more realistic expectations ted to happen. I would like to see judges more
most importantly, each one believes about what day-to-day life as an attorney is readily impose available penalties to deter
they can accomplish whatever they set like, and to make better decisions about my inexcusable delays.
out to achieve. career trajectory.
What is your favorite charity?
What is the best advice for someone What is one change you’d like to My favorite charity is God’s Love We Deliver,
considering a career in law? see in your industry? which cooks and delivers meals to people
The practice of law is not what it ap- The state courts in the New York metro- who, because of illness, are unable to prepare
pears to be on television, and even law politan area have an enormous caseload. their own meals.
Tony Dulgerian who is In-House Counsel at MetLife, previously federal court litigation, as well as administrative proceedings before
worked at Nixon Peabody LLP. As an associate at Nixon Peabody, various federal, state and local agencies. He has also guided clients
he represented employers in many industries, including health care, through various employment-related issues, including paid family
financial services, retail and educational clients. leave compliance, discipline and terminations, wage and hour
disputes, trade secret issues and accommodations. In addition, he
During his employment at Nixon Peabody, he mainly focused on has provided employee training designed to help his clients avoid
providing advice and counsel to employers and handling employment- litigation and manage risk.
related litigation.
Tony has represented employers in connection with state and
Q&a What is your proudest achievement? that attorneys handle. Work in a law firm to the philosophical questions that came
I graduated law school in 2010, if you can. Although the legal profession is up during class, which I discovered in the
during the height of the Great very challenging, it can also be very fulfilling practice of law and, more specifically, as an
Recession. Despite this timing, I built and rewarding if it’s right for you. I think it is employment attorney.
a strong and fulfilling career in this important to go into law school with your eyes
profession, for which I am very proud. wide open. What is your favorite place to
visit on Long Island?
Tony Dulgerian What is the best advice for someone Why did you choose a career Main Street in Farmingdale. I grew up and
considering a career in law? in the legal profession? currently live in Farmingdale and have seen
In-House Counsel, MetLife Make sure to do your due diligence What drew me to the legal profession was the town grow and develop into a hub of
before you start law school. Speak the combination of the intellectual rigor and activity.
aWarD Winner with as many attorneys as you can practicality of the work. As a philosophy major
to understand the day-to-day work in college, I yearned for definitive answers
consTanTina s. PaPageorgiou is a partner in Vishnick McGovern as her legal abilities are to her clients, it’s her genuine care that has
Milizio LLP’s Trust and Estate Practice, focusing on estate planning and helped her form lasting relationships.
administration and elder law. She joined the firm as an associate in 2013
and was promoted to partner in 2018, a meteoric rise, at the age of 33; The daughter of Cypriot emigrants and a first-generation college
also making her the youngest partner in the firm’s 50 years. graduate, she gives back to her community through ongoing pro bono
work, including legal education to groups and organizations such as
. Papageorgiou currently leads VMM’s elder law subpractice. Her retirement homes and churches. She is a member of the Queens County
ability to analyze and address complex legal matters, combined with her Women’s Bar Association and NYSBA’s Trust and Estates and Elder Law
outgoing personality, have made her a client favorite and an invaluable Sections and a board member of the Hellenic American Neighborhood
asset to the firm. She diligently and zealously represents her clients’ Action Committee and the Hellenic Lawyers Association.
interests, both in court and before government agencies. As important
Q&a What is the best advice for someone anyone here and barely speaking English. guage and pre-high school equivalency; work
considering a career in law? They worked long and hard in the restaurant training; child and family counseling; alcohol
consTanTina s. PaPageorgiou Do it because you LOVE it, not business, sometimes sleeping only a couple of and substance abuse counseling; crime victim
because you want to make money. hours a night during the busy holiday seasons. services; home repair; legal counseling; and
Partner, Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP Your knowledge and compassion show Despite it all, they motivated my sisters and many, many more. It’s a wonderful organiza-
through your work when you enjoy your me to work hard every day and to help people tion, a real force for good in the community,
aWarD Winner practice, and your clients and col- whenever and however we can. It’s through the and I’m grateful to be a part of it.
leagues are a lot more appreciative of it. work ethic and compassion they instilled in me
that I’ve been able to accomplish what I have. What is your favorite place to visit on Long
Who influenced/inspired you the Island?
most in your career? What is your favorite charity? Although I’m a Queens girl at heart, there
My parents are the most important I serve on the Board of Directors of the are so many wonderful things to explore on
influences in my life and my career. Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Long Island. For a long time, my favorite place
They both became refugees around Committee (HANAC), which was founded in to visit was the different North Fork wineries,
the age of 13, having lost everything in my hometown of Astoria, Queens. I’m a strong with a stop at Briermere Farms for some deli-
Northern Cyprus and having to start advocate of their mission to provide services cious pie!
all over again in a different part of Cy- and programs to the most vulnerable popula- Since we had our two daughters, we’ve de-
prus. They’ve still not returned to their tions. HANAC maintains senior residences with viated a bit from that to the many kid-friendly
homes, over 44 years later. At the age hundreds of subsidized units across Queens attractions like the local farms, the Riverhead
of 24 they came to America with about and provides a variety of programs like adult Aquarium, and whale watching. Lots of family
$60 in their pockets, without knowing literacy, including English as a Second Lan- adventures!
ToP BouTiQue FirM
Vishnick McgoVern been steadfastly committed to making life-
Milizio llP long client-attorney relationships. VMM truly
understands the importance of developing
aWarD Winner nurturing relationships built on mutual trust
with their clients. Never accepting anything
For 50 years, the law firm of Vishnick less than excellence, the attorneys go above
McgoVern Milizio llP has helped private and beyond the normal standards of ethics
and business clients ensure their wellbeing, and handle every case with the utmost
plan for their future, and protect their degree of enthusiasm, professionalism, and
interests. conviction.
A full-service firm with offices in Lake The firm proudly offers clients
Success, Manhattan, and Oakhurst, N.J., personalized legal strategies that are
VMM proudly maintains long-lasting specific to each case, utilizing cost-effective
relationships with clients over decades and representation, collaborative counsel
generations. among junior and senior lawyers and
The firm’s main areas of practice are Trusts cutting-edge research tools. VMM attorneys
and Estates, Business and Transactional Law, are passionate about what they do, with the
Employment Law, Commercial Litigation, realization of the direct impact our work has
Alternate Dispute Resolution, Real Estate on lives of clients, their businesses and their
Law, Exit Planning for Business Owners, loved ones. Operating within the highest
Elder Law, Family Law, Personal Injury, and ethical standards, every case is treated with
LGBT Representation. the full attention it deserves.
Since the firm’s inception in 1969, it has
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-25
1055302
1055016
S-26 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Congratulations to 1054679
all the
Top Lawyers of Long Island
Award Winners
including our founder
Ronald Fatoullah
Elder Law I Estate Planning I Medicaid Planning
Probate I Wills & Trusts I Guardianships
Special Needs Planning I Estate Litigation
1-877-ELDER LAW - 1-877-ESTATES
Long Island –Queens –Manhattan –Brooklyn
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-27
Labor & Employment Counselors
Sima AliCONGRATULATES
FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AS A
TOP LAWYER OF LONG ISLAND
Ali Law Group, PC 1055018
11 Prospect Street, Suite 1A, Huntington, NY 11743
631.423.3440 | www.alilawgroup.com
S-28 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
TOP LEGAL FIRMS
BASED By nuMBER OF LOnG ISLAnD EMPLOyEES
FORchELLI DEEGAn The Top 50 Construction Law Firms™ list. the firm’s quality leadership and personnel — striking and technologically advanced luxury
TERRAnA LLP In October 2018, FDT was a recipient of they’re what make this firm unique! office building.
Newsday’s Top Long Island Work Places The firm’s office space is on the top floor In its move from Mineola to the
AWARD WInnER award. Receiving this award is a testament to of RXR’s world‐class Omni, an architecturally Omni, careful attention was given to
creating a healthy work environment for
TOP LEGAL FIRM: 76+ EMPLOyEES employees, while simultaneously promoting
sustainable environmental practices for the
Founded in 1976, Forchelli Deegan general community. FDT is committed to
Terrana llP is one of Long Island’s environmental sustainability; a recognized
largest and most distinguished law firms. GreenLeader. The office space became LEED‐
Headquartered in Uniondale, the firm employs certified; awarded a Silver rating level for a
over 60 attorneys across more than a dozen commercial interior renovation.
practice groups committed to providing FDT is committed to the betterment of
exceptional service to a broad range of Long Island. Attorneys are proud to be involved
national, regional and local clients. in numerous transito‐ riented development
Among its many prestigious accolades, and revitalization projects, which aim to
FDT was named a winner in Long Island keep businesses and families on Long
Business News’ Reader Rankings contest Island. FDT participates in fundraisers, toy
as a Top Winner in the Best Construction, drives and walks, and makes food donations
Litigation and Real Property Tax Certiorari Law daily. Attorneys support regional notf‐ or‐profit
Firm categories. In July 2019, the Construction organizations by serving as volunteers or
practice group received a ranking in as members of committees and boards of
Construction Executive magazine’s inaugural directors.
nIxOn PEABODy LLP resolution, real estate and workforce issues. predict future legal challenges and smooth connections, forms alliances, identifies
Depth also brings differentiating experience the way. opportunities, and minimize risks. NP attorneys
AWARD WInnER such as top trial attorneys who handle With a uniquely pivotal role that connects effectively handle complex challenges in
complex litigation and class actions; a companies, regulators, funders, and leaders, litigation, real estate, corporate law and
TOP LEGAL FIRM: 26-75 EMPLOyEES nationally recognized health services team Nixon Peabody offers their clients a high- intellectual property.
serving the world’s most prestigious hospitals level partnership. Nixon Peabody creates
nixon PeaboDy is recognized as and medical centers; an M&A team capable of
exemplary global law firm with 16 offices handling complex, strategic and private equity
and over 600 attorneys, including New York transactions on either side of the deal; and
City and Long Island. Nixon Peabody sees industry leaders tracking the unique needs of
21st century law as a tool to help shape their higher education institutions and nonprofits.
clients’ futures. Their focus is on knowing what is important
Long Island businesses, universities, to clients now and next so the firm’s attorneys
research centers and health care institutions can foresee obstacles and opportunities
are thriving innovators. Nixon Peabody is in their space and smooth the way. Nixon
proud to be the largest full-service law firm Peabody ensures clients are equipped with
with a significant presence on Long Island, winning legal strategies as they navigate the
working side-by-side with them as their ideas exciting and challenging times we live in.
and companies grow. Nixon Peabody delivers high quality legal
The firm provides the practice diversity counsel for their clients’ needs right now, and
and deep bench on Long Island to address are always looking ahead to what’s next. The
a full range of business legal needs, from firm follows, and often help shapes, evolving
formation, financing and intellectual property legislation and see the key trends affecting
services needed by life sciences and other clients’ industries. NP teams monitor the
technology-driven businesses, to dispute political, economic and social landscape to
ThE hARRISOn LAW
GROuP, P.c.
AWARD WInnER
TOP LEGAL FIRM: 1-10 EMPLOyEES
The harrison law grouP, course of the past 30 years. We are
P.c. is a well-known, and respected focused on obtaining the maximum
personal injury law firm who is compensation for our clients while
exclusively dedicated to handing a helping them put their lives back
wide range of personal injury cases together after they have been injured.
which include but are not limited to The Harrison Law Group, P.C. has
motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall a strong reputation for negotiating
accidents, dog bites, traumatic brain claims and obtaining large
injuries, serious and catastrophic settlements without going to court
injuries, soft tissue injuries, unless absolutely necessary. Once
construction accidents, and many we do go to court we are known for
other injury cases. aggressively litigating each case to
We believe that successful obtain top verdicts. We treat cases
outcomes to cases begin with hiring on individual basis and will guarantee
the right firm. Ourw experience and that we will never settle your case just
financial resources has allowed to turn cases over but will dedicate
our firm to successfully win against the time and resources necessary to
large insurance companies over the build a strong case.
NYSI CONGRATULATES NEW YORK SPINE INSTITUTE
THE 2019 TOP LAWYERS MOVING BACKS FORWARD.
OF LONG ISLAND
516-329-9878
ALEXANDRE DE MOURA PETER PASSIAS ANGEL MACAGNO TIMOTHY ROBERTS SALVATORE CORSO JEFFREY GUTTMAN
M.D., F.A.A.O.S. M.D., F.A.A.O.S. M.D., F.A.A.O.S. M.D. M.D. M.D.
CERVICAL, LUMBAR CERVICAL, LUMBAR CERVICAL, LUMBAR CERVICAL, LUMBAR ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY
SPINE SPECIALIST, ADULT & PEDIATRIC SCOLIOSIS ADULT & PEDIATRIC SCOLIOSIS SPINE SPECIALIST AND ORTHOPAEDIC AND ORTHOPAEDIC
MEDICAL DIRECTOR SPORTS MEDICINE SPORTS MEDICINE
AND SPINAL DEFORMITY AND SPINAL DEFORMITY
SPECIALIST SPECIALIST
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH OF WORLD CLASS SURGEONS AND PHYSICIANS, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.NYSPINE.COM
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-29
TOUGH
LITIGATORS.
PROVEN
RESULTS.
Millions recovered on behalf of our clients in 2109 alone.
The attorneys at The Bell Law Group don’t back down
from a good fight, because acheiving the best possible
resolution for our clients is just the way we do business.
No wonder we’ve been named one of the Herald’s
Top Lawyers on Long Island.
Think we can help you? Call us for your free consultation.
Bell Law Group 1050843
PLLC
(855) JON-BELL • www.BELLLG.com
Garden City • Manhattan • Washington, DC
Labor & Employment • Personal Injury
#whosyourlawyer
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. PRIOR RESULTS DO NOT GUARANTEE A SIMILAR OUTCOME.
S-30 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
richnerlive.com HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-31
® FIRM
ADVANTAGE
LWAYS GREATER
1055026
OF ITS PARTS. THE WHOLE IS ALWAYS GREATER 516.248.1700
forchellilaw.com
elli Deegan Terrana our top-tier THAN THE SUM OF ITS PARTS.
lvers who work together across all
tive, practical solutions thatFDT007_Creative_10x13.875_LIBN_v4.indd 1 deliver A full-service law firm, at Forchelli Deegan Terrana our top-tier
dvantage our clients count on. attorneys are known problem solvers who work together across all
practice areas to develop innovative, practical solutions that deliver
real-world results. It’s the firm advantage our clients count on.
516.248.1700 11/2
forchellilaw.com
11/21/17 1:59 PM
S-32 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Thursday, September 26, 2019 liherald.com
Dime Community Bank
A Business Partner
committed to your
success.
Cash Management Solutions1 IOLA AND IOLTA ACCOUNTS
to Help Run Your Practice ACH ORIGINATION SERVICES
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Profitability and Cash Flow. POSITIVE PAY
REMOTE DEPOSIT CAPTURE
ONLINE BANKING & BILL PAY
BUSINESS MOBILE BANKING2
Dime Community Bank is the
best business bank in New York.
We’re also a Small Business Administration (SBA)
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years, we’ve been helping local businesses thrive.
The Dime Difference
When it comes to business banking, no bank provides the personal attention your firm needs like Dime.
We give you the dedication, follow-through and can-do attitude your company deserves. Your time,
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Dime Community Bank is a business partner committed to the success of your practice. Our relationship
managers help you through every phase of your business by providing customized financial solutions that
evolve with the needs of your business. We are always within reach to answer your questions and provide
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Our team is committed to your success. Proud Corporate Partner
Nassau County Bar Association
Dime Community Bank — Merrick Branch
Diane C. Duel
Assistant Vice President — Attorney Banking
1775 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566
Phone: 718-782-6200 ext. 5957
Email: [email protected]
1 All products subject to Dime approval. Dime Community Bank
2 Must have Dime Online Banking to use Dime Mobile Banking. Dime Mobile Banking App is available for select mobile devices. Mobile Banking is a free service
from Dime. However, your mobile carrier may charge for data and text message usage. Transfer of funds and bill payments from savings and money market
accounts are limited to six per monthly statement cycle.
Dime Community Bank
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