Issuu

September 2019

RICHNER richnerlive.com liherald.com 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.

Thank you to our sponsors:

VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO LLP

Labor & Employment Counselors

S-2 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019

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 and fiduciary services – including litigation support, tax compliance, estate and income tax planning, and court-prescribed accountings. Our Litigation and Valuation experts provide forensic accounting, fraud investigation, business and IP valuations, commercial damage calculations, expert testimony, and other litigation support services.

Lisa Rispoli, CPA, AEP, TEP

Partner, Trust & Estate Services Leader t: 516-336-2444 e: lrispoli@grassicpas.com

Sareena Malik Sawhney, MBA, CFE, MAFF, CAMS Principal; Fraud, Forensic & Litigation Services Leader t: 212-223-5029 e: ssawhney@grassicpas.com

Howard Fielstein, CPA/ABV/CFF, CFE, CIRA, CTP, ASA, CDBV Partner, Fraud, Forensic & Litigation Services t: 516-918-5918 e: hfielstein@grassicpas.com

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HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-3

T H E GOLD STANDARD IN CONSUMER LEGAL FUNDING

Golden Pear Funding is a leading provider of pre and post-settlement Consumer Legal Funding. We provide qualified clients with ample liquidity which may assist them in avoiding financial challenges, while providing exceptional personalized service.

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S-4 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019

liherald.com

YO U R C O L L E A G U E S AT

congratulate

M A I D E N B A U M & S T E R N B E R G, L L P

S H A L O M S . M A I D E N B A U M , E S Q. , I LY S E G. S T E R N B E R G, E S Q. , A M Y G. M A D M O N, E S Q. FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AS 2 0 1 9 P R E M I E R E T O P L AW Y E R S O F L O N G I S L A N D.

Shalom S. Maidenbaum, Esq.

Ilyse G. Sternberg, Esq.

Amy G. Madmon, Esq.

132 Spruce Street • Cedarhurst, New York 11516 • phone 516-569-8100 • fax 516-569-8105 • customerservice@msllplaw.com

1055297

Their outstanding expertise has helped thousands of Nassau County Homeowners successfully reduce their property taxes.

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HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND Jothy NareNdraN is a partner in Jaspan Schlesinger’s Banking and Financial Services Practice Group. She represents institutional lenders in financing commercial properties in transactions that include acquisition loans, construction loans, note purchases and sales, equipment financing, leasehold financing and multi-lender participation/syndicated financing. Jothy is a board member of the Board of Review for the New York State Board of Review of the Building Code for the Southern Region. She is also an adjunct professor at Touro Law College. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the New York Institute of Technology in 1987, a Master of Business Education from Hofstra University in 1992, and a Juris Doctor from the Jacob D. Fuschberg Law Center of Touro College in 1996. She is now involved in the Touro Alumni Association, assisting those young adults currently in law school. She was Alumni of the Month in September 2008 and

Jothy NareNdraN Partner, Jaspan Schlesinger LLP

Q&a

aWard WiNNer Area Of Practice

BaNkiNg & FiNaNce

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? I would like to see more flexibility for individuals raising a family while practicing law. The profession of law doesn’t have to be in an office 9 a.m.-8 p.m. The career has the ability to permit professionals to work and complete tasks remotely.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? You do not necessarily need to practice law to benefit from having a law degree, but having the degree opens up many opportunities in various fields. Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? Norman Wachtel was the attorney that

edward J. LoBeLLo is the Chair of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.’s Bankruptcy & Business Reorganization Department. He also practices in the Corporate Finance and Litigation & Dispute Resolution groups located in Garden City and in Manhattan. Edward concentrates his practice on business restructuring, bankruptcy reorganizations, work-outs, corporate finance, creditors’ rights and related litigation. For 15 consecutive years, Edward has been rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest level of professional excellence. From 2012-2018, he was recognized by New York Super Lawyers. In 2018, he authored the Local Bankruptcy Rules Toolkit (Eastern District of New York) published by Thomson Reuters’ Practical Law. The online publication compiles key resources for attorneys in the practice of bankruptcy law in the Eastern District of New York, including applicable statutes, rules, court procedures, and practice notes. In addition, he recently co-authored a book published by Westlaw,

edWard J. LoBeLLo Partner, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

Q&a

aWard WiNNer Area Of Practice

BaNkruptcy

What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement is my family. What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? My advice for someone considering a career in the law is to make sure that you get exposure to as many types of law as possible so that you may discover where your interests and talents may lie.

Q&a

Partner, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.

aWard WiNNer Area Of Practice

corporate

What is your proudest achievement? Building a successful career while helping raise four wonderful children who have become successful in their own right. The satisfaction I have received from whatever I have accomplished in my career is far outweighed by the satisfaction, pride and joy I receive in watching each of my four children succeed in raising families and building careers of their own.

represented the real estate developer I worked for and his intelligence and ability to navigate and negotiate a commercial real estate deal made me strive to be like him. What is your favorite charity? Spectrum Designs Foundation. I am the president of the board. The organization’s mission is to help individuals with autism lead full and productive lives through the world of work.

“Examiners in Bankruptcy Cases: A Guide for Examiners, Courts and Practitioners,” in conjunction with the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. Prior to joining the firm, Edward was a partner in the New York City office of a national law firm where he represented all major constituents in bankruptcy cases, including debtors in possession, creditors’ committees, committee members, institutional lenders, trade creditors, landlords, insurance companies, equipment lessors, asset purchasers, and preference defendants. Edward has represented clients in numerous large and significant Chapter 11 cases, including Chrysler LLC, General Motors Corp., Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc., Compania Mexicana de Aviacion, S.A. de C.V., Delta Air Lines, Inc., Solutia, Inc., A.P. Green Industries, Inc., US Gen New England, Inc. and Global Crossing, Ltd., among others.

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? I would like to see the legal profession and the business community emphasize having legal fees determined by value added rather than by the billable hour. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? My favorite place to visit on Long Island are the Long Island beaches.

IrvIN Brum’s practice focuses on the representation of entrepreneurs, high technology, and emerging growth companies in connection with mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, initial public offerings and debt financings. He represents major lending institutions in connection with their lending activities and is known for longstanding client relationships, personally servicing some of the firm’s largest public and private clients. A senior partner at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C., he is the chairman of the firm’s Corporate and Securities Department, the largest such practice group on Long Island. He is also a member of the Corporate Governance Practice Group. Irvin is a member of the board of directors of the Long Island Capital Alliance, the nation’s oldest venture capital group, and serves as its general counsel. He also serves on the boards of directors of

irviN Brum

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-5 also received Touro’s Public Service Attorney of the Year Award in April 2009. Jothy is also a recipient of the Long Island Business News’ 50 Most Influential Women Award. Jothy serves on the Nassau County Bar Association’s Real Property Law Committee, and volunteers with the mentoring program and pro bono clinic for seniors. She is also a member of the New York State and American Bar Associations. An active supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island for more than 10 years, she was the recipient of its Presidential Award at their 2007 Presidential Gala. She recently was appointed a member of the Board of Directors and Board President of Spectrum Designs Foundation Ltd., a notfor-profit corporation that provides employment and training for individuals with autism.

Advancement for Commerce, Industry and Technology (ACIT), which is one of Long Island’s largest business development organizations, and Blackman Plumbing. He is frequently sought after by the media for his insights, and has been quoted by the New York Times, Newsday, Long Island Business News and other publications. Irvin has been consistently named by Long Island Business News as one of Long Island’s top corporate and securities lawyers in its Who’s Who in Law section. He has also been honored as the winner of the prestigious ExecuLeaders Award for Excellence in Law and LIBN’s Leadership in Law Award. For more than 30 years, he has been a sought after lecturer on a wide variety of topics including mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, venture capital, ESOPs, succession planning and other corporate and securities law topics.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? A career in law is both rewarding and demanding, but you can absolutely succeed without giving up your principles or your humanity. What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? More collegiality among attorneys would be helpful. Although most attorneys are professional, too many attorneys see

everything as a zero-sum game where their client can only win if someone else’s client loses. The good news is that most attorneys realize there are better ways to serve their clients. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I wanted to work in an intellectually demanding environment while at the same time deal with people on issues that are often 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,medical personnel,construction companies,or automobile 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

ROBERT V. FALLARINO FOR RECEIVING THE 2019 HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND AWARD

1 Hollow Lane, Suite 107 Lake Success, NY 11042 www.pegalislawgroup.com

S-6 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

AllAn H. CoHen Office Managing Partner – Long Island Nixon Peabody LLP

AWArD WInner Area Of Practice

Thursday, September 26, 2019 AllAn H. CoHen is the Office Managing Partner of the Long Island Office of Nixon Peabody, an international law firm with 16 offices and over 600 attorneys. He represents a variety of companies, ranging from large public entities, to mid-sized closely held and family-owned business, to technology-based startups. Allan dedicates much of his practice to mergers and acquisitions, including buy-side work and sell-side work to strategic and private equity acquirors. Allan also works with emerging companies in the formation and organization of their businesses and seed, angel and VC financings. He is involved in a wide range of industries, including health care, manufacturing and distribution, food and beverage, medical device, life sciences and biotechnology, and consumer products. Allan distinguishes himself by his adeptness at handling his clients’ varied business needs and providing the type of outside counsel that businesses would expect from an in-house general counsel. His clients view him as the “quarterback,” ensuring that not only their business law, but also their employment, litigation, intellectual property, regulatory and other legal needs are met. Allan has received much recognition from Long Island-based and

Q&A

CorporAte

What is your proudest achievement? Being named managing partner of Nixon Peabody’s Long Island office. What is your best advice for someone considering a career in law? Focus your studies not just on the law, but also business and psychology. So much of being a good lawyer has nothing to do with what’s in the law books.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I got hooked by “To Kill a Mockingbird” and the profession’s selfless dedication to justice. Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My father. He didn’t go to college, but was intent on ensuring that his children had the resources to do whatever they wanted to do.

AdAm P. SilverS serves as Managing Partner of Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C., and is a member of the firm’s Corporate & Securities Department and Intellectual Property and Technology Group. Adam’s long record of accomplishments as a sophisticated corporate and securities attorney resulted in his being named a partner of the law firm in 2003; he is one of the youngest associates named partner there. Adam regularly counsels both private and publicly-traded companies. He has successfully handled a wide range of complex transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, public offerings, private placements and venture capital financings, joint venture and partnership agreements, as well as software licensing and development agreements, among other areas. In 2003, Adam cofounded the CFO Roundtable, a by-invitationonly monthly gathering of Long Island’s top CFOs. In guiding this new organization, at which CFOs share best practices and discuss

ADAm p. SIlverS

Q&A

Managing Partner, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.

AWArD WInner Area Of Practice

CorporAte

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? The best advice I can give someone who is presently considering a career as an attorney is to be passionate and focused about their career, but ultimately seek balance in your life. The life of a lawyer, especially in private practice, is rarely an easy one. It can be unpredictable and unforgiving, but ultimately can be very rewarding, both personally and professionally. But I

Of Counsel Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP

AWArD WInner Area Of Practice

CorporAte

Q&A

What is your proudest achievement? I am very proud that I have become an effective advocate for my clients due to the experience and expertise that I have obtained over many years of practice. What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Anyone considering a career in law

mutual business issues, Adam has helped create a stimulating, rewarding environment for attendees. In recognition of his many accomplishments, Long Island Business News honored Adam with its prestigious 40 Under 40 award in 2006. A member of the Nassau County Bar Association, Adam has lectured frequently before the Suffolk County Bar Association; he is also a featured lecturer at CLE programs on topics ranging from corporate governance, executive compensation, securities matters as well as intellectual property and software licensing issues. Adam has written articles published in the firm’s Corporate and Securities Update. Adam has been actively involved with Child Abuse Prevention Services and the American Heart Association, having chaired their annual Long Island Heart Ball Gala. He also serves on the Board Supervisory Committee of Bethpage Federal Credit Union.

would caution a new newly minted attorney against allowing their career from becoming all-consuming. Always remember your priorities in life – family and friends. The work will always be there. Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My partners did. The senior partners in my firm hired me, taught me, mentored me and groomed me. They were and still are outstanding role models. Those partners who I came

dermond THomAS has years of experience advising sovereign nations and some of the most recognized companies across the globe. He brings a valuable business perspective to all matters he handles at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP. Dermond has helped sovereign nations and businesses achieve their goals from both a legal and a strategic point of view and understands what it takes to get results. Dermond has advised clients on matters including mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate and public finance, commercial agreements, corporate strategy, implementation of business development initiatives, shareholder engagement, and corporate governance. Prior to joining CMM, Dermond was Director, Corporate Counsel, and Assistant Secretary at a multibillion-dollar industrial distributor, where he handled a variety of corporate legal matters and governance initiatives. Dermond spent the early years of his career at

DermonD tHomAS

liherald.com statewide publications. Most recently, he was awarded the Champion for Children and Families Award by Variety Child Learning Center. In 2018, he was named to the Long Island Press Power List of the 50 Most Influential People on Long Island. He also received the 2015 Cornerstone Award by the Lawyers’ Alliance for New York, for his pro bono work for the Harlem Dowling-West Side Center for Children & Family Services. In 2014, he received the Leadership in the Law Award by the Long Island Business News. He was also selected as a Long Island Pulse “2013 Legal Eagle” in the area of Corporate, Contracts & Business Law, based on peer nomination. Allan has been selected for inclusion in New York Super Lawyers in numerous years, based on peer-review surveys. He is also a past recipient of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s MS Leadership Award, and has served as Chair of the American Heart Association Long Island Heart Ball and an Honorary Chair of the Family and Children’s Association Awards Committee. Allan is a graduate of Binghamton State University and Columbia Law School, at which he was named a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar.

up through the ranks with also served as examples of how to succeed. We all share the same values which translate into a client-centric focus in what we do. Those close relationships and values are what make our firm so successful and strong. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Montauk. We’ve had a number of great family vacations there.

two Am Law 100 firms where he first developed his deep corporate transactional experience. Dermond was recently re-elected to his third term as a Trustee in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream. The first African-American ever to serve in this position, Dermond has focused on fostering good and transparent government, maintaining the Village’s integrity, cultivating new ways to enhance the lives of residents, and facilitating the use of Village resources to improve recreational programming. He graduated from Columbia University School of Law, where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. Dermond is an Adjunct Professor at Hofstra University’s Maurice A. Deane School of Law and served as a lecturer in corporate ethics at Columbia University School of Law. He is on the Board of Directors of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County and was formerly on the Board of Directors, Nassau County Interim Finance Authority (NIFA).

should do their best to ensure that the issues they choose to address and the types of clients they choose to represent are consistent with their own passions and values. What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? I’d like to see corporate lawyers lend their expertise to small businesses and non-profits on a more frequent basis.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I chose a career in the legal profession because it gives me an opportunity to be an advocate while performing intellectually challenging work.

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!

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HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-7

TOP LAWYERS TOP FIRM Weâ€™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.

Richa Naujoks

Tony Dulgerian

50 Jericho Quadrangle Jericho, NY nixonpeabody.com @Nixonpeabodyllp 1055028

Allan Cohen

S-8 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 JosEpH G. miLizio is the Managing Partner of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP and the founder of its groundbreaking LGBTQ Representation Practice, one of the first in the nation. He also heads the firm’s Business and Transactional Law and Exit Planning for Business Owners Practices. Joseph is a trusted advisor and provides legal counsel, representation, and education to the LGBTQ community in a wide variety of civil rights issues, including workplace discrimination, real estate discrimination, marriage equality, adoption rights, and other matters. He is the co-chair of the Nassau County Bar Association LGBTQ Committee; a member of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC)

Q&A Joseph G. Milizio Managing Partner Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

AWARD WiNNeR Area Of Practice

Civil RiGhts

What is your proudest achievement? Being the father of three very wonderful children. I have watched them grow into caring, responsible adults with great lives, I learn something from them every day and I hope that they can say the same about me. What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? As the world around us becomes more complex, it’s necessary to focus

eDWARD l. liebeRMAN Principal Edward L. Lieberman, P.C.

AWARD WiNNeR

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? From my earliest years I wanted to become an attorney, in essence to follow the profession of my maternal grandfather who was also my namesake.

Area Of Practice

CRiMiNAl

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? As a young attorney, Ed Dweck, a lawyer with significantly more experience, befriended me. We subsequently became law partners

leslie h. tAyNe Founder/Head Attorney Tayne Law Group, P.C.

AWARD WiNNeR

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Law always changes, and so does your career. Be brave enough to explore opportunities and be bold enough to network and get out there to meet colleagues and help build and perpetuate the practice of law. Always remember to be fair, honest and giving because you will lead always with your reputation. As for dealing with clients, what you’ll need the most is patience. What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? Debt resolution law is an industry that’s often misunderstood. Given the stereotype of attorneys themselves and

Area Of Practice

Debt

Founding Partner The Altarac Law Firm, PLLC

Q&A

AWARD WiNNeR

What is the best advice for someone choosing a career in law? Prior to choosing a field in which to specialize, make certain that you are interested in the area of law selected.

DivoRCe, MeDiAtioN & MAtRiMoNy

Founding Partner Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq., PLLC

AWARD WiNNeR Area Of Practice

DivoRCe, MeDiAtioN & MAtRiMoNy

international banks and credit agencies for loans, lines of credit, credit cards, and student loans. Leslie is frequently sought out for her expertise on financial, credit and debt topics in the media; and as a speaker, she regularly provides insight and strategies regarding all areas of debt and credit-related solutions to outlets like the Huffington Post, Yahoo Finance, US News and World Report, MSN, among others.

then adding the debt resolution piece makes it even more challenging. Many people assume all debt resolution firms are scams and lack trust to really commit to the process. What I would like to see more of is consistent regulation of fly-by-night debt scams and pop-up companies who circumvent the law with new ideas regularly. The reality is that more legitimate firms are out there doing the right thing, but the few bad apples spoil the bunch. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? It was always a profession I admired. My father was an attorney, and I watched how people respected him and admired his skills and intellect. I just knew I was going to be an attorney. Later on, when I actually made it to

law school, I had an opportunity to see the benefits I could provide to clients, and I always wanted to do something where I could help people. What is your favorite charity? I am on the board for both the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs and am very passionate about the work I do with them. I regularly foster puppies who are going to be trained to be service dogs for those in need. To date, I’ve probably had over 50 dogs and love the mission to help those less fortunate with an opportunity to live life to the fullest with a service dog. Not only do I get to nurture and help the dogs, but I get to give them all of my love knowing they will do the same for their person in need to improve their quality of life.

A strong advocate for her clients, Jill works with them to obtain the most favorable outcome in a cost-effective and expedited fashion. She makes certain that their rights are protected throughout the matrimonial proceedings. Jill has served as a distinguished lecturer for the National Business Institute, and New York Life Insurance and the Professional Speaker’s Bureau, Inc. While Jill understands that all children’s financial interests should be protected throughout divorce proceedings, she is especially cognizant that the rights of special needs children must be addressed, on a case by case basis, so that their necessary services are maintained and continue. She makes certain that the financial provisions, as set forth in the legal document, are tailored to the individual child’s needs.

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? I would like to see more civility between the attorneys.

Kim ciEsinsKi has focused exclusively on Divorce and Family Law for over 25 years. She represents clients in matters including custody, parenting time schedules, spousal maintenance, child support, distribution of assets, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, as well as post-judgment proceedings. She now focuses her practice on collaborative divorce, mediation and negotiated settlements as alternatives to litigation for all issues, to offer families an expedient, cost-effective and positive option for resolving their issues and restructuring from a nuclear to a bi-nuclear family. Divorce does not have to result in destruction! Kim, who earned a Juris Doctor from Hofstra University School of Law in 1989, is certified in mediation from the Ackerman Institute for the Family and trained in Collaborative Interdisciplinary Practice from the New York Association of Collaborative Professionals. Kim serves on the Advisory Board for Hofstra Law School’s Center for Children,

Q&A

What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? My favorite place is Sea Cliff, where I am the mayor.

What is your favorite charity? North Shore Autism Circle.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I enjoy being in a position in which I can assist others through difficult circumstances.

Area Of Practice

KiM M. CiesiNsKi

What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Any small town or village. There’s no better way to gauge the pulse of the economy than to visit a local village, see what retailers people are patronizing and what they are doing for entertainment. I’m constantly impressed by the Island’s revitalization efforts.

What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement was early in my career when I was named the Chief of the Civil Rights Unit of the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office.

JiLL aLTarac is the founding partner in The Altarac Law Firm. She received her B.A. in Psychology, graduating with high distinction, from the University of Michigan in 1992. In 1995, Jill received her law degree from Brooklyn Law School and was subsequently admitted to practice in New York in 1996. Since then Jill has concentrated solely in the field of matrimonial and family law. Jill was accepted as a member of the American Inns of the Court, an organization that consists of the most pristine matrimonial attorneys in Long Island. She is recognized as a specialist in matrimonial law, serving as a member of the Nassau County Bar Association, its Family Law Committee and Custody and Family Law Subcommittee; the New York State Bar Association/Matrimonial Family Law Committee; and the American Bar Association Matrimonial/Family Law Committee. She is also a member of the Nassau County Women’s Bar Association.

Jill AltARAC

and he taught me to be a good lawyer and how to relate to clients with compassion and understanding.

misdemeanor and felony level cases. He became a senior trial attorney in the County Court and Special Investigation Bureaus and was also Chief of the Civil Rights Unit. Having fulfilled his term commitment to the District Attorney’s office, Edward brought his advocacy skills and criminal law background to the criminal defense bar. Through the years he has tried misdemeanor and serious felony cases involving all classifications of charges. Currently the Mayor of Sea Cliff, Edward is a former member of the Board Of Directors of Life’s WORC and the Long Island Urban League and past District Governor of Lions Clubs International.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? Denis Dillon, the Nassau County District Attorney for whom I served under, influenced and inspired me the most in my career.

LEsLiE H. TaynE, Esq. is an award-winning financial attorney and author of “Life & Debt.” Leslie is the founder and managing director of Tayne Law Group, P.C., a law firm headquartered in New York dedicated to debt solutions. She has over 20 years of experience in consumer and business financial debt solutions, which include negotiations with large

Q&A

New York Steering Committee; and a longtime supporter of the Long Island Crisis Center Pride for Youth initiative, which named him “2017 Person of the Year.” Under his leadership, VMM engages in numerous pro bono and community outreach projects in support of LGBTQ civil rights. Recently, these have included sponsoring CUNY Pridefest; Queens College’s LGBTQ “Train the Trainer” programs and GLASA (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Alliance) club; volunteer advising and lecturing in Queens College’s LGBTQ Studies minor; and cosponsoring HRC’s annual NY Golf Outing & Dinner fundraiser.

on becoming the best in your chosen field. That means having a well-rounded background which allows one to pull from experiences, but it also means to focus on the one aspect of the law that will make you the recognized professional in your area of practice.

Edward L. LiEbErman has been in private law practice specializing in Criminal Defense Law since 1982. His education and career path has continuously been focused on the practice of criminal law with an emphasis on successful courtroom advocacy. Edward entered the Hofstra University School of Law where he was selected to an internship at the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office. After receiving his Juris Doctor degree, he continued his formal legal education at New York University School of Law and received a Master of Laws Degree in Criminal Justice. While attending NYU he was appointed as an Assistant District Attorney in Nassau County. During his tenure as an Assistant District Attorney from 1978-1982 he prosecuted and tried multiple

Q&A

liherald.com

What is your proudest achievement? Building my law practice while raising three daughters as a single mom.

Families and the Law, and as a member of the Hofstra University Women in Leadership Initiative she mentors young women. Kim assists in resolving highly contentious matrimonial cases before trial as a Special Master for the Nassau County Supreme Court. Having a keen interest in social justice, Kim is a graduate and member of the Energeia Partnership at Molloy College. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Hofstra Law School. Kim has co-authored “Stress Free Divorce, Volume 3” to raise public awareness about the collaborative divorce process. She is a frequent presenter and radio guest, as well as a quoted source in the press. Among her many accolades, Kim has been designated a “20172019 Super Lawyer” and has received an AV rating from MartindaleHubbell Peer Review Ratings, the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Maintaining work/life balance is something you must always be mindful of. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I became a lawyer to help people through their darkest times.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? Judge Gail Prudenti.. What is your favorite charity? Girls, Inc. and The Red Cross.

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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.

Garden City Office

Suffern Office

300 Garden City Plaza, 5th Floor, Garden City, NY 11530 Tel: (516) 746-8000

56 Park Avenue, Suffern, NY 10901 Tel: (845) 357-0036

1054422

Your best interests. Our best thinking.

S-10 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 Jerome A. WisselmAn, esq., founder of Wisselman, Harounian & Associates, P.C. in 1976, has maintained high standards of professional integrity and achievement for over 40 years in practice of matrimonial and family law. He places emphasis on providing excellent client service and delivering smart solutions and successful results for his clients. Recognizing the importance of having sufficient resources to handle complicated litigation matters, he built a firm that is named as one of the Best Law Firms by US News & World Report, and he is named as one of the Best Lawyers in New York by The Wall Street Journal. In addition, he has been designated as a Top 100 New York Metro Super Lawyer. His background in accounting and tax law helps him effectively

Jerome A. WisselmAN

Q&A

Managing Partner Wisselman, Harounian & Associates P.C.

AWArD WiNNer Area Of Practice

Divorce, meDiAtioN & mAtrimoNy

What is your proudest achievement? Building a formidable matrimonial law firm that enables us to provide first rate representation for clients going through one of the most difficult periods in their lives. What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Don’t wait to experience what a career

in law can be like. Seek an internship with a law firm while in college; experience it firsthand, and determine if it’s a good match for you. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? Having begun my professional career in accounting, I soon felt that law could be more dynamic and more meaningful. While both assist clients, I felt that a law career would

lynn m. BroWn began her career at Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. in 2000 as an associate and was promoted to Of Counsel in 2003. Ms. Brown has been involved in all aspects of state and federal litigation, with particular emphasis on complex commercial disputes, including contract and partnership disputes, corporate break-ups, antitrust, intellectual property and fraud actions, matters concerning wrongful termination, restrictive covenants, unfair competition and other business torts, as well as construction law matters, defamation cases, landlord-tenant disputes, and professional liability and malpractice claims. She has handled traditional litigation matters on the trial and appellate levels, and arbitrations and mediations. Ms. Brown has represented a major tobacco company, publicly-traded and multi-million dollar corporations, as well as numerous closely-

lyNN m. BroWN Of Counsel Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

Q&A

AWArD WiNNer Area Of Practice

eDucAtioN

What is your proudest achievement? Raising my severely learning disabled child to be an independent adult. He went from a child unable to learn the alphabet, to going to college, living on his own and having both friends and a fiancé. A lot of hard work has paid off.

roNAlD FAtoullAh, esQ. Founder, Ronald Fatoullah & Associates

AWArD WiNNer Area Of Practice

elDer lAW

melissA NegriN-WieNer Partner, Genser Cona Elder Law

AWArD WiNNer

What is your proudest achievement? I would have to say that my proudest achievement is having two wonderful sons and recently becoming the grandfather of a beautiful little girl. It is as if being a father and grandfather gives you a second chance at life. What is the one change you would like to see in your industry? As an elder law attorney that helps individuals pay for long-term care and receive Medicaid, I see the devastating effects of the high cost of long-term care in nursing homes and at home

Q&A

Area Of Practice

elDer lAW

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? I have always been of the opinion that success begins at home. I have a loving and supportive family and growing up, my parents always told me I could do anything I put my mind to.

Q&A

richA NAuJoks

Partner, Nixon Peabody LLP

AWArD WiNNer Area Of Practice

emergiNg compANies & cApitAl

What is your proudest achievement? Law firms are making great strides in achieving greater diversity and inclusion. Our firm, for instance, participates in the Mansfield rule, the industry gold standard that ensures that women and minorities are considered for leadership roles within the firm. In fact, our firm has achieved Mansfield Certified Plus status for achieving the goal of having women and minority attorneys comprise at least 30 percent of our major leadership roles. I also believe that the legal industry as a whole can do more and I would love to see more players in the field taking an aggressive stand to encourage diversity and inclusion.

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? It’s a change I have seen — the recognition that there can be too much time spent at work. Families of lawyers have reaped the benefits that didn’t exist when I first began practicing law, especially for women lawyers.

generations as well. What is your favorite charity? My own mother suffered from dementia, and for the last seven years of her life, she really did not recognize me. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive illness. For 20 years I have served on the legal Committee of the Board of the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter and am currently a Co-Chair of its Board of Directors. The Alzheimer’s Association is in aggressive pursuit of a world without Alzheimer’s and is the world’s leading nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research, providing support for family and caregivers.

Named by Long Island Business News as one of the “Top 50 Women in Business,” Melissa is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and honors. These include LIBN “40 Under 40 Rising Stars on Long Island” and Outstanding Pro Bono Attorney from Touro Law School. She has been featured in Long Island Business News and profiled in the Suffolk Lawyer for her charitable works, including on behalf of Senior Dreams Come True, a nonprofit run by GDGC that grants wishes for low-income seniors. A frequent lecturer at professional organizations, assisted living facilities and senior citizens groups, she has authored numerous professional articles. Melissa serves as chair of Genser Cona Charitable Events, a notfor-profit organization committed to enhancing the quality of life for the elderly, disabled and the underprivileged, among her many charitable efforts and community outreach.

What is your favorite charity? Senior Dreams Come True, which is the signature program of Genser Cona Elder Law’s charitable initiatives. Senior Dreams Come True grants wishes to low income seniors on Long Island, from granting a basic need to fulfilling a lifelong dream..

richA nAuJoks is a partner at Nixon Peabody LLP, focusing on corporate and securities transactions. She represents early-stage and later stage companies in corporate transactions through the various stages of a business, from incorporation to capital-raising, to eventual exit for the founders and investors. A significant portion of Richa’s work involves cross-border corporate transactions, supporting early-stage and mid-size

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? I would like to see a changed mindset by adversaries to work together to help clients through issues, while still protecting their clients’ interests, rather than fighting each other and being unnecessarily combative.

Ronald currently serves on the Executive Council of AARP New York. He is the immediate past President of the New York Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NY-NAELA) and he chaired NAELA’s Public Policy and Public Relations Committees for many years. He is Co-Chair of the Financial Planning and Investments Committee of the Elder Law and Special Needs Section of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA). He also currently serves as CoChair of the Board of the Alzheimer’s Association LI Chapter.

with home care. This includes the exorbitant cost of prescription drugs. I hope to see and work toward affordable long-term options as a benefit to all citizens in our great country. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? When I first started college, I was interested in social work because I wanted to be able to help people, especially those individuals who could not help themselves. But I transitioned into elder law because I felt that I could reach more people and have a greater impact. I saw the law as a platform to not only help individuals but to improve the lives of future

melissA negrin-Wiener manages Genser Cona Elder Law’s Government Benefits Department, concentrating her practice in the areas of asset protection, Medicaid eligibility planning, estate planning, Mediation, guardianships and Veterans benefits. She supervises preparation of Medicaid applications for nursing home care, home health care and community benefits, resolves complex Medicaid issues, and represents families facing a reduction in Medicaid home care hours and services. Melissa currently serves as co-chair of the Healthcare Committee of the Hauppauge Industrial Association of Long Island. She is a State Certified Court Examiner, Court Evaluator and Counsel to Guardian and incapacitated persons and is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs. She is also an Advanced Elder Law Mediator trained by the New York Peace Institute and serves as a Mediator on the Nassau County Bar Association Alternative Dispute Resolution Panel.

give me the opportunity to help clients with important issues.

held corporations and business professionals. Ms. Brown is a founding member of the firm’s Education Law practice, an outgrowth of her own experiences as the parent of a special-needs child. She routinely appears before the Committees on Special Education of numerous Long Island school districts, and in connection with impartial (due process) hearings, securing timely educational evaluations, services and accommodations for learningdisabled children under federal and state law. Ms. Brown also appears on behalf of students in connection with disciplinary matters, including long and short-term suspensions. Ms. Brown frequently gives presentations to parent and professional groups, including PTAs, regarding the rights of children with disabilities.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Try to maintain a healthy work/life balance. Put everything you’ve got into your career, but try to turn work off as you step back into your home. Your epitaph should not be, “I wish I had more billable hours.”

ronAld FAtoullAh, esq., CELA, is the founder and managing attorney of Ronald Fatoullah & Associates, a law firm focusing on Elder Law, Estate Planning and Special Needs Planning. Ronald and his firm are known for their outstanding services to the senior citizen and special needs communities. He is an award-winning elder law attorney who has been recognized in New York Magazine as one of “The New York Area’s Super Lawyers” for 11 consecutive years as well as a 13-year inclusion as one of the “Best Lawyers” in New York.

Q&A

liherald.com handle complex financial issues. Jerome created and conducts ongoing legal workshops for mental health professionals, enabling them to better assist patients going through matrimonial litigation, and he also created support groups for people going through separation or divorce, as well as post-divorce issues held on a monthly basis, to discuss issues of concern in their matters. He was on the Board of Editors of the New York Family Law Monthly, where he was a regular contributor from 2006-2015, and was on the Board of Editors of the Matrimonial Strategist from 2015-2017. He has also lectured on grandparental matters, has written on these issues for the New York State Bar Association, and has contributed to legislative efforts in this area of law.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? Helping people has always been my passion. As an attorney in Elder Law and Estate Planning, I have the opportunity to do this every single day.

companies from other countries to establish a presence in the U.S., through acquisitions, joint ventures or reincorporation in the U.S. Although industry agnostic, several of Richa’s clients are technology companies, creating solutions in the artificial intelligence, big data, retail tech, health tech and life sciences industries. Richa is on the board of TiENY, a nonprofit organization that supports entrepreneurs by offering education, mentorship, networking and funding opportunities.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? The decision to go to law school has more to do with John Grisham and “L.A. Law” than I care to admit. However, I soon realized that what made for exciting reading or viewing was not the kind of law I wanted to practice. The reason I became a transactional lawyer, and what continues to drive me, is the excitement of learning the ins and outs of a company and industry during the course of a representation. What is your favorite charity? There are so many worthy causes, it is hard to narrow down to one but I will narrow it down to two organizations that I am deeply involved in — a global not-for-profit called TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs), and Acumen. TiE works to foster entrepreneurship,

including through mentoring startup founders, and creating a community where they can connect with much-needed talent and capital. Acumen is a global nonprofit changing the way the world tackles poverty by investing in sustainable businesses, leaders and ideas. I am proud to be on the Board of the New York chapter of TiE, and to provide pro bono legal services to Acumen. The common theme, which admittedly resonates with me, is supporting businesses that can act as engines of growth within their communities. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? My favorite place on Long Island (and quite possibly the world) is Brookhaven, where my son, who is adopted, was born.

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

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1055036

Environmental Compliance

S-12 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 lindsey M. alBinski is a Partner at Winkler Kurtz LLP, known for her tireless commitment to individuals seeking resolutions for matrimonial and family matters. Her ability to guide her clients through a difficult time in their lives with knowledge and sensitivity has secured her countless successful outcomes for her clients and their families. Lindsey prides herself on providing personal attention to each client. By obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the client’s goals and needs, Lindsey diligently represents their interests through effective litigation procedures, preparing them trial proceedings whenever the need may arise. Lindsey aggressively protects the rights of all her clients to help obtain the best possible outcomes during a painful and stressful period in their lives.

Q&A Lindsey M. ALbinski Partner, Winkler Kurtz, LLP

AwARd winneR Area Of Practice

FAMiLy LAw

What is your proudest achievement? I am most proud of how I have navigated the challenges of family and a career. I attended law school with two young children and had my third child in my final year. I am now a partner in a law firm that I am extremely proud to be a part of. I have demonstrated for my daughter that it is possible to be a career minded person as well as an involved mother.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Consider personal lifestyle goals when choosing the areas of law you would like to practice. I think many new attorneys determine what area of law they would like to focus on based off their academic strengths and weaknesses. However, each area of law comes with unique challenges to the attorney’s

Joseph trotti is the head of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP’s Matrimonial and Family Law Practice and a leader of its LGBTQ Representation Practice. He is the founding partner of the VMM Family Institute℠, where he’s pioneered the application of Collaborative Law, an approach used in corporate dispute resolution, to domestic cases. His practice empowers families to make informed decisions regarding their future while avoiding the emotional and financial toll associated with courtroom battles. For his pioneering work, the New York Law Journal named him a “2019 Trailblazer,” one of a handful of attorneys statewide selected for the prestigious recognition.

Q&A Joseph TRoTTi Partner, Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

AwARd winneR Area Of Practice

What is your proudest achievement? On several occasions I was retained very late in the proceedings — I was perhaps the third or fourth attorney retained by the client — but was able to salvage what had appeared to be matters that couldn’t be settled. Securing a positive result for a previously dissatisfied client, and without the need for trial, is always a point of pride.

FAMiLy LAw

JoeL M. GReenbeRG Partner, Frier Levitt Attorneys At Law, LLP

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Work hard; return all your phone calls the same day; show empathy for your clients.

AwARd winneR Area Of Practice

heALThcARe

siMA ALi Owner and Principal Attorney Ali Law Group, P.C.

AwARd winneR

What is your proudest achievement? Being able to give back to my community and to help those in need.

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? Chiefly, the adversarial nature involved in litigation. Arguments and hearings concerning points of law are fascinating, but they’re

Area Of Practice

LAboR & eMpLoyMenT

What is your proudest achievement? I am most proud of starting my own law firm. It was a risk and a challenge and big unknown. At the end of the day has been the best thing for me. I have been able to practice law the way I want and be a business owner.

JonAThAn beLL Owner/Attorney Bell Law Group, PLLC

AwARd winneR Area Of Practice

LAboR & eMpLoyMenT

What is your proudest achievement? My greatest achievement is creating and developing the Bell Law Group, PLLC into one of the top labor and employment law firms in New York. I carefully selected the best staff, from my partners Darryn Solotoff and Nathalie Bell to each of our associates, including the paralegals and administrative staff.

often marred by personality conflicts. It rarely serves the clients’ best interest. It’s why I’ve incorporated Collaborative Law and Mediation, an approach usually used in corporate dispute resolution. I strongly believe it can and should replace 99 percent of trials, which are financially and emotionally draining and, more often than not, unnecessary. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? A lifelong fascination with the complexity of the law and the satisfaction of representing individuals in need of assistance.

providers encounter daily. Joel served as the managing editor of the New York Health Law Update from 1998 through 2003 and was the chairman of the Hospital and Health Law Committee of the Nassau County Bar Association from 2000 to 2002. He is also co-editor in chief of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th editions of the Legal Manual for New York Physicians, which is a collaborative publication by the New York State Bar Association and the Medical Society of the State of New York. Joel will also be serving in this capacity in connection with the upcoming 6th edition of this two-volume treatise. Joel is also an Adjunct Professor of Health Law at SUNY College at Old Westbury.

ARTh

Partner, Campolo

What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Our magnificent beaches, especially those on Fire Island.

AwA

Area Of P

LAboR

critical guidance to understanding the intricate and often complex laws and regulations. Sima received her B.S. from Cornell University, NY School of Industrial and Labor Relations and her J.D. from George Washington University School of Law. After establishing her career as a Labor and Employment attorney, she launched the Ali Law Group in 2011. She was honored by Long Island Business News with the Diversity in Business Award and the Top 50 Women in Business Award, among her numerous awards and honors. Her professional affiliations include Board Member of Suffolk County Women’s Bar Association; Member and Former Chair of the Suffolk County Bar Association’s Labor & Employment Committee and Academy Officer; Huntington Lawyers Club Member; Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York Member. She is an engaging speaker who presents seminars on employment law throughout the New York metropolitan area.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I have always been curious and a problem solver and I love reading and history. It truly fits my personality and intellectual strengths. What is your favorite charity? PinkAid (www.pinkaid.org).

Jonathan Bell is a labor and employment attorney and the owner of Bell Law Group, PLLC. The firm has expanded significantly since he started it in 2002 as a solo-practitioner, due to his unwavering commitment to his client and their cases. Jonathan’s devotion to his clients, including his honest feedback and approach to their cases have resulted in better than anticipated results. He manages the firm and ensures that each attorney and staff he hires shares his personal passion and desire to obtain the best possible result for his clients. Whether a federal employee, private sector employee or an employer/management, Jonathan has one goal in mind: do the best job for his client and outperform the job anyone of his competitors could have done under the circumstances.

Q&A

What is your favorite charity? My favorite charity is St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. People often say that there is nothing more important than your health but the truth is there is nothing more important that your children’s health.

Who influenced you the most in your career? My family.

siMa ali, esq., is owner and principal attorney of Ali Law Group, P.C., a boutique firm that provides the full range of representative services in labor and employment law. Her practice focuses on labor and employment counsel retainer services; harassment prevention services and training; employment contracts and agreements such as severance arrangements, restrictive covenants, non-competes; labor relations; alternative dispute resolution (arbitration, mediation, negotiation of employment matters); compliance counseling; wage and hour practices; statutory-based claims such as employment discrimination and retaliation, harassment, leaves-ofabsence, disabilities and reasonable accommodations; commercial litigation such as non-competition and trade secret disputes. Sima offers an exceptional level of personalized service, working closely with clients to help them develop a proactive rather than reactive approach to labor and employment issues. Her on-going support provides

Q&A

lifestyle, which often become the most important factor to overall career satisfaction.

With 35 years of trial experience in custody, divorce, and support matters, including several landmark cases, Joseph has carved out a reputation as an innovative litigator and compassionate counsel. He is heavily involved in pro bono and nonprofit community work, including as a member of the Nassau County Supreme Court Matrimonial Pro Bono Panel, the Queens County Civil and Supreme Court Pro Bono panel, as former president of the board of the Community Education Council, and as co-chair of the Forest Hills Youth Activities Association. He additionally supports several charitable organizations in New York, Queens and Long Island.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? My best advice is that you become an advocate. It is the client’s best interest (whether financial, emotiona or legal) that is paramount. You’re in a position to do good, to help with someone’s wellbeing.

Joel M. GreenBerG, esq., is a Partner in Frier Levitt’s Healthcare practice group, working out of the Uniondale, Long Island office. He has extensive experience assisting health care providers, including physicians, medical groups and dentists, among others, address the numerous business and legal issues that arise in their practices. Joel counsels clients in all aspects of a transaction — from the initial phase of setting up an entity to establishing employment, partnership and shareholder agreements to ensuring all actions taken by the entity comply with the federal and state fraud, abuse, self-referral and professional misconduct laws and regulations. Additionally, Joel assists clients in the purchase, sale, and dissolution of their professional practices, the intricacies of the malpractice insurance world, and other business and legal issues

Q&A

liherald.com Lindsey’s outstanding work with her clients has not gone unnoticed, earning recognitions as a Top 10 Family Law Attorney in the State of New York by American Jurist Institute, Attorney and Practice Magazine, National Academy of Family Law; and recognized by American Institute of Family 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. Determined to be actively involved in the legal community, Lindsey is on the Board of Directors for the Suffolk County Matrimonial Bar Association and a current member of the New York State Bar Association, the Suffolk County Bar Association, and the Matrimonial Bar Association of Suffolk County. Additionally, she also provides pro bono legal services to assist the transgender community through a local charity on Long Island.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My husband, Maqsood, and my kids (Zubair, Sabeena and Nadeera) were the major catalyst for starting my firm. My parents were role models as successful and hard working professionals (doctors) and my Dad also as an entrepreneur/business owner.

Prior to starting his own firm, Jonathan first worked for a large New York litigation firm. There he honed his case preparation and trial skills. He also gained great experience handling complex cases that sometimes involved 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 choose the cases and how to proceed from the beginning. So he left that firm and opened his own company, The Law Office of Jonathan Bell, which turned into the Bell Law Group. Now he spends his days fully investing himself and his resources in cases involving all types of Labor and Employment claims. He has successfully represented employees and employers in all aspects of litigation as well as having significant trial experience.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? It’s in my blood. My great uncles, the Bielski’s (before my name was changed to Bell), walked out of a forest with 1,200 Jews. Because of my family, tens of thousands of Jews are alive today! My family, led by Tuvia and Zus Bielski, stood up and fought not only for themselves, but for others. While there were many partisans groups that recruited “young men with guns” to fight, while turning away women, children and elderly, my family accepted everyone.

The movie (and book) “Defiance” portrays the story of my family. This story is rooted in my DNA. I chose employment law because when an employee is discriminated against simply for being part of a protected class, whether it be race, age, religion, disability, gender or sexual orientation, I have an overwhelming passion to fight for the employee. This includes my passion to fight for employees that are taken advantage of by unscrupulous employers on wage and hour matters, wherein the employees are abused for employer profits.

richnerlive.com

HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-13

The Attorneys at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek P.C. Proudly Congratulate their good friends and colleagues Adam P. Silvers, Irvin Brum, and Ross J. Kartez

1055024

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

Mark a. Torres General Counsel Teamsters Union Local 810

Thursday, September 26, 2019 Mark a. Torres has served as General Counsel and Director of Legal Affairs Teamsters Union Local 810 and Affiliated Benefit Funds since March 2009. As In-house General Counsel to the large private sector New York City Teamsters Union and its three benefit funds, Mark counsels officers and employees on the administrative enforcement of over 100 collective bargaining agreements. He negotiates collective bargaining agreements, plant closing agreements, employment policies, employee releases, and settlement agreements. Mark is the Union’s representative in arbitration hearings, Federal and State Court litigation, and before the NLRB. As Director of Legal Affairs, he oversees all legal matters including litigation, complex ERISA-related matters, and the counseling of Fund trustees and employees on pension and welfare benefit administration and employment policies. Mark received his Juris Doctor in May 2008 from Fordham University School of Law and his B.A. in History from New York University in May 2003,

Q&a

aWarD WInner Area Of Practice

Labor & eMpLoyMenT

What is your proudest achievement? I am blessed to have a career that is more of a calling than a profession. In this regard, I derive great joy and satisfaction when I represent and counsel clients in the security and enhancement of their employment

and livelihoods. Whether it be negotiating on behalf of a group of employees for a strong labor contract or representing individual employees to secure or restore their employment, each day I can truly say that these endeavors have led to my proudest achievements.

andrew J. Turro has extensive experience in state and federal appellate and trial litigation, both civil and criminal. His practice covers complex commercial, civil, employment, criminal and laborrelated matters. Andrew represents professionals (lawyers, doctors, and other medical care providers) in disciplinary proceedings as well as businesses and individuals before state and federal agencies. His practice also includes several substantial equine law matters in which he has represented both individuals and professional groups before the New York State Gaming Commission and the New York State Courts. An accomplished litigator, he has achieved successful results for his clients in seminal cases involving landowner liability, the valuation of a municipality’s tax assessments on environmentally impaired properties, such as Superfund sites, and attacks on the legality of regulations promulgated by governmental agencies. In his employment law practice,

anDreW J. Turro Partner, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

Q&a

aWarD WInner Area Of Practice

Labor & eMpLoyMenT

arThur yerMash Partner, Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? A law degree is a valuable door to numerous options and opportunities. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? To help others. As a lawyer, I am

aWarD WInner Area Of Practice

Labor & eMpLoyMenT

What is your proudest achievement? Becoming a Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick is my proudest achievement. I worked my way up from a part time intern all the way to partner, and I’m honored to be a part of this organization. CMM growing fast, and I look forward to seeing what comes next as we expand further.

a. ThoMas LevIn Member/General Counsel Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

aWarD WInner Area Of Practice

LanD use & ZonIng

What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement is having been selected by my peers to serve as President of the 72,000 member New York State Bar Association, the largest voluntary state bar association in the nation, which gave me a platform and opportunity to diversify and improve that organization and to contribute to a better system of justice for all.

FreDerIck c. Johs Founding Partner Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP

aWarD WInner Area Of Practice

LITIgaTIon

What is your proudest achievement? Being a good son to my parents and a good father to my sons. What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Make sure that you are passionate about becoming a lawyer. Don’t do it because you can’t think of anything else you want to do or because you think you’ll make a lot of money. Be prepared to make sacrifices.

nature of each employer and its industry, Arthur is often involved in creating policies and procedures that are custom-tailored to the needs of the business. He also advises clients on all day-to-day employment issues and has drafted numerous employee handbooks, policies, procedures, and related documents. Arthur has also been involved in negotiations with labor unions in connection with collective bargaining agreements and arising disputes. In addition, Arthur has successfully represented and advised businesses in connection with numerous high-value transactions across a variety of sectors, including asset purchases, stock purchases, mergers, and other forms of business sales and acquisitions. As part of his corporate focus, Arthur has significant experience working with nonprofit organizations through start-up and development initiatives, routine operational matters, and more complex concerns including compliance, fiduciary responsibility, and board member obligations.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Deciding to practice law for the fame and glory often portrayed on TV or in the media is not an ideal decision. The practice of law requires extremely hard work and dedication and many thankless days (and nights). The folks that just want to be in the newspapers do not fare well.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? Becoming a lawyer was a goal even before high school. Our profession has a certain mystique and respect about it that always drew me in. Lawyers are expected to be reliable problem solvers and deal makers. From a young age I saw myself as a problem solver and knew this was always the path for me.

Since 1971, Mr. Levin has been the Editor of the “Bench Book for Trial Judges,” now published by Thomson-Reuters. He has authored numerous legal articles and is a frequent lecturer. In public service, Mr. Levin has been counsel to the New York State Assembly Judiciary Committee and joint Legislative Committee on the State’s Economy, and is active in numerous community and charitable organizations. Since 2012 he has been annually recognized as a New York Super Lawyer, among his numerous accolades. He is rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell and recognized as an “Empire State Counsel” by the New York State Bar Association annually, since 2006, for his strong support to pro bono services, outstanding leadership in the legal community, and devotion to improving the justice system on Long Island.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? Having observed my father’s career as an attorney, and his myriad other admirable activities, I concluded that the legal profession offered unmatched opportunities to serve the community, assist people in achieving fair and equitable resolutions for their problems and transactions, and try to leave the world a better place than I found it. I hope that others will conclude that I have accomplished this to a significant degree.

One of the founding partners of the law firm, Fred serves as senior trial partner in all areas of litigation. Fred has been representing clients in transactions and matters of significant exposure for over 35 years. He tries cases involving significant claims on Long Island and New York City. He takes a down to earth, common sense approach to resolving the most complicated litigation in a cost-effective manner. Fred has served as Village Attorney for the Village of Port Jefferson. He was Vice-Chairman on the Grievance Committee for the Tenth Judicial 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

Q&a

What is your favorite charity? Island Harvest.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My friend and partner Judge Bernard S. Meyer.

a. ThoMas Levin serves as Shareholder and General Counsel to Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. He is also Chair of its Local Government, Land Use and Environmental Compliance practice and the Professional Responsibility practice. He originated and chairs the firm’s Veterans’ Scholarship Program at Nassau Community College. Mr. Levin represents private and public sector clients in local government law, land use regulation, environmental review compliance, cable television franchising, municipal and commercial litigation and appeals, and matters relating to professional responsibility, ethics and disciplinary proceedings. A former New York State Bar Association President, he is a Life Member of its House of Delegates and serves on various NSYSBA committees. He is also a Trustee of, and Counsel to, the Historical Society of the New York Courts, among his many professional endeavors.

Q&a

What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? My family and I have been vacationing on the North Fork of Long Island (specifically Greenport and the surrounding towns) for more than 20 years. Without question, this is my favorite place to visit on Long Island.

he represents clients in State and Federal matters that include employment discrimination claims arising under Title VII, the ADA, and the State Human Rights Law as well as Minimum Wage/Overtime claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act and New York State Labor laws. He also advises clients in connection with employment contracts, severance agreements, comprehensive restrictive covenants, and various commercial contracts. Andrew also acts as general outside corporate counsel, advising clients on a broad range of legal matters. He also coordinates Meyer, Suozzi’s pro bono program. Under his supervision, the firm’s pro bono program has become involved in a wide range of matters providing legal assistance to numerous local not-for-profit and charitable organizations and legal organizations designed primarily to address the needs of persons of limited need, as well as individuals with special education needs.

able to find solutions and advocate for clients facing an assortment of challenges in law and life.

arThur YerMash counsels clients in all areas of labor and employment law. He advises clients on compliance with federal, state, and local laws affecting the workplace, including payment of wages, overtime, paid and unpaid leave requirements, employment discrimination, benefit requirements, hiring and termination, among others. Arthur is often involved in drafting and negotiating employment-related documents including employment agreements as well as non-competition, non-disclosure, severance, and option agreements. He has extensive experience working with clients in the retail, hospitality/catering, healthcare, and technology industries. Arthur’s practice also includes the representation of clients in discrimination claims, wage and hour disputes, as well as defending against investigations by regulatory and government agencies. His work includes implementing compliance programs and conducting internal investigations in connection with discrimination, compensation, overtime, and other employment issues. Taking into consideration the unique

Q&a

liherald.com graduating magna cum laude. Mark is also a novelist who has authored three books. He self-published his debut novel “A Stirring in the North Fork” in 2015. This local tale, which centers on the unsolved murder of a young woman on the North Fork of Long Island, was pictured by readers on all seven continents within a year of its release. He also released a Labor Union related children’s book “Good Guy Jake” (Hard Ball Press, 2017). It strives to teach children the benefits and values of union membership in a beautifully illustrated and bilingual story. Mark’s latest novel, “Adeline: (Indie Owl Press, 2019), is a fast-paced gripping tale about the mysterious death of an innocent young woman wrongly committed to a notorious mental asylum in Rockland County, New York in 1977. In his works Mark uses riveting storytelling and thorough research to teach and entertain readers about various historical truths and locations throughout the New York state.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My father, Irving Levin, was the greatest influence in my career. He was essentially a solo practitioner, who embodied all that is best in the legal profession. He understood his clients and their needs, sought to achieve just results, and unstintingly donated his time and efforts to those who were unable to afford to pay. His ethical compass was impeccable. He served in numerous volunteer public service positions, including as an Acting Village Justice, and was a model for what attorneys should aspire to be.

Industry & Technology, Inc. (past president). He also served on the Board of Mather Memorial Hospital for over 12 years. Additionally, Fred has been honored as among the best trial lawyers on Long Island and has been named to “Best Lawyers” for 14 consecutive years and to “Super Lawyers” for the 10th consecutive year. He is rated “AV” by Martindale Hubbell. Fred is a member of many industry organizations and has lectured on medical malpractice litigation and trial techniques among other topics both in the U.S. and across the pond. Fred loves his sons Andrew and Freddie, practicing law and playing golf.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I wanted to be a trial lawyer since I was 10. Probably from watching lawyer TV shows. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Any golf course, most vineyards, and my friend’s house on Great River.

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 Ross J. KaRtez, an Associate at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C., is a member of the firm’s litigation department. His practice focuses on commercial litigation. He primarily represents clients in matters involving real estate, securities, shareholder and partnership agreements, business torts, employment disputes, alternative dispute resolution, insurance coverage, and various breach of contract disputes. He has represented clients in Federal Court, State Court, FINRA and AAA Arbitration, and in all aspects of negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation. Ross received his Juris Doctor Degree from St. John’s University School of Law and his Bachelor’s (concentrated in Legal Studies) from the University at Buffalo. He has received extensive mediation instruction, including the required training certified by Part 146 of the New York State Unified Court System.

Ross J. KaRtez Associate, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.

Q&a

aWaRD WINNeR Area Of Practice

LItIGatIoN

What is your proudest achievement? Being a father and husband to my two beautiful boys and my even more beautiful wife. Balancing life and giving my family the attention they deserve is not easy, especially as a busy attorney. I am proud to say that I am accomplishing my most important goal

of being there for my family. Ruskin Moscou also supports this goal, which makes it easier to relax outside the office knowing that my firm supports my professional and personal goals. There are times when my family makes sacrifices that help support my professional success — so any professional honor I receive equally belongs to my family.

adam P. slateR is a seasoned attorney with 15 years of litigation experience involving mass torts, World Trade Center Victim’s Compensation Fund, pharmaceutical drugs, medical device,toxic and environmental torts, products liability, catastrophic personal injuries, class action, CVA cases and employment law. Mr. Slater aggressively represents his clients to obtain the justice they deserve for their loss. His work has been featured in newspapers, legal journals and other media sources, including Forbes, CNN, Reuters, Associated Press, NBC National, NBC New York, ABC, CBS, Fox, New York Times, New York Post, New York Daily News, Univision, Telemundo, Law 360 and The New York Law Journal. Additionally, Mr. Slater is a National

Q&a aDam P. sLateR Partner, Slater Slater Schulman LLP

aWaRD WINNeR

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? From the beginning of your career, at your very first job in a law firm, make sure it is with a firm that you will gain tremendous practical experience.

liherald.com While at St. John’s, Ross served as an executive board member of the Dispute Resolution Society, and was a participant inthe prestigious International Chamber of Commerce Mediation Competition in Paris, France; also the FINRA Securities Dispute Triathlon in New York City. While in law school, he also gained experience representing clients while interning for the St. John’s University Securities Arbitration Clinic. Ross is a member of the NYSBA’s Dispute Resolution Section, Commercial and Federal Litigation Section, and International Section. He has published in the Dispute Resolution Lawyer, and currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Dispute Resolution Section and the International Section. Ross is admitted to practice law in the State of New York, the State of New Jersey, and the U.S. District Courts for the Southern District of New York and the Eastern District of New York. Professionally, I have been fortunate in obtaining favorable results in difficult cases and obtaining settlements in complicated situations. I am proud of the reputation I have built as a well-rounded attorney helping clients with business start-up issues, complex commercial disputes and post-litigation/postarbitration issues.

Trial Lawyers Association’s Top 100 Trial Attorney and a National Trial Lawyers Association’s Top 25 Mass Tort Lawyer. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi Million Dollar Advocates Forum. He is rated a 10.0 on Avvo and has been recognized as a NY Metro Super Lawyers Rising Star. Mr. Slater received a B.A. from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2001 and a J.D. from the St. John’s University School of Law in 2004. Mr. Slater grew up in Dix Hills and currently resides in Manhattan with his wife and two daughters. His Law Firm’s offices are located in Melville, Manhattan, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? The two people who have influenced me in my life and career are both my father and grandfather. They have given me the support and foundation I needed to build upon my career.

What is your favorite charity? The Ray Pfeifer Foundation is a 501c3 charitable organization dedicated to assisting September 11th first responders, firefighters and police, with medical needs not covered by insurance.

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.

Area Of Practice

mass toRts

RobeRt V. FallaRino, esq. is a trial attorney with 30 years of experience leading medical malpractice litigation, complex labor law, and product defect litigation. In 2012, he obtained the fourth highest verdict in New York State for medical negligence, and a top 10 verdict overall. Robert has dedicated his career to compassionately helping people who have endured life altering and catastrophic injuries. He strives to resolve matters in the most advantageous setting for his clients, whether that means obtaining a jury verdict, a court conference settlement, or by use of a mediator. Time and again, he has resolved cases for millions of dollars for patients who have been victims of medical negligence across New York State and throughout the nation. He ensures that his clients — from all walks of life — feel comfortable and confident of the decisions throughout the legal process.

Robert has been named to the 2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017 list of Best Lawyers in America®. He has also been named every year since 2012 to the New York Metro Super Lawyers© List, for peer recognition and professional achievement. He is a member of New York State Bar Association, North Carolina Bar Association, New York State Trial Lawyers Association, Nassau County Bar Association, Washington D.C. Bar Association, and American Association for Justice. Robert is also active in community matters. He currently serves as the vice president of the East Williston Union Free School District Board of Education, and has served on the board since 2009. He previously volunteered to serve the public as a prosecuting attorney 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 JeFF Kimmel has positioned himself as a fierce business leader in the legal industry. In his role as Partner and CEO, he has navigated the firm’s rapid growth and elevated its status to one of the leading and most progressive personal injury law firms in New York. His recognition as a “Trailblazer” by the New York Law Journal in its inaugural list of attorneys identified Jeff as a business leader and true agent of change in the legal field. As a graduate of Wharton Business School and Brooklyn Law School, Jeff has meticulously combined his entrepreneurial business background with his keen analytical legal sense to cultivate not just a dynamic law firm, but an effective, client-oriented business that supports and promotes lawyer development, firm efficiency processes,

JeFFRey KImmeL

Q&a

Managing Partner, Princpal/CEO Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro LLP

aWaRD WINNeR Area Of Practice

PeRsoNaL INJuRy

What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement is having recognized, accepted and embraced that my law firm is a business, as much as it provides an important service to victims of negligence, medical malpractice and discrimination. I tried cases for 20 years before I added the title of “CEO” to my role in the firm. It’s provided an entirely new view of my firm, the profession and my purpose. I’m so fortunate to now utilize my business background to improve the processes, infrastructure and strategic

planning which will lead to certain growth and success for the firm into the 21st century! What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? My best advice is to make sure being a lawyer is something you LOVE. The best lawyers are the ones who absolutely enjoy practicing law. You can’t be happy in life if you’re not happy in your chosen profession, so choose wisely. The good news is that the legal field is so broad and diverse, it should be easy to find what’s right for you. Just be true to yourself and don’t let other people’s

steVen milleR, senior partner at Miller, Montiel & Strano, P.C., is a trial attorney representing the seriously injured victims of motor vehicle, construction site and premises accidents caused by the negligence of others. Described as a well prepared, detail orientated, tenacious adversary, Steven has obtained multimillion dollar verdicts and settlements on clients’ behalf. He has been recognized for excellence in practice by “Super Lawyers”, an honor bestowed on only five percent of New York metropolitan area 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 Board of Trial Advocates in recognition of his skill, integrity and advocacy experience. The National Trial Lawyers awarded Steven the designation of “Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Lawyer”. Steven earned his law degree from St. Johns University School of Law, graduating Cum Laude and Dean’s List. He continues his association there

steVeN mILLeR Senior Partner Miller, Montiel & Strano, P.C.

aWaRD WINNeR Area Of Practice

PeRsoNaL INJuRy

Q&a

What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement is, together with my wife Karyn, who understands me so well and who I love so much, raising two children who are caring, giving adults, respectful and supportive of each other. The time we spend together energizes me to tackle the challenges of my profession and other bumps in the road that life brings to all of us. What is your favorite charity? My favorite charity is The Book

case value maximization protocols, staffing diversity and community outreach programs. Jeff is also seen as a new thought leader within the legal community as he constantly reciprocates his passion and knowledge of the law as a sought after lecturer and mentor. He frequently lectures attorneys on trial-related topics for the National Business Institute (NBI), NYS Academy of Trial Lawyers, New York County Lawyers’ Association and Brooklyn Law School. Additionally, he participates in CLE webinars for Lawline, Clear Law Institute, and myLawCLE. Jeff also regularly participates as a judge in Yale University’s annual Mock Trial competition. expectations direct your career or your life. Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I feel more like the legal profession chose me. From a young age, the skills required in the profession came naturally to me: public speaking, respecting rules and protocols, genuine inquisitiveness and an appreciation of history. My high school Principles of Law teacher took us on a field trip to Washington, D.C. to watch the Supreme Court in action. It sold me on the profession. I never really considered doing anything else.

by lecturing other attorneys in the art of conducting trials in continuing legal education seminars. In addition, he lectures for the Queens County Bar Association, where he co-chairs the Judicial Relations Committee, and for the Nassau County Bar Association. Steven’s charitable activities include sitting on the Board of Directors of The Book Fairies, which provides teachers and students in underserved communities with free books. Steven is also involved in significant pro bono community services. He provided pro bono services in establishing a Memorial Fund for the widows and children of deceased firefighters from FDNY Engine 54, Ladder 4 of the 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 safe house for women, providing guidance to many, and also was a trustee on his local civic association board.

Fairies located at 70 North Main Street in Freeport. I sit as a member of their Board of Directors. The Book Fairies collects new and lightly used books from many sources. They then make sure that these books find their way into the hands of those in most need. The Book Fairies have established free libraries at high need schools. They conduct community book fairs providing educators with the opportunity to obtain free reading materials specific to the needs of their students. They conduct free school book fairs in high need areas allowing students to “shop” through brand new books and select

two books of their own to bring home at no cost. During these events children have shown great interest in reading and joyful surprise when they learn the books are free for them to keep. Teachers have reported that after The Book Fairies efforts supplying books to students, the students reading levels have risen dramatically. The Book Fairies is about to distribute their two millionth book, an unprecedented milestone. Donations are greatly appreciated and can be made by going to The Book Fairies website at www.thebookfairies.org.

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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. Employment Law Honoree Arthur Yermash, Esq. Partner

Dermond Thomas, Esq. Corporate Law Honoree

on being recognized as 2019 Top Lawyers of Long Island!

Dermond Thomas, Esq.

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Of Counsel

S-18 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019

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HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND EllEn Savino is a Partner at Lewis Johs, practicing real estate and banking law. She supervises the firm’s real estate group. Ellen represents major institutional lenders and credit unions as well as real estate investors and business owners. Ellen has extensive experience handling all aspects of real property law, including institutional financing, real estate sale, acquisition and leasing transactions; as well as foreclosure and real estate related litigation. Ellen served as counsel to New York State Senator Carl Marcellino of the Fifth Senate District from 2006 to 2018. Ellen was named in 2017 Long Island Business News’ “Who’s Who in Women in Professional Services” celebrating influential businesswomen and was recognized by Hofstra Law as an Outstanding Woman in Law in 2017. Schneps Communications and Star Network honored Ellen

ellen n. savino Partner, Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP

Q&a

aWaRD WinneR Area Of Practice

Real estate

What is your proudest achievement? My proudest achievement is my family. My husband and I have twin boys, who are now in high school. I deal with the daily challenges of managing a family along with practicing law and furthering my legal career. Both are well worth the effort and come with many rewards.

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I was intrigued by the practice of law. I love to read and analyze information, which is a large part of the practice of law. I was drawn to my field because I particularly enjoy the challenge of negotiating a contract on a new real estate transaction and ultimately closing on the deal.

Tax attorney KarEn TEnEnbaum founded Tenenbaum Law, P.C., which is recognized as a leading tax firm handling tax dispute resolution. Tenenbaum Law, P.C., helps individuals and businesses facing IRS and New York State tax problems. Karen and her team have successfully represented clients in matters including IRS and New York State Tax Collection, Innocent Spouse Relief Claims, New York State Conciliation Conferences, Individual and Business Tax Audits, IRS Appeals, Penalty Abatements, New York State and New York City Residency Audits, New York State Sales Tax Audits, Offers in Compromise, Installment Agreements, Liens, Levies and Seizures, and Voluntary Disclosures. Karen’s knowledge and leadership have established her as a 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 Founder/Partner Tenenbaum Law, P.C.

Q&a

aWaRD WinneR Area Of Practice

taX

What is your proudest achievement? First, my family. My husband, Larry, and I have raised two successful, happy daughters, who have families and careers of their own. Professionally, I am most proud of starting my own law firm and growing it into one of the most successful tax law firms on Long Island. Additionally, I helped start a

Q&a

What is your favorite charity? There are so many worthwhile charities, but since I co-founded Commerce Plaza and I passionately believe that we have a responsibility to raise children who are financially responsible and knowledgeable,

Partner, Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

aWaRD WinneR

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Read books about the law — i.e. Louis Nizer’s “My Life in Court”. There are many paths once you have a law degree. Write to several law schools and ask for copies of their required and elective courses. Write to several Bar

Area Of Practice

taX CeRtioRaRi

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? As the eldest of four, growing up, I found myself energetically asserting our wants with our parents. I seamlessly moved into the leadership of the Pre-Law Society at the Bronx High School of Science and advocated our rights with the administrator’s proclivity towards the science majors. That stance for those being taken advantage of has continued

the maiDenbaum team shalom s. maiDenbaum Founder/Managing Partner

ilyse GellaR steRnbeRG Partner

amy G. maDmon Senior Associate

Maidenbaum & Sternberg, LLP

aWaRD WinneR Area Of Practice

taX CeRtioRaRi Shalom S. maidEnbaum, ESq. is the Managing and Founding partner of Maidenbaum & Sternberg, LLP, a prominent Nassau County firm that specializes in real estate, commercial and residential tax certiorari. Originally a commercial litigator, Shalom transitioned to taxpayer advocacy. For over

30 years Shalom and his team have been successfully representing homeowners to maintain fair assessments of their properties. A graduate of Benjamin N. Cardozo Law

School and NYU’s Business School, Shalom’s vision and passion for helping Nassau County residents navigate the tax grievance process have made his firm a leader in the field.

robErT J. Cimino was the Suffolk County Attorney for 12 years. He has over 20 years of municipal law experience working in the Office of the Suffolk County Attorney, and before that as the Islip Town Attorney. As County Attorney, Robert managed and directed over 50 attorneys in the County’s municipal law office, providing legal representation to the County and prosecuting and defending all civil actions and proceedings 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 “AV” by Martindale Hubbell. Long Island Pulse Magazine has rated Robert a

RobeRt J. Cimino Senior Counsel Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP

aWaRD WinneR Area Of Practice

tRust & estates

Q&a

What is your proudest achievement? Serving as Suffolk County Attorney for 12 consecutive years. What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Keep all of your options open as you never know where your career will lead you.

my favorite charity would be Commerce Plaza, now part of YES Community Counseling. Ensuring that our children can provide for themselves is an important cause that is near and dear to me. Commerce Plaza is the Children’s Business Center, where 5th and 6th graders get a hands-on experience of being both business operators and consumers in a simulated business community.

in precedent setting decisions in his clients’ favor. Richard, who began with Meyer, Suozzi as an associate in 1981 and became a director in 1985, has been a member of the firm’s Management Committee since 1991. In 2017, he received the Leadership in Law — Lifetime Achievement Award from Long Island Business News. He was recognized by Long Island Pulse in 2010, 2011, and 2012 as one of the region’s “Top Legal Eagles.” For over 25 years, he has been rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest level in professional excellence. Before joining Meyer, Suozzi, Richard was a Deputy County Attorney in the Land Division and Deputy Bureau Chief in the Tax Certiorari Bureau of the Nassau County Attorney’s Office.

Associations to get lists of the various legal committees that meet at the Association.

What is your proudest achievement? Becoming a partner and chair of the Tax Certiorari Department at Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein.

Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My father. He started and built a successful business, which is still part of our family. He taught me the importance of hard work, dedication and family values. Although he is no longer with us, I am reminded everyday of the advice and guidance he has given me over the years.

She has been honored by the Long Island Center for Business & Professional Women, Achievers’ Award recipient; New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, Nassau Chapter, Samuel B. Traum Achievement Award recipient; Long Island Pulse Magazine Top Ten Legal Eagle, Most Impressive Case Victory. Karen was named as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business by Long Island Business News, Legal Leaders’ Long Island Top Rated Lawyers, Super Lawyers’ Top Women Attorneys in the New York Metro, a Long Island Power Women in Business by Long Island Press, selected as a New York Metro Super Lawyer, a SmartCEOs Future 50 Award recipient, Judge Gail Prudenti Outstanding Women in Law Award, and rated a Top Women-Owned Law Firm in New York by the New York Law Journal, among her many accolades.

non-profit organization, Commerce Plaza, that teaches children about money and business.

riChard G. FromEwiCK is a seasoned attorney who provides a full range of real estate tax assessment services as Chair of the Tax Certiorari and Condemnation Practice at Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C. These include representation with respect to all types of commercial and residential properties in tax assessment reduction proceedings, projection of real estate taxes in connection with the purchase, development and improvement of properties, and advising with respect to tax exemption matters. Richard has successfully represented numerous owners and tenants in proceedings to reduce real property taxes and regarding claims against the State of New York and its municipalities based on the taking of land or other real property rights. He has handled a substantial number of tax certiorari cases involving large commercial properties that have remediation/pollution problems, resulting in sizable refunds for his clients. His expertise has resulted

RiChaRD G. FRomeWiCK

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-19 as a Power Woman in Business in 2016. She was recognized in Long Island Business News in 2014 as a “Who’s Who in Commercial Real Estate Law”. In 2003 and 2008, Ellen was named one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women on Long Island by Long Island Business News. She also had the distinction of receiving the Class of 2002 Business Recognition and Leadership Award from the Multiple Sclerosis Society. She is active in a wide range of professional and community activities and is involved with her alma mater, Hofstra University. She served as an affiliate instructor, teaching real property law for the Paralegal Studies Certificate Program, and as a mentor for the Hofstra Law Mentorship Program. She received a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, from Hofstra University and graduated from Hofstra Law School.

throughout my legal career. Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? I was a new college student in 1960 and I was in awe of Jack Kennedy and Kennedy’s young crew cut Long Island advisor, Jack English. From that time on, I dreamed about becoming a lawyer on Long Island in Jack English’s firm. As a young lawyer, I followed Jack English’s lead that every client is the most important and everyone deserves the very best efforts of their lawyer.

ilYSE GEllar STErnbErG, ESq., a graduate of George Washington University Law School and Columbia Business School, is the head of Maidenbaum & Sternberg’s commercial certiorari department. She has been integrally involved in residential tax filings for close to 30 years. While growing her firm is always a priority, she strongly believes in maintaining a personal touch — customer service and congenial client relationships are of paramount importance to her. amY G. madmon, ESq., a graduate of American University, Washington College of Law, began at Maidenbaum & Sternberg as a law student and now manages the dayto-day operations of the residential certiorari department. She also handles the firm’s real estate transactions and represents local nonprofit organizations. Amy is focused on building relationships with staff and clients centered on communication, trust and reliability. All three are steadfast believers in family, community and significant charitable giving.

Top Legal Eagle in Suffolk and Nassau Counties for government. From 1988 through 1991 Robert served as the Islip Town Attorney. From 1980 through 1991 he was the senior partner in Cimino & Prudenti, a firm practicing trusts and estates law and litigation. From 1977 to 1980, he was the Chief Clerk, Chief Law Assistant, and the Law Clerk to the Surrogate at the Suffolk County Surrogate’s Court. Robert graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo Law School in 1971. He graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo with a Bachelor’s Degree in 1968.

What is your favorite charity? CTREE, The Center for Therapeutic Riding of the East End — therapeutic riding lessons for young adults and children with disabilities. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? The Hamptons.

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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Michael Humphrey

REAL ESTATE

ESTATES & TRUSTS

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

John Gordon

Michael Humphrey

Joseph Milizio

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.

570 Lexington Ave, Suite 1600 New York, NY 10022 (212) 759-3500

255 Monmouth Road, Second Floor Oakhurst, NJ 07755 (732) 531-8900 1055034

3000 Marcus Avenue, Suite 1E9 Lake Success, NY 11042 (516) 437-4385

S-22 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 patricia Galteri serves as the Managing Attorney of Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C., an established Long Island firm and chairs the firm’s Management Committee. In addition to her management role, Patricia is Chair of the firm’s Wills, Trusts & Estates Department. Her practice includes estate and family business planning to ensure the tax efficient transfer of wealth to the next generation while meeting her clients’ specific personal goals. She implements such plans through the use of wills and grantor trusts, irrevocable life insurance trusts, generation skipping trusts, grantor retained annuity trusts and other arrangements designed to transfer property at little or reduced gift tax cost to selected beneficiaries. Nomination of agents under Powers of Attorneys and Health Care Proxies also play an important role in effecting her clients’ intentions. In addition, Patricia supervises probate and administration documents preparation, advises the marshaling and preservation

Q&a

Patricia Galteri Managing Attorney Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

aWarD WiNNer

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? I want to help others solve their problems. Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My mother. Her message is simple but its impact is powerful: “Never let HER rest until HER good is better, and HER better is best.” She made me want to always strive for excellence, and I

Area Of Practice

trusts & estates

liherald.com of estate assets, and is knowledgeable in all aspects of estate administration and post-mortem estate tax planning. Her in-depth knowledge of preparation of federal and state estate tax returns enables her to defend positions on gift and estate tax returns under audit. Patricia is frequently requested by the media to comment on gift and estate tax law; she also authored a chapter titled “Preparing an Appropriate Strategy” for Thomson Reuters’ “Beginning the Estate Planning Process.” Among her accolades, she was honored at the Premier Business Women of Long Island Awards Gala in 2019; she received Hofstra’s 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 2016-2017. She is also rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest level in professional excellence.

learned how immensely crucial family values and education are to achieve success.

jessi

Partner, J

What is your favorite charity? Long Island Community Foundation for the vital services it provides to our Long Island communities. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Montauk and Shelter Island for the scenic beauty.

aWa

toP PhilaNthroPic Firm

leWis johs avalloNe aviles, llP

aWarD WiNNer lewis Johs avallone aviles, llp is a true full service law firm with offices on Long Island and in New York City. Founded in 1993, Lewis Johs has grown from four to over 70 attorneys. From its inception, the firm has steadily gained a reputation as a skilled and dynamic law firm capable of managing the most complex litigation, trial, transactional, real estate, corporate and appellate work. The success and abilities of Lewis Johs trial attorneys positions the firm to obtain the best possible result for their clients, whether that means early resolution or a trial by jury. Equally as important, Lewis Johs is dedicated to community outreach and giving back. Community involvement is a vital part of the culture at Lewis Johs. The firm is steadfast in its belief in giving back to the community it serves; attorneys and staff actively support numerous charities and community-based

organizations. Some of the many organizations that benefit from Lewis Johs philanthropy include Developmental Disabilities Institute, Blanca’s House, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, American Heart Association, Michael Gilmor Scholarship Fund, Long Island Cares, NYU Langone Perlmutter Center, Gracious Hands, Stage the Change, United Veterans Beacon

House, American Kidney Fund, Go Red for Women, John Theissen Children’s Foundation, The Maurer Foundation, American Red Cross, The Arthritis Foundation NY, Boys Hope Girls Hope, and March of Dimes. Together the Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles family has helped build houses, walked miles, ran marathons and cycled 24 hours for worthy

charities. Their team has acted as elves wrapping holiday gifts for needy children, collected and sorted food and adopted 50 needy families at Thanksgiving time to provide holiday meals. They have held food drives, coat drives, backpack drives, shoe drives, blood drives, book drives, toy drives… and the list goes on! They have supported hurricane relief efforts and homeless veteran initiatives. Some of their staff are Big Brothers & Big Sisters to underprivileged children. Each year Lewis Johs opens their heart up to Sister Mary and her special kids with Boys Hope Girls Hope of NY. They have members that have shaved their heads for cancer and all with a smile on their face. They have contributed and helped build 3 sustainable garden towers in a special little orphanage in Haiti, that today provides fresh fruit and vegetables for the resident children. 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 Representation Practice 15 years ago, one of the earliest law firms 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. Mr. Milizio is a trusted advisor and provides legal counsel, representation, and education to the LGBTQ community in a variety of issues, from workplace discrimination to adoption rights to estate planning. He is the co-chair of the Nassau County Bar Association LGBTQ Committee; a member of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) New York Steering Committee; and a longtime supporter of the Long Island Crisis Center Pride for Youth initiative, which named him “2017 Person of the Year.” Under his leadership, VMM regularly engages in pro bono and

community outreach projects in support of the LGBTQ community and cause, far beyond the scope of a boutique law firm. Recently, these have included serving as the corporate sponsor of CUNY Pridefest 2019, a celebration of pride for the entire CUNY system; as the sponsor of the Queens College GLASA (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Alliance) Club; as the sponsor of the Queens College “Train the Trainer” program for LGBTQ antidiscrimination; as volunteer curriculum advisors and lecturers at the Queens College LGBTQ Studies minor pilot program; and as the second-largest sponsor of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) New York Golf Outing & Dinner, an annual fundraiser for the largest LGBTQ advocacy group 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

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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 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

Congratulations to all the honored lawyers and law firms!

1055301

Top Lawyers of Long Island

S-24 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Jessica M. BaQueT Partner, Jaspan Schlesinger LLP

aWarD Winner

Thursday, September 26, 2019

rising sTars unDer 40 Jessica M. BaqueT devotes her practice to complex commercial disputes, labor and employment matters and contested proceedings concerning trusts and estates. She represents individuals, municipalities and institutional clients in litigation in state and federal courts and before administrative bodies. Jessica also handles appeals to the Appellate Divisions of the New York State Supreme Court, the New York Court of Appeals and the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Jessica’s wide-ranging experience makes her a true partner to clients from a case’s inception through final appeal, and in otherwise formulating litigation-avoidance strategies. She recognizes that every client has unique goals and views her most important role as that of a tactician and strategist. In her commercial practice, Jessica represents businesses and individuals in cases involving contract disputes, partnership and shareholder disputes, insurance coverage issues, joint venture agreements, breaches of fiduciary duty, unfair competition claims,

Q&a

as elves children, adopted g time to held food es, shoe oy drives…

ne relief nitiatives. ers & Big en. Each art up to with Boys members r cancer hey have stainable phanage fruit and

Q&a

y mentor, give and anything

Tony Dulgerian In-House Counsel, MetLife

aWarD Winner

school does not provide students an accurate sense of what it is like to be an attorney. My best is advice is for someone considering a career in law to try to gain some practical insight by pursuing jobs or internships in a law office before making the enormous financial commitment that law school requires, or during summers while in law school. I worked in a law firm as a paralegal throughout college, and had internships in the court system and a law firm while in law school. This allowed me to form more realistic expectations about what day-to-day life as an attorney is like, and to make better decisions about my career trajectory.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? The practice of law is not what it appears to be on television, and even law

What is one change you’d like to see in your industry? The state courts in the New York metropolitan area have an enormous caseload.

that attorneys handle. Work in a law firm if you can. Although the legal profession is very challenging, it can also be very fulfilling and rewarding if it’s right for you. I think it is important to go into law school with your eyes wide open.

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Make sure to do your due diligence before you start law school. Speak with as many attorneys as you can to understand the day-to-day work

Why did you choose a career in the legal profession? What drew me to the legal profession was the combination of the intellectual rigor and practicality of the work. As a philosophy major in college, I yearned for definitive answers

consTanTina s. PaPageorgiou Partner, Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

aWarD Winner

What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law? Do it because you LOVE it, not because you want to make money. Your knowledge and compassion show through your work when you enjoy your practice, and your clients and colleagues are a lot more appreciative of it. Who influenced/inspired you the most in your career? My parents are the most important influences in my life and my career. They both became refugees around the age of 13, having lost everything in Northern Cyprus and having to start all over again in a different part of Cyprus. They’ve still not returned to their homes, over 44 years later. At the age of 24 they came to America with about $60 in their pockets, without knowing

aWarD Winner For 50 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 in Lake Success, Manhattan, and Oakhurst, N.J., VMM proudly maintains long-lasting relationships with clients over decades and generations. The firm’s main areas of practice are Trusts and Estates, Business and Transactional Law, Employment Law, Commercial Litigation, Alternate Dispute Resolution, Real Estate Law, Exit Planning for Business Owners, Elder Law, Family Law, Personal Injury, and LGBT Representation. Since the firm’s inception in 1969, it has

been steadfastly committed to making lifelong client-attorney relationships. VMM truly understands the importance of developing nurturing relationships built on mutual trust with their clients. Never accepting anything less than excellence, the attorneys go above and beyond the normal standards of ethics and handle every case with the utmost degree of enthusiasm, professionalism, and conviction. The firm proudly offers clients personalized legal strategies that are specific to each case, utilizing cost-effective representation, collaborative counsel among junior and senior lawyers and cutting-edge research tools. VMM attorneys are passionate about what they do, with the realization of the direct impact our work has on lives of clients, their businesses and their loved ones. Operating within the highest ethical standards, every case is treated with the full attention it deserves.

What is your favorite charity? My favorite charity is God’s Love We Deliver, which cooks and delivers meals to people who, because of illness, are unable to prepare their own meals.

to the philosophical questions that came up during class, which I discovered in the practice of law and, more specifically, as an employment attorney. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Main Street in Farmingdale. I grew up and currently live in Farmingdale and have seen the town grow and develop into a hub of activity.

as her legal abilities are to her clients, it’s her genuine care that has helped her form lasting relationships. The daughter of Cypriot emigrants and a first-generation college graduate, she gives back to her community through ongoing pro bono work, including legal education to groups and organizations such as retirement homes and churches. She is a member of the Queens County Women’s Bar Association and NYSBA’s Trust and Estates and Elder Law Sections and a board member of the Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee and the Hellenic Lawyers Association.

anyone here and barely speaking English. They worked long and hard in the restaurant business, sometimes sleeping only a couple of hours a night during the busy holiday seasons. Despite it all, they motivated my sisters and me to work hard every day and to help people whenever and however we can. It’s through the work ethic and compassion they instilled in me that I’ve been able to accomplish what I have. What is your favorite charity? I serve on the Board of Directors of the Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee (HANAC), which was founded in my hometown of Astoria, Queens. I’m a strong advocate of their mission to provide services and programs to the most vulnerable populations. HANAC maintains senior residences with hundreds of subsidized units across Queens and provides a variety of programs like adult literacy, including English as a Second Lan-

ToP BouTiQue FirM Vishnick McgoVern Milizio llP

The result is that it often takes a long time to bring lawsuits to a conclusion. Delays can be made worse by lawyers and/or litigants who refuse to timely meet case deadlines along the way. Although there are supposed to be consequences for that sort of conduct, rarely are sanctions ever imposed. This is bad for the courts because cases linger in the system, and it is bad for attorneys who follow the rules and are left in the unenviable position of trying to explain to clients how and why this is permitted to happen. I would like to see judges more readily impose available penalties to deter inexcusable delays.

federal court litigation, as well as administrative proceedings before various federal, state and local agencies. He has also guided clients through various employment-related issues, including paid family leave compliance, discipline and terminations, wage and hour disputes, trade secret issues and accommodations. In addition, he has provided employee training designed to help his clients avoid litigation and manage risk.

What is your proudest achievement? I graduated law school in 2010, during the height of the Great Recession. Despite this timing, I built a strong and fulfilling career in this profession, for which I am very proud.

consTanTina s. PaPageorgiou is a partner in Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP’s Trust and Estate Practice, focusing on estate planning and 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; also making her the youngest partner in the firm’s 50 years. . Papageorgiou currently leads VMM’s elder law subpractice. Her ability to analyze and address complex legal matters, combined with her outgoing personality, have made her a client favorite and an invaluable asset to the firm. She diligently and zealously represents her clients’ interests, both in court and before government agencies. As important

Q&a

and breaches of restrictive covenants. Jessica’s employment law practice involves the defense of employers against claims alleging discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wage and hour violations, and in lawsuits involving the enforcement of employment and separation agreements. She also represents employers in investigations and proceedings before administrative agencies. In her estate litigation practice, Jessica represents beneficiaries, creditors and fiduciaries in proceedings before the Supreme Courts and Surrogate’s Courts throughout New York state, As a complement to her litigation practice, Jessica routinely provides labor and employment counsel to employers of all sizes. Her many awards and honors include 50 Most Influential Women in Business Award, Long Island Business News, 2018; New York Metro Area Super Lawyers Rising Stars List, 2014-2019; Outstanding Women in Law Award, Hofstra University, Maurice A. Deane School of Law, 2016.

What is your proudest achievement? I am proud that I have been able to show my four daughters that it is possible to both raise a family and have a successful career. While it is not easy to balance home life and professional life, it is rewarding and has a positive impact on my children. They enjoy hearing about my cases and are intellectually curious about what I do. All four of them speak positively about the careers they hope to have one day and, most importantly, each one believes they can accomplish whatever they set out to achieve.

Tony Dulgerian who is In-House Counsel at MetLife, previously worked at Nixon Peabody LLP. As an associate at Nixon Peabody, he represented employers in many industries, including health care, financial services, retail and educational clients. During his employment at Nixon Peabody, he mainly focused on providing advice and counsel to employers and handling employmentrelated litigation. Tony has represented employers in connection with state and

liherald.com

guage and pre-high school equivalency; work training; child and family counseling; alcohol and substance abuse counseling; crime victim services; home repair; legal counseling; and many, many more. It’s a wonderful organization, a real force for good in the community, and I’m grateful to be a part of it. What is your favorite place to visit on Long Island? Although I’m a Queens girl at heart, there are so many wonderful things to explore on Long Island. For a long time, my favorite place to visit was the different North Fork wineries, with a stop at Briermere Farms for some delicious pie! Since we had our two daughters, we’ve deviated a bit from that to the many kid-friendly attractions like the local farms, the Riverhead Aquarium, and whale watching. Lots of family adventures!

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-25

1055302

HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

1055016

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Thursday, September 26, 2019

liherald.com

Congratulations to 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

Long Island – Queens – Manhattan – Brooklyn

1054679

1-877-ELDER LAW - 1-877-ESTATES

HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-27

Labor & Employment Counselors

CONGRATULATES

Sima Ali FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AS A TOP LAWYER OF LONG ISLAND

Ali Law Group, PC 11 Prospect Street, Suite 1A, Huntington, NY 11743 631.423.3440 | www.alilawgroup.com

1055018

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S-28 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019

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TOP LEGAL FIRMS BASED By nuMBER OF LOnG ISLAnD EMPLOyEES FORchELLI DEEGAn TERRAnA LLP

AWARD WInnER TOP LEGAL FIRM: 76+ EMPLOyEES Founded in 1976, Forchelli Deegan Terrana llP is one of Long Island’s largest and most distinguished law firms. Headquartered in Uniondale, the firm employs over 60 attorneys across more than a dozen practice groups committed to providing exceptional service to a broad range of national, regional and local clients. Among its many prestigious accolades, FDT was named a winner in Long Island Business News’ Reader Rankings contest as a Top Winner in the Best Construction, Litigation and Real Property Tax Certiorari Law Firm categories. In July 2019, the Construction practice group received a ranking in Construction Executive magazine’s inaugural

nIxOn PEABODy LLP

AWARD WInnER TOP LEGAL FIRM: 26-75 EMPLOyEES nixon PeaboDy is recognized as exemplary global law firm with 16 offices and over 600 attorneys, including New York City and Long Island. Nixon Peabody sees 21st century law as a tool to help shape their clients’ futures. Long Island businesses, universities, research centers and health care institutions are thriving innovators. Nixon Peabody is proud to be the largest full-service law firm with a significant presence on Long Island, working side-by-side with them as their ideas and companies grow. The firm provides the practice diversity and deep bench on Long Island to address a full range of business legal needs, from formation, financing and intellectual property services needed by life sciences and other technology-driven businesses, to dispute

The Top 50 Construction Law Firms™ list. In October 2018, FDT was a recipient of Newsday’s Top Long Island Work Places award. Receiving this award is a testament to

the firm’s quality leadership and personnel — they’re what make this firm unique! The firm’s office space is on the top floor of RXR’s world‐class Omni, an architecturally

resolution, real estate and workforce issues. Depth also brings differentiating experience such as top trial attorneys who handle complex litigation and class actions; a nationally recognized health services team serving the world’s most prestigious hospitals and medical centers; an M&A team capable of handling complex, strategic and private equity transactions on either side of the deal; and industry leaders tracking the unique needs of higher education institutions and nonprofits. Their focus is on knowing what is important to clients now and next so the firm’s attorneys can foresee obstacles and opportunities in their space and smooth the way. Nixon Peabody ensures clients are equipped with winning legal strategies as they navigate the exciting and challenging times we live in. Nixon Peabody delivers high quality legal counsel for their clients’ needs right now, and are always looking ahead to what’s next. The firm follows, and often help shapes, evolving legislation and see the key trends affecting clients’ industries. NP teams monitor the political, economic and social landscape to

predict future legal challenges and smooth the way. With a uniquely pivotal role that connects companies, regulators, funders, and leaders, Nixon Peabody offers their clients a highlevel partnership. Nixon Peabody creates

striking and technologically advanced luxury office building. In its move from Mineola to the Omni, careful attention was given to creating a healthy work environment for employees, while simultaneously promoting sustainable environmental practices for the general community. FDT is committed to environmental sustainability; a recognized GreenLeader. The office space became LEED‐ certified; awarded a Silver rating level for a commercial interior renovation. FDT is committed to the betterment of Long Island. Attorneys are proud to be involved in numerous transit‐oriented development and revitalization projects, which aim to keep businesses and families on Long Island. FDT participates in fundraisers, toy drives and walks, and makes food donations daily. Attorneys support regional not‐for‐profit organizations by serving as volunteers or as members of committees and boards of directors.

connections, forms alliances, identifies opportunities, and minimize risks. NP attorneys effectively handle complex challenges in litigation, real estate, corporate law and intellectual property.

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,

unless absolutely necessary. Once

construction accidents, and many

we do go to court we are known for

soft

tissue

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 THE 2019 TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

ALEXANDRE DE MOURA M.D., F.A.A.O.S. CERVICAL, LUMBAR SPINE SPECIALIST, MEDICAL DIRECTOR

NEW YORK SPINE INSTITUTE MOVING BACKS FORWARD.

PETER PASSIAS M.D., F.A.A.O.S. CERVICAL, LUMBAR ADULT & PEDIATRIC SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL DEFORMITY SPECIALIST

ANGEL MACAGNO M.D., F.A.A.O.S.

TIMOTHY ROBERTS M.D.

CERVICAL, LUMBAR ADULT & PEDIATRIC SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL DEFORMITY SPECIALIST

CERVICAL, LUMBAR SPINE SPECIALIST

516-329-9878

SALVATORE CORSO M.D.

JEFFREY GUTTMAN M.D.

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY AND ORTHOPAEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH OF WORLD CLASS SURGEONS AND PHYSICIANS, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.NYSPINE.COM

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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 PLLC

Labor & Employment • Personal Injury #whosyourlawyer ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. PRIOR RESULTS DO NOT GUARANTEE A SIMILAR OUTCOME.

1050843

(855) JON-BELL • www.BELLLG.com Garden City • Manhattan • Washington, DC

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Thursday, September 26, 2019

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HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019 - S-31

FIRM ADVANTAGE

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elli Deegan Terrana our top-tier lvers who work together across all tive, FDT007_Creative_10x13.875_LIBN_v4.indd practical solutions that1 deliver dvantage our clients count on.

A full-service law ﬁrm, at Forchelli Deegan Terrana our top-tier 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 forchellilaw.com

11/2

11/21/17 1:59 PM

1055026

LWAYS GREATER OF ITS PARTS.

THE WHOLE IS ALWAYS GREATER THAN THE SUM OF ITS PARTS.

S-32 - HERALD TOP LAWYERS OF LONG ISLAND

Thursday, September 26, 2019

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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, satisfaction and success are important to us. 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 fast responses to all of your requests.

Our team is committed to your success.

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Diane C. Duel Assistant Vice President — Attorney Banking 1775 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566 Phone: 718-782-6200 ext. 5957 Email: dduel@dime.com

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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 Top Lawyers of Long Island

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