PARKER WAICHMAN -BIOS
Jerrold S. Parker (Partner) born Brooklyn, New York. Admitted to bar: 1984, New York; New Jersey; U.S. District Court, Southern, Eastern and Northern Districts of New York; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1993, U.S. Supreme Court. Education: Queens College of the City University of New York (B.A.,1975); St. John’s University School of Law (J.D., 1983). Employment History: Special Agent, Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Treasury Department, Internal Revenue Service, 1975-1983. Member: Executive Committee of the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee, Prozac Multi-District Litigation No. 907; Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee for the World Trade Center Bombing Litigation; New York State Diet Drug – Steering Committee for Fen-Phen; New York State Steering Committee for Rezulin Litigation; Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee and Discovery Subcommittee – Zyprexa Multi-District Litigation No. 1596; Nursing Home Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice, Million Dollar Advocates Forum; American Association for Justice Leader’s Forum; Member of the Executive Committee of the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee, MDL No.1742, In re Ortho Evra Products Liability Litigation; Co-Chair, American Association for Justice (AAJ), Ortho Evra Litigation Group, Plaintiff’s Steering Committee Kugel Mesh Multi-District Litigation No. 1842; Plaintiff’s Steering Committee for the New York State Bausch & Lomb, ReNu with MoistureLoc Litigation as well as the Plaintiff’s Steering Committee Gadolinium Multi-District Litigation No. 1909; Co-Chair, Discovery Committee Vytorin Multi-District Litigation No. 1938; Plaintiff’s Steering Committee and Chairperson IT Committee, Chinese-Manufactured Drywall Multi-District Litigation No. 2047; Plaintiff’s Steering Committee Kaba Keyless Pushbutton Locks Multi-District Litigation No. 2220; Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc. Pinnacle Hip Implant Multi-District Litigation No. 2244; Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee for the Actos (Pioglitazone) Products Liability Litigation, Multidistrict Litigation No. 2299; Plaintiff’s Steering Committee American Medical Systems, Inc., Pelvic Repair Systems Products Liability Litigation No. 2325; Plaintiff’s Steering Committee Boston Scientific Corp., Pelvic Repair Systems Products Liability Litigation No. 2326; and Plaintiff’s Steering Committee Ethicon, Inc., Pelvic Repair Systems Products Liability Litigation No. 2327; Professional Memberships: American Bar Association; New York State Bar Association (Member, Section of Insurance, Negligence and Compensation Law); New Jersey State Bar Association; District of Columbia Bar; American Association for Justice; New York State Trial Lawyers Association; New York County Lawyers Association; Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association. Honors: Mr. Parker was honored on March 3, 2005 at the New York Families for Autistic Children’s Awards Ceremony with a Proclamation from the New York City Council (for outstanding service in the City and community); a Citation of Honor from the Office of the Borough President of Queens County; a Proclamation from the U.S. House of Representatives, signed by Congressman Anthony D. Weiner; and a Congressional Achievement Award (in recognition of his outstanding and invaluable service to the community) from the U.S. House of Representatives, signed by Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. Mr. Parker also received a Citation from the New York State Assembly, signed by Assemblywomen Audrey I. Pheffer, and a Proclamation from the New York State Senate, signed by State Senator Serphin R. Maltese, for his outstanding service to the community. Special Projects: Creator of SmartAdvocate, a state-of-the-art case management system for plaintiffs’ personal injury law firms. Publications/Invited Presentations: Harris Martin Darvon and Darvocet Litigation Conference, January 14, 2012, New Orleans, Louisiana; Harris Martin MDL Conference: Zimmer NexGen Knee and DePuy Hip Implant Litigation, July 27, 2011, San Francisco, California; Harris Martin DePuy Pinnacle Hip Implant Conference, May, 2011, Louisville, Kentucky; Harris Martin Darvon and Hip Implant Litigation Conference: “New Developments in these Emerging Mass Torts”, March 27, 2011, San Diego, California; Speaker, “Gulf Oil Spill Environmental Marine Related Litigation”, The Louisiana State Bar Association 17th Annual Admiralty Symposium – The Gulf Coast Oil Spill, September 24, 2010, New Orleans, Louisiana; Speaker, “The Claim Game”, Oil Spill Litigation Conference, June 23, 2010, New Orleans, Louisiana; Speaker “Environmental Litigation”, The Louisiana State Bar Association Gulf Coast Oil Spill Symposium, May 25, 2010, New Orleans, Louisiana; Speaker, “Renu with MoistureLoc Theories of Liability”, AAJ Conference, January 29, 2008, San Juan, Puerto Rico; Speaker, “Renu with MoistureLoc Down & Dirty”, AAJ Conference, October 27, 2007, New York, New York; Speaker, “Make Your Data Productive Data”, Mass Torts Made Perfect, March 20, 2007, Las Vegas, Nevada; Faculty Member, “Ortho-Evra Birth Control Patch Litigation TeleConference”, American Association for Justice (AAJ), February 14, 2006; Co-author, “The Ortho-Evra Birth Control Patch and Thrombotic Injuries: What Patients and Physicians Needed to Know But Were Never Told”, Mealey’s Emerging Drugs and Devices, January 19, 2006, Volume 11, Issue #2; Speaker, “Ride the Internet – Will It Carry You?”, Mass Torts Made Perfect, November 17, 2005, Las Vegas, Nevada; Speaker, “Ortho Evra Birth Control Patch: Is this the Next Mass Tort?”, Mass Torts Made Perfect, November 18, 2005, Las Vegas, Nevada. Reported Cases: Hutley v. N.Y.S. Thruway Authority, 139 Misc. 2d 268, 529 N.Y.S.2d 258 (Ct. C1. 1988); Nissenbaum v. Ferazzoli, 143 A.D.2d 823, 533 N.Y.S.2d 140 (2d Dept. 1988); Hernandez v. City of New York 156 A.D.2d 641, 549 N.Y.S.2d 139 (2d Dept. 1989); Hughes v. Jahoda, et al, 75 N.Y.2d 881, 554 N.Y.S.2d 467, 553 N.E.2d 1015 (1990); Nissenbaum v. Ferazzoli, 171 A.D.2d 654, 567 N.Y.S.2d 135 (2d Dept. 1991); Van Loon v. Moskowitz, 172 A.D.2d 569, 569 N.Y.S.2d 135 (2d Dept. 1991); Darsan v. Globe Slicing Machine Co., Inc., 200 A.D.2d 551, 606 N.Y.S.2d 317 (2d Dept. 1994); Quinones v. Long Island College Hospital, 607 N.Y.S.2d 103 (2d Dept. 1994); Pimental v. City of New York, 246 A.D.2d 467, 668 N.Y.S.2d 187 (1st Dept. 1998); Thompson v. Green Bus Lines, Inc., 280 A.D.2d 468, 721 N.Y.S.2d 70 (2d Dept. 2001); Prats v. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, 100 N.Y.2d 878, 768 N.Y.S.2d 178 (2003); Kaczynski v. United Skates of America, Inc., 4 A.D.3d 337, 770 N.Y.S.2d 888 (2d Dept. 2004); Dumbadze v. Chwatt, 7 A.D.3d 563, 775 N.Y.S.2d 889 (2d Dept. 2004); Steel v. State of New York, 307 A.D. 2d 919, 762 N.Y.S.2. 883 (2d Dept. 2003), 11 A.D.3d 673, 782 N.Y.S.2d 924 (2d Dept. 2004), and 205 WL 475211 (N.Y. Ct. Cl. 2005). Practice Areas: Mass Torts; Toxic Torts; Defective Drug Liability; Defective Medical Devices; Aviation Accidents; Explosions/Fires; Products Liability; Nursing Home Negligence; Vaccine Injury; Medical Malpractice; Automobile Accidents; General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation; Consumer Fraud; and Computerized Law Office Management Systems (Lectured NYSTLA members on how to incorporate computer based case management into their practice and how to maximize its use). Martindale-Hubbell rating of “AV® Preeminent™ 5.0 out of 5”. Voted by peers into Best Lawyers® for Personal Injury Litigation.
Herbert L. Waichman, (Partner) born Ulm, Germany. Admitted to bar: 1984, New York; New Jersey; U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1993, U.S. Supreme Court. Education: John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the City University of New York (B.A., 1979); St. John’s University School of Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 1983). Co-Author: “1986 Legislative Changes in New York Tort Law: An Analysis”, New York State Bar Journal, April, 1987. Lecturer: Tort Law, Continuing Legal Education Program, New York City, 1986. Lieutenant, New York City Police Department, 1969-1984. Member: Million Dollar Advocates Forum; Steering Committee for the World Trade Center Bombing Litigation; Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee and Discovery Subcommittee– Zyprexa Multi-District Litigation No. 1596; New York State Steering Committee for Rezulin Litigation and American Association for Justice Leader’s Forum. Professional Memberships: American Bar Association; New York State Bar Association; American Association for Justice; New York County Lawyers Association. Honors: Mr. Waichman was honored on March 3, 2005 at the New York Families for Autistic Children’s Awards Ceremony with a Proclamation from the New York City Council (for outstanding service in the City and community); a Citation of Honor from the Office of the Borough President of Queens County; a Proclamation from the U.S. House of Representatives; and a Congressional Achievement Award (in recognition of his outstanding and invaluable service to the community) from the U.S. House of Representatives, signed by Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. Mr. Waichman also received a Citation from the New York State Assembly, signed by Assemblywomen Audrey I. Pheffer, and a Proclamation from the New York State Senate, signed by State Senator Serphin R. Maltese, for his outstanding service to the community. Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Toxic Torts; Fen-Phen Litigation; Defective Drug Liability; Defective Medical Device Liability; Aviation Accidents; Explosions/Fires; Products Liability; Nursing Home Negligence; Vaccine Injury; Medical Malpractice; Automobile Accidents; General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation; and Consumer Fraud.
Jordan L. Chaikin, (Partner) born East Meadow, New York. Admitted to bar: 2004, Florida; 2005, U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida; 2008, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida; 2009, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida. Education: University of Florida (B.A., 2001); Stetson University College of Law (J.D., 2004). Member: Plaintiff’s Steering Committee for Dial Complete Marketing and Sales Practices Litigation MDL No. 2263. American Association for Justice, Florida Justice Association and the American Bar Association. Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Toxic Torts, Defective Drug Liability, Defective Medical Devices, Products Liability, Class Actions, Complex Litigation and General Personal Injury and Negligence Litigation.
Raymond C. Silverman, (Partner), born Suffern, New York. Admitted to bar: 2000, New York; U.S. District Court, Eastern, Northern, Southern and Western Districts of New York. Education: University of Wisconsin at Madison (B.A., 1996); Fordham University School of Law (J.D., 1999). Member: American Association for Justice (AAJ); New York State Trial Lawyers Association; New York County Lawyers Association. Practice Areas: Trials; Construction Accidents; Automobile Accidents; Products Liability; Medical Malpractice; Workers’ Compensation; and General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
Brett A. Zekowski, (Partner), born Rockville Centre, New York. Admitted to bar: 2000, New York; 2005, United States District Court, Eastern and Southern Districts of New York. Education: State University of New York at Albany (B.A., 1996); Hofstra University School of Law (J.D., 1999). Reported Cases: Sime v. Ludhar, 37 A.D.3d 817, N.Y.S.2d 755 (2nd Dept. 2007); Schroeder v. Connelly, 46 A.D.3d 1439, 848 N.Y.S.2d 789 (4th Dept. 2007). Member: New York State Trial Lawyers Association. Practice Areas: Automobile Accidents, General Negligence Litigation, Personal Injury; and Products Liability.
Fred R. Rosenthal, (Managing Attorney) born Brooklyn, New York. Admitted to bar: 1975, New York; U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Education: State University of New York at Binghamton (B.A., 1971); Brooklyn Law School (J.D., 1974), Moot Court Honor Society. Member: New York State Bar Association. Practice Areas: Mass Torts; Toxic Torts; Fen-Phen Litigation; Defective Drug Liability; Defective Medical Device Liability; Aviation Accidents; Explosions/Fires; Products Liability; Nursing Home Negligence; Vaccine Injury; Medical Malpractice; Automobile Accidents and No-Fault Insurance Law; General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation; and Consumer Fraud.
Douglas A. Kugal (Managing Attorney Social Security Disability and Veteran’s Administration Unit), born North Bellmore, New York. Admitted to bar: 1995, Florida; 1998, New York; U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; Accredited Attorney before the Department of Veterans Affairs. Education: Binghamton University (BA 1992); Nova Southeastern University (JD 1995). Professional Memberships: New York State Bar Association, Nassau County Bar Association; the National Organization of Social Security Claimant’s Representatives and the National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Mr. Kugal spent fourteen years representing individuals with disabilities before United States Administrative Law Judges. Practice areas: Social Security Disability and Veteran’s Administration Claims.
Melanie H. Muhlstock: (Managing Attorney, Mass Torts Unit), born Bronxville, New York. Admitted to bar: 1997, New Jersey; 1997, U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey; 1998, New York; 1998, U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York; 2001, U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York; 2006 U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. Education: University of Wisconsin at Madison (B.A., 1994); Loyola University - Chicago School of Law (J.D., 1997). Member: Law and Briefing and Discovery Sub-Committees of the Plaintiffs' Steering Committee for the Guidant Multi-District Litigation No.05-1708; Discovery and Expert Sub-Committees of the Plaintiffs' Steering Committee for the Denture Cream Multi-District Litigation No. 2051; Ms. Muhlstock has also done work on behalf of the Plaintiffs' Steering Committee in In re Ortho Evra Products Liability Litigation, both in Multi-District Litigation No. 1742 and in the New Jersey Mass Tort No. 275, and the New York Plaintiffs' Steering Committee in the coordinated ReNu with MoistureLoc litigation before the Hon. Shirley Kornreich. Professional Memberships: American Association for Justice (AAJ); American Bar Association (ABA); and New York State Bar Association. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Ms. Muhlstock spent seven years representing pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers of medical devices and consumer products. While in law school, she was also an extern for the United States Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Illinois where she tried petty offense cases and assisted in the prosecution of organized crime and narcotics felony cases. Publications: Co-author of “Liability for Off-Label Uses: Coordinating a Response with the Prescribing Physician”, which was presented at the American Conference Institute’s Drug and Medical Device Litigation Conference, December, 1998. Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Toxic Torts, Defective Drug Liability, Defective Medical Devices, Products Liability, Class Actions, Complex Litigation and General Personal Injury and Negligence Litigation.
Herman Badillo (Senior Counsel) born Caguas, Puerto Rico. Admitted to bar: 1955, New York; U.S. District Court, Eastern and Southern Districts of New York; U.S. Supreme Court. Education: City College of New York (B.A, magna cum laude, 1951); Brooklyn Law School (J.D., cum laude, Class Valedictorian, 1954). Other Professional Licenses: Certified Public Accountant. Public Service: Member and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the City University of New York (1990-2001); Special Counsel for the Fiscal Oversight of Education for Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani (1994-1997); Chairman of the Board of Directors of the N.Y. State Mortgage Agency (1984-1986); Deputy Mayor – City of New York (1978-1979); Member of United States Congress (1970-1979); Bronx Borough President (1966-1970); New York City Housing Commissioner (1962-1965). Publications: One Nation, One Standard and A Bill of No Rights: Attica and the American Prison System. Memberships: Mr. Badillo serves on many civic and community organizations including the Board of Trustees of Brooklyn Law Schoool. Practice Areas: Mr. Badillo will focus on personal injury, product liability and other significant litigation. Other: Fluent in Spanish
Jay L. T. Breakstone, (Appellate Counsel), born Brooklyn, New York. Bar Admissions: New York (1977); Supreme Court of the United States (1986); United States Claims Court (1989); United States Court of Appeals, 2d Cir. (1977), 3rd Cir. (1982); United States District Court, Southern District of New York and Eastern District of New York. (1977). Education: Long Island University (B.A.,1972); Brooklyn Law School (J.D., 1976). Professional Memberships: New York State Trial Lawyers Association (Amicus Committee). Publications: Editor, “MondayMonday”, weekly appellate newsletter for trial attorneys; Columnist, Appellate Law, “Bill of Particulars”, quarterly publication of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association. Community Affairs: Member, Board of Trustees, Bellmore (New York) Union Free School District (elected); Immediate Past President, Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association; Member, New York State School Boards Association, State Legislative Network; Candidate, New York State Assembly. Professional Committees and Presentations: Judicial Selection Committee (New York State Court of Appeals), New York State Trial Lawyers Association (1999); St. John’s University School of Law, Continuing Legal Education Seminar, Lecturer (1998); New York State Trial Lawyers, Continuing Legal Education, Lecturer (1998-2002); New York County Lawyer’s Association, Continuing Legal Education, Lecturer (2000). Academic Affairs: C.W. Post College, Long Island University, Adjunct Professor Communications (1992-3). Awards and Honors: Honorary Lifetime Membership Award, New York State Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (1999); News12 Long Island, “Speaking Out for Long Island Schools Award (2011)”; Bellmore Union Free School District Past President Award (2011); Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association Past President Award (2011). Practice Areas: Appellate (Federal and State). Background: Beginning his career at ABC Radio News in New York City, Mr. Breakstone has enjoyed wide experience in the law, including high-stakes criminal defense, civil litigation as a partner in a “boutique” midtown Manhattan firm, and even as a partner in his own general practice law firm. For years now, as an appellate attorney, he has concentrated in the prosecution and defense of plaintiff’s personal injury appeals, and a is prolific writer and lecturer for members of the Bar.
Erin Geraghty Bray (Senior Litigation Counsel), born Ft. Myers, Florida. Admitted to bar: 1997, Florida, 2000, U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, 2010, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida. Education: The University of Florida (B.A., 1991); Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law Center (J.D., 1997), Moot Court, Moot Court Board of Directors. Member: Florida Bar Trial Lawyers Section, Lee County Bar Association; Collier County Bar Association. Professional Experience: Assistant State Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida (1997- 2004); Senior Trial Attorney, Allstate Insurance Company (2004-2008); Senior Trial Attorney State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company (2008-2010); Senior Litigation Counsel, Company Litigation Department, Fidelity National Financial (2010- 2011). Martindale Hubbel Rating: BV. Practice Areas: Trials; Automobile Accidents; Medical Malpractice; and General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
Daniel C. Burke, (Senior Litigation Counsel), born Bay Shore, New York. Admitted to Bar: 1994, New York; 2004, U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York; 2011, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. Education: State University of New York at Albany (B.A., 1990); St. John's University School of Law (J.D., 1993). Member: Plaintiffs' Steering Committee for In re: Zimmer NexGen Knee Implant Products Liability Litigation, MDL No. 2272; Discovery and Law & Briefing Sub-Committees for Denture Cream Products Liability Litigation, MDL No. 2051; Science and Discovery Sub-Committees for Yasmin & Yaz (Drospirenone) Marketing, Sales Practices & Products Liability Litigation, MDL No. 2100. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Mr. Burke spent ten years representing plaintiffs in a broad range of personal injury matters including general negligence, asbestos litigation and mass tort pharmaceutical and medical device litigation, including work on behalf of liaison counsel to the New York Plaintiffs' Steering Committee for In re: New York ReNu with MoistureLoc Product Liability Litigation, Index No.: 766,000/07. Invited Presentations: Harris Martin MDL Conference re: "Actos 101," Savannah, Georgia, November 30, 2011; American Association for Justice (AAJ) Yaz/Yasmin Teleseminar re: "Gallbladder Update," November 10, 2011; Harris Martin MDL Conference re: “Zimmer NexGen Knee Implant Products Liability Litigation -- An Overview of the Science," San Francisco, California, July 27, 2011 Professional Memberships: American Association for Justice (AAJ), New York State Trial Lawyers Association (NYSTLA). Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Defective Drug/Pharmaceutical Liability, Defective Medical Devices, Asbestos Litigation, Toxic Torts, Products Liability, Class Actions, Complex Litigation, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Negligence and Medical Malpractice.
Peter J. Cambs (Senior Litigation Counsel), born Bronx, New York. Admitted to the bar: 1984, New York, U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western Districts of New York; 2010, Florida State Courts; U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Middle and Southern Districts of Florida. Education: State University of New York at Oswego (B.S., 1979); Pace University School of Law (J.D., 1983). Professional Experience: Former Assistant District Attorney, Bronx, New York; Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Mr. Cambs spent over 25 years representing litigants in cases involving claims of medical malpractice, product liability, motor vehicle accidents, labor and construction site injuries, fire and explosion accidents, pharmaceutical liability, etc. He has tried in excess of 125 cases to verdict. Member: Trial Team Member for Chinese Manufactured Drywall Product Liability Multi-District Litigation No. 2047; Law & Briefing, Damages and Client Relations Committees for Apple IPhone 3G and 3GS Marketing and Sales Practices Multi-District Litigation No.: 2116; Law & Pleading and Discovery Committees for Light Tobacco Marketing Litigation Sales Practices Multi-District Litigation No. 2068; Plaintiff’s Steering Committee, Ford Navistar Diesel Engine Products Liability Litigation Multi-District Litigation No. 2223; New York SuperLawyers ® in 2008, 2009, 2010; Martindale Hubbell Rating: Highest “AV—Preeminent Lawyer”. Author & Lecturer: Hydro-Fracking Litigation, (Pace University, 2010); Alien Tort Claims Torture Act & Victims Protection Act (Pace University, 2010); Environmental Impact of Gas Fracking (Fordham University Law School, 2011); Jury Selection Techniques; Deposition Strategies and Discovery; Investigating Truck Accidents and Accident Reconstruction; Current Developments in Labor Law 241(6) Litigation; Liability of Component Part manufacturers: At What Stage Do Component Parts Become Finished Products?; Cross Examining the Accident Reconstruction Expert. Reported cases: Moriarity vs Wallace, 61 AD 3d 1088; Johnson v Panera Bread, 59 AD 3d 1118; Diaz v Syracuse Univesity, 41 AD 3d 1302; Perkow v Frank Winnie, 36 AD 3d 1189; Millard v Alliance Laundry Systems, 32 AD 3d 1293; Beaumont vs Federal Express, 16 Ad 3d 1106; Excellus vs Smyth, 784 NY 2d 284; Lakeshore v General Electric, 307 Ad 2d 781; Kolz v Rand, 2298 A.D. 2d 982; Gallagher v TDS Telecom, 294 A.D. 2d 860; Cumis v Tooke, 293 AD 2d 794; Orzel v Livesly, 292 Ad 2d 880; Husted vs Vermelyea, 291 AD 2d 825; Middelton v Kenney, 286 AD 2d 957; Cummins v Central Tractor, 281 AD 2d 792; Mamorella v Derkash, 276 Ad 2d 152; Shue v Red Creek School, 266 Ad 2d 899; Cook v Parish Oil 239 AD 2d 956; Tanner v Onondaga, 225 Ad 2d 1074; Koperda v Whitetown, 224 AD 2d 946; Niles v Shu Roofing 219 Ad 2d 782; Musserlli v Niagara Machine, 214 AD 2d 856; Cole v Syracuse Community Health center, 209 AD 2d 1005; Baker vs Micro-Switch, a div. of Honeywell, 197 Ad2d 933; LaFrance v State, 147 AD 2d 985; Bradt v Hamel, 144 Ad 2d 921. Areas of Practice: Mass Torts; Toxic Torts; Defective Medical Devices and Pharmaceutical Liability; Personal Injury Litigation and Wrongful Death Claims; Medical Malpractice and Product Liability claims.
William J. Dubanevich (Associate) Born New York, New York. Admitted to the New York Bar: 2003, U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Eastern and Districts of New York; 2003, U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York; 2010. Education: Harpur College of the State University Of New York at Binghamton, B.A. Economics, Pace University School of Law, J.D. and Environmental Law Certificate. Professional Memberships: Association of the Bar of the City of New York, New York County Lawyers’ Association. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Mr. Dubanevich was the head of the environmental litigation department for a large New York based plaintiffs’ law firm. Mr. Dubanevich has represented municipal water districts and private individuals throughout New York, New England and Florida in ground water contamination cases related to the release of petroleum products containing the additive Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (“MTBE”), creosote, arsenic and other hazardous chemicals. He facilitated the recovery of tens of millions of dollars on behalf of plaintiffs damaged by environmental contamination. Mr. Dubanevich represented hundreds of WTC rescue and recovery workers in the September 11th Victims Compensation Fund (VCF) and worked extensively in the World Trade Center litigation. Mr. Dubanevich was Director of Safety and Health for the New York State Building and Construction Trades’ Council, AFL-CIO, Director of the Hudson Valley regional Office for the New York Committee on Occupational Safety and Health, and President of Hudson Environmental Services. He has developed occupational and environmental compliance programs for labor and industry and lectured on the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act, (CERCLA), Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) standards. Publications: Boston, Madden, and Dubanevich, Law of Environmental and Toxic Torts: Cases Materials, and Problems, Teacher’s Manual, (2d Ed. West 2002). Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Environmental Litigation, Toxic Torts, Defective Drug Liability, Products Liability, Class Actions, Complex Litigation, Labor Law and Negligence Litigation. Awards: The Henry M. Feldschuh Environmental Law Award, White Plains Bar Association Outstanding Clinical Award, Pace University School of Law Excellence in Clinical Education Award and Toxic Victims Access to Justice Coalition Service Award. Presentations: Presentations Hydrofracking: The Explosive Issue of Natural Gas Drilling, Center for Environmental Legal Studies and Center for Continuing Legal Education, Pace University School of Law, April14, 2011. Committees: New York State Judicial Training Institute, Environmental Crimes Program Steering Committee Member, New York Committee on Occupational Safety and Health, Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy.
Gary P. Falkowitz (Managing Attorney, New Case/Intake Unit) born Brooklyn, New York. Admitted to bar: 2005, New York; New Jersey; 2008, U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York; 2010, U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Education: Brandeis University (B.A., 2002); St. John’s University School of Law (J.D., 2005). Member: New York State Bar Association and American Association for Justice. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Mr. Falkowitz was an Assistant District Attorney for the Kings County District Attorney’s Office prosecuting a wide array of misdemeanor and felony crimes. Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Consumer Fraud, Qui-Tam Litigation, Automobile Accidents; Products Liability; Medical Malpractice; Workers’ Compensation; and General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
April S. Goodwin, (Associate), born Sidney, Ohio. Admitted to bar: 2001, Florida; 2009, United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Education: The Ohio State University (B.S, 1995) (M.A., Candidate Health, Physical Education, Recreation 1995-1996); Ohio Northern University College of Law (J.D., 2001). Member: Florida Bar Association. Professional Experience: Ms. Goodwin was an Assistant State Attorney in the 20th Judicial Clerk Circuit from August 2001 to May 2004 prosecuting a wide array of misdemeanor and felony crimes; Investigator for Van Wert County Department of Human Services. Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Toxic Torts, Defective Drug Liability, Defective Medical Devices, Products Liability, Class Actions, Complex Litigation and General Personal Injury and Negligence Litigation.
Stephanie M. Herschaft (Associate), born Queens, New York. Admitted to bar: 2012, New York. Education: Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations (B.S., 2007); University of Michigan Law School (J.D., 2011). Member: New York County Lawyers’ Association and Nassau County Bar Association.
James G. Kapralos, (Associate), born New York, New York. Admitted to bar: 1994, New York; U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Education: Hofstra University (B.B.A., 1989); Hofstra University School of Law (J.D., 1993). Member: New York State Trial Lawyers Association; Nassau County Bar Association. Practice Areas: Nursing Home Negligence Litigation; Trials, Medical Malpractice; Products Liability; General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
Yat Fai Lau, (Associate) born Hong Kong, China. Admitted to bar: 2006, New York. Education: St. John’s University (B.A., 2001); Albany Law School (J.D., 2005); Practice Areas: Mass Torts, Toxic Torts, Defective Drug Liability, Defective Medical Devices, Products Liability, Class Actions, Complex Litigation and General Personal Injury and Negligence Litigation.
Brett R. Leitner (Associate), born New Hyde Park, New York. Admitted to bar: 2001, New York; 2003, U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; U.S. Court of Appeals, Second Circuit. Education: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (B.A., 1997); Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law (J.D., 2000). Author: “The Effect of a Default Judgment Against a Third-Party Defendant”, New York Law Journal (October 9, 2002). Member: American Bar Association. Reported Cases: Finkel v. Frattarelli Bros., 2008 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 46973 (E.D.N.Y. June 17, 2008); Ramirez v. Marriott Corp., 2005 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 929 (S.D.N.Y. Jan. 24, 2005); Kivlehan v. 2220 Adams Place Realty Corp., 2 Misc. 3d 851, 774 N.Y.S.2d 626 (N.Y.Sup.Ct. 2003); Lester v. N.Y. City Hous. Auth., 292 A.D.2d 510, 739 N.Y.S.2d 200 (2d Dep't 2002). Practice Areas: Nursing Home Negligence Litigation; Trials; Medical Malpractice; Products Liability; General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
Jonathan C. Macri (Associate), born Staten Island, New York. Admitted to bar: 2012, New York. Education: Fordham University, College of Business Administration (B.S., Summa Cum Laude, 2005); Fordham University School of Law (J.D., 2010). Member: New York State Bar Association; New York County Lawyers’ Association. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP in 2012, Mr. Macri was an Associate with a boutique plaintiff’s firm located in Manhattan, where he specialized in all aspects of civil litigation from inception to trial. Mr. Macri is currently an Adjunct Professor of Law at Fordham Law School, where he coaches trial advocacy for the Brendan Moore Trial Advocates, for which he served as Editor-in-Chief while at Fordham and with whom he won several individual and team awards at various national competitions, including winning First Place and Best Summation at the 2009 Lone Star Classic at St. Mary’s School of Law. He was also a proud member of the Stein Scholars for Public Interest in law school, and completed internships at the Bronx Office of the District Attorney, Safe Horizon’s Domestic Violence Law Project, and with the Honorable Robert K. Holdman. Practice Areas: Trials, General Personal Injury, and Negligence Litigation.
Matthew J. McCauley, (Senior Litigation Counsel), born New York, New York. Admitted to bar: 2001, New York, Massachusetts and District of Columbia; 2003; U.S. District Court, Southern, Eastern and Western Districts of New York. Education: Iona College (B.S., 1992); Pace University School of Law (J.D., 2001). Member: New York State Bar Association. Professional Experience: Prior to joining Parker Waichman LLP, Mr. McCauley completed a clerkship in the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and then defended manufacturers of pharmaceuticals and medical devices for next seven years. Mr. McCauley is currently a Town Prosecutor for the Town of Mamaroneck in Westchester County and a NYS Paramedic for more than 20 years. Prior to practicing law, Mr. McCauley was a New York City Police Officer and during law school completed an externship with the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York in the Terrorism Prosecution Division. Reported Cases: Estate of LaMontagne v. Bristol-Myers Squibb, 127 Wash.App. 335, 111 P.3d 857 (Wash.App. Div.1 Apr 04, 2005). Presentations and Publications: "Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Documentation and its Legal Implications", New York State Continuing Medical Education Program sponsored by North Salem Ambulance Service in conjunction with Westchester County Department of Emergency Services, 2009. Practice Areas: Trials, Mass Torts, Defective Drug Liability, Defective Medical Devices, Products Liability and Complex Litigations.
Lauren B. Sutton, (Associate), born Manhasset, New York. Admitted to bar: 2007, New York; 2008 U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Education: Syracuse University (B.S., 2002); City University of New York School of Law (J.D., 2006). Member: American Bar Association. Practice Areas: Automobile Accidents; Products Liability; Medical Malpractice; Workers’ Compensation; and General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
Justin Varughese, (Associate), born Mineola, New York. Admitted to bar: 2004, New York; United States District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Education: University of Maryland (B.A., 2000); St. John's University School of Law (J.D., 2003). Member: New York State Trial Lawyers Association; Nassau County Bar Association, American Bar Association. Practice Areas: Nursing Home Negligence Litigation; Trials; Medical Malpractice; Products Liability; General Personal Injury Negligence Litigation.
Nicholas Warywoda (Associate), Rosedale, New York. Admitted to bar: 2001, New York; 2005, U.S. District Courts, Eastern and Southern Districts of New York. Education: Long Island University/Southampton College (B.S., 1997), Brooklyn Law School (J.D., 2001). Member: New York City Trial Lawyers Association, Member of Board of Directors; American Association for Justice, New York State Trial Lawyers Association. Professional Experience: Mr. Warywoda’s entire legal career has been dedicated to representing plaintiffs in the areas of general negligence, medical malpractice, products liability and civil rights. Prior to joining Parker Waichman, LLP Mr. Warywoda was the Senior Trial Attorney for a large New York based personal injury law firm. Practice Areas: Automobile Accidents, General Negligence Litigation, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice and Products Liability.
Michael S. Werner, (Associate), born Rockville Centre, New York. Admitted to bar: 2009, New York. Education: Baruch College (B.S., 2004); St. John’s University School of Law (J.D., 2008). Member: Nassau County Bar Association; New York State Bar Association. Practice Areas: Mass Torts; Commercial Litigation; General Personal Injury and Negligence Litigation.
Arnold E. DiJoseph, III, (Appellate Counsel) born Brooklyn, New York. Admitted to bar: 1984, New York; U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; 1986, U.S. Court of Appeals, Second Circuit. Education: Dickinson College (B.A., 1980); Touro College, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center (J.D., 1983). Member: American Bar Association; New York State Bar Association; Richmond County Bar Association; New York State Trial Lawyers Association (Amicus Committee); New York County Lawyers Association;. Practice Areas: State and Federal Appellate Practice; Trials; Legal, Medical, and Dental Malpractice; Construction Accidents; Products’ Liability; Adoptions; and Workers’ Compensation.
Jeffrey L. Goldberg (of Counsel), For the past 35 years, Jeffrey L. Goldberg, Esq. has represented New York City Civil Service Clients with pride. After receiving his JD from Brooklyn Law School in 1974, Mr. Goldberg was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1975. Mr. Goldberg worked for the New York State Assembly Codes Committee and a major insurance company, before joining a premiere Civil Service law firm which represented the Uniform Fire Officers Association. It was early in his tenure at this firm that Mr. Goldberg discovered the particular niche in which he developed a level of expertise unparalleled in New York City legal circles.
During his years of practice, Mr. Goldberg has honed his expertise in a wide variety of cases in which he was able to win justice for hundreds of beleaguered New York City workers, primarily from the New York City Police Department, New York City Fire Department, New York City Department of Correction, New York City Emergency Medical Services, New York City Department of Sanitation and other City and State agencies. The kinds of cases for which Mr. Goldberg has represented his clients (but are not limited to) are disability retirement applications, Social Security disability, Article 78 proceedings, discrimination and disqualifications. In the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Mr. Goldberg assisted a large number of disabled emergency responders in obtaining the compensation they were entitled to.
Seeking new professional challenges, Mr. Goldberg became Counsel to Parker Waichman, LLP, which is one of the foremost personal injury and mass tort firms in the country. He is extremely excited about beginning what is anticipated to be a long and productive collaboration.
Kelli A. Alexander, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Alexander has over ten years experience in the field of personal injury law. Prior to joining PW several years ago, Ms. Alexander gained valuable experience as a paralegal working on claims involving automobile accidents, slip and fall cases, construction accidents and defective products. Since joining PW, Ms. Alexander has applied her knowledge and experience to our Mass Torts Division working on national litigation of defective pharmaceuticals, medical devices and other product liability claims.
S. Rheagan Alexander, (Clerk, Mass Torts) Ms. Alexander is a third-year law student at Pace Law School, where she will earn a J.D. and environmental law certificate in May 2012. Prior to beginning her legal education, Ms. Alexander worked as an environmental monitor for upstream energy production. In this capacity, she was employed by federal agencies and private corporations responsible for environmental compliance in oil and natural gas exploration and production, hydroelectric development, and electrical transmission projects. Since joining the Mass Torts Division at PW, Ms. Alexander has been working on national litigation of claims arising from oil and gas production and hazardous waste.
Jessica Barker, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Barker is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her duties include data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. Barker holds a Bachelor of Art in Sociology from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. She is currently attending the Paralegal Studies Program at Queens College.
Julio Benitez, (Building Maintenance) Mr. Benitez is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the interior and exterior of the main PW office in Port Washington, New York.
Alison J. Bifulco, (Paralegal/Pre-Suit Unit) Ms. Bifulco has been employed by PW for more than ten years and is presently assigned to the firm’s Pre-Suit Unit. This unit focuses on the initial development of negligence actions including automobile accidents and slip and fall claims. Ms. Bifulco is responsible for monitoring clients’ no-fault benefits, requesting and obtaining hospital and medical records as well as developing claims for settlement or the filing of a law suit. Ms. Bifulco also assists the calendar department when necessary.
Tanya N. Bogan, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Bogan is employed as an intake specialist/legal assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. Bogan is a recent graduate of Hunter Business School.
Yolanda Bradley, (Paralegal) Ms. Bradley has been employed by PW for more than eight years and has more than twenty years of legal experience in both plaintiffs’ and defendants’ personal injury litigation. Ms. Bradley assists several attorneys in our litigation department, working on cases from beginning to end including the preparation of legal documents, no-fault filings, infant’s compromises and Surrogates court filings.
Jamie L. Burke, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Burke is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her duties include data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. Burke holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Delaware.
Daniela D. Campoli, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Campoli is employed as an intake specialist/legal assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Ms. Campoli currently attends St. John’s University pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration on Forensic Psychology.
Genesis Candelario, (File Clerk) Mr. Candelario is responsible for assisting in the smooth operation and organization of PW's file and mail room. Mr. Candelario also supports the firm’s staff with photocopying, filing, scanning, faxing and mailing.
Stacy Candalino, (Case Manager) Ms. Candalino began working with PW as a Legal Assistant/Intake Specialist in our Intake Unit several years ago after earning a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from C.W. Post University. After graduating with honors from the Paralegal Program at Hofstra University in 2008, Ms. Candalino has taken on new responsibilities as a paralegal in our Pre-Suit Unit developing negligence cases for settlement or commencement of litigation.
Jillian Cantinieri, (Supervisor, Pre-Suit Unit) Ms. Cantinieri has been employed by PW for more than eight years having brought fifteen years of experience in the personal injury field to our firm. Ms. Cantinieri oversees the development of negligence claims from inception to settlement or filing of suit. She maintains daily interaction with clients, attends mediations, and, under the supervision of our attorneys, negotiates claims with insurance carriers. Ms. Cantinieri was the executive assistant producer of the firm’s television advertising campaign and is a Notary Public.
Ashley M. Castro, (Paralegal, Mass Tort) Ms. Castro has three years of personal injury litigation experience and is currently a paralegal in our Mass Tort division, working with one of the firm’s partners on several multi-district litigations involving defective pharmaceuticals and other product liability claims. Ms. Castro holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations from Hofstra University and is currently a law student at Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center.
Laura Cervoni, (Legal Assistant) Ms. Cervoni is employed by PW as a legal assistant. Her duties include data input as well as file maintenance on new and existing cases. Ms. Cervoni holds a Bachelor of Science from Adelphi University.
Lillian Chiu, Writer, (Blogger) Ms. Chiu is employed as a blogger at PW and enjoys writing articles about a variety of topics. She contributes to PW’s expanding presence across the web by presenting important information about health, scientific and legal topics to a general audience. Ms. Chiu also has experience as a freelancer and has written blogs for several different websites and writing companies. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fordham University
Kristy Classie, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Classie is employed as a paralegal in the PWs Social Security Disability Benefits and Veterans Administrative Benefits Unit assisting our attorneys in all aspects of these claims. Ms. Classie holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, as well as an Associate’s in Paralegal Studies, from Briarcliffe College. Ms. Classie was previously employed by a law firm specializing in social security disability law.
Roy K. Cronin, (Director, Technology Systems) Mr. Cronin, a Microsoft Certified Professional with more than 10 years of experience, manages the firm’s extensive PC, Network and Telecom systems.
Cindy Custodio, (Paralegal) Ms. Custodio brings eleven years of experience as a legal researcher and assistant court clerk manager for an attorneys’ service to PW. Since joining PW, she has worked in the firm’s Nursing Home Litigation Unit and assists our nursing home attorneys working cases from beginning to end, including preparation of legal documents including complaints, motions, discovery demands and responses, bills of particulars as well as Surrogate's Court filings. Ms. Custodio holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from John Jay College as well as a Paralegal Certificate from Queens College and was awarded an Outstanding Academic Achievement Award from Westlaw.
Joyce Donaldson, (Paralegal) Ms. Donaldson brings eight years experience as a paralegal in personal injury, medical malpractice, products liability and asbestos litigation. Joyce is currently assigned to the Medical Records Unit at PW and is involved in requesting and obtaining clients’ medical records. Joyce holds an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies from Nassau Community College.
Cristen Dove, (Legal Assistant/Receptionist) Ms. Dove is one of the welcoming voices you hear when calling our office. Ms. Dove assists in managing Parker Waichman LLP’s steady high volume of telephone calls as well as performing other firm duties including supervising, scheduling and coordinating PW’s receptionists. Ms. Dove holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Iona College.
Christine Durant, (Paralegal) Ms. Durant is employed as a paralegal in the PWs Social Security Disability Benefits and Veterans Administrative Benefits Unit assisting our attorneys in all aspects of these claims. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a focus on forensics from Alvernia University. Ms. Durant has previous experience as a paralegal in the area of Social Security Disability Benefits specializing in all levels of the claims process.
Nicole Eisner, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Eisner is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as case management and client communications. Ms. Eisner holds a Bachelor of Art in History from Long Island University at C.W. Post and a Paralegal Certificate from Nassau Community College.
Dena Ford, (Receptionist) Ms. Ford is one of the welcoming voices you hear when calling our office, and she makes every effort to ensure the efficient handling of a high volume of calls. Ms. Ford is a highly motivated receptionist with more than twenty years of experience.
Rosella Fuscaldo, (New Case Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Fuscaldo is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her duties included data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. Fuscaldo is currently studying Nutrition at Nassau Community College.
Annmarie George, (Paralegal) Ms. George has more than twenty years experience as a paralegal and has been employed by PW since the firm’s inception in 1993. Ms. George is highly experienced in all aspects of plaintiff’s personal injury litigation, Surrogates Court proceedings and mass tort litigation. She frequently works on special projects with the firms’ partners including the creation, testing, maintenance and user training of SmartAdvocate, the firm’s proprietary state of the art case management system. Ms. George is also a Notary Public.
Karen Goldberg, (R.N., Legal Nurse Consultant) Ms. Goldberg holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Adelphi University and has also successfully completed a Legal Nurse Consultant course. Ms. Goldberg reviews medical records and provides medical summaries for the firm's cases. Ms. Goldberg has many years of experience as a pediatric nurse and continues to work in this area of nursing.
Rosa Guarino, Paralegal. Rosa has worked in the personal injury field as a legal secretary/paralegal for more than twenty years and recently joined our team here at PWA. Rosa currently assists one of the firm’s partners working in the Mass Torts Division on national litigation in the areas of defective pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Rosa is also a Notary Public and a Court Reporter.
Monica Hernandez, (Paralegal) Ms. Hernandez is a long-term PW staff member with eleven years of service as the firm’s bookkeeping assistant. Ms. Hernandez is responsible for payroll information, overseeing office expenditures, and other general office operations.
Samantha Hiltzik, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Hiltzik is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her duties included data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. Baires holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Sacred Heart University. She has previous paralegal experience in both matrimonial and real estate law.
Linda R. Ingber, (Paralegal) Ms. Ingber has been employed in the personal injury field as a legal secretary and law firm office manager for more than twenty years. Since joining PW more than eight years ago, she has worked in the firm’s Nursing Home Litigation Unit. Ms. Ingber assists our nursing home attorneys working cases from beginning to end, including preparation of legal documents including complaints, motions, discovery demands and responses, bills of particulars as well as Surrogate's Court filings. Ms. Ingber holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from SUNY Albany and is a Notary Public.
Natasha L. James, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. James is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her duties include data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. James holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hampton University specializing in Human Resources and Management.
Michele X. Jimenez, (Trial Paralegal) Ms. Jimenez has been employed by PW for six years. She is currently the primary Trial Paralegal at PW and handles all aspects of trial preparation for the firms’ trial attorneys. Ms. Jimenez brings almost twenty years of legal experience and law firm management in the areas of medical malpractice, personal injury and negligence, nursing home negligence, immigration, criminal and family law to our firm. Ms. Jimenez began her employment at PW as a paralegal in our Nursing Home Litigation Unit where she assisted our nursing home attorneys working on the preparation of legal documents, including complaints, motions, discovery demands and responses, bills of particulars, Surrogate’s Court filings and trial preparation. Ms. Jimenez has a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies from John Jay College of Criminal Justice as well as an Associate’s in Paralegal Studies from Bronx Community College. Ms. Jimenez is fluent in Spanish and actively involved in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Jenna Jonassen, (Paralegal) Ms. Jonassen is employed as a paralegal in our Social Security Disability Benefits and Veterans Administrative Benefits Unit and is responsible for assisting our attorneys in all aspects of these claims. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Writing/Communications from Siena College and has previous experience as a Social Security Disability Supervisor and legal assistant specializing in legal writing.
Michelle Josama, (Paralegal) Ms. Josama has worked in the personal injury field as a paralegal and law firm office manager for more than twenty five years. Ms. Josama currently works in the firm’s Nursing Home Litigation Unit and assists our attorneys working on cases from beginning to end. Her responsibilities include preparation of legal documents such as complaints, motions, discovery demands and responses, bills of particulars as well as surrogates court filings. Ms. Josama attended both Queens College and Technical Career Institute and is also a licensed Real Estate Agent.
Danielle Kappel, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Kappel is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as case management and client communications. Ms. Kappel holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising and Marketing Communications from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Hannah Kim, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Kim has eight years experience in the field of personal injury law. Prior to joining PW five years ago, Ms. Kim was employed as a paralegal working on a range of negligence actions including auto accidents, slip and fall cases, construction accidents and defective products. Ms. Kim has applied her knowledge and experience in the personal injury field to PW’s Mass Torts Division which litigates pharmaceutical and medical devices claims nationwide.
Jamie Kull, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Kull brings nine years of law firm experience to PW and is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as case management and client communications.
Matthew G. Levy, (Supervisor, Pre-Suit Unit) Mr. Levy has been employed by PW for more than nine years having brought twenty years of experience in the personal injury field to our firm. Mr. Levy oversees the development of the negligence claims from inception to settlement or the filing of suit. He maintains daily interaction with clients, attends mediations, and, under the supervision of our attorneys, negotiates claims with insurance carriers. Mr. Levy received a Bachelor of Science from SUNY at Old Westbury and a Master’s in Business Administration from Dowling College.
Anna Louca, (Legal Assistant/Receptionist) Ms. Louca is employed in PW’s medical records unit which supports the firm’s numerous departments through requesting, processing and organizing PW’s high volume of client medical records. Ms. Louca has more than eight years experience as a professional receptionist and administrative assistant. She holds an Associate’s degree in Legal Occupational Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Management from Briarcliffe College. Ms. Louca is fluent in Greek/Cypriot and is a Notary Public.
Lynda L. Luckman, (Paralegal) Ms. Luckman has worked in the personal injury field as a legal secretary/paralegal for more than twenty five years and has been employed by PW for more than seven years. Ms. Luckman is currently assigned to work with one of the firm’s trial attorneys and assists in litigating cases from the commencement of a lawsuit through discovery, depositions, motions, and trial. Ms. Luckman is also a Notary Public.
Kirsten Mandell, (Receptionist) Ms. Mandell is one of the welcoming voices you hear when calling our office, and she makes every effort to ensure efficiency while handling a high volume of calls. Ms. Mandell has more than eight years of experience working as a receptionist and is fluent in Spanish.
Audra M. Massimo, (Trial Paralegal) Ms. Massimo has been employed by PW for more than nine years having brought more than fourteen years experience in the field of personal injury litigation to our firm. She is the primary trial paralegal at PW and handles all aspects of trial preparation for the firms’ trial attorneys. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Massimo worked in the areas of plaintiffs’ mass tort asbestos related claims and in-house insurance defense. Ms. Massimo holds a Paralegal Certificate from Adelphi University and is a Notary Public.
Tricia McCoy, (Director of Marketing) Ms. McCoy brings more than 14 years of experience developing, implementing and leading short and long term brand building strategies to her marketing role at PW. She oversees the development of all firm and practice group marketing materials as well as leads the firm’s community outreach initiatives. Ms. McCoy holds a Bachelors of Science in Advertising from the New York Institute of Technology.
Diallo McKnight, (Legal Assistant) Mr. McKnight is a valued member of the staff at PW and works closely with our attorneys, paralegals and legal assistants. He is responsible for court filings, delivery and retrieval of time sensitive documents, intake of new case information, accompanying clients to IMEs, file room assistance, investigations, and other special projects. Mr. McKnight attended Virginia State University and is currently attending Monroe College.
Michelle M. Milone, (Settlement Paralegal) Ms. Milone has been employed by PW for more than fifteen years and is responsible for the calculation and distribution of settlement proceeds to clients, the firm and referring attorneys. Ms. Milone has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New York at Albany as well as a Paralegal degree from Adelphi University's Graduate Level Paralegal program.
Monica Mora, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Mora has more than nine years of paralegal experience and is currently assigned to PW's Mass Torts Division primarily working in the area of Alien Tort Claims. Mrs. Mora holds a Paralegal degree from Briar Cliff College, speaks Spanish fluently and is a Notary Public.
Lauren D. Morales, (Receptionist) Ms. Morales is responsible for providing superior client service at PW utilizing her knowledge ranging from the hospitality industry to her most recent office experience with an engineering firm in professionally handling the daily high volume of calls received at PW. She holds a Bachelor of Art in Environmental Studies and Ecology from Stony Brook University.
Descire Mori, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Mori has worked in the field of personal injury and medical malpractice for more than seven years. She holds an Associate's Degree from her native country, Peru, and speaks Spanish fluently. Ms. Mori works in PW's Mass Torts Division in the area of Alien Tort Claims.
Carrie Mullahey, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Prior to joining PW five years ago, Ms. Mullahey was employed as an Office Manager of a large orthopedic practice. Ms. Mullahey has applied her knowledge and experience in the medical field to PW’s Mass Torts Division which litigates pharmaceutical and medical device claims nationwide.
Kathleen O’Connor, (Executive Legal Assistant) Ms. O’Connor has worked in the personal injury field as a legal secretary for more than twenty five years and has been employed by PW for fifteen years assisting the managing partners on various special projects. She is currently the coordinator of the firm’s Case Referral Department. Ms. O’Connor received a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Communications from Queens College and was awarded lifetime membership to Pi Sigma Alpha and the Golden Key National Honor Society for academic excellence. Ms. O’Connor is also a Notary Public.
Michelle Pabon, (Paralegal) Ms. Pabon joins the Nursing Home Litigation Unit as a paralegal with more than 12 years experience in personal injury, negligence, medical malpractice, family and criminal law. She assists our nursing home attorneys in all phases of litigation from inception to end. Ms. Pabon holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ithaca College and a Juris Doctorate from Hofstra University School of Law. Ms. Pabon is fluent in Spanish.
Jennifer Palmer, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Palmer is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as case management and client communications. Ms. Palmer is currently studying at Sanford Brown College to earn a Medical Assistant’s degree..
Carlos Panameno, (Web Developer/SEO) Mr. Panameno is a native of El Salvador with nearly 15 years of experience in web technology. After receiving a B.S. in Architectural Technology from NYIT, he studied Computer Graphics and Animation at NYU and became a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. As an SEO web developer, Mr. Panameno has experience with the design, development, and maintenance of hundreds of popular sites including Yahoo and MSN. Mr. Panameno served in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1990.
Sean Parker, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Mr. Parker has beens employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department for more than five years. His duties include data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication and interaction. He also assists the managing partners on various mass tort litigations including Chinese Drywall and Denture Cream. Mr. Parker holds a Bachelor of Art's in Legal Studies from Florida Gulf Coast University and plans on attending law school.
Jorge Peniche, (Supervisor, File Room) Mr. Peniche is responsible for the smooth operation and organization of the firm’s file and mail room. Mr. Peniche, a highly experienced law firm file room manager, supervises the file room staff and supports the firm’s employees with photocopying, filing, scanning, faxing and mailing.
Rachel Rapisarda , (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Rapisarda is currently employed as a paralegal in our Mass Torts unit assisting attorneys in managing multi-district litigation actions involving defective pharmaceuticals and other product liability claims nationwide. She has previous paralegal experience in the litigation and arbitration of no fault claims as well as in the creation and administration of trusts and estates. Ms. Rapisarda holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Legal Studies from Hofstra University.
Yoci Rivera, (File Clerk)Mr. Rivera is responsible for assisting in the smooth operation and organization of PW's file and mail room. Mr. Rivera additionally supports the firm’s staff with photocopying, filing, scanning, faxing and mailing.
Jodette Rodriguez, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Rodriguez is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as client communication. Ms. Rodriguez holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from CUNY Brooklyn College and has several years of experience in client services and administrative support.
Jill Rosenthal, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Rosenthal is presently employed as paralegal in PW’s Mass Torts Unit. Ms. Rosenthal recently returned to PW after venturing into the fashion industry and working as an account executive. She has worked in many capacities at PW and has applied her knowledge and experience in these various areas to PW’s Mass Torts Division which litigates pharmaceutical and medical devices claims nationwide. Ms. Rosenthal holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Hofstra University.
Kathleen M. Rotunno, (Paralegal) Ms. Rotunno is employed as a paralegal in the firm’s litigation department and is assigned to work with one of the firm’s trial attorneys. Ms. Rotunno assists in litigating our cases from the commencement of the lawsuit through discovery, depositions, motions, and trial. She brings more than six years of experience in personal injury law to PW and holds a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies from St. John’s University.
Kelly Ryan, Supervisor, (Intake Unit) Ms. Ryan has been a PW staff member for more than six years and provides oversight of the firm’s intake department which consists of a staff of legal assistants and paralegals responsible for obtaining initial case information and documents from potential clients. Ms. Ryan is the firm’s liaison with law firms that refer cases to our firm as well as with law firms to whom PW refers cases. She is also responsible for maintaining and managing the firm’s drug and defective medical device information database. Ms. Ryan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Hofstra University.
Nancy Saporito, (Paralegal, Mass Torts) Ms. Saporito has more than twenty-five years experience in the field of personal injury, product liability, construction accidents, defective products litigation, trial preparation, medical malpractice and matrimonial family law. Following relocation to Florida, she gained valuable experience in the areas of matrimonial and criminal law working as a Judicial Assistant in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. Since re-joining PW in our Florida office, Ms. Saporito has applied her knowledge and experience to our Mass Torts Division, working on national litigation of product liability, pharmaceutical claims and other areas of expertise.
Lauren Schmitt, (Legal Assistant, Mass Torts) Ms. Schmitt is employed as a legal assistant in the firm’s Mass Torts unit working primarily on claims relating to Hurricane Katrina, FEMA trailer litigation and the Mississippi oil spill litigation. Ms. Schmitt holds a Bachelor of Science and attended both the University of New Hampshire and the University of Wyoming.
Kristin Sheridan, (Paralegal) Ms. Sheridan is employed as a paralegal in the Social Security Disability Benefits and Veterans Administrative Benefits Unit and is responsible for assisting our attorneys in all aspects of these claims. Ms. Sheridan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Political Science from North Carolina State University and has previous experience as a Social Security Disability paralegal specializing in legal writing and as an Assistant Court Clerk.
Molly Sherman, (Clerk, Mass Torts) Ms. Sherman is employed as a paralegal in PW’s Mass Torts Unit assisting our attorneys in all aspects of these claims. Ms. Sherman received her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics and Law from Binghamton University as well as a Paralegal Certificate from C.W. Post University.
Heather Skelton, (Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant) Ms. Skelton is employed as an Intake Specialist/Legal Assistant in PW’s Intake Department. Her responsibilities include data input of new case inquiries as well as case management and client communications. Ms. Skelton holds a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Hofstra University.
Kate Smith, (Paralegal) Ms. Smith has worked in the personal injury field as a paralegal/legal secretary for fifteen years. She currently works with one of the firm’s trial attorneys and assists in litigating cases from the commencement of the lawsuit through discovery, depositions, motions, and trial. Ms. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of New York at Old Westbury as well as a Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Nassau Community College and an AAS in Legal Office Technology. She is also a Notary Public.
Collin J. Spears, (Intern, Mass Torts) Mr. Spears is currently a third year law student at Pace School of Law in White Plains New York. He is currently working on Hydraulic Fracturing (fracking) cases for PW including extensive research into the drilling activities of large scale gas firms. He has previously worked for the Pace Energy and Climate Center, the Bronx Supreme Court, and the UN Mission to the Republic of Suriname. Mr. Spears holds a Bachelor’s of Art in Political Science from the University of New Mexico.
Andrea Spector, (Nurse Consultant) Ms. Spector is a Registered Nurse who holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Ms. Spector has many years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and continues to practice in the field of pediatrics. Ms. Spector has completed a Legal Nurse Consultant program and is responsible for reviewing medical records and providing medical summaries for the firm’s cases.
Dolores Steinman, (Accounting Assistant) Ms. Steinman is employed in PW’s Accounting Department and assists the firm’s Settlement Paralegal with the various procedures involved in the distribution of settlement proceeds as well as our Bookkeeping Department with various accounting and record keeping processes. Ms. Steinman holds an Associate’s Degree in Accounting and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the City University of New York at Queens College.
Joanne Stevens, (Nurse Consultant) Ms. Stevens is a Licensed Practical Nurse and for many years worked in her field at various local hospitals and orthopedic offices frequently specializing in the area of surgery and wound care. Ms. Stevens has been employed by PW as a nurse consultant for several years and reviews medical records and provides medical summaries for firm cases. Ms. Stevens volunteers in her community assisting the elderly with proper wound care.
Denny Tang, (Legal Assistant) Mr. Tang assists many of the firm’s paralegals in requesting, processing and organizing client medical records. He presently attends City Tech in Brooklyn, New York pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies.
Julie Trinidad, (Case Manager, Pre-Suit Unit) Ms. Trinidad has over fifteen years of extensive experience in the field of personal injury law. Prior to joining PW she worked as a senior paralegal with a law office specializing in personal injury claims and gained valuable experience working as a bodily injury negotiator for a major insurance carrier . Ms. Trinidad currently oversees the development of PW’s negligence claims involving automobile accidents and premise liability from inception to settlement under the supervision of our attorneys. Ms. Trinidad holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Manhattan College, paralegal certification from Queens College and personal training certification from Hofstra University.
Jared Troise, (Calendar Clerk) Mr. Troise is responsible for the scheduling, coordinating and confirming the firm’s daily calendar, with our the firm’s attorneys, clients and the courts, including motions, conferences, depositions, court dates, and other office related appointments.
Andy Troy, (File Clerk) Mr. Troy is responsible for assisting in the smooth daily operation of PW's file and mail room. He additionally supports the firm’s staff with photocopying, filing, scanning, faxing and mailing. Mr. Troy holds a Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing from Hofstra University.
Christine Victor, (Paralegal) Ms. Victor is a long time staff member who is involved in many aspects of the firm’s work including legal research, drafting pleadings, Surrogate’s Court proceedings, including applying for and obtaining Letters of Administration and Guardianship, Death Compromises, and lien resolution. Ms. Victor holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education as well as a degree in Paralegal Studies from Queens College. She speaks Spanish fluently and frequently acts as an interpreter.
Gina Viti, (Paralegal) Ms. Viti has been employed by PW for more than sixteen years and is highly experienced in all aspects of plaintiff’s personal injury litigation as well as mass tort litigation. She has been involved in the creation, testing, and maintenance of SmartAdvocate, the firm’s proprietary state of the art case management system. Ms. Viti is a Notary Public.
Jessica Yee, (Legal Assistant) Ms. Yee is employed as a part-time legal assistant in PW’s Mass Torts Unit assisting our attorneys in all aspects of these claims. Prior to joining PW, Ms. Yee was employed by a law firm specializing in personal injury. Ms. Yee received her Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Legal Studies and Sociology from Quinnipiac University in 2007. Currently, Ms. Yee is a full-time law student pursuing her Juris Doctorate at Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center.
