The event is scheduled for 1 to 2 p.m. at the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, 1280 Clover Lane. Organized by the church’s group, the session is intended for older adults, family members, and caregivers who are navigating decisions about health care, finances, and long-term support.

Hazen is a Certified Elder Law Attorney who plans to guide attendees through the key documents that can determine who will make decisions and how those decisions will be carried out if a person becomes ill, disabled, or passes away. Among the topics are powers of attorney, health care directives, wills and trusts, along with the practical questions that arise when those documents are put to use.

“In many families, the legal framework is not in place until a crisis exposes the gaps,” Hazen said in advance of the event. “Having clear, well-drafted documents can reduce conflict, help honor a person’s wishes, and make it easier for loved ones to act when time and health are uncertain.”

The May 13th program is sponsored by the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg as part of its broader effort to support congregants and community members through later-life transitions. Organizers say the series reflects a recognition that aging is not only a personal experience but also a civic and legal one, shaped by policies, courts, and planning decisions made years in advance.

The program, “Speaking Early: Easing Tough Medical Choices Through Family Dialogue,” will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Kesher Israel Congregation, 3200 N. Third St. in Harrisburg. The event is sponsored by Kesher Israel Congregation and will feature Rabbi Jason Weiner, Executive Director of the Spiritual Care Department at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, along with a panel of local practitioners who work with families facing serious illness.

The discussion is expected to range from the practical — such as health care powers of attorney and living wills — to the emotional and spiritual dimensions of end-of-life and crisis care. Organizers say the goal is to give attendees tools to begin conversations long before a crisis arrives.

“By the time families are in an intensive care unit, it is often too late to ask what a loved one would have wanted,” Hazen said. “Thoughtful planning and open dialogue can reduce conflict, provide clarity, and allow medical decisions to reflect a person’s values as closely as possible.”

Hazen, a certified elder law attorney based in Harrisburg, regularly advises individuals and families on issues such as long-term care planning, capacity, guardianship, and surrogate decision-making. She said legal documents are only one piece of a broader process that requires ongoing communication in families.

The program is open to the public, and attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions following the panel discussion. Hazen said she views the event as part of a broader effort in central Pennsylvania to normalize conversations about illness and mortality.

As Vice Chair, she will assist in organizing the committee’s activities, contributing to educational programs and helping to coordinate input on legislative and regulatory initiatives affecting the agricultural sector.

The Agricultural Law Committee examines legal issues affecting rural and agricultural communities across Pennsylvania. The committee reviews questions and problems farmers and agricultural businesses face and tracks legislative and regulatory proposals. In her role on the committee, Straub is expected to continue contributing to discussions on how state and federal law affects farm families, agribusiness operations and the broader rural economy.

Straub is looking forward to the opportunity to continue contributing to those efforts as Vice-Chair. Straub’s law practice at Hazen Law Group centers on representing clients in the agricultural sector, particularly in succession and farm transfer planning. She advises farm families and agribusiness owners on long-term ownership and management transitions, with attention to preserving both the viability of the enterprise and the interests of family members who may or may not be directly involved in farming.

The new law eliminates a scheduled reduction that would have cut the exemption roughly in half to approximately $7 million per person in 2026. For married couples who plan together, the combined exemption now stands at $30 million.

“Many families created estate plans specifically designed around the expected 2026 exemption reduction,” said Jake Slowik, estate planning attorney and owner of Slowik Estate Planning. “Now that the rules have changed, those plans may contain provisions that no longer make sense. This is a good time for families to revisit their documents and make sure everything still aligns with their goals.”

Key Provisions of the Act

Under the new law, the federal estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax exemptions increase to $15 million per taxpayer, with annual inflation adjustments beginning in 2027. The top marginal tax rate for amounts exceeding the exemption remains at 40 percent.

The step-up in basis at death remains intact under the Act. This provision allows heirs to receive inherited assets with a cost basis equal to fair market value at the date of death, which can reduce capital gains taxes when those assets are later sold.

The annual gift tax exclusion—the amount that can be transferred to any individual each year without using lifetime exemption—continues at $19,000 per recipient for 2025 and 2026 under existing inflation adjustment rules.

Implications for Georgia Residents

Georgia does not impose a state-level estate tax or inheritance tax. As a result, Georgia residents are subject only to federal estate taxes, and the higher exemption means fewer families will face federal estate tax liability.

However, estate planning attorneys note that the tax law changes may require families to review existing documents. Plans created in anticipation of the 2026 exemption reduction may contain strategies or formula clauses that no longer serve their intended purpose under the new rules.

Considerations for Existing Estate Plans

According to Slowik Estate Planning, families who implemented aggressive gifting strategies to use their exemption before the anticipated reduction should evaluate whether those transfers still align with their overall financial goals.

Estate plans containing formula clauses, particularly those directing assets to credit shelter trusts or GST trusts based on the exemption amount,may produce unintended results under the higher thresholds. In some cases, these formulas could direct more assets to trusts than intended or result in missed opportunities for basis adjustments at the surviving spouse’s death.

For individuals who previously used most of their lifetime exemption through taxable gifts, the increase to $15 million provides additional exemption capacity for future wealth transfers.

Planning Beyond Tax Considerations

Estate planning addresses matters beyond federal taxes. Proper planning can help families avoid probate costs and delays, establish incapacity protections, minimize potential disputes among beneficiaries, and ensure assets pass according to the individual’s wishes.

Families with estates below the federal threshold may still benefit from reviewing their plans to confirm that documents reflect current circumstances and goals.

The lawsuit, led by attorneys Lisa M. Esser and Megan Bonanni, alleges that Figueroa-Berrios sexually assaulted vulnerable female patients for years while working as a registered nurse at Detroit’s Sinai-Grace Hospital, a facility operated by Tenet Healthcare and its subsidiaries. The complaint seeks class action status on behalf of all Michigan women who were reportedly assaulted or harassed by Figueroa-Berrios while they were patients at the hospital.

According to the complaint, the Detroit Police Department identified numerous former female patients who may have experienced sexual assault by Figueroa-Berrios during his employment at the Detroit Medical Center (DMC) Sinai-Grace Hospital. The court filing details multiple incidents, including an August 2025 episode for which Figueroa-Berrios faces criminal charges, as well as other alleged assaults stretching several years back.

The case not only targets Figueroa-Berrios as an individual but also the hospital’s corporate owners, asserting that Tenet Healthcare, VHS of Michigan, and VHS Sinai-Grace Hospital failed to properly screen, supervise, or remove Figueroa-Berrios despite warning signs and past allegations of misconduct. The complaint alleges that these failures created conditions in which vulnerable patients were exposed to sexual abuse.

Plaintiff Jane Doe 1, the named representative for the proposed class, alleges she was sexually assaulted by Figueroa-Berrios during a visit to Sinai-Grace Hospital’s emergency department in March 2025. The complaint suggests that the assault occurred under the guise of medical care, violating accepted standards of nursing practice and pointing to broader institutional lapses in supervision and patient safety.

In 2024, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reportedly found Sinai-Grace Hospital out of compliance with patient protection standards, citing deficiencies in abuse reporting, staff training, and oversight. The complaint further references a 2024 state licensure survey that found the hospital failed to conduct fingerprint-based background checks on new hires, including nurses with direct patient contact.

The lawsuit asserts claims of negligence, negligent hiring and supervision, premises liability, and violations of Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. The complaint seeks damages on behalf of the class for physical and emotional harm and asks the court to certify the class action under Michigan law.

Attorneys for the plaintiff argue that the case underscores broader concerns about patient safety and the responsibility of healthcare institutions to protect those in their care, particularly in facilities serving vulnerable populations. As litigation progresses, additional class members may be identified through the discovery process.

The filing underscores the legal and regulatory scrutiny now facing Sinai-Grace Hospital and its corporate affiliates in the wake of the allegations. The litigation is ongoing, and the defendants have not yet responded to the complaint in court.

CASE INFORMATION
Circuit Court for Wayne County, State of Michigan
Download Case (PDF): Jane Doe 1 v. Tenet Healthcare, Inc, et al.
Case No. 25-017621-CZ

Mt. Sinai, New York – Robert F. Brogan, CELA, of Brogan Law Group, P.C., Brick, New Jersey, has been elected president of the Special Needs Alliance. A long-time member and past board officer, Brogan brings decades of experience in elder and special-needs law and a deep personal commitment to helping families navigate complex systems of care.

“My goal is to nurture what makes this organization exceptional,” Brogan said. “The Alliance’s strength comes from both its professional expertise and its sense of community. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of practice while supporting each other like family. That collegial spirit is what I hope to preserve and pass on to the next generation of members.”

Brogan’s priorities for the coming year include fostering mentorship opportunities, maintaining rigorous membership standards, and ensuring the organization’s continued vitality through engagement and shared learning.

2025–2026 Executive Officers

• President: Robert F. Brogan, CELA — Brogan Law Group, P.C., Brick, NJ
• President-Elect: Bryn Poland, Esq. — Mayo & Poland, PLLC, Baytown, TX
• Vice President: Christopher W. Smith — Chalgian & Tripp Law Offices, PLLC, Southfield, MI
• Treasurer: Elizabeth Noble Rollings Friman, Esq. — Fleming & Curti, PLC, Tucson, AZ
• Secretary: Larry H. Rocamora, Esq. — McPherson, Rocamora, Nicholson & Hinkle, PLLC, Durham, NC
• Immediate Past President: Tara Anne Pleat, CELA — Wilcenski & Pleat PLLC, Clifton Park, NY

Board of Directors

Leonard R. Anderson, Esq. — Barlow Anderson LLC, Anchorage, AK
Roxanne J. Chang, Esq. — Roxanne J. Chang, Plymouth, MI
Emily A. Donaldson, CELA — Arcare, Inc., Overland Park, KS
Robert W. Fechtman, CELA – Fechtman Law Office, Indianapolis, IN

Emma R. Hemness, CELA — Hemness Faller Elder Law, Brandon, FL
Emily B. Kile, Esq. — Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, PLLC, Scottsdale, AZ
Elena A. Lidrbauch, CELA — Hickman, Lowder, Lidrbauch & Welch Co., LPA, Sheffield Village, OH
Jacob H. Menashe, Esq. — Hickman Menashe, P.S., Lynnwood, WA
Nikki Mitchell, Esq. — Mitchell, Brown & Associates, LLC, St. Louis, MO

Rebecca C. Morgan, Esq. — Stetson University College of Law, Gulfport, FL

Ethan J. Ordog, Esq. — Begley Law Group, Moorestown, NJ
Benjamin A. Rubin, Esq. — Rubin Law, A Professional Corporation, Buffalo Grove, IL
Matthew T. Smith, Esq. — Elder Law Lawyers McClelland & Associates, PLLC, Lexington, KY
Thomas E. Smith, Esq. — Thomas Smith Law Firm, Hot Springs, AR
Scott C. Suzuki — Scott C. Suzuki, Attorney at Law, LLLC, LLC, Honolulu, HI

About the Special Needs Alliance

The Special Needs Alliance comprises more than 150 attorneys across 45 states, each invited to membership based on demonstrated excellence in disability and public benefits law. Members average more than 18 years of experience and include many Certified Elder Law Attorneys (CELA). Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, the SNA works to improve the quality of legal services and enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.

For more information, visit www.specialneedsalliance.org.

Atlanta estate planning lawyer, Jake Slowik of Slowik Estate Planning, points to his own childhood experience as a reminder of why these conversations matter. After the loss of his father at age nine, Slowik’s family endured the challenges of navigating life without the benefit of a professional estate plan. “My mother became supermom overnight, raising my brother and me without guidance from a plan. That experience left a lasting impression and motivates my work today,” said Slowik.

Slowik emphasizes that open discussions about estate plans can reduce stress and confusion for loved ones when it matters most. While these topics may feel uncomfortable, approaching them with honesty and care can prevent unnecessary misunderstandings and legal disputes down the road. He notes that many families first reach out to an attorney only after a crisis, making proactive planning a critical step.

“Our goal is to help families achieve peace of mind, not just for themselves, but for future generations,” Slowik said. “Holiday gatherings bring together multiple generations and provide a unique chance to ensure everyone understands and respects each other’s legacy wishes.”

Slowik Estate Planning recommends that families begin by confirming the existence and location of wills, powers of attorney and health care directives. Reviewing these documents periodically, especially after major life events, can help ensure they still reflect current wishes. The firm also highlights the importance of reviewing beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and insurance policies, which can sometimes override will instructions if not kept up to date.

According to Slowik Estate Planning, open communication is one of the most effective ways to minimize the risk of costly probate disputes and reduce the chances of long-term rifts between relatives. A recent survey from the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils found that more than half of Americans do not have a will or estate plan, underscoring the urgency of these conversations.

Slowik encourages families to set aside time during the holidays to discuss their estate plans, framing the conversation as an act of care and responsibility. “Estate planning can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it becomes a process that protects families and honors their values,” he said.

Raskin’s passionate remarks about democracy and civic courage captivated the audience of advocates and supporters. “Fascism will not be the end of democracy,” he declared. “Democracy will be the end of fascism — right here in America.”

In a wide-ranging discussion that was both candid and hopeful, Raskin reflected on the Constitution, the resilience of democratic institutions, and the power of citizens to defend justice. “Democracies aren’t saved by pieces of paper or traditions,” he said. “They’re saved by people — regular folks who decide not to let it happen on their watch.”

The evening also recognized two of the nation’s most distinguished advocates as the Center’s 2025 Champions of Justice:

• Seth Waxman, Partner, WilmerHale, and former Solicitor General of the United States
• Bill O’Reilly, Retired Partner, Jones Day

Both were honored for their extraordinary commitment to advancing equality and defending the rule of law through litigation and leadership.

In addition, the Center proudly announced new grants to four nonprofit organizations pursuing landmark impact litigation: JULIAN, Amica Center for Immigrant Rights, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies – California.

“We are honored to support organizations whose work reflects Barbara McDowell’s vision of using the law as a force for justice,” said Jerry Hartman, President and Chair of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center.

Since its founding in 2009, the Center (formerly the Barbara McDowell Foundation) has contributed nearly $2 million in grants, supporting 82 cases to 57 organizations. Its grantees have advanced impact litigation in areas including civil rights, immigration, gender equity, environmental justice, and voting rights.

Those who wish to support impactful litigation can donate at www.mcdowellsocialjusticecenter.org.

We extend our congratulations to Founding Partner Bernard A. Krooks, J.D., CPA, LLM (in taxation), CELA®, AEP® (Distinguished), Partner Amy C. O’Hara Esq., CELA®,  Joel Krooks, Esq., and Jessica Saio, Esq. for receiving Super Lawyers® honors in Elder Law and Estate Planning and Probate, and Partner Marion M. Walsh, Esq., and Attorney Arshi Pal, Esq., for receiving Super Lawyers® honors for in Schools and Education.

“We are proud that six members of the Littman Krooks team are named in the 2025 Super Lawyers honorees,” said Bernard A. Krooks, founding partner. “We thank Super Lawyers for this prestigious distinction once again, and for recognizing our team’s work in Elder Law, Estate Planning and Probate, and Special Education Advocacy.”

The accolades received by Littman Krooks LLP’s attorneys in the 2025 Super Lawyers list not only highlight their professional excellence but also underscore their ongoing commitment to serving the legal needs of their clients and the community with integrity and distinction. To be named a Super Lawyer, the attorney  undergoes a rigorous, multi-phase selection process that evaluates their professional achievements and peer recognition that results in a select group in the top 5% recognized for their excellence in their specific legal practice area.

Marielle F. Hazen, CELA, has been acknowledged for her profound knowledge in elder law. As the founder of Hazen Law Group, her career has been defined by her commitment to serving older adults and individuals with disabilities. Her work in elder and special needs planning, estate and trust planning, and estate administration has earned her national acclaim. Since 2001, she has held certification from the National Elder Law Foundation, underscoring her proficiency in elder law and special needs planning.

Gary J. Heim, recognized for his work in trusts and estates, has spent over four decades championing the legal needs of Pennsylvania’s agricultural community. His dedication to guiding family farms through generational transitions is well-documented, and his influence is reflected in his inclusion on City & State PA’s 2022 PA Agriculture Power 100 List. Heim’s recent accolade as one of the 2024 Best Lawyers further solidifies his standing in the field.

Jennifer Denchak Wetzel has been celebrated for her contributions to real estate law, with a particular focus on agricultural businesses. Over the past fifteen years, she has become a trusted advisor to Pennsylvania’s farm and agri-business sector, offering guidance in business succession planning and asset preservation. Her role as a Succession Coordinator for the International Farm Transition Network and the Pennsylvania Center for Dairy Excellence highlights her commitment to the agricultural community.

The Best Lawyers in America® is renowned for its rigorous peer-review process, which meticulously evaluates legal professionals to identify leaders in various practice areas. This year’s edition continues its legacy of spotlighting lawyers who exemplify excellence and integrity in their practice.

The inclusion of Hazen, Heim, and Wetzel underscores the high standards upheld by Hazen Law Group and reaffirms the firm’s reputation for providing exemplary legal services. Their recognition reflects not only individual merit but also the evolving nature of the legal profession, where dedication and skill remain paramount.

“We are delighted to have four members of the Littman Krooks team named among the 2026 Best Lawyers in America®. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication our team provides to our clients every day,” said Bernard A. Krooks, founding partner.

The accolades received by Littman Krooks LLP’s attorneys in the 2026 Best Lawyers in America® list not only highlight their professional excellence but also underscore their ongoing commitment to serving the legal needs of the community with integrity and distinction. The firm’s success is built on this foundation, ensuring effective representation and fostering strong lawyer-client relationships. As they continue to lead and innovate in their fields, the honors reinforce the firm’s standing as a trusted legal resource in New York and beyond.

Filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana, the case enforces the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law that ensures eligible students receive a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. Under the agreement, students may continue receiving special education services until they earn a regular high school diploma or turn 22, whichever comes first.

“This agreement corrects decades of exclusion and gives Montana students the same opportunity for a diploma as their peers nationwide,” said Jerry Hartman, President of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center. “It is a powerful example of how litigation can drive systemic change and remove barriers that deny students their legal rights.”

The Center’s litigation team worked closely with DRMT and national co-counsel to achieve this systemic reform. By combining deep expertise in impact litigation with strategic partnerships, the Center advances its mission to fight systemic injustices in areas such as disability rights, foster care reform, voting rights, and immigration.

Families of students who were exited from school in the 2024–25 academic year—either for aging out before 22 or receiving a modified diploma—are urged to contact their school districts now to start the re-enrollment process. Once official notices are sent this fall, eligible students will have just 30 days to re-enroll.

For help, contact Disability Rights Montana at 406-449-2344 or visit disabilityrightsmt.org.

Those who wish to support impactful litigation such as the case highlighted above, can donate at BMJC. For more information about the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center’s mission and active cases, visit www.mcdowellsocialjusticecenter.org.

CASE INFORMATION

United States District Court in Helena, Montana
A.H., A.K., and DISABILITY RIGHTS MONTANA v. SUPERINTENDENT SUSIE HEDALEN and GOVERNOR GREG GIANFORTE
Case No. 6:25-cv-00020-DLC

The Center also welcomes George Mykulak as its new Senior Litigation Director. With over 40 years of experience in complex civil litigation, Mykulak will lead the Center’s in-house litigation, including overseeing the Center’s first two initiated cases focused on disability rights and foster care reform. These efforts demonstrate the Center’s continued commitment to addressing critical social justice issues through strategic legal action.

The Center is further pleased to announce that James Rollins, partner at Nelson Mullins, and Charlyn Stanberry, Vice President of Government Relations at the National Association of Broadcasters, have joined its board of directors enhancing our experienced and committed board that continues to guide the Center.

“We are excited to bring together the strengths of the Barbara McDowell Foundation and the Barbara McDowell Public Interest Law Center,” said Jerry Hartman, President and Founder of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center. “Now more than ever we are equipped with our recent additions to continue our fight for social justice and multiply our efforts by bringing our own direct litigation combined with our making grants to other nonprofits for litigating similar cases.”

Since its inception, the Center has awarded grants totaling nearly $2 million to 55 organizations based in 22 different states all in support of their pursuing high-impact social justice litigation. The Center is named for Barabara McDowell, a well-regarded appellate litigator and social justice advocate, who had worked at the United States Solicitor General’s Office arguing Supreme Court cases and founded the Appellate Advocacy Project at the Legal Aid Society of Washington, D.C.  She died at age 56 from brain cancer. The Center was founded by her husband, Jerry Hartman, in her honor.

With strong leadership, expanded capacity, and a deepened commitment to litigation and grantmaking, the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center enters this next chapter poised to drive meaningful, lasting change in the fight against systemic injustice.

Those who wish to support the Center’s fight for social justice, can donate at BMJC. For more information about the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center’s mission and active cases, visit www.mcdowellsocialjusticecenter.org.

The Agricultural Law Committee examines legal issues affecting the state’s rural and agricultural interests and also monitors and provides recommendations on related legislation and regulations that directly affect the agricultural industry.

Straub’s legal focus centers on farm succession planning and representing agricultural businesses. With the agricultural industry facing shifting regulations, economic volatility, and generational transitions in ownership, Sarah welcomes the opportunity to work with her fellow committee members to monitor policy changes and ensure the interests of Pennsylvania’s agricultural community are properly represented and protected.

In addition to her legal practice, Straub regularly speaks on agricultural law topics and provides guidance to family-run farms navigating complex legal issues. Her hands-on experience with Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry gives her valuable insight and perspective into the practical impact of state policies. She has earned recognition for her client-focused approach and the ability to craft customized, strategic solutions for farm families and agribusinesses.

This year’s agenda includes crowd favorites like The Essex County Sheriff’s Department with their K-9 Police Dogs, exotic and unusual animals from Curious Creatures, and The MSPCA’s barnyard birds. Also on the schedule, Sweet Paws Rescue with dogs for adoption, Nibi the beaver, Senator Bruce Tarr, and an appearance from NBC 10 Boston’s Weather Warrior or Storm Ranger. There will also be vendor tables, a live DJ, face painting, and a visit from The Easter Bunny.

“It’s always fun and rewarding to host another Animal Rights Day,” said MSLAW Dean Michael L. Coyne. “After 17 years, it just keeps getting better and it’s a great tradition for our community.”

As part of the Animal Right’s Day celebration, MSLAW will award its 2025 Humane-itarian Award to Brian Rambarran, M.D., from Rambarran Rescues, Inc. Every month, Dr. Rambarran takes to the skies, using his passion for flying to rescue dogs in high-kill shelters and deliver them to rescue organizations who will give the vulnerable animals a chance at a new life.

“His story, and his actions are nothing short of heroic,” says MSLAW Assistant Dean Diane Sullivan. “It will be an honor to thank him in person for the work that he does.”

The Massachusetts School of Law is located at 500 Federal Street, Andover, MA.

Learn more at https://shadowfundne.org/animal-rights-day-2025/.

“Being elected as a Fellow of ACTEC is an incredible honor. ACTEC is a prestigious organization dedicated to excellence in trust and estate law, and I am humbled to join such a distinguished group of professionals. I look forward to contributing to the organization’s mission and continuing to serve clients and the legal community with the highest standards of integrity,” stated Amy C. O’Hara.

Littman Krooks LLP is honored to have two ACTEC Fellows, as Amy joins founding partner Bernard A. Krooks, a past chair of ACTEC’s Elder Law Committee.

Amy has extensive experience in special needs planning, elder law, fiduciary representation, guardianship, and trusts and estates. Renowned for her thought leadership, Amy is a sought-after speaker who frequently lectures for both professional and advocacy organizations on the critical importance of tailored legal planning for individuals with disabilities and aging adults, as well as for their families. She is known for her ability to demystify complex topics in special needs and elder law, offering valuable insights on current trends, regulations, and best practices.

She is recognized as a Certified Elder Law Attorney® (CELA) by the National Elder Law Foundation (NELF), the only organization approved by the American Bar Association to offer certification in the practice area of elder law. Littman Krooks is the only law firm in New York State with three CELA® accredited attorneys.

Amy’s professional affiliations reflect her deep commitment to the field. She is an active member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), a Past-President of the Special Needs Alliance —a national nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for families managing special needs—and currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for Westchester Disabled on the Move, Inc., a nonprofit focused on improving quality of life and securing rights for people with disabilities.

Additionally, Amy is a dedicated member of the American Bar Association, where she serves as Co-Chair of the Special Needs Planning Committee within the Real Property, Trust & Estate Law Section. Her involvement extends to the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) as Vice Chair of the Special Needs Planning Committee for the Elder Law and Special Needs Section, and she is also a member of the NYSBA Trusts and Estates Section. Amy maintains active membership in the Westchester County Bar Association and the Estate Planning Council of Westchester County.

Amy co-authors the Special Needs Trusts Handbook, a comprehensive treatise published by Wolters Kluwer, which serves as a critical guide for legal practitioners nationwide.

To learn more about Amy C. O’Hara, click here.

Filed by Jane Does 1 through 11, the lawsuit alleges that from approximately 2015 to 2023, Weiss unlawfully accessed, downloaded, and used private photographs, videos, and data belonging to student-athletes through University and third-party systems. The complaint details allegations that Weiss exploited weak cybersecurity practices at the University and Keffer Development Services, which maintained databases with sensitive student-athlete information.

According to the lawsuit, Weiss allegedly used his position and University-issued credentials to gain unauthorized access to confidential data, including medical records, passwords, and personal cloud accounts. The Department of Justice has already begun notifying affected individuals, including two of the named plaintiffs, according to the lawsuit.

“This was not a random data breach—it was targeted, deliberate, and preventable,” said attorney Lisa Esser of Sommers Schwartz, P.C., one of the firms representing the plaintiffs. “These student-athletes placed their trust in the University and its partners to safeguard their most private information. That trust was betrayed on multiple levels.”

The complaint accuses the University and its Regents of failing to supervise Weiss, ignoring red flags, and failing to implement adequate cybersecurity measures. Keffer Development Services is also alleged to have failed to secure athlete data it collected on behalf of over 100 colleges and universities nationwide.

Among the legal claims are violations of the Stored Communications Act, the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, Title IX, and constitutional violations under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments. Plaintiffs are seeking damages exceeding $50 million and class certification on behalf of thousands of affected student-athletes.

“Matthew Weiss acted with shocking disregard for the privacy and dignity of these women,” said Megan Bonanni of Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers, co-counsel on the case. “But equally disturbing is the institutional failure that enabled this to happen and left students vulnerable for years.”

This lawsuit is the latest in a series of privacy-related actions filed against the University of Michigan, raising broader concerns about the school’s internal data practices and compliance with federal protections for students.

The plaintiffs are represented by Sommers Schwartz, P.C. and Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers, P.C., and encourage others who believe they were affected to come forward by reaching out to Sommers Schwartz for a free, confidential, consultation by visiting https://www.sommerspc.com/class-action-commercial-litigation/investigations-cases/matt-weiss-university-student-athlete-hack/.

CASE INFORMATION
JANE DOE 1-11 vs. THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN; the UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN; KEFFER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, LLC, and MATTHEW WEISS
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan
Case: No. 2:25-cv-10946-JJCG-APP

Attorney Michelle D. Beneski, who has co-owned the firm alongside her brother, Attorney Daniel M. Surprenant, since 2010, has been thoughtfully considering the future as she plans for retirement in the coming years. While stepping into a new phase of her career, Michelle will remain actively involved in the firm over the next three to four years to ensure a seamless transition for clients and staff.

“I’ve dedicated my career to building a firm that excels in estate planning and elder law, driven by a commitment to safeguarding family assets and providing expert guidance,” says Michelle. “My passion extends beyond client advocacy to mentoring a team that will carry this legacy forward, ensuring our clients receive exceptional care for years to come.”

Attorney Erin L. Nunes has been a valued member of the firm since 2004, contributing her skills across every role within the organization before becoming a leading attorney. Her hands-on experience has given her a deep understanding of client needs and firm operations. She also plays a pivotal role in mentoring junior attorneys and legal staff and is known for her passion for community education and supporting professionals who serve the same population.

“I am honored to step into this new role and continue the firm’s legacy of excellence,” says Erin. “Michelle has been an incredible mentor, and I am committed to upholding the firm’s values and providing our clients with the highest level of service.”

Attorney Daniel M. Surprenant, who will remain with the firm for at least the next decade, expresses his enthusiasm for this new chapter. “Together, Michelle, Erin, and I will continue to develop the knowledge, skills, and experience of our attorneys and staff. I look forward to partnering with Erin to bring the firm into the future while maintaining the strong foundation we’ve built.”

With this leadership transition comes a refreshed brand identity. The firm’s new name, Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, reflects its long-standing commitment to client service and continuity for generations to come. 

The firm remains dedicated to its mission of protecting families, preserving legacies, and providing expert estate planning and elder law services with the same trusted team. Clients can feel confident that the firm is well-positioned to continue offering compassionate guidance and legal expertise for years to come.

A recent investigation by New York Focus revealed that the state’s Office of School Personnel Review and Accountability (OSPRA) is grappling with a backlog of over 1,360 open complaints as of December 2024. Factors contributing to these delays include understaffing, complex investigations, scheduling challenges, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The prolonged timelines in addressing teacher misconduct allegations are deeply concerning,” said Peter E. Brill. “Such delays not only hinder justice but also compromise the safety and well-being of students and the professional integrity of educators.”

Peter Brill brings over 25 years of legal experience to this issue. As one of only two attorneys in New York State certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in Criminal Law, he has extensive trial experience in state and federal courts, as well as in arbitration and administrative proceedings. His practice focuses on criminal defense and representing professionals, including educators, facing disciplinary charges.

The New York Focus investigation highlighted the case of Samantha Farber, who waited over five years for the state to act on her complaint against a former high school teacher. Such extended periods of uncertainty can be detrimental to all parties involved.

“Timely resolution of misconduct cases is essential to maintain trust in our educational institutions,” Brill emphasized. “We must ensure that both students and educators are afforded due process without undue delay.”

Brill Legal Group, P.C. is committed to advocating for reforms that streamline the investigation process within the Education Department. By addressing the root causes of these delays, the firm aims to promote a more efficient and just system for handling teacher misconduct allegations.

The Hudson Valley Magazine Top Lawyer’s honorees are selected from a peer reviewed process and are voted upon by colleagues for outstanding contributions in the legal community throughout the Hudson Valley. This honor recognizes the top lawyers in thirty-five different practice areas in the region. Hudson Valley Magazine covers lifestyle, arts, people, places, and activities throughout te Hudson Valley. Their mission is to produce a high-quality magazine that informs, entertains, and investigates life in the vibrant community in which they serve. It is a tremendous honor to be named to Hudson Valley Magazine’s Top Lawyers.

Littman Krooks provides sophisticated legal advice, and the high level of expertise ordinarily associated with large law firms along with the personal attention and responsiveness of smaller firms. These ingredients, which are the cornerstone of effective representation and are necessary to a successful lawyer/client relationship, have become the foundation of the firm’s success.