Profile

I am an attorney with an independent law practice specializing in representing buyers and sellers of New York metropolitan area real estate. I have been practicing real estate law for over 30 years. Focusing on the five boroughs of New York City, lower Westchester and Western Nassau County, my firm’s services encompass the acquisition, disposition and financing of real property.

My Approach

Personal Service

I emphasize personal service. I answer my own phone. If I am unavailable when you call, I will return your call promptly. I bring years of experience and knowledge to benefit my clients. This includes a tremendous knowledge of the local marketplace, financing options and generally acceptable contract terms. Most importantly, I will listen carefully to your needs and options. Your decisions are paramount because it is your property. Your choices are primary. In short, you must be satisfied. Most of my clients come via referral from previous satisfied clients, real estate brokers and friends.

Confidentiality

The relationship between a lawyer and his clients is founded on trust and confidence. So sacred is this relationship that information given by the client to the lawyer or staff is a "privileged communication" which is recognized by the courts as confidential so that it cannot be disclosed without the client's consent. Even the names of clients can be confidential. Thus, I am careful not to discuss my clients and their matters in the presence of others.

Fees and Costs

Wherever possible, I charge a flat or set fee for the work to be performed. If a matter involves complex issues or will extend over a long period of time, my fees are based on hourly rates. My clients are also responsible for costs (postage, long distance, copies, faxing, recording, courier, etc.). I discuss fees in the initial conference. It is office policy to require a retainer when beginning work. The retainer is applied to the fee as they are incurred. As the retainer is used, the client will be asked to replenish it. Payment is due upon receipt of each statement. If another payment method is needed, please discuss this at the initial conference. I will answer questions about billing at any time. Please call as soon as you receive a statement if there is any question about it.

Bio

A graduate of Canisius College, I was admitted to the New York Bar in 1970. I have always focused on real estate law, beginning with Cullen & Dykman, Brooklyn, New York from 1969 until 1972. I then served as the Counsel and Secretary for the New York Bank for Savings from 1972 until its merger with Goldome, FSB in 1982. After that, I worked for The East New York Savings Bank as Vice President and General Counsel in charge of that bank’s legal work until starting in private practice in 1986.

In 1987, I founded the firm of Stockschlaeder & McDonald (now known as Stockschlaeder, McDonald & Sules, PC). The firm’s practice initially concentrated on providing legal services to a group of banking and financial service institutions.

In 2000, I retired from the firm I founded and commenced a law practice devoted to providing client’s legal services relating to the purchase, sale, financing and re-financing of real property. I handle all manner of properties… commercial, residential and mixed.

I received a Honorable Discharge from the United States Army following two years of active service. I am a member of the New York State Bar Association and the New York County Lawyers Association.