John W. Dreste

I joined The Barnes Firm because I wanted to be part of a team that fights for people who are injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. I pride myself on putting forth the hard work and dedication necessary to be the best. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the top legal individuals in New York State including then New York State Senator, Hillary Clinton, and New York State Appellate Division Justice, Samuel Green. I graduated from the University at Buffalo School o...

Anita Pelletier is Counsel in Nixon Peabody's nonprofit practice group. She advises nonprofit organizations in matters relating to legal requirements and best practices in connection with governance and operational matters. I focus my practice on three main areas, building on over 10 years of experience assisting nonprofit clients to operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. Nonprofit Corporate Governance and Board Disputes I’ve represented organizations ranging from the very ...

Chip focuses his practice on real estate financing, corporate financing, commercial real estate sales and acquisitions, leasing, zoning, land use, municipal law and public authorities law. He represents numerous lenders, developers and corporations in such areas as commercial lending, borrowing, real estate development and leasing.

Based in Pittsford, New York, Neal Slifkin at Harris Beach Murtha focuses on copyright law, litigation involving intellectual property, patent law, and trademark law. With extensive experience across United States District Courts including Western, Northern, Southern, and Eastern Districts of New York, Neal is well-versed in handling complex intellectual property issues, such as patent, trademark, copyright, and trade dress disputes. Neal's practice involves supporting clients across diverse ...

Stephanie Caffera provides strategic legal advice and counsel exclusively to management in a wide variety of industry sectors. She helps clients navigate the ever-changing tangle of employment-related laws and regulations. When disputes occur, Stephanie represents clients before federal courts and state and federal administrative agencies. What do you focus on? My clients include hospitals and health care providers, food and beverage, manufacturing, educational institutions, technology and li...

Matthew Carrigg is an associate in Nixon Peabody’s Real Estate group. Matthew focuses his practice on various commercial and private real estate transactions. He represents borrowers and lenders, commercial real estate developers and private companies. What do you focus on? I focus my practice on all aspects of commercial real estate matters. I have assisted lenders, borrowers and business clients in connection with commercial real estate transactions. I have experience drafting buy-sel...

Rachel Baranello works with Industrial Development Agencies and Local Development Corporations, providing guidance on financial incentive programs that drive economic growth in New York. Her practice areas encompass Economic Development Law and Public Finance Law. Rachel collaborates on straight-lease transactions and bond financings, both tax-exempt and taxable, for various projects including those by 501(c)(3) organizations, manufacturing companies, and multifamily housing developments. Add...

John Wells is a litigator and trial attorney at Lacy Katzen LLP in Rochester, New York, where he represents clients in a wide range of civil litigation matters. His practice includes Commercial Litigation, Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs, Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants, and Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs. John regularly handles matters involving medical malpractice, personal injury, automobile accidents , nursing home negligence , and commercial, busin...

Todd Bullard is a Pittsford, New York-based attorney at Harris Beach Murtha, focusing on municipal law. He represents local entities such as counties, cities, and school districts in litigation defense and operational matters. His expertise extends to advising on commercial contracts and public and private project procurements.

Steven Nonkes is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Intellectual Property. Steven, who practices law in Pittsford, New York, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Steven is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.