2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Schroder & Strom, LLP

2026 Ones to Watch Featured Leaders

Garden City, NY Schroder & Strom, LLP is a real property tax litigation firm known for its depth of experience, technical precision, and consistent success representing commercial and residential property owners across New York State. Founded in 2000 by Michael Schroder and Karen Strom, the firm has grown into a leading practice in property tax assessment litigation, combining institutional expertise with efficient, client centered operations. The addition of Partners Christopher Byrnes (2021), Joseph Packard (2022), and Anthony Forzaglia (2025) has further expanded its capabilities across residential portfolios, complex commercial valuation disputes, and multi-family community associations.

The firm is led by Michael Schroder and Karen Strom, whose combined experience has shaped its reputation. Michael Schroder has more than four decades of experience in real property tax litigation, focusing exclusively on valuation disputes and tax certiorari matters. He previously practiced in Garden City before co-founding the firm and remains active in civic and nonprofit roles, including serving as zoning board chair for the Village of Garden City.

Karen Strom is widely regarded as a leading authority in real property tax litigation and valuation law. Admitted in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey, she has built a distinguished career in real property tax litigation, valuation proceedings, and condemnation law. Her writing and lecturing on real property taxation, along with leadership roles in the American Bar Association, have established her as a nationally recognized voice. She has appeared in courts throughout New York, including securing favorable appellate decisions.

Christopher Byrnes has been instrumental in advancing the firm’s commercial and community association practices. He handles commercial and residential property tax appeals Statewide, representing institutional owners, developers, community associations, nonprofits, and private owners. He has resolved thousands of appeals, delivering significant tax savings through strategic valuation and advocacy. His professional involvement includes leadership roles in the Community Associations Institute and recognition as a Super Lawyers Rising Star.

Joseph Packard leads the firm’s high-volume residential practice while managing complex, high-value tax certiorari matters. He has resolved thousands of appeals across diverse property types, achieving substantial tax savings. He has also developed a structured, systems-driven platform that supports scale while maintaining precision. His leadership reflects a strong foundation in discipline and service, supported by civic and professional involvement.

Anthony Forzaglia adds significant municipal litigation experience. He previously served as senior counsel in the Tax & Bankruptcy Litigation Division of the New York City Law Department, handling complex tax certiorari valuation and exemption disputes. His background also includes prosecuting building code violations for New York City and in private practice focusing on landlord-tenant litigation and real estate transactions. His experience strengthens the firm’s tax certiorari and exemption practice in different municipalities.

Together, the partners bring complementary strengths in valuation law, litigation, regulatory matters, and operational leadership, forming an integrated platform that consistently delivers strong results for property owners across New York State.