2021 Ones to Watch: Andrew Curto, Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP

Name: Andrew Curto

Title: Partner

Company Name: Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP

Real estate associations or organizations that you are currently a member of: Long Island Board of Realtors, Theodore Roosevelt American Inn of Court, Nassau County Bar Association, Suffolk County Bar Association

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the cases I have handled where I have resolved business disputes between family members. I have identified these cases as “Family Business Matrimonials,” which are disputes between family members concerning real estate, closely-held family businesses and other assets. These matters tear families apart and are driven by emotion, greed and lack of proper planning. I have extensive experience in commencing these types of lawsuits and resolving these types of disputes. I am also keenly aware that the law is only one factor to consider in these disputes—you also have to assess the psychology of the parties involved and address concerns on a human emotional level. My skill set encompasses both the aggressive litigator and the creative negotiator who can assess a situation and bring parties together to mediate a dispute.

How do you keep your team motivated despite conflicts and obstacles?
As chair of my firm’s litigation department, I motivate my team to listen carefully to clients and completely understand their objectives and strategically use all aspects of our firm collaboratively to solve their problems. There is no greater satisfaction than drawing on the knowledge of a team of professionals to solve a complicated issue. I have found that in its simplest terms, life is about pushing harder when you meet resistance, never to give up and to think creatively in every matter. The answer is always no if you don’t ask the question.

Who was/is your mentor and how did s/he influence/help you in your career?
I would attribute much of my attitude towards problem solving to my father, who is also an attorney, and to other senior litigation attorneys with whom I was co-counsel over the past 30 years. Their collective style and wisdom certainly helped mold the lawyer I am today. My belief is that you will have greater success if you approach a problem with the attitude that you are going to solve it, instead of looking for every reason why you may fail. This is my attitude with every problem that comes across my desk and with every strategy meeting with my litigation team here at the firm.