2021 Ones to Watch: John Stellakis, Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP

Name: John Charles Stellakis

Title: Associate, Real Estate and Land Use and Zoning Practice Groups

Company Name: Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP

Real estate associations or organizations that you are currently a member of: Federal Bar Association, Eastern District of New York Chapter.

How do you contribute to your community or your profession?
Since about 2014, I have participated as an “Attorney of the Day” for Nassau Suffolk Law Services’ Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) in the Nassau County District Court Landlord-Tenant Part. VLP’s representation of indigent tenants is one of its many pro bono initiatives. Eviction proceedings truly hit home, and the courthouse can be intimidating. As an “Attorney of the Day,” I represent VLP’s clients on their day in court. This includes reviewing case files, pleadings and documents; meeting and consulting with VLP’s clients to explain the process and resolutory options; conferencing with counsel to negotiate an effective result without law enforcement intervention; and, appearing before the court. This program can benefit both tenants and landlords by expeditiously arriving at solutions acceptable to all parties.