Ones to Watch Fall 2022: Jason Penighetti, Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?

On October 1, 2022, Koeppel Martone & Leistman, L.L.C. joined Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP. I was thrilled to join FDT as a partner. I am proud to be part of the largest tax certiorari practice in New York. Combined, our firms create an unparalleled legal powerhouse. I am excited to collaborate with FDT’s top-tier attorneys across multiple practice areas.

Tell us about a mentor or role model that has influenced your career choices?

My role model is my grandfather. He was a first-generation Italian American who worked multiple jobs to support his family and still managed to be around every Sunday for our family dinner. With a strong work ethic and a love of family, I chose to practice tax certiorari. This has enabled me to provide for my loved ones and help commercial taxpayers reduce their real estate tax burden.

What is one lesson that you had to learn the hard way?

People can change, but it requires desire and hard work. Listen to actions, not just words.

What 3 skills do you consider the most important to be successful in your industry? Having an analytic mind is extremely important in this field. Diligence is just as essential. When examining 100-page leases, or doing a market analysis of commercial properties, it is important to understand what is meaningful. Finally, a great tax certiorari lawyer must above all be pragmatic and flexible. Understanding that real estate valuation is subjective is key toward developing and maintaining relationships with the various municipalities.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? Without a doubt, spending time with my two sons is the best way for me to unwind after a day at the office. They love to help in the kitchen when I am cooking and trying new recipes. I also serve as the board president in my cooperative, which keeps me busy when not at work.