Yankwitt LLP is not just a law firm in Westchester County; Westchester is deeply rooted in the fabric of our firm culture. Founded in 2009 by Russell Yankwitt, a native of the region, the firm was born from his vision to bring New York City-caliber litigation services to the heart of Westchester. Russell’s journey, from serving as a federal law clerk and Assistant U.S. Attorney in Manhattan to establishing his own firm in White Plains, reflects a deep commitment to serving the community that shaped him.
A Legacy of Legal Excellence
Over the past 16 years, Yankwitt LLP has gained increasing recognition for its exceptional litigation prowess and client commitment. It is the only Westchester-based firm recognized by Benchmark Litigation, with Russell Yankwitt named a Litigation Star and Executive Director Dina Hamerman named a Future Star. Partner Jason Swergold’s inclusion in Benchmark’s Under 40 ranking further emphasizes the firm’s deep bench of talented litigators and trial attorneys.
The firm is also the sole Westchester law firm ranked in the Chambers Commercial Litigation tables. Russell Yankwitt’s consistent presence in the Super Lawyers Top 25 Westchester Attorneys and his elevation to the Top 10 in New York highlight the firm’s esteemed reputation.
Deep Community Engagement
Yankwitt LLP’s commitment to Westchester extends far beyond the courtroom. Russell’s dedication is evident through his service on multiple boards including the Business Council of Westchester and his role on the board of the Westchester County Bar Association (WCBA). His leadership extends to the Federal Bar Council, where he serves as President-Elect and Co-Chair of the Westchester Committee, which he formed the same year he launched the firm. Several of the firm’s attorneys hold leadership positions on WCBA and Federal Bar Council committees and nonprofits that align with their and the firm’s core values.
Long-standing Partnership With Legal Services of the Hudson Valley
Yankwitt LLP has a long-standing partnership with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV). Russell served on the board for seven years and chaired the 2019 Equal Access to Justice dinner. His board position is now held by Yankwitt LLP Counsel, Waleska Suero Garcia. Associates gain valuable litigation experience and give back through pro bono representation in LSHV’s Housing Clinic, while other attorneys take on additional pro bono matters as they arise.
Yankwitt LLP also established an Immediate Impact Scholarship at the Elizabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, supporting first-year students passionate about social justice.
Recognized for Excellence in Westchester
Yankwitt LLP’s contributions have been acknowledged through numerous accolades. In 2022, the firm received the Business Council of Westchester’s Hall of Fame Award for Small Business Success. Partners Jason Swergold and Michael Reed were recognized with the Business Council of Westchester’s Rising Star award.
Russell Yankwitt was honored with the Legal Services of the Hudson Valley’s Partner in Justice award in 2024 and Pace University’s Westchester Changemaker Award, which honors individuals who have played instrumental roles in shaping Westchester into a vibrant community.
Dina Hamerman and Alicia Tallbe have also been recognized as leaders in Westchester County. Both have earned the coveted accolade of Women In Business awarded by Westchester Magazine’s 914 Inc.
The firm’s commitment to a positive workplace culture has earned consistent rankings in the Top 5 of the Best Companies to Work for in New York and Westchester, and the Best Companies to Work For: Law Firms.
A Firm Built for Westchester
Yankwitt LLP is an example of what a law firm can achieve when deeply rooted in its community. With a team comprising former federal prosecutors and clerks, the firm offers unparalleled litigation services tailored to the unique needs of Westchester. Their dedication to both legal excellence and community service positions Yankwitt LLP as not just a law firm, but a cornerstone of the Westchester community.
