James D. Leonard

James D. Leonard is the firm’s Administrative Partner, Chief Financial Officer and a member of its management committee, and supervises the day-to-day operations of the Tax Certiorari and Condemnation Practice Group. He previously served as the firm’s controller for 15 years before obtaining his law degree.

James’ vast professional experience and his Master of Laws in Taxation make him an ideal adviser to the firm’s tax clients. He is focused on providing effective, real-world solutions to the problems facing individuals and all manner of businesses.

Prior to joining the Firm, Mr. Leonard was the Controller of a national chain of upscale Italian restaurants for eight years where he managed all aspects of the restaurants’ operations. In 1992, Mr. Leonard was a party nominee for State Senate in Kings County. He served as the 1st Vice President for the 55th Assembly District of Kings County.

Education

Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law, Master of Laws in Taxation
St. John’s University School of Law
Bernard M. Baruch College of the City University of New York

Experience

Represents the Housing Trust Fund Corporation (a subsidiary public benefit corporation of NYS Housing Finance Agency) in connection with the New York Rising Buyout and Acquisition Program, which involves the conveyance of over 500 storm-damaged residential properties to private third parties, various municipalities for redevelopment or open space preservation.
Advises high net worth individuals, athletes, not-for-profits and corporations in complex federal and New York State tax matters.

Successfully negotiated a $5 million estate tax refund for a victim of the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme.

Successfully negotiated an $180,000 individual tax refund for a matrimonial client.