This edition of Attorney Spotlight highlights another one of my revered New York City colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group—Steve Goldfeder.
A graduate of The University of New York at Albany and Brooklyn Law School, Steve has been practicing law for over 30 years and is a fantastic member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team at the firm. A native New Yorker, Steve became involved in matrimonial law right after law school and took to it well. Looking back at his career, Steve appreciates that as a matrimonial lawyer, he has had the opportunity to help people during one of the most difficult parts of their lives. Steve often finds that his clients are very grateful for the help he has provided, which can be the most rewarding feeling as an attorney.
When working with clients who are going through a very emotional divorce, Steve explains that as a lawyer, a “bedside manner” is often just as important as the skills and experience he provides. When a person approaches an attorney to handle their divorce, they do not just want a skilled lawyer. They also need to trust their legal counsel with their life and story despite how the separation impacts them. Steve is a lawyer with the ability to empathize with his clients and to also truly understand them.
Steve’s work as a lawyer leads his clients to a place that will reassure them as well as aid them. Although a divorce might be difficult, an empathetic attorney will ease the transition to their new life. Understanding emotions and concerns is the hallmark of an excellent matrimonial lawyer, and Steve can help show his clients that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Steve is well aware of the fact that a divorce is not often easy, and can certainly be a major change in a person’s life. The “new” is not always easy to handle. He reminds clients that there is more life to live and encourages them to take a moment to reflect on all the great things that life has offered, such as children, friends, or careers.
A great piece of advice that Steve will give to younger lawyers starting their careers is that psychology matters. Clients will always want their lawyer to make them feel that they understand their plights in life, and a good lawyer will make them feel like they are in good hands. Young lawyers must learn how to manage emotions and gain trust. Steve’s career is a great example to follow.
Outside of his work as a lawyer, Steve enjoys spending time with his family as well as traveling. Last summer, Steve was able to visit Italy for the first time. He absolutely enjoyed the food, the museums, and all of the history, and he looks forward to visiting again whenever he can.