My Why
What powers my practice
I first became interested in law in high school while participating in an advocacy project. I was fascinated by the idea that careful analysis and a compelling argument could influence how others think and make decisions. That intellectual challenge continues to inspire me today.
Over the years, I have discovered that one of the greatest rewards of practicing law is the opportunity to keep learning. Every case brings something new—whether it is an unfamiliar industry, a scientific or technological question, or the chance to meet people from all walks of life. I find great satisfaction in collaborating with clients, understanding what matters most to them, and helping them navigate the complexities of litigation. The combination of intellectual discovery, constant learning, and working with interesting people has kept my career engaging and rewarding.
Overview
Yelena has represented clients across a broad range of industries in complex commercial disputes, from local entrepreneurs to global companies. She brings persuasive advocacy and a practical, business-minded approach to litigation, developing strategies that advance her clients’ objectives while managing risk and controlling costs.
With extensive experience in state and federal courts, Yelena guides clients through all stages of litigation, from early case assessment through appeals. Her practice also encompasses arbitration, mediation, and negotiation. In addition to resolving disputes, she counsels clients on contractual matters, helping them structure agreements and mitigate risk.
Before joining the firm, Yelena spent more than 15 years at a New York-based litigation firm, most recently serving as a partner. Earlier in her career, she was a visiting scholar with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) in Vienna, Austria, focusing on international arbitration and the enforcement of foreign arbitral awards. She also served as a judicial intern to the Honorable Laura Taylor Swain of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Credentials
- Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2008, magna cum laude; Editorial Board, Touro International Law Review; Second Place Worldwide, Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot; Honorable Mention for Individual Oral Advocacy.
- Kherson State University, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), World Literature, 2002, summa cum laude
- New York
- New Jersey
- U.S. Court of Appeals, Second Circuit
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York
- U.S. District Court, Northern District of New York
- U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
- U.S. District Court, Western District of New York
- U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey
