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Mediator Resume

Erin Colgan, Esq.

Erin Colgan, Esq.

Professional Summary

A NY-licensed attorney (23 years) highly focused on family law, divorce litigation, and mediation. Dedicated to problem-solving, child-focused, and equitable resolutions inspired by comprehensive mediation training (2004). Possesses extensive knowledge of NY law and specialized skills in division of retirement assets (Founding Partner, NorthStar Pension and QDRO). Experienced litigator who prioritizes mediation/collaboration to preserve financial resources and family relationships. Active volunteer mediator (Part 146 Panel) and CLE presenter. Committed to offering creative, holistic support through outside collaborative, professional relationships with accountants and therapists.

Current Employer-Title

Angiuli & Gentile, LLP - Partner

Profession

Attorney; Mediator

Work History

Partner, Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, 2024-Present; Sole Practitioner, Erin K. Colgan, P.C., 2010-Present; Sole Practitioner, The Law Offices of Erin K. Colgan, 2007-2010; Co-owner, Managing Partner, Northstar QDRO, L.L.C., 2016-Present; Associate Attorney, William J. Leininger, P.C., 2004–2007; Assistant District Attorney, Office of the District Attorney Staten Island, 2001–2004.

Experience

Current Partner specializing in matrimonial and family law matters in Staten Island, NY. with a unique emphasis on mediation. Mediated hundreds of divorces involving complex issues that include businesses, passive income, income imputation, complicated retirement analysis and child related issues. Extensive experience in litigation, including trial experience in family and matrimonial matters and has handled complex and high conflict matters for over 20 years. Handling of diverse family and matrimonial issues, including child custody, child protective issues, and asset distribution. Extensive litigation experience, including drafting and filing of all necessary legal documents, including pleadings, petitions, motions, memorandum of law, trial briefs, objections, and appeals. Conducted extensive discovery exchanges and depositions on financial matters in divorce litigation. Served on various judicial panels, including the attorneys for the children panel (Appellate Division Second Department, Part 36 panel) , and the Richmond County Family Court 18b Panel. Co-founded and served as Managing Partner of NORTHSTAR QDRO, L.L.C. to prepare Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) for the division of retirement assets. Prior experience as an Assistant District Attorney with emphasis on domestic violence and special victims cases, including hearing and trial experience in criminal court. Managed staff and implemented office systems for firm growth and development.

Mediator Experience

Certified Divorce Mediator since 2005. Active mediation practice since 2005 with emphasis on avoiding the cost and emotional toll of litigation. Successfully mediated complex divorce matters without court involvement. Served as a volunteer mediator with the Part 146 panel in Richmond County (not explicitly cited in the resume, but stated in the prompt, which is consistent with active involvement in the local legal community). Advocacy experience in mediation related to child custody, child support, and asset distribution matters.

Representative Issues Handled as a Mediator

Equitable Distribution of Marital Assets, including complex business valuation and real estate assets. Division of Retirement Accounts via Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) and other mechanisms. Child Custody and Visitation schedules. Complicated parenting issues, including relocation, substance abuse issues, customized and creative approaches to parenting plans Child Support and Spousal Support (Maintenance). High-conflict post-judgment modification and enforcement issues. Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements

Mediator Style & Process Preferences

The general approach to mediation is to foster a safe, confidential environment focused on education and conflict management as we navigate together the issues involving a couple's divorce. Mediation is viewed as a creative, step-by-step problem-solving process that strives to preserve family resources and relationships. Sessions typically begin with a brief joint session to set the stage, followed by caucuses to facilitate creative solutions. The neutral views are shared with the respective parties only when requested or when it appears it will assist with resolution. Expectations include parties arriving with full authority to settle and a commitment to working toward an equitable and child-focused outcome.

Technology Proficiency

Proficiency in standard online platforms used for virtual mediation sessions and conferences, including Zoom. Experienced in using case management, time and billing software, and accounting/financial software to manage firm operations.

Education

Rutgers University School of Law (JD - 2001); State University of New York (BS, Economics and Management Science, cum laude - 1998). Center for Mediation and Training Part 146 (40 hour course - 2021); Center for Divorce Mediation and Training (Certified Divorce Mediator Training - 2005).

Professional Licenses

Admitted to the Bar: New York (2003).

Professional Associations

Richmond County Bar Association, Member and Committee Co-Chair (Matrimonial Committee); Staten Island Women’s Bar Association, Member and former Committee Chair; Family and Divorce Mediation Council, Member.

Compensation

Hourly Rate: $725.00 Daily Rate: Not provided Study Rate: $725.00/hr Cancellation: $725.00/hr Cancellation Period: 1 Days Comment: If cancelled less than 24 hours prior to scheduled meeting, a fee of $725 (one hour) will be charged.

Languages

English

Citizenship

United States of America

Locale

Staten Island, New York