Name of Respondent: Carolyn B. George, Esq.

Years in Business/Role: 2 years – I am of Counsel to the firm.

Tell us a little bit about your business, how your practice was started?

I was admitted to the NY bar in 1979 and initially joined a firm that concentrated on defending individuals and companies who were sued in civil cases. I also began to represent people injured in automobile accidents and slip and fall incidents. I have continued that personal injury practice, whether the case is large or small, for over 40 years. It is fulfilling to secure compensation for injured people and bring them the justice they deserve.

Cooper, Erving, & Savage, LLP has a long-standing history in the Albany Area, tell us a little about how your firm was started and the over 200 years in business.

Historically, the firm focused on banking and a trust and estates practice. Several Supreme Court Judges and local court judges, and state assemblymen, have come from our firm. Gradually, litigating attorneys joined the firm and enjoyed great success securing verdicts and court settlements. Today, our Tort Group of 6 lawyers is the largest specialty practice within the firm.

Tell us about your Tort Group and how it has impacted your business?

The 6 attorneys in our Tort Group frequently collaborate on strategy and business development. Two of us have strong backgrounds working the defense side as well as the plaintiff side. We often have 2 attorneys working on the same case which facilitates a cohesive strategy and ensures that our approach is thorough. Being able to use one another as a sounding board or partnership has helped me assess whether I should take on a particular matter and also determine what is the best course for resolution.  We really draw on the rich experiences of the 6 of us.

What sets apart your practice apart from other law firms in the area?

Most firms focus on only a single practice area. But we reap the benefits of being able to utilize the talented attorneys here who, for example, are knowledgeable in estates and/or employment law. Within out firm, we can tap the expertise of attorneys whose specialties are complimentary to ours but entail a different skill set or proficiency.

What is your favorite part about what you do?

Whenever possible, we meet with our clients to present them with the settlement check when the case is concluded. It truly caps off the relationship, whether the case is large or small. Showing that you have the client’s best interests at heart is critical right to the end. I have found this approach also encourages referrals.

Fun Fact about yourself or practice?

Over the years, I have argued appeals in all 4 Appellate Divisions and the Court of Appeals. I have appeared in local courts as well as New York State Supreme Court, which is where most civil cases are heard. I’ve tried to learn from every experience. A few years ago I was honored as a Trailblazer by the Albany Law School Oral History Project.

Learn More
Cooper Erving & Savage LLP
39 North Pearl Street
4th Floor Albany, NY 12207
Phone: 518-449-3900
Carolyn George Esq. | cgeorge@coopererving.com
www.coopererving.com