Howard Masia, Esq.

 

I was admitted to the Bar in NJ and NY in 1989. I have over 30 years of experience as an attorney and mediator.

 

Education

I attended college at Brooklyn College and graduated cum laude with a BS in accounting.

I attended law school at Hofstra University School of Law and graduated at the top of my class.

 

Experience

Upon graduation, I worked at a large NYC firm, but when I got married shortly thereafter, I decided to live and work in NJ. I then worked for smaller firms where I learned more, gaining a wide range of experience in real estate, bankruptcy, landlord-tenant, commercial litigation, personal injury, Wills/Estates, etc. I started practicing family law when I started my own firm approximately 30 years ago. It became my specialty and now makes up almost 100% of my practice. I am proud that most of my clients are referred by other clients or attorneys.

 

Having legal experience outside of family law has been extremely  helpful in identifying potential issues/problems, and in drafting Agreements. I know what can impact marketable title to a home and what is required to transfer marketable title to a  property. Most attorneys do not know the difference between a Note and Mortgage or when a Deed is required. I notice when there is a possibility of a potential bankruptcy that could impact my client or potentially negate the settlement, and will try to minimize the risks to my client.  

 

Mediation training-  

 

I am a Mediator and attended different trainings throughout my career.

 

I was first introduced to mediation in law school when ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) was relatively new. I was trained at the Queens Mediation Center, served as a Certified Mediator there, and resolved different types of disputes/matters.

 

I next received civil mediation training and then mediation training specific to family law in NJ. I have been requested and served as a mediator, as an Early Settlement Panelist, and as a mediator for Intensive Settlement Conferences (last ditch effort to settle before trial), at the Monmouth County Courthouse. I also mediate cases as part of my private law practice.