Business Details
40 Years
experience
Trusted Legal Representation in Edgartown, MA
Since 1986, our firm has served the Martha's Vineyard community with dedication to legal excellence and community stewardship. As the island's largest law firm, we specialize in Municipal Law, Real Estate, Estate Planning, Corporate Law, and Civil Litigation, representing individuals, businesses, and municipalities. Recognized by Chambers and Partners for our adept representation of high-profile clients, we combine decades of local expertise with a commitment to personalized service.Our attorneys have argued landmark cases in state and federal courts, shaping land use and zoning precedents vital to the island's development. We maintain strong partnerships with local institutions and prioritize cost-effective solutions while upholding the founding principles of public service and integrity established by our late partner Ronald H. Rappaport.
Services
Municipal Law
Real Estate Law
Estate and Trust Law
Corporate Law
Civil Litigation
Land Use Zoning
Probate Matters
Business Transactions
Affordable Housing Law
Title Examination
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- Our attorneys have over 60 years of combined experience in municipal law representation
- Founding partner and Super Lawyer Ronald H. Rappaport established key land use precedents
- Deep institutional knowledge of Martha's Vineyard's unique legal and community needs
- Recognized by Chambers and Partners as the island's premier law firm
- Proven track record in landmark cases before Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
Associations and certifications
- Chambers and Partners
Services
Municipal Law
Our municipal law practice provides comprehensive legal counsel to five Martha's Vineyard towns and the Martha's Vineyard Land Bank. We handle zoning regulations, land use policies, municipal finance, and governance issues while maintaining political acumen and regulatory expertise. Our attorneys have established landmark precedents in local governance through decades of dedicated service.
Real Estate Law
We specialize in residential and commercial real estate transactions across Martha's Vineyard. Our services include title examination, easement agreements, lease negotiations, and financing arrangements. With extensive experience in island-specific property regulations, we ensure smooth transactions for buyers, sellers, and lenders while addressing unique local considerations.
Estate and Trust Law
Our estate planning practice addresses complex asset protection and succession strategies for island property owners. We create customized wills, trusts, and LLC structures while managing probate proceedings and trust administration. Our attorneys help clients navigate Massachusetts estate tax implications and implement enforceable distribution plans.
Civil Litigation
With over 75 years of combined trial experience, our civil litigation team handles property disputes, contract matters, and business conflicts. We represent clients in Massachusetts state and federal courts, including appellate advocacy before the Supreme Judicial Court. Our approach balances aggressive representation with practical resolution strategies.
Corporate Law
We support business clients through entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. Our services include drafting commercial agreements, managing regulatory compliance, and advising on tax planning. We work closely with real estate and litigation teams to provide integrated solutions for local and regional businesses.
People
Karen D. Burke
Attorney
Experienced attorney providing legal counsel in real estate transactions and corporate matters with a focus on Martha's Vineyard clients.
Michael A. Goldsmith
Director
Recognized Super Lawyer in municipal law with extensive experience representing Martha's Vineyard towns in land use and governance issues.
S. Fain Hackney
Attorney
Skilled legal practitioner handling real estate transactions and corporate law matters for island businesses and residents.
Jennifer S. Rako
Attorney
Estate planning specialist assisting clients with trust administration and probate matters across Martha's Vineyard.
Ronald H. Rappaport
Founding Partner
Renowned municipal law expert and Super Lawyer who established key land use precedents through landmark cases in Massachusetts courts.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialize in?
We focus on Municipal Law, Real Estate Transactions, Estate and Trust Planning, Corporate Law, and Civil Litigation specific to Martha's Vineyard.
Do you represent out-of-state clients?
Yes, we assist non-residents with Martha's Vineyard property transactions and estate planning requirements.
What makes your firm unique?
Our deep institutional knowledge of Martha's Vineyard legal issues combined with decades of courtroom experience in state and federal courts.
Do you handle appellate cases?
Yes, our attorneys regularly represent clients before the Massachusetts Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court.
Are you available for urgent matters?
While we don't offer 24/7 emergency services, we prioritize timely responses for urgent legal concerns.
