516-227-0700

Ilene S.
Cooper

Estate Litigation

Partner

Uniondale

T: 516-227-0736

About Ilene

Ilene S. Cooper practices litigation and estate planning in Surrogate’s Courts throughout the Metropolitan area. In addition to her work at Farrell Fritz, Ilene is an adjunct professor of law at Touro Law School. Ilene previously served as a visiting professor at Hofstra Law School, where she taught trusts and estates.

Ilene writes a column, “Trusts and Estates Update,” for the New York Law Journal, is the author of “Case Notes,” a quarterly column published in the New York State Bar Association’s Trusts and Estates Law Section Newsletter and is a columnist for the Suffolk County Bar Association’s publication, the Suffolk Lawyer. She also writes for Trusts and Estates magazine. In 2002, she published a textbook entitled, “Wills, Trusts and Estates—Essential Tools for the New York Paralegal,” which serves as a practice tool and guide for paralegals. Further, Ilene is the editor of the volume on litigation in New York Surrogate’s Courts, published by Warren’s Heaton, and has written several articles for the The New York Bar Journal.

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Experience

  • Ten and a half years as Principal Court Attorney/Referee for the Surrogate of Suffolk County, Honorable Ernest L. Signorelli
  • Drafted a proposal to amend Rule 4503(b) of the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules, which was signed into law, calling for the exception to the attorney-client privilege that applies in proceedings concerning the validity or construction of wills to be extended to revocable trust contests.
  • Responsible for an amendment to EPTL5-3.2, in order to increase the inheritance rights of non-marital children.
  • Together with members of the New York State Bar Association’s Trusts and Estates Law Section, drafted an amendment to SCPA 2307-a, dealing with attorney-fiduciaries.
  • Instrumental in initiating and spearheading an amendment to Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA) 2211, which provides for discovery prior to the filing of objections in accounting proceedings.
  • In 2006, drafted legislation, signed into law, which provides that abusive parents, whose rights have been terminated, are disqualified from receiving an inheritance from the abused child’s estate.
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Credentials

Education

  • Cornell University
  • Hofstra University School of Law

Bar Admissions

  • New York

Affiliations & Appointments

  • New York State Bar Association, Past Chair and Member of Executive Committee, Trusts and Estates Law Section
  • New York State Bar Association, Past Member, Committee on Legal Education & Admission to the Bar and Committee on Professional Discipline
  • New York State Bar Association House of Delegates, Past SCBA Representative
  • New York State Bar Association, Past Chair, Trust and Estate Administration Section
  • New York Bar Foundation, Board Member and Fellow
  • New York Bar Foundation, Member, Grant Committee
  • American College of Trusts and Estates Council (ACTEC), Past Member, Special Committee on Fiduciary Appointments
  • American College of Trusts and Estates Council (ACTEC), Fellow
  • American College of Trusts and Estates Council (ACTEC), Member, Legal Education Committee
  • New York City Bar Association, Past Member, Surrogate's Court Committee
  • Suffolk Academy of Law Advisory Council
  • Suffolk County Estate Planning Council
  • Suffolk County Bar Association, Past Member
  • Suffolk County Child Care Council, Board Member
  • Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence Honorary Board, Past Member
  • Suffolk County Women's Bar Association, Past Member
  • Suffolk County Youth Board Coordination Council, Past Member
  • Suffolk County Bar Association, Selected Delegate from the 10th Judicial District to the House of Delegates
  • Former Supreme Court of the State of New York, Grievance Committee Member, 10th Judicial District
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Articles & Advisories

The Closing Months of the Year

As 2023 came to an end, multiple decisions of interest were rendered by the Appellate and Surrogate’s Courts throughout the…

February 06, 2024

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Year-End Review: Fourth-Quarter Decisions Affecting the Trusts and Estates Field

As 2023 draws to a close, Ilene Cooper considers some of the decisions in the fourth quarter affecting the field…

December 05, 2023

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Mid-Year Review: Interesting Cases That Rounded Out Summer Season

As we enter the final months of 2023, Ilene Sherwyn Cooper considers some of the interesting decisions affecting trusts and…

October 03, 2023

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Mid-Year Developments: Stipulations Of Settlements, Situs, Digital Assets

The spring season brought with it decisions from around the state that were of interest to Surrogate’s Court practice. Addressed…

August 09, 2023

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From Season to Season, Decisions Abound for Trusts and Estates Field

As the summer months approach, and the winter and spring seasons leave their trail behind, we consider the many instructive…

June 13, 2023

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Appellate and Surrogate’s Courts Weigh In on Trusts and Estates Practice

Recent weeks have seen Surrogate and Appellate Court opinions addressed to a multitude of issues affecting trusts and estates practice.…

March 30, 2023

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Trusts and Estates Update: The Start of a New Year

As we enter the year 2023, we consider those opinions that rounded out and concluded the year 2022, as well…

February 07, 2023

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A Review of Notable Decisions as the Year Ends

As 2022 comes to a close, we look back on a year marked by numerous decisions of interest impacting trusts…

December 04, 2022

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Spring Happenings In Trusts and Estates

The spring season saw multiple decisions of interest to the trusts and estates practitioner. Addressed to such issues as breach…

August 01, 2022

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Appellate Court Update: Fiduciary Removal, Lack of Jurisdiction, Claim Not Time Barred

Over the past several months, Appellate Division departments have considered a wide range of issues affecting the field of trusts…

April 05, 2022

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A New Year Begins: Fiduciary Fees, SCPA 1404 Examinations and More

As the year 2021 came to an end, and working remotely and virtual court appearances remained the norm, the Surrogate’s…

February 07, 2022

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Closing Comments At the Close of the Year

As the year comes to a close, and we begin to resume life as we once knew it, we take…

December 06, 2021

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Mid-Year Review: Three Notable Surrogate’s Court Decisions

The past several months saw a continuum of opinions rendered by the Surrogate’s Court addressed to issues affecting the practice…

October 04, 2021

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Mid-Year Developments: Fees, Duties and Commissions

As we continue to open our courts and office doors, the Surrogate’s and Appellate Courts throughout the state have been…

August 03, 2021

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Emerging Into Spring: Discovery Sanctions, Gifts, Breach of Duty

The second quarter of 2021 has seen a host of significant decisions from the Surrogate and Appellate courts addressed to…

June 07, 2021

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Appellate Review in the First Quarter

As the year 2020 concluded, and the year 2021 began, the Appellate Division was hard at work rendering decisions addressed…

April 05, 2021

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The Closing Days of 2020

As the year 2020 comes to an end, we stop to remember the trials and tribulations of days past, and…

February 01, 2021

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The Selection of the Right Fiduciary

The testator’s selection of a fiduciary is given great deference by the Surrogate’s Court. Indeed, such respect is accorded to…

December 08, 2020

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As Fall Begins, Looking Back at Cases

As the summer ends, and the colors of fall emerge, Surrogate’s Courts throughout the state continue to examine a broad…

October 05, 2020

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Opening Up

This month’s column, coming on the heels of New York’s re-opening, provides a glimpse of the important work the Surrogate’s…

August 03, 2020

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Appellate Courts Weigh In

Despite the many challenges that have been wrought on the court system over the past several months, decisions of interest…

June 01, 2020

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Cutting It Short: Motions For Summary Judgment

Motions for summary judgment are often utilized in the Surrogate’s Court to crystallize issues and reach a quick result in…

April 20, 2020

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2019: A Formidable End To a Formidable Year

The final months of 2019 saw decisions that were as impactful as they were instructive. Addressed to digital assets, revocation…

February 03, 2020

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Article 31 in Surrogate’s Court: The Road to Discovery

The past several months have seen significant decisions concerning Article 31 discovery in the Surrogate’s Court. Addressed to such issues…

December 10, 2019

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Ilene S. Cooper: Multifaceted Opinions As Summer Came to a Close

Ilene Cooper writes about recent multi-faceted opinions addressing a variety of issues affecting Surrogate’s Court practice in her New York Law…

October 07, 2019

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Sale of Estate Property, Records Inspection, Will Construction

As August moves along, and the summer sadly draws to an end, this month’s column takes a different approach by…

August 12, 2019

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Roundup of Decisions by the Four Appellate Division Departments

During the past year, the appellate courts have rendered decisions of interest to the field of trusts and estates. The…

June 10, 2019

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A Little Bit of This And a Little Bit of That

This month’s column brings the variety that has typified decisions over the past several months. From issues involving domicile, summary…

April 08, 2019

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Be Wary How You Plead

Pleadings, the most fundamental part of trusts and estates practice, if not all practice areas, are often the subject of…

February 04, 2019

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Discovering the Undiscovered

When a will has gone missing, or assets cannot be found, the issue usually becomes the subject of a Surrogate’s…

January 07, 2019

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Highlights and Notable Decisions From Summer 2018

The summer months have seen decisions as variable as the weather, addressed to claims against an estate, fiduciary bonds, and…

October 15, 2018

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The Inside Pages: Two Recent Decisions Worth Noting

The past few months have seen the inside pages of the law journal abound with decisions of interest. Indeed, while…

August 17, 2018

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Receipts and Releases: End of the Road or Just the Beginning

The discharge of an executor or trustee is the ultimate end-game of most, if not all, estate and trust administrations.…

June 14, 2018

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Spring Kick Off: Important Opinions Impacting the Trusts and Estates Field

As the interminable winter has finally come to a close, and spring has thankfully began to emerge, Surrogate and Appellate…

June 11, 2018

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Closing Bell: Three Year-End Decisions From the Surrogate’s Court

As the year 2017 came to a close, Surrogate’s Courts throughout the state continued to address a multitude of issues affecting…

February 16, 2018

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Repeat Performance: More Insights on Receipts and Releases

Recent months have been witness to multiple opinions addressed to receipts and releases. Three of these opinions, In re Ingraham…

December 11, 2017

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Receipts and Releases: A Word to the Wise

Receipts and releases have been used as both a shield and a sword in estate proceedings when fiduciaries are confronted…

October 11, 2017

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Trusts and Estates Update: Variety Fare: Counsel Disqualification, Directed Accounting, Sua Sponte Review

The past several months have witnessed significant decisions on a multitude of issues affecting the field of trusts and estates.…

August 15, 2017

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Trusts and Estate Update: Duress as an Objection to Probate

In Matter of Rosasco, 31 Misc3d 1214(A), the Surrogate’s Court, New York County (Glen, S.). engaged in a thorough analysis…

June 14, 2017

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The Eligibility of a Fiduciary

While deference is accorded to the testator’s selection of a fiduciary, there are circumstances when judicial intervention is required in…

April 13, 2017

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Year in Review: Highlights From the Four Appellate Departments

This past year, the appellate courts have addressed a myriad of issues impacting the field of trusts and estates. This…

February 15, 2017

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The Close of 2016 Provides Useful Instruction

As we conclude the year and look forward to 2017, we continue to appreciate the instruction we receive from Surrogate’s…

December 13, 2016

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Substantive and Procedural Issues Impact Surrogates’ Decisions

As summer began and came to an end much too quickly for us all, the Surrogate’s Courts were busy producing…

October 10, 2016

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Requests for Disclosure: Protective Orders and Preclusion

Motions for protective orders and orders of preclusion are defensive measures frequently utilized by Surrogate’s Court practitioners as a means…

August 09, 2016

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Issues Affecting Estate Litigation and Practice

Litigation in the Surrogate’s Court often brings with it a multitude of issues affecting the outcome of estate litigation. These…

June 13, 2016

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Reasonable Compensation for the Individual Fiduciary – Searching for a Definition

Introduction The commissions of an individual serving as a fiduciary – be it an executor, trustee or even a guardian…

June 06, 2016

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Mistake, Disqualification of Counsel and Personal Jurisdiction

Reprinted with permission from New York Law Journal, Monday, April 11, 2016 issue. The past several months have been witness…

April 18, 2016

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Opinions Instruct on Removal of fiduciaries, Elective Share, Investing

As the year concluded and a new year began, both the appellate courts and the Surrogate’s Courts addressed a variety…

February 09, 2016

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Privilege, Standing, Capacity, Equitable Adoption

Reprinted with permission from New York Law Journal, Volume 254-No. 113, Monday, December 14, 2015. As the days of summer…

December 15, 2015

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Trusts and Estates

Reprinted with permission from The Suffolk Lawyer, Vol. 31, No.2, October 2015. Discovery of Assets In Matter of Perelman, the…

October 23, 2015

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Summary Judgment In the Surrogate’s Court

Reprinted with permission from New York Law Journal, Volume 254-No. 62, Tuesday, September 29, 2015 issue. Although in years past,…

October 02, 2015

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Trusts and Estates Update: Discovery Matters, Will Revocation Issue, Reformation of Trust

Reprinted with permission from an ALM Publication, New York Law Journal, Volume 254-No.27, August 10, 2015 issue. With the advent…

August 12, 2015

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Surrogate’s Court Practice: Appellate Courts Weigh In

June 09, 2015

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Winter’s Roar: Surrogates Tackle Good Faith, Post-Nuptial Waiver, Capacity

Reprinted with permission from New York Law Journal, Vol. 253-No. 69|Monday, April 13, 2015 With below-freezing temperatures, snow, sleet, hail,…

April 13, 2015

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Forfeiture and New York’s “Slayer Rule”

Reprinted with permission from :  New York State Bar Association Journal, March/April 2015. Vol. 87, No. 3, published by the…

March 30, 2015

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Discovery Motions and the Statute of Limitations: Timing Is Everything

Reprinted with permission from New York Law Journal, Vol. 253-No. 29, March 2, 2015 issue.   While motion practice in…

March 02, 2015

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Trusts and Estates Updates

December 12, 2014

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Revisiting 2014: Cases That Shaped Surrogate’s Court Practice

December 09, 2014

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Rebutting the Presumptions of Due Execution and Testamentary Capacity

December 01, 2014

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Case Notes – New York State Surrogate’s and Supreme Court Decisions

October 14, 2014

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A Matter of Interpretation: Construction of Wills

October 03, 2014

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Discovering Discovery Proceedings: Recovering Assets on Behalf of Estate

August 11, 2014

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Appellate Review of Matters Impacting Surrogate’s Court Practice

June 09, 2014

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Motion Practice In the Surrogate’s Court

April 14, 2014

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Trusts & Estates Update

February 10, 2014

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End of Blockbuster Year In Shaping Trusts and Estates Law

February 10, 2014

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Trust and Estates Update

December 10, 2013

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Trusts & Estates Update: Unique Issues on the Road to Discovery

December 09, 2013

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Trusts and Estates Update: Lessons in Estate Administration

October 23, 2013

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Trusts & Estates Update: Summer Blend – Decisions Cover Range of Matters

August 12, 2013

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Trusts & Estates Update: The Removal of a Fiduciary

June 07, 2013

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Trusts & Estates Update: The Probate and Construction of Wills

April 01, 2013

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Trusts & Estates Update: New Year in Surrogate’s Courts: Off to a Running Start

February 01, 2013

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Chair’s Message

Reprinted with permission from: Trusts and Estates Law Section Newsletter, Spring 2013, Vol. 46, No. 1, published by the New…

February 01, 2013

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Disclosure

December 31, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Weathering the Storm: Court System Stays the Course

December 10, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Surrogate’s Court: A Tutorial in Jurisdiction

October 11, 2012

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Exoneration Clauses in Inter Vivos Trust Instruments

Reprinted with permission from: Trusts and Estates Law Section Newsletter, Summer 2012, Vol. 45, No. 2, published by the New…

October 03, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Probate Proceedings, Trust Disputes and Other Summer Happenings

August 10, 2012

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Incomplete Protection: Exoneration Clauses in New York Trusts and Powers of Attorney

July 10, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Gifts: Validity, Enforceability, Fodder for Litigation

June 08, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Attorney-Client Relationship: Fees, Retainer, Disqualification, Malpractice

April 09, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Appellate Review of Objections to Probate and Other Issues

February 09, 2012

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Trusts & Estates Update: Yuletide Mix of Surrogate’s Courts Decisions

December 12, 2011

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Trusts & Estates Update: Back to Basics: Opinions Refresh Essential Principles

October 06, 2011

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Trusts & Estates Update: Surrogates Address Security, Exoneration Clauses, Commissions

August 08, 2011

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Trusts & Estates Update: Sorting Out Claims of Undue Influence

June 13, 2011

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Usurpation of Trust Opportunities and Self-Dealing

Reprinted with permission from: New York State Bar Association Journal, June, 2011, Vol. 83, No. 5, published by the New…

June 01, 2011

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Trusts & Estates Update: Wintery Mix: Guidance on Substantive and Procedural Issues

April 11, 2011

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Trusts & Estates Update: Notable Decisions on Probate of Wills

February 14, 2011

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Trusts & Estates Update: The Errant Fiduciary: Addressing Misconduct

November 08, 2010

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Client Advisory – Recession Presents Opportunities for Estate Planning with Real Estate

As we all know, commercial real estate holdings have been significantly impacted by the recession. Vacancy rates have risen, rents…

October 01, 2010

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Trusts & Estates Update: Summer Happenings: Impact on Practice of Law

September 13, 2010

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Trusts & Estates Update: Dramatic Court of Appeals Rulings & Lessons From Supreme Court

July 12, 2010

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Life After Death: The Authority of Estate Fiduciaries to Dispose of Decedents’ Reproductive Matter

Reprinted with permission of the Touro Law Review. Further duplication without permission is prohibited. For information, contact the Touro Law…

June 01, 2010

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Trusts & Estates Update: Legislation Signed & Vetoed & Court Opinions Calling for Change

May 10, 2010

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Trusts & Estates Update: The Relationship Between Attorney and Client

March 08, 2010

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Client Advisory – The 2010 Federal Estate Tax “Repeal”

As you may already know, much to the astonishment of the legal community, Congress has failed to pass legislation extending…

February 23, 2010

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Trusts & Estates Update: Decisions at Close of 2009 Address Wills, Witnesses, Revocation

January 11, 2010

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Trusts & Estates Update: Appellate Decisions on Privity, Discovery, Gifts, Other Issues

November 23, 2009

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Exoneration Clauses – Not All They’re Cracked Up to Be

Reprinted with permission from: New York State Bar Association Journal, October 2009, Vol. 81, No. 8, published by the New…

October 01, 2009

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The Road Ahead

October 01, 2009

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Trusts & Estates Update: Issues Confronted in Pretrial Discovery

September 21, 2009

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Trusts & Estates Update: Notable Opinions From Supreme & Appellate Courts

July 13, 2009

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Trusts & Estates Update: First Impression Cases, Unique Issues Dominate First Quarter

May 11, 2009

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Trusts & Estates Update: Appellate Courts Offer Guidance on Gifts, Wills & Procedural Issues

February 23, 2009

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Trusts & Estates Update: Attorney-Client Relationship: Fees, Malpractice, Counsel Withdrawal

January 12, 2009

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Trusts & Estates Update: Fiduciary Relations: Role of Fiduciary & Counsel

November 17, 2008

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Trusts & Estates Update: Extrinsic Evidence in Construction of Decedent’s Will

September 15, 2008

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Trusts & Estates Update: Statute of Limitations, Eligibility & Disclosure

July 14, 2008

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Trusts & Estates Update: On Powers of Attorney, Exoneration Clauses, Sanctions

May 18, 2008

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What’s a Distributee to Do? Renunciation and the Dead Man’s Statute

Reprinted with permission from the New York State Bar Association Journal, March/April 2008, Vol. 80, No. 3, published by the…

April 01, 2008

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Trusts & Estates Update: A Grand First Quarter to 2008

March 24, 2008

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Trusts & Estates Update: 2007 Cases to Greatly Affect Surrogate Practice

January 14, 2008

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Trusts & Estates Update: Appellate Division Review

November 19, 2007

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Trusts & Estates Update: Recurring Points of Controversy

September 20, 2007

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Trusts & Estates Update: Reasons for Removal of a Fiduciary

July 19, 2007

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Trusts & Estates Update: Revisiting Summary Judgment in Probate Proceedings

May 17, 2007

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Trusts & Estates Update: A Prolific Beginning to the Year 2007

March 22, 2007

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Trusts and Estates Update: Perspectives of the Appellate Bench

January 25, 2007

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Trusts and Estates Update: Judiciary, Legislature: New Advertising Rules for Lawyers

November 15, 2006

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A New Weapon for Objectants? Probate Contests and Waiver of the Attorney-Client Privilege

Reprinted with permission from the New York State Bar Association Journal, October 2006, Vol. 78, No. 8, published by the…

October 01, 2006

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Trusts and Estates Update: A Gift in Time

September 13, 2006

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POSTHUMOUS PATERNITY TESTING: A PROPOSAL TO AMEND EPTL 4-1.2(a)(2)(D)

Reprinted with permission from Albany Law Review, June 2006 issue. Ilene Sherwyn Cooper, Posthumous Paternity Testing: A Proposal to Amend…

August 13, 2006

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Trusts and Estates Update: Many Decisions, Big and Small, Key to Mid-Year Coverage

July 12, 2006

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Real Estate Issues Play Key Role in the Surrogate’s Court

May 17, 2006

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The Correlation Between Practice Areas

March 09, 2006

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Trusts & Estates Update: A Wintry Mix

January 18, 2006

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The Meaning of a Life Estate and Other Decisions of Interest

November 10, 2005

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Trusts and Estates Update — Cases on Responsibility to Uphold Integrity of Attorney’s Role

September 15, 2005

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Trusts and Estates Update — Supreme Court, Civil Court Opinions on Relevant Issues

July 14, 2005

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Proposed Amendment to EPTL 4-1.4 Expand Grounds for Parental Disqualification

Reprinted with permission from the New York State Bar Association Journal, June 2005, Vol. 77, No. 5, published by the…

June 01, 2005

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Trusts and Estates Update — Appellate Court Decisions

May 12, 2005

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Trusts and Estates Update — Posthumous DNA Test Results, Same-Sex Marriages

March 10, 2005

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Trusts and Estates Update — Amendment to Establish Limit For Electing Against Decedent’s Will

January 19, 2005

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Trust and Estates Update — In Terrorem Clause, Constructive Trust, Fiduciary Liability

September 15, 2004

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Trusts and Estates Update — Legislative Highlights and Decisions of Interest

July 21, 2004

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Trusts and Estates Update — The Spring Semester: Blooming With Options of Interest

May 13, 2004

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Trusts and Estates — Bills of Particulars, Gift, Renunciation

Bills of Particulars In a contested accounting proceeding, motion was made, inter alia, for an order of preclusion based upon…

April 01, 2004

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Trusts and Estates Update: Accounting Decrees and Other Areas of Interest

March 19, 2004

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Trusts and Estates Update

While front page news of recent decisions is certainly eye-catching, and indeed, may prove significant to practitioners, more frequently than…

March 10, 2004

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On Statute of Limitations, Summary Judgment , Attorney-in-Fact

May 21, 2003

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Court Notes

APPELLATE DIVISION – SECOND DEPARTMENT Attorney Resignations: The following attorneys, who are in good standing, with no complaints or charges…

May 01, 2003

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Accounting Decrees and Other Areas of Interest

March 19, 2003

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Revocation of Letters — Trusts and Estates Update

The decedent executed a Last Will and Testament, dated June 5, 2000, naming five executors, her brother and her sister,…

March 01, 2003

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Appointment of Guardian Ad Litem — Trusts and Estates Update

Before the Court was an omnibus proceeding commenced by the decedent’s surviving spouse in her individual capacity as well as…

February 01, 2003

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Marking The End of An Eventful Year

January 23, 2003

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Disqualification of Spouse — Trusts and Estates Update

In a contested proceeding for letters of administration, the decedent’s daughter requested the issuance of letters to herself, and the…

January 01, 2003

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Probate Proceeding — Summary Judgment

In a contested probate proceeding, the petitioners moved for summary judgment dismissing the objections to probate.The Court granted the motion…

December 01, 2002

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Trusts and Estates Issues in State and Federal Courts

November 13, 2002

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Letters of Administration — Trusts and Estates Update

Before the Court was a contested proceeding between the decedent’s son, on the one hand, and four of his siblings…

November 01, 2002

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On Duty to Diversity, Validity of Conveyance, Standing To Challenge

The last half of the calendar year, 2001, saw significant activity at the appellate level affecting the area of trusts…

January 30, 2002

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News

The Halfway Point: Decisions of Interest Mid-2022

As 2022 reaches its midway point, consideration should be given to some of the recent opinions rendered by the Surrogate’s…

June 06, 2022

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Hofstra Law Announces Inaugural Hall of Fame Inductees and 50th Anniversary Celebration

The Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University announced that 50 alumni, as well as 14 distinguished alumni…

November 12, 2021

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Ilene Cooper Named to Youth Board Council

Ilene Cooper has been re-appointed to the Suffolk County Youth Board Coordinating Council. She was appointed to a three-year term…

August 28, 2014

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Who’s Who in Women in Professional Services: Ilene Sherwyn Cooper

August 02, 2013

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Farrell Fritz Named to 2013 U. S. News & World Report’s National Best Lawyers – “Best Law Firms’ List

Farrell Fritz is pleased to announce the firm has received a Tier 1 (highest) ranking in the 2013 Edition of…

January 02, 2013

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Ilene Cooper Named Volunteer of the Year by the Times Beacon Record: Children, Charities Benefit From Her Perseverance

Sandra Day O’Connor turned down eight invitations from Ilene Cooper to speak at a Suffolk County Bar Association luncheon before…

December 29, 2010

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Setting a Higher Bar: Ilene Cooper Has an Ambitious Agenda

July 03, 2009

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On the Move: Ilene Cooper Elected Treasurer of the Trusts & Estates Law Section of the NYSBA

February 20, 2009

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People on the Move: Ilene Cooper Elected Treasurer of the T&E Law Section of the NYSBA

February 09, 2009

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JLNS: Ilene Cooper Elected Treasurer of the Trusts & Estates Law Section of the New York State Bar Association

February 05, 2009

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Farrell Fritz Launches New York Trusts & Estates Litigation Blog

Farrell Fritz trusts and estates associates, Jaclene L. D’Agostino, Robert M. Harper and Frank T. Santoro will also contribute to…

January 26, 2009

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Ilene S. Cooper Advises on Unsettled Estate Remains

December 09, 2008

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Newsday: Ilene S. Cooper Named Outstanding Woman of the Year by Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence

To view this entire article, please copy and paste the following link into your browser: http://www.newsday.com/services/newspaper/printedition/sunday/lilife/ny-winners5858033sep28,0,5852188.story

Protecting Children’s Legacies

July 15, 2005

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Farrell Fritz Attorneys Appointed to Several Boards

UNIONDALE, N.Y. — According to Farrell Fritz, P.C. Ilene Cooper, a partner in the Trusts and Estates Practice Group, has…

June 15, 2004

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Press Releases

23 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2023 Leading Lawyers in Their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz has a combined total of 23 attorneys selected to the 2023 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 26, 2023

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29 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2024 Leading Lawyers by Best Lawyers

Farrell Fritz congratulates 19 attorneys on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©  2024.…

August 18, 2023

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22 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2022 Leading Lawyers in Their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz has a combined total of 22 attorneys selected to the 2022 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 29, 2022

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21 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2023 Leading Lawyers by Best Lawyers

Farrell Fritz congratulates 17 attorneys on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©  2023.…

August 18, 2022

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27 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2021 Leading Lawyers in Their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz has a combined total of 27 attorneys selected to the 2021 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 30, 2021

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17 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2022 Leading Lawyers by Best Lawyers

Farrell Fritz congratulates 12 attorneys on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America©  2022.…

August 19, 2021

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30 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2020 Leading Lawyers in Their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz has a combined total of 30 attorneys selected to the 2020 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

November 04, 2020

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Four Farrell Fritz Partners Receive Top Awards

Farrell Fritz is pleased to announce that John J. Barnosky and Robert E. Sandler both received the Best Lawyers in…

October 04, 2019

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29 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2019 Leading Lawyers in Their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz has a combined total of 29 attorneys selected to the 2019 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 17, 2019

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Ten Farrell Fritz Attorneys Named to The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

Farrell Fritz congratulates ten attorneys on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020.…

August 15, 2019

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30 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2018 Leading Lawyers in Their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz had a combined total of 30 attorneys selected to the 2018 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 13, 2018

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Ten Farrell Fritz Attorneys Named to The Best Lawyers in America© 2019

Farrell Fritz congratulates ten attorneys on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2019.…

August 09, 2018

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Farrell Fritz Receives Tier 1 Ranking in 2018 U.S. News – Best Lawyers’ “Best Law Firms”

Farrell Fritz is pleased to announce that, for the sixth consecutive year, the firm has received a Tier 1 Ranking…

November 01, 2017

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31 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2017 Leading Lawyers in their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz had a combined total of 31 attorneys selected to the 2017 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 20, 2017

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Ten Farrell Fritz Attorneys Named to The Best Lawyers in America 2018

Farrell Fritz congratulates ten attorneys on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018.…

August 15, 2017

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Ilene Sherwyn Cooper of Farrell Fritz Joins The SYJCC Board

We are pleased to announce that estate litigation partner Ilene Sherwyn Cooper has been appointed to the board of The…

June 19, 2017

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30 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2016 Leading Lawyers in their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz had a combined total of 30 attorneys selected to the 2016 New York Metro Super Lawyers and New…

September 21, 2016

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Nine Farrell Fritz Partners Named to The Best Lawyers in America© 2017

Farrell Fritz congratulates nine partners on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2017.…

August 16, 2016

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30 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2015 Leading Lawyers in their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz had a combined total of 30 attorneys selected to the 2015 New York Super Lawyers and New York…

September 16, 2015

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Seven Farrell Fritz Partners Named to The Best Lawyers in America© 2016

Farrell Fritz congratulates seven partners on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2016.…

August 21, 2015

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30 Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as 2014 Leading Lawyers in their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz had a combined total of 30 attorneys named to the 2014 New York Super Lawyers and New York…

September 23, 2014

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Farrell Fritz Partner, Ilene Sherwyn Cooper, Appointed to the New York Bar Foundation’s Planned Giving Task Force

Farrell Fritz is pleased to announce that Ilene Sherwyn Cooper was recently appointed to the New York Bar Foundation’s (“The…

September 15, 2014

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Six Farrell Fritz Partners Named to The Best Lawyers in America© 2015 List

Farrell Fritz congratulates six partners on being selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2015.…

August 18, 2014

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Farrell Fritz Partner, Ilene Sherwyn Cooper, Appointed Co-Chair of the Fellows of the New York Bar Foundation for the 10th Judicial District

Farrell Fritz is pleased to announce that Ilene Sherwyn Cooper was recently appointed co-chair of the Fellows of the New…

February 07, 2014

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Farrell Fritz Partner Ilene Sherwyn Cooper Appointed to the Board of Advisors of Touro Law Center’s Aging & Longevity Law Institute

Farrell Fritz congratulates Ilene Sherwyn Cooper on her recent appointment to the Board of Advisors of Touro Law Center’s Aging…

October 04, 2013

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Five Farrell Fritz Partners Named to The Best Lawyers in America® 2014 List

Farrell Fritz congratulates five partners on being recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America®…

August 15, 2013

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Ilene Sherwyn Cooper of Farrell Fritz Appointed to Two New York State Bar Association Committees

Farrell Fritz warmly congratulates trusts & estates partner Ilene Sherwyn Cooper on her recent appointment to two New York State…

June 12, 2013

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Ilene Sherwyn Cooper Elected Suffolk County Bar Association Representative to the New York State Bar Association House of Delegates

Farrell Fritz trusts and estates partner Ilene Sherwyn Cooper has been elected to serve as the Suffolk County Bar Association’s…

February 07, 2013

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Five Farrell Fritz Partners Named to The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 List

Farrell Fritz congratulates five partners on being recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America®…

November 14, 2012

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Farrell Fritz Attorneys Recognized as Leading Lawyers in their Respective Areas of Practice

Farrell Fritz congratulates ten partners and one counsel on being selected for the 2012 New York Super Lawyers – Metro…

October 11, 2012

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Farrell Fritz Partners Named to the New York Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists

Farrell Fritz congratulates seven partners on being selected for inclusion on the New York Super Lawyers 2011 – Metro Edition…

October 27, 2011

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Touro Law to Honor Farrell Fritz Partner, Ilene S. Cooper, as Adjunct Professor of the Year

On Sunday, May 29, 2011, Farrell Fritz trusts and estates partner, Ilene S. Cooper, will be presented with the Adjunct…

May 20, 2011

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Friends of Karen Names Ilene S. Cooper, Esq. to Steering Committee

Ilene S. Cooper, Esq. has joined Friends of Karen’s Steering Committee and Long Island Advisory Board. Cooper, a partner at…

February 14, 2011

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Five Farrell Fritz Partners Named to 2010 Super Lawyers List

Farrell Fritz congratulates five attorneys on being selected for inclusion in the 2010 New York Super Lawyers®. The five partners…

October 15, 2010

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Ilene S. Cooper to Receive Award from The Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund

On Friday, March 12, 2010, Farrell Fritz trusts and estates partner, Ilene S. Cooper, will receive a special award from…

February 02, 2010

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Five Partners Named to 2009 Super Lawyers List

Farrell Fritz congratulates five attorneys on being selected for inclusion in 2009 New York Super Lawyers® – Metro Edition. The…

October 16, 2009

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Ilene S. Cooper Installed as Third Female President of Suffolk County Bar Association in 101 Year History

On Thursday, June 4, Farrell Fritz trusts and estates partner, Ilene S. Cooper, was installed as President of the Suffolk…

June 05, 2009

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"The Doctors Are In" ~ Women’s Health Symposium to be Co-Chaired by Ilene S. Cooper

March 05, 2009

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Ilene S. Cooper Elected Treasurer of the Trusts & Estates Law Section of the NYSBA

January 29, 2009

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Five Farrell Fritz Partners Named to 2008 Super Lawyers® List

October 02, 2008

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Ilene S. Cooper to Receive Outstanding Woman of the Year Honor from Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence

September 10, 2008

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Ilene Cooper Appointed to Honorary Board of Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence

June 12, 2008

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Ilene S. Cooper Appointed to Suffolk County Youth Board Coordination Council

March 12, 2008

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Attorney’s Bill Protecting Non-Marital Children Becomes Law

January 28, 2008

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New Law Creates Uniformity in Discovery for Accounting Proceedings

August 16, 2007

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Ilene S. Cooper Keynote Speaker at Suffolk Academy of Law’s "Women and the Law" Seminar

May 08, 2007

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Ilene S. Cooper, Esq. to Receive 2007 Achiever’s Award

April 04, 2007

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Children’s Advocate, Ilene S. Cooper, Drafts Legislation; Governor Pataki Signs Into Law

September 18, 2006

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Farrell Fritz Attorneys Receive Special Honors and Two New Associates Join the Firm

April 20, 2005

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Former Chief U. N. Weapons Inspector, Dr. Hans Blix, to Address Suffolk County Bar Association

April 12, 2005

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Former New York State Governor Mario Cuomo to Speak at Huntington Hilton Hotel

July 23, 2004

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I. Cooper Board Appointment, Award Recipient; K. McElroy Joins Farrell Fritz

July 22, 2004

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Ilene S. Cooper Appointed to the House of Delegates of the New York State Bar Association and as Sec

May 18, 2004

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Cooper, Curry And Forrest Appointed to Several Boards

Ilene S. Cooper Appointed to the House of Delegates of the New York State Bar Association and as Secretary of…

May 18, 2004

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Hazing, Gang Affiliations, Harassment and the Social/Legal Implications for Our Children and Institu

May 10, 2004

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Ilene S. Cooper, Esq., Named Partner at Farrell Fritz, P.C.

Ilene S. Cooper, an attorney at Farrell Fritz who practices in the area of Trusts and Estates, has been named…

January 12, 2004

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Recognition

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Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University

Hall of Fame honoree 2022

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Best Lawyers in America

Lawyer of the Year—Long Island 2019, 2021

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Best Lawyers in America

Litigation - Trusts & Estates 2013 - present

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Super Lawyers – New York Metro

Top 100 List 2019, 2020

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Super Lawyers – New York Metro

Top 50 Women, 2020

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Super Lawyers

New York Metro (Estates & Trust Litigation) 2008-Present

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AV Preeminent Martindale-Hubbell

Peer Review Rating

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Martindale-Hubbell Top Women Lawyers in the Northeast

Trusts & Estates, Wills & Probate 2011

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Long Island Business News

Who's Who in Women in Professional Services 2010, 2013

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Times Beacon Record

Volunteer of the Year 2010

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The Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Fund

Special Award 2010

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Long Island Center for Business and Professional Women

Achiever in Law 2007

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Long Island Business News

Top 50 Women Hall of Fame Inductee 2005

Community Work

Ilene is a board member of the Suffolk County Child Care Council and Child Abuse Prevention Services (CAPS).  She serves on Friends of Karen’s Advisory Board and Touro Law School’s Board of Governors.

Ilene is a member of the Museum of Modern Art’s Friends of Education Committee.  She also serves on the Nassau County Museum of Art’s Annual Ball Committee.

Ilene is also a member of the board of directors of The Safe Center LI, located in Bethpage, a nonprofit agency serving the victims of domestic abuse and child abuse.

Ilene is a past member of the Children’s Medical Fund Corporate Alliance, The Hills Foundation, Half Hollow Hills Business Advisory Council, and West Hollow Middle School’s School-Based Management Team.