Hill Wallack Managing Partner Michael Kahme said he understands the increasing demand — and ability — to work from home. But he also knows the need to be in the middle of the action.
That’s why Hill Wallack, a full-service law firm based in Princeton that already has four other offices, announced Thursday that it is opening its sixth in New York City at 261 Madison Ave.
Kahme said the firm’s leadership recognized a significant opportunity in New York across many of its nearly 40 practice areas. From lending transactions to foreclosure and bankruptcy work and beyond, Kahme said Hill Wallack is looking to build and strengthen a solid team in New York and expand into additional practice areas as the team grows.
“The demand is definitely there,” he said. “Our clients have spoken, and we are rising to meet their needs. New York is a natural extension for us. In a very short period of time, we have developed a full team, servicing a growing number of clients across a variety of practice areas.”
The office marks the firm’s second expansion in the last three years due to the growing business needs of their clients. Hill Wallack also has offices in Cedar Knolls, Cherry Hill and Red Bank in New Jersey, as well as Yardley, Pennsylvania.
In the age of the remote workforce and meetings via Zoom, Kahme said the firm still believe a brick-and-mortar office in New York City is necessary for Hill Wallack.
“For many cases, we needed to be able to meet — both internally and with clients,” he said. “And the space we’re in is very inspiring to both our team and to our clients.”
The office is two blocks from Bryant Park.
The new office has a modern and industrial design scheme, with floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors and modern amenities such as cafés, lounges and plenty of meeting spaces, from casual and open to private and professional — all aimed at keeping staff motivated and inspired.
“The beauty of this office is that the space can grow as our team grows,” Kahme said. “More office space here, or in another building, or even in another city. This model is a great complement for a firm like ours. The scalability of space enables us to remain focused on our work, as the economy and workforce sorts itself back into place.”
Eric Kelner, New York administrative partner and chair of Creditors Rights Group at Hill Wallack, agreed.
“With our strategic partnership with Industrious, a provider of flexible office spaces around the world, we have positioned ourselves for future growth as the firm grows within NYC and other future markets,” he said.
“The space is cool and hip with an industrial vibe. Its eye-catching finishings will attract talent and make a lasting impression on clients.”
Kahme said Hill Wallack’s growth plan is not over.
“We anticipate our growth here will continue, and that we will continue to attract more top-tier professionals to our team, as we strengthen our presence throughout the region,” he said.
