Since opening in 1995, Cioffi · Slezak · Wildgrube P.C. has become a trusted and sought after legal resource for individuals, families, and businesses across the Capital Region. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, our timeline below highlights the milestones, achievements, and people who have helped shape our firm over the past three decades!

We invite you to explore our history and see how our dedication to service, leadership, and community has guided our journey—one moment at a time.

The firm was founded by Cris Cioffi, and Howard Carpenter, Esq., in 1995. After a decade of practice and upon Howard’s retirement, the firm became an exclusively women-owned law practice in Schenectady, NY by 2005. From the beginning, Cris aimed to break traditional norms in the legal profession by fostering an environment where women could thrive as attorneys. The office started from modest beginnings with a continuing commitment to growth. Areas of practice initially included family law, estate planning, real estate, and estate administration.

Deborah A. Slezak, Esq., joined the firm, bringing a focus to elder law, guardianship, estate planning, and estate administration. She has been widely recognized for her contributions, including receiving the NYS Women of Distinction Award in 2016, her appointment as Attorney for the Village of Hagaman in 2021, the 2024 Aging Crystal Pillar of the Community Award and more!

Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., joined the firm, bringing a strong foundation in estate planning, business law, and real estate. A recognized leader in the community, she has received multiple honors, including the Schenectady County Bar Association’s 2012 Lawyer of the Year Award and the New York State Bar Association’s 2013 President’s Pro Bono Award.

The firm’s founders, Cris Cioffi, Esq., and Howard Carpenter, Esq., were honored by the Capital District Women’s Bar Association with the Carol S. Knox Family Friendly Employer Award. The firm was recognized for establishing employment policies that supported employees in balancing their professional responsibilities with family commitments.

Deborah Slezak, Esq., became a partner at the firm. Deborah serves as the Co-Chair of the SCBA’s Trust and Estates and Elder Law Committee and was the Secretary of the Board of the SCBA.

Michelle Wildgrube, Esq., became a partner at the firm. Michelle is a former chair of the New York State Bar Association’s Real Property Section and serves on the board of directors of the Federation of Bar Associations. Read more about Michelle’s appointment.

The firm became the first exclusively female-owned law practice in Schenectady County and the largest 100% women-owned firm in the Capital Region, celebrating 10 years of success! This milestone coincided with founding partner Howard Carpenter, Esq., becoming Of Counsel.

Cioffi • Slezak • Wildgrube P.C. received the Enterprise of the Year award from The Chamber of Schenectady County! The firm was recognized for its significant contributions to the community and its continued success as a leading law firm in the region.

The firm was recognized by Girls Incorporated of the Greater Capital Region for its support in helping to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold—demonstrating our commitment to empowering young women and supporting a successful future for girls in our community!

The firm received the Breaking the Glass Ceiling Business Award from the Schenectady Chamber of Commerce. This award recognized the firm’s leadership in advancing women in the legal profession and its commitment to fostering an inclusive, women-led workplace.

The firm formed its first Tax Department, which has become an integral part of the firm. The department remains busy year-round, particularly during tax season, providing essential services to individuals and businesses needing tax planning and preparation.

Lauren E. Sharkey, Esq., joined Cioffi, Slezak, Wildgrube P.C. as a law clerk and the following year as an associate! Lauren is a former chair of the NYSBA Young Lawyers Section. She is also a current member of the NYSBA Elder Law and Special Needs Law Section as well as the Trusts and Estates Section’s Executive Committees, helping her stay informed on current legal issues to serve her clients. In recognition of her dedication, Lauren was honored with the Schenectady County Bar Association’s Lawyer in Service to the Community Award. Read more about Lauren being named a Fellow.

In June 2015, the firm was honored as one of the Top Women-Owned Law Firms by the New York Law Journal, recognizing our leadership, ownership, and excellence in legal practice.

The Firm celebrated its 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of providing exceptional legal services to clients in the Capital Region. The firm reflected on its growth and accomplishments since its founding in 1995, honoring its commitment to the community and clients.

The firm was recognized for its community impact at the YWCA’s Empowerment Awards Gala, the organization’s signature event celebrating individuals and organizations making significant contributions toward eliminating racism and empowering women and girls!

The firm received an official proclamation from the Office of the Mayor of Schenectady, New York, recognizing our exceptional leadership, integrity in service, and meaningful contributions to the community — an honor we humbly accepted with gratitude.

Lauren Sharkey, Esq., was admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, a distinct honor in addition to her admission to the New York State Bar. Following the ceremony, she had the honor of meeting Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg! Lauren was joined by her husband, Pat, and their 11-month-old daughter, Margot, making it a memorable and meaningful milestone for both her career and family.

The firm received an official proclamation from the Office of the Mayor of Schenectady, New York, honoring founding partner Cris Cioffi Esq. and current partners Deborah Slezak Esq. and Michelle Wildgrube Esq. for their leadership and service to the community!

The Firm relocated to new offices at 1473 Erie Boulevard in Schenectady’s Harbor District, marking a significant milestone! The move was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by The Capital Region Chamber, local dignitaries, clients, and friends!

Lauren E. Sharkey, Esq., became a partner of the firm, bringing her expertise in estate planning, elder law, business law, and real estate. She is an active leader in the legal community, serving on multiple NYSBA executive committees and earning recognition as a Rising Star in Estate Planning and Probate! Read the Q&A with Lauren Sharkey.

Amy Robinson, Esq. joined the firm and brought with her the pro bono work she does for Habitat for Humanity, contributing her legal expertise to support affordable housing initiatives and community development!

CSW employees attended the Key4Women Annual Forum to support and empower women in business. Key4Women has been advocating for the financial progress of businesswomen since 2005 through advocacy, connections, and empowerment, opening doors for more women in more ways than ever before. Read about the 2024 Key4Women Annual Forum.

Cioffi • Slezak • Wildgrube P.C. celebrates 30 years of legal service, marking three decades of dedication to providing exceptional legal services to individuals, families, and businesses in the Capital Region! The firm reflects on its growth, achievements, and continued commitment to the evolving needs of its clients and community!