When Jeffrey M. Feldman and Paul S. Kleidman opened the doors of their law firm in 1986, they had three simple goals.
First, they wanted to help clients successfully navigate what can often be a difficult, unfamiliar and overwhelming legal process by leading with compassion, skill and integrity.
Second, they wanted to create a workplace where people genuinely enjoyed coming to work, despite the demanding nature of the profession.
Third, they wanted to give back to the community that had supported them, helping local organizations and causes continue their important work.
Forty years later, as Jeff prepares to retire, the impact of those three goals can be seen in the clients served, the careers built and the communities strengthened along the way.
What began as a two-lawyer practice has grown into an award-winning firm recognized throughout the Hudson Valley and Capital District for excellence in personal injury litigation, medical malpractice defense and corporate philanthropy. Along the way, Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S) has helped countless clients navigate challenging circumstances, seek justice and regain peace of mind.
Despite the success of the firm over the years, if you ask Jeff what he is most proud of, the answer goes far beyond verdicts, settlements or accolades. It is the people.
For more than four decades, FKC&S has fostered a culture built on teamwork, mentorship, family and philanthropy. The firm’s late office manager, Patricia “Patti” Porcaro, was by Jeff’s side for more than 40 years, helping guide the firm’s growth from its earliest days. Other team members have dedicated 30, 20 and 10-plus years of their careers to the firm, a testament to the workplace culture Jeff and Paul worked hard to create.
Over the years, Jeff has been grateful to work alongside talented attorneys who have contributed to the firm’s growth and success while embracing its commitment to excellence. The collaborative culture that has defined FKC&S for four decades has fostered mentorship and professional development across generations of legal professionals.
During a recent appearance on “The Hudson Valley Business Scene Show,” Jeff reflected on the importance of those who mentored him throughout his career.
“When you have someone who takes you under their wing and advises you, mentors you, counsels you and keeps you pointed in the right direction, there’s nothing better,” he said.
Over the years, Jeff has worked to pay that forward, mentoring generations of attorneys who now carry on the firm’s commitment to excellence. He is equally proud of the many professional relationships that grew alongside FKC&S. As the firm expanded, so did opportunities for countless local businesses and professionals, including process servers, court reporters, copy centers, plumbers, technology providers, marketing and public relations firms and many others who helped support the firm’s work.
Just as important has been the firm’s longstanding commitment to community service. From sponsoring youth sports teams and supporting local nonprofits to serving on boards and volunteering time and resources, giving back has been woven into FKC&S’s identity from the very beginning.
“We all collectively supported each other,” Jeff recalled during the interview, describing a culture where professional responsibilities and community commitments were equally valued.
Among those helping lead the firm into its next chapter are partners Robert R. Sappe, Kathryn C. Collins and Bain R. Loucks, whose experience, leadership and dedication to clients reflect the same values that have guided FKC&S since its founding. As Jeff steps into retirement, he does so with confidence in the team that will carry the firm’s mission forward.
“I decided it was time to stop working seven days a week and spend more time with my family and our grandkids — and enjoy life,” Jeff said.
While retirement marks the end of an extraordinary legal career, it is far from the end of his involvement in the community he has long called home. Jeff plans to remain active with Family Services, Hudson Valley Hospice, the Town of LaGrange Parks & Recreation and other organizations that continue to make a difference throughout the region.
As FKC&S turns the page to its next chapter, the firm’s foundation remains unchanged: exceptional service to clients, a supportive workplace culture and a steadfast commitment to community.
Those were the goals in 1986. They remain the mission today.