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Amy C. O’Hara

Partner

Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA®)

(914) 684-2100

Biography

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Affiliations

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Honors

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News & Articles

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Speaking Engagements

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Certified Elder Law Attorney

ACO_SuperLawyers

Amy C. O’Hara

Amy focuses her practice on special needs planning, trusts and estates, elder law and personal injury settlement consulting . She is a sought out speaker and frequently speaks to advocacy organizations on the importance of proper planning for families of children with special needs.

Amy C. O’Hara is a partner with the law firm of Littman Krooks LLP. Her practice focuses in the areas of elder law, estate planning and administration, trust administration, guardianship, special needs planning and personal injury settlement consulting.

Amy lectures frequently to advocacy and professional organizations and families on the importance of proper planning for families of children with special needs. She regularly publishes articles relating to elder law, estate and special needs planning.

Amy is Certified as an Elder Law Attorney (CELA®) by the National Elder Law Foundation and is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA).

She is the President of the Board of Directors of the Special Needs Alliance, a national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting families with special needs planning. Amy is also the President of the Board of Directors of Westchester Disabled on the Move, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that aims to improve the quality of life and the rights for all people with disabilities.

She is a member of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA), Elder Law and Trusts & Estates Sections of the NYSBA, Westchester County Bar Association, and Mamaroneck-Harrison-Larchmont Bar Association.

Amy received her Juris Doctor degree from University at Buffalo Law School and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Binghamton University.

Amy is married and the mother of two sons.

Professional Affiliations

Honors

Best Lawyers in America^®(Elder Law and Trusts and Estates) since 2020

New York Super Lawyer since 2019

News & Articles

Speaking Engagements

Westchester Institute of Human Development’s Future Planning Webinar: “How Do We Pass The Torch?”
Taxation on Special Needs Trusts
Special Needs Planning: Common Errors
Top 10 Considerations Professionals Must Know When Assisting Families with Special Needs
Using Pooled Trusts in Special Needs Planning with special guest Lee Ackerman, Executive Director of ACT for Life Services, Inc.
AANE Greater Hudson Valley Support Group for Families of Adults with Asperger’s/Autism: Using Corporate Trustees in Special Needs Trusts
NAELA Seminar: Maximizing the Quality of Life for Adults with Developmentally Disabilities
SNA: Distribution Provisions for First and Third Party Special Needs Trusts
Cooke School Presentation: Preparing for the Future: Child Centered Special Needs Planning

Blogs

Striking a Balance: Examining 17-A Guardianship Practices for Individuals in Need

2024 Estate and Gift Tax Exemptions

Planning Tips When Confronted with a Terminal Illness

Why Using a Special Needs Attorney is Important

Special Needs and Elder Law Proposed Legislation of Interest

Estate Planning for the Special Needs Family

Legislation Empowers Families to Support Charitable Organizations Providing Essential Services for Loved Ones

Estate Planning For Your Pet

A New Crisis Hotline for Mental Health

Update on Supported Decision Making in New York State

Articles

Special Needs and Elder Law Update: A Rundown of Recent Court Decisions

Managing Virtual Learning for Students with Special Needs

Advocating for Least Restrictive Alternatives in Plenary Guardianships

Supplemental Needs Trusts

Supplemental Needs Trusts: How They Can Help Your Child with Special Needs

Dual Eligible Beneficiaries Under Medicare and Medicaid

Special Needs Trust Fairness Act Becomes Law

Bullying of the Special Needs Child and What Parents Can Do

What Is a Special Needs Trust?

Press

Amy C. O’Hara Sworn in as President to the Board of Directors of the Special Needs Alliance

Littman Krooks LLP Attorneys Distinguished as 2024 The Best Lawyers in America® for Excellence in Elder Law and Trusts & Estates

Amy C. O’Hara, Partner of Littman Krooks LLP, Announced as President-Elect of the Special Needs Alliance

Littman Krooks Attorneys Named ‘Super Lawyers’ in New York for 2022

Littman Krooks Named Among Best Law Firms in New York for 2022

Littman Krooks Attorneys Named “Super Lawyers” in New York for 2021

Littman Krooks Partners Named to Best Lawyers in America® for Excellence in Trusts & Estates and Elder Law

Amy C. O’Hara Named Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Special Needs Alliance

Littman Krooks Partners Named to Best Lawyers in America for Excellence in Elder Law and Trusts and Estates

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America to hold free virtual educational conference to help New Yorkers affected by Alzheimer’s during pandemic

Videos

Special Needs Planning: Common Errors

Littman Krooks LLP attorney Amy C. O’Hara, Esq. speaks about common errors she sees in special needs planning, such as not being flexible when drafting trusts, not properly selecting trustees, not considering gifting strategies, contingencies in a special needs trust, and more.

Podcasts

Estate Planning in Chaotic Times

Littman Krooks attorneys Laura Brancato, Esq., Amy C. O’Hara, Esq., and Brian L. Miller, Esq., join Bernard A. Krooks, Esq., to discuss how families and people with disabilities can complete estate planning documents and advance directives using video technology during chaotic times.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Practice Areas

Special Needs Planning

Estate Planning

Administration of Estates & Trusts

Personal Injury Settlement Consulting

Education

J.D., University at Buffalo Law School

B.S., Binghamton University

From the Library

Featured post

Update on Supported Decision Making in New York State

By Amy C. O’Hara, Partner From recent experience in New York guardianship courts on applications where individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities may have some higher functioning…

Read More >

Featured post

Managing Virtual Learning for Students with Special Needs

Reprinted with permission of the Special Needs Alliance (www.specialneedsalliance.org) This post was authored by attorney Amy C. O’Hara, CELA of Littman Krooks, LLP, New York….

Read More >

Recent Littman Krooks News

Littman Krooks Partners Named to Best Lawyers in America® for Excellence in Trusts & Estates and Elder Law

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (PRWEB) August 25, 2021 | Featuring Bernard A. Krooks, Esq., and Amy C. O’Hara, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

Read News >

Recent Littman Krooks News

Amy C. O’Hara Named Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Special Needs Alliance

(PRWEB) November 02, 2020 | Featuring Amy C. O’Hara, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

Read News >

Featured article

Advocating for Least Restrictive Alternatives in Plenary Guardianships

NYSBA Elder and Special Needs Law Journal | Spring 2020 | Vol. 30 | No. 1 | By Amy C. O’Hara, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

Read Article >

Recent Littman Krooks News

Why a Supplemental Needs Trust May Be Appropriate for Your Child With Special Needs

New York Family | Featuring Amy C. O’Hara, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

Read News >

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Everyone was polite and helpful. They were straightforward with what they could fight for and what they couldn’t. No compaints.

Elizabeth G.

2/09/2024

I cannot rave enough about working with Brian Miller and the team at Littman and Krooks. They honestly made me feel like family. The soft, non pushy approach and knowledge of their subject area is not only comforting, but reassuring. I even recommend them to my daughter-in-law and son! Now that’s confidence!

jane r.

2/01/2024

If you are looking for a professional, smart, knowledgeable, caring, efficient, and effective legal team to help with Estate and Elder care Law, I would heartily recommend Littman Krooks. I have used several other firms in the past for issues pertaining to Elder Care and Estate Planning and have not previously found the high level of service and care that I have at Littman Krooks. This firm resolved a rather complicated issue with an outcome that surpassed my expectations, and even hopes. The process was seamless with promptly returned phone calls and emails, excellent communication and fair pricing. I worked specifically with Bernie Krooks and Laura Brancato.

Roselle M.

10/23/2021

After the passing of our Dad in January, we had an unfortunate situation with another sibling. The event took us completely by surprise and we barely had time to obtain legal help. Laura Brancato with Littman Krooks LLP was referred to us. Not only did Laura accommodate us, but within 24 hours, was able to prepare all necessary details to present our case. The stress was indescribable.I cannot say enough about Laura's professionalism, integrity and communication skills. Without a doubt, Laura worked tirelessly on our behalf to represent us in an extremely critical hearing.Laura's legal expertise was above and beyond our expectations. She showed genuine care, concern and calm when we were at our lowest.We will be forever grateful and appreciative to Laura and Littman Krooks LLP for representing us and gaining a successful conclusion in our favor.

AM R.

10/23/2021

I highly recommend Littman Krooks for all of your child's educational needs. Arshi Pal and Nicole Garcia have worked with both of my children on three impartial hearings and annual IEP meetings over several years. They are an amazing team who follow through from the beginning of the process until your child receives everything that they need to succeed. In addition, they follow-up to ensure that services are being implemented and are effective. They are available to answer questions and guide you throughout. You will not wait a week for a call back. I would describe Arshi and Nicole as attentive, caring, responsive, reliable, available and strong advocates. I couldn't ask for a better team!

Rochellie R.

10/23/2021

Littman Krooks has an excellent reputation, yet my high expectations were exceeded when I became Marion Walsh's (of LK's) client. My son, "Rhys" [not his real name], was a student in a (solid) Special Education school, from which he was due to graduate in three years, when I met Marion. My research had led me to conclude that a particular Special Ed high school would be the condign one for Rhys, and I wanted to do all I could to make sure that's where he ended up. Although this high school is on the NYS "Approved List" -- meaning it is private, but Special Ed students can be placed there -- it is highly desirable and admissions are competitive; I wanted an attorney to shepherd us through the Admissions process. I contacted LK and met with someone at the firm in NYC. That attorney arranged with me to meet Marion Walsh at her office in LK's White Plains office because Marion is especially familiar with the school I wanted for my son, in addition to being experienced with every aspect of the annual IEP process, which is crucial when it comes to next-school placement. I met with Marion Walsh, who outlined what we would need to do over the next two years to give Rhys the best shot at the school I wanted for him, as well as to ensure that he be given appealing options besides that school. From that point on, Marion and her team, including Sandi Rosenbaum, were involved in Rhy's IEP meetings, making sure that these evaluations and final reports, which prospective schools would consider carefully, reflected the best view possible of Rhys's progress. Marion deftly worked as an intermediary among me, Rhys's school, and the Committee on Special Education. She pushed for having Rhys's classification changed from "Emotionally Disturbed" to "Other", and made sure his IEP cited the strong evidence that justified that change. THAT was a key reason that Rhys was accepted at the school I had hoped he would attend...where he now is a student and is thriving! During the two years I worked with Marion and her team, including Sandi Rosenbaum, they were consistently responsive -- routine emails or calls from me would get at least a quick acknowledgment within a few hours; in urgent situations, within 30 minutes -- thorough, sympathetic, and highly professional. Because we had several important meetings with the school and CSE during Covid, and those had to be Zoom calls, the meetings were particularly challenging to control - yet Marion managed to guide these meetings assertively, making essential points and being a champion for my son. I highly recommend Marion Walsh and I intend to work with her again when I next have a decision to make about Rhys's education or training options, or should any problem arise. She's a superior attorney with a first-rate team.

MEMcC

7/23/2021

Very detailed conversation! Highly recommend! Gives great advice! Help with your issue!

Nalini P.

5/23/2021

I have worked closely with Bernie Krooks, Mitchell Littman, Amy O'Hara and somewhat with Stephanie Goldstein. All are high quality lawyers with a strong work ethic, putting the client first and a long-view of what it means to be a good lawyer. As a lawyer and as a client, I am a big fan.

Scottness M.

2/23/2021

8 years ago, 2012 I hired Littman Krooks for my Mom's elder care needs. He set up a trust, taught me how to manage it so as to protect her savings, and recieve assitance for her long term care needs. The investment in the firm's services resulted in protecting her assets and approval for government assistnce. When you need an attorney for senior care, pick an elder attorney. When you want the best attorney, Littman Krooks comes to mind.

David P.

11/23/2020

Bernie Krooks and the team at Littman Krooks resolved a complex estate matter quickly and efficiently. They handled this matter with professionalism, compassion, and were always responsive. We are extremely satisfied with the results of working with Bernie and his team. Without any reservations, we highly recommend Littman Krooks.

Melissa A.

11/23/2020

My experience with Littman Krooks llp has been amazing. My Attorney Mrs. Pal, the secretaries the entire team work closely together and are invested 100% in obtaining what there clients need. I was always treated with complete respect and importantly they always made sure that all my messages were taken and received by my Attorney.Mrs. Pal and her team do not miss any details they are on top of everything.My attorney Mrs.Pal is an exceptional attorney who is dedicated to helping her clients obtain what they need. I am truely greatful for all they have done for my kids.

E V.

11/23/2020

I hired Littman and Krooks handle both my impartial hearings against the DOE and I have to say that I was impressed. Arshi Pal and Nicole Garcia were amazing. They never lost their patience with me and walked me through every single step. They fought hard and were instrumental to getting my son all the services he is entitled to. I will forever be grateful to Arshi, Nicole and Littman Krooks.

Betsy L.

11/23/2020

I saved a small fortune by obtaining the services of Littman Krooks. They walked me through the maize of health care options for my mother. while giving me the tools to protect her assets through the creation of a trust. Their staff is knowledgeable and available for consultations so that elder care management was greatly simplified. thank you

David P.

11/23/2020

I was referred to Bernie Krooks for a very important matter that was extremely complex and involved sensitive personal issues. Bernie and his team resolved the matter in a timely and efficient manner.We are extremely satisfied with the results. The entire Littman Krooks team was always very responsive to our needs and addressed them in a professional and compassionate way. It is our pleasure to recommend Littman Krooks without reservation.

Melissa A.

11/23/2020

The Littman and Krooks staff are courteous, professional and fully anticipated my family’s legal needs. I highly recommend Littman and Krooks!

Steve L.

11/23/2020

I had an excellent consultation experience with them over the phone. It was different than others I had approached. I also enjoy the emails that have great information.

Alex T.

11/23/2019

our family relied on the calm caring expertise of the Littman Krooks staff and attorneys to guide us through a difficult time. I have recommend the firm wholeheartedly to other families and will definitely use them again should the need arise.

Peluso F.

11/23/2019

We are very pleased with the attention to detail that both Marion W and Erica F, our attorneys, provided. That attention is what ultimately led to our positive outcome. The Littman Krooks team, especially Marion and Erica took a difficult situation and made it easier. If you are in need of, knowledgeable, professional attorneys- look no further.

mark n.

11/23/2018

Six years of home instruction and unsuccessful attempts by two priorlaw firms to help with my child's case with the DOE, left him in despair--but now he's THRIVING!...No words are adequate enough to express gratitude to Marion Walsh, a true miracle worker, whose advocacy transformed my child's life.Geraldine P.

geraldine p.

11/23/2018

I originally came to Littman Krooks on another matter. It was quickly brought to my attention that their were other concerns that could be and needed to be addressed with my son. My situation was quickly acted on and handled efficiently and with better success then I even anticipated. The entire staff I had dealings with were personable, caring and knowledgeable. I never had to wait for any questions or concerns regarding the matter in which they were representing me. I would highly recommend Littman Krooks.

michelle h.

7/19/2018

Six years of home instruction and unsuccessful attempts by two prior
law firms to help with my child's case with the DOE, left him in despair--
but now he's THRIVING!...No words are adequate enough to express gratitude to Marion Walsh, a true miracle worker, whose advocacy transformed my child's life.

Geraldine P.

geraldine p.

6/14/2018

A great firm to work with. I have worked with many of the lawyers at this firm on Supplemental Needs Trusts and Estates for families with disabled relatives. Outstanding!

Lee A.

11/23/2017

Very knowledgeable and professional. They worked extremely well with our Estates lawyer to provide a comprehensive plan.

Marc C.

11/23/2017

The professionals at Littman Krooks are top notch, smart, attentive, and effective. Our case against the school district for our daughter was resolved in a positive outcome within weeks. I would highly recommend Marion Walsh for all of your most complicated situations. She has great experience and knows the law!!!!

Tristi N.

11/23/2017

Amy O'Hara, Esq, and her support team were first rate in addressing our estate planning needs. They are experts in the field, skilled and quite professional. They were very helpful to us. .

Timothy B.

11/23/2017

We have worked with this firm for the last few years. They helped us in setting up a trust and doing our yearly accounting for it. We've worked with Amy O'Hara and Stacy Sadove. They are prompt in answering any and all question and give well informed advice. We will definitely continue to use their services in the future.Maya P.

toozen P.

11/23/2017

I highly recommend Litman Krooks for special education needs and advocacy. Marion Walsh and Sandi Rosenbaum were able to help us secure the educational services that our child needed, and they did it with extremely little time to prepare. We were very impressed with their responsiveness and willingness to take our case with just a few days notice. Sandi Rosenbaum attended our child's IEP meeting as a parent advocate, and was extremely knowledgeable about the process, helping us avoid multiple potholes before, during, and after the IEP meeting. We felt confident at all times that we were getting the best possible service, and the IEP outcome that they helped us achieve was exactly what we had been hoping for, and our child needed. We feel that Litman Krooks saved us a great deal of time, money and stress. We will certainly ask them to represent us again in the future if needed.

Susana M.

11/21/2017

We have worked with this firm for the last few years. They helped us in setting up a trust and doing our yearly accounting for it. We've worked with Amy O'Hara and Stacy Sadove. They are prompt in answering any and all question and give well informed advice. We will definitely continue to use their services in the future.

Maya P.

toozen P.

8/01/2017

Bernie Krooks is among the leading Elder Law Attorneys in the country and I have seen how he serves his clients with professionalism, unsurpassed knowledge and true empathy. As an attorney, I have worked with Bernie on a number of cases. I have seen first hand how he exceeds client expectations. Very impressive.

Scottness M.

1/13/2017