McDermott Will & Schulte

McDermott Will & Schulte brings sophisticated legal expertise to property tax consulting, combining our extensive tax law background with deep understanding of real estate valuation principles. Our approach differs from typical consultants by leveraging our firm's broader legal resources and relationships within New York's regulatory environment. We handle complex cases that require legal precision and strategic thinking. Our property tax practice serves high-value residential and commercial clients who need more than basic appeal services. We work with property owners, developers, and investment firms to optimize tax positions through careful analysis of assessment methodologies and aggressive but professional advocacy. Our track record includes successful appeals on properties worth millions of dollars.

We provide comprehensive property tax legal services including assessment appeals, valuation disputes, and tax exemption applications. Our team conducts thorough legal research into assessment methodologies, challenges improper valuation techniques, and identifies procedural errors that can invalidate assessments. We represent clients in administrative hearings and court proceedings when necessary. For commercial clients, we analyze income and expense data, review capitalization rates, and challenge assessment assumptions that don't reflect market realities. We also assist with tax certiorari proceedings in state court for high-stakes cases where administrative appeals aren't sufficient. Our services extend to negotiating payment plans, abatement agreements, and settlements that minimize our clients' overall tax burden while avoiding protracted litigation.

We begin with a comprehensive legal and financial analysis of your property and current assessment to identify all possible grounds for reduction. This includes reviewing assessment methodology, checking for procedural compliance, and analyzing comparable properties used in valuation. Our team then develops a multi-faceted strategy that may include administrative appeals, court challenges, or negotiated settlements. Throughout the process, we maintain regular communication and provide detailed status reports. We prepare extensive documentation packages and coordinate with appraisers, engineers, and other experts when technical testimony is required. Our goal is achieving optimal results while minimizing disruption to your business or personal affairs.

We focus primarily on Manhattan and other high-value markets throughout New York City, with particular expertise in luxury residential and commercial districts. Our practice also extends to Westchester County and Long Island for clients with significant property holdings. We're selective about cases, typically handling properties valued above $2 million where our legal expertise provides maximum benefit.