Business Details
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Vermont
Monaghan Safar is a Vermont-based law firm dedicated to delivering exceptional legal services with a focus on approachability and efficiency. Our attorneys are licensed in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and multiple federal courts, enabling us to serve clients across regional boundaries. With expertise in environmental, real estate, business, family, and governmental law, we combine deep legal knowledge with practical problem-solving to address complex challenges. Our team prioritizes responsiveness and diligence, ensuring clients receive tailored solutions grounded in decades of collective experience.We represent municipalities, businesses, and individuals, offering strategic counsel in litigation, transactions, and regulatory compliance. By integrating proactive strategies and alternative dispute resolution, we aim to minimize litigation while safeguarding client interests. Our commitment extends beyond legal outcomeswe strive to build lasting relationships rooted in trust and transparency.
Services
Environmental Law
Real Estate
Business Law
Estate Planning
Family Law
Governmental Law
Employment & Labor Law
Litigation
Appellate Practice
Municipal Law
Highlights and features
- We offer decades of combined experience in Vermont's unique legal landscape.
- Our attorneys are licensed in multiple states and federal jurisdictions.
- Responsive team prioritizes clear communication and timely solutions.
- Proactive strategies minimize litigation while protecting client interests.
- Specialized expertise in environmental, municipal, and business law.
Services
Environmental Law
We provide business-focused solutions to environmental challenges through counseling, permitting, litigation, and administrative action. Our team combines legal expertise with technical knowledge to navigate complex federal and state regulations. We represent clients in disputes, enforcement matters, and negotiations while prioritizing cost-effective alternatives to litigation.
Real Estate
We assist clients in residential and commercial real estate transactions, including acquisition, development, and financing. Our services cover title issues, zoning compliance, and contract negotiations. We represent lenders, borrowers, and developers to ensure smooth property transfers while addressing potential legal risks.
Estate Planning
We offer personalized estate planning services, including wills, trusts, and long-term care strategies. Our approach ensures asset protection, Medicaid eligibility, and clear directives for healthcare and property distribution. We guide families through probate and trust administration to honor client intentions.
Family Law
We handle divorce, child custody, and support cases with compassion and strategic advocacy. Our attorneys help clients navigate emotional challenges while protecting their rights. We facilitate parenting agreements, property division, and prenuptial arrangements tailored to individual family needs.
Governmental Law
We provide comprehensive legal counsel to municipalities, including cities, towns, and quasi-governmental entities. Our services cover land use, employment disputes, and constitutional matters. We represent local governments in litigation, regulatory compliance, and policy development to support effective governance.
People
Brian Monaghan
Co-Founder
Brian co-founded Monaghan Safar and specializes in municipal law. He represents Vermont cities, towns, and villages in land use, constitutional claims, and employment disputes. With over a decade of experience, he advocates for clients in litigation and advisory roles.
Claudine Safar
Attorney
Claudine practices land use, zoning, and appellate litigation. She represents clients before state and municipal boards, focusing on environmental court cases. With extensive trial experience, she advocates for individuals, businesses, and municipalities in complex legal matters.
Kristen Shamis
Attorney
Kristen supports municipal law and business transactions. She assists with land use, litigation, and real estate matters. Her practice includes advising clients on regulatory compliance and representing them in court proceedings related to local governance and commercial disputes.
Lori Ruple
Attorney
Lori specializes in real estate law with experience in private practice and judicial clerkships. She handles residential and commercial property transactions, focusing on title issues, contracts, and financing arrangements for individuals and businesses across Vermont.
Tara MacAskill
Attorney
Tara focuses on real estate law, representing national lenders and local clients in property transactions. She handles residential and commercial sales, refinancing, and development projects. Her practice emphasizes clear title transfers and compliance with state regulations.
Questions
What areas of law does Monaghan Safar specialize in?
We specialize in environmental, real estate, business, family, and governmental law, along with estate planning and employment law.
Do you represent clients outside Vermont?
Our primary focus is Vermont, but we also practice in New Hampshire, Maine, and federal courts with multi-jurisdictional experience.
How does the firm handle complex litigation?
We combine aggressive litigation with alternative dispute resolution to achieve efficient outcomes, leveraging decades of trial and appellate experience.
Can you assist with municipal legal matters?
Yes, we provide counsel to Vermont municipalities on land use, employment issues, and regulatory compliance in state and federal courts.
What estate planning services are available?
We offer wills, trusts, Medicaid planning, and long-term care strategies to protect assets and ensure client intentions are honored.
