Business Details
Trusted Legal Representation in Massachusetts
Scolnick Laverty & Gouveia is a full-service law firm dedicated to delivering high-quality legal representation across Massachusetts. Our attorneys combine decades of experience with a commitment to aggressive advocacy and personalized client service. We specialize in landlord/tenant law, real estate litigation, estate planning, and business law, serving clients ranging from individuals to national corporations.Our practice is built on maintaining strong client relationships, providing cost-effective solutions, and staying ahead of legal developments to minimize risks. With a team of seasoned professionals, we ensure clients receive informed guidance tailored to their unique needs while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice.
Services
Landlord/Tenant Law
Real Estate Litigation
Estate Planning
Business Law
Civil Litigation
Highlights and features
- We offer over 60 years of combined legal experience in Massachusetts-specific law.
- Our attorneys are recognized for aggressive advocacy and successful client outcomes.
- We provide tailored legal strategies with a focus on cost-effectiveness and transparency.
- Our team maintains deep expertise in landlord/tenant law and real estate litigation.
- We prioritize client communication and proactive risk management through legal updates.
Services
Landlord/Tenant Law
Our firm specializes in Massachusetts landlord/tenant law, representing property owners and managers in eviction proceedings, lease disputes, and compliance matters. We provide strategic legal counsel to minimize litigation risks while protecting clients' rights. Our experience spans subsidized housing, commercial properties, and luxury developments, ensuring tailored solutions for complex real estate challenges.
Real Estate Litigation
We handle real estate litigation involving property disputes, contract breaches, and zoning issues. Our attorneys advocate for clients in state and federal courts, focusing on efficient resolutions through settlements or trials. Expertise includes commercial property conflicts, title disputes, and regulatory compliance, ensuring robust protection of our clients' real estate investments.
Estate Planning
Our estate planning practice assists individuals in creating wills, trusts, and advanced directives to manage assets effectively. We guide clients through probate, guardianship, and tax planning to ensure their wishes are honored. Services include customized strategies for wealth preservation and intergenerational transfers, tailored to each client's family and financial situation.
Business Law
We provide business law services covering entity formation, contract drafting, and corporate governance. Our attorneys advise on mergers, acquisitions, and compliance matters, supporting businesses from startups to established corporations. We prioritize risk mitigation and strategic growth planning to help clients navigate complex legal landscapes in Massachusetts and beyond.
Civil Litigation
Our civil litigation team represents clients in disputes ranging from consumer rights to premises liability. We focus on early case assessment to protect clients' interests, leveraging negotiation skills and courtroom experience. Services include dispute resolution for business conflicts, contractual disagreements, and real estate-related litigation across Massachusetts courts.
People
Stephen M. Scolnick
Partner
A founding partner with nearly 50 years of legal experience, specializing in landlord/tenant law and real estate litigation. Retired but remains a strategic advisor to the firm.
Mark R. Laverty
Partner
Co-founder with over 25 years of experience representing real estate management companies in complex landlord/tenant matters and corporate law issues across Massachusetts.
Lisa M. Gouveia
Partner
Co-founder specializing in landlord/tenant law, with expertise in housing discrimination cases and real estate transactions since joining the Massachusetts Bar in 2003.
Vladimir L. Nechev
Partner
Represents businesses in landlord/tenant disputes and general commercial litigation, offering strategic legal solutions for property management companies and corporate clients.
Michael J. Pavloski
Of Counsel
Focuses on civil litigation for real estate companies, handling housing court and district court matters with a track record of successful outcomes for national clients.
Questions
What legal services does Scolnick Laverty & Gouveia specialize in?
We specialize in landlord/tenant law, real estate litigation, estate planning, business law, and civil litigation, serving clients across Massachusetts with tailored legal solutions.
Can landlords in Massachusetts charge last month's rent as a deposit?
Yes, Massachusetts law permits landlords to collect first month's rent, last month's rent, a security deposit (up to one month's rent), and key charges.
How does the firm handle complex landlord/tenant disputes?
Our attorneys use proactive strategies to prevent litigation, negotiate settlements, and zealously advocate for clients in court when necessary, focusing on cost-effective resolutions.
What estate planning documents do you help create?
We assist with wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and probate administration to ensure comprehensive estate planning tailored to individual needs.
Can a landlord deny housing based on criminal history?
Landlords must evaluate criminal records case-by-case under HUD guidelines, balancing safety concerns with fair housing requirements to avoid discriminatory practices.
