Shatz, Schwartz & fentin Attorneys Dominate 2025 Super Lawyers & Rising Stars Lists: A Legacy of Legal Excellence in Massachusetts
(Published December 29, 2025)
Springfield and Northampton-based law firm Shatz, Schwartz and fentin, P.C. continues to solidify its position as a leading legal force in Massachusetts,with an impressive nine attorneys recognized in the prestigious 2025 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists. This widespread recognition underscores the firm’s deep bench of talent and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional legal counsel across a diverse range of practice areas.
What makes a Super Lawyer? Understanding the Rigorous Selection Process
Super Lawyers, a respected peer-review rating service and a division of Thomson Reuters, identifies outstanding attorneys who have demonstrated a high degree of professional achievement and peer recognition. The selection process is far from simple. It employs a patented, multi-phase methodology that includes:
* Peer Nominations: Attorneys across the state nominate lawyers they consider to be exceptional in their field.
* Peer Evaluation: Nominees are evaluated by their peers based on professional experience, accomplishments, and ethical standards.
* Independent Research: Super Lawyers conducts independent research to verify credentials and assess the attorney’s standing within the legal community.
This rigorous process ensures that only the most qualified and respected attorneys earn the Super Lawyers designation. The “Rising stars” list specifically recognizes attorneys who are 40 years old or younger, or have been in practice for 10 years or less – identifying the next generation of legal leaders. Only 2.5% of Massachusetts lawyers achieve this distinction annually.
Celebrating Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin’s 2025 Super Lawyers Honorees
The firm’s six attorneys named to the 2025 Massachusetts Super Lawyers list represent decades of combined experience and expertise:
* Michele Feinstein (Estate & Probate – 19th Time): A true leader in estate planning and elder law, Ms. Feinstein guides clients through the complexities of estate administration, special needs planning, and long-term care with compassion and strategic insight. Her nearly two decades of Super Lawyers recognition speaks to her consistent dedication to client needs and her profound understanding of evolving legal landscapes.
* Gary Fentin (Goverment Finance - 20th Time): Mr. Fentin’s two decades on the Super Lawyers list highlight his unparalleled expertise in commercial and real estate finance,industrial revenue bonds,and affordable housing. He is a key figure in the firm’s tax-exempt bond practice, having served as bond and purchaser’s counsel for over 40 years.
* carol Cioe Klyman (Elder Law – 21st Time): With an astounding 21 years of Super Lawyers recognition, Ms. Klyman is a nationally recognized authority in elder law. Her practice encompasses estate planning, special needs planning, MassHealth appeals, and estate litigation. She is also a dedicated mentor, actively educating attorneys across Massachusetts on long-term care and special needs planning.
* Timothy Mulhern (Tax Law – 18th Time): Managing Partner Mr.Mulhern brings over 45 years of experience to his practice, specializing in family business planning, real estate, taxation, and corporate law. Licensed in both Massachusetts and New York, he provides comprehensive legal solutions for a diverse clientele.
* James Sheils (Banking Law – 11th Time): Mr. Sheils’ consistent recognition (11 consecutive years) in banking law demonstrates his deep understanding of commercial finance, creditors’ rights, and banking regulations. He also advises on complex telecommunications siting matters.
* Steven Weiss (Business Bankruptcy Law – 19th Time): A seasoned bankruptcy attorney, Mr. Weiss has been named a Super Lawyer 19 times. He expertly navigates commercial and consumer bankruptcy, reorganization, and litigation, representing creditors, debtors, and related parties throughout Massachusetts. He also serves as a Chapter 7 trustee.
Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin‘s Rising Stars: Shaping the Future of Law
The firm’s three Rising Stars exemplify the next generation of legal talent:
* Michael Fenton (Business & Corporate law - 12th Time): mr. Fenton’s 12 consecutive years on the Rising Stars list demonstrate his rapid ascent as a leading business and corporate attorney. His combined legal and MBA training allows him to provide clients with sophisticated counsel on transactional,tax,and regulatory challenges. He focuses on commercial real estate,business planning,and business succession.
* Stephen Sobey (Estate & Probate – 5th Time): Mr. Sobey is quickly establishing himself as a trusted advisor in estate planning and administration, and also elder law