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“Becoming a lawyer is my way of following in my mom’s footsteps, who has always worked hard in her law practice to help others. It was a natural decision for me because her example inspired me to pursue a career where I could use the law to make a positive difference and advocate for others. I really enjoy working with clients and colleagues to find solutions and navigate through tough times.”
Patricia T. Whelan, Esq.
Associate Attorney
Patricia T. Whelan joined the Capital Region office of Pierro, Connor & Strauss, LLC as an Associate Attorney in January 2024. She practices business planning, trust & estate planning, corporate law, tax planning, estate & trust administration, and Medicaid & long-term care planning. Her focus is on assisting individuals and their loved ones as they are planning for the future to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Previous Experience
Prior to her role as an Associate Attorney, Ms. Whelan served as a Law Clerk at the Firm for 2 years where she focused on conducting legal research and assisting clients with business and estate planning. Ms. Whelan has previously interned for the Third Judicial District, Federal Public Defender’s Office, and ABA Section of State and Local Government Law.
Professional Recognition
Pierro, Connor & Strauss, LLC is proud to announce that Ms. Whelan has been recognized for the first time by Best Lawyers® as Ones to Watch in America, 2026 Edition, in the fields of Elder Law and Trusts & Estates. Only about 2% of early-career attorneys nationwide receive this honor.
Typically, this award is given to attorneys with 5-9 years of experience, yet Ms. Whelan has achieved this distinction after just less than 2 years in practice. Each honoree exemplifies discipline, reputation, and professional respect, making this a remarkable milestone so early in Ms. Whelan’s career.
Education
Ms. Whelan earned her J.D. from Albany Law School in May 2023 and was admitted to the New York State Bar in January 2024. During her time at Albany Law, Ms. Whelan was very active in the school’s community and was even a featured guest on the school’s podcast. She served as Editor-in-Chief of the Center for Judicial Process and was involved with the Albany Law Review and Student Bar Association. Ms. Whelan also enjoyed competing in Moot Court and was a finalist in the 2021 Donna Jo Morse Client Counseling Competition.
Additionally, she served as a Student Ambassador and Chief Justice of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity where she received the Outstanding Law School Chapter Justice Award for her leadership and volunteerism. Ms. Whelan also joined the Elder and Disability Law Pro Bono Society as Vice President to conduct outreach events and advocate for people as they age and those with disabilities.
Before attending law school, Ms. Whelan received her bachelor’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University majoring in Criminology with a minor in Sociology.