Clarissa represents private clients in a wide range of both transactional and litigation matters, including commercial litigation and chancery litigation, as well as provides representation for New Jersey municipalities. She handles legal research, drafting, discovery, and case resolution for disputes involving individuals, businesses, and/or public entities.
Before joining Hoagland Longo, Clarissa gained litigation experience practicing criminal defense in New York City, where she handled motions proving actual innocence and appellate advocacy. Driven by her commitment to professional development and mentorship, Clarissa established and directed the law firm’s summer internship program, creating meaningful opportunities for law students to gain hands-on experience and professional growth.
Clarissa served as a Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Benjamin Bucca, Jr., J.S.C., in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex Vicinage.
Areas of Focus
Commercial Litigation
- Addresses disputes involving contracts, business relationships, and business tort actions.
- Develops litigation strategies tailored to businesses and individual clients.
- Represents lenders in suits on notes and guaranties and residential and commercial mortgage litigation.
- Conducts risk assessments and assists in the pre-litigation resolution of commercial matters.
Municipal Representation
- Defends municipalities in a broad spectrum of litigation, including Affordable Housing litigation and Administrative Law proceedings.
- Supports the firm’s representation of local library Boards of Trustees, providing legal counsel on governance and public law issues.
Chancery Litigation
- Handles contested matters involving trusts and estates.
- Represents the interests of clients seeking equitable claims and remedies in chancery litigation.
Appellate Representation
- Possesses experience contributing to appellate advocacy, including preparation of appellate briefs before the New Jersey Superior Court, Appellate Division.