Maria V. Hanford, FCIArb.
Over the course of more than 20 years, Hanford has developed her expertise in alternative dispute resolution. The last half of her career included counseling and protecting the rights of healthcare providers in just about every area of their practices. Hanford created an environment within the firm which served clients by advocating for out-of-court negotiations or the selection of an alternative dispute resolution forum such as arbitration. Hanford is especially known for her negotiation skills as well as her ability to identify the significant elements of a case, utilizing her extensive experience to synthesize the optimal strategy for her clients.
Hanford attained experience in several diverse areas of law. Her impressive résumé began right out of law school when Hanford was recruited by and worked for The Legal Aid Society of Nassau County. Shortly thereafter, she was appointed as an assistant prosecutor in Nassau County. Hanford’s ambition promoted her to a number of unique and high level legal positions.
Hanford was assistant to a senior associate in a prominent midtown law firm focusing on trademark and copyright infringement. She was also outside counsel to a multimillion-dollar international security firm and to a downtown Manhattan law firm, operating as special counsel at one of the world’s top financial conglomerates. Hanford now spends the majority of her time participating within the ADR community as an arbitrator and mediator. Hanford’s extensive and varied law experience is an indispensable asset, making her a unique blend of attorney, business woman, and ADR specialist.
Hanford received her Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University and her Juris Doctor from Touro College, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center.
Recent article by Maria Hanford, Esq.
U.S. Mediators in Latin America: The Importance of Cultural Intelligence
Hanford is the Chairperson and sits on the Board of Directors of The Dolores Foundation for Alzheimer’s Research, Inc.—a charitable non-profit organization enhancing public awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias.