Ethan M. Peterson

Ethan Peterson is a Partner at Westfall Law, focusing his practice on Corporate and Business Law. With a dedication to his clients’ needs, Ethan is principled, plain-spoken, and committed to finding equitable and economically efficient solutions for his clients. Known for his idealism, moral compass, and his direct and client-centric approach, Ethan is an excellent communicator who excels at making complex legal concepts and processes easy for his clients to understand.

Background

Growing up in a small midwestern farming town and around his family’s 4th generation small advertising business, now managed by his older brother, Ethan gained first-hand exposure to the challenges faced by small business owners. 

Ethan earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and obtained his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law. While at SU Law, Ethan simultaneously pursued a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Relations, as well as a Certificate of Advanced Study in National Security & Counterterrorism Law. His expertise is further enhanced by a Certificate in Maritime Law & Shipping Contracts.

Ethan is admitted to practice in New York State, the U.S. Virgin Islands, The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, and the U.S. District Court of the Virgin Islands. Since joining the firm as an intern for Attorney Westfall between his second and third years of law school, Ethan has made significant contributions in his role at Westfall Law, including:

Corporate and Business Law

• Assisted numerous businesses in their initial corporate formation, providing guidance on legal requirements, structuring the entity, and drafting necessary documentation.
• Advised clients on business management matters, including corporate governance, contract negotiation, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Advised clients on business management matters, including corporate governance, contract negotiation, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Represented clients in mergers and acquisitions, ensuring smooth transactions, conducting due diligence, and negotiating favorable terms.
• Assisted businesses in reorganizing their structures to enhance efficiency and profitability, including restructuring ownership, streamlining operations, and implementing strategic changes.

Condominium and Homeowners’ Associations

• Provided comprehensive legal counsel to condominium and homeowners’ associations, addressing management issues, drafting and amending bylaws, and facilitating board and member meetings.
• Assisted associations in navigating restrictive development matters and ensuring compliance with fair housing regulations.
• Played a key role in enforcing and collecting charges owed by association members, utilizing effective legal strategies to protect the interests of the community.

Probate and Estate Administration

• Assisted clients in navigating the complex process of probate and estate administration, ensuring the efficient and orderly transfer of assets after a loved one’s passing.
• Guided executors and administrators through the legal requirements, including filing necessary documents, notifying beneficiaries and creditors, and managing estate assets.
• Skillfully handled contested probate matters, representing clients in will contests, disputes over asset distribution, and other litigation arising from estate administration.

Ethan’s commitment to his clients’ needs has earned him recognition as a Super Lawyers’ Rising Star in Upstate New York for three consecutive years (2021-2023). This prestigious accolade reflects his dedication to providing exceptional legal services and finding innovative solutions for his clients.

While Ethan dedicates himself to his legal career, he also prioritizes spending quality time with his wife, Darian Shuker, and their adorable pup, Riley. In their free time, Ethan and his Wife escape in their love for live music. Ethan enjoys playing mandolin, taking road trips, and spending time outdoors camping and hiking.

With his unique blend of legal expertise and zest for life, Ethan Peterson is an invaluable asset to Westfall Law and a trusted advocate for his clients.

Admitted to Practice

• New York State
• US Virgin Islands
• United States District Court for the Northern District of New York
• United States District Court of the Virgin Islands

Education

• Syracuse University College of Law, J.D.
• Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, M.S., International Relations
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania, B.S., Political Science 
• Certificate in Maritime Law & Shipping Contracts