Who We Are
Ward & Rafter, LLP is a client-centered law firm proudly serving Staten Island and New York State. Founded by Mark A. Ward and Andrew Rafter, our practice is built on a foundation of experienced advocacy, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to our clients' interests.
With over 30 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys bring deep courtroom expertise and practical problem-solving to every matter. We have successfully represented clients across every level of New York's court system, from Richmond County Housing Court to the Supreme Court Appellate Division and federal courts.
The firm's origin story is itself a testament to the quality of its attorneys. Mark and Andrew first encountered each other on opposite sides of the courtroom — Mark as Project Director at CAMBA Legal Services, Andy as an associate at Howard File, P.C. Over years of adversarial practice, they developed a mutual respect for each other's skill and work ethic that ultimately led them to found Ward & Rafter together in 2021.
Our Approach
At Ward & Rafter, we believe in building strong relationships with our clients. We're not just your lawyers—we're your trusted advisors and strategic partners. From our first consultation through the resolution of your case, you can trust us to be relentless while exercising the highest level of professionalism and care.
Our approach is collaborative and client-centered. We involve our clients in every stage of representation, keeping you informed and seeking your input on strategy. We believe that you, as the client, are the ultimate decision-maker, and our role is to provide you with the knowledge, options, and skilled advocacy you need to achieve your goals.
Staten Island Focus
While we serve clients throughout New York State, Staten Island is our home. We have extensive experience in Richmond County's courts and deep knowledge of the local legal landscape. Our attorneys are regular practitioners in Richmond County Housing Court, Richmond County Civil Court, and Richmond County Supreme Court, giving us unique insight into the issues that matter most to Staten Island landlords, condominium boards, and business owners.
Our understanding of Staten Island's rental market, real estate challenges, and community dynamics allows us to provide tailored, effective representation that gets results.
Technology & Modern Practice
We leverage modern technology to provide efficient, accessible legal services. From virtual consultations to secure client portal access through MyCase, we make it easy for our clients to stay connected and informed. Our paperless systems ensure secure document management and streamlined communication.
This modern approach doesn't replace the personal touch—it enhances it. Technology allows us to be more responsive, more organized, and more effective advocates for our clients.
Reputation & Results
Our work speaks for itself. Both partners have achieved multiple published decisions in the New York Law Journal, demonstrating our commitment to advancing the law and achieving precedent-setting results for our clients. We're known throughout Staten Island's legal community for our preparation, professionalism, and tenacity.
Whether through skilled negotiation or aggressive trial advocacy, we consistently deliver the outcomes our clients need. Our reputation is built on results, and our success is measured by yours.
Our Values
Client-Centered: Your goals guide our strategy. We listen, we advise, and we execute—always with your best interests at heart.
Experienced: Over 30 years of combined courtroom experience means we've seen it all, and we know how to win.
Accessible: We're here when you need us. Virtual consultations, responsive communication, and transparent billing make working with us straightforward and stress-free.
Strategic: We prepare every case as if it's going to trial, strengthening our clients' negotiating position and ensuring we're ready for any outcome.
Relentless: We fight for our clients with determination and skill, never backing down from a challenge.
Ready to Get Started?
From our first consultation to the resolution of your case, you can trust Ward & Rafter, LLP to be relentless while exercising the highest level of professionalism and care. Come in and meet our team.