Joseph R. Bergen has litigation and trial experience in the areas of scaffold and construction site accidents, automobile and motorcycle accidents, dog bite cases, slip and fall claims and other general personal injury matters. Mr. Bergen is a 1991 graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Law and a 1987 honors graduate of the State University College at Oswego. Admitted to practice in all New York State Courts in 1992, he practiced as an Associate with Markel and Associates, as Trial Counsel with Matusick, Spadafora and Verrastro, P.C. and then as Lead Trial Counsel with The Law Office of William Mattar. Mr. Bergen is an active member of the Erie County and New York State Bar Associations and the Committees on Insurance and Negligence.

Joe’s Mission:
Since my admission to practice law in the Courts of the State of New York and Federal Court in 1992, I have solely focused on obtaining full compensation and pursuing all rights of accident victims. As a profession, I truly enjoy being an attorney because I am able to counsel my clients who don't know where to start when they are injured. I’ll work with you, in a team approach, to obtain all rights and benefits you’re entitled to under the law.

Whether I’m in the courtroom standing before a jury, or negotiating at a conference room table with an insurance adjuster, I’ll continue to vigorously pursue your claim to the fullest extent. That’s what truly provides me with the most fulfillment and satisfaction as a personal injury attorney.

While money damages from a verdict or settlement cannot provide you closure, it may afford you and your family the time and breathing room needed to get back on your feet or even to pursue a new career because you lost the ability to work in the occupation you held prior to your accident.

I believe clear communication is vital between a client and attorney and my dedication to helping you goes well beyond 9-5. I’m always available by office telephone or email, but you’ll also have my personal cell phone number for issues or concerns that just cannot wait until the next business day, no matter how small it may seem.

In my spare time, my wife Betsy and I enjoy live music, boating and hiking and, with 16 siblings between us, a lot of family gatherings.

TODD M. SCHIFFMACHER, PARTNER
todd@bandsllp.com

Todd M. Schiffmacher concentrates his practice in the area of personal injury wherein he handles auto accident, motorcycle accident, premises liability, medical malpractice and product liability cases. He graduated cum laude from St. John Fisher College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Political Science. He obtained his Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law. He previously served as trial counsel for William K. Mattar, P.C. and was formerly associated with the law firms of Webster Szanyi, LLP and Feldman, Kieffer & Herman, LLP. He is admitted to practice in New York State as well as United States District Court for the Western and Northern Districts of New York and United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of New York.  He is presently a member of the Erie County Bar Association and New York State Bar Association.

Todd’s Mission:
Since graduating from Syracuse University College of Law, I have strived to provide each client I represent with the most zealous representation and personal attention possible. I treat every client, no matter what type of case or how serious the case, the same. I’ll pay attention to details of your case and leave no stone unturned in an attempt to obtain a maximum recovery for you.

Prior to representing plaintiffs, I worked for many years for several large insurance companies. Contrary to what they tell you, they are not on your side and they’re not there to help you. Their primary goal is to stall and delay the resolution of your case for as long as possible and to ultimately settle your case for as little money as possible. They do not care what injuries you have sustained or what effect your injuries have had on your ability to live, work and lead a normal life. Because of my prior experience, I have the knowledge and experience to effectively combat the insurance company’s tactics and get you everything you deserve.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Jennifer, and three daughters, Hannah, Mia and Brianna. I also coach youth soccer for the Grand Island and Northtowns soccer clubs and serve as the Lecturer for the Grand Island Knights of Columbus.