About Donald

Donald Vanarelli practices estate planning and elder law in Westfield, New Jersey. He has been the owner of his law firm since 1992, focusing on providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the needs of his clients. The firm assists individuals with estate planning, wills, trusts, and elder law matters, ensuring that clients' wishes are honored and their assets are protected. He earned his J.D. from Rutgers School of Law-Newark in 1979. Prior to that, he completed a B.A.

in English Literature at Montclair State University in 1968. His legal career began with various internships and clerkships, including a law clerk position in 1983 and multiple internships in the early 1980s. These experiences laid a solid foundation for his practice and broadened his knowledge of the legal field. Donald is admitted to practice in several jurisdictions, including New Jersey, New York, and before the U.S. Supreme Court. He also has access to the 2nd and 3rd Circuit Courts.

His experience in estate planning and elder law has earned him several certifications, including Certified Elder Law Lawyer and Accredited Veterans Lawyer. He is also a trained collaborative professional and an accredited mediator, which enhances his ability to resolve disputes amicably. In addition to his legal practice, he is actively involved in various professional organizations. He serves as the Chair of the Elder and Disability Law Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association. Donald is also a founding member of the Elder Mediation Center of New Jersey and the New Jersey Collaborative Law Group. His contributions to the field have been recognized through his involvement with the Council of Advanced Practitioners of the National Academy of Elder Law Lawyers and the Academy of Special Needs Planners.

His commitment to the community is evident through his volunteer work and leadership roles in various associations. Donald's expertise in elder law and mediation allows him to assist families in navigating complex legal issues related to aging and disability. He is dedicated to advocating for the rights and needs of vulnerable populations, ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary for their well-being. As a attorney, Donald Vanarelli combines legal knowledge with a compassionate approach, making him a trusted advisor for clients facing challenging legal situations. His firm continues to serve the Westfield community, providing essential legal guidance in estate planning and elder law.

Education

Rutgers School of Law-Newark

J.D. | Law

1979

Montclair State University

B.A. | English Literature

1968

Experience

Owner

Law Office
1992

Law Clerk

Superior Court of New Jersey
1983

Internship

United States Court of Appeals for the Third Judicial Circui
1982

Internship

US Securities and Exchange Commission
1981

Summer Associate

Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals
1980

Social Insurance Representative

Social Security Administration
1974

Volunteer

Peace Corps
1972

Accepted Jurisdictions

New York
U.S. Supreme Court
New Jersey
3rd Circuit
2nd Circuit

Court Admissions

U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court
New Jersey State Supreme Court
New York State Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit U.S. Circuit Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit U.S. Circuit Court

Types of Cases Handled

estate planning elder law

Legal Services Scope

Wills Trusts Mediation

Certifications & Awards

Certified Elder Law Lawyer

National Elder Law Foundation

Accredited Veterans Lawyer

Department of Veterans Affairs

Accredited Professional Mediator

New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators

Trained Collaborative Professional

Jersey Shore Collaborative Law Group

Professional Associations

Elder and Disability Law Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association

Chair 2010 - Current

New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators

has membership, Board of Directors 2010 - Current

New Jersey Collaborative Law Group

Founding has membership 2008 - Current

Elder Mediation Center of New Jersey

Founder 2008 - Current

Council of Advanced Practitioners of the National Academy of Elder Law Lawyers

Founding has membership 2002 - Current

Academy of Special Need Planners

Founding has membership 2000 - Current

Center for Guardianship Certification

National Certified Guardian 2000 - Current

New York State Bar Association

has membership 1984 - Current

New Jersey State Bar Association

has membership 1983 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 242 St. Paul Street Westfield NJ 07090

Videos

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NJ Guardianship Law 2017 (Video 1 of 5)
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NJ Guardianship Law 2017 (Video 1 of 5)
Long-Term Care Planning for NJ Residents 908-232-7400
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Long-Term Care Planning for NJ Residents 908-232-7400
Estate Planning for NJ Residents 908-232-7400
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Estate Planning for NJ Residents 908-232-7400
Disability Planning for NJ Residents 908-232-7400
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Disability Planning for NJ Residents 908-232-7400