About Richard Raphael
Richard Raphael Zayas is an attorney specializing in business law and insurance defense, boasting over four decades of experience. He is admitted to practice in both New York and New Jersey. This gives a broad legal foundation. His primary office is located in Stony Point, New York, where he leads the Law Offices of Richard R. Zayas, P.C. This firm serves clients, including private, public, and not-for-profit entities, reflecting his versatile legal expertise. Mr. Zayas earned his Juris Doctor from Yale Law School in 1981, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic environment.
Prior to this, he completed his undergraduate studies at Yale University, further solidifying his strong educational background. He has been a member of the New York State Bar since 1982, holding the bar identification number 1826452. His admission to the New Jersey bar also dates back to the same year — This lets the attorney navigate the legal fields of both states effectively. Throughout his career, Mr. Zayas has represented clients in various aspects of business law — His practice encompasses contracts, business formation, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. Each of these areas requires a understanding of the law, which he has honed over the years. Additionally, he provides counsel on insurance defense matters, leveraging his experience to navigate complex legal challenges that arise in this field. His ability to address multifaceted legal issues has made him a valuable resource for his clients.
Before establishing his own firm, Mr. Zayas served as managing partner in law firms across New York and New Jersey for approximately 15 years. During this time, he developed a reputation for his approach to legal problem-solving. He has also collaborated with the U.S. Small Business Administration, where he gained insights into the needs of small businesses. Furthermore, he held in-house counsel positions at AmeriChoice, Inc., UnitedHealth Group, and Health Quest Systems, Inc., which enriched his understanding of corporate legal matters. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Zayas is deeply committed to community service.
He is the founder of the not-for-profit organization, Wind Beneath My Wings, which focuses on supporting various charitable initiatives. This organization reflects his dedication to giving back to the community. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Mr. Zayas can effectively serve a diverse range of clients. He is also a member of the New York State Bar Association and the New Jersey State Bar Association. His experience and dedication to his clients have established him as a respected figure in the legal community, making a significant impact in both his professional and personal endeavors.
