About Us

About Us

Sometimes bigger is better―like when it comes to roller coasters, white-sand beaches, and fireworks on the Fourth of July.

But bigger is not better when negotiating complex contracts or resolving complicated business disputes. Then, smarter is better. A smarter law firm makes its clients’ goals its own, finds extraordinary ways to solve challenging problems, and manages the details but always keeps the big picture in mind. A smarter firm staffs each case with a tight, committed, and driven team that knows that “good enough” is never enough.

At Bernkopf, we see the big picture; we take the long view. Our real estate, business, and litigation lawyers strategically consider the broader perspective so they can find more solutions to any given problem. This strategy enables us to get the deals done more quickly and efficiently, with less waste. We move as fast as the clients, and we’re a size that keeps us nimble.

If you’re looking for smarter, we have good news.
You’ve found Bernkopf.

Small Firm. Big Results.

Bernkopf has helped clients achieve superb results, close innumerable transactions, and solve high-stakes real estate, business, and litigation problems for over a century. Our clients tell us that they value our practical, straightforward insight. We have earned a reputation for offering the pedigree and expertise of a large firm, with the agility and personalized service of a small boutique.

Bernkopf has an impressive track record of success that spans real estate development, construction, surety, corporate structure, mergers and acquisitions, employee relations, bankruptcy, civil litigation, and regulatory compliance, including zoning and environmental matters.

Need proof? Keep reading.

In Bernkopf We Trust

One entrepreneurial real estate developer understood that a successful business requires innovative, resourceful thinking. So, when he needed a law firm to manage the legal affairs of his fast-growing company, a friend recommended Bernkopf. Today, we serve as a “one-stop-shop” for all of his real estate development, handling complex business and legal matters including leasing, financing, and litigation:

“I have enormous trust in my Bernkopf team. Of course, the attorneys have sharp legal minds, but I also count on them for savvy, creative advice that helps grow my business. I use them as sounding boards, and I value their counsel on new deals and ventures.”

That client also notes the firm’s unmatched personal service:

“I always feel at ease with Bernkopf―there’s no pretense or gatekeeping. I have full and direct access to my lawyers, which unfortunately has become pretty uncommon among top law firms.”

Even after 20+ years, Bernkopf remains this client’s law firm of choice:

“I’ll never use another law firm. Bernkopf lawyers and I share similar values, and I have complete faith that they’ll get the job done right.”

Over a hundred years of originality

Bernkopf ranks among Boston’s oldest and most respected firms. Our roots trace back to Abraham K. Cohen, who was admitted to the Suffolk bar in 1894. The firm was established when Cohen formed a partnership with his son-in-law, Max E. Bernkopf. As their success grew, Bernkopf quickly gained a reputation for being aggressive, practical, and cost-effective. Today, these core values remain the hallmarks of our firm.

Bernkopf represents clients across the full spectrum of commercial real estate and business transactions, as well as complex litigation. Since the late 19th century, we have applied both skill and ingenuity to address our clients’ vast business and legal needs. As a result, we have built life-long relationships with many clients who routinely turn to us for our creative, straightforward counsel. Our many contacts in finance, banking, construction, and development rely on us to find bold solutions and achieve results others cannot. We are proud of these bonds and look forward to the next generations of client success.

 

Deep Boston Roots

Our attorneys and staff engage in civic and philanthropic endeavors that help the needy and make Greater Boston a better place.

Many Bernkopf attorneys serve as board and committee members for local towns, educational institutions, and charitable organizations. From the performing arts to energy conservation to local and national health organizations, the causes we address are broad. Yet, our mission is clear―to be an advocate for the people and communities where we work and live, including:

  • American Cancer Society
  • Barry L. Price Rehabilitation Center
  • Children’s Hospital Boston
  • Dedham Education Foundation
  • Dedham Special Education Parent Advisory Council
  • Dedham Youth Hockey
  • East Boston Savings Bank: Charitable Foundation
  • Greater Boston Legal Services
  • Heading Home
  • Junior League of Boston
  • Massachusetts Pension Reserves Investment Management (PRIM) Board
  • National MS Society
  • NE500/501 Giving Circle
  • New England Center for Children
  • New England Center for Homeless Veterans
  • Perkins School for the Blind
  • St. Thomas More School
  • Starlight Children’s Foundation
  • The Jimmy Fund
  • The John Thomas and Special Friends Fund
  • Tina’s Wish
  • Town of Dedham
  • Town of Dover
  • Town of Easton
  • Town of Medford
  • Town of Sharon