Mediators should strictly follow confidentiality rules in order to permit each side to reveal facts or circumstances of their case…to encourage the best possible evaluation of the issues.
- Joseph C. Tonetti, Esq.

Joseph C. Tonetti, Esq.

Mr. Tonetti emphasizes a practical approach to ADR, stressing the importance of pre-Mediation preparation by both sides in achieving the ultimate goal.

His 38 years of defense experience make him keenly aware of the “check list” nature of carrier evaluation and the time requirements inherent in the corporate structure regarding review and evaluation.

Having been a practicing plaintiff’s counsel as well during that time, Tonetti has experienced the challenges that create stress for Plaintiff’s counsel. He understands the importance of meeting the carrier’s needs as well as the ability to deal with typical issues that arise such as Medicare, ERISA, funding liens, etc. He strives to keep abreast of the latest developments and trends on both sides of litigation in an effort to foster greater understanding and cooperation between the parties while moving towards common ground.

Tonetti recognizes there are cases that are inherently difficult to settle but that a successful ADR company must be proactive in the pre-Mediation process to ensure that the litigants each understand their roles and responsibilities in the pre-Mediation preparation.

Mr. Tonetti has taught CLE courses to members of the Suffolk County Bar Association that have been targeted and designed to educate plaintiff’s counsel on the expectations of Mediators and Arbitrators in the ADR process. He has also taught courses on the needs that insurance carrier representatives and counsel have in order to move a case toward its successful resolution.

EXPERTISE

  • Personal Injury
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Wrongful Death
  • Products Liability

LOCATION

NY Metro

LEGAL EXPERIENCE

Manager and Owner, Joseph C. Tonetti, P.C. (2010 – Present)

Partner, Tonetti & Ambrosino Esqs. (2006 – 2009)

Partner, Hobbes & Tonetti, Esqs. (1983 – 2006)

Partner, Cordes & Tonetti, Esqs. (1981 – 1983)

Associate, Cordes, Purcesll, Fritz & Ingrao, P.C. (1980 – 1981)

Staff Attorney, Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County (1978 – 1980)

 

EDUCATION

New York School of Law, New York, J.D. (1978)

Rutgers University, New Jersey, B.A. (1972)

 

ADMISSIONS

New York State

 

MEMBERSHIPS

New York State Bar Association
Suffolk County Bar Association Nassau/Suffolk Trial Lawyers Association

 

HONORS & AWARDS

Suffolk Pro Bono Project, Pro Bono Attorney of the Month