On November 15, 2024, John Zervopoulos took the helm of the Hellenic Lawyers Association (HLA), a dynamic organization with a rich history and active members who consistently support their profession. His colleagues have honored him by selecting him as a Super Lawyer for many years. In his personal injury law practice, he also has extensive experience in Maritime Law, product liability, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and civil rights violations.
As the son of Greek immigrants, he experienced firsthand what it feels like to be the ‘different’ child, which cultivated his desire to stand up against bullies. “We represent many people who do not have a voice. They cannot fight for their rights alone because they lack the necessary resources. It is a challenge to stand up to insurance companies – they are the playground bullies of the adult world. This battle fuels my passion for my work.”
John Zervopoulos credits his love of life and strong family bonds with his ability to personally connect with his clients. “Every case is unique, and I approach them all the same way. Every story is heartbreaking, often involving a death or a life-altering injury. It is shameful that even when a death occurs, insurance companies try to shift the blame.”
In one such case, Zervopoulos helped a family obtain justice after losing parents and siblings in a fire. “I am still in touch with the surviving children as they grow up. They still call me for advice on various life issues. I feel proud that I was able to make a difference and positively impact their lives.”
Graduating cum laude from Long Island University with a degree in Psychology, he has a deep understanding of the stress caused by trauma. “Often, our clients are injured, unable to work, have bills to pay, and families to support. We stand by them through difficult times until we achieve the best outcome.”
He began at his law firm as an intern while attending Hofstra Law School. His work ethic and passion for law impressed the firm, which hired him as an associate immediately after graduation. From the very beginning, he knew he had found both the profession that expressed him and the law firm where he would build his career. He was soon promoted to partner.
John Zervopoulos is highly active in various organizations and communities. In addition to being the president of HLA of New York, he is a board member of the Nassau-Suffolk Trial Lawyers Association, and a volunteer Arbitrator at the Queens County Civil Court. He frequently lectures at professional organizations throughout New York State and proudly mentors and advises law students as they face their own challenges.
The National Herald wholeheartedly wishes him success in his new role and in achieving his goals to further promote and enhance HLA – one of the best and most well-organized associations of the Greek-American community.
Q&A
The National Herald: What is your main vision for the Hellenic Lawyers Association during your tenure as president?
John Zervopoulos: My primary goal is to strengthen relationships within the Greek-American legal community while increasing our visibility and influence in the broader legal world. I want to expand mentorship programs, provide more networking opportunities, and create initiatives that support Greek-American lawyers at all career stages. By building a stronger and more active association, we can make a difference – not only for our members but also for the larger Greek-American community.
TNH: What are the biggest legal challenges facing Greek-American lawyers and the broader community today?
JZ: Like many minority groups in the legal profession, Greek-American lawyers face challenges related to adequate representation. We must ensure that our voices are heard, especially in leadership roles within the profession. For the broader community, access to legal resources and understanding their rights remain key issues. Many Greek-Americans need legal assistance with immigration matters, inheritance issues in Greece, disputes over property owned by relatives in Greece, or legal guidance on successfully navigating New York’s laws.
TNH: How do you see the role of the Greek-American legal community evolving in the U.S. legal landscape?
JZ: We are seeing more Greek-American lawyers stepping into leadership roles in law firms, government, and the judiciary. This is very positive, and I want us to continue on this path. Our legal community possesses the knowledge, experience, and cultural values that make us strong advocates for justice, and I believe we will continue to grow and influence various sectors of the legal world.
TNH: Are there any specific legal issues or policy initiatives that the Association will focus on promoting in the near future?
JZ: We are focusing on building relationships with other Greek-Americans within and outside the legal community. These relationships unite people, enabling them to collaborate toward common goals, fostering a sense of belonging, and facilitating problem-solving by building trust and communication channels among Greek-Americans. Ultimately, this leads to a stronger and more resilient community.
TNH: What steps can be taken to ensure better representation of Greek-Americans in leadership roles within the legal profession?
JZ: The Greek-American community is crucial for ensuring our strength and representation. We must actively support and encourage each other, providing assistance where it is most needed. It is essential to ensure that young Greek-American lawyers and law students have the necessary skills, experiences, and networks to advance into senior positions.
TNH: How does the Association support young Greek-American lawyers, law students, and recent graduates entering the legal field?
JZ: We are particularly proud of the Emerging Lawyers Committee, created specifically for law students, recent graduates, and young lawyers, aimed at promoting opportunities and fostering connections for the next generation of legal professionals. The committee offers one-on-one mentorship programs, resume-writing workshops, mock interviews, and networking opportunities with judges and partners from major law firms across various legal fields. We are especially proud of our annual scholarship program. Just last year, we raised and awarded fifteen scholarships to law students.
TNH: Have you planned initiatives to promote mentorship and networking among Greek-American legal professionals?
JZ: Absolutely. One of my key priorities is expanding the mentorship program so that experienced lawyers, like myself, can guide law students and young attorneys. We are also planning more networking events to bring people together in ways that encourage meaningful professional and personal connections – whether through professional panels, social gatherings, or business development events.
TNH: How does the Greek-American legal community contribute to broader Greek cultural and business initiatives in the U.S.?
JZ: Greek-American lawyers play a crucial role in supporting Greek businesses, nonprofit organizations, and cultural events. Whether by providing legal counsel to Greek businesses, supporting Greek cultural events, or advocating for policies that benefit our community, our contribution is multifaceted. We are proud to help the Greek-American community thrive.
TNH: What message would you like to send to young Greek-Americans who aspire to become lawyers and see you as a role model?
JZ: Stay true to yourself, work hard, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The legal profession is demanding, but if you stay focused and build a strong network, you will find your path to success. And once you establish yourself, remember to give back to the community – help the next generation of Greek-American lawyers find their way.
TNH: What does it mean to you to be a lawyer of Greek descent?
JZ: Being a lawyer of Greek descent means carrying with pride the fundamental values of Greek culture, as taught to me by my parents, who were born in Greece – values such as integrity, resilience, dedication, hard work, justice, perseverance, and commitment to fairness. I strive to incorporate these principles into everything I do – both as a lawyer and as a leader. It is an honor to serve the legal profession and our Community.