Our Story

About Sterling & Associates Law

For over 25 years, we have been New York's trusted partner for individuals and businesses facing complex legal challenges. Our story is one of dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.

Our History

A Firm Built on Principle

Sterling & Associates Law was founded in 1999 by Margaret A. Sterling with a singular vision: to build a law firm where clients are treated as partners, not case numbers. Starting as a two-attorney boutique practice in Midtown Manhattan, the firm quickly earned a reputation for meticulous preparation, fearless advocacy, and results that spoke for themselves.

Through the early 2000s, the firm expanded its practice areas to meet the evolving needs of its growing client base — adding personal injury litigation, family law, and real estate counsel to its core corporate practice. Each new partner brought deep expertise and a shared commitment to the firm's founding values.

Today, Sterling & Associates Law operates from its flagship office at 123 Legal Avenue in New York City, serving clients across the five boroughs and beyond. What began as one attorney's vision has grown into a full-service firm of trusted counselors — but our founding principles remain unchanged.

1999

Year Founded

25+

Years of Excellence

500+

Cases Resolved

98%

Client Satisfaction

What Drives Us

Our Mission & Values

Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional legal representation with honesty, skill, and genuine care for every client we serve. These four values guide everything we do.

Integrity

We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards. Every recommendation we make, every action we take, is guided by honesty and transparency with our clients.

Client-First

Your goals are our goals. We invest the time to understand your unique situation and craft strategies that serve your best interests — not just the easiest path forward.

Excellence

Mediocrity has no place in our practice. We pursue the best possible outcome in every matter, combining rigorous preparation with creative legal thinking.

Community

We are proud members of the New York legal community. We give back through pro bono work, mentorship, and civic engagement — because justice should be accessible to all.

Meet the Team

Our Attorneys

Our attorneys combine decades of experience with a genuine passion for advocacy. Each brings specialized expertise and a shared commitment to your success.

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Margaret A. Sterling

Founding Partner

Corporate Law & Business Transactions

Margaret founded Sterling & Associates Law in 1999 after a distinguished career at a top-tier Manhattan firm. With over 30 years of experience, she has guided hundreds of businesses through complex transactions, mergers, and regulatory challenges. A graduate of Columbia Law School, Margaret is recognized annually in New York Super Lawyers and serves on the board of the New York State Bar Association.

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David R. Okafor

Senior Partner

Personal Injury & Civil Litigation

David joined the firm in 2004 and has since become one of New York's most formidable personal injury litigators. He has secured over $50 million in verdicts and settlements for accident victims, medical malpractice survivors, and wrongful death claimants. A Yale Law graduate, David is known for his tenacious courtroom advocacy and deep compassion for clients navigating the most difficult moments of their lives.

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Sophia L. Chen

Partner

Family Law & Real Estate

Sophia brings a dual expertise in family law and real estate to the firm, having joined in 2011. She handles sensitive divorce and custody matters with empathy and precision, while also advising clients on residential and commercial property transactions across the tri-state area. A NYU Law alumna, Sophia is fluent in Mandarin and serves a diverse clientele throughout New York City.

Ready to Work With Us?

Our attorneys are ready to listen to your situation and provide the strategic guidance you need. Schedule your free consultation today.

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