Hodgson Russ grows as we attract people with new perspectives and new ideas.

Partner and Practice Area Leader

Sujata Yalamanchili heads Hodgson Russ’s Real Estate, Finance & Bankruptcy Practice Area. She handles commercial real estate transactions, such as leasing, purchase and sale matters, and a broad range of development projects. Sujata previously served as chair of the firm’s Committee on Attorney Recruiting, Diversity, and Development as well as a member of its board of directors.

What do you contribute to the firm?

I address my client’s needs and the firm’s needs in a variety of ways. First, I maintain an active practice, serving clients’ needs. I also administer the Real Estate, Finance & Bankruptcy Practice Area, which includes mentoring others at the firm. I help my co-workers tackle difficult problems, and I provide them opportunities to succeed. I believe that collaboration and mentoring are essential to success.

What are some of the accomplishments you are most proud of during your time with the firm?

Over the course of my career, I've handled many transactions, large and small, of which I am very proud. I am most proud of the transactions that will have a lasting impact on the community, such as assisting with the development of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. I am also proud of the impact I’ve had on the firm’s strategic direction as a member of the firm’s board of directors and on the hiring, mentoring, and development of people throughout the firm.

How would you describe the culture of the firm?

At Hodgson Russ, there is a strong emphasis on problem solving, producing excellent work product, and respecting others.  We also continually strive to improve. As a consequence, we are open to new ideas. Hodgson Russ grows as we attract people with new perspectives and new ideas.

What is a quote you live by?

It’s a quote from Maya Angelou: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." I think this applies to the practice of law. What sets lawyers apart in the eyes of clients is not the law schools they attended or the grades they received; it is the results they achieve and the way they treat their clients and others. That is why I strive to distinguish myself as a results-oriented lawyer who treats people with respect.