Louisa Portnoy’s initial contact with the Joseph Law Group, P.C. was as a first-year law student.  Even at that early stage of her legal career, Louisa was laser focused on her goal of becoming a top divorce attorney.  She reached out to Managing Partner James Joseph, seeking an informational interview.  When we met, we were most impressed by her passion for this area of law, her maturity and her professionalism.  Louisa stayed in touch with the firm throughout law school.  Her grit was further evidenced when as a third-year law student, she was admitted to the highly selective New York Pro Bono Scholars Program. Not only was this program consistent with her desire to help others and have a positive impact, but it also allowed her to take (and pass) the bar exam while still in law school.

A top 11% cum laude graduate of Hofstra Law School, Louisa described her law school experience as friendly yet competitive. Not only did Louisa excel in her studies, but as a student she actively participated in clinics which gave her the opportunity to have client interaction and assist in legal matters.

Amongst other achievements, Louisa reached the Gold Level for Public Service hours during her time at Hofstra Law. She was also the recipient of a Juvenile Justice Scholarship upon graduation and was a member of the prestigious Hofstra Law Review, where an article of hers will be published in 2023.

Prior to Hofstra, Louisa attended the University of Delaware, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Human Services, Administration and Family Policy Concentration. Louisa initially wanted to be a social worker, to help families. It was not until she shadowed a Family Court Judge in Delaware, observing the passion certain lawyers had when advocating for their clients, that she realized being a divorce lawyer was her true calling. She explains that “being a divorce lawyer lets me help people while dovetailing with my natural skills as a strong advocate”.

Louisa is from Douglaston, New York. For fun, she enjoys visiting new restaurants throughout New York City with friends. She also enjoys vacationing with her family.

Education:

• Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University, Juris Doctor (2023)  
• University of Delaware, Bachelor of Science (2019)  

Awards:

• Juvenile Justice Scholarship recipient  
• Dean’s Honor Scholar  
• Dean’s List   

Professional Honors and Activities:

• Hofstra Law Review, Senior Associate Editor  
• Family Law Society  
• Women’s Society  
• Veterans Law Association  
• Dispute Resolution Society