Here at Dasti & Staiger, our work is close to home– literally. Many of our attorneys have roots in the area, and we take pride in serving our neighbors across Ocean County and New Jersey at large.
For Attorney Brigit Zahler, practicing law where she grew up provides a sense of purpose that fuels her in her work. “The most rewarding and motivating thing about practicing law is being able to work in the town that I grew up in and help people I know personally or who have been referred to us by a friend,” she said.
That personal investment is shared across the firm. Partner Lauren Staiger reflected on the strength of the local relationships she has forged here: “I take pride in being a client’s go-to person for questions and guidance, knowing they feel I am someone they can trust.”
On top of practicing in our own community, the firm also represents local public entity and municipal clients. Staiger finds this work especially meaningful. “It’s a difficult existence of which many are unaware,” she explained. “I try to help my clients navigate these issues by understanding not only the legal principles but also the public needs.”
Zahler echoed this sentiment, revealing how it feels to witness these clients at work. “I often hear people complain about what their local governments aren’t doing for them, and it is very satisfying to see how much work our elected officials and public employees actually do for their townships and citizens on a daily basis,” she said.
Regardless of the client, practicing within your own area demands unique discipline and objectivity as a lawyer. As Attorney William Oxley shared, “An essential focus of mine when working on a client’s case is to remain neutral in my emotions so that my clients can be given the best possible defense or prosecution of their case.”
In addition to our legal work, our attorneys volunteer, sponsor, and serve in leadership roles locally. Managing Partner Christopher J. Dasti’s recent appointment to the District Ethics Committee reflects Dasti & Staiger’s high standards on behalf of Ocean County.
For our attorneys, this community is more than just our location– it is our motivation. We are honored to work alongside the people that shape our area and remain committed to serving our neighbors with professionalism and pride.