Perspectives Article

Where are they now?

Robin Bikkal '82
Bedford, NY
Senior Partner
Silverman, Bikkal &
Sandberg, LLP

Robin Bikkal spent 10 years working for the New York State epartment of Taxation and Finance in the position of District Tax Attorney and Appraiser while simultaneously developing her private immigration practice. In 2001 she started a firm with her husband, retired N.Y.S. Supreme Court Justice Donald N. Silverman. She focuses her practice on immigration and nationality law.

Describe a typical day in your current position. "My practice is devoted to immigration and nationality law. I confer with clients about half of the day. When I am not seeing clients, I am preparing cases for filing, including appeals and trials, and managing the office the rest of the time."

Why did you decide to go into immigration and nationality law?
"It suits my personality. I speak four languages. I grew up abroad in Spain and Italy, so I feel an affinity for immigrants. I get great satisfaction in successfully helping immigrants acquire lawful status in this country.

If you could teach a law school course what would it be?
"Immigration law. I take a very practical approach to the practice of immigration law. It's important to connect the law to your client's needs and goals."

What is your best memory from the School of Law?
"Trusts and Estates was probably my favorite class. We had a great class and visiting professor John Weaver was a wonderful instructor. I enjoyed my work as editor of our
senior yearbook and coordinated the school's basketball tournament. Volleyball is my favorite sport, so in addition to playing the sport, I ran the volleyball program for the
School of Law."