Careers

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Careers at Gitto & Niefer, LLP

Gitto & Niefer, LLP is a litigation-focused New York workers’ compensation defense firm that values professional excellence and sustainability in practice. Our attorneys develop strong advocacy skills while maintaining time for meaningful pursuits outside the law.

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Professional Development
Life Outside the Law
Quality of Life
Regional and City Access
Opportunities

Attorneys receive early and substantive responsibility designed to accelerate professional growth and develop practical litigation skills from the outset of their careers, including:

  • Appearances before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board
  • Participation in hearings, trials, depositions, and motion practice
  • Claim analysis, legal research, and legal writing
  • Evaluation of medical records, expert reports, and litigation strategy
  • Direct interaction with clients, carriers, employers, and claims professionals
  • Negotiation of settlements and resolution strategies
  • Preparation of witnesses and hearing materials

Our attorneys are encouraged to take an active role in case development and client service while working closely with experienced practitioners who provide guidance, mentorship, and practical training.

Because of the volume and pace of workers’ compensation litigation, attorneys develop meaningful courtroom and client-management experience early in their careers. Associates are given opportunities to build confidence, exercise professional judgment, and develop into effective, independent advocates.

The firm recognizes that long-term professional success depends on balance, perspective, and the ability to maintain meaningful interests outside the practice of law. While our attorneys are committed to delivering high-quality legal representation, we also believe that a sustainable legal career should allow time for family, personal development, athletics, community involvement, and outside pursuits.

Attorneys at the firm actively maintain significant interests beyond the office. Among our partners:

  • One coached a girls’ basketball team to a New York State high school championship
  • Another is an active marathon runner who regularly participates in long-distance events
  • Two others serve as adjunct professors at major four-year American colleges

The firm encourages attorneys to remain engaged in the communities where they live and work and recognizes that professional growth is strengthened by experiences outside the practice of law.

Our structure is designed to support long-term career sustainability rather than a culture of constant burnout. Attorneys are encouraged to pursue personal interests, remain involved with family activities, participate in athletics and civic organizations, and maintain the flexibility necessary to build rewarding personal and professional lives.

For younger attorneys considering long-term career paths, we believe it is possible to develop sophisticated litigation skills, meaningful client relationships, and substantial courtroom experience while still maintaining balance outside the office.

Our offices in Binghamton and New Hartford also provide attorneys with the advantages of Upstate New York living, including short commute times, family-oriented communities, outdoor recreation, and convenient access to larger metropolitan areas including Syracuse, Albany, and New York City.

Life in the Binghamton and Utica (New Hartford) regions provides attorneys and staff with the opportunity to build meaningful professional careers while maintaining a high quality of life outside the office.

Upstate New York is particularly conducive to raising a family and maintaining long-term balance, offering:

  • Short commute times
  • Accessible schools and community resources
  • A cost of living supportive of long-term stability

Unlike larger metropolitan markets where lengthy commutes and high living expenses can dominate daily life, attorneys in our offices are able to maintain rewarding legal careers while still having meaningful time outside of work.

The region also offers extensive outdoor and recreational opportunities throughout the year, including hiking, running, golf, skiing, cycling, fishing, boating, and other seasonal activities. The surrounding areas of Upstate New York provide convenient access to parks, lakes, trails, and outdoor destinations that support an active lifestyle.

For attorneys seeking a long-term professional home, the Southern Tier, Central New York, and Mohawk Valley regions provide the ability to practice sophisticated law in a collegial environment without sacrificing quality of life, personal interests, or family priorities.

Attorneys at the firm benefit from the advantages of practicing in Upstate New York while still maintaining convenient access to major metropolitan areas throughout the Northeast.

Our offices in Binghamton and Utica (New Hartford) are centrally located within driving distance of several major cities, including Syracuse, Albany, and New York City providing access to additional professional, cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities throughout the region.

New York City is approximately three hours by car from Binghamton, allowing attorneys and their families to enjoy convenient access to Times Square, the theater district, professional sporting events, museums, restaurants, concerts, and other world-class attractions for day trips, weekends, or extended visits.

The location of our offices also allows attorneys to maintain connections to larger legal and business markets without the daily pressures commonly associated with practicing in major metropolitan areas. Attorneys are able to enjoy sophisticated legal practice and meaningful client work while benefiting from the accessibility, affordability, and lifestyle advantages of Upstate New York.

This regional accessibility provides younger attorneys and professionals with the flexibility to pursue both professional advancement and personal interests while remaining connected to the broader cultural and economic opportunities available throughout New York State and the Northeast.

Law Students and New Attorneys

The firm provides law students and newer attorneys with substantial hands-on experience early in their careers. Attorneys are given meaningful responsibility and direct exposure to litigation, client interaction, and courtroom practice from the outset.

Opportunities include:

  • Appearances before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board
  • Participation in hearings, depositions, and case preparation
  • Legal research, writing, and motion practice
  • Direct interaction with clients, carriers, and claims professionals
  • Mentorship from experienced workers’ compensation defense attorneys

Because of the pace and volume of the practice, younger attorneys are able to develop practical litigation skills, confidence, and professional judgment far earlier than is often possible in larger institutional environments.

The firm is committed to long-term professional development and provides attorneys with the training, support, and experience necessary to build sustainable and rewarding legal careers.

Experienced Attorneys

Experienced attorneys are provided with the opportunity to maintain sophisticated legal practices while working within a collaborative and professionally supportive environment.

The firm values initiative, professionalism, and independent judgment, and offers:

  • Meaningful responsibility and autonomy
  • Direct client relationships and case management opportunities
  • A collegial and team-oriented work environment
  • Opportunities for mentorship and leadership
  • Long-term professional growth within a stable and established practice

Experienced practitioners are encouraged to continue developing their practices, contribute to the growth of the firm, and maintain professional and personal balance while handling sophisticated workers’ compensation litigation matters throughout New York State.

How to Apply

Interested candidates may submit a resume and relevant materials using the contact form below.

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Shane Eaton Armstrong

Partner | 607-723-0600 ext. 118 (o) | 607-251-1093 (d)

Shane Eaton Armstrong is a partner at Gitto & Niefer, LLP whose practice focuses on representing employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities in workers’ compensation matters throughout New York State. In addition to her workers’ compensation practice, Ms. Armstrong has developed substantial experience in Social Security Disability matters, providing clients with practical guidance regarding the intersection of disability and employment-related claims.

Ms. Armstrong earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Marquette University in 2002. Following graduation, she served as a Medical Services Corps Officer of the United States Army from 2002 through 2007, at the rank of Captain.  During her military service, she was stationed in Germany, Iraq, and Italy, gaining leadership experience and serving in a variety of challenging operational environments.

After completing her military service, Ms. Armstrong attended Drexel University School of Law, earning her Juris Doctor degree in 2010. Upon graduation, she began her legal career with Gitto & Niefer, LLP, where she has continued to build a practice focused on workers’ compensation defense and related disability issues.

Throughout her career, Ms. Armstrong has represented employers and insurance carriers in a broad range of workers’ compensation matters, including claim establishment disputes, medical and indemnity issues, permanency litigation, and procedural matters before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. She is known for providing responsive and practical representation tailored to the needs of clients navigating the New York workers’ compensation system.

Ms. Armstrong has also maintained a longstanding commitment to professional, civic, and community service. Since 2016, she has served as a Director on the Board of the Broome County Bar Association and served as its President from 2025-2026. Her involvement with the Bar Association has included leadership roles in programs and initiatives designed to support both the legal profession and the local community.

An active volunteer with Legal Aid since 2011, Ms. Armstrong has regularly provided pro bono representation in landlord-tenant matters through the Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York. She has also chaired a Veteran’s Law Clinic and Law Day programming, reflecting her continued commitment to veterans’ issues and community legal education.

Ms. Armstrong has served as a Guardian for Honor Flights for the Southern Tier of New York and has presented publicly on a variety of topics. Her presentations have included “American Women in Combat” for Broome Women Lead and “The Power of Female Relationships” at the Broome County Chamber of Commerce Women’s Conference & Expo.

Outside of her legal practice, Ms. Armstrong remains active in youth athletics and community initiatives. She serves as a youth basketball coach and a running ambassador, reflecting her commitment to mentorship, teamwork, and community engagement.

Ms. Armstrong is known for her disciplined, practical, and client-focused approach to workers’ compensation and disability-related representation.

Patrick B. Guy

Partner | 607-723-0600 ext. 105 (o) | 607-251-1092 (d)

Patrick B. Guy is a partner at Gitto & Niefer, LLP whose practice focuses on representing employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities in workers’ compensation matters throughout New York State. With decades of experience in workers’ compensation defense, Mr. Guy provides practical and responsive representation to clients navigating the complexities of the New York workers’ compensation system.

A native of Binghamton, New York, Mr. Guy earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Union College in 1990. He subsequently received his Juris Doctor degree from Pepperdine University School of Law in 1993.

Mr. Guy is admitted to practice law in New York and is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the Broome County Bar Association. Throughout his legal career, he has represented employers and carriers in a wide variety of workers’ compensation matters, including claim establishment disputes, medical and indemnity issues, permanency litigation, and procedural matters before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.

Mr. Guy has remained active in professional education and developments within the workers’ compensation field. He has attended conferences and programs sponsored by the New York State Association of Self-Insured Counties as well as the New York Workers’ Compensation Centennial Conference, reflecting his continued interest in developments affecting employers, insurers, and public entities within the workers’ compensation system.

Known for his practical approach and steady advocacy, Mr. Guy works closely with employers, claims professionals, and insurance carriers to provide efficient and effective representation tailored to the needs of each client and claim.

Outside of his legal practice, Mr. Guy remains active in the community and participates in community hockey, golf and cross-fit reflecting his longstanding interest in athletics, teamwork, and local involvement.

John H. Snyder

Partner | 315-732-8661 (o)

John H. Snyder is an experienced workers’ compensation defense attorney whose practice focuses on representing employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities throughout New York State. Recognized for his leadership within the workers’ compensation bar and his extensive involvement in both professional and community organizations, Mr. Snyder has developed a reputation for practical and knowledgeable advocacy in complex workers’ compensation matters.

Born in Albany, New York, Mr. Snyder graduated from Utica University in 1995. He subsequently earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Dayton School of Law in 1998.

Mr. Snyder is admitted to practice law in New York and is also admitted before the United States Supreme Court. He currently serves as Chair of the Workers’ Compensation Division of the Torts, Insurance and Compensation Law Section of the New York State Bar Association, reflecting his active involvement in shaping and discussing developments within New York workers’ compensation law and practice.

A frequent lecturer on workers’ compensation issues, Mr. Snyder regularly presents on topics affecting employers, carriers, claims professionals, and attorneys practicing within the workers’ compensation system. He has developed particular experience and specialization in third party claims, loss transfer and lien recovery as well as the preparation and analysis of Medicare Set-Asides, assisting clients in addressing the complex interaction between workers’ compensation settlements and federal Medicare compliance requirements.

In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Snyder serves as an Adjunct Professor and Trustee at Utica University, demonstrating his longstanding commitment to education and professional development. His civic and community involvement includes serving as President of the Utica Industrial Development Corporation and Vice-President of the Utica Lady Knicks youth basketball organization.  Mr. Snyder Coaches the Utica-Notre Dame High School Varsity Girls basketball team.  The team won the 2024 New York State Championship and competed in the 2026 New York State Finals.

Mr. Snyder also serves as a Board member of Mohawk Valley EDGE, Notre Dame Schools, and St. Agnes Cemetery. Through these roles, he has remained actively involved in initiatives supporting economic development, education, youth athletics, and community organizations throughout the Mohawk Valley region.

Jason M. Carlton

Managing Partner | 607-723-0600 ext. 104 (o) | 607-251-1082 (d)

Jason M. Carlton is the Managing Partner of Gitto & Niefer, LLP and an experienced workers’ compensation defense attorney whose practice focuses on representing employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities throughout New York State. In his role as Managing Partner, Mr. Carlton oversees the firm’s operations, strategic direction, and continued commitment to providing responsive and high-quality representation to clients throughout New York State. He is recognized for his extensive appellate experience, litigation background, and longstanding involvement in professional and community organizations.

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Mr. Carlton earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Northwestern College in Iowa before obtaining his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 2000.

Mr. Carlton is admitted to practice law in both New York and Pennsylvania. Throughout his legal career, he has handled a broad range of workers’ compensation matters involving complex legal, medical, and procedural issues before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board and appellate courts.

A significant portion of Mr. Carlton’s practice has involved appellate advocacy. He has handled more than seventy-five cases before the New York State Appellate Division and has argued successfully before the New York State Court of Appeals. His appellate experience has contributed to the development and interpretation of New York workers’ compensation law and reflects his depth of experience in handling complex and precedent-setting legal issues.

Mr. Carlton is also the author of the chapter addressing “Apportionment” in the New York State Bar Association publication entitled “Workers’ Compensation Law and Practice in New York State.” His work on this publication reflects his recognized knowledge in the area of apportionment and permanency issues within the New York workers’ compensation system.

In addition to his litigation and appellate practice, Mr. Carlton has presented on numerous workers’ compensation-related topics to conferences, businesses, insurance professionals, and trade associations. His presentations have focused on developments in workers’ compensation law, litigation strategy, and issues affecting employers and carriers throughout New York State.

Mr. Carlton has also maintained a strong commitment to civic and community involvement. He previously served as Chairman of the Binghamton Salvation Army Advisory Board and currently serves as a Board Member for Vestal Little League. He remains active in his church and community organizations. Since 2024 he has served as the Chancellor for the Anglican Diocese of the Living Word, and volunteers much of his time to advising his church on both civil and canon law matters.

A past President of the Broome County Bar Association, Mr. Carlton has been recognized for his professional and community service by his peers within the legal profession. In 2018, he received the Stanley B. Reiter Award from the Broome County Bar Association in recognition of his extraordinary service to the Association and the legal community.

As Managing Partner, Mr. Carlton continues to focus on maintaining the firm’s longstanding reputation for practical, strategic, and responsive representation while guiding the firm’s continued growth and development within the workers’ compensation defense field.

Mr. Carlton is known for providing practical, strategic, and responsive representation to employers and insurance professionals navigating the complexities of New York workers’ compensation law.

Edmond F. Morreall

Assistant Managing Partner | 607-723-0600 ext. 103 (o) | 607-251-1081 (d)

Edmond F. Morreall is an experienced workers’ compensation defense attorney and serves as Assistant Managing Partner of Gitto & Niefer, LLP. His practice focuses on representing employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities throughout New York State in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation and counseling. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Morreall plays a significant role in the firm’s administration, operations, and long-term strategic development.

Born in Rome, New York, Mr. Morreall earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Brigham Young University in 1994, majoring in both Korean and International Relations. His academic background reflects a longstanding interest in international affairs, communication, and public policy. He subsequently earned his Juris Doctor degree from Cornell Law School in 1998, where he concentrated in Public Law and specialized in International Legal Affairs.

Throughout his legal career, Mr. Morreall has represented employers and carriers in a wide range of workers’ compensation matters, including claim establishment disputes, medical and indemnity issues, permanency litigation, and complex procedural matters before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. He is known for providing practical guidance and responsive representation tailored to the needs of employers, claims professionals, and insurance carriers navigating the New York workers’ compensation system.

Mr. Morreall has also been actively involved in professional education within the workers’ compensation field. He has presented at numerous conferences and seminars addressing developments in New York workers’ compensation law and practice. In addition, he currently serves as an adjunct instructor at Boston University School of Public Health.  He teaches a graduate-level course in Leadership and Management for the Department of Health Law, Policy & Management.

Outside of his legal practice, Mr. Morreall has maintained a strong commitment to community and youth development initiatives. He is active in his local church and community organizations and has devoted substantial time to leadership and mentoring activities involving youth programs.

An Eagle Scout, Mr. Morreall previously served as President of the Baden-Powell Council of the Boy Scouts of America and as a member of its Executive Board. In recognition of his distinguished service and leadership within scouting, he received the Silver Beaver Award, one of the organization’s highest honors for volunteer service.

David L. Niefer

607-723-0600 ext. 102 (o) | 607-251-1077 (d)

David L. Niefer is a workers’ compensation defense attorney with extensive experience representing employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities throughout New York State. His practice focuses on the defense of complex workers’ compensation claims, including litigation involving medical causation issues, permanency disputes, occupational disease claims, and interpretation and application of evolving Workers’ Compensation Board regulations and treatment standards.

Born in Ithaca, New York, Mr. Niefer attended The Hill School before earning his undergraduate degree in political science from George Washington University in 1988. He subsequently earned his Juris Doctor degree from Syracuse University College of Law in 1994.

Mr. Niefer is admitted to practice law in both New York and Pennsylvania. He is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the Broome County Bar Association.

Throughout his career, Mr. Niefer has remained actively involved in developments affecting New York workers’ compensation practice and has presented on significant regulatory and procedural topics impacting employers and carriers, including changes to the Medical Treatment Guidelines and implementation of the New York State Workers’ Compensation Drug Formulary. His presentations have focused on helping clients and claims professionals understand the practical implications of regulatory changes within the workers’ compensation system.

In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Niefer has maintained a longstanding commitment to community and civic involvement. He previously served as Chair of the United Way of Broome County campaign and currently serves on the Board of the Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP).

Outside of his legal practice, Mr. Niefer has a lifelong interest in the study of history, particularly modern Italian history. His interest was shaped in part by the experiences of three generations of Italian immigrants within his family and continues to inform his appreciation for cultural history, immigration, and social development.

Mr. Niefer is known for providing practical, thoughtful, and responsive representation to employers and insurance professionals navigating the complexities of New York workers’ compensation law.