Constantina Papageorgiou is a partner in Vishnick McGovern Milizio’s Wills, Trusts, and Estates and Elder Law practices.
She assists individuals and their families with asset protection and long-term care planning through various planning techniques. She also provides legal counsel to individuals and families with the administration of estates and liquidation of a deceased’s assets. Additionally, she helps clients navigate the complex legal landscapes of guardianship and Medicaid.
Her passionate advocacy for her clients and sharp business acumen have made her the youngest partner in the firm’s history. She has been named a Best Lawyers “One to Watch,” Super Lawyers “Rising Star,” Long Island Herald “Top Lawyers of Long Island Rising Star,” and one of Long Island Business News’ “Top 50 Women in Business.”
Papageorgiou is heavily involved with her community and regularly hosts free webinars on estate planning for young families and older individuals with various organizations.
She is a board member of the Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee, an officer of the Hellenic Lawyers Association, and a board member of the St. Demetrios of Astoria Alumni Association.
How do you define success?
I like to set different goals, some more reachable than others, every few years. I then work hard to reach them–each one is a victory, whether small or large. If I feel that I’ve given it my all, I consider it a success.
What is the best advice you have received that has made an impact on your business?
Do it because you LOVE it, not because you want to make money. Your knowledge and compassion clearly show to your colleagues and clients when you enjoy what you do.
What drives you to succeed?
First and foremost, I’m driven to succeed to provide for my children, my husband, and my family. I’m also driven by the desire to make my parents proud and to show them that their hard work has paid off. They both came here as refugees from Northern Cyprus, without any money and without knowing the language. They worked, and continue to work, endlessly in our family’s restaurant to provide for us and to secure our future, so that we and our children can be “even more successful” than they are. They’re my inspiration.
What are the most significant challenges you have as a woman in your industry?
Like every working mother, it’s the struggle to find a balance between my different roles in life: mother, wife, daughter, law firm partner, and practicing attorney. It’s a constant juggling act.
But I’ve been extremely lucky both at home and at work, being surrounded by people who support me and see my success as their own. Being named a “Woman of Distinction” is great validation that all the hard work is paying off.
