Betty J. Potenza, Attorney

Betty (nee Place) Potenza was born and raised in Poughkeepsie, NY, in the Mid-Hudson Valley. After graduating from Our Lady of Lourdes High School, in Poughkeepsie, NY, she began her legal career as a paralegal with the Law Office of Stewart T. Schantz, P.C., in Highland, NY, a firm practicing in banking law, matrimonial and family law matters, wills and estates, and appeals. Betty obtained her Paralegal Certificate through the Marist College Paralegal Program. Over the years, Betty worked towards her goal of becoming an attorney, and completed her undergraduate degree through SUNY Empire State College, New Paltz Division, majoring in sociology and psychology.

After receiving her undergraduate degree, Betty attended Pace University School of Law in White Plains, NY. Following her graduation from law school in 1995, Betty was admitted to practice law in the State of New York, the United States District Courts of the Northern and Southern Districts of New York, and the United States Supreme Court.

Betty continued to work as an attorney with the Schantz firm, then specializing in matrimonial and family law matters, wills and estates, and general litigation practice. From 1999-2007, she worked for the law office of Robert P. Ianelli, a law firm in Southern Dutchess, representing plaintiffs in personal injury matters, including automobile accidents, construction accidents, motorcycle accidents, medical malpractice, and negligence. She has worked with the Law Office of Peter D. Hoffman, P.C. since 2007.

Betty has also served as an Adjunct Law Professor of Wills, Trusts & Estates for the Marist College Paralegal Program, Poughkeepsie, NY; acted as a Private Tutor for Literacy Connections, Poughkeepsie, NY; and served as a tax preparer and taught tax courses through H & R Block, in Poughkeepsie, NY.

She is currently a member of the New York State and Ulster County Bar Associations.

When she is not working, Betty enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and engaging in her hobbies, including traveling, photography and hiking.