By Jenna Lebovits
As the idyllic landscapes of the Hamptons continue to shift, few have had a closer seat than the Adam Miller Group. With over 50 years of combined legal experience, strong local ties and over $6 billion in real estate sales, the law firm is fiercely dedicated to shaping the region’s future while keeping its unique charm intact.
“Five years ago, the pandemic increased our transactions and our population grew,” says founder and managing partner Adam M. Miller. “Demand increased and resulted in subtle shifts—even impacting recent changes in code, which are intended to preserve the way of life that initially draws people to this beautiful part of the world. Our firm had to make sure we had expertise in all areas of the Hamptons, because there was activity everywhere.”
Miller and the team’s knowledge of land use runs deep, with two of the firm’s four attorneys previously serving on town and village legal teams. It’s this insider perspective that allows them to manage complex zoning and variances to landmark deals, like the waterfront Sag Harbor property that became the John Steinbeck Waterfront Park (near where the writer penned his final novel, The Winter of Our Discontent).
But the firm’s connection to the Hamptons runs deeper than real estate transactions. Miller himself is a passionate, active member of the community. “I currently sit on the housing board in East Hampton, where we are tasked with affordable housing initiatives,” says Miller. “I do this because the fabric of our community needs it.” The founder also works with the Bridgehampton Community House and is on the Southampton Hospital Foundation board of trustees.
Since 2007, the firm has grown organically through authentic local connections. One partner, Brian J. Locascio, started as an intern before heading to law school, and his lifelong personal connection to Southampton is now a cornerstone of the practice. Denise R. Schoen served as Sag Harbor’s village attorney, and Jameson McWilliams, once East Hampton’s assistant town attorney, drafted many of the codes the firm now helps clients interpret.
Whether advising clients on how a pollinator meadow might unlock a larger building footprint or making sure a property is preserved for generations, the firm approaches each project with precision and seamless collaboration. “The way our team works together is second to none,” says Miller. “The relationships we have with surveyors, zoning board members, building inspectors and other attorneys after years of practicing makes it possible for us to get it done, and get it done right.” adammillergroup.com