News
January 16, 2026Mackenzie Kesterke and Laura Gulfo Promoted to Partner at Monaco Cooper Lamme & Carr, PLLC
Monaco Cooper Lamme & Carr, PLLC (MCLC) is proud to announce the promotion of attorneys, Mackenzie E. Kesterke and Laura M. Gulfo, to partner.
Both attorneys have played integral roles in the firm’s continued growth, earning the trust of clients through exceptional legal skill, sound judgment, and a results-driven approach to complex matters. Their promotions reflect MCLC’s strategic investment in attorneys who consistently deliver sophisticated counsel, demonstrate strong leadership within the firm, and support the firm’s overall culture.
“Mack and Laura are outstanding attorneys whose work exemplifies the highest standards of our profession,” said Mackenzie Monaco, Partner at MCLC. “They are deeply respected by clients and colleagues alike for their legal acumen, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to achieving excellent outcomes. As exceptional as they are as attorneys, they are even better people, and I am proud to call them my partners.”
Throughout their careers at MCLC, Ms. Kesterke and Ms. Gulfo have distinguished themselves through thoughtful advocacy, collaboration across practice areas, and a dedication to client service that strengthens long-term relationships. Their elevation to Partner is a natural progression and an important step in the firm’s long-term leadership strategy.
“Mack and Laura’s promotion underscores our commitment to recognizing attorneys who meaningfully contribute to the firm’s success and to our clients’ confidence in us,” added Jake Lamme, Partner. “They embody the principles that have defined MCLC since its founding and will play key roles in guiding the firm’s future.”
Mackenzie E. Kesterke provides expert legal counsel in litigation and personal injury matters, including those involving construction, product liability, and professional liability, specifically medical malpractice defense. She practices in state, federal, and appellate courts throughout New York State.
Prior to joining MCLC, Mack was an attorney at a private practice firm in Albany. She was also of counsel for the New York State Law Enforcement Officers Union, Council 82, AFSCME, AFL-CIO and had interned at the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office and with the Honorable Spencer Ludington in Oswego County Surrogate’s Court.
Mack is recognized in The Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch and Super Lawyers Rising Stars. She earned her law degree from Albany Law School of Union University Law School, and her B.S. from The College at Brockport, State University of New York, with a dual degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology, cum laude.
Laura M. Gulfo has a diverse transactional practice where she works closely with individuals, businesses, governmental entities, and public authorities in matters involving bonds, contracts, procurements, labor and employment, real estate, real property, and tax certiorari matters. Beyond transactional work, Laura represents numerous municipalities and municipal officials, providing daily general counsel services to elected officials, boards, and authorities, as well as representation in litigation matters.
Additionally, Laura represents complainants and respondents, specifically students, faculty, colleges, universities, and employers who are involved in Title IX and sexual assault, harassment, and abuse matters.
Prior to joining MCLC, Laura was a Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Albany, New York, and a Foreclosure Staff Attorney for The Legal Project.
Laura is recognized in The Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch and Super Lawyers Rising Stars. She earned her J.D., magna cum laude, from Albany Law School of Union University Law School, and her B.S. in Mathematics, summa cum laude, from the State University of New York at Albany.
