Lawley Insurance

Author: kturner

  • Update on Flood Insurance Lapse

    Update on Flood Insurance Lapse

    Congress failed to act to fund the federal government prior to the January 30th midnight deadline, resulting in a government shutdown. Not only are federal workers impacted, but the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is also suspended.

    Here’s how this suspension impacts you.

    Please review these FAQs issued by FEMA, the agency that oversees the NFIP.  Hopefully, Congress will act quickly to restore the funding.  We will keep you informed as we learn more.  *Note:  Private Flood Insurance policies/carriers are not impacted by this lapse.*

    Implementation Guidance on Lapse in National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authority

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How does the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP’s) lapse in authority to enter into
    new contracts for flood insurance affect me and how long will it last?
    After the NFIP expires, you will not be able to purchase or renew an NFIP flood policy.
    In addition, the ability to pay claims on an existing policy would be limited to available funds in the National Flood Insurance Fund and the Reserve Fund. FEMA does not know how long a NFIP lapse will last. Congressional action is required to authorize the NFIP.

    Has this lapse in Congressional authority for the NFIP ever happened before?
    Did Congress make the reauthorization retroactive before?
    Yes, there have been several lapses in authority for the NFIP in the past.
    In most of those cases, Congress reauthorized the NFIP retroactively.

    If I purchased flood insurance coverage as part of a mortgage loan closing
    that occurs prior to a lapse, will my policy be issued?
    Your insurance company will issue your policy, becoming effective on the date of your loan closing, so long as your insurance company receives your application and full amount due either:

    • Within 30 days from the closing, if the premium payment was made from an escrow account (lender’s check), title company, or settlement attorney.
    • Within 10 days from the closing, if the premium payment was not made from an escrow account (lender’s check), title company, or settlement attorney.

    If I purchased flood insurance coverage before a lapse in authority, but not in connection with a mortgage loan closing, will my policy be issued?
    Yes, your insurance company will issue the policy if you applied for coverage prior to a lapse AND your flood insurance company receives application and full amount due within 10 days from the application date.

    If your application was in a pending status prior to the lapse and required documents are received during the lapse period, your policy will be issued by the insurance company IF all documents received satisfy FEMA’s underwriting requirements and full amount due is received per the required timelines.

    My flood insurance policy is set to expire on the day after the lapse in authority. I received my renewal notice already from my insurance company and sent my payment to my insurance company before the lapse in authority. Will my insurance policy be renewed?
    Yes. As long as your insurance company sent the renewal notice before lapse in authority and the insurance company received your payment before the end of the 30-day renewal grace period or extension of time to pay the renewal premium, the company may renew your policy. However, NFIP insurers may not issue new renewal notices during a lapse in authority.

    I have a loan closing schedule after the lapse in authority and my lender told me to purchase flood insurance before my closing date. Will I be able to purchase a new flood insurance policy?
    Insurance companies may not issue new NFIP insurance policies for loans closing during a lapse of authority, unless the application was made prior to the lapse in authority AND full amount due is received within 10 days (if payment made by policyholder) or 30 days (if payment made through escrow, title company, etc.) of the closing date. FEMA does not prevent insurance companies from receiving and holding new applications and premium payments during a lapse, but insurance companies may not act upon those new applications during a lapse.

    Will my insurance company pay a claim for a loss that occurs during a lapse in authority?
    A lapse in authority will not affect the handling of a claim made against an NFIP flood insurance policy issued or renewed prior to a lapse. Your insurance company will adjust and pay your claim in accordance with the terms of your insurance policy. However, funding available to pay claims may be limited.

    What happens if my flood insurance company receives the premium for a new policy or an endorsement for added coverage during a lapse of authority and I suffer a flood loss before Congress reauthorizes the NFIP?
    If you make the application for a new policy or endorsement request adding coverage prior to a lapse in authority and your flood insurance company receives the application and full amount due within 10 days of the date of application, the policy or coverage increase will be effective on the applicable date, based on the NFIP waiting period rules.

    If you were to experience a claim during the lapse, the insurance company may process your claim based upon the new application or endorsement request received during the lapse as long as payment is received per the timeline noted above.

    My policy is up for renewal days before the lapse in authority. Was my policy renewed?
    If your renewal premium payment was received by your insurance company prior to or within the 30-day renewal grace period or extension of time to pay the renewal premium, your policy should be renewed. Check with your insurance agent or carrier to make certain your policy was renewed.

    How will I know when the NFIP has been reauthorized?
    FEMA will notify NFIP stakeholders so they can pass the information on to their customers.

    Hopefully, Congress will act quickly to restore the funding. We will keep you informed as we learn more.

  • Top 50 Insurance Broker Announces Three New Partners

    Top 50 Insurance Broker Announces Three New Partners

    Michael Szymoniak Jr., Adam Clouden, and Michael Bandini Promoted to Partner-Level Roles

    Buffalo, NY, (January 26th, 2026) | Lawley, an independent and family-owned firm specializing in insurance, employee benefits, retirement planning, and wealth management, is proud to announce the promotion of Michael Szymoniak Jr. and Adam Clouden to Partner within the Employee Benefits division, and Michael Bandini to Partner within the Property & Casualty division.

    These promotions expand Lawley’s leadership across its core business areas and reinforce the firm’s ongoing commitment to delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions to clients.

    Szymoniak brings more than a decade of experience in strategic benefits planning, cost-control initiatives, self-funded arrangements, and captive insurance solutions. He played a key role in developing Lawley’s Proactive Health Captive and launching Lawley Marketplace, the firm’s benefits technology platform.

    He holds a NYS Life, Accident & Health License and is a Group Benefits Disability Specialist (GBDS). Szymoniak is a Cornell University graduate and a Leadership Buffalo alumnus. Committed to community leadership, Szymoniak serves on the Board of Directors for The Foundation of Catholic Health and the Advisory Council at Hilbert College with past board involvement with Kenmore Mercy Foundation and the Junior Board of Nativity Miguel School of Buffalo.

    With over ten years of consulting experience, Clouden advises organizations on funding options and benefit programs tailored to financial targets, risk levels, and employee needs. He specializes in self-funded health plans and captive insurance strategies, helping employers control healthcare costs and increase transparency.

    Clouden is a Group Benefits Disability Specialist (GBDS), a Voluntary Benefit Specialist (VBS), and holds a Series 65 license. He is a graduate of the University at Buffalo and serves on boards for Make A Wish Foundation and the Rochester Small Business Council.

    Bandini brings 15+ years of experience at Lawley and deep technical expertise across construction, life sciences, manufacturing, and other specialized commercial sectors. He is particularly dedicated to supporting ambulance services and emergency response organizations, helping them navigate complex operational and regulatory complexities.

    Bandini has built a reputation for guiding clients through complex risk landscapes and works closely with organizations facing intricate exposures, leveraging his technical background and broad insurance knowledge to deliver true advisory value.

    Bandini is a Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), a Construction Risk & Insurance Specialist (CRIS), an Associate in Insurance Services (AIS), and an Energy Risk & Insurance Specialist (ERIS). He earned his bachelor’s degree from Ramapo College of New Jersey and serves on the board of Torn Space Theater.

    “Each of these professionals consistently demonstrate excellent leadership, creative thinking, and a strong commitment to our clients and company culture. We are very excited to welcome each of these individuals to the partnership level,” said Mike Lawley.

    “These well-earned promotions represent our agency’s growth and the outstanding talent on our team. We’re proud of each individual and excited for the future,” said Bill Lawley Jr.

  • Winter Weather Home Safety Tips

    Winter Weather Home Safety Tips

    With heavy winter weather and cold temperatures expected, taking extra safety precautions is essential to protecting what matters most.

    Check out these tips from our friends at Hanover to help keep you and your home safe before, during, and after a storm.

    Before the storm

    1. Charge your phone and electronic devices.
    2. Set your thermostat to 60 degrees or higher and place your refrigerator on its coldest setting.
    3. Know where the main water shutoff is and how it works (in case pipes freeze).
    4. Fill your car and generator with fuel and keep extra fuel on hand.
    5. Keep home ventilation clear and shovel out vents.
    6. Invest in a roof rake and check existing snow loads on your roof.
    7. Prepare your emergency kit and emergency plan.

    During the storm

    1. Keep the heat at 60 degrees or higher and close entries to unheated spaces to prevent frozen pipes.
    2. Use generators outside where exhaust fumes can’t enter through window or door cracks.
    3. Turn refrigerators and freezers to “high” in case of power outages.
    4. Fill tubs and sinks with water (for washing and flushing only) if you are on a well.
    5. Be careful when using a wood stove, fireplace, or space heater.

    After the storm

    1. Check the roof – Consider hiring a contractor to remove snow from your roof to help prevent ice dams.
    2. Clear out the snow – Remove snow from side walls and areas surrounding downspouts so that melting water has a path to flow away from the property.
    3. If there is flooding: clean up pools of water, dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew, move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth, and move items away from damp areas.

    Along with these tips, it’s also crucial to take steps to prevent your pipes from freezing in cold weather. Click here for more details on how to protect your pipes and handle frozen pipes if they occur.

    Lawley is committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe. To learn more and contact our team, click here.
  • Lawley Welcomes New Hires – January 2026

    Lawley Welcomes New Hires – January 2026

    Lawley is pleased to welcome new team members who will contribute to providing tailored services to our clients. The expansion of our Medicare Insurance, Employee Benefits,  Business Insurance, Personal Insurance, and Risk Management divisions strengthens our ability to deliver dedicated services across our footprint.

    Please join us in welcoming our newest additions to our team.

    Alyssa McGovern, Director of Medicare | With 15+ years of experience, Alyssa oversees all sales operations for Lawley Medicare Solutions, guiding long-term growth strategies that include mergers, acquisitions, and revenue expansion. She is a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), an Associate in Insurance Services (AIS), holds a NYS Life, Accident & Health License, and a NYS Property & Casualty License. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester.

    Aspen Hawkins, Personal Insurance Account Manager | Aspen manages an assigned book of business, handling renewals, endorsements, and insurance documents. She holds a NYS Property & Casualty License and earned an associate’s degree from Jamestown Business College.

    Catherine Scherrer, Business Insurance Account Associate | Supports the Real Estate team with processing documents, internal requests, and marketing submissions. Catherine earned a bachelor’s degree from the University at Buffalo.

    Charleen Capwell, Training Specialist | With 10+ years of experience, Charleen develops and communicates coverage-specific training opportunities, maintains departmental resources, and creates reports that track efficiency, consistency, and progress. She is an Associate in Automation Management (AAM) and an Associate in Insurance (AINS).

    Helen Bugman, Personal Insurance Assistant Account Manager | Helen supports the personal insurance team by preparing coverage summaries, policy changes, proposals, and comprehensive coverage reviews, while assisting with new business applications and ensuring all submissions are accurate and complete. Helen is a NYS Notary Public and holds a NYS Property & Casualty License.

    Jack Perry, Retirement Account Associate | Processes documents, manages internal requests, handles data entry, and offers administrative support for the Lawley Retirement Advisors team. Jack earned a bachelor’s degree from High Point University.

    Jayden Balcarzyk, Employee Benefits Client Service Specialist | Jayden conducts plan analysis and proposal preparation, processes enrollment applications, and oversees renewal packages for the Benefits team. He earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Geneseo.

    Jennifer Gray, Personal Insurance Account Manager | With 10+ years of experience, Jennifer handles renewals, processes endorsements, and creates insurance documents, while providing superior customer service. She is an Associate in Insurance Services (AIS), an Associate in Insurance (AINS), and holds a NYS Property & Casualty License.

    Jillian Johnston, Receptionist | | Provides administrative support by scanning and downloading insurance information, routing faxes, processing incoming and outgoing mail, and maintaining smooth communication with customers, carriers, and employees. Jillian earned a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State University.

    Joseph Hoerner, Captive Account Associate | Joe supports the evaluation and qualification of prospects for group captives and assists throughout the quote, sales, and documentation process. He earned a master’s degree from University at Buffalo and a bachelor’s degree from Elon University.

    Julie Dibb, Personal Insurance Account Executive | With 20+ years of experience, Julie consults with clients to recommend appropriate coverages, prepare quotes and proposals, and ensure timely submissions to carriers. She holds a Property & Casualty Brokers License and earned a bachelor’s degree from Hilbert College.

    Justin DelBello, Technology Platform Analyst | Bringing 10+ years of experience, Justin oversees the renewal process, coordinates timelines and data, and ensures each platform is properly configured for the new plan year. He earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Fredonia.

    Kaitlyn Partlow, Employee Benefits Consultant | Prepares and executes strategic business plans, secures RFPs, participates in team sales, and identifies cross-sell opportunities to expand client coverage. Kaitlyn holds a Life, Accident, & Health license in 8 states.

    Kiernan Higgins, Captive Account Associate | Kiernan manages new business submissions by assembling and tracking client data, performs ad hoc analyses related to captive performance, and reconciles shareholder documents for both new and renewal accounts. Kiernan earned a master’s degree from Virginia Tech and a bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg University.

    Madasyn Matusiak, Recruiter | Madasyn conducts industry focused searches, maintains recruitment records, manages company job postings, and assists with onboarding and new hire orientations. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Post University.

    Mary Setter, Retirement Account Executive | With 15+ years of experience, Mary coordinates fund and plan design changes, conducts plan review meetings, and works with the Retirement Plan Advisors to make recommendations that are beneficial to each client’s needs. She holds FINRA Series 7, 63, & 65 licenses and a NYS Life, Accident, & Health License.

    Michael Hendrix, Business Insurance Senior Account Executive | Bringing 40+ years of experience, Michael leads all aspects of account strategy and service, provides holistic risk management solutions, mentors team members, and fosters strong relationships across departments. He is an Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI), holds a NYS Property & Casualty License, and a Life, Accident, & Health License. Michael earned bachelor’s degree from St. John Fisher University.

    Natalie Sterns, Business Insurance Assistant Account Manager | With 25+ years of experience, Natalie produces summaries, certificates, policies, and proposals within designated timelines, while identifying cross-sell and up-sell opportunities. Natalie holds a NYS Property & Casualty License.

    Nicole Jolicoeur, Business Insurance Assistant Account Manager | Nicole has 10+ years of insurance experience and supports the business insurance team by managing renewal processes, handling non-renewals and cancellations, and validating audits. She earned an associate’s degree from Niagara County Community College.

    Robin Dillon, Technology Platform Analyst | With 10+ years of experience, Robin provides timely system support, employee education, and HR training to help clients use the platform confidently and effectively. She is a Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and holds a Georgia Life, Accident, & Health License.

    Sarah VanGuilder, Personal Insurance Account Manager | Bringing 10+ years of experience, Sarah develops new business, conducts consultative conversations, and builds strong relationships with prestige carriers and clients. Sarah is a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) and holds a NYS Property & Casualty License.

    Stephanie Freeman, Business Insurance Certificate Assistant | Manages certificate processing, reviews certificate requirements, and escalates any compliance gaps to the account manager. Stephanie holds a Texas General Lines Agent License, a Property & Casualty License, and a Life, Accident, & Health License.

    Thomas Maloney, Staff Accountant | Tom supports financial closings, reporting, and audits, while collaborating across teams to ensure accuracy and adherence to internal controls. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Canisius University.

    Thomas Prince, Senior IT Support Specialist | With 25+ years of experience, Thomas provides technical support by coordinating user computer applications, reviewing tickets, and communicating IT workflows to ensure smooth operations and effective solutions.

     

    Looking to take your successful career to the next level? As a family-owned company, we provide the support, care, and resources for you to take your career to new heights.
    View our open careers page here or contact us today to learn more.

  • Lawley and Witkin Scott Associates Announce Strategic Merger

    Lawley and Witkin Scott Associates Announce Strategic Merger

    Partnership Expands Resources, Preserves Local Service

    Buffalo, NY, (January 5th, 2026) | Lawley, an independent and family-owned firm specializing in insurance, employee benefits, retirement planning, and wealth management, is pleased to announce that Witkin Scott Associates has joined the Lawley organization effective January 1, 2026.

    The merger, led by Christopher D. Ross, Principal at Lawley, and Harris Witkin, President of Witkin Scott Associates, unites two organizations dedicated to serving individuals, businesses and community.

    As a result of this partnership, Witkin Scott Associates will benefit from expanded access to Lawley’s sophisticated resources and market opportunities, while preserving its established local presence and the client relationships it has cultivated. Clients will continue to receive personalized, consistent service, further supported by Lawley’s comprehensive expertise and capabilities.

    “Joining Lawley enables us to provide our clients with expanded resources without compromising the personal relationships and local service they trust,” said Harris Witkin, President of Witkin Scott Associates.

    “We are looking forward to this new chapter and the growth opportunities it presents for both our team and our clients.”

    As part of this partnership, all associates will join Lawley and relocate to its main office in Buffalo, NY, located at 361 Delaware Avenue. Both Lawley and Witkin Scott Associates are committed to facilitating a seamless transition for all clients.

    “We look forward to collaborating with Harris and his team, confident that their commitment and innovative approach will further strengthen our organization and enhance the value we deliver to our clients,” stated Chris Ross, Principal at Lawley.

    ABOUT WITKIN SCOTT ASSOCIATES, INC
    Witkin Scott Associates, Inc is a dynamic independent insurance agency specializing in property and casualty insurance and risk management solutions. Since 1896, Witkin Scott Associates, Inc has delivered insurance programs to our business and personal clients. From small home businesses to publicly traded corporations, Witkin Scott Associates, Inc‘s commercial insurance programs are designed to protect assets and minimize risk to help our customers avoid financial hardship. While large enough to place and handle the most complex of risks we consider our strength to be the personal service we provide to our clients.

  • 5 Safety Reminders to Keep at the Heart of Your Holiday Celebrations

    5 Safety Reminders to Keep at the Heart of Your Holiday Celebrations

    From increased travel to heightened fire hazards, the holidays present conditions that deserve careful attention. Keep these five key reminders from the National Safety Council in mind to protect what matters most throughout the season.

    Stay Safe on the Road
    • Prepare your care for winter and keep an emergency kit with you
    • Plan ahead for heavy traffic
    • Designate a sober driver
    • Make sure everyone is properly buckled in

    Decorate Safely
    • Keep potentially poisonous plants such as mistletoe and holly berries away from children and pets
    • Check that artificial trees are fire resistant
    • Remove live trees from your home once they are dry
    • Replace light sets that have broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections

    Watch Out for Fire-Starters
    • Place candles where they can’t be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of children
    • Use flameless rather than lighted candles near flammable objects
    • Use a screen on the fireplace when a fire is burning
    • Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year

    Handle Food Safely
    • Wash your hands frequently when handling food
    • Use separate cutting boards, plates, and utensils for meat
    • Refrigerate leftover food within 2 hours of being served
    • Use a food thermometer to make sure food is cooked to the appropriate temperature

    Give Children Safe Toys and Gifts
    • Choose children’s toys that are age appropriate
    • Be cautious of toys that have button batteries or magnets which can be harmful or fatal if swallowed
    • When giving riding toys, include appropriate safety gear like helmets and wrist guards
    • Choose toys for children under 3 that do not have small parts which could be choking hazards

    For a more comprehensive list of holiday safety tips, visit the National Safety Council’s website here.

  • Lawley is Voted #1 Insurance Agency in Chautauqua County!

    Lawley is Voted #1 Insurance Agency in Chautauqua County!

    Dunkirk Observer and Jamestown Post-Journal Vote Lawley as #1 Insurance Agency in Chautauqua County!

    CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY, NY, December 9th, 2025

    Lawley is honored to announce its recognition as “Best Insurance Agent” in the Dunkirk Observer and Jamestown Post-Journal’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards.

    The Best of the Best Awards, held annually by these publications, celebrate organizations and businesses nominated and selected through readers’ input. Readers initially nominate preferred businesses for each category, then cast votes to determine the top five finalists, followed by a final vote for their overall favorite.

    Lawley remains committed to serving as a trusted partner to its clients. We extend our sincere appreciation to Chautauqua County for selecting Lawley as the best insurance agency.

    To view all winners and finalists, please CLICK HERE.

  • National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Reauthorized

    National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Reauthorized

    Congress is required to periodically renew the statutory authority for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to ensure its continued operation. This reauthorization process is vital for maintaining coverage for property owners in flood-prone regions. Without timely renewal, the NFIP may lose its ability to issue new policies or renew existing ones, potentially placing individuals and communities at risk.

    The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has been reauthorized through January 2026, effective retroactively from October 1, 2025. Policies and claims after this date remain valid, ensuring continuous coverage. FEMA manages the NFIP, which is vital for providing flood insurance and supporting recovery in vulnerable areas.

    At Lawley, our team remains committed to keeping you informed about legislative updates and assisting you with any changes related to the NFIP. We closely monitor all relevant developments and are dedicated to helping you understand their impact on your coverage, premiums, and claims processes. Our specialists are available to review your current flood insurance requirements, update policies, and provide guidance throughout the claims process in the event of flood-related damage.

    For further assistance, please contact our team at 800.849.8618. We are dedicated to providing expert support and ensuring you remain protected and prepared for any modifications to the NFIP.

  • Lawley Expands Employee Benefits Division

    Lawley Expands Employee Benefits Division

    Kaitlyn Partlow Joins Lawley as Employee Benefits Consultant

    Lawley, a family-owned, independent insurance brokerage, employee benefits, retirement planning, and wealth management firm, is excited to welcome Kaitlyn Partlow as an Employee Benefits Consultant to the team.

    Based in Rochester, NY, Partlow brings a fresh perspective to benefits consulting, blending strategic insight with a commitment to putting clients first. Partlow’s passion for ongoing education and her innovative outlook are closely aligned with Lawley’s goal of delivering outstanding value to its clients. She is committed to guiding employers through the often-complicated world of group health benefits, offering expertise in compliance, plan design, and cost control. With her industry knowledge and strong people skills, Partlow excels at forming lasting relationships that further both company objectives and employee wellness.

    In her role, Partlow will proactively seek out new benefit insurance opportunities, contributing to revenue growth with focused sales strategies. Her responsibilities include shaping and implementing strategic business initiatives, securing requests for proposals, collaborating on team-based sales, and spotting opportunities to cross-sell additional coverage to clients. Her keen attention to process ensures onboarding runs smoothly, from handling paperwork to submitting applications.

    Before joining Lawley, Partlow honed her skills at Aflac, a top provider of supplemental insurance, where she built trusted client partnerships, delivered tailored benefit solutions, and grew her clientele through referrals and networking. She holds a Life, Accident, & Health license spanning eight states, reflecting her dedication to maintaining high professional standards and regulatory adherence.

    Outside of work, Partlow is highly involved in community service. She has been recognized as a ROC Finest Honoree by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and actively supports the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester.

    “We’re excited to have Kaitlyn on board and look forward to the impact she will make in delivering innovative, client-focused benefit solutions,” says Kevin Tehan, partner of Lawley.

    “With Kaitlyn joining the team, we are able to strengthen our ability to offer tailored benefits solutions and provide trusted advice throughout Rochester, New York, and the agency’s footprint,” says Chuck Allesi, partner of Lawley.

  • Celebrating 70 Years of Excellence

    Celebrating 70 Years of Excellence

    From a local Buffalo agency to a national leader, Lawley celebrates decades of excellence and growth.

    Founded in 1955 as a local agency, Lawley has grown into a nationally recognized firm, thanks to the dedication of its team and the trust it has built within its communities. The company’s associates form the foundation of its culture and growth, with many employees serving for decades, some for over 40 years. Their loyalty, expertise, and passion have embodied Lawley’s core values across generations.

    Lawley’s history is marked by adaptability and strategic expansion, entering new markets, broadening service lines, and strengthening its national footprint through mergers that address changing client needs. Notable recent milestones include its largest merger in 2023 with Shoff Darby, which added 75 employees in Connecticut. This was followed by a 2024 merger with Sgroi Financial (now Sgroi Lawley), which, together with Georgetown Lawley and Lawley Retirement Advisors, has expanded wealth management services to nearly 10,000 clients nationwide. Recently, Lawley entered Florida via a merger with JL Insurance/Professional Insurance Services and enhanced its Rochester, NY Medicare offerings by merging with ROC Insurance Services. These initiatives reflect the entrepreneurial mindset that has guided Lawley since its inception and highlight its ongoing focus on building enduring relationships based on trust.

    In recognition of its consistent growth and industry standing, Lawley rose to #48 from #53 on Business Insurance’s list of the Top 100 Largest Insurance Brokers in the U.S. for 2024, underscoring its mission to be the preferred partner for businesses, individuals, and carriers seeking reliable, long-term connections.

    Lawley also continues its longstanding partnership with the Buffalo Sabres as their official insurance broker, reinforcing its dedication to Western New York.

    Today, with more than 600 associates and 19 locations nationwide, the agency continues to expand while remaining deeply rooted in its principles of integrity, service, and community engagement.

    “My grandparents laid the foundation for Lawley with a simple but powerful idea: do the right thing for people. That principle has guided us through seven decades of change and growth. From a small Buffalo agency to a national firm, we’ve remained true to those values, integrity, service, and trust. This milestone is a tribute to their vision and the enduring culture they created,” says Bill Lawley Jr., Principal at Lawley.

    “As we celebrate this milestone, we’re incredibly thankful to our clients, teammates, and industry partners. Lawley’s success has always been rooted in adaptability and forward thinking,” says Mike Lawley, Principal at Lawley. “Looking ahead, we’re excited to build on this foundation, embrace new opportunities, and continue delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the people and businesses we serve.”

    “Over the decades, our expansion into new markets and services has been guided by a clear mission: to build long-term relationships rooted in trust. We’re proud of the impact we’ve made, not just in business, but in the lives of our clients and the neighborhoods we call home,” says Chris Ross, Principal at Lawley.