Elena Fast

PRO

Elena Fast

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 12 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at New York, NY
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Federal Crime, White Collar Crime, Securities & Investment Fraud

521 5th Ave, 17th Floor, New York, NY

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Elena

Biography

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 30%

Felonies Weapons Trafficking Drug Trafficking Human Trafficking Conspiracy Grand Larceny Homicide Trials Computer Crimes Major Crimes and Conspiracies Assault Cigarette Smuggling Computer and Internet Crime Criminal Possession of a Forgery Devices

14 years | 900 cases

30%
Federal Crime 30%

RICO Wire Fraud Conspiracy Tax Evasion Sherman Act Violations Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Bribery & Extortion Bankruptcy Fraud Mann Act Violations Insurance Fraud Bid Rigging Sherman Act Violations Kidnapping Hobbs Act

14 years | 100 cases

30%
White Collar Crime 30%

White Collar Crime Antitrust Bank Fraud Bank Fraud Conspiracy Bank Secrecy Act Blackmail Bribery Check Kiting Conspiring to Defraud Criminal Tax Fraud Embezzlement Enterprise Corruption Extortion Falsifying Business Records FCPA Healthcare

14 years | 100 cases

30%
Securities and Investment Fraud 10%

SEC Investigations Securities Fraud Investment Fraud Wire Fraud Embezzlement Shareholder Fraud

14 years | 20 cases

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 45 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2024 2022 2021
...
+ 3
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2021 2020 2019
...
+ 1

Licenses

Licensed in New York for 12 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2014

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Licensed in New Jersey for 12 years

State: New Jersey

Acquired: 2013

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The Fast Law Firm, P.C.

521 5th Ave, 17th Floor, New York, NY, 10175

fastlawpc.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Elena online.

Elena Fast's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

62 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 16 reviews | Responsiveness

Posted by Donna | March 12, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Counsel

Elena Fast and the Fast Law Firm were fantastic! I would highly recommend. Elena was incredibly knowledgeable about New York criminal law, had fantastic personal experience and thought very strategically to increase the likelihood of success in the case. Elena and her staff were responsive and helpfu...l and made me feel like I really mattered as a client. The case had a fantastic outcome and I am so happy I found Elena!

Posted by Uriel | February 23, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Criminal case, appeal and Retroactive Youthful Offender Adjucation

Good day. I am writing this review to first gracefully thank Ms. Fast and Mr Perkins, who were my attorneys and the entire Fast Law firm for providing me overall excellent client service and for not only meeting my family and I expectations, but for also surpassing those expectations. I also want to ...mention the office staff who were also a large part of the front line effective communication were also truly a blessing and deserves worthy recognition. They were extremely responsive in a timely manner, courteous, and made sure to set up meetings with the attorneys Ms. Fast and Mr. Perkins anytime I needed or just wanted to talk to them. This gained my trust and eliminated a lot of my stress and fears. Overall the entire Fast Law team truly went above and beyond to make sure no stones were left unturned in my case. They also involved me in the process of my case informing me of things step by step as they unfolded. My case was a Criminal, Appeal, and Youthful adjucation all in one as an adult. It had many challenges, and I was previously told by other attorneys that the probability of a favorable outcome was not high. Due to this, before retaining the Fast Law firm, I vetted several attorneys for a year, but after speaking with Ms. Elena Fast, I knew she was the ideal, in fact, the perfect attorney that I needed. She was honest, composed, understanding of my situation, and extremely impressive on her knowledge of the law while explaining everything in a detailed manner. Her team that included Mr. Perkins was also heaven sent. His combined poise, empathy, confidence in me, and diligence allowed them both to collectively produce and craft the best representation in my case, which ultimately resulted in a victory for me in my case. Yes, they not only beat the odds, but they won a type of case that, from what I was told has never been victorious in that county before.. The Fast Law firm did it. They single handedly restored my faith back in the justice system and more importantly they help restore back my life. .My review in part is to let them know I will be eternally grateful for them. It is also to empathize and reduce the stress of those that are or may be in need of searching for a bona-fide attorney, by letting you know and making your search a little easier, that the Fast Law firm is one of honorable mention with representation of great credibility, and dedication. They profoundly exhibited this in my case.They are the real deal. I hope this helps anyone in need of an outstanding Law firm.to represent them All the best.

Posted by Mike | April 26, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Could not have be happier

The most obvious thing about Mrs. Fast when you meet her is that she is extremely intelligent, hard working, and a master at her craft. Despite being in high demand, she has a way of making you feel as though you are her only client. I retained her services for a case that to me seemed unwinnable b...ut after seven months of work we had amassed a defense that was so strong that the petitioner had no options but to drop the case altogether. Mrs. Fast's work ethic was on full display from start to finish... nights, weekends, and 7 hours on Christmas day for me. Truly incredible. Mrs. Fast also has a great understanding of the human side of a court proceeding, and the tremendous amount of stress a legal battle can put on someone- her support was one of the key reasons I made it through this mess with my sanity in tact. in short, I would run - not walk, to retain her services and would recommend her to absolutely anyone.

Posted by Rebecca | February 17, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Landlord & Tenant

Elena Fast is a Legal Powerhouse

Elena Fast, Esq. is a stellar lawyer who has not only honed an expert knowledge of the law, but will go above and beyond for her clients to carefully ensure that she is advising them in the most beneficial way possible. Referred by a mutual connection, Elena advised me regarding a negotiation I was ...having with my place of residence in NYC as a result of an ongoing pest infestation. Elena not only demonstrated extensive knowledge regarding NYC Administrative code, but also helped me craft persuasive correspondence with management while being swift to respond promptly every step of the way. I was ultimately able to come to a mutually agreed upon resolution with my landlord without needing to step foot in court. I recommend Elena Fast, 100 percent and would not hesitate to retain her services again if the need arose.

Posted by anonymous | January 23, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Exceptional Patience and Results

I’m deeply indebted to Elena and the rest of her team for her expertise, patience, and incredible results. Having worked with her for over two years, Elena fought relentlessly for a reduced charge from our initial meetings onward and was promptly available for any of my inquiries throughout the entir...ety of our working relationship, putting me at ease through this tumultuous time. She is deeply knowledgeable with criminal law and her experience and familiarity with the DA’s office ensured we strategized our case successfully, negotiating for an "unconventional" plea deal that allowed me to permanently erase my criminal record. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Elena and the Blanch Law Firm again, and their compassion, honesty, and ability to get things done is without parallel.

See All Client Reviews

Elena Fast's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Elena
Adelina D. Graham headshot
Adelina Graham

Criminal defense lawyer | May 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Elena is the kind of Attorney I would retain if I ever needed it. I was lucky enough to find her when my client desperately needed the best and the best is what he got. Elena is sharp, professional, and extremely competent. She stands by her clients and is committed to getting them the best possible result."

Victor M. Feraru headshot
Victor Feraru

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"It is clear from reading Attorney Fast’s analysis here in the Avvo community they she is incredibly knowledgeable. The kind of thinking she exhibits leaves me no doubt that she is an excellent pick if you need an attorney."

Mehdi Essmidi headshot
Mehdi Essmidi

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have know Elena for nine years, we meet when I first started law school. As two young law students preparing for a career in criminal law, we bonded over our drive to do the right thing and protect justice in our society. After law school both of us sharpened our teeth in the district attorney's office before moving on to the noble practice of Criminal Defense. She is a smart, capable, and fast witted attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Ravisharon Kaur Khunkhun headshot
Ravisharon Khunkhun

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 16

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Elena is not only an extremely competent attorney but she is also a dream to work with. We have worked together multiple times to protect clients from adverse immigration consequences that could potentially be triggered by poorly negotiated pleas. Elena is excellent at using her skills to obtain the best outcome for her clients. I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer as she over-delivers every time I’ve worked with her!"

Frank Thomas Housh headshot
Frank Housh

Criminal defense lawyer | May 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Edward Carrasco headshot
Edward Carrasco

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Elena Fast! Ms. Fast has seen the criminal justice system from both sides: as a former prosecutor—who worked hand-in-hand with local and federal law enforcement—and now, as a defense attorney."

Jeffrey S Farmer headshot
Jeffrey Farmer

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 03

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Elena consulted with me on a criminal case in New Jersey. Even though she practices primarily in New York, her knowledge of the law in New Jersey rivaled that of experienced New Jersey practitioners. She is tenacious, smart, skilled. Whenever I encounter someone in need of a top notch criminal defense attorney in New York she is on a short list of names that I feel comfortable making the referral. I highly recommend her and hopefully I have a chance to work with her in the future."

Michael Peter Kushner headshot
Michael Kushner

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 12

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Elena is an incredibly attentive and personable lawyer. Her ability to evaluate a case, identify the relevant issues, and prepare a matter for trial are excellent. I endorse her unreservedly and encourage anyone who is considering hiring her to retain her - you won't be disappointed."

Ryan G. Blanch headshot
Ryan Blanch

Criminal defense lawyer | May 09

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Elena has seamlessly transitioned from being a prosecutor at the Kings County District Attorney’s Office to working as a defense attorney with our firm. She is an incredibly knowledgeable, kind, patient, tough and hardworking lawyer who is genuinely devoted to helping clients and their families through every step of the case. Elena is a great addition to our team and I highly recommend her for any federal or state matter."

James A. Schiff headshot
James Schiff

Criminal defense lawyer | May 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Elena and I worked together on a lengthy, complex trial, and I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of a bright, aggressive, hardworking attorney who will go the extra mile to defend her clients and work tirelessly until she achieves the desired result."

Brian Matthew Wagner headshot
Brian Wagner

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I worked with Elena for a number of years. She is as dedicated, detail oriented and intelligent an attorney you could ask for. Highly recommend Elena Fast for any criminal matter."

Lawrence David Gerzog headshot
Lawrence Gerzog

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 09

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Outstanding young lawyer with excellent courtroom presence."

Dimitri Teresh headshot
Dimitri Teresh

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 09

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I’ve had opportunity to work with Elena during our time at the Brooklyn DA’s Office. During that time, I’ve found her to be an excellent attorney with a keen understanding of criminal law, an ability to develop a rapport with witnesses, and an amicable personality. She was a pleasure to work with and I am honored to have had opportunity to work alongside her."

View All Endorsements
Adelina D. Graham headshot
Adelina Graham

Business lawyer

Ilevu Yakubov headshot
Ilevu Yakubov

Securities and investment fraud lawyer

Victor M. Feraru headshot
Victor Feraru

Criminal defense lawyer

Paul John Wiegartner Jr headshot
Paul Wiegartner

Criminal defense lawyer

Mehdi Essmidi headshot
Mehdi Essmidi

Criminal defense lawyer

Kenneth Steven Feraru headshot
Kenneth Feraru

Criminal defense lawyer

Edward Carrasco headshot
Edward Carrasco

Criminal defense lawyer

Jeff Alan Chabrowe headshot
Jeff Chabrowe

Criminal defense lawyer

Jeffrey S Farmer headshot
Jeffrey Farmer

Criminal defense lawyer

Ravisharon Kaur Khunkhun headshot
Ravisharon Khunkhun

Immigration lawyer

Michael Peter Kushner headshot
Michael Kushner

Criminal defense lawyer

Irene Vaisman headshot
Irene Vaisman

Immigration lawyer

Thomas Louis Bellifemine headshot
Thomas Bellifemine

Criminal defense lawyer

James A. Schiff headshot
James Schiff

White collar crime lawyer

Ryan G. Blanch headshot
Ryan Blanch

Criminal defense lawyer

Brian Matthew Wagner headshot
Brian Wagner

Criminal defense lawyer

Dimitri Teresh headshot
Dimitri Teresh

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2023

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Elite Lawyer Federal Criminal Defense, Elite Lawyers

2020

Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys, America's Top 100 Attorneys

2020

Client's Choice, Avvo

2020

Top Contributor, Avvo

2020

Lawyers of Distinction, Lawyers of Distinction

2020

Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

2020

Lawyers New York, Marquis Who's Who in American Law

2019

Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

2019

Top Contributor, Avvo

2019

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2018

Clients’ Choice Award, Avvo

2018

Top Contributor Award, Avvo

2018

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2015

Grand Jury - Highest Number of Indictments Obtained, KCDA - Trial Zone Green

2014

Hughes Scholarship, Hughes Foundation

2014

Public Interest Fellow Award, New York Law School

2014

Judge William Smith Hirshberg Scholarship, Judge William Smith Hirshberg Foundation

2013

Public Service Recognition Award, U.S. Department of Labor

2011

Public Service Recognition Award, U.S. Department of Labor

2009

Summa Cum Laude, University of Massachusetts Boston

2009

College of Management Valedictorian, University of Massachusetts Boston

2008

State Street Honors Program, State Street Advisors

Work Experience

2021 - Present

Managing Partner, The Fast Law Firm

2020 - 2021

Managing Partner, The Blanch Law Firm

2018 - 2020

Junior Managing Partner, The Blanch Law Firm

2012 - 2018

Assistant District Attorney, Kings County District Attorney's Office

2010 - 2014

ERISA Advisor, U.S. Department Of Labor

Associations

2020 - Present

New York Criminal Bar Association

Attorney Member

2019 - Present

First Decade Committee

Member

2018 - Present

Federal Bar Council

Member

2014 - Present

New York City Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

USA v. KJ (SDNY)

No jail time, weekly counseling.

USA v. MAB (SDNY)

Client plead to conspiracy to distribute a misbranded substance, resulting in a 60 month sentence.

PSNY v. DP (NY County Supreme Court)

Case dismissed before Indictment.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2013

New York Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

2009

University of Massachusetts, Boston

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2019

ABC Australia

Analysis of Harvey Weinsten Case

2018

News 24 Hong Kong

Analysis of Chi Ping Patrick Ho’s SDNY case

2009

University of Massachusetts Boston Graduation

Valedictorian Speech

Publications

2025

Fast Law Blog Fast Law Blog

Languages

English

Russian

Spanish

Activity

Top Contributor

Elena earned significant contribution points in 2021.

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution