Peter J. Gregory

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Partner
Goldberg Segalla

Years in current role: 7 as a partner

What is one legal issue or trend you’re keeping a close eye on this year?

With the rapid development and deployment of artificial intelligence systems (especially generative AI) lawyers are grappling with questions about intellectual property, privacy, security, transparency and liability. Many municipalities, regulatory agencies and employers are now introducing or considering AI laws and rules, making compliance more complex and urgent. For lawyers, this is a moving target requiring constant monitoring of both legal developments and technological advancements.

What skills do you think are most crucial for new attorneys entering the field today?

New attorneys entering the field today need more than just strong legal knowledge — they need a versatile skill set that blends traditional legal competencies with modern professional demands. Key skills include legal research and writing, critical thinking, technological proficiency, business development awareness and emotional intelligence. Adaptivity is paramount. The legal landscape is shifting faster than ever. AI, regulatory change, remote work and new client expectations are driving continuous evolution. Lawyers who learn proactively and adapt quickly will thrive.

What’s one misconception people often have about your area of law?

In addition to my real estate practice, I focus on civil litigation, including personal injury defense. One common misconception about lawyers who defend personal injury lawsuits is that we’re just trying to deny injured people fair compensation or protect big insurance companies at any cost. However, our role is to ensure that claims are legitimate, fairly valued and that settlements reflect the true extent of damages, not inflated or unsupported amounts. Not all personal injury claims are clear-cut — many involve shared fault, exaggerated injuries or preexisting conditions. Defense attorneys are often tasked with identifying fraudulent or overreaching claims, which helps preserve the integrity of our civil justice system.

How does the Rochester community influence your work or professional philosophy?

Unlike other areas of New York State, the Rochester legal community is known for its collegiality. Being treated with respect and kindness reinforces the value of treating others the same way — clients, colleagues, even opponents, which is also my professional philosophy. People who work in a healthy culture tend to focus on sustainable relationships and reputations, rather than quick wins or cutthroat tactics, prioritizing trust and transparency over short-term gain. A collegial community doesn’t just make work more enjoyable — it shapes the kind of professional someone becomes, and I hope Rochester doesn’t lose this unique feature with the rise of remote work and more attorneys practicing statewide.

What’s your ideal way to spend a weekend in the Finger Lakes or Western New York?

As a Hobart College alum, I am a proponent of Geneva and Seneca Lake. My ideal weekend would be a stay at Belhurst Castle, where my wife and I were married. We would enjoy the scenic beauty and tour some of our favorite wineries, including Hermann J. Wiemer and Fox Run, followed by an intimate dinner at FLX Table, before taking the short drive back to Rochester.

This profile is part of our Real Estate Law Power List for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net.