Greg Cholakis was born and raised in the Capital District’s Rensselaer County, where he resides to this day. After graduating from Troy High School, he attended Siena College, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, with studies in Sociology and Psychology. After finishing first in his class in Criminal Law, Greg graduated from Albany Law School in 1992. He immediately commenced his legal career, and in 1993, started his own law practice in downtown Troy.

Over the years, Greg has given back to his community through his involvement with many community groups and organizations. In an effort to better his neighborhood and community, Greg and some of his neighbors formed Troy’s Historic Fifth and Grand Street Neighborhood Association. For several years, he served on the Board of Directors of Joseph’s House in Troy, giving his time and energy to the cause of the homeless. He is currently a member of the Downtown Troy Business Improvment District’s board of directors, working with community leaders to improve the quality of life for businesses and residents in Troy’s downtown. He also serves on the Jack Dwyer Award Committee, which consists of like-minded individuals who annually recognizes an outstanding individual for their commitment to the community.

Greg has previously served as a legal advisor, coach and mentor to the New York State High School Mock Trial Teams and the Youth Courts of the Capital District. He has been a fund raiser for the Arts Center of the Capital Region, and was proud to have served on the Rensselaer County Courthouse Dedication Committee.