New York State Bar Association President Claire P. Gutekunst issued the following statement today. “The New York State Bar Association has consistently advocated for a highly qualified, independent and diverse judiciary. Judicial independence is essential to maintaining the rule of law and protecting individual rights. “While it is fair to criticize judicial rulings on the merits, … Continued

Claire P. Gutekunst of Yonkers assumes office today, June 1, as the 119th president of the New York State Bar Association. Gutekunst, an independent mediator and arbitrator, is the sixth woman to serve as president of the 74,000-member Association.  She succeeds David P. Miranda of Albany (Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti). “The New York State … Continued

Overhauling New York’s criminal defense system for the poor should be a top priority for state lawmakers and Governor Andrew Cuomo during the current legislative session, New York  State Bar Association President David P. Miranda said today. “Criminal justice reform in New York must begin with ensuring that everyone accused of a crime, regardless of … Continued

Kathleen R. DeCataldo and James J. LeCain have been honored with 2016 Howard A. Levine Awards for Excellence in Juvenile Justice and Child Welfare, given by the New York State Bar Association’s Committee on Children and the Law. The awards, presented on May 4 at the State Bar Center in Albany, recognize the vital services … Continued