S&C litigators Michael Cooper, Bob Giuffra and Ann-Elizabeth Ostrager will all be among the honorees at the New York Law Journal’s 2019 Professional Excellence Awards tonight. Michael is receiving a Lifetime Achievement award, while Bob is a finalist for Attorney of the Year and Ann-Elizabeth has been named a Rising Star.
In recognition of Michael Cooper’s long and distinguished professional career, retired judge Albert M. Rosenblatt of the New York Court of Appeals praises Michael for “unfailingly stepping up for the Good Cause,” citing his work in and out of the courtroom. “Michael, the ultimate lawyer, has made time to take on leadership roles in ways that advanced the lives of others.” Click here to read the essay.
Attorney of the Year finalist Bob Giuffra is singled out by the New York Law Journal not just for the wide variety of matters he handles, but also for the “intense focus” he brings to each case. “[H]e truly hates losing,” the article notes. Also highlighted is the impressive workload Bob has taken on: “Litigation may have cooled off since the financial crisis,” the profile begins, “but someone forgot to tell Robert Giuffra.” Bob is “always thinking about the social impact of his work,” from helping large employers avoid potential bankruptcy to securing legal services funding for low-income New Yorkers. “Lawyers in private practice can do public service,” he says. Click here to read the article in full. NYLJ has also produced a video tribute to Bob, which you can view here:
Rising Star Ann-Elizabeth Ostrager was honored as one of the “most promising lawyers under 40.” Asked for her advice to young lawyers, Annie says: “Take a chance on yourself—look for opportunities and work that will be new and challenging, because you will be rewarded for doing so.” Click here to read the profile.