Firm Profile

The firm was founded in 1954 and is now one of Staten Island's largest and longest established law firms. Initially formed by Thomas J. Russo, many of the firm's partners have become elected officials and judges. Current partner, Robert J. Scamardella, specializing in estate and commercial litigation, joined the firm in 1984. Partner John D'Amato, specializing in civil and criminal litigation, including toxic tort and mass litigation, joined the firm in 1987. More recently, in 1991, John A. Fusco was elected to the NYC Council and on January 1, 1999 was elected Surrogate Judge of Staten Island. Thomas J. Russo retired from the active practice of law and on January 1, 2002 former US. Congressman and Staten Island Borough President Guy V. Molinari joined the firm. Frank M. Ortiz, a former partner in the firm Wilentz, Goldman and Spitzer, specializing in toxic and mass tort litigation, joined the firm on January 1, 2003.