Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, PC, a distinguished New York City law firm with offices on 13th Avenue in Brooklyn and Manhattan, announced the addition of retired Judge Michael Farkas to its roster.

Farkas, a well-known Brooklyn attorney, a former military judge and a past president of the Kings County Criminal Bar Association, will join the firm as “Of Counsel,” enhancing its government relations and white-collar criminal defense practices while spearheading a new military justice division.

The firm, led by past Brooklyn Bar Association Presidents Arthur Aidala, Marianne Bertuna and Hon. Barry Kamins (ret.), has garnered national attention for representing high-profile clients such as Rudolph Giuliani, Lawrence Taylor, Ghislaine Maxwell and Harvey Weinstein. Aidala’s successful argument before the New York State Court of Appeals recently overturned Weinstein’s 2020 sex crime conviction.

Aidala and his team are recognized for their expertise in criminal trial defense, complex civil litigation, attorney disciplinary matters, federal and state appeals, and a wide array of government relations services. Aidala also hosts the Arthur Aidala Power Hour on AM 970 and has served as a Kings County assistant district attorney and president of the Brooklyn Bar Association.

The firm’s roster already includes several retired judges, including Hon. Barry Kamins (ret.), a former New York State Supreme Court justice and administrative judge for the New York City Criminal Courts, and Hon. John Leventhal (ret.), a retired associate justice of the New York State Appellate Division, Second Department. Hon. David Lewis (ret.), a former acting Supreme Court justice and counsel to the New York State Senate majority leader, is also part of the team.

Farkas brings a wealth of experience to the firm. His military career spanned 28 years in the U.S. Army Reserve, culminating in his retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 2023. He served in various capacities within military justice, including prosecutor, defense counsel, and judge, and specialized in the Law of Armed Conflict and detention operations.

In civilian life, Farkas has nearly 30 years of experience as a criminal trial lawyer and securities defense attorney. He has served as a homicide prosecutor with the Kings County District Attorney’s Office and as in-house counsel with Citigroup/Smith Barney. He is also a trustee of the Brooklyn Bar Association, chair of its Criminal Law Committee, past president of the Kings County Criminal Bar Association, and a member of the Appellate Division, Second Department Attorney Grievance Committee.

Farkas will collaborate with David Schwartz, Esq., founder of Gotham Government Relations, to enhance the firm’s government relations practice. Schwartz is an accomplished lobbyist, trial attorney, and crisis manager known for his vigorous advocacy on behalf of a diverse clientele. He has represented large corporations, trade associations, not-for-profits, foreign entities, and individuals, using his vast experience in law, business, media, and politics to navigate complex legal and political landscapes.

Schwartz’s career includes significant achievements in both direct lobbying and public advocacy. He is recognized for his ability to mobilize grassroots campaigns and leverage media platforms to influence public opinion and government policy. His approach combines traditional lobbying with innovative strategies, such as television and radio advocacy, to educate the public and sway decision-makers. Schwartz is also adept at crisis management, often stepping in to handle high-stakes situations for clients facing intense public scrutiny or legal challenges.

A prolific political fundraiser, Schwartz has raised millions of dollars for candidates across the political spectrum, demonstrating his deep connections and influence in political circles. He has a reputation for effectively using the courts to address political or commercial injustices when necessary, showcasing his versatility as both a litigator and a lobbyist.

In 2022, Schwartz’s Gotham Government Relations merged with Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, creating a formidable presence in the field of government relations. This partnership has allowed the firm to offer a comprehensive suite of services, from legal representation to strategic lobbying. Gotham’s lobbying campaigns are led by senior Vice President Denny Salas, a seasoned political advocate with a distinguished career in politics and advocacy. Salas’s expertise complements Schwartz’s, ensuring that the firm’s clients receive robust representation at all levels of government.

With Farkas joining the team, Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins is poised to further expand its government relations practice, providing clients with legal and strategic support. The addition of Farkas’ military experience will help the firm’s ability to represent service members and address issues related to military justice and government relations.