Renowned attorney Gary Naftalis boasts an impressive litany of legal accomplishments throughout his thriving 50-year career. Now 81, Naftalis has lived and contributed significantly in the legal sphere, notably as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Southern District of New York and in trying mob cases in the 1970s alongside Robert Morgenthau. His competency was further exhibited as he successfully defended Michael Eisner in a consequential shareholder derivative suit.
Naftalis’ name can be found embellishing the shingle of a distinguished Big Law firm and his expertise in “bet the company” litigation in the securities industry made him a prominent figure within the field. He continues to actively partake in the pro bono program at his long-term base of operation, the Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel law firm.
With half a century of experience in practicing law, Naftalis has seemingly seen and done most of what the legal world has to offer. Nonetheless, it’s not all serious business for the seasoned attorney. With intelligence, wit, and compassion, he recently received a Lifetime Achievement honor from The American Lawyer. A tip he gives to younger lawyers during his acceptance speech: “Don’t take yourself too seriously.”
Find more insights about Gary Naftalis and his celebrated legal career in this recent profile piece written about him.