OUR STORY

When the late, legendary John F. (“Jack”) English founded this law firm in 1960, his vision was to build a law practice staffed by only the most talented and respected attorneys. More than 60 years later, Meyer, Suozzi, English and Klein, P.C., a law firm comprising some of the most celebrated legal professionals and former public servants, is a testament to his foresight and resolve.

Our firm’s heralded foundation is based upon the unparalleled expertise and leadership of lawyers who were inspirational public servants holding the highest and most influential positons. Among the ranks: Judges from every level in the court system, including New York’s highest Court. White House administration leadership. Town Supervisor. State and Federal prosecutors. Labor Secretary. New York State Assemblyman. These leaders helped shape the character of our state and our nation, with their accomplishments in civic service, from the trenches of local community boards to the farthest reaches of federal government. We are proud, too, of our bipartisan culture; our partners have held high positions on both sides of the political aisle.

We have grown exponentially through strategic acquisitions as well as by the achievements of our top attorneys.

Throughout his career, Jack English was a trusted advisor to presidents, from John F. Kennedy to Jimmy Carter, as well as to United States senators and other prominent politicians. Over the decades, Jack enlisted the best and brightest to his firm. With a keen eye for talent, he invited Bernard S. Meyer, a New York State Supreme Court justice, to join the firm in 1975. Several years later, Judge Meyer was appointed an associate judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. A renowned legal scholar, he returned to the firm to continue his private law practice until the end of his career.

Decorated World War II hero Joseph A. Suozzi – who began his career as Glen Cove City Court judge at age 28, making him perhaps the youngest sitting judge in the nation – joined us after serving as a justice on New York State´s Supreme Court as well as its Appellate Division. He served as a Senior Partner in the firm until his passing in 2016.

Also joining us was John V. N. Klein. A two-term Suffolk County executive and director of the Long Island Association for more than two decades, he is a recognized business leader and political commentator. He provided his guidance as managing attorney from 1984 to 1996.

Basil A. Paterson arrived in 1982, and the firm gained one of the most successful statesmen and attorneys in New York´s minority community. His numerous achievements included serving as New York State senator and secretary of state, New York City deputy mayor and commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. He was an active member of the firm until his passing in 2014.

Harold M. Ickes joined us in 1977. A political strategist and United States presidential advisor, his stellar career includes three years as deputy chief of staff under President Bill Clinton.