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Robert Brucato
Robert Brucato
Senior Appellate Counsel, Proceed (formerly Counsel Press)
Years in current role: 34
What is one challenge currently facing the legal profession that deserves more attention?
The shift to virtual appearances and hybrid work arrangements is challenging the close camaraderie amongst the Western New York legal community, and ultimately puts our prized civility among the profession at risk. While remote appearances are convenient, there is something to be said for being in person, and the reduction in the number of those opportunities can lead to a reduction in civility. That is something that the bar works to overcome.
How do you balance legal expertise with client service and relationship-building?
My business has been built around relationship-building and those relationships are everything. It is critical to have strong connections where a client knows that you are looking at what is good for them for the long haul and not necessarily in the short term. At the same time of course legal expertise is critical but in order to stand out as a provider, you have to provide that top customer service that is so lacking in many businesses today, and you always have to be building relationships.
What is one accomplishment — professional or personal — that you are especially proud of?
Last year my term as president of the University at Buffalo School of Law Alumni Association ended. I am very proud of the work I accomplished as president. But of all the efforts I have made with UB Law School, what I am most proud of are the mentor-mentee relationships I have had and developed with students and new lawyers. Throughout my career I have developed many strong relationships. This is a daunting business to start out in without connections. I find it very satisfying and fulfilling to be able to help a student or a new lawyer make a connection that could advance their career. These are challenging times and to be able to help a younger lawyer develop their career is very fulfilling.
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This profile is part of our Power 50 Law list for 2026. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net. |
