John has been with the firm since 2004. His trial practice encompasses transportation liability (both personal and commercial auto), labor law and construction liability, coverage claims and premises liability, with a particular focus on livery car and commercial motor vehicle defense. He has tried over 100 cases ending in verdicts, many in defense verdicts or damages awards well below the reserve. John attributes his success at trial to meticulous preparation. “I think of every case as if it’s going to trial, whether it is or not. That way, I can identify the issues that are pro and con to the defense and I know where to go and where not to go with research and investigation. It’s a better use of time and more economical for the client,” he says. 

In addition to his liability practice, John is experienced in Surrogate’s Court matters, filing petitions for probate and administration, wrongful death proceedings and guardianships. He is also a Part 36 NYS Court Fiduciary eligible for appointments as a Guardian Ad Litem, Court Evaluator and Attorney for Alleged Incapacitated Person in Bronx, New York and Kings Counties. 

Before joining Russo & Gould, John was staff counsel at AIG where he tried premises cases of high damages in the Bronx, Westchester and the Hudson Valley. As an AIG “Rising Star,” he attended AIG’s NITA Trial Model Training Program.

John appreciates being part of Russo & Gould’s skilled team of trial lawyers who know how to get the best results for their clients. “We’re all trial attorneys who best know how to focus time and effort. If you waste time, you lose cases,” he says. Outside of work, John enjoys fixing up his 100-year old Victorian house in Brooklyn, planting and gardening, and traveling with his wife, Naomi.