
The Bay Ridge Lawyers Association (BRLA) held its 2024 Winter Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Seminar on March 1 at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, where past president Dominic Famulari presented on the pitfalls of foreclosures.
An experienced legal practitioner and respected member of the Brooklyn legal community, Famulari delivered a presentation entitled “Being a Referee in a Foreclosure: Avoiding Traps for the Unwary,” aimed at equipping attorneys with the necessary insights to navigate the complex responsibilities and potential pitfalls in foreclosure proceedings.
Famulari, a partner at the Law Office of John D. Famulari and a figure well known for his involvement in various legal associations across the borough, has carved out a niche for himself through his expertise in foreclosure matters.
His comprehensive session covered critical aspects of serving as a referee in foreclosure cases, including eligibility requirements, disqualification criteria, conflict of interest considerations and the procedural nuances of foreclosure cases from a referee’s perspective.
Famulari detailed the eligibility criteria for becoming a referee, emphasizing compliance with Part 36 of the Rules of the Chief Judge and the disqualification grounds for certain individuals, including sitting judges and political party officials. Famulari also outlined the financial constraints placed on referees by the Office of Court Administration, such as the cap on annual compensation and restrictions on the number of high-compensation appointments.
In the midst of his presentation, Famulari navigated through the procedural intricacies of handling foreclosure cases, dividing them into two distinct parts: the computation phase and the foreclosure sale.

He provided practical insights into managing tax lien and mortgage foreclosure computations, stressing the importance of accuracy in interest calculations and adherence to Kings County Foreclosure Rules. Through sample documents and personal anecdotes, Famulari illuminated the challenges and responsibilities of conducting foreclosure sales, including managing bids, ensuring compliance with legal and court protocols and addressing any potential surplus-funds scenario.
Famulari’s talk highlighted how important it is to be thorough and ethical when working as a referee in foreclosure cases. His vast experience, including his law degree from Brooklyn Law School and roles in various legal positions in Kings and Richmond counties, shows his dedication to law and his skill in helping lawyers understand foreclosure law.












SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.