The New York State Bar Association is honoring Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas and two state Supreme Court justices at its Annual Meeting in January, recognizing their dedication to the rule of law and commitment to the legal profession.
Judge Zayas will receive the Betty Friedlander Award for Trial Excellence during a ceremony on Jan. 16 at the New York Hilton Midtown. The award highlights his contributions to trial advocacy and his role in mentoring judges and attorneys throughout New York.
“Judge Zayas has demonstrated unparalleled dedication to mentoring both judges and attorneys across New York State,” said NYSBA President Domenick Napoletano. “His tireless efforts have instilled the highest standards of courtroom practice, professionalism, and ethics in the next generation of lawyers.”
The Trial Lawyers Section, led by Chair Angélicque Moreno, noted Zayas’ leadership and his commitment to fairness in the courtroom. Moreno described him as a “guardian of the law” and a protector of trial integrity.
The award honors the legacy of Betty Friedlander, one of upstate New York’s first female trial lawyers, who set a high bar for legal advocacy and professionalism.
Recognizing Excellence in the Judiciary
Supreme Court Justice Sallie Manzanet-Daniels of the Appellate Division, First Department, will receive the Justice Irma Vidal Santaella Memorial Award for Excellence in the Courtroom.
“Judge Manzanet-Daniels has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to justice both on and off the bench,” Napoletano said.
The award honors Justice Santaella, the first Puerto Rican woman elected to the New York Supreme Court, who was a trailblazer in advocating for Puerto Rican and women’s rights.
The Peter C. Kopff Trial Advocacy Award will be presented to Judge Joseph Capella, administrative judge of the Supreme Court in the 12th Judicial District, recognizing his impartiality, ethical leadership, and commitment to mentorship.
“Judge Capella’s career is a model of integrity and ethical leadership with impartiality and honesty at its core,” Napoletano said.
The NYSBA Annual Meeting, running from Jan. 14–17, promises a dynamic slate of events. Highlights include the Presidential Gala, where retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer will receive the association’s Gold Medal.
The Presidential Summit on Jan. 15 will address justice for victims of wartime human trafficking and sexual violence, featuring distinguished speakers such as Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy and Abid Shamdeen.
