Italian-American judges celebrated at the Columbian Lawyers Association’s fifty-sixth annual judges night

December 14, 2023 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

From left to right, Mario Romano, President Yolanda Guadagnoli and President-Elect John Dalli gather at the 56th annual Judges Night, celebrating the Italian heritage of judges from Kings and Richmond counties. This prestigious event, hosted by the Columbian Lawyers Association of Brooklyn, highlights the significant contributions of these legal professionals to the community.
Photos: Mario Belluomo/Brooklyn Eagle

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The Columbian Lawyers Association of Brooklyn honored its member judges from Kings and Richmond counties at the 56th annual Judges Night, held at the Dyker Beach Golf Course on Nov. 30. The event, featuring a smorgasbord and cocktail party, was a vibrant celebration marking the start of the holiday season in the legal community.

“I cannot think of a better way to kick off the holiday season than this event. It is a perfect way to bring us all together and acknowledge the distinguished members of our judiciary,” said President Yolanda Guadagnoli.

John Dalli, the president-elect of the Association, played a pivotal role in the evening’s proceedings. “This is one of the greatest events that the legal community holds each year,” Dalli said.

His enthusiasm echoed throughout the evening as he introduced each judge in attendance. The list included more than 50 judges.

The night was particularly special as Dalli highlighted the Italian-American judges, followed by all Brooklyn judges, and then judges from other boroughs. This recognition underlines the Association’s commitment to acknowledging the cultural heritage and professional contributions of its members.

Last year’s event, as recalled by attendees, was marked by the energy and enthusiasm brought by Yolanda Guadagnoli, then-president-elect. This year, Dalli took the mantle, ensuring the tradition of celebrating judicial excellence continued with the same vigor and respect.

Judges Night, known for its lack of formal awards or speeches, provides an informal but important platform for legal professionals to connect and familiarize themselves with the judiciary. The event’s unique structure allows for a personal introduction of each judge, offering insights into their roles and courts of operation.

In his remarks, Dalli acknowledged the profound impact and dedication of the judges in serving justice. He emphasized the importance of their role in shaping the legal landscape and providing leadership during some of the most challenging times for individuals appearing before the court.

The event, exclusive to members, not only celebrated the judiciary’s work but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among the legal fraternity. The annual Judges Night has become a hallmark event for the Columbian Lawyers Association, reinforcing its status as a central hub for legal networking and cultural acknowledgment in Brooklyn.