The Columbian Lawyers Association of Brooklyn held its 57th annual Judges’ Night on Thursday, Dec. 5, at Gargiulo’s Restaurant in Coney Island. With more than 100 members in attendance, the members-only event is one of the association’s biggest gatherings of the year, standing out for its impressive turnout compared to similar events hosted by other bar associations.

Founded in 1966 by Hon. Frank J. Pino, the former presiding justice of the Appellate Term of the Supreme Court, the Columbian Lawyers Association has grown to include more than 300 members. The association serves as a hub for Italian American lawyers and judges, fostering camaraderie and professional development through monthly meetings and special events. Judges’ Night is one of the highlights of its calendar, along with the Columbus Day Parade and its annual Installation Dinner Dance.

This year’s Judges’ Night included introductions of all judges in attendance from both Brooklyn and Staten Island, with special recognition for member judges of Italian heritage. The evening also featured a moment of silence in memory of Justice Anthony Cutrona, a past president of the association who passed away in 2013 but remains a revered figure in the association and Brooklyn’s legal community.

John Dalli, the current president, welcomed attendees before introducing Mario Romano, the association’s president-elect and current president of the Bay Ridge Lawyers Association. Romano served as master of ceremonies and will officially take the reins as president of the Columbian Lawyers Association in June.

As one of New York State’s most active and respected bar associations, the Columbian Lawyers continue to honor their heritage and support the legal community through events like Judges’ Night, celebrating the judiciary and their shared commitment to justice.