It is with great sadness that Gerstman Schwartz & Malito LLP announces the passing of the law firm’s partner, Robert J. Malito on February 13, 2017.

Robert J. Malito was a prominent figure in the legal and lobbying community rich in experience from both the public and private sectors for over forty years. From his early days working with former New York mayors John Lindsay and Abe Beame to his decision in 1975 to found the prestigious law firm of Davidoff Malito & Hutcher LLP, Mr. Malito was recognized as a distinguished lawyer and lobbyist in Washington for the last 33 years.

Mr. Malito led a highly regarded and storied career, having served in various governmental capacities and having established himself as a formidable force in the lobbying arena. Mr. Malito formed crucial relationships with key players involved in the Albany Legislature and beyond. Mr. Malito also served as Legislative Assistant to Mayor of the City of New York, Deputy Commissioner, New York City Public Events, and Director of Government Relations, New York City Economic Development Administration.

Mr. Malito was a Carnegie Fellow, an Adjunct Professor at C.W. Post Graduate School of Public Administration and served as a member on various boards including the Board of Trustees of Touro Law School, Board of Directors, St. Francis Hospital and the National Center for Disability Services.

In addition, he held an Honorary Doctorate from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine.

Bob was a friend and mentor to us and we are so appreciative of the years we had with him as part of our firm. He came to us at the end of his career, and we were blessed to have Bob as part of our lives and our firm greatly benefitted from his wisdom. He gave us an historical perspective on life, law, lobbying and business, and we are so grateful for how he enriched our lives.

May the life of Bob Malito be for a blessing. We will cherish our beloved friend forever. On behalf of our entire firm, our deepest prayers for the Malito family.

Sincerely,
Brad Gerstman, David Schwartz and the Gotham Family