Joseph W. Belluck Reappointed Chair of New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct
Belluck & Fox Managing Partner Joseph Belluck has been reappointed as chair of the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct by Governor Kathy Hochul. The appointment of Belluck marks the start of a new four-year term, beginning on April 1, 2024. He has served on the commission since 2008 and assumed the chairmanship in 2016.
The Commission on Judicial Conduct plays a crucial role as an independent agency responsible for reviewing misconduct complaints against judges and justices within the state’s unified court system. Composed of 11 non-paid members, Belluck is one of four individuals appointed by the Governor.
“I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her confidence in reappointing me to lead the Commission on Judicial Conduct,” said Belluck. “I am honored to continue its important work and constitutional mission: to oversee judicial ethics enforcement professionally and fairly throughout New York State. As a lawyer who helps people and their families find justice through the courts, I understand how critically important it is to maintain trust and ethics across the judiciary. We will strive to ensure that every citizen receives the fair and due process they are entitled to as Americans.”
The significance of the commission’s work was highlighted in its recently published annual report, revealing a record-breaking number of complaints totaling 2,982. Among these complaints, 778 preliminary inquiries or full-scale investigations were authorized, leading to seven public dispositions, including removals from office, resignation stipulations, censures, and admonitions.
Beyond his role in the Commission on Judicial Conduct, Belluck is renowned for his legal expertise, particularly in representing injured consumers and workers in asbestos and serious injury litigation. Throughout his career, he has secured settlements exceeding $1 billion. Notably, he previously represented the State of New York in its landmark $25 billion lawsuit against the tobacco industry, resulting in a significant settlement.
As Belluck embarks on another term leading the Commission on Judicial Conduct, his dedication to upholding judicial ethics and ensuring fairness within the New York State court system remains steadfast. With a wealth of experience and a track record of integrity, his continued stewardship promises to uphold the highest standards of judicial conduct across the state.
News Release: Belluck & Fox Secures a Major Win for Survivors of the Buffalo Mass Shooting in a Lawsuit Against Social Media Companies
[NEW YORK, NY, March 18, 2024] – Belluck & Fox LLP, part of the legal team representing the victims of the Buffalo mass shooting in 2022, has successfully opposed the motions to dismiss filed by social media defendants. Seth Dymond of Belluck & Fox and the legal team successfully argued that social media platforms can constitute products as defined by New York law and under the particular circumstances of this case, meaning the defendants may be subject to product liability.On May 14, 2022, a racially motivated massacre occurred at the Tops Friendly Markets supermarket on the East Side of Buffalo, NY. The shooter, Payton Gendron, held white supremacist beliefs and was driven by white replacement ideology. To carry out this heinous attack, he intentionally targeted a historically black neighborhood and traveled a considerable distance from his home. The criminal attorney for Gendron conceded that the crime was fueled by racist hate disseminated through online platforms.
Plaintiffs, which include family members of the victims and survivors of the May 14th massacre, filed their lawsuits against social media companies and others. The plaintiffs allege that these defendants had a significant role in promoting and disseminating racist ideologies, resulting in the racially motivated massacre at Tops. They allege that the defendants’ platforms are not merely message boards with user-generated content but are highly advanced products intentionally designed to captivate and addict young users, and to feed them information, even when unsolicited. The plaintiffs allege that the defendants’ products indoctrinated assailant Gendron and then steered him towards other posts that promoted the “white replacement theory.” Gendron pleaded guilty to charges including murder and terrorism motivated by hate and was sentenced in February 2023 to life in prison without parole. He also faces federal hate crime charges in which the government has indicated it intends to seek the death penalty.
The defendants, including META Platforms, Snap, Inc., Alphabet, Inc., Google, LLC, YouTube, LLC, Discord, Inc., Reddit, Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., and 4Chan Community Support, LLC, filed motions to dismiss. They claimed their platforms only act as hosts of third-party content and that they are immune from liability under the Communications Decency Act (CDA) and the First Amendment.
The decision denying the motions to dismiss is the first in the nation to give victims the ability to seek justice based on the nature of the products manufactured and marketed by social media companies.
Belluck & Fox will continue to advocate on behalf of plaintiffs to ensure social media platforms are held liable for any potential harm and associated dangers. The platforms should be suitably designed to prevent danger to users and others, and social media companies should be responsible for warning users of the potential risks of content and for implementing the necessary measures to ensure that all users have access to a safe and inclusive online environment.
For a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys, contact Belluck & Fox today if you or a loved one have suffered serious harm due to social media usage.
About Belluck & Fox LLP
Belluck & Fox, founded on the philosophy of pursuing justice, one family at a time, has been dedicated to fighting for justice and securing compensation for its clients. Belluck & Fox law firm specializes in wrongful death lawsuits involving a variety of circumstances including nursing home abuse or neglect, workplace accidents, public transportation disasters, motor vehicle accidents, and defective products. While no amount of financial compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, victims’ families should be compensated fairly for the wrongful death, providing them with a degree of financial comfort and justice for those left behind.
News Release: More and More Mesothelioma Patients are Hiring Belluck & Fox to Represent Them and Their Families – Law Firm’s Mesothelioma Filings Are Up 85 Percent Compared to Previous Year
The 2023 Asbestos Filing Data by national legal data collector KCIC has acknowledged Belluck & Fox for having the greatest rise among all mesothelioma firms in the country.
New York – Belluck & Fox LLP, a nationally recognized personal injury law firm, is pleased to share an increase of 85% in the number of asbestos-related case filings since last year. This notable increase is highlighted in the 2023 National Asbestos Filings report by KCIC. Among the top law firms in the country for asbestos-related filings, Belluck & Fox has maintained the highest increase in asbestos-related claims.
“We are honored to represent veterans, workers, and others with mesothelioma. We fight every day for justice on behalf of our clients, said Joseph Belluck, the firm’s founding partner. “We are humbled that more and more mesothelioma patients are hiring us based on our national reputation for getting the most compensation for our clients and treating our clients like family.”
The report compiled by KCIC, a highly reputable source for monitoring trends in the legal industry, sheds light on Belluck & Fox’s success in asbestos litigation. Each year, KCIC conducts a comprehensive analysis of asbestos-related lawsuits nationwide.
During the period of 2022 to 2023, all mesothelioma filings nationally only increased by 1%, and lung cancer filings increased by 9%. However, Belluck & Fox experienced a major increase in filings between 2022 and 2023, with an impressive 85% rise. While the filings were spread across various jurisdictions, most of them were concentrated in New York State. This not only highlights Belluck & Fox’s reputation for advocating on behalf of mesothelioma and lung cancer patients but also highlights their exceptional expertise in handling complex asbestos litigation cases. It is the hard work and dedication of the firm’s attorneys and staff that have contributed to this outcome.
Full KCIC Report Asbestos Annual Report 2023
About Belluck & Fox, LLP
Personal. Professional. Proven. Founded in 2002 by Joseph Belluck and Jordan Fox, Belluck & Fox LLP is a nationally recognized law firm specializing in cases of mesothelioma and asbestos, personal injury, and other forms of injustice. The firm represents clients across the United States based out of New York City with additional offices around the state in Albany, Rochester, and Woodstock, as well as Maine, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. They have secured over $1 billion in verdicts for their clients. For more information, visit www.belluckfox.com.
News Release: Belluck & Fox and Social Media Victims Law Center Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit against Meta, ByteDance, TikTok and the MTA
Popular since the 1980s, subway surfing has seen a resurgence among teens due to social media. Starting in 2021, the MTA reported a significant increase in incidents, with more than 450 cases in the first half of 2023. In that year, five people died from subway surfing in New York City, compared to five deaths between 2018 and 2022.
On the first anniversary of Zackery’s death, his family and friends gathered at the Williamsburg Bridge for a candlelight vigil and marched to the location near where Zackery fell to his death. This event aimed to unite the community in remembrance of Zackery, to share cherished memories, and to advocate for action against this deadly trend. Belluck & Fox LLP, along with the Social Media Victims Law Center, are committed to seeking justice for Zackery and, hopefully, providing some form of peace to his loved ones.
About the Social Media Victims Law Center
The Social Media Victims Law Center (SMVLC), socialmediavictims.org, was founded in 2021 to hold social media companies legally accountable for the harm they inflict on vulnerable users. SMVLC seeks to apply principles of product liability to force social media companies to elevate consumer safety to the forefront of its economic analysis and design safer platforms to protect users from foreseeable harm.
About Belluck & Fox LLP
Belluck & Fox, founded on the philosophy of pursuing justice, one family at a time, has been dedicated to fighting for justice and securing compensation for its clients. Belluck & Fox law firm specializes in wrongful death lawsuits involving a variety of circumstances including nursing home abuse or neglect, workplace accidents, public transportation disasters, motor vehicle accidents, and defective products. While no amount of financial compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, victims’ families should be compensated fairly for the wrongful death, providing them with a degree of financial comfort and justice for those left behind.
Read the Business Wire feature here.
Belluck & Fox Wins Appeal Under Child Victims Act (CVA)
In a recent case, attorneys Michael Macrides, Harris Marks, and Seth Dymond from Belluck & Fox have successfully appealed a dismissal of a sexual abuse case under the Child Victims Act (CVA). Their efforts overturned the initial dismissal, which contested the details of a claim dating back to the late 1980s.
A motion to dismiss had been filed by the defendant based on CPLR 3211 (a) and the Court of Claims Act 11 (b), and it had been granted by the Court of Claims. However, this decision was challenged through persuasive arguments presented by the Belluck & Fox team in obtaining this significant appellate decision.
This ruling recognizes the difficulty survivors face when trying to recall exact dates and times of abuse, particularly in cases involving minors. The court acknowledged the validity of the plaintiff’s claims. Michael Macrides, Harris Marks, and Seth Dymond collectively achieved justice for the plaintiff, while also emphasizing the complexity of instances that occurred decades ago and the delicate balance between legal requirements and the lived experiences of survivors seeking closure and accountability.
If you or a loved one suffered childhood sexual abuse, regardless of when it happened, call the committed, top-rated attorneys at Belluck & Fox today for a free consultation.
Diseases Related to 9/11 First Responders and the Ongoing Impact
The devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, not only claimed the lives of thousands of innocent people but also left a lasting impact on the health of the brave first responders who risked their lives to save others. Recently, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) announced a tragic milestone – the number of first responders who have died from illnesses related to 9/11 has reached the same number as those who lost their lives on the day of the attacks. This somber revelation serves as a stark reminder of the long-term health consequences faced by these heroic individuals.
The FDNY shared the heartbreaking news via an Instagram post by Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh (@fdnyfc). She revealed that two more first responders had succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses, bringing the death toll to 343. EMT Hilda Vannata lost her battle with cancer, while retired firefighter Robert Fulco died from pulmonary fibrosis. Both had spent significant time working in the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site.
Commissioner Kavanagh expressed deep sorrow for the families of these fallen heroes and emphasized the responsibility the FDNY has towards its colleagues beyond the events of September 11th. She acknowledged that the toll of these illnesses on FDNY members continues to rise, with approximately 11,000 individuals suffering from World Trade Center (WTC)-)-related diseases, including 3,500 with cancer. The commissioner noted, ‘Our responsibility to our FDNY colleagues extends far beyond what we asked of them on September 11th and in the days and months that followed during rescue and recovery.’
The legacy of honor and promise created for the fallen heroes drives the FDNY’s advocacy for survivors. Commissioner Kavanagh vowed to continue pushing until all members receive the care they deserve for the rest of their lives. The FDNY’s dedication to their service and sacrifice is unwavering, and their promise to never forget them stands strong.
FDNY Fire Commissioner Kavanaugh closed her Instagram post by noting, ‘343 of our heroes lost in one day and today, 343 more. The FDNY will never forget them. This is our legacy. This is our promise.’ The diseases related to 9/11 first responders are a harsh reality that has unfolded in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. The toll on the health and lives of these brave individuals is a constant reminder of the sacrifices made that day and in the days and months that followed. We must continue to support and advocate for the survivors, ensuring they receive the care they deserve. The legacy of the fallen heroes must be honored by fulfilling the promise of lifelong care and support for those who risked everything to save others on that fateful day.
If you or a loved one have been affected by the repercussions of diseases or health concerns related to 9/11, contact Belluck & Fox to discuss your options. Our skilled attorneys can help you in receiving the compensation and care that you need.
Sources:
Instagram: Laura Kavanaugh @fdfny
BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/
People Magazine: https://people.com/fdny-first-
Taking Action for Safer Streets
A recent analysis by Transportation Alternatives reveals the alarming rate of serious traffic-related injuries occurring on the streets of New York City. The research showed that over 4,200 people endured significant bodily harm from January 2022 to June of this year alone, equating to an average of 8 people per day. It is evident that urgent action is needed to address the safety concerns plaguing our transportation infrastructure.
From January to September of 2023, there have been 170 traffic-related deaths in New York City. It has been a more fatal year for cyclists, with 22 killed thus far, compared to the 14 fatalities during the same period last year. Data collected by Transportation Alternatives shows that, on average, during the first six months of the year, 15 pedestrians, seven cyclists, and 27 drivers were seriously injured in crashes… each week.
Transportation Alternatives’ analysis examined crashes involving various road users, including cyclists, pedestrians, motorists, passengers, and individuals on motorized bikes and scooters. The data revealed that a significant number of accidents resulted in dismemberments, fractured bones, miscarriages, and permanent organ damage. These life-altering consequences highlight the urgent need for safer streets.
The analysis also exposed the disparities faced by particular communities. According to the crash data, the ten council districts with the highest populations of people of color faced a 15% increased likelihood of experiencing traffic injuries, while residents of the ten council districts with the highest poverty rates were nearly a quarter more likely to be gravely injured. Both of these statistics were in comparison to the average district. These contrasts underscore the need for equitable access to safe transportation options and more significant protection for vulnerable communities.
Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers, chair of the Council’s transportation committee, commented, ‘This data is alarming, but not surprising. Our transportation infrastructure forces those in our outer borough and lower-income neighborhoods to be disproportionately reliant on cars and bikes, putting them at the highest odds of being in harm’s way.’
Former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s Vision Zero program, launched in 2014, aims to eliminate traffic deaths and injuries in New York City. However, Transportation Alternatives argues that the focus often rests solely on fatalities, neglecting the severity of serious injuries.
Some aspects of the analysis have been argued by the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT has cited that specific neighborhoods typically have a heavier concentration of people during the day and fewer people at night.
Mona Bruno, a spokesperson for the DOT, wrote, ‘Throughout Vision Zero, NYC DOT has worked to ensure all New Yorkers benefit from our safety projects— and we’ve seen the greatest decreases in pedestrian fatalities both in neighborhoods with high poverty rates and the highest levels of non-white residents.’ She argued that an ‘equity formula’ that helps determine where to make street safety improvements has helped Transportation Alternatives focus more intently on the neighborhoods with high poverty rates and people of color.
Regardless of opinion or bias, the facts speak for themselves. Within the first six months of the year, Manhattan led the boroughs in pedestrian injuries with 289. Within this same period, Brooklyn led the boroughs in cyclist injuries with 204, while Queens led the boroughs in motorist injuries with 567.
The alarming number of severe injuries on New York City streets demands immediate attention and action. As we strive for safer streets and improved transportation infrastructure, it is crucial to support those who have suffered due to negligence or inadequate safety measures. Belluck & Fox stands ready to assist accident victims in pursuing justice, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected. With their extensive experience and expertise, their team will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a serious accident, contact Belluck & Fox today for expert legal counsel and representation. Together, we can work towards a safer and more secure future for all New Yorkers. Please reach out to Belluck & Fox today for a free consultation.
Celebrating Exceptional Work in Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions – Plaintiffs: Recognition in The Best Lawyers in America® for Partner Joseph Belluck
New York City (September 18, 2023) – Belluck & Fox LLP proudly congratulates partner Joseph Belluck on his recognition in the milestone 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. The highly regarded publication, known for over 40 years as the most credible measure of legal integrity and distinction in the United States, has publicly released its 2024 recognitions. He has received this honor for his exceptional work in Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions – Plaintiffs.
Belluck & Fox, LLP was founded 25 years ago and has recovered over $1 billion dollars for its clients. With a focus on asbestos litigation and personal injury law, the firm champions for their clients and families. This passion is evident in the recognition that they have received from numerous publications and companies, including The National Law Journal, US News & World Report, the Better Business Bureau, and The Best Lawyers in America®.
‘I am once again very grateful and humbled by this acknowledgment from my peers,’ Joe commented. ‘Throughout my career, I have always fiercely advocated for our clients and will continue the pursuit of justice for every single client of Belluck & Fox, LLP.’
Joe is a highly respected attorney and founding partner of Belluck & Fox, LLP, known for his superior representation of clients and strong ethical standards. With a focus on mesothelioma, truck and construction accidents, and other serious injury litigation, he has dedicated his legal career to supporting consumers and workers. Through dedication and extensive knowledge, he has settled over $1 billion in asbestos and personal injury lawsuits. Joe is also charitable and a humanitarian, chairing multiple organizations and dedicating his time and knowledge to many great causes.
Joe’s inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® is based on a comprehensive peer-review survey, which gathered more than 13.7 million confidential evaluations from fellow legal professionals this year. Best Lawyers® firmly believes in the power of peer recognition, and their peer review methodology remains at the center of the company’s ideology. Their philosophy is simple: the best lawyers know who the best lawyers are. This year’s overwhelming response, with almost 25,000 voters participating in the survey, demonstrates the immense respect and admiration Joe has garnered in his field. The outstanding achievements of Joe in Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions – Plaintiffs, as acknowledged by The Best Lawyers in America®, are a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional legal skills, and commitment to excellence. This recognition serves as an inspiration to his peers and a reassurance to his clients that they are working with one of the best in the field.
About Belluck & Fox, LLP
Personal. Professional. Proven. Founded in 2002 by Joseph Belluck and Jordan Fox, Belluck & Fox LLP is a nationally recognized law firm specializing in cases of mesothelioma and asbestos, personal injury, and other forms of injustice. The firm represents clients across the United States based out of New York City with additional offices around the state in Albany, Rochester, and Woodstock, as well as Massachusetts and Maine. They have secured over $1 billion in verdicts for their clients. For more information, visit www.belluckfox.com.
News Release: Belluck & Fox Doubles Year-Over-Year Asbestos Case Filings
KCIC 2023 Mid-Year Asbestos Filings Update Recognizes Belluck & Fox for the Highest Increase of Any Mesothelioma Firm Nationally
New York – Belluck & Fox LLP, a nationally recognized personal injury law firm, is proud to announce that it has doubled its year-over-year asbestos-related case filings, as reported in the recently released KCIC 2023 Mid-Year Asbestos Filings Update. The growth shows a larger percent-increase expansion than any other mesothelioma firm across the United States.
“We want to thank our clients and our referral partners for trusting us with their cases,” said Joseph Belluck, partner at Belluck & Fox. “We know the importance of what we do for our clients and their families.”
Potential clients seeking representation for themselves and loved ones who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, injured, or suffered injustice can reach out for a free consultation.
“We take immense pride in our role as advocates for those affected by mesothelioma,” said Belluck. “Our dedication to providing the best legal representation remains the cornerstone of our firm, and this reinforces our resolve to continue fighting for justice for mesothelioma patients and their families.”
The report by KCIC, a recognized authority in tracking legal industry trends, reveals that Belluck & Fox has achieved unparalleled success in asbestos litigation. With a year-over-year increase of 97 percent, the firm has added an impressive 28 additional filings to its caseload compared to mid-year 2022. This accomplishment reaffirms Belluck & Fox’s excellent reputation in representing mesothelioma and lung cancer patients.
Belluck & Fox has consistently demonstrated excellence in asbestos litigation, maintaining its standing among the top plaintiff firms in the industry. The notable surge in case filings underscores the firm’s strategic approach to mesothelioma cases across various jurisdictions. While the firm’s filings are predominantly in New York State, they are also widespread in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, as well as across other states.
Attorneys at Belluck & Fox are admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Colorado, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Washington, the District of Columbia, and several federal jurisdictions, including the Supreme Court. The firm serves clients across the United States based out of New York City, with offices around the state in Albany, Gloversville, Rochester, and Woodstock, as well as Boston, Massachusetts, Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Portland, Maine.
About Belluck & Fox, LLP
Personal. Professional. Proven. Founded in 2002 by Joseph Belluck and Jordan Fox, Belluck & Fox LLP is a nationally recognized law firm specializing in cases of mesothelioma and asbestos, personal injury, and other forms of injustice. The firm represents clients across the United States based out of New York City with additional offices around the state in Albany, Rochester, and Woodstock, as well as Maine, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. They have secured over $1 billion in verdicts for their clients. For more information, visit www.belluckfox.com.
The Looming Health Crisis Among Quartz Countertop Workers
The Unseen Threat:
Quartz countertops have become synonymous with modern aesthetics and functionality, gracing countless homes and commercial spaces worldwide. However, beneath this seemingly innocuous industry lies a grave danger that has far-reaching implications for the health and well-being of the workers who craft these elegant surfaces.
The study’s findings paint a distressing picture: 52 countertop workers in California, primarily Latino immigrants, were diagnosed with silicosis, a debilitating and potentially fatal disease caused by inhaling silica dust. The time frame from 2019 to 2022 witnessed the emergence of this concerning trend, with at least ten workers succumbing to the disease. Shockingly, many of these cases progressed rapidly, leading to an urgent demand for enhanced protective measures and early diagnosis.
A Call for Action:
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that silicosis was previously thought to be a fading concern in the U.S., primarily affecting miners and individuals working with natural stone. However, the emergence of this alarming trend among workers dealing with artificial stone challenges our preconceived notions. Dr. Jane Fazio, a pulmonary specialist at UCLA Health and co-author of the study, emphasizes the necessity for immediate action to address the escalating crisis.
Dr. Fazio’s words ring true, especially considering the startling statistics surrounding the affected workers. The average age of diagnosis was just 45 years and nearly 60% experienced delayed diagnosis due to the confusion of symptoms with other respiratory illnesses. Nearly 40% were already at an advanced stage of the disease at diagnosis, underlining the urgency of early detection and intervention.
A New Perspective on Safety Measures:
The study also shed light on the prevailing safety practices within the industry. Fewer than half of the workers reported using water suppression techniques to minimize dust exposure. Similarly, only a fraction claimed to “always” wear masks, with the rest admitting to “sometimes” using them. These revelations underscore the dire need for regulatory agencies and employers to prioritize the safety and well-being of their workforce.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
The tragic cases highlighted in this study are a clarion call for change. As the demand for quartz countertops continues to rise, we cannot overlook the toll it takes on the individuals responsible for crafting these products. The findings compel us to reevaluate industry practices, enhance safety measures, and advocate for comprehensive changes prioritizing worker health over profit. It’s not just a matter of preventing silicosis but of human dignity and the fundamental right to a safe and healthy workplace. Let us heed this call for change and ensure that the silent danger lurking in the quartz countertop industry is confronted head-on.
Quartz Countertop Workers Lawsuit Attorneys Belluck & Fox
If you or a loved one worked in the quartz countertops industry and have been diagnosed with a health complication that can be linked to silica dust, please reach out to Belluck & Fox today for a free consultation.