Richard D. Emery

Richard D. Emery is a founding partner of Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP, where his legal practice spans commercial litigation, civil rights, election law, and challenges to governmental action. Renowned nationwide, he has argued and litigated cases at every level of the U.S. legal system, including the U.S. Supreme Court, multiple federal courts of appeal, and numerous state courts. One of his most notable achievements was successfully challenging the structure of the New York City Board of Estimate at the Supreme Court, leading to its unanimous invalidation on constitutional grounds.

Richard earned his B.A. from Brown University in 1967 and his J.D., cum laude, from Columbia Law School in 1970. He was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar during law school, reflecting his academic excellence.

Early in his career, Richard worked at the New York Civil Liberties Union and led the Institutional Legal Services Project in Washington state, representing individuals in juvenile, prison, and mental health facilities. He also clerked for the Honorable Gus J. Solomon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. His vast experience includes teaching as an adjunct professor at NYU and the University of Washington law schools.

Beyond private practice, Richard D. Emery has held significant public roles. He chaired New York City’s Civilian Complaint Review Board, served on commissions addressing integrity and judicial conduct, and has long been active in historic preservation. His honors include the City & State NY’s Responsible 100 Award, Landmark West’s Unsung Heroes Award, and the Children’s Rights Champion Award. Recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2006 and listed in Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Civil Rights & Plaintiff Employment Lawyers in 2023, Richard continues to shape civil rights and public policy through his impactful legal work.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP
• Member, National Trial Lawyer
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York
• Washington

Education

• Columbia Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Brown University
  BA with Cum Laude

Awards & Badges