Robert C. Gottlieb

Robert C. Gottlieb is the founder and managing partner of Gottlieb Townsend, a respected criminal defense firm based in New York City. With more than 40 years of experience, Mr. Gottlieb is known as a tireless and effective trial lawyer for people facing some of the most serious criminal charges. His career has covered major cases involving murder, rape, extortion, corruption, terrorism, money laundering, fraud, and federal and state tax crimes. He is highly sought after for his tenacity, strategic thinking, and dedication to achieving justice.

Mr. Gottlieb earned his B.S. from Cornell University in 1972 and received his J.D. from New York University School of Law in 1975. Early in his career, he served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, focusing on homicide prosecutions. He is admitted to practice in New York State, multiple federal district courts, the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the First and Second Circuits, and the United States Supreme Court. He also represents clients across the country through pro hac vice admissions.

Throughout his career, Mr. Gottlieb has focused on challenging wrongful convictions and advancing criminal justice reform. He spent more than a decade representing Jon-Adrian Velazquez, helping win his clemency and ultimate exoneration after 23 years of wrongful imprisonment. His work on this landmark case was featured in the 2024 MSNBC documentary series “Sing Sing Chronicles.” In addition, Mr. Gottlieb served on the New York State Bar Association’s Task Force on Wrongful Convictions, where he helped drive reforms to make the justice system fairer and more accountable.

A respected speaker, writer, and media analyst, Robert C. Gottlieb frequently appears on national news outlets to discuss legal issues. He is active in many professional associations, including the INBLF, Federal Bar Council, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2015, Mr. Gottlieb remains a trusted advocate for clients in New York and beyond.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder & Managing Partner, Gottlieb Townsend
• Member, New York State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, New York City Bar Association
• Member, Federal Bar Council
• Member, International Network of Boutique & Independent Law Firms (INBLF), NY Chapter
• Member, National Association of Distinguished Counsel
• Member, Nation’s Top One Percent Attorney’s
• Member, The National Trial Lawyers

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• New York University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Cornell University
  BS in Industrial & Labor Relations

Awards & Badges