Office Alumni
During their years in the Office, Assistant District Attorneys gain wide experience in investigative, trial, appellate, and administrative work. This experience is widely recognized as providing a solid foundation for a career in public service or the private sector. A roster of the Office's alumni reads like a "who's who" of outstanding trial lawyers and prominent public officials, including federal judges, several Justices of the Appellate Division and numerous state trial court judges, as well as District Attorneys, federal, state, and city agency heads, elected officials, and eminent litigators in private practice. In addition, former Assistant District Attorneys are represented in corporate legal departments, accounting firms, financial institutions, and investigative firms. [See where Assistant District Attorneys have worked after leaving the Manhattan DA's Office] (.pdf file opens in new window)
Alumni often remark upon the great opportunities for professional growth, unusual responsibility, and constant challenge they had during their tenure in the Office. Assistant District Attorneys feel a sense of commitment to their work and camaraderie with each other that is rarely found in any job or profession.
"I can think of no better place to develop your judgment and your skills or to meet people of enormous talent and character. I am constantly reminded how much the Manhattan DA's Office provided me with great experience, and even more importantly, life-long friends."
Executive director and legal counsel at major pharmaceutical company
"The most important aspect of public service is integrity - a commitment to do the right thing. This principle is the single most important lesson that I took from my time as an Assistant District Attorney."
Executive official at government agency
"As an Assistant District Attorney I gained significant trial experience. In the private sector this is a rare and valued skill."
Associate at large New York law firm
"As an Assistant District Attorney I had an opportunity to examine the facts dispassionately, exercise judgment, and make decisions. These skills are exactly what I do now. In terms of substance, fulfillment, and the opportunity for professional growth, it was one of the best jobs of my life."
Criminal Court Judge
"As an Assistant District Attorney you are given a lot of responsibility. You have to be able to parse the facts, and constantly make difficult decisions. This develops good leadership skills, and these qualities are admired in the corporate world."
Corporate Secretary and legal counsel at a major corporation and former ADA