POUGHKEEPSIE – The Dutchess County Bar Association has honored six members who have been admitted to the bar for 50 years or more. Dutchess County District Attorney William “Bill” Grady was also recognized as the longest-serving district attorney in New York State. Grady is retiring at the end of the year to spend time with his family.
Retired Supreme Court Justice James Brands introduced Grady at a luncheon, recounting being a part-time assistant district attorney under then-District Attorney Alan Rosenblatt. Judge Brands noted that, at the time, there were only part-time assistant district attorneys who were also allowed to have a private law practice.
Brands noted that Grady had come to the office immediately following his service in the US Army where he reached the rank of captain and was honored with a Bronze Star. Before passing the microphone to Grady, Brands praised his friend for many programs now in operation at the DA’s office including the Dutchess County Drug Task Force, the Domestic Abuse Response Team, and the DWI Bureau.
Grady spoke of his working relationship with the county regarding the development of programs that address issues including substance abuse and mental health that lead to crime, including the diversion program. Grady took pride in telling the audience that the office has grown under his 40 years at the helm to a full-time staff of 39. Of those nearly 40 employees, the office has 20 female prosecutors and 12 male lawyers.
Attorney Robert “Bob” Butts was admitted to the bar in 1972 was recognized for his service to the profession and was introduced by fellow attorney Ian MacDonald. Attorney Barry Friedman marked 50 years of bar admission in 2021 and was introduced by Jaime Gianetta. John Gifford of Van DeWater and Van DeWater was recognized for reaching 50 years of service in 2021. Gifford was introduced by the Hon. Rebecca Mensch. Chester “Chet” Gordon was thanked for 50 years of service by his…
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