Hon. Jeffrey Lebowitz (Ret.)

Justice Jeffrey D. Lebowitz has spent most of his legal career as a member of the judiciary. With over 21 years on the bench, he has served as a Judge in several different courts throughout the City and State of New York. Self described as a “settler by natural instinct”, and an avid supporter of Alternative Dispute Resolution, it is a natural progression for him to apply those skills in the mediation and arbitration setting.

Appointed to the bench by former Governor David A. Paterson and Mayors David N. Dinkins, Rudolph W. Giuliani and Michael Bloomberg, Judge Lebowitz spent the majority of his time serving as an Acting Supreme Court Justice in the Civil Parts of the Supreme Court, Queens County. During this time, he handled an extensive calendar of diverse civil matters with at least 50% of his caseload comprised of Medical Malpractice cases. He regularly presided over complex medical malpractice cases involving damages in the multi-million dollar range. In addition to medical malpractice cases, he presided over a varied caseload of complex litigation including labor law, torts, products liability, insurance disputes, zoning, real estate and matrimonial matters.

Well regarded by those attorneys who appeared before him, the 2013/2014 New York Judge Reviews describe him as “…fair and neutral.” Interviewees “…praised his legal knowledge and negotiating skills” stating “They’re very good” and “‘He’s street-wise and very capable’ in this area.” Others said “He’s got great judicial temperament”… “You’re lucky to be in front of him”…. and “Judge Lebowitz listens closely to their arguments and keeps an open mind“. Prior to stepping down from the bench, he was given the highest recommendation by the Independent
Judicial Screening Committee of the Second Department.  Since his retirement Judge Lebowitz has been “special counsel” to a prominent Long Island firm where he is a member of the Litigation and Family Law departments. As an active practitioner, he has appeared frequently in both state and federal courts. His caseload has been comprised of complex commercial litigation and family law matters.

As a mediator and arbitrator with NAM, Judge Lebowitz is available to hear all forms of commercial litigation.