David R. Pfalzgraf Jr. '97

Segment Synopsis: Judge Henry Nowak interviews David Pfaltzgraf. Pfaltzgraf grew up in Buffalo on Auburn Avenue. Father was a practicing lawyer. Two siblings, an older sister, Robin, and younger brother Brendan who passed away 20 years ago at Fordham University (after being struck by a car). This brought David back to Buffalo to matriculate at UB Law School. Great, loving family and a terrific upbringing. Attended Elmwood Franklin, Nichols HS. Entered Navy on an ROTC scholarship from Miami University and served for 4 years in New Orleans, Pensacola, San Diego, before resigning his commission to go to law school in 1994. Applied to many law schools including as a judge advocate. Ultimately wanted to be in Buffalo and practice with his father. Why UB Law? Summer of '94, made an appointment with Alan Carrel who made a strong case for UB and the associated benefits. Time in Navy gave him worldly knowledge and discipline. Participated in the activities offered at the Law School. Jessup Moot Court Competition, which he won, and the mentoring received, competed in Toronto as a first year law student. Second year, participated and won the Desmond Moot Court competition with Judge Susan Etu Eagan. UB Law prepared him well for the practice of law. Classmates who left impression: Susan Eagan, Hank Nowak, Jim Grable, his study group: Craig Matanle, Liz Wolf, Matthew Fischer who are still friends. Other Moot Court partners Caroline Wojtaszek, Kristi Karle. Robert Murphy (Murph). Impressed by the quality of the students. Being a junior, his father's reputation and his name opened doors. Summer clerk at Hodgson Russ, Ken Shroeder, Hugh Russ,Tony Rupp. Formed a smaller firm with Tony Russ and Jeff Baase in 2000.

Keywords: Caliber of Students; Choosing UB Law School; Experience as Student; Family; Father; Internships; Law Faculty; Law Firms; Moot Court; Student Culture; UB Preparation; Undergraduate Education

Subjects: CAREER: MILITARY; EDUCATION; FAMILY HISTORY; UB LAW AS STUDENT

Segment Synopsis: Decision to open a firm. Had planned to join his father's firm and his father instead joined his as an in-counsel role. Since 2000, grew firm from 3 or 4 attorneys to over 60 lawyers, in 4 different cities in NYS. Recipe for business success. Challenges faced and strengths during pandemic. Transition and scaling to a full-service firm from a boutique commercial litigation firm to serve all of their clients needs and attracting top lawyers to work with them. Known as one of the kindest attorneys in Buffalo. Stays true to himself in his work with clients to achieve desired outcome. What he looks for in UB Law graduates. Quality of UB Law students and their ability to hit the ground running practicing law. Conclusion.

Keywords: Caliber of Students; Career / Professional Experience; Law Firms; Litigation

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE