In a notable move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has selected seasoned litigator Randy Mastro to steer the city’s law department. Mastro, currently a partner at King & Spalding, has a rich history in public service, having served under former Mayor Rudy Giuliani from 1994 to 1998 as chief of staff and deputy mayor for operations.
As the newly appointed corporation counsel, Mastro will oversee the New York City Department of Law, representing the mayor’s office, city agencies, and the city council in all civil litigation. The nomination, however, hasn’t come without controversy. The New York City Council’s Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus previously expressed concerns about Mastro’s professional history, labeling his representation of certain clients as questionable. Despite this, prominent legal figures, including former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch, have voiced their support.
Mastro has actively engaged with city council members, seeking to secure broad-based approval. He expressed gratitude for the endorsements he’s received from the legal community and various union leaders, including the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York.
The city council is expected to deliberate on Mastro’s nomination within 30 days of its formal submission. If confirmed, Mastro will take over from acting corporation counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant, who stepped in following Sylvia Hinds-Radix’s departure in May.
Mastro’s legal career includes significant cases such as defending former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie during the infamous George Washington Bridge lane closure scandal and representing Chevron in a high-profile U.S. litigation concerning an environmental judgment in Ecuador. His move to King & Spalding in 2022 marked a new chapter in his illustrious career, with the firm recently extending its best wishes for his future endeavors.
