Benjamin Brafman

Benjamin Brafman is an American criminal defense attorney and founder of the Manhattan-based law firm Brafman & Associates.[1] Brafman is known for representing many high-profile defendants, including celebrities, accused Mafia members, and political figures. Brafman grew up in Brooklyn and Belle Harbor, Queens, a son of Holocaust survivors. Brafman's family fled from Europe to Cuba on their way to the United States just before World War II.[2] He went to a Yeshiva High School and took night classes at Brooklyn College, majoring in anthropology and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree.[1][2] Brafman received his Juris Doctor with distinction from Ohio Northern University College of Law.[3][1] He also earned an LL.M. from New York University School of Law.[4] In May 2014, Brafman was awarded an honorary degree by Ohio Northern University College of Law.[5] After graduating from law school and being admitted to the New York State Bar in 1975, Brafman worked for a criminal defense firm for two years, then became an Assistant District Attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney's Office. In 1980, Brafman started his own law firm in Manhattan.[1] Brafman slowly established his reputation as a celebrity lawyer through a series of high-profile cases. Notable clients have included: