Michael N. Block is widely recognized as one of the Bar's preeminent authorities on fire-related litigation, with particular emphasis on personal injury claims for firefighters. For many years Mr. Block has been general counsel to the Uniformed Firefighters Association, the over 8,000 member labor union representing New York City firefighters. His vast experience on fire matters has brought about significant legal decisions which have expanded the legal rights and protection of firefighters. He has been instrumental in the drafting and passage of legislation protecting and expanding the rights of firefighters to seek damages for injuries suffered in the line of duty. On behalf of New York City's firefighters, he successfully fought to have Congress pass the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund. He then headed the Firm team that provided pro bono representation for 362 firefighters and their families in their claims with the Fund. Through Michael's tireless efforts, and those at the Firm who worked with him, we recovered more than $260 million from the Fund for our clients, all without charging any fee. Michael has been named in Super Lawyers magazine as one of the top lawyers in New York, and he has received the highest rating (AV®) from Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings.* A 1967 graduate of the Columbia University School of Law, he is admitted to practice in the state and federal courts of New York and New Jersey and has been a Member of the Firm since 1979. He remains active in matters dedicated to improving the working conditions and safety of our firefighters. Mr. Block is also active in charitable endeavors, serving on the Boards of several Fire Department-related charities and on the Board of the YAI, the National Institute for People With Disabilities.