A History of Partnership with the Uniformed Firefighters Association

Sullivan Papain Block McGrath Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. celebrates a long and storied history working side-by-side with the brave members of the Uniformed Firefighters Association (UFA). Here, our attorneys detail this special partnership and record of advocacy for our city’s heroes. 

A Brief History of the Uniformed Firefighters Association (UFA)

The UFA is a non-profit New York City Firefighters advocacy group formed in 1917 to protect and represent the health and safety of those in the line of duty. For over 100 years, the UFA has sought to advocate for fair wages, legal protections, good working conditions and benefits for firefighters in New York City. They also have a mission to cultivate fellowship among its members and foster lasting traditions. Over the years, the UFA has grown to represent 8,000 union members in total, growing each year.

SPBMCC’s Lasting Partnership with the UFA

Our firm began our partnership with the Uniformed Firefighters Association in the early 1980’s, handling firefighter injury litigation and representing the families of those whose lives were taken in the line of duty. In 40 years of representation, our position as General Counsel to the Uniformed Firefighters Association has led to millions of dollars in damages recovered to help alleviate the pain and suffering of firefighters and their families.

SPBMCC joined forces with the UFA because, after years of experience representing firefighters in fire-related litigation, we are intimately aware of the hazards placed on our city’s bravest. Often, these dangers are avoidable and occur due to faulty, defective or inadequate building maintenance that has resulted in a preventable fire, or defective fire equipment that inhibited firefighters from carrying out their duties. 

The UFA and 9/11

When the terrorist attacks occurred on 9/11, firefighters were one of the first groups to bravely run towards the danger instead of away from it. Firefighters continue to be a group that suffers the most from the aftereffects of those tragic events, both physically and mentally. Inadequate protective equipment during search and rescue efforts encircled by asbestos-laden debris has led to an influx of 9/11-related illnesses that still plague first responders today.  

From 2002-2003, the years immediately following the tragic events, SPBMCC attorneys recovered more than $265 million for 363 firefighters seriously injured or killed as a result of the 9/11 attacks. The recoveries were made through the first September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, and the firm charged no legal fees. Today, our firm continues to closely work with the UFA on 9/11-related illness matters and represents victims and their families who suffer debilitating health conditions like lung cancer and respiratory disease. 

About the Firm

SPBMCC is a leading representative for injured firefighters and their families in New York City, having recovered a total exceeding $1 billion for firefighters who have been injured, or for the families of firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty as a result of another’s negligence. If you or a loved one is a first responder who suffers the effects of a 9/11-related illness or another fire-related injury, do not hesitate to reach out to a member of our team by clicking here.   You can also learn more about the UFA by clicking here. 

SPBMCC has been there since the beginning and continues to extend our legal counsel and support to those who need it most. To reach out to our attorneys, call (212) 732-9000 for a free consultation.