HARRISBURG, Pa. (March 7, 2023) – Pennsylvania Bar Association President Jay N. Silberblatt has issued the following statement condemning acts of violence against lawyers and judges:
“On February 28, attorney Gaetan Alfano, past chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association, was violently attacked and struck with a blunt object while on the street outside his Philadelphia office. It has been alleged that the attacker was the brother of a litigant who has interests adverse to clients represented by Mr. Alfano. It appears that the attack was in retaliation for Alfano’s representation of his clients.
“This egregious attack on our colleague is yet another incident demonstrating a flagrant disregard for human life and the rule of law.
“Our justice system requires that lawyers and judges be able to perform our duties without fear of violence, threats and intimidation meant to stifle our critical work.
“We wish Mr. Alfano a full and speedy recovery and hope that this appalling incident will lead to discussions about the creation of a safer and more civil community.”