Joseph Solomon '27

The Joseph Solomon Distinguished Professorship of Law was established by family and friends of Mr. Solomon, who was highly regarded as an expert in estate law, to honor his extraordinary personal and professional accomplishments. Two other funds at the Law School bear his name: The Rita and Joseph Solomon Professorship in Wills, Trusts and Estates, currently held by Professor William LaPiana;  and the Joseph Solomon Public Service Fellowship, awarded each year by the Law School to deserving students.

Dr. Solomon was born on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, left school at an early age to help support his family, and eventually worked as a messenger at the firm of Leventritt, Cook, Nathan & Lehman, an environment that inspired him to pursue law as a career.

Dr. Solomon attended New York Law School as an Evening Division student, working during the day, and graduated in 1927. After admission to the bar, he joined the legal staff of the firm he had served as a messenger, becoming a partner in 1948, and rising to senior partner in 1966. At the time of his death in 1986, he was of counsel to Gallet, Dreyer & Berkey.

A generous and active philanthropist, Dr. Solomon was instrumental in providing funds to leading arts, educational, and medical institutions.

Among other honors, Dr. Solomon received honorary degrees from New York Law School and Bar-lian University in Israel, and the Horatio Alger Award for his rise from humble beginnings.