Merino announces candidacy for judge

Niagara Wheatfield Tribune, February 22, 2006

Robert P. Merino

Robert P. Merino has announced his candidacy for Niagara Falls City Court judge.

Merino, an attorney and counselor at law with Merino & Merino in Niagara Falls, is the former town attorney for the Town of Niagara. While in that post, he drafted the first solid waste law regarding landfills and successfully defended it in State Supreme Court.

He also worked for the Love Canal Revitalization Agency as general counsel, where he successfully argued a case in the Appellate Division allowing resettlement of part of Love Canal by 250 families.

Merino is a registered Democrat and a lifelong resident of the city of Niagara Falls.

A graduate of John Carroll University and the Cleveland State University School of Law, Merino is a member of the New York State Bar Association, the American Trial Lawyers Association and the Erie and Niagara County Bar associations.

With more than 30 years practicing law with civil, criminal and municipal background, Merino has handled numerous civil jury trials at New York State Supreme Court, Niagara Falls City Court, and Niagara County Court. Merino has represented hundreds of children as a law guardian in Family Court in cases involving child custody, juvenile delinquents and parental rights. As an assistant district attorney for Niagara County and as defense counsel, Merino has had extensive felony trial experience in County Court and participated in numerous jury trials.

He is currently a defense attorney for private clients.

Merino is a volunteer attorney for numerous community organizations, including the incorporation of the Pine Avenue Business Association, Niagara Beautification Commission, the Niagara River Anglers and Lions Club.

Merino and his wife, Gail M. (Laurendi), have four children: Rocco R., David C., Lana Muoio, and Jaclyn Merino.