Robert “Bob” Avallone devoted his distinguished legal career to litigation, professional and municipal liability defense, appeals, corporate practice, and insurance coverage. He began his career in 1979 with a Manhattan defense litigation firm and, in 1981, joined a large national law firm, where he rose to become Supervising Attorney of the New York Litigation Department. Over the course of his career, Bob was a respected lecturer, sharing his knowledge with public and private sector audiences on a wide range of coverage and litigation topics.

Bob also served as an approved Guardian Ad Litem and Receiver, and as Counsel to Receivers for the New York State Unified Court System. His practice spanned State, Surrogate’s, and Federal Courts throughout New York. He earned Martindale-Hubbell’s highest “AV” rating and was recognized by Long Island Pulse Magazine as a Top Legal Eagle in Suffolk and Nassau Counties for litigation and insurance coverage.

He was admitted to practice in New York State and the United States District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York in 1980, the Northern District of New York in 1997, the United States Supreme Court in 2001, and the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in 2002. Bob was an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the Defense Research Institute, the Nassau County Bar Association, and the Nassau-Suffolk Trial Lawyers Association, among others.

Bob earned his Juris Doctor from St. John’s University School of Law in 1979 and received a Bachelor of Science in Management Science and Economics, cum laude, from the State University of New York at Geneseo in 1976.

As Managing Partner of Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP from its founding in 1993 through his retirement in 2019, Bob was instrumental in shaping the firm into what it is today. Under his leadership, the firm grew from fewer than ten attorneys to a thriving practice of more than seventy, expanding its capabilities while building a strong reputation for excellence. His vision, discipline, and unwavering commitment established a culture of mentorship, professionalism, and integrity that continues to define the firm. Despite the demands of his practice, Bob was deeply committed to mentoring young attorneys. Many began their careers under his guidance, benefiting from his wisdom, patience, and generosity—qualities that left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him.

Bob’s leadership extended beyond the firm. He served on the Board of Directors for the SUNY Geneseo Foundation, was a former member of the Board of Governors for the New York State Unified Court System Attorney-Client Dispute Resolution Program, and was an active member of the Centerport United Methodist Church. He was dedicated to his community, offering his time, support, and generosity to causes and organizations he believed in.

Above all, Bob was a devoted husband to his wife, Linda, and a proud father to Stephen Avallone (partner Laurel Rodman) and Jaclyn Avallone-Bertrand (husband Wes Bertrand). He was a loving grandfather to Abigail Rodman-Avallone, Dominic Bertrand, and Carmen Bertrand. He spoke often of his family, whose accomplishments and happiness brought him immense pride and joy.

Sadly, Bob passed away in January of 2026 after a remarkable life and career defined by leadership, service, and integrity. He leaves an enduring legacy at Lewis Johs and within the broader legal community. He will be deeply missed and long remembered.