Senior Partner Michael S. Blustein and Partner Richard J. Shapiro, J.D., CELA, CAP have been presented with the Orange County Bar Association’s award for outstanding service and dedication to the Bar and the citizens of Orange County. The honor was presented at the OCBA’s annual business dinner on Thursday, June 4, 2026.
The recognition reflects the track record both men have built over decades of practice — skilled counsel in their respective areas, and consistent contributors to the local legal community.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by our peers,” said Senior Partner Michael Blustein. “But the reality of practicing law in a tight-knit community like Orange County is that your reputation isn’t built on a single case or transaction. It’s built over decades of showing up, handling complex matters with integrity, and ensuring the local Bar remains strong.”
Michael S. Blustein Michael began his legal career in 1992 at the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, in the Felony Narcotics and White Collar Crime Investigations units, before entering private practice in 1997. At BSF&B, he focuses on commercial real estate transactions, lender representation, zoning and land use, and business acquisitions. He has been named to the Upstate New York Super Lawyers list for six consecutive years, recognized as a Hudson Valley Magazine Top Lawyer, and previously served as President of the Middletown Bar Association.
Richard J. Shapiro, J.D., CELA, CAP Richard heads BSF&B’s Estate Planning, Probate, and Elder Law Department and is a Certified Elder Law Attorney — one of only 38 in New York State and the only one based in Orange or Sullivan County. He has appeared on the Upstate New York Super Lawyers list for 12 consecutive years and is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys’ Council of Advanced Practitioners. He has also chaired the Board of the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan Counties and served as a trustee of two local hospitals.
Congratulations to Michael and Richard on this well-deserved recognition.