Berlandi Nussbaum & Reitzas LLP Founding Partner Jay Nussbaum Passes Away at 58

It is with a very heavy heart that we inform friends and colleagues of the passing of one of our founding partners – Jay Nussbaum. Jay helped found Berlandi Nussbaum & Reitzas LLP (“BNR”) in 2011 with his friends, Brian L. Berlandi and Joshua T. Reitzas, and in these short 7 years, was an instrumental part of growing the firm to over a dozen attorneys, three offices and named as a Superlawyers law firm.

Jay was not only an astute lawyer, but was also a devoted husband, father, brother, son, and friend. We all personally witnessed his intense legal mind, insightful business acumen, and dedication to his many clients, all of whom were fortunate to have received Jay’s advice and wisdom.  Each one of us at BNR learned so much from Jay, both professionally and personally, by observing his dedication to the practice of law, his devotion to family, and his loyalty to friends.

Jay’s commitment to his family was unrivaled. He was devoted to his wife of 26 years, who was the love of his life. He always took the time, despite his busy schedule practicing law and growing the firm, to love and mentor his two sons, as well as many of their friends, all of whom love basketball as much as Jay did.  His proudest moments were witnessing his sons’ accomplishments, especially on the basketball court.

What set Jay apart, more than anything else, was his tenacity, generosity, sense of humor, and versatility.  Jay’s professional experience extended far beyond the practice of law, encompassing business, entrepreneurship, arts, and academics. Over the course of his career, Jay served as General Counsel for three companies, as CEO to one, as a lawyer in a large Manhattan firm, and finally as a founding partner of BNR. Personally, Jay was a prolific and gifted writer who published two novels. He was also a sixth degree Karate black belt and loved coaching, playing, and watching his sons play basketball.

All of us, as well as so many of his friends and family, can look back fondly on a particular conversation or interaction with Jay, delighting in his endless sense of humor and thoughtful perspectives on life and the law. We will miss Jay greatly, but all of us at BNR will continue his legacy of a firm that recognizes the practice of law requires more than exemplary professional capabilities, but also a genuine commitment to others.

In honor of Jay Nussbaum, donations may be made to the Lustgarten Foundation, whose mission is to advance scientific and medical research related to the diagnosis, treatment, cure, and prevention of pancreatic cancer. 

https://www.lustgarten.org/