As a trial lawyer, the firm’s other senior partner, Frank Durkan has established an excellent reputation as an advocate on behalf of injured plaintiffs in negligence and malpractice cases. He has also involved himself in civil rights matters primarily with respect to Irish-Americans who had come into conflict with the law by reason of the problems in Northern Ireland.

He has written various articles for the local Irish-American news media dealing with the British mal-administration of affairs in Northern Ireland and has repeatedly spoken out against the unlawful occupation of Irish soil by the British forces.

Mr. Durkan has appeared in many courts throughout the country, including Federal Courts in Texas, Louisiana, New Orleans, Georgia, Florida, Maryland, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire and New York.

He gained international headlines in his successful defense of George Harrison, one of the “Brooklyn Five” in 1982 and likewise successfully led the fight for Desmond Mackin who defeated Great Britain's extradition request in 1981. The opinion in favor of Mackin rendered by Magistrate Naomi Buchwald (Southern District, New York) is considered by many legal experts to be a landmark decision in the field of Extradition Law.

Mr. Durkan is the current Chair Person of A.N.I.A. (Americans for a New Irish Agenda). The organization had close contacts with the Clinton-Gore Administration and was monitoring the Administration's continuing interest in Irish affairs. It was mainly because of the efforts of A.N.I.A. that President Clinton issued the visa to Gerry Adams and it has maintained considerable pressure on the Administration and Congress in an effort to bring about a peaceful resolution in Northern Ireland.

Education

Attended Columbia University and graduated with a Degree in Bachelor of Arts

Graduate of the New York Law School

Achievements

Active member of the Mayo
Society of New York

A Trustee of the Irish Institute of New York

A Trustee of the Mayo Foundation for the Handicapped

Represented the Mayo Football Club of New York as a delegate to the Gaelic Athletic Association

Presently serves as President of the Mayo Football Club of New York

Current Chairman of A.N.I.A.
(Americans for a New Irish Agenda)

Extensive work with the Irish Government, the White House, and members of Congress to shape American Policy during the critical peace process

Contact Information

fdurkan@odblaw.com