For most CASA members, Paul McGrath needs no introduction. We know him by his regular seminar attendance since 1990, his service on a multitude of CASA committees and projects, his editorship of CQ, his prize-winning costumes and his wonderful wife, Kate. Paul's commitment to CASA reflects his commitment to his profession and community, all of which he serves with singular devotion, expertise and energy.

Paul graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo's law school, with great distinction, in 1985 and moved to Albany to work on our Court of Appeals' Central Legal Research Staff. Almost immediately, Paul became known here for his love of the law, his ability to cite cases from memory, his long work hours and his athletic prowess. At the end of this two-year clerkship, Paul joined the chambers of Senior Associate Judge Richard D. Simons, one of our Court's most revered and beloved Judges, for another two-year clerkship.

In 1989, Paul returned to Central Staff as the Senior Deputy Chief Court Attorney. Paul's special gift has always been his ability to infuse young attorneys with a passion for legal analysis and a loyalty to the Court. His skills and influence were such that, in the mid-90's, the entire Central Staff nominated Paul for a statewide merit achievement award. Paul served as the acting Chief Court Attorney in 1992-93, during my Judicial Fellows year in Washington and, in 1997, he succeeded me as the Chief Court Attorney, a position he has held ever since.

Paul plays as hard as he works, as is verified by anyone who has joined him on a softball field or skating rink -- he often comes to work bearing the marks of his role as a hockey referee. I will always regret not being there to see Paul bound into the arms of my friend Tom when Paul sunk a hole-in-one at Albany Muni Golf Course.

Paul is a student of Civil War battlefields and a lover of Irish culture and music. He serves as president of the parish council of St. James Church in inner-city Albany. Paul is a frequent and genial host of staff barbecues and dinners. Finally, Paul is a role model and friend to all who make his acquaintance.... including all of us in CASA!