Family, friends, colleagues, and communities across New York and the nation are mourning the passing of Paul J. Napoli, an accomplished trial lawyer whose extraordinary career was matched only by his devotion to his family and his unwavering commitment to helping others. His death marks the loss of a respected legal advocate, a compassionate humanitarian, and a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend.
Throughout a distinguished legal career spanning more than three decades, Paul dedicated his life to representing individuals and communities seeking justice against powerful institutions. A graduate of Fordham University, St. John’s University School of Law, and Lewis & Clark Law School, where he earned a Master of Laws in Environmental Law, he built a national reputation as one of the country’s leading trial attorneys. Admitted to practice before numerous state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court, Paul earned widespread respect for his integrity, relentless preparation, and unwavering pursuit of accountability.
His work shaped some of the nation’s most significant litigation. Paul played leading roles in representing victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks, communities impacted by the Flint water crisis, governments pursuing accountability during the opioid epidemic, and public water systems affected by PFAS contamination. As Co-Lead Counsel in the AFFF multidistrict litigation, he helped secure more than $15 billion in settlements for drinking water providers across the United States. Earlier in his career, he also helped lead groundbreaking litigation involving the Fen-Phen diet drugs, advocating for patients harmed by dangerous pharmaceutical products.
Among the accomplishments closest to his heart was his advocacy for first responders following the September 11 attacks. Appointed as Co-Liaison Counsel representing more than 11,000 rescue and recovery workers, Paul helped secure settlements exceeding $900 million and worked tirelessly to support legislation, including the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, ensuring long-term healthcare and compensation for those who sacrificed so much in the aftermath of the attacks. His dedication continued through his service on the Board of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, preserving the legacy of those lost while honoring the courage of survivors and first responders.
Beyond the courtroom, Paul remained deeply committed to environmental justice, public service, and education. Together with his wife, he established the Environmental Justice Laboratory at NYU School of Law, supporting communities confronting environmental inequities while preparing future generations of lawyers to pursue meaningful change. His professional excellence earned numerous honors throughout his career, yet those closest to him knew that recognition was never his motivation. His greatest reward came from helping people whose voices might otherwise have gone unheard.
Despite his remarkable professional success, Paul always considered his family to be his greatest achievement. He shared an enduring partnership with his wife, whom he met while attending St. John’s University School of Law. Together they built a loving family, an internationally respected law practice, and a life grounded in shared purpose, compassion, and mutual respect. As a father, he celebrated every milestone in his children’s lives, encouraged their dreams, and taught them that true success is measured by the lives we improve along the way.
Friends and loved ones remember Paul as someone whose generosity extended far beyond his legal work. He was the first person family and friends turned to during difficult times, always willing to offer advice, encouragement, financial assistance, or simply a listening ear. While known in the courtroom for his fierce advocacy, those closest to him knew him as a gentle, thoughtful, and deeply caring man whose greatest joy came from seeing others succeed.
Following his passing, tributes have poured in from clients, fellow attorneys, judges, colleagues, friends, and community leaders, all honoring a man whose career transformed countless lives. His legacy will endure not only through the landmark cases he argued and the laws he helped shape, but also through the compassion, integrity, and courage that defined every aspect of his life.
Visitation for Paul J. Napoli will be held at The Fairchild Chapel, 1570 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset, New York, on Tuesday, July 7, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 8, at 10:15 a.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 1300 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset, followed by entombment at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale.
Paul J. Napoli leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of justice, compassion, and service. Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his example will continue to inspire generations of lawyers, advocates, family members, and friends. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and never forgotten.