By: Jeremy Murphy
For more than two decades, Marianne Bertuna has built a career defined by versatility, credibility, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. As Executive Partner at Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, she helps lead one of New York City’s busiest boutique law firms while maintaining a diverse practice that spans Surrogate Court matters, criminal defense, real estate, and wills and estates.
Whether she is protecting an estate from fraud, guiding families through difficult legal issues, or advising colleagues on a challenging criminal matter, Bertuna approaches every case with the same philosophy. “I am fueled by helping others,” she has said. “I appreciate the trust a client places in me, and I will use all of my ability and energy as an attorney to ensure that my client’s trust is well placed.” That commitment has earned her respect throughout New York’s legal community and established her as one of the firm’s driving forces.
A Career That Continues to Evolve
Bertuna devotes much of her practice to serving as Counsel to the Kings County Public Administrator in Brooklyn’s Surrogate’s Court, a prestigious appointment that reflects years of earned credibility. The position centers her in complicated estate matters, involving someone who has died without known next of kin or without family members willing to administer their estate. “My practice primarily became focused on Surrogate’s Court work, as well as real estate,” Bertuna said. “It’s a multifaceted position that keeps me busy every day.”
Bertuna oversees litigation and frequently responds to emergencies involving estate properties. One day may involve multiple real estate closings, while the next day could require immediate action against squatters illegally occupying a property awaiting distribution.
Her office also investigates suspected real estate fraud, ensuring that properties ultimately pass to their rightful heirs rather than individuals exploiting vulnerable situations. “We’re often dealing with situations where someone has tried to improperly take property,” she said. “We’re converting deeds back to the proper owner and making sure everything is done fairly.”
Built on Criminal Defense
Although her practice has evolved, Bertuna says criminal defense will always hold a special place in her heart. “My passion started with criminal defense,” she said. “It was exciting. I loved being in the courtroom every day.”
Representing clients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives taught her to think critically and remain calm under pressure. That courtroom experience serves her well in Surrogate Court, where unexpected emergencies regularly arise. “Being a litigator first prepared me to move quickly and make important decisions,” she explained. “Those skills carry over every single day.”
Her criminal law background also proves valuable when investigating fraudulent transactions involving estates. Earlier in her career, Bertuna handled one of New York’s largest real estate fraud cases during the mortgage crisis, an experience that now helps protect estates from similar schemes.
Beyond the courtroom and the writing desk, Bertuna is equally devoted to giving back. She was a long-time president of the Columbian Lawyers Association, 1st Judicial Department, an association she has remained close with, serving as Chairperson for the Department’s annual Charles A. Rapallo and Justice Antonin Scalia Awards Luncheon. In addition to these vital roles, Bertuna is a Trustee and Member on the boards of the Brooklyn Bar Association and the Kings County Criminal Bar Association, and a former member of the Attorney Grievance Committee of the Appellate Division, 2nd Department. To top it all off, she serves as a board member of the Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation.
Many Disciplines, One Mission
Along with heading the firm’s Wills, Trusts, and Estates Department, Bertuna continues handling sophisticated real estate matters and remains highly regarded in DWI defense. Recognized among the nation’s top 100 DUI attorneys by the National Advocacy of DUI Defense, she became known throughout New York as an authority on the area of law, teaching legal education courses and advising fellow attorneys.
Her knowledge of real estate began long before law school. “My family has always been in the real estate world,” she said. “I knew how to do a closing before I even became a lawyer.” Today, those skills naturally complement her estate practice, where many matters involve selling property as part of administering an estate. “It really became all of my worlds coming together,” she said.
A Family Firm with Shared Values
Working alongside her husband, renowned defense attorney Arthur Aidala, Bertuna helps lead a firm known for taking on difficult, high-profile cases. She believes their willingness to represent controversial clients stems from a deep respect for the Constitution. “Every American is entitled to a defense,” she said. The firm’s attorneys often accept cases others decline, confident that every story has more than one side. “I’ve always said the minute I become jaded in this profession is when I’ll change careers,” Bertuna said. “That has yet to happen.”
She credits the firm’s collaborative culture as one of its greatest strengths. “We’re a family,” she said. “Our clients know they matter. It’s not just a wheelhouse of rotating cases coming in and out.”
Looking ahead, Bertuna expects Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins to continue expanding its presence, particularly in federal litigation, while maintaining the scholarly, client-centered approach that has defined the firm.
For Bertuna, however, success is found in protecting families, preserving trust, and honoring the responsibility that comes with practicing law. “A lawyer is part of a profession,” she said. “It’s not just a job.”
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice. The views and information presented are intended to inform readers and should not be considered a substitute for guidance from a qualified professional.
