Karen Friedman Agnifilo is a highly accomplished attorney with over three decades of legal experience, specializing in criminal defense, litigation, internal investigations, and civil matters. As Of Counsel at Agnifilo Intrater LLP, Karen is widely recognized for her expertise in handling complex, high-stakes cases, her leadership in the legal field, and her commitment to justice. Her professional journey, marked by significant contributions to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the New York City Mayor’s Office, has solidified her reputation as a trusted advisor and fierce advocate.
Karen Friedman Agnifilo Professional Background
Karen Friedman Agnifilo’s distinguished legal career spans over 30 years, during which she has held pivotal roles in both the public and private sectors. Her tenure includes leadership roles in criminal justice, policy-making, and litigation, all underscored by her dedication to justice and equity.
Chief Assistant District Attorney – Manhattan District Attorney’s Office (2014–2021)
Karen served as the Chief Assistant District Attorney in one of the most prominent prosecutor’s offices in the country. In this role, she oversaw all aspects of the office’s work. This includes managing a team of approximately 500 lawyers and overseeing the prosecution of thousands of cases each year. Her responsibilities included supervising complex cases ranging from violent crimes to white-collar offenses. She also ensures the effective implementation of office policies and strategies.
During her time as Chief ADA, Karen played a critical role in the creation and leadership of several specialized units, including:
- Human Trafficking Unit: Focused on combating exploitation and supporting survivors.
- Hate Crimes Unit: Addressing crimes motivated by bias and prejudice.
- Antiquities Trafficking Unit: Recovering stolen cultural heritage.
- Mental Health Court: Spearheading innovative approaches to address mental health issues in the criminal justice system.
Her leadership extended to handling high-profile and sensitive cases, including complex homicides and cases involving mental health components. As Acting District Attorney in the DA’s absence, she ensured the office’s smooth operation and maintained its commitment to public safety and fair prosecution.
General Counsel on Criminal Justice Policy – New York City Mayor’s Office (2006–2010)
Karen was instrumental in shaping New York City’s criminal justice policies under Mayor Michael Bloomberg. As General Counsel, she managed multi-agency initiatives, coordinated policy reforms, and contributed to legislative efforts that improved public safety and justice for New Yorkers. Her work in this capacity demonstrated her ability to navigate complex legal and policy landscapes while balancing diverse stakeholder interests.
Assistant District Attorney – Manhattan District Attorney’s Office
Earlier in her career, Karen dedicated 14 years to serving as an Assistant District Attorney in Manhattan. During this time, she held key positions, including Deputy Chief of the Sex Crimes Unit. Her work involved prosecuting challenging cases in the Homicide Investigation Unit, Family Violence and Child Abuse Bureau, and Asian Gang Unit. These roles provided her with extensive trial experience and a deep understanding of the intricacies of criminal law.
Transition to Private Practice
In 2021, Karen transitioned to private practice, joining her husband, Marc Agnifilo, at Agnifilo Intrater LLP. Together, they lead a firm renowned for its focus on criminal defense, civil litigation, and sensitive internal investigations. Karen’s private practice includes:
- Representing individuals and corporations in federal and state criminal cases.
- Advising plaintiffs in civil and employment matters.
- Handling Title IX investigations and related cases in academic and professional settings.
- Conducting internal investigations involving misconduct, discrimination, and sexual harassment.
Karen’s deep knowledge of the New York criminal justice system, coupled with her strategic and empathetic approach, has earned her the trust of clients navigating challenging legal situations.
Karen Friedman Agnifilo Notable Cases
One of Karen’s most high-profile recent cases will be representing Luigi Mangione, a suspect in the 2024 fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Drawing on her extensive experience, Karen has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring her clients receive a fair trial and justice is served. Her work on this case will further highlight her skill in managing sensitive and complex criminal cases with professionalism and expertise.
Media and Public Engagement
In addition to her legal practice, Karen is a prominent voice in the legal community and media. She frequently appears as a legal analyst and commentator on major television networks, including CNN, where she offers expert insights on high-profile cases and emerging legal issues. Her ability to distill complex legal matters into accessible commentary has made her a trusted source for viewers and journalists alike.
Karen also co-hosts a popular podcast on the MeidasTouch Network. In it, she discusses legal developments, high-stakes litigation, and broader implications for the justice system. Her podcast serves as a platform for educating the public on legal processes and fostering informed discussions about justice and equity.
Her role as a legal advisor for the television series “Law & Order” further reflects her expertise and influence in shaping public understanding of the legal system.
Education and Bar Admissions
Karen Friedman Agnifilo earned her Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center, one of the nation’s premier law schools. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Her academic foundation has equipped her with a strong analytical and practical understanding of the law.
She is admitted to practice law in the state of New York, as well as in the United States District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York.
Karen Friedman Agnifilo Personal Life
Karen is married to Marc Agnifilo, a fellow attorney and partner at Agnifilo Intrater LLP. The couple met while working at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and married in 1996. Together, they have three children and share a passion for justice and legal excellence.
Their partnership extends beyond their personal lives into their professional collaboration, where their combined expertise provides unparalleled representation for their clients.
Advocate for Justice and Leadership
Karen Friedman Agnifilo’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to justice, her leadership in the legal profession, and her ability to navigate complex legal and policy challenges. From her work prosecuting violent crimes and leading policy reforms to her current role as a private practitioner and media commentator, Karen has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and fairness.
Karen Friedman Agnifilo Recognition and Legacy
Karen Friedman Agnifilo’s contributions to the legal profession have earned her widespread respect and recognition. Her innovative approaches to addressing systemic challenges, including mental health in the justice system and combating human trafficking, have left a lasting impact on the communities she has served.
As an attorney, mentor, and advocate, Karen continues to inspire her peers and future generations of legal professionals. Her profile on LawsuitProcess.com reflects her exceptional qualifications and dedication, providing clients and colleagues with a comprehensive view of her career and expertise.
Whether guiding clients through sensitive legal matters, shaping public discourse on legal issues, or mentoring aspiring lawyers, Karen Friedman Agnifilo exemplifies the highest standards of the legal profession.
