Steve Buchman, a former partner, currently serves as our Ombudsman and Lawyer Advisor. As Ombuds, Mr. Buchman deals with issues including civility, harassment and discrimination, new employee evaluation practices, quality of life concerns, and other matters that any employee thinks require attention. Referral, mediation – even suggesting changes in our policy – are just some of the ways he seeks to resolve disputes that may arise in the workplace. Mr. Buchman’s goal is issue resolution through “off the record” discussion; he respects an individual’s concern for privacy and honors confidentiality, all hallmarks of the Ombuds' practice. As Lawyer Advisor, Mr. Buchman is available to discuss any aspect of a lawyer's professional concerns, particularly those relating to career and practice issues. These discussions are also held in the strictest confidence.

Mr. Buchman joined us in 1987 as a partner practicing real estate law, with an emphasis on representing lending institutions such as Chemical (now JP Morgan Chase) Bank and Barclays Bank in construction, interim and permanent loan financing and restructuring. In addition, he served on our recruitment committee and was coordinator of the summer associate program several times. When Mr. Buchman retired from active practice in June 1994, he became Of Counsel. In November of that same year, he joined Columbia Law School’s Career Services Office – where he continues to work – as a career consultant and counselor to both current students and alumni.