Clarkstown Justice faces Democrat challenger

Clarkstown Justice Darren Epstein (R) is competing against Keith Braunfotel (D) this election cycle for the spot in Clarkstown’s judiciary branch. Town Justices serve four year terms beginning January 1st, and serve the public by conducting and managing arraignments, as well as presiding over small claims court, traffic violations, evictions, and misdemeanors. 

Braunfotel has lived in Clarkstown for over 25 years and is a New City native. His schooling has included Rockland Community College, New York University and Touro Law School. Braunfotel has served previously as a Prosecutor in Kings County District Attorney’s Office before he began representing New York police unions. Braunfotel is a past president of the Rockland County Bar Association as well as the New City Rotary Club, of which he has been an active member for over twenty years. Currently, Braunfotel works as a Defense Attorney and Partner at Braunfotel & Frendel in Clarkstown. He states that he “…is always focused on Clarkstown, while remaining justice-driven”. 

Epstein, who currently serves as the Town Justice in Clarkstown, is seeking to be reelected after being appointed to the seat in August of this year. This came following Judge Ascher’s vacancy when Ascher was appointed County Court Judge. Epstein has formerly served as a Deputy Town Attorney for the town of Clarkstown and is a Managing Partner of Epstein Legal Services in New City. Epstein is also a former Assistant District Attorney in Bronx County, and previously served as a pro-bono attorney for families affected by 9/11. His education includes the University of Maryland, College Park and University of Baltimore School of Law. Epstein states that “My goal is to keep Clarkstown safe and secure by upholding the law and serving our community with integrity”.

Early voting is now open and will continue through November 5th. Find your polling location at vic.ntsdata.com/home/Rockland.