BY: Keith S. Shikowitz, Investigative Reporter
Judge Darren Epstein is committed to continuing his work as Clarkstown justice. He is running for re-election this November, driven by what he says, is a genuine commitment to fairness and community service.
Epstein, who was appointed to replace former Clarktown Justice David Ascher, faces off against Democrat Keith Braunfotel this election day.
Epstein’s journey to the bench began in Baltimore County, Maryland, where he grew up with his father, a liquor store owner. However, it was a family friend, a personal injury attorney, who first sparked his interest in law. “I went to see a trial with my friend, whose father was a lawyer, and became infatuated with the law,” he recalls. That early exposure set him on a path toward the legal profession.
After graduating with a degree in political science from the University of Maryland at College Park, Epstein was drawn further into the world of law through a constitutional law class. He had the unique opportunity to visit the Supreme Court and witness Justices Thurgood Marshall and William Rehnquist in action. “Watching them argue cases, and later seeing how they debate each case around a round table in their library, was an incredible experience,” he shared. “That day solidified my decision to pursue law.”
Following an internship at his friend’s father’s law firm, Epstein’s passion for law was cemented, and he went on to study at the University of Baltimore Law School, where he graduated and continued on his path toward a career dedicated to justice.
Today, as he seeks re-election, Judge Epstein reflects on his commitment to serving Clarkstown, the community where he has lived for 26 years and raised his family.
Epstein views his role as justice as a means to make a meaningful impact on local issues. “After years of litigation, I’ve always been interested in serving on the bench,” Epstein said. “Being a justice here in Clarkstown is a great opportunity for me to help the community any way I can. It allows me to address various community issues—whether it’s misdemeanor crimes, town code violations, traffic enforcement, or building code issues. All of these things affect the community as a whole, and being part of this community is why I want to serve.”
Epstein shared his perspective on the role of a judge in ensuring justice is served. “Our job is to listen to both sides, to hear what the litigants have to say, and to assess the credibility of their stories,” he said. “It’s about understanding how the law impacts each case. I’m effectively sitting in judgment of the parties before me, and my role is to ensure that everyone has a fair chance to present their case. If it’s a bench trial, I’m the one making that determination. Otherwise, I’m there to oversee the introduction of evidence and to ensure fairness for both sides.”
Epstein said his dedication to Clarkstown is rooted in his belief that a judge’s role is to serve the community by maintaining a fair, balanced courtroom. As he seeks re-election, Epstein said he aims to continue applying his experience and principles to foster justice and integrity on the Clarkstown bench.
Before becoming a judge, Epstein served as Deputy Town Attorney for the Town of Clarkstown, where he handled town code violations, building and fire code violations, and traffic enforcement, among other responsibilities. His transition to the bench came unexpectedly when he received a call after David Asher’s advancement. “They were looking for someone to step in, someone who would be willing to run as a Republican, and I was asked. I accepted,” Epstein said.
“What sets me apart,” he said, “is my diverse background. I’m a former prosecutor from the Bronx and have also served as Deputy Town Attorney. My career has given me a broad understanding of both criminal and civil matters.” Beyond his courtroom experience, Epstein’s work as a litigator has involved numerous high-stakes cases, including cases under the Child Victims Act and the Adult Survivors Act, advocating for survivors of abuse.
Braunfotel, who seeks to unseat Epstein, is a New City native and Clarkstown resident for more than 25 years, He is a graduate of Rockland Community College, New York University, and Touro Law School. He has served as a prosecutor in the Kings County District Attorney’s Office and has represented New York police unions.
Braunfotel is a past president of the Rockland County Bar Association and the New City Rotary Club, where he has been an active member for more than two decades.