David A. Kalabanka

David A. Kalabanka is a seasoned trial attorney and partner at Michaels Bersani Kalabanka, P.C., in Auburn, New York, where he concentrates exclusively on personal injury and medical malpractice litigation. Early in his career, he served as a partner in a well-regarded insurance defense firm in Syracuse, New York.

There, Mr. Kalabanka immersed himself in the tactics and procedures that insurance companies use to assess, negotiate and defend claims. Today, he draws upon that insider expertise to “turn the tables” on defendants’ carriers, driving significant verdicts and settlements on behalf of his injured clients.

A lifelong resident of Central New York, Mr. Kalabanka graduated magna cum laude from Syracuse University’s School of Management before earning his Juris Doctor from the Syracuse University College of Law. He remains deeply committed to his community and takes pride in raising his family in Upstate New York. His professional accolades include membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and recognition in the Best Lawyers in America.

Mr. Kalabanka is equally honored to belong to “the Rogues,” an invitation-only consortium of injury attorneys who steadfastly represent the interests of individuals and families rather than insurers or corporate defendants. He describes this network as “a virtual firm of hundreds of dedicated advocates across the state,” whose collective insights and strategy sessions have sharpened his skills and enriched his approach to each case.

Active in bar and trial organizations, Mr. Kalabanka serves as vice president of the Upstate Chapter of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association (NYSTLA) and is a member of the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers and the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA).

Despite Mr. Kalabanka's high regard for the jury system, he prefers to battle in the New York State Court of Claims, where he confronts the state's sovereign power directly. He sees the Court of Claims as a prime forum led by thoughtful, even-keeled judges and he attributes his accomplishments there to careful case selection, steady diligence, and – now and then – a touch of luck.