Daniel Salcito

Daniel (Dan) Richard Salcito, 70, passed away peacefully at home on October 10, 2010 with his family by his side. He was born in Waterbury, CT, April 29, 1940. After graduating from Georgetown University and Boston College Law School, he moved to Arizona in 1965 with his wife Anita (Briotti). Daniel began his legal career as a prosecutor with the United States Attorney’s Office in Phoenix and he practiced law in Arizona until his retirement in 2006. During his distinguished law career, he was a partner in the law firm of Hofmann, Salcito & Stevens until 2003 and then he became Of Counsel to the firm of Plattner Verderame, P.C. until his retirement. In addition to family activities and ranching, Daniel dedicated his life to law, civic affairs and politics. He was a member of many legal and civic groups including: The Arizona Association for Justice/Arizona Trial Lawyers Association (President); State Bar of Arizona (Chairman, Trial Practice Section); Western Trial Lawyers Association (President); American Association for Justice (Arizona Delegate to the Board of Directors); Certified Specialist in Injury and Wrongful Death Litigation by the Board of Legal Specialization, State Bar of Arizona; Trial Lawyers for Public Justice; American Board of Trial Advocates; American Arbitration Association (Panel Member); Maricopa County Bar Association (Board of Directors); Phoenix Trial Lawyers Association (President); Million Dollar Advocates Forum; Morris K. Udall Forum (Board of Governors and President); Arizona Policy Forum (an institute for bipartisan public policy research of Arizona’s natural resources and related issues; founding member and Chairman of the Water Committee which published a significant policy paper on the history and concerns about water issues in the State of Arizona). Dan was active in the Democratic Party on the national, county and state level. He was Chairman of the Arizona Democratic Party Finance Committee. He met with Former President Clinton, Vice President Gore, and frequently was called upon by United States Senators regarding policy issues. Dan limited his practice to tort litigation and specialized in significant damages cases, especially products liability and medical malpractice. He was recognized by his peers for being a strong and caring advocate for his clients and will forever be remembered for his hard work and dedication on behalf of others. Dan was also active in the Arizona Cattle Grower’s Association in conjunction with his Prescott ranch, where he pursued his lifelong dream of cattle ranching. Dan devoted his life to the search for justice in the law; he loved the State of Arizona and ranching. He was passionate about spending time on the family ranch especially with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Anita; children: Dan, Justin (Dawn) and Sabrina Salcito Hicks (Stephen) and 8 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers and sister: Thomas (Maria Elena), Anthony (Donna), Donald (Catherine) and Mary Lou Muccino (Fred). A memorial service will be held Sunday, October 17, 2010 at 5 p.m. at Messinger Mortuary, 7601 East Indian School, Scottsdale, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.