Philip Gulisano
Education.
- University of Akron School of Law, J.D., 1996
- University at Buffalo, B.A. Political Science, 1993
Admitted to practice.
- State of New York
- United States District Court—Northern and Western Districts of New York
Get to know Phil.
The foundation under lasting relationships.
Phil Gulisano has a simple philosophy about courtroom success.
“It’s not about who’s the better attorney. It’s about who’s better prepared,” he says. “For every hour spent in trial, it takes ten hours or more to prepare for it.”
It’s simple, but that doesn’t make it easy.
Phil’s perspective on complex litigation reflects his preparation-focused philosophy. Major cases aren’t won through courtroom theatrics but through the work done beforehand—understanding every detail, anticipating every challenge, assembling every piece to achieve the right outcome. Phil approaches each case with a clear-eyed assessment of what it will require, then commits fully to delivering exactly that—knowing what it’s going to take, and being willing to give it.
That approach has shaped not just his nearly 30-year legal career but his approach to supporting the community, forming friendships, and building something that lasts.
Growing up in Buffalo, experiences with community support programs showed Phil the impact that dedicated neighbors can have on families who need someone looking out for them. That understanding motivated decades of involvement, from supporting community outreach programs as volunteer director on the Amherst Youth Board to ongoing engagement with local politics.
Contact.
Email:
pgulisano@mullinsmcdonnell.com
Direct phone number:
716-936-7901 ext. 110
That understanding of how meaningful connections develop over time would prove foundational to Phil’s career. At the University of Akron School of Law, where he graduated cum laude, Phil shared an apartment with Mullins McDonnell partner Rob Mullins. Though at different stages of their education, they initially bonded over their shared experiences and values from growing up in Buffalo. That foundation has supported a decades-long friendship.
The cornerstone of that long-lasting connection, whether between friends, colleagues, or clients, is communication.
“If you’re not letting your client know what you’re doing, they’re going to assume the worst,” he says. Transparency is necessary to build the understanding and the trust that allow clients to weather difficult challenges with confidence.”
At Mullins McDonnell, Phil brings decades of experience as the steady foundation that helps associates flourish. His approach to mentoring younger attorneys reflects his understanding that today’s unique legal environment, where impersonal video sessions have replaced more collegial courtroom settings, requires more intentional guidance and relationship building. Phil sees this responsibility as both professional obligation and personal commitment to building something sustainable.
As the father to two teenage boys (and a rescue terrier, Frankie), Phil continues to live the values that have guided his professional career. Whether it’s a big case, a meaningful project, or an important relationship, it all takes work. You get out what you put in—but you get even more when you give back.
