MacDonald R. Drane IV is a Senior Associate Attorney at Slater Slater Schulman, where he represents survivors of childhood sexual abuse in claims involving institutional negligence and liability under New York’s Child Victims Act and Gender-Motivated Violence Act–as well as personal injury litigation.

MacDonald’s 11 years of prosecutorial experience features complex felony cases involving child sexual abuse, domestic violence, serious physical injuries, and fatal motor vehicle collisions. He is a dedicated, compassionate, and tenacious advocate who combines meticulous preparation and strategic litigation with a client-centered approach. He believes effective representation begins with listening, earning trust, and ensuring clients feel heard, informed, and supported throughout the legal process.

Prior to joining the firm, MacDonald served as an Assistant District Attorney with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office for 11 years, where he worked in both the Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Bureau and the Vehicular Crime Bureau. He investigated and prosecuted serious felony matters involving sensitive witness testimony, complex medical and forensic evidence, and extensive investigations. Throughout his prosecutorial career, MacDonald developed substantial trial and courtroom experience,  conducting jury trials, examining witnesses, litigating evidentiary issues, and presenting complex evidence before judges and juries. His extensive work with survivors, medical professionals, forensic specialists, and law enforcement investigators further informs his approach to representing clients in complex and sensitive matters.

Among his professional accomplishments, MacDonald received the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office Distinguished Service Award. He also successfully prosecuted numerous serious felony matters, including serving as a trial prosecutor in the conviction of a former elementary school teacher for multiple felony offenses involving the sexual abuse of former students. That prosecution helped secure accountability for survivors who had waited decades for justice.

MacDonald received his B.A. in Political Science from Gettysburg College and his J.D., summa cum laude, from Touro Law School, where he served as Research Editor of the Law Review, authored a published case note examining the Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and was an Oralist in the Trial Advocacy & Practice Honor Society. He joined the Slater Slater Schulman team in 2026 and is admitted to practice in New York and the United States District Court of the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York.

Outside of his legal practice, MacDonald enjoys supporting local youth sports and extracurricular activities and contributing to his community.

Admitted:

• New York State Courts
• United States District Court, Eastern District of New York
• United States District Court, Southern District of New York

• Child Sexual Abuse

• Juris Doctor Degree – Touro Law School
• B.A. in Political Science – Gettysburg College