Mayor Adams’ top City Hall lawyer quits as federal investigations intensify

Hizzoner's in-house attorney steps down after one year

The departure of Brendan McGuire, a trusted confidant, is the latest sign of turmoil

Mayor Eric Adams' top City Hall lawyer is stepping down after about one year on the job, the latest sign of turmoil in an administration facing federal investigations.

Brendan McGuire, the corporation counsel, informed Adams of his decision in a letter submitted Thursday, saying he wanted to return to the private sector.

McGuire, a trusted confidant who played a key role in Adams' transition, was a controversial pick given his lack of government experience.

McGuire's departure comes as Adams faces increasing scrutiny of his fundraising and outside income

His departure comes as Adams is facing increasing scrutiny of his fundraising and outside income, with the U.S. Attorney's office for the Southern District of New York reportedly investigating.

Adams has denied any wrongdoing, but the investigations have cast a shadow over his administration.

Adams has sought to downplay the significance of McGuire's departure

Adams, through a spokesperson, sought to downplay the significance of McGuire's departure, saying he had offered to stay on until a replacement is found.

But the loss of such a high-profile lawyer is a blow to Adams, who has already seen a number of other top aides depart.

McGuire's departure is a blow to Adams, who has faced a number of high-profile controversies

Among those departures are his press secretary, his communications director and his chief of staff.

Adams has faced a number of other high-profile controversies, including his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his use of taxpayer money to pay for a security detail for his family.