Linklaters Pro Bono Team Secures Special Use Permit Approval for Rebuilding of Saddle Rock Minyan Synagogue

Linklaters is proud to announce that its U.S. trial practice successfully represented Saddle Rock Minyan Synagogue on a pro bono basis in securing a special use permit to rebuild its house of worship at 115 Greenleaf Hill in Saddle Rock, New York—the site of its former synagogue, which was tragically destroyed by fire on Yom Kippur night in 2024.

The approval marks a significant milestone for the congregation and the broader community. It follows more than sixteen months of delay in the local land use process. Linklaters advocated on the synagogue’s behalf, including by preparing to file a federal lawsuit and presenting at a public hearing on February 4. The firm asserted that the prolonged inaction raised serious concerns under the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), as well as the United States and New York State Constitutions.

The Linklaters team was led by Adeel A. Mangi, Muhammad U. Faridi, Aviva Kushner, Peter Vogel, Matthew Cofer, and Alex Prior.

Faridi stated:

“The approval allows the Saddle Rock Minyan community to take an important step forward after a difficult year.  We appreciate the Village’s decision to grant the permit and look forward to continued cooperation as the congregation rebuilds its house of worship and restores a vital community institution.”

Saddle Rock Minyan member Joseph Yaakovzadeh said:

“This approval is a turning point for the Saddle Rock community.  For more than a year after the fire, congregants—including many elderly and disabled members—have been forced to pray in private basements and improvised spaces, or to forego attending Sabbath and holiday services altogether.  We look forward to rebuilding a safe and dignified house of worship.”