Bruce Cutler, the fiercely combative New York lawyer who became nationally known for defending John Gotti, has died at 77. Cutler's aggressive courtroom tactics and dramatic cross-examinations helped Gotti win acquittals in three high-profile trials, earning the mob boss the nickname 'the Teflon Don.' Cutler's style, dubbed 'Brucification,' made him a tabloid fixture and a controversial figure in legal circles. Despite his successes, Cutler was later barred from representing Gotti in the case that led to the mobster's conviction, after prosecutors argued Cutler was too closely involved with his client's activities.

Cutler's career was marked by flamboyant public statements and run-ins with the judiciary, including a criminal contempt conviction for defying a gag order. He also represented other high-profile clients and wrote a memoir about his legal battles. Cutler's personal life was tumultuous, and he was estranged from his family at the time of his death. His legacy remains tied to his larger-than-life presence in the courtroom and his unwavering loyalty to his clients.