Yankwitt LLP
USA Guide 2023
Yankwitt LLP
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About
Yankwitt LLP is Westchester County’s go-to law firm for high-stakes, bet-the-company litigation. Located steps away from the federal and state courthouses in White Plains and exclusively staffed with senior attorneys who trained at prestigious New York City law firms and served as federal prosecutors and/or federal law clerks, Yankwitt LLP has built a reputation as the referral firm of choice for Am Law 100 firms based on our ability to consistently deliver work product and legal representation commensurate with the most reputable New York City law firms at more competitive Westchester prices.
With one of the largest litigation teams in Westchester County, Yankwitt LLP represents businesses and high-net-worth individuals across a broad range of matters. The firm routinely handles complex cases in Westchester on behalf of national law firms and often serves as trial counsel on high-stakes matters for other local law firms. Yankwitt LLP also leverages its attorneys’ extensive knowledge of the Westchester federal and state court judges and their practices as local counsel to national and out-of-state firms.
Yankwitt LLP handles civil and commercial litigations of all kinds, including contract disputes, partnership and shareholder suits, employment litigation, accounting and legal malpractice, and litigation issues relating to family law, trusts and estates, bankruptcy and real estate. The firm also represents individuals and corporations in government and white-collar crime investigations and prosecutions and internal investigations and serves as general counsel for Westchester, New York City, and national businesses.
The firm’s clients range in size from large Fortune 500 companies, including Landry’s LLC, pharmaceutical giant Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Hillstone Restaurant Group, Heineken USA, and others, to small local businesses. In addition to its White Plains headquarters, the firm has offices in Atlantic City, NJ, representing Fortune 500 companies, hotels, casinos, and national restaurants.
The firm has been retained on some of the highest-profile matters in the state, including representing Million Air in one of the largest litigations filed in Westchester County in the past five years (more than $30 million), Mavis Tire Supply in litigation related to the deadliest motor vehicle accident in the country in nearly a decade, and Walgreens as local counsel in the first opioid litigation in the U.S. to be tried to a jury. In addition, the firm’s White Collar Criminal Defense and Government Investigations Practice currently represents individual clients in high-profile matters related to the cryptocurrency and securities industries.
In addition to Chambers, the firm and its attorneys have been recognized by leading organizations and include Benchmark Litigation, Best Lawyers, Best Law Firms, Super Lawyers, BCW Hall of Fame Awards: Small Business Success and 40 Under 40, Westfair C-Suite Awards and Millennial Awards, 914 Inc. Best of Business and Women in Business and Best Companies to Work for in New York and Westchester.
Ranked Offices
Provided by Yankwitt LLP
- White Plains140 Grand Street, Ste 501, White Plains, New York, USA, 10601
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Yankwitt LLP rankings
Articles, highlights and press releases
40 items provided by Yankwitt LLP
Yankwitt LLP Named Fourth Best Small Company to Work for in New York
This is the fourth consecutive year the firm has appeared in the top 10. This recognition is a testament to the incredible team spirit and supportive culture we have cultivated over the past 15 years!
Yankwitt LLP’s Scott Wenzel Honored with Shining Star Award
Senior Associate Scott Wenzel received the Shining Star Award at Haub Law School’s 29th Annual Law Leadership Awards Dinner for his early career contributions to the legal field and community.
Russell Yankwitt Honored With the 2024 Westchester Changemakers Award
Russell Yankwitt and co-honorees will be honored at the Westchester Changemakers Award Ceremony on April 18, 2024, for their significant contributions to Westchester County.
Trials Occur in a Court”: SDNY Leads the Way on Strict Construction of FRCP 45(c)’s 100-Mile Limit
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure (“FRCP”) 45(c) restricts federal courts’ powers to compel testimony from a third-party witness in civil litigation to locations: (1) “within 100 miles of where the person resides, is employed, or regularly transacts business in person;” or (2) within the state of resi
Yankwitt LLP Strengthens Litigation Team with Addition of Waleska Suero Garcia
Yankwitt LLP welcomes Waleska Suero Garcia, a skilled attorney from Boies Schiller, to its White Plains office, bolstering its criminal defense and appeals practices with her wide-ranging trial and appellate background.
Retroactive v. Prospective Application of the 2020 NY Anti-SLAPP Amendments
NY's 2020 Anti-SLAPP law, favoring free speech, doesn't apply to pre-2020 cases, as affirmed by the Second Department, signaling a focus on future application.
Yankwitt LLP Scores Rarely Granted Extension to File Notice of Claim
Yankwitt LLP won approval to file a late Notice of Claim for a client whose hotel was flooded due to a neighboring city-owned lot's burst pipe, overcoming New York's strict filing deadline.
Yankwitt LLP Successfully Settles Contentious Family Dispute
Yankwitt LLP quickly settled a complex family estate dispute after filing for summary judgment, highlighting their strong brief writing and negotiation.
Yankwitt LLP Successfully Defends Legal Services of the Hudson Valley in Pro Bono Defamation Case
Yankwitt LLP’s pro bono team secured the complete withdrawal of a perjury and defamation case brought against the Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV) by a landlord who had been adverse to LSHV’s tenant client.
Yankwitt LLP’s Relentless Approach to Negotiations Yields Favorable Settlement for Restaurant Client
Yankwitt LLP, led by Russell Yankwitt and Michael Reed, achieved a multi-million-dollar settlement in a lease dispute, settling for under 5% of the initial demand after effective discovery.
Estop or Not to Estop: Second Department Analyzes DMV Address Update Effects
The Second Department clarifies that not updating your DMV address, as required by New York law, doesn't automatically prevent challenging service, with estoppel depending on case-specific facts, as shown in Castillo-Florez v Charlecius.
U.S. Second Circuit Certifies Jurisdiction Question to New York's High Court.
The U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals seeks clarity from New York's highest court on the "inherited jurisdiction theory" for cases involving acquisitions without formal mergers.
NY State Proposes Amendments to Labor Law Voiding All Noncompete and Restrictive Covenant Agreements
New York State Assembly approves NYLL Section 191-d, banning post-employment noncompete agreements, effective after approval, with potential legal action against violators.
New York Law Journal Publishes Article on Personal Jurisdiction in FLSA Collective Actions
Yankwitt LLP attorneys explore personal jurisdiction in FLSA cases, discussing the First Circuit's distinct view on opt-in plaintiffs' connections to the forum state in their recent New York Law Journal article.
Westchester Supreme Court Grants Late Motion to Amend Under NY CPLR 3025(b)
The Westchester County Supreme Court Commercial Division, guided by CPLR 3025(b), favors allowing late amendments in cases without surprise or prejudice, ensuring timely case resolution.
Second Department Rules Against Consolidation When One Action Faces Valid Dismissal Motion
A recent Second Department ruling mandates that for consolidation under CPLR 602(a), each action must be independently viable and not facing a valid motion to dismiss.
New York Law Journal Article by Yankwitt LLP Examines Recent Decision That Considers Damages Demand
The New York Law Journal article by Yankwitt LLP's Michael Reed analyzes a Southern District of New York case, determining if an employer's demand for damages in response to a discrimination claim constitutes retaliation under the FLSA or NYLL
Law360 Reports on How Yankwitt LLP Consistently Attracts Top-Tier Talent
Law360's interview with Yankwitt LLP's founder Russell Yankwitt and new partner Jason Swergold reveals the firm's appeal for top-tier talent, emphasizing trial opportunities and work-life balance as key attractions.
Yankwitt LLP Untangles Procedural Jumble to Show Client Was Not Properly Served
Yankwitt LLP secured case dismissal for a SOHO bar client due to improper service and expired statute of limitations in an assault and battery lawsuit.
Second Circuit Unanimously Affirms the Dismissal of All Claims Against Yankwitt LLP’s Client
Yankwitt LLP successfully defended the Irish Dancing Teachers Association of North America Mid-Atlantic Region in the Second Circuit, securing the dismissal of defamation and tortious interference claims.
What Makes a Wage and Hour Attorneys’ Fee Award “Reasonable”?
In a March 2023 ruling, Judge Philip M. Halpern of the Southern District of New York set a precedent by considering attorneys' fees over one-third of wage and hour settlements as unreasonable.
Celebrating Our 14th Anniversary with a Top 14 Countdown
On July 8th, marking our 14th anniversary, we celebrated this momentous occasion by highlighting 14 significant accomplishments.
NYC Council Approves Amendment to the Human Rights Law
NYC Council approves amendment to the Human Rights Law to include 'height and weight' as protected under the discrimination statute.
Yankwitt LLP Expands Litigation Team
Yankwitt LLP expands litigation team with former Manhattan Assistant District Attorney and federal law clerk Corey Briskin
Yankwitt LLP Recognized for the Third Year in Chambers USA's Top Commercial Litigation Firms
Yankwitt LLP, a leading Westchester law firm in high-stakes litigation, has been recognized for the third consecutive year in the Chambers USA ranking of top commercial litigation firms, with its founder Russell Yankwitt also selected in the Litigation: General Commercial category
Yankwitt LLP Wins Business Council of Westchester Small Business Success Award
Yankwitt LLP, a premier law firm in Westchester known for high-stakes litigation, was honored with the Business Council of Westchester Hall of Fame Award for Small Business Success, recognizing its exceptional performance and reputation in legal services.
Yankwitt LLP Honored as a Best Company to Work for in New York for the Third Year in a Row
Yankwitt LLP, a leading Westchester County law firm, has been named one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York for the third consecutive year, consistently ranking in the top 10 among small companies.
When to Hire Personal Counsel to “Shadow” Insurance Counsel
Consider hiring personal counsel alongside your insurance-provided lawyer if you risk personal liability beyond your policy's coverage or if the case is highly personal to you.
Yankwitt LLP Obtains Complete Defense Verdict at Arbitration and Then Wins Summary Judgment Motion
Yankwitt LLP achieved dismissal of all claims against a casino client, proving the plaintiff's alleged injuries were due to pre-existing health issues.
Yankwitt LLP Launches 2023-2024 Immediate Impact Scholarship at Pace Law School
Yankwitt LLP has initiated the 2023-2024 Immediate Impact Scholarship at Pace University aimed at supporting an incoming student of color with financial need and an interest in social justice.
Yankwitt LLP Named Fourth Best Small Company to Work for in New York
This is the fourth consecutive year the firm has appeared in the top 10. This recognition is a testament to the incredible team spirit and supportive culture we have cultivated over the past 15 years!
Yankwitt LLP’s Scott Wenzel Honored with Shining Star Award
Senior Associate Scott Wenzel received the Shining Star Award at Haub Law School’s 29th Annual Law Leadership Awards Dinner for his early career contributions to the legal field and community.
Russell Yankwitt Honored With the 2024 Westchester Changemakers Award
Russell Yankwitt and co-honorees will be honored at the Westchester Changemakers Award Ceremony on April 18, 2024, for their significant contributions to Westchester County.
Trials Occur in a Court”: SDNY Leads the Way on Strict Construction of FRCP 45(c)’s 100-Mile Limit
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure (“FRCP”) 45(c) restricts federal courts’ powers to compel testimony from a third-party witness in civil litigation to locations: (1) “within 100 miles of where the person resides, is employed, or regularly transacts business in person;” or (2) within the state of resi
Yankwitt LLP Strengthens Litigation Team with Addition of Waleska Suero Garcia
Yankwitt LLP welcomes Waleska Suero Garcia, a skilled attorney from Boies Schiller, to its White Plains office, bolstering its criminal defense and appeals practices with her wide-ranging trial and appellate background.
Retroactive v. Prospective Application of the 2020 NY Anti-SLAPP Amendments
NY's 2020 Anti-SLAPP law, favoring free speech, doesn't apply to pre-2020 cases, as affirmed by the Second Department, signaling a focus on future application.
Yankwitt LLP Scores Rarely Granted Extension to File Notice of Claim
Yankwitt LLP won approval to file a late Notice of Claim for a client whose hotel was flooded due to a neighboring city-owned lot's burst pipe, overcoming New York's strict filing deadline.
Yankwitt LLP Successfully Settles Contentious Family Dispute
Yankwitt LLP quickly settled a complex family estate dispute after filing for summary judgment, highlighting their strong brief writing and negotiation.
Yankwitt LLP Successfully Defends Legal Services of the Hudson Valley in Pro Bono Defamation Case
Yankwitt LLP’s pro bono team secured the complete withdrawal of a perjury and defamation case brought against the Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV) by a landlord who had been adverse to LSHV’s tenant client.
Yankwitt LLP’s Relentless Approach to Negotiations Yields Favorable Settlement for Restaurant Client
Yankwitt LLP, led by Russell Yankwitt and Michael Reed, achieved a multi-million-dollar settlement in a lease dispute, settling for under 5% of the initial demand after effective discovery.
Estop or Not to Estop: Second Department Analyzes DMV Address Update Effects
The Second Department clarifies that not updating your DMV address, as required by New York law, doesn't automatically prevent challenging service, with estoppel depending on case-specific facts, as shown in Castillo-Florez v Charlecius.
U.S. Second Circuit Certifies Jurisdiction Question to New York's High Court.
The U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals seeks clarity from New York's highest court on the "inherited jurisdiction theory" for cases involving acquisitions without formal mergers.
NY State Proposes Amendments to Labor Law Voiding All Noncompete and Restrictive Covenant Agreements
New York State Assembly approves NYLL Section 191-d, banning post-employment noncompete agreements, effective after approval, with potential legal action against violators.
New York Law Journal Publishes Article on Personal Jurisdiction in FLSA Collective Actions
Yankwitt LLP attorneys explore personal jurisdiction in FLSA cases, discussing the First Circuit's distinct view on opt-in plaintiffs' connections to the forum state in their recent New York Law Journal article.
Westchester Supreme Court Grants Late Motion to Amend Under NY CPLR 3025(b)
The Westchester County Supreme Court Commercial Division, guided by CPLR 3025(b), favors allowing late amendments in cases without surprise or prejudice, ensuring timely case resolution.
Second Department Rules Against Consolidation When One Action Faces Valid Dismissal Motion
A recent Second Department ruling mandates that for consolidation under CPLR 602(a), each action must be independently viable and not facing a valid motion to dismiss.
New York Law Journal Article by Yankwitt LLP Examines Recent Decision That Considers Damages Demand
The New York Law Journal article by Yankwitt LLP's Michael Reed analyzes a Southern District of New York case, determining if an employer's demand for damages in response to a discrimination claim constitutes retaliation under the FLSA or NYLL
Law360 Reports on How Yankwitt LLP Consistently Attracts Top-Tier Talent
Law360's interview with Yankwitt LLP's founder Russell Yankwitt and new partner Jason Swergold reveals the firm's appeal for top-tier talent, emphasizing trial opportunities and work-life balance as key attractions.
Yankwitt LLP Untangles Procedural Jumble to Show Client Was Not Properly Served
Yankwitt LLP secured case dismissal for a SOHO bar client due to improper service and expired statute of limitations in an assault and battery lawsuit.
Second Circuit Unanimously Affirms the Dismissal of All Claims Against Yankwitt LLP’s Client
Yankwitt LLP successfully defended the Irish Dancing Teachers Association of North America Mid-Atlantic Region in the Second Circuit, securing the dismissal of defamation and tortious interference claims.
What Makes a Wage and Hour Attorneys’ Fee Award “Reasonable”?
In a March 2023 ruling, Judge Philip M. Halpern of the Southern District of New York set a precedent by considering attorneys' fees over one-third of wage and hour settlements as unreasonable.
Celebrating Our 14th Anniversary with a Top 14 Countdown
On July 8th, marking our 14th anniversary, we celebrated this momentous occasion by highlighting 14 significant accomplishments.
NYC Council Approves Amendment to the Human Rights Law
NYC Council approves amendment to the Human Rights Law to include 'height and weight' as protected under the discrimination statute.
Yankwitt LLP Expands Litigation Team
Yankwitt LLP expands litigation team with former Manhattan Assistant District Attorney and federal law clerk Corey Briskin
Yankwitt LLP Recognized for the Third Year in Chambers USA's Top Commercial Litigation Firms
Yankwitt LLP, a leading Westchester law firm in high-stakes litigation, has been recognized for the third consecutive year in the Chambers USA ranking of top commercial litigation firms, with its founder Russell Yankwitt also selected in the Litigation: General Commercial category
Yankwitt LLP Wins Business Council of Westchester Small Business Success Award
Yankwitt LLP, a premier law firm in Westchester known for high-stakes litigation, was honored with the Business Council of Westchester Hall of Fame Award for Small Business Success, recognizing its exceptional performance and reputation in legal services.
Yankwitt LLP Honored as a Best Company to Work for in New York for the Third Year in a Row
Yankwitt LLP, a leading Westchester County law firm, has been named one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York for the third consecutive year, consistently ranking in the top 10 among small companies.
When to Hire Personal Counsel to “Shadow” Insurance Counsel
Consider hiring personal counsel alongside your insurance-provided lawyer if you risk personal liability beyond your policy's coverage or if the case is highly personal to you.
Yankwitt LLP Obtains Complete Defense Verdict at Arbitration and Then Wins Summary Judgment Motion
Yankwitt LLP achieved dismissal of all claims against a casino client, proving the plaintiff's alleged injuries were due to pre-existing health issues.
Yankwitt LLP Launches 2023-2024 Immediate Impact Scholarship at Pace Law School
Yankwitt LLP has initiated the 2023-2024 Immediate Impact Scholarship at Pace University aimed at supporting an incoming student of color with financial need and an interest in social justice.