Overview
In the face of complex, high-stakes litigation, clients turn to Michael Adelman for his experience, legal acumen and vision. His clients’ business objectives and goals are at the heart of his litigation strategy, and he uses that information to inform his case assessment and planning. Michael approaches potential litigation with a focus on limiting exposure to potentially serious risks and on resolving disputes efficiently.
Michael’s complex commercial litigation practice includes contractual and indemnification disputes, commercial real estate matters, property tax appeals on behalf of nonprofit entities, and high-end tax appeals for educational institutions and health care facilities. He also handles disputes relating to high-value estate litigation. Complementing his real estate work is Michael’s considerable experience with government property seizures, including questions regarding the use of eminent domain law.
In addition, Michael helps protect his clients’ reputations and finances, including in particular employment-related matters. Employers fighting withdrawal liability disputes under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) trust Michael’s thoughtful case evaluation, planning, and negotiation and mediation skills.
Michael has written on topics such as the timing of Litigation Hold notices, corporate parent-subsidiary issues under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) and the breadth of applications under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act.
Personal Interests
Michael enjoys extensive international travels, competitive squash and tennis.
Services & Industries
Credentials
Bar Admissions
New Jersey
New York
Court Admissions
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York
Education
Case Western Reserve University School of Law
J.D. (1982)
Columbia University
B.A. (1978)
Insights & Events
Leadership & Community
Pro Bono
- Ashrams for Autism
- The Relief Bus — New York City
- Pet Adoption League
Professional Associations
- New Jersey Bar Association
- American Bar Association, Litigation Section, Tort Trial and Insurance Section, Environmental Practice Section
Civic Activities
- Chester, NJ, Parks Master Plan Advisory Committee, Founding Member
- Chester, NJ, Board of Education, Past Member, Past President
Honors
- Case Western Reserve University School of Law — the Harlan Fiske Stone Medal for Oral Advocacy; the Dunmore Award for Brief Writing and Oral Advocacy, 1982