A Harvard Law School graduate with four decades of experience handling sophisticated litigation, Phil is a powerful advocate for businesses as well as individuals in resolving critically important disputes. Phil’s long-standing leadership extends beyond the courtroom to key roles in influential bar associations, state and local politics, and community organizations.
Selected to the list of New York Super Lawyers for five consecutive years, he has extensive background with a wide variety of litigation. He developed strong foundational skills at two of the country’s largest law firms – Cravath, Swaine & Moore and Weil Gotshal & Manges – and has a strong track record handling a diverse array of jury and bench trials as well as appeals in state and federal courts.
Phil has particular experience representing business and individual clients in matters including First Amendment issues, copyright infringement, partnership disputes, securities fraud allegations, Section 1983 civil rights, and real estate-related litigation. He has also represented college students accused of misconduct, arguing forcefully for students’ rights to due process in major Title IX lawsuits against universities. Phil’s significant victories include a landmark libel case at the appellate level, an extensive property-related jury trial in New York State Supreme Court, a two-month federal securities fraud trial, and reversal of discovery sanctions in a breach of contract case in New York County Supreme Court.
In addition to his client commitments, Phil has assumed leadership roles in bar associations, politics, and local nonprofits. His bar association involvement includes more than 10 years helping to uphold high standards of practice in the legal profession as a member of the professional discipline committees for the New York State and New York City bar associations. He has long been active in politics, and has served as local and county committeeman and delegate to the Republican National Convention. A lifelong baseball fan, he has contributed his time over many years to youth and adult leagues in his community.
Phil is the proud father of two accomplished military sons: a U.S Army Major who served four tours of duty, and earned a Bronze Star for his service in Iraq; and a Wounded Warrior U.S. Marines Captain who earned a Purple Heart for his service in Afghanistan.