Law Offices of Stephen Verbit, Fort Lauderdale, FL (2026)

02/14/2024

Wire Transfer Fraud: A Growing Threat to Law Firms

Wire transfer fraud is a significant issue affecting many industries, including law firms. This type of fraud occurs when a scammer poses as a party in a transaction and sends fraudulent wiring instructions that divert funds from their rightful owner or recipient⁵.

The Scam Scenario

The scam typically involves a compromised email account from one or more parties to a real estate or commercial transaction¹. The scammer assumes the identity of a party to the transaction and uses an email address that appears to be from the legitimate sender¹.

The scammer will typically provide wire instructions or make some change to a previous wire transfer request¹. To circumvent normal channels that might uncover a fraud, the scammer will emphasize that "time is of the essence," and that this matter is "urgent"¹. The attorney will then wire out the money for the closing which can be hundreds of thousands of dollars to the scammer's account¹.

The Impact on Law Firms

If an attorney inadvertently facilitates the wire transfer of funds to a bad actor who has hacked into opposing counsel’s email account, the attorney may be held liable and/or his client may have to fund a settlement twice⁴. In the United States alone, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports that as much as $1.33 billion have been lost to fraudsters¹.

Mitigating the Risks

Wire fraud scams present real risks for attorneys. These risks may be mitigated by staying up to date on common scams targeting attorneys, implementing cybersecurity measures, and instituting wire transfer protocols that include verifying wiring instructions by telephone before wiring any funds³.

Conclusion

Wire transfer fraud is a serious issue that law firms must address. By understanding the nature of these scams and taking proactive steps to prevent them, law firms can protect themselves and their clients from becoming victims. Remember, the best defense against wire transfer fraud is a good offense: stay informed, be vigilant, and always verify before you wire.

Sources:
(1) Wire Transfer Fraud Best Practices - NHBA. https://www.nhbar.org/wire-transfer-fraud-best-practices.
(2) Email wire fraud scam affecting lawyers and law firms. https://www.hanover.com/resources/tips-individuals-and-businesses/prepare-now-learn-how/email-wire-fraud-scam-affecting.
(3) Attorney Liability for Wire Fraud Involving Settlement Payments. https://lewisbrisbois.com/attorney-liability-for-wire-fraud-involving-settlement-payments.
(4) Wire Fraud Scheme Targeting Attorneys Presents Ethical and Liability .... https://ceflawyers.com/blog/wire-fraud-scheme-targeting-attorneys-presents-ethical-and-liability-risks/.
(5) Fraudulent Wire Transfers: Who Bears the Loss and How to Prevent .... https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/fraudulent-wire-transfers-who-bears-the-5578842/.

02/14/2024

The Top Ten Most Common Types of Fraud

In today's digital age, fraud has become an increasingly prevalent issue. With the rise of online transactions and digital communications, fraudsters have found new ways to deceive unsuspecting victims. Here are the top ten most common types of fraud you should be aware of:

1. Imposter Scams
Imposter scams involve someone pretending to be someone else. This could be a supposed loved one in distress, a government official, or a potential romantic partner. The scammer typically requests money or personal information.

2. Online Shopping Scams
Online shopping scams often involve fake retail websites or ads on legitimate retail sites. Scammers trick consumers into purchasing nonexistent products or services.

3. Mail Fraud
Mail fraud involves the use of postal services to commit fraudulent activities. This could involve sending scam letters or stealing someone else's mail.

4. Driver’s License Fraud
Driver’s license fraud involves the unauthorized use of another person's driver's license. This can be used to commit identity theft or other fraudulent activities.

5. Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud involves the misuse of insurance information for personal gain. This could be committed by individuals, insurance providers, or medical offices.

6. Debit and Credit Card Fraud
Debit and credit card fraud involves the unauthorized use of another person's card information. This can be used to make purchases or withdraw funds without the cardholder's consent.

7. Bank Account Takeover Fraud
Bank account takeover fraud occurs when a fraudster gains access to a victim's bank account and makes unauthorized transactions.

8. Stolen Tax Refund Fraud
Stolen tax refund fraud involves the use of someone else's Social Security number to falsely file tax returns. The fraudster then collects the victim's tax refund.

9. Investment-related Fraud
Investment-related fraud involves scams related to investments. Victims are often promised high returns on their investments, only to lose their money.

10. Prizes, Sweepstakes, and Lotteries Fraud
Prizes, sweepstakes, and lotteries fraud involve scams where victims are told they've won a prize. However, they must pay a fee or provide personal information to claim it.

Remember, the best way to protect yourself from fraud is to stay informed, be skeptical of unsolicited communications, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Stay safe!

02/14/2024

Examples of Corrupt Actors in Government and the Private Sector

Corruption is a cancer that eats away at the fabric of society, eroding trust, undermining institutions, and perpetuating inequality. While we often hear about high-profile corruption scandals, it's essential to recognize that corrupt actors exist at various levels—both within government and the private sector. Let's explore some notable examples:

Corruption in the Private Sector:

1. Commercial Bribery and Kickbacks:
- Scenario: A company executive pays a procurement officer to sway decisions in favor of their company during contract bidding.
- Impact: This undermines fair competition and distorts the market.

2. Embezzlement:
- Scenario: A CFO misappropriates company funds for personal gain.
- Impact: It weakens the company's financial health and harms shareholders.

3. Insider Trading:
- Scenario: A corporate insider trades stocks based on confidential information.
- Impact: It undermines market integrity and disadvantages other investors.

4. Collusion:
- Scenario: Competing companies secretly agree to fix prices or allocate markets.
- Impact: Consumers pay higher prices, and fair competition suffers.

5. Money Laundering:
- Scenario: A multinational corporation hides illicit funds through complex financial transactions.
- Impact: It perpetuates criminal activities and weakens financial systems.

Corruption in Government and Politics:

1. Bribery and Kickbacks:
- Scenario: A politician accepts bribes from lobbyists to influence legislation.
- Impact: It undermines democratic processes and erodes public trust.

2. Nepotism and Cronyism:
- Scenario: A government official appoints family members or close friends to key positions.
- Impact: It undermines merit-based systems and perpetuates inequality.

3. Conflict of Interest:
- Scenario: A legislator votes on a bill that directly benefits their private business.
- Impact: It compromises impartial decision-making.

4. Illicit Wealth Accumulation:
- Scenario: A high-ranking official amasses wealth through corrupt means.
- Impact: It perpetuates poverty and weakens governance.

5. Influence Peddling and Lobbying:
- Scenario: Corporations fund political campaigns to sway policies in their favor.
- Impact: It distorts policy priorities and favors special interests.

Conclusion: Breaking the Cycle

Accountability is the antidote to corruption. We must demand transparency, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and hold all actors—whether in government or the private sector—responsible for their actions. Only then can we build a culture of integrity, fairness, and trust.

Remember, corruption affects us all. Let's be vigilant, expose wrongdoing, and work collectively to create a world where corrupt actors face justice. 🌐🔍

---
References:
1. [Forms and Manifestations of Private Sector Corruption | UNODC](https://www.unodc.org/e4j/en/anti-corruption/module-5/key-issues/forms-and-manifestations-of-private-sector-corruption.html)
2. [United States Strategy on Countering Corruption | The White House](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/United-States-Strategy-on-Countering-Corruption.pdf)
3. [Corruption, Economic Private Development, and Governance: Sector](https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/477311468162556560/pdf/380430Private11ion0Issue1201PUBLIC1.pdf)
4. [25 corruption scandals that shook the world | Transparency International](https://www.transparency.org/en/news/25-corruption-scandals) 🌟

(1) Forms and manifestations of private sector corruption. https://www.unodc.org/e4j/en/anti-corruption/module-5/key-issues/forms-and-manifestations-of-private-sector-corruption.html.
(2) NITED STATES TRATEGY ON OUNTERING ORRUPTION - The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/United-States-Strategy-on-Countering-Corruption.pdf.
(3) Corruption, Economic Private Development, and Governance: Sector. https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/477311468162556560/pdf/380430Private11ion0Issue1201PUBLIC1.pdf.
(4) 25 corruption scandals that shook the world - News. https://www.transparency.org/en/news/25-corruption-scandals.

02/14/2024

The Culture of Impunity: Why Holding Corrupt Actors Accountable Matters

In the intricate web of governance and commerce, accountability serves as the bedrock upon which trust, justice, and societal well-being rest. When high-level actors in government and the private sector evade consequences for their transgressions, a dangerous precedent is set—one that reverberates throughout society. Let's delve into why accountability matters and how its absence fosters a culture of corruption.

1. The Erosion of Trust
When those entrusted with power and influence escape accountability, public trust erodes. Citizens begin to question the fairness of the system. Why should they follow the law when the elite seem immune to its reach? The erosion of trust undermines social cohesion, weakens institutions, and perpetuates cynicism.

2. The Ripple Effect
Corruption at the top sends shockwaves through society. When leaders engage in unethical practices without repercussions, it trickles down. Employees, students, and everyday citizens observe this behavior and internalize it. The message becomes clear: "If they can get away with it, so can I."

3. The Broken Social Contract
Accountability is the glue that binds the social contract. When leaders violate laws and norms without consequences, the contract fractures. People lose faith in the system's ability to protect their rights and interests. The result? A disillusioned populace that questions its obligations to society.

4. The Perceived Double Standard
Imagine a scenario: A high-ranking official embezzles funds, yet faces no legal repercussions. Meanwhile, a common citizen caught stealing faces jail time. This glaring double standard fuels resentment. Why should ordinary people uphold the law when the privileged escape unscathed?

5. The Reinforcement of Corruption
Unchecked corruption begets more corruption. When influential figures engage in bribery, fraud, or abuse of power, it signals to others that such behavior is acceptable. The cycle perpetuates itself, corroding the moral fabric of society.

6. The Role of Transitional Justice
Transitional justice—addressing past abuses and ensuring accountability—is crucial. Truth commissions, tribunals, and other mechanisms hold perpetrators responsible for crimes committed during conflicts. Without this reckoning, impunity festers, hindering reconciliation and perpetuating cycles of violence¹.

7. Protecting Evidence
Preserving evidence of crimes—genocide, war crimes, and atrocities—is essential. International forces and experts must safeguard evidence to ensure future prosecutions. Premature recovery by non-professionals risks compromising its validity¹.

Conclusion: Breaking the Cycle
Accountability isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. When corrupt actors evade justice, they weaken the very foundations of society. To break the cycle, we must demand transparency, strengthen institutions, and hold all—regardless of status—accountable for their actions. Only then can we rebuild trust, restore the social contract, and foster a culture that upholds the rule of law.

Remember: A society that tolerates impunity today pays the price tomorrow. Let us champion accountability—for our sake and generations to come. 🌟🔍

---
*References*:
1. [Accountability to the Law | United States Institute of Peace](https://www.usip.org/guiding-principles-stabilization-and-reconstruction-the-web-version/rule-law/accountability-the-law)
2. [Accountability for gross violations is an obligation - UN expert](https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2021/10/accountability-gross-violations-obligation-un-expert)

Sources:
(1) Accountability to the Law | United States Institute of Peace. https://www.usip.org/guiding-principles-stabilization-and-reconstruction-the-web-version/rule-law/accountability-the-law.
(2) Accountability for gross violations is an obligation - UN expert. https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2021/10/accountability-gross-violations-obligation-un-expert.
(3) Details on Transparency Internationals 2022 CPI Report. https://www.natlawreview.com/article/fcpa-and-anti-money-laundering-whistleblowers-can-play-vital-role-combatting.
(4) Promoting Accountability: State and Federal Officials Shouldn’t Be .... https://www.americanprogress.org/article/promoting-accountability-state-federal-officials-shouldnt-law/.

02/14/2024

Beware of Telemarketing Scams: Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Calls

Telemarketing scams continue to plague unsuspecting individuals, preying on their trust and vulnerability. These fraudulent calls can lead to financial losses, identity theft, and emotional distress. As a savvy consumer, it's crucial to recognize common telemarketing scams and take proactive steps to safeguard yourself. Here are the top five scams to watch out for:

1. Threatening Calls from the IRS
Scammers often pose as IRS agents, claiming that you owe back taxes or face legal consequences. They use fear tactics to pressure victims into immediate action. Remember these key points:
- The IRS never demands payment over the phone. Legitimate communication primarily occurs through mail.
- If you receive such a call, hang up and independently verify your tax status with the official IRS channels.

2. Technical Support Impersonators
Fraudsters pretend to be tech support representatives from reputable companies like Microsoft or Apple. Here's how they operate:
- They claim your computer has a virus or security issue.
- To "fix" the problem, they ask for remote access to your computer or request payment for fake services.
- Never grant remote access to unknown callers, and don't pay for unsolicited tech support.

3. **Beware of Fake Charity Appeals
Scammers exploit people's generosity by pretending to represent charitable organizations. Stay vigilant:
- They call, asking for donations using high-pressure tactics.
- Always verify charities independently before donating. Research their legitimacy and check their credentials.

4. **Lottery Scams: You've Won!
These calls promise lottery or sweepstakes winnings. Be cautious:
- Scammers claim you've won a prize but need to pay upfront fees or provide personal information to claim it.
- Remember that legitimate lotteries **don't require payment** to receive your winnings.

5. **Family Members in Peril
In this emotional scam, fraudsters pretend to be distressed family members (often grandchildren) facing urgent situations:
- They claim they're in trouble (e.g., arrested, hospitalized) and need money immediately.
- Always **verify such calls independently**. Contact other family members to confirm the situation before taking any action.

Protect Yourself: Tips and Best Practices
-Screen Calls: Let unknown numbers go to voicemail. Scammers often hang up if they reach an answering machine.
- Don't Share Personal Information: Never give out sensitive details like Social Security numbers, credit card information, or passwords over the phone.
- Register for the Do Not Call List: Add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce unwanted telemarketing calls.
- Stay Informed: Educate older family members about these scams, as they are often targeted.

Remember, knowledge is your best defense against telemarketing scams. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and protect yourself from these deceptive calls. 🚫📞

02/01/2024

The Cultural Toll of Economic Capitalism: Profit Maximization and Its Negative Impact on American Society

Introduction

The economic landscape of the United States has long been shaped by the principles of capitalism, with individuals considered as profit-maximizing economic units. While capitalism has undoubtedly spurred economic growth and innovation, the emphasis on profit maximization has taken a toll on American culture and society. This article explores how the capitalist idea of individuals solely as profit-driven entities has contributed to the erosion of values, increased inequality, and a strained social fabric.

Erosion of Values

One of the significant drawbacks of the profit-maximizing mindset is the erosion of traditional values that are crucial for a healthy and cohesive society. Capitalism, by its nature, prioritizes self-interest and individual gain over communal well-being. This focus on personal profit can lead to a diminished sense of community and mutual responsibility, as individuals become more absorbed in their pursuit of financial success.

In a society that places a premium on profit, ethical considerations and moral values can be sidelined in the quest for financial gain. This erosion of values is evident in corporate practices that prioritize short-term profits over long-term sustainability and ethical conduct. The pursuit of profit at any cost can lead to exploitative labor practices, environmental degradation, and the neglect of social responsibility.

Increased Inequality

The profit-maximizing ethos of capitalism has also been a driving force behind the escalating income and wealth inequality in American society. As individuals focus on maximizing their profits, those at the top of the economic hierarchy amass disproportionate wealth, widening the gap between the rich and the poor. This increasing inequality not only undermines the principles of fairness and justice but also threatens the very foundations of a democratic society.

Economic inequality perpetuates social stratification, limiting access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for a significant portion of the population. This creates a cycle of disadvantage that hinders social mobility and reinforces the concentration of power and resources among a privileged few. Such disparities can lead to a fractured society, where the pursuit of profit exacerbates social divisions and fosters resentment among different economic classes.

Strained Social Fabric

Another consequence of the profit-maximizing mindset is the strain it places on the social fabric of American society. As individuals prioritize their economic interests, there is a risk of neglecting social connections, community engagement, and shared values. The pursuit of profit can create a culture of competition and individualism, diminishing the importance of collective well-being.

Moreover, the relentless pursuit of profit can contribute to stress and burnout, both at the individual and societal levels. The constant pressure to maximize economic outcomes can lead to a society where mental health concerns are prevalent, and the well-being of individuals is sacrificed in the name of economic success.

Conclusion

While capitalism has undoubtedly fueled economic growth and innovation in the United States, the relentless focus on individuals as profit-maximizing economic units has had significant adverse effects on American culture and society. The erosion of values, increased inequality, and a strained social fabric are all consequences of prioritizing profit over broader societal considerations. As we navigate the challenges of the modern economic landscape, it is crucial to critically examine and address the negative impacts of the profit-maximizing ethos to create a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate society.

09/14/2023

The Philosophy of Impermanence and Self-Determination: A Reflection on Marcus Aurelius' Wisdom

The quotation, "The universe is change; our life is what our thoughts make it," from Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations," encapsulates profound philosophical and existential insights that delve into the nature of reality and human agency. To fully understand its meaning, let's break it down into two interconnected parts:

"The universe is change":
Marcus Aurelius acknowledges a fundamental truth about the nature of the universe: it is in a constant state of flux and change. This idea aligns with the broader philosophical concept of impermanence found in many Eastern and Western traditions. The universe is not static; it is a dynamic and evolving system where everything is subject to transformation. This perspective encourages us to embrace change as a fundamental aspect of existence rather than resisting it.

"Our life is what our thoughts make it":
This part of the quotation emphasizes the power of human cognition and perception in shaping our experience of life. Marcus Aurelius suggests that our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes play a central role in determining the quality of our lives. In other words, our inner world, including our mental states, values, and perspectives, greatly influences how we interpret and respond to the ever-changing external world. This aligns with the Stoic philosophy that Marcus Aurelius adhered to, which emphasizes self-control, rationality, and mindfulness.

When combined, these two statements convey a profound message about personal agency and the relationship between the individual and the external world:

Embracing Change: By recognizing that the universe is in a constant state of flux, we are encouraged to accept change as an inherent part of life rather than resisting it. This acceptance can lead to greater inner peace and resilience in the face of life's inevitable ups and downs.

Mindful Living: The second part of the quotation underscores the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness. It suggests that our subjective experiences are not solely determined by external circumstances but are heavily influenced by our thoughts and interpretations. Therefore, by cultivating a positive and constructive mindset, we have the ability to shape our lives in more fulfilling and meaningful ways.

Personal Responsibility: Marcus Aurelius implies that we have a degree of control over our own experiences and responses to the world. It encourages us to take responsibility for our thoughts and attitudes, recognizing that they are key factors in determining our overall well-being.

In essence, this quotation from Marcus Aurelius reminds us of the profound interconnectedness of the inner and outer worlds and the importance of cultivating a mindful and constructive approach to life, even in the face of the ever-changing nature of the universe. It invites us to embrace change as an opportunity for growth and to recognize the transformative power of our own thoughts and perceptions.

09/10/2023

Covenants Not to Compete in Florida Employment Contracts: An Overview

(c) 2023 Stephen R. Verbit

Employees sometimes get information about an employer’s business that would be useful to the employer’s market competitors. Such information could include trade secrets, proprietary processes, or specialized training that would be useful in a competing business. In addition, employees may learn about the employer’s present customers, future sales prospects, and business plans. In some instances, an employee could get enough knowledge to set up his or her own competing business.

In industries or trades where employers feel vulnerable to such competition, employers often seek to limit employees’ rights to work for or start a competing business within specified geographical areas for a long time after their employment ends. This is typically done through an agreement requiring employees, as a condition of their employment, to limit their post-employment activities. The employer’s intention is to prevent former employees from working in or starting a competing business for as long as possible and to keep them as far away as possible if they do. Such an agreement is known as a “covenant not to compete” or a “restrictive covenant.” The word “covenant” sounds very imposing, but it means the same thing as a promise. Nevertheless, such promises can be legally binding and have significant potential to impair former employees’ ability to work in future.

Florida law has balanced the interests of employers and employees so that covenants not to compete are legally enforceable under certain circumstances. The remainder of this article will summarize the requirements for enforcement of covenants not to compete.

First, in order to qualify for enforcement, the agreement must be in writing and signed by the employee.

Second, the agreement must be justified by one or more “legitimate business interests.” These can include, but are not limited to:

Trade secrets;

Valuable confidential business or professional information that otherwise does not qualify as trade secrets;

Substantial relationships with specific prospective or existing customers, patients, or clients;

Customer, patient, or client goodwill associated with an ongoing business or professional practice, by way of trade name, trademark, service mark, or “trade dress,” a specific geographic location; or a specific marketing or trade area; or

Extraordinary or specialized training.

In other words, employers must have some reasonable, competition-based justification for limiting former employees’ ability to work. Absent such justification, the agreement is unenforceable.

Third, the restriction on post-employment activity must be reasonably necessary to protect the employer’s interest. However, overreaching restrictions do not necessarily invalidate the entire agreement. If a contractually specified restraint is overbroad, overlong, or otherwise not reasonably necessary to protect legitimate business interest or interests, courts have the power to modify the restraint and grant only the relief reasonably necessary to protect such interest or interests. In other words, if the issue goes to court, the judge can tailor the agreement to fit the circumstances.

Florida law specifies some guidelines for determining what restrictions are reasonable. If the restriction is not predicated on trade secret protection, which is most cases, a restriction that lasts six months or less is presumed reasonable. A restriction that lasts more than two years is presumed to be unreasonable. A restriction predicated on trade secret protection that lasts five years or less is presumed reasonable and more than ten years is presumed unreasonable. All these presumptions are rebuttable. For example, a former employee could try to prove that a six month restriction is unreasonable, or an employer could try to prove why more than a two year restriction is reasonable.

Assuming the employer can establish an otherwise enforceable restrictive covenant, there are some defenses available to the former employee. Unfortunately, the individualized economic or other hardship that might be caused to the former employee from enforcement of the restrictive covenant is not among the available defenses. A defense that is available to the former employee is that the employer no longer continues in business in the area or line of business that the restrictive covenant was intended to protect. However, this defense is not available if the former employee’s violation of the restrictive covenant is the reason for the employer’s discontinuance of the business. Another defense for the former employee is that the employer violated the employment agreement before the former employee did. This defense is known as “prior breach” but detailed discussion of that defense is beyond the scope of this article.

Market competition at all levels of the economy is fierce. Business owners arguably have a legitimate interest in protecting their business from competition from employees in whom trust has been placed, with whom valuable knowledge has been shared. and to whom training has been given. However, the law does not provide such protection forever. Restrictive covenants must be drafted with care to ensure they are enforceable. People need jobs and often need little coercion to sign any agreement requested by their employer that they believe will secure their employment. Employees should ensure they are not signing away their ability to earn a living at the hands of an overreaching employer. Although Florida law in this area is arguably stacked against the employee, there are limits to the employer’s power. In the case of an employer seeking to enforce a restrictive covenant, the employer does not automatically win and most judges will attempt to strike a reasonable balance between the competing interests.

09/10/2023

I obtained my law degree in 1987 with honors from the George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Since 1987 until the present, I have been a member of The Florida Bar and have practiced law in large, medium, and small law firms, including as a partner and managing partner, and as a sole practitioner, headquartered in the Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County regions of Southeastern Florida.

In my thirty-five (35) year career as a practicing lawyer, I have represented agricultural land owners, asphalt paving companies, asset purchasers and sellers, auto dealers, banks, boat builders, real estate and business buyers and sellers, business owners, charitable organizations, check drawers and drawees, condominium associations, condominium owners, construction project owners, construction lienors, corporate executives, corporations, creditors, debtors, dentists, real estate developers, electrical contractors, employers, employees, entertainment companies, entrepreneurs, equipment rental companies, engineers, environmental consultants, exporters, farming companies, filmmakers, financial institutions, financial services companies, gas stations, general contractors, gun ranges, homeowner associations, homeowners, HVAC companies, importers, information technology companies, intellectual property owners, inventors, investors, interstate and international shipping companies, landlords, law firms and lawyers, lenders, lien holders, manufacturers, maintenance companies, marinas, medical practices, mortgagors, mortgagees, partners, partnerships, patent and trademark owners, pharmaceutical benefit managers, physicians, professional athletes, promotional companies, public adjusters, oil companies, real estate agents and brokers, rehab centers, restaurants, retailers, sellers, shareholders, subcontractors, tax preparers, tenants, title insurers, underground storage tank operators, and victims of breaches of contract, conspiracy, construction defects, conversion, deceptive or unfair debt collection, sales, or trade practices, forgery, fraud, noncompete agreements, theft, unjust enrichment, and worthless checks.

My legal practice on behalf of my clients has included transactional work, i.e., overseeing the due diligence, permitting and licensing, and preparing the legal documents necessary to accomplish and effectuate particular transactions, such as asset purchases and sales, purchases and sales of equity interests in business entities, business entity formation and resolutions, construction contracts, purchases and sales of real estate, mortgages, and security interests. My transactional practice and expertise has been and continues to be informed by my extensive and ongoing litigation experience.

My legal experience has been heavily concentrated in litigation in federal and state trial and appellate courts and in arbitrations and administrative agency proceedings on behalf of my clients in a wide range of disputes involving administrative regulation, code enforcement, contracts, construction defects and payment disputes, conversion or misappropriation of assets or funds, defalcations and embezzlement, defamation, deceptive and unfair trade practices, debt collection, intra-partnership or intra-corporate disputes, land use development and zoning issues, employment issues, environmental assessment, permitting, and remediation issues, asset recovery and mortgage foreclosures, forgery, fraud, hazardous waste disposal, indoor air quality issues, landlord/tenant issues, occupational health and safety, patent and trademark disputes, pollutant discharge and elimination, dredge-and-fill, and wetlands permitting issues, accounting, legal, and other professional negligence or malpractice, real estate and title issues, tortious interference issues, uniform commercial code issues, and wage and hour disputes.

Law Offices of Stephen Verbit

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