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Michael Rakower
Managing Member, Rakower Law PLLC. Commercial litigator with broad range of experience, including executive compensation, ERISA, partnerships, finance and banking, real estate, civil RICO, and intellectual property.
Professional Background
Michael C. Rakower is a distinguished litigator known for his expertise in complex commercial disputes, especially those relating to executive compensation, ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act), finance and banking, partnerships, real estate matters, civil RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), and intellectual property. With a solid foundation of experience in high-stakes litigation, he has cultivated a reputation as a tenacious advocate for his clients, guiding them through intricate legal challenges with finesse and professionalism.
After earning his J.D. from the prestigious University of Virginia School of Law, Michael established Rakower Law PLLC with a singular goal in mind: to offer world-class legal representation to individuals and corporations embroiled in complex business problems. His track record showcases numerous high-profile cases, where he has successfully represented clients across various industries, emphasizing his versatility and depth of knowledge in legal matters.
Education and Achievements
Michael Rakower's academic journey began with receiving a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the University of Pennsylvania, laying the groundwork for his analytical and critical thinking skills. Following this, he earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law, which is renowned for producing some of the country's top legal professionals. This rigorous legal education has equipped him with the expertise necessary to navigate and resolve complicated disputes effectively.
Throughout his illustrious career, Michael has handled cases with significant financial implications and has become a trusted advisor in various legal contexts. Among his notable representations are:
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Former CEO of a Not-for-Profit Agency: Michael represented the former CEO in a dispute concerning the agency's refusal to pay ERISA-governed retirement benefits, a matter valued over $15 million.
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Former CEO of a Publicly-Traded Company: In another high-stakes dispute, he successfully advocated for the former CEO against a company that refused to honor a similar obligation involving over $10 million.
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Fourth-Generation Business Representation: He handled a crucial case involving executives and incentive compensation related to a subsidiary's $220 million sale.
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Private Equity Executive Representation: A multi-jurisdictional dispute concerning the refusal of an employer to pay a carried interest following a $700 million sale was effectively managed by Michael, showcasing his prowess in complex financial matters.
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Real Estate Financing Disputes: his skills were on display during multi-party actions concerning a $140 million real estate transaction marred by allegations of fraud.
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High-Profile Estate Case: He was engaged in appellate representation for a substantial will contest involving an estate valued at approximately $1 billion.
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International Legal Work: Michael has extended his legal acumen to international matters, such as providing pre-litigation counseling for the Iraqi Government related to the United Nations Oil-for-Food program investigations into multibillion-dollar kickback schemes.
His contributions go beyond litigation as he has also played a pivotal role in the public service domain.
Organizational Involvement
Michael is actively involved in a variety of legal organizations, showcasing his commitment not only to his practice but also to the advancement of the legal profession. He serves as the Managing Member at Rakower Law PLLC and has held significant positions, including:
- Executive Committee Member of the Commercial and Federal Litigation Section at the New York State Bar Association, where he collaborated with fellow professionals to address key issues affecting commercial and federal litigation practices.
- Partner at Rakower Lupkin PLLC and a Principal at Law Office of Michael C. Rakower, P.C., marking key stages in his career as he expanded his reach and client base.
- Of Counsel at the Law Offices of Gordon Mehler, P.L.L.C., and previously with The Legal Aid Society, demonstrating his dedication to providing legal services within different community contexts.
- Legal Researcher at the Office of the Prosecutor for the United Nations Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, highlighting his expertise in international law and humanitarian issues.
Michael's leadership skills were further exemplified during his tenure as Vice President and Board Member of the Kigali Public Library, which played a significant role in promoting literacy and education in Rwanda.
Achievements
The impact of Michael C. Rakower’s career is undeniable, with numerous landmark cases and initiatives contributing to the legal landscape in which he operates. His deep understanding of commercial law, particularly in the realms of ERISA and executive compensation, positions him as a formidable advocate for his clients. Michael has not only achieved significant settlements for his clients but has also helped shape discussion within various legal forums on complex commercial litigation topics.
Furthermore, his ability to navigate issues in multi-jurisdictional disputes and handle intricate banking and financial disputes makes him a sought-after expert in the litigation field. His track record of representing figures and entities in high-value disputes intricately highlights his effectiveness and strategic thinking in complex cases.
In conclusion, Michael C. Rakower stands out as a litigator par excellence, blending thorough legal education and insights with practical experience. He continues to strive for excellence in his practice and aims to provide his clients with the best possible legal representation. His commitment to helping clients work through complex disputes, while also contributing to the legal profession and community, underlines his dedication and passion for law.
