Attorney Spotlight – Martin R. Kafafian

Today we present our next edition of Beattie Padovano’s “Spotlight Series,” which is designed to help you get to know the team behind our success.

Below you can enjoy a brief interview with Martin (Marty) R. Kafafian, a Member in our firm’s Commercial Litigation & Appeals practice. With a focus on corporate governance and shareholder disputes and complex commercial litigation, Marty represents clients at both the trial and appellate levels of state and federal courts, as well as in various Alternative Dispute Resolution forums, including the International Centre for Dispute Resolution. He regularly appears before complex commercial and business tribunals, including the New York Supreme Court, New York County Commercial Division.

Here’s more from our visit:

Marty, what inspired you to focus on your specific areas of practice?

Early in my career I second-chaired an arbitration centered on a shareholder dispute. We were representing a shareholder whose family had been operating the business for nearly a century. As Second Chair, I was responsible for certain aspects of trial preparation, handling logistics, supporting the lead attorney, managing exhibits and deposition testimony, and more. It was a privilege to work as part of a team that was resolving a complicated conflict among them – particularly in the context of a legacy company with so much history. The experience of having a “front-row” seat as it all took shape was equal parts fascinating and rewarding. I learned two things: that shareholder disputes are fascinating and that I wanted to try cases. I knew I had discovered my niche and wanted to build my career as an attorney in this area of practice.

What do you most enjoy about working with your team at Beattie Padovano, LLC?

The “open door” culture. I love the camaraderie that we experience on a daily basis. Colleagues are always available to brainstorm strategy, debate law and policy, and readily offer expertise in their own practice areas on a variety of matters.

The firm also emphasizes work-life balance. Everyone works hard but personal time is respected, without sacrificing the collective commitment to providing quality representation on challenging and complex matters.

What types of cases are especially meaningful or rewarding for you, and why?

I enjoy litigating corporate governance and partnership disputes. These cases explore the practices that largely dictate how business is conducted in the state. These cases also offer a behind-the-scenes view into how some of the most interesting services and products have come to shape our markets and culture.

What is your favorite part about working in Northern New Jersey?

New Jersey has a sense of place and a culture all its own. It’s Bruce Springsteen, the Jersey Shore, and Taylor Ham. And it’s a fiercely independent local business culture, making for wonderful clients with whom we get to work.

What advice would you give to an aspiring lawyer?

Learn to use A/I tools and become an expert in a statute or legal doctrine. And, just as importantly, develop the skills that will lead to the best outcomes for your clients. Perfect cross examination. Cultivate the confidence to “hold court.” Master “getting to yes”. 

Visit Martin R. Kafafian – Beattie Padovano, LLC to learn more about Martin’s areas of practice and to contact him directly.