Thursday

5

February 2026

Top 8 Best Personal Injury Lawyers and Law Firms in Westchester County, NY

Written by , Posted in Tort Law

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident in Westchester County, New York, finding the right personal injury attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make.

With personal injury cases in New York requiring proof of serious injury to step outside the no-fault system, and with aggressive insurance defense tactics becoming more sophisticated, residents who don’t want to deal with New York City’s hustle and bustle and traffic need high-power local Westchester County attorneys who have deep courtroom experience, a strong track record of verdicts and settlements, and genuine compassion for their clients just like their counterparts in NYC.

The editorial team at Is That Legal conducted extensive research using all publicly-available information to identify and create our list of the best personal injury lawyers with offices in Westchester County to help plaintiffs seeking legal representation after an accident or injury.

Below is the quick summary, but please continue reading before calling up these firms:

  1. Jeffrey Weiskopf, P.C. (Ossining) — #1 pick, near-perfect reputation, 5.0 Google rating, Cardozo adjunct role, personalized service, primary offices in Westchester
  2. Worby Vecchio Edelman (White Plains) — Powerful firm, 9/11 co-lead counsel, $43M med mal verdict
  3. Fiedler Deutsch (White Plains) — $275M+ recovered, $62M record verdict, med mal focus
  4. Peter DeFilippis & Associates (Ardsley/Manhattan) — 35+ years, Super Lawyers since 2010, 99% success rate
  5. Keegan, Keegan & Strutt (White Plains) — Since 1968, $20M construction settlement record
  6. Mark A. Siesel (White Plains/Bronx/Peekskill) — ~40 years, multi-office Westchester presence
  7. Denlea & Carton (White Plains) — $100M+ recovered, selective caseload approach
  8. Curan & Ahlers (White Plains) — 35+ years, compassionate client-centered approach

At Is That Legal, we selected the below attorneys and law firms objectively based on merit. Our rigorous selection criteria include:

  • Years of Experience & Focus: Each attorney has significant experience (many 20–40+ years) dedicated to representing injured plaintiffs in personal injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases in New York courts.
  • Track Record of Recoveries: We considered the amount of money recovered for clients, as well as notable wins. These lawyers have collectively recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured New Yorkers.
  • Major Case Victories: Each attorney or firm has led significant cases – including multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements – demonstrating the ability to go up against insurance companies and win.
  • Reputation & Ratings: All are highly respected, with top peer-review ratings. Many hold Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent® rating, have been named to the Super Lawyers list, or received recognition from organizations like the National Trial Lawyers.
  • Client Reviews & Reliability: We also note client satisfaction where available (e.g., Google or Avvo reviews). A strong pattern of 5-star reviews and positive testimonials indicates a commitment to client service. Each attorney on this list offers free consultations and works on contingency, reflecting confidence in the merits of their clients’ cases.
  • Westchester County Presence: All attorneys listed either maintain offices in Westchester County or have a demonstrated, long-standing practice serving Westchester County clients in local courts.

Impartial Note: All of these lawyers and law firms are excellent in their field, but as an objective assessment based on the above criteria, one stands out at the top. Below is the list of the top personal injury attorneys in Westchester County, NY, with their relevant qualifications and achievements, as judged objectively by Is That Legal.

1. Best Personal Injury Lawyer in Westchester County: Jeffrey Weiskopf at The Law Office of Jeffrey Weiskopf, P.C.

Location: Ossining, NY – Serving clients throughout Westchester County and New York State

Website: weiskopflaw.com

Phone: (914) 350-5175 

Why He’s #1: Jeffrey Weiskopf earns the top spot on our list for his exceptional combination of courtroom skill, medical malpractice expertise, client-first philosophy, and a near-perfect reputation among clients and peers – all backed by a personal and meticulous, trial-ready approach to every case.

Latest publicly available case study: In December 2025, a jury awarded $2,021,000 to the victim of a slip and fall that Jeffrey Weiskopf represented.

Key Highlights:

  • Nearly 20 years of hands-on litigation experience handling personal injury, medical malpractice, construction accidents, premises liability, and wrongful death cases in New York State and Federal courts.
  • Based on available public reviews and testimonials, Jeffrey appears to handle all cases himself and doesn’t pass them off to junior associates as is common practice at larger firms. 
  • Over $20 million recovered for injured clients, with standout results including a $3.25M medical malpractice verdict (failed urologic surgery), a $1.8M recovery for failure to diagnose lung cancer, and a $1.25M product liability settlement. 
  • Perfect 5.0-star Google rating from 45+ client reviews – one of the highest-rated personal injury attorneys in all of Westchester County. Clients consistently describe him as “smart, supportive, and genuinely sincere.”
  • Adjunct Professor of Law at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law since 2018, teaching Lawyering & Legal Writing and Remedies – demonstrating his commitment to legal excellence and education.
  • Personally meets with every client from initial consultation through resolution. Unlike larger firms where cases get handed off to associates, Mr. Weiskopf stays directly involved in every case.
  • Admitted to practice in New York State courts and the U.S. District Courts for the Southern, Eastern, and Northern Districts of New York, with pro hac vice appearances in Florida federal courts.
  • Active in community service and pro bono work, volunteering legal services to those who cannot afford representation.

Why He Stands Out: What separates Jeffrey Weiskopf from the field is his rare blend of medical malpractice expertise and deeply personal client service. Three of his five highlighted case results are medical malpractice verdicts – a practice area that is notoriously difficult, requires specialized knowledge, and that many personal injury firms avoid. 

His background as a Senior Court Attorney to a New York County judge, combined with partnership experience at a prominent PI firm before founding his own practice, gives him a perspective that few solo practitioners can offer. He prepares every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives him leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures clients are never caught off-guard. 

For Westchester County residents who want a proven trial lawyer who will know their name, answer their calls, and fight for maximum compensation, Jeffrey Weiskopf is the clear top choice.

2. Worby Vecchio Edelman, LLP

Location: White Plains, NY

Website: wvelaw.com

Why They’re Ranked as #2: Worby Vecchio Edelman is one of the most established personal injury firms in Westchester County, with a legacy spanning over four decades and more than $1 billion recovered for clients. Led by nationally recognized trial attorney David E. Worby, the firm has won some of the largest personal injury settlements and verdicts in Westchester County history.

Key Highlights:

  • Over $1 billion recovered for clients over 40+ years of practice.
  • David Worby named Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” for Personal Injury Litigation in White Plains, and named to the Super Lawyers list for 12 consecutive years.
  • Co-lead counsel in the 9/11 class action lawsuit, demonstrating capacity to handle the most complex, high-profile litigation.
  • Landmark verdicts include a $43M medical malpractice award, $10.3M roadway injury verdict, and $7.9M construction accident recovery.
  • AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell and named to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Personal Injury Law Firms list.
  • The Westchester County Board of Legislators declared “David Worby Day” in recognition of his contributions to the community and legal profession.

What Sets Them Apart: For clients with catastrophic injuries requiring the resources of a large firm, Worby Vecchio Edelman brings unparalleled firepower. Their multi-partner structure means they can handle the most complex cases, including medical malpractice, product liability, construction accidents, and wrongful death, with a depth of resources that few Westchester firms can match.

3. Fiedler Deutsch, LLP

Location: White Plains, NY

Website: fiedlerdeutsch.com

Why They’re Ranked Highly: Fiedler Deutsch has established itself as one of New York’s top trial firms for catastrophic injury and medical malpractice cases, with over $275 million recovered and some of the largest verdicts in Westchester County history.

Key Highlights:

  • Over $275 million recovered in settlements and verdicts, ranging from $1 million to $49 million per case.
  • Record-setting $62 million jury verdict in Lin v. Hutch Realty et al. – Adam E. Deutsch was a part of the trial team in the 31st largest jury verdict in the nation and 3rd largest in New York State in 2014.
  • Adam Deutsch secured two of the largest medical malpractice verdicts in Westchester County in recent years, including $9.2 million and $4 million.
  • Over 50 years of combined experience between partners Duane Fiedler and Adam Deutsch, both consistently named to the Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America lists.
  • Named a Best Law Firm in America by U.S. News & World Report and holds the AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
  • Every case is directly handled by the named partners – not delegated to junior associates.

What Sets Them Apart: Fiedler Deutsch devotes the majority of its practice to medical malpractice cases, which are among the most difficult personal injury claims to win. Their willingness to invest heavily in expert witnesses and their track record of taking cases through full jury trials makes them a formidable choice for victims of medical negligence and catastrophic injury.

4. Peter DeFilippis & Associates

Location: Ardsley, NY (Westchester County) & Manhattan

Website: legalrightsadvice.com

Why They’re Ranked Highly: With over 35 years of experience and a 99% success rate in recovering settlements, Peter DeFilippis has earned one of the most decorated records among Westchester County personal injury attorneys, backed by consistent recognition from virtually every major legal rating organization.

Key Highlights:

  • Over 35 years of personal injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death experience with a reported 99% success rate.
  • Named to the New York Super Lawyers list every year since 2010 for personal injury and medical malpractice.
  • Named to the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 (Civil Plaintiff) from 2016–2024, and Top 25 Medical Malpractice Trial Lawyers.
  • AV Preeminent® peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell, Avvo “Superb” 10/10 rating, and named to the New York Law Journal’s Verdicts and Settlements Hall of Fame for Medical Malpractice.
  • Top 10 Motor Vehicle Accident Settlement in New York in 2023 ($4.05M) and multiple appearances in VerdictSearch’s Top Verdicts from 2010–2025.
  • Offices in both Ardsley (Westchester) and Manhattan, serving clients across the New York metro area.

What Sets Them Apart: Peter DeFilippis combines the sheer volume of accolades and recognition with a deeply personal approach to client service. His firm is especially strong in premises liability, automobile accidents, and medical malpractice. With an office based in Ardsley, he is one of the few highly decorated trial lawyers with true roots in Westchester County.

5. Keegan, Keegan & Strutt, PLLC

Location: White Plains, NY

Website: keegan-law.com

Why They’re Ranked Highly: Operating in White Plains since 1968, Keegan, Keegan & Strutt is one of the longest-established personal injury practices in Westchester County, with a proven record of landmark verdicts including the largest previously reported construction accident settlement in New York State.

Key Highlights:

  • Serving Westchester County since 1968 – over 55 years of personal injury litigation experience.
  • Secured a $20 million construction accident settlement, reported as the largest of its kind in New York State at the time, as published in Jury Verdict Review and Analysis.
  • Highest national Martindale-Hubbell rating and Top 100 recognition from the National Trial Lawyers.
  • John W. Keegan, Jr. is a veteran trial attorney with extensive experience in personal injury, products liability, and medical malpractice who has served as a lecturer for the New York State Trial Lawyers’ Association.
  • Appellate strength: Partner Barry Strutt has successfully preserved client compensation on appeal and expanded clients’ rights to recover.
  • Located within walking distance of the White Plains Metro North station and state and federal courts.

What Sets Them Apart: Keegan, Keegan & Strutt brings the longest institutional history on this list. Their deep roots in Westchester County courts and their emphasis on meticulous trial preparation make them an especially strong choice for complex construction accident and products liability cases. Their appellate practice adds an additional layer of protection for clients.

6. The Law Office of Mark A. Siesel

Location: White Plains, NY (with offices in the Bronx and Peekskill)

Website: injurylawny.com

Why He’s Ranked Highly: Mark Siesel has been a fixture of the Westchester County personal injury bar for nearly four decades, offering veteran expertise with a personalized, client-first approach that has earned him a loyal following and numerous successful verdicts and settlements.

Key Highlights:

  • Nearly 40 years of personal injury experience, with admission to the New York bar since 1986.
  • Multiple offices across Westchester County (White Plains, Peekskill) and the Bronx – providing accessibility across the lower Hudson Valley region.
  • 10/10 Avvo rating and member of the Westchester County Bar Association since 1999.
  • Personally handles every case from inception through trial – clients work directly with Mr. Siesel, not associates or paralegals.
  • Broad practice covering car accidents, truck collisions, construction injuries, medical malpractice, premises liability, dog bites, and wrongful death.
  • Admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, and U.S. District Courts including the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York.

What Sets Him Apart: Siesel’s multi-office Westchester presence and his willingness to make home and hospital visits for clients who cannot travel make him an exceptionally accessible choice. His near-40-year tenure in the region means he understands the nuances of litigating in Hudson Valley courts where juries may differ from New York City. Clients consistently praise his honest communication and compassionate guidance.

7. Denlea & Carton, LLP

Location: White Plains, NY

Website: denleacarton.com

Why They’re Ranked Highly: Denlea & Carton takes a selective, quality-over-quantity approach that sets them apart from volume-based personal injury practices. With over $100 million recovered and 100+ combined years of experience, they focus exclusively on the most serious cases and routinely go up against the toughest corporate defendants.

Key Highlights:

  • Over $100 million recovered in verdicts and settlements for personal injury victims across New York.
  • 35+ years advocating for accident victims in Westchester County and throughout New York State.
  • Selective caseload – they only take the most serious cases, ensuring each client receives intensive partner-level attention and resources.
  • Multiple attorneys named to the Super Lawyers list, with Jeff Denlea recognized annually by his peers for over a decade.
  • Strong litigation bench with expertise spanning personal injury, commercial litigation, class actions, and intellectual property.
  • Former Westchester County Assistant District Attorney on staff, bringing prosecutorial trial experience to civil cases.

What Sets Them Apart: Denlea & Carton’s decision to limit their caseload means they pour enormous resources into each matter. For clients facing high-stakes litigation against powerful corporate defendants or insurance companies, this focused, trial-ready approach can be the difference between a lowball settlement offer and full compensation.

8. Curan & Ahlers, LLP

Location: White Plains, NY

Website: curanahlers.com

Why They’re Ranked Highly: Curan & Ahlers has over 35 years of personal injury experience in Westchester County and the greater New York area, offering a compassionate, client-centered approach with a strong commitment to dignity and fair treatment for every injured person who walks through their door.

Key Highlights:

  • Over 35 years of personal injury experience across a wide variety of case types including medical malpractice, car accidents, construction accidents, dog bites, slip and fall, and wrongful death.
  • Serves clients throughout Westchester County, all five boroughs of New York City, and surrounding counties including Rockland, Dutchess, Putnam, Orange, and Sullivan.
  • Free consultations and contingency-fee representation – no fee unless they win.
  • Highly trained attorneys with a reputation for fighting aggressively while maintaining compassion and respect for clients throughout the legal process.
  • Consults with qualified lawyers throughout the country for cases originating outside of New York.

What Sets Them Apart: Curan & Ahlers is known for their hands-on, empathetic approach to client service. They treat every client with dignity regardless of the size of the case, making them an excellent choice for individuals and families who want experienced representation paired with genuine personal attention in the Westchester County area.

Final Verdict

Each of the above attorneys meets the highest standards in the field of personal injury law. All are chosen based on their experience as plaintiff lawyers who recover compensation for injured New Yorkers.

When choosing a personal injury attorney in Westchester County, consider these key signals of quality: years of experience, demonstrated courtroom success, peer-review ratings, client reviews, and the level of personal attention you will receive from the attorney handling your case. A track record of multi-million-dollar results matters, but so does the lawyer’s willingness to listen to your story, return your phone calls, and treat you as a person rather than a case number.

Based on those factors, Jeffrey Weiskopf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Weiskopf, P.C. emerges at the top of an elite field based on the detailed research conducted by Is That Legal. However, all eight lawyers and firms listed above have the proven ability to fight for injured individuals and secure the compensation they deserve.

Monday

26

January 2026

RealPage lawsuit payout: Can tenants recover 15-21% of their rent since 2016 if they join and sue?

Written by , Posted in Administrative Law, Antitrust Law, Consumer Law, Contract Law

Answer: Maybe. Based on the claims made by Mason LLP, a law firm known for its experience in mass arbitration and class action lawsuits, current and past tenants who sign up and join the price-fixing antitrust lawsuit against RealPage (see below for how to sue RealPage) and their property management company may potentially recover between 15-21% of their apartment rent paid since 2016 in a settlement.

Realpage settlement quick details: Mass arbitration firms such as Mason LLP base their settlement estimates on the alleged 5-7% overcharge implemented by multifamily landlords throughout the U.S. since 2016, based off of RealPage’s YieldStar software product, combined with the Sherman Anti-Trust Act’s provision for treble damages. This suggests that for an average renter, this could amount to a recovery of around $5,184 in compensation before the deduction of legal fees and costs.

RealPage lawsuit 2025/2026 – How to join:

If you have lived in a property managed by one of the defendants or another company using RealPage’s revenue management software (even in prior years), you can join the lawsuit by filling out this form.

Lawsuit Update – January 26, 2026

On November 21, 2025, the Court in In re RealPage Inc. Rental Software Antitrust Litigation granted preliminary approval of 26 settlements with 27 defendants, totaling $141.8 million in monetary relief plus significant cooperation and injunctive relief. The class period for this settlement group spans October 18, 2018 through November 21, 2025.

This is a great sign for renters that are being individually represented by law firms for direct action claims on behalf of apartment/condo renters against RealPage. Please read this article on how you can sign up and potentially receive thousands in compensation instead of the smaller payout amounts from the seperate class action.

How Do Direct-action Lawsuit Payouts Work?

Several mass arbitration law firms are currently pursuing direct action lawsuit claims on behalf of apartment/condo renters against RealPage. They are taking a different approach to this lawsuit compared to the main class actions.

In simple terms, instead of joining the big group lawsuit where everyone is lumped together, they’re preparing to file separate lawsuits for each individual renter/plaintiff who becomes their client. This strategy is called “direct action.” This is a significant and positive update.

In a class action, it’s like everyone affected joins one big team and gets an equal share of whatever is won. But with direct action claims, these specialist law firms are essentially creating individual teams for each of their clients. This approach might lead to much higher settlement amount for each renter/plaintiff that was affected.

By handling cases one-by-one, law firms such as Mason LLP hope to focus on the specific details of each renter’s situation. This could potentially lead to higher compensation payout for their clients compared to what they might get in the class action, where individual circumstances might get lost in the crowd.

It’s important to note that while this approach might have potential benefits, it also comes with its own risks and challenges. The potential for a higher settlement must be weighed against factors such as individual case strength, time investment, and possible legal costs.

How Can I Join the Lawsuit and Sue to Claim Compensation?

If you have lived in a property managed by one of the defendants or another company using RealPage Inc’s revenue management service to set rental prices anytime since 2016, you may be affected by this rental housing price-fixing/rent-fixing case and can sue.

This case affects renters in several states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Washington. 

To learn more about your potential claim and how to join the lawsuit, you can complete this form to sign up.


Why This RealPage Litigation is Likely to Be Successful for Plaintiff Payouts?

By all indications, this “cartel/collusion” type case against RealPage has the potential to result in substantial settlements and payouts due to the following:

Extensive Investigation: As of July 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is conducting thorough civil and criminal probes into RealPage, indicating the merit of allegations of collusion and price-fixing.

State-Level Investigations: State attorneys general, including those from D.C., Arizona, and North Carolina, have launched probes and lawsuits against RealPage and major landlords.

Multiple Legal Fronts: The case is pursued on various fronts, including DOJ suits, criminal investigations, class-action lawsuits, and specialist law firm claims, increasing pressure on RealPage.

Antitrust Implications: The DOJ’s focus on potential antitrust violations suggests serious market manipulation, often resulting in significant penalties and damages.

Widespread Impact: The allegations impact many renters, leading to a large class of plaintiffs and potentially larger settlements or judgments.

Treble Damages: Under the Sherman Act, if RealPage is found liable, they could pay up to three times the actual damages, significantly increasing the payout.

Direct Action Approach: The strategy of pursuing individual claims rather than a class action could lead to higher settlements for renters.

Estimated Overcharges: Claims that renters were consistently overcharged by 5-7% since 2016 provide a basis for calculating significant damages.

Government Involvement: DOJ participation and support lend credibility to the claims and may increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome for renters.

Ongoing Industry Scrutiny: The Biden administration’s focus on anti-competitive practices, including in housing, suggests alignment with broader regulatory priorities.


Who are the lawsuit Defendants (Landlords and Management Companies) Accused of Price-Fixing their rent?

Below is a list of affected “Lessor Defendants” that used RealPage’s rent setting software that you can sue depending on which one(s) were your landlord. There are likely more, but this is the list we currently have based on our research at IsThatLegal.org, including property management companies and apartment complex owners:

  • Alliance Residential Company
  • AMLI Residential
  • Apartment Income REIT Corp
  • Apartment Management Consultants LLC
  • Asset Living, LLC
  • Avenue5 Residential, LLC
  • AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
  • BH Management Services, LLC
  • Bozzuto Management Company
  • Camden Property Trust
  • CONAM Management Corporation
  • Cortland Partners, LLC
  • Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.
  • CWS Apartment Homes, LLC
  • Equity Residential
  • Essex Property Trust, Inc.
  • FPI Management, Inc.
  • Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC
  • Highmark Residential, LLC
  • Lincoln Property Company
  • Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc.
  • Mission Rock Residential, LLC
  • The Morgan Group Inc.
  • Morgan Properties, LLC
  • Park Towne Place Apartment Homes
  • Pinnacle Property Management Services, LLC
  • Prometheus Real Estate Group, Inc.
  • RPM Living, LLC
  • Sares Regis Group
  • Security Properties Inc.
  • The Irvine Company, LLC
  • The Sterling Apartment Homes
  • Thrive Communities Management, LLC
  • UDR, Inc.
  • WinnCompanies, LLC
  • ZRS Management, LLC

Renter/Tenant FAQs Regarding Antitrust Compensation:

  1. What type of compensation can I expect if I sue and the the lawsuit is successful?
    • You can expect financial compensation, which might include refunds for overpaid rents, punitive damages, and possibly other monetary awards decided by the court.
  2. How will the compensation/settlement be calculated?
    • Compensation is typically based on the extent of overcharges experienced, the duration you were affected, and any other financial harm caused by the price fixing.
  3. When can I expect to receive compensation?
    • The timeline for receiving compensation can vary, but it usually occurs after the lawsuit is resolved and any appeals are completed, which can take several months to years.
  4. Are there any fees or costs I will be responsible for?
    • Legal fees and administrative costs might be deducted from the compensation amount, but details vary based on the agreement with the representing law firm. Almost all mass arbitration and class action law firms work on a contingency fee basis, which means that the payment of fees and costs is “contingent” upon whether they obtain any recovery on your behalf. If there is no monetary award, you will not be obligated to pay any attorneys’ fees or costs.
  5. Is the compensation taxable?
    • Compensation could be taxable; it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific implications.

Renter/Tenant Questions Regarding How to Sign Up:

  1. Am I eligible to join the antitrust lawsuit?
    • Eligibility typically includes being a tenant who rented a property affected by the price-fixing practices and antitrust violations during a specified period.
  2. What documents or evidence do I need to provide?
    • You might need to provide lease agreements, rent payment records, and any communication with your landlord and/or property management company related to rental rates.
  3. How do I officially join the lawsuit?
    • You can join by contacting the law firm handling the case, filling out any required forms, and submitting necessary documentation.
  4. Do I need to hire my own lawyer?
    • Generally, you do not need to hire your own lawyer if you join a class action lawsuit, as the representing firm will handle the case on behalf of all plaintiffs.
  5. What happens after I sign up?
    • After signing up, you will receive updates on the case’s progress and may need to participate in providing further information or testimony.
  6. Can I withdraw from the lawsuit if I change my mind?
    • Yes, you can usually withdraw from the lawsuit, but it’s important to understand any potential consequences or deadlines for opting out.
  7. Will my participation be confidential?
    • Participation is typically confidential, though some information might become public record during court proceedings.

Join the RealPage Antitrust Lawsuit and Claim Compensation

If you have rented an apartment or single-family or multifamily property managed by one of the defendants or another company using RealPage’s revenue management service to set rental prices anytime since 2016, you may be affected and you can complete this form to sign up for the lawsuit.

Sunday

25

January 2026

Tabletop fire pit burns and recalls – can you sue? How much compensation is available from burns/explosions?

Written by , Posted in Consumer Law, Tort Law

If you were burned by an exploding tabletop fire pit, it is possible you can sue the manufacturer or vendor of the product you purchased if the product was unknowingly dangerous to use. Your compensation/settlement from a successful lawsuit will depending on your injury severity and circumstances. Multiple documented cases demonstrate substantial compensation potential.

The Is That Legal Team have researched this heavily and noted that previous tabletop fire pit burn victims have received settlements ranging from $225,000 to $8 million, depending on injury severity and circumstances (as of January 2026).

With federal recalls now on record and manufacturers like Colsen declaring insolvency, burn victims have strong legal grounds for compensation but must act quickly—statutes of limitations typically expire just 2 years from injury.

The experts at Is That Legal agree that the legal foundation for these cases is exceptionally strong: recalled products, documented safety violations, and mounting injury reports create compelling evidence of defective design. Multiple legal theories support claims including strict liability, negligence, and failure to warn, with courts already ruling that both manufacturers and retailers can be held accountable.


Can You Sue for Your Injuries from tabletop alcohol fire pit burns


Maybe. If you or a family member has been injured by a tabletop fire pit, see if you qualify for compensation by filling out the form on the right side of this page here. 

The link above goes to the nationwide tabletop fire pit lawsuit page on the Louthian Firm website. After you fill out the form, an attorney(s) or their agent(s) may contact you to discuss your legal rights.

How much compensation can I get from a tabletop fire pit burn lawsuit?


Previous tabletop fire pit burn victims have received settlements ranging from $225,000 to $8 million, depending on injury severity and circumstances. Multiple documented cases demonstrate substantial compensation potential.

Examples of lawsuit settlement amounts

  • Largest documented settlement: $8 million (Denman v. Multiple Defendants, 2012). A Fort Worth, Texas woman suffered severe burns to her neck, chest, face, and arms when fuel gel burst into flames during refueling at a backyard dinner party. She required multiple skin-graft surgeries and permanent disfiguring injuries. Multiple defendants agreed to the settlement in Portland, Oregon federal court.
  • Case Barnett Law settlement: $1 million. An Orange County plaintiff suffered third-degree burns requiring two skin graft surgeries when a tabletop fire pit and gel lighter fluid combination ignited while following manufacturer instructions. The case settled after two years of litigation.
  • Kutsor v. Bird Brain Inc.: $225,000 settlement. A 24-year-old Alabama man was airlifted to a burn center with burns to his neck, chest, and face after gel fuel exploded when added to what appeared to be an extinguished fire pot. Defendants included the manufacturer, distributor, and retailer Marshalls.
  • Current active litigation includes Hominski v. Gusar, LLC (Southern District of Florida, trial scheduled March 2026), where a woman became “engulfed in flames” from flame jetting, and Little v. Amazon.com (trial February 2027), involving a minor who suffered severe burns to her chest, hands, legs, and scalp. At least five federal lawsuits targeting Colsen, Amazon, and other defendants are proceeding through courts nationwide.

How much is my tabletop fire pit burn injury worth?


Your tabletop fire pit burn injury value depends primarily on burn severity, with documented settlements ranging from under $10,000 for minor burns to over $7 million for catastrophic injuries:

Burn SeverityTypical Settlement Range
First-degreeUnder $10,000
Second-degree$25,000 – $75,000
Third-degree$100,000 – $800,000+
60%+ body coverageMedian verdict: $7.75 million

The national median recovery for burn injuries is $366,313, though severe cases reach much higher. Factors increasing value include facial or visible burns, need for skin grafts, permanent scarring, young victim age, and strong liability evidence like CPSC recalls.

Should I join the tabletop fire pit class action or file my own lawsuit?


You should likely file your own lawsuit if you suffered severe burns, as individual lawsuits typically yield higher compensation than class actions for serious injuries. 

An active class action has been filed: Barnhart v. Colsen Fire Pits LLC (Case No. 3:24-cv-00945, W.D. North Carolina), seeking certification for purchasers of recalled Colsen products. It alleges breach of warranty, unjust enrichment, and consumer protection violations.

However, class actions share damages among all participants and work best for smaller, similar claims. Victims with catastrophic burns—third-degree burns, permanent disfigurement, or extensive scarring—typically benefit more from personalized litigation that fully accounts for their specific damages.

If you or a family member has been injured by a tabletop fire pit, see if you qualify for a direct-action lawsuit with potential for significant compensation by filling out the form on the right side of this page here. 

Saturday

24

January 2026

Change Healthcare data breach lawsuit payout per person: is $1,000 per claim realistic from this class action?

Written by , Posted in Consumer Law, Cybersecurity Law, Statutory Law

If you’ve received notification from Change Healthcare about their 2024 data breach, you might be wondering what steps to take next and how much settlement compensation you could be eligible for. As well as how to sign up and join the class action lawsuit.

Yes, compensation payout amounts up to $1,000 per claim are available for the Change Healthcare lawsuit. This is the latest information we are seeing in January 2026.

Also, there are three ways to join and pursue settlement compensation from this large-scale cyber attack:

  1. Class Action Lawsuit: Traditional class action suits allow a group of individuals to sue a defendant collectively. Several notable law firms in the U.S. are pursuing this strategy which can address widespread harm efficiently, however individual payouts are often lower than expected.
  2. Mass Action Lawsuit: This strategy involves multiple plaintiffs filing individual lawsuits that are handled collectively by the same law firm. Mass action combines the efficiency of class actions with the personalized attention of individual cases, potentially leading to higher compensation.
  3. Individual Lawsuit: Filing a lawsuit on your own can be time-consuming and costly but allows for personalized representation.

Change Healthcare Data Breach Lawsuit Sign-Up

If you received an official letter or email notification from Change Healthcare about the data breach/cyber attack in 2024, you can join the mass action lawsuit by filling out this form.

The link above goes to the Change Healthcare lawsuit claim form on Mason LLP’s website where you can sign up securely. After you fill out the form, an attorney(s) or their agent(s) may contact you to discuss your legal rights.

Why Mass Action May Result in a Larger Lawsuit Payout

We’ve seen mass action lawsuits becoming a powerful alternative to traditional class actions, particularly in cases involving cases like the one experienced in 2024 by Change Healthcare–one of the largest medical data breaches in history.. Here’s why mass action might be the optimal choice for you, the plaintiff:

Personalized Representation

Unlike class actions, where all plaintiffs are treated as a single entity, mass action allows each plaintiff’s unique circumstances to be considered. This means your specific damages—such as the extent of your data compromised or any financial losses you incurred (for example, losses due to identity theft, credit or insurance fraud, reputational damage from publicly disclosed medical information, among many others)—are individually assessed. CAC (The Class Action Community) has additional information on their resource page.

Higher Settlement Potential

Mass action suits often result in more substantial settlements for individuals compared to class actions. Since each case is evaluated on its own merits, there’s a greater opportunity for higher compensation. I.e., based on the damages each individual suffered and its impact on their life and lifestyle.

Faster and More Efficient

While mass actions involve multiple individual cases, they benefit from collective efficiency. Law firms can streamline the process by utilizing similar evidence and legal arguments across cases, potentially leading to faster resolutions than individual suits.

Q: What about the United Healthcare breach?

A: UnitedHealth Group owns Change Healthcare, and the 2024 hack may affect United Healthcare customers. If additional lawsuits arise, you can sign up for the United Healthcare class action suit as well with the help of the law firm handling your case.

Q: How do I join the class action lawsuit against Change Healthcare ?

A: You can join by filling out the Change Healthcare data breach lawsuit sign-up form provided here or at the end of this page.

How can I join the lawsuit?

If you’re affected by the Change Healthcare data breach and want to pursue compensation, follow these steps to see if you qualify to sue this healthcare company:

  1. Confirm Your Eligibility:
    • Verify that you received an official letter or other notification from Change Healthcare about the data breach.
    • If unsure, contact them or navigate to their online information page.
  2. Gather Necessary Documentation:
    • Collect any communications from Change / United Healthcare regarding the breach.
    • Document any suspicious activity or identity theft incidents.
    • Keep records of time and money spent addressing the breach.
  3. Join the Class Action Action Lawsuit / Mass Action Lawsuit:
    • Complete the Change Healthcare lawsuit claim form provided above
    • Provide accurate personal information, details of how you were affected, and any supporting documents.
  4. Consult with Your Legal Team:
    • Law firms experienced in data breach litigation such as Mason LLP can guide you through the process.
    • Firms handling this case operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay if they win your case.
  5. Stay Informed:
    • Keep in regular contact with your legal team once you’ve sued and joined the class action suit / mass action suit.
    • Monitor updates regarding the lawsuit and any settlement offers from Change Healthcare.

What Affects the Payout Per Person?

While exact amounts can’t be predicted for everyone who signs up and joins the lawsuit, compensation in data breach cases per person may be based on:

  • Reimbursement: For out-of-pocket expenses related to the breach.
  • Damages for Time Spent: Compensation for time addressing the breach’s consequences.
  • Credit Monitoring Services: Provision of services to protect against future identity theft.
  • Emotional Distress: In some cases, damages for stress or anxiety caused by the breach.

The important thing to keep in mind is that mass action lawsuits can yield higher individual settlements compared to class actions, where payouts might be minimal ($5-20 per plaintiff is something we’ve seen over and over again with typical class actions). With mass action, some experts are predicting up to $1,000 in settlements per claim for this data breach case!

Join the Change Healthcare Lawsuit and Claim Compensation

If you’ve been affected by the 2024 data hack/breach, you may be entitled to join and claim compensation for the exposure of your personal information, private data and HIPPA-protected medical records and any resulting damages arising from the breach. 

If you received a letter or email notification from Change Healthcare or United Healthcare about the data breach and want to sign up online, you can join the mass action lawsuit by filling out this claim form.

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Thursday

1

January 2026

Top 8 Best Investment Fraud Attorneys and Firms in the US

Written by , Posted in Securities Law

Investors and retirees who have been victimized by stockbroker violations or investment fraud need experienced, high-performing attorneys on their side. 

With investment fraud targeting retirees reaching crisis levels across the United States, our editorial team at Is That Legal dove in and conducted extensive research to identify the nation’s best investment and securities fraud lawyers in the US to help plaintiffs seeking legal representation in this area.

At Is That Legal, we selected the below attorneys and law firms objectively based on merit. Our rigorous selection criteria include:

  • Years of Experience & Focus: Each attorney has decades of experience (many 25+ years) dedicated to representing investors (plaintiffs) in securities fraud cases. Several began their careers as regulators or Wall Street insiders, giving them valuable insight into the industry’s inner workings.
  • Track Record of Recoveries: We considered the total amount of money recovered for clients, as well as notable wins. These lawyers have collectively recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for wronged investors, with some achieving record-breaking awards.
  • Major Case Victories: Each attorney has led significant cases (e.g. FINRA arbitration awards or court verdicts) – including multi-million-dollar awards – demonstrating the ability to win big for individual investors.
  • Reputation & Ratings: All are highly respected, with top peer-review ratings (many hold Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent® rating, indicating the highest level of ethical and legal ability. Many have leadership roles in investor advocacy groups or have been recognized by industry accolades (Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, etc.).
  • Client Reviews & Reliability: We also note public client satisfaction where available (e.g. Google or Avvo reviews). A strong pattern of 5-star reviews and testimonials indicates a commitment to client service. Each attorney and law firm on this list offers free consultations and works on contingency, reflecting confidence in the merits of their clients’ cases.

Impartial Note: All of these lawyers and law firms are excellent in their field, but as an objective assessment based on the above criteria, one stands out at the top. Below is the list of the top investment fraud attorneys in the US for individual investors, with their relevant qualifications and achievements, as judged objectively by Is That Legal.

1. Best Investment Fraud Lawyer: Robert Wayne Pearce at the Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A.

Location: Nationwide Practice

Why He’s #1: Pearce has a near-flawless FINRA arbitration record, with over 100 hearings and only four investor losses — a rate that few, if any, attorneys can match. He is widely regarded for deep expertise in structured notes, Reg D private placements, and advisor negligence.

Key Highlights:

  • 45+ years of securities litigation experience.
  • Recovered more than $175M through direct arbitration and litigation.
  • Tried over 100 investor cases, with wins in the overwhelming majority.
  • Holds an AV Preeminent peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell (which only a handful of plaintiffs’ investment fraud lawyers hold). This rating is particularly significant in the securities field because it demonstrates that Robert has been recognized by his peers for both his legal ability and ethical standards – crucial qualities when representing investors who have suffered financial losses due to fraud or misconduct.
  • Known for working one-on-one with clients and offering contingency representation, with a near-perfect 4.9 average review rating from clients.

Why He Stands Out for 2025/2026: Investment fraud attorney Robert Wayne Pearce and his law firm is not a volume-based class-action deal. He thrives in high-stakes individual cases, especially those involving complex instruments or senior investor abuse, where his arbitration tenacity directly determines the outcome. 

This and other factors places Robert Wayne Pearce as the best investment fraud attorney in our list for the majority of retail investors and common victims of investment loss who were defrauded by their stockbroker or financial advisor. We’d recommend you to read the Super Lawyers article “No Excuses” on Robert Wayne Pearce’s background.

2. Meyer Wilson 

Location: Columbus, OH (National Practice)

Why They’re Ranked High: Instead of touting large-dollar totals, Meyer Wilson earns this spot through its nation-leading leadership in investment-related class actions and consumer protection litigation. They have helped lead some of the largest coordinated recovery efforts in investment history.

Key Highlights:

  • Represents thousands of investors in consolidated proceedings.
  • Lead counsel in massive Ponzi and pyramid scheme litigation.
  • Strong in mass arbitration strategy and regulatory coordination.
  • DAvid meyer is the author of educational content including the book The Investor Protector.
  • Rated as one of the “Best Law Firms in America” by U.S. News & World Report.

What Sets Them Apart: Meyer Wilson excels when hundreds or thousands of investors have been harmed in a common scheme. Their strength lies in creating infrastructure for broad redress, not in individualized arbitration cases.

3. Tom Ajamie

Location: Houston, TX (National Practice)

Why He Ranks: Ajamie is one of the most accomplished trial attorneys in securities fraud. While his total recoveries are enormous, what sets him apart is his ability to win massive, record-setting verdicts in both arbitration and civil litigation.

Key Highlights:

  • Won a $429M arbitration award against PaineWebber — among the largest in NYSE history.
  • Secured $14.5M in a FINRA arbitration against Prudential.
  • Successfully litigated investor-side RICO claims (rare and complex).
  • Known for white-collar and cross-border litigation skill.

Standout Factor: Ajamie’s courtroom dominance in bet-the-case litigation gives him an edge in high-stakes disputes where arbitration may not be available or desired. He’s the choice for investors facing multinational financial fraud or major institutional negligence.

4. Lloyd Schwed 

Location: Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Why He’s Ranked: Lloyd Schwed offers elite FINRA arbitration experience, including notable recent wins against top-tier brokerage firms.

Key Highlights:

  • Achieved an $18.2M FINRA award in Gomez v. UBS.
  • More than 40 years of experience in securities defense and investor claims.
  • Highly rated for suitability and fraud-focused litigation.
  • Provides direct partner-level access and contingency billing.

Standout Factor: Schwed combines technical expertise and client-first service, with a litigation style that emphasizes clarity and risk mitigation for retirees and high-net-worth clients.

5. Stuart Meissner 

Location: New York, NY

Why He’s Ranked: Meissner’s firm is best known for its early and successful use of SEC’s whistleblower program, having secured one of the largest Dodd-Frank awards for a client.

Key Highlights:

  • $22M whistleblower award from the SEC for client tip submission.
  • Dual focus on FINRA arbitration and SEC regulatory practice.
  • Former Assistant Attorney General with prosecutorial expertise.
  • Aggressive advocate for clients in complex compliance and fraud cases.

What Makes Him Unique: Meissner is particularly powerful for investors who are also whistleblowers or former employees, needing both protection and payout.

6. Carl Schoeppl 

Location: Boca Raton, FL

Why He’s Ranked: A former SEC Enforcement attorney, Schoeppl uses his deep understanding of regulatory enforcement to represent individual investors facing fraud from private placements, insider schemes, and bad advice.

Key Highlights:

  • Former SEC prosecutor in Washington, D.C.
  • Expert in insider trading, broker negligence, and ERISA-related fraud.
  • Operates a boutique practice with a laser focus on investor-side litigation.
  • AV-rated with national reach.

Standout Factor: Schoeppl’s SEC background gives him insight into regulatory blind spots brokers exploit — and how to build ironclad cases against them.

7. Haselkorn & Thibaut

Location: Jupiter, FL

Why They’re Ranked: This veteran-led firm has built a reputation for hard-edged litigation against brokerage firms, especially in elder abuse and misallocated retirement accounts.

Key Highlights:

  • 50+ years of combined legal experience.
  • Offices nationwide and former broker-industry insiders.
  • Specialists in high-fee products, retirement plan abuses, and illiquid investments.
  • Contingency representation with high client satisfaction.

Standout Factor: With a strong ethical foundation and clear focus on retiree protection, this firm is especially popular with older investors who trusted the wrong advisor.

8. Erez Law 

Location: Miami, FL (National Practice)

Why They’re Ranked: Erez Law focuses on direct action arbitration for individuals and couples who were misled into unsuitable or speculative investments.

Key Highlights:

  • Over 20 years of experience focused exclusively on securities fraud.
  • Skilled in alternative investments, structured notes, and REIT cases.
  • Known for aggressive motion practice and strong negotiating leverage.

Unique Edge: If your case revolves around a single fraudulent advisor or firm, Erez Law may be a strong fit for direct FINRA arbitration filings without class-action overhead.

Final Verdict:

Yes, each of the above attorneys meets the highest standards in this specialized area of law. All are chosen based off of their experience as plaintiff lawyers who recover money for defrauded investors. 

When choosing an attorney for an investment or securities fraud case, consider these key signals of quality: experience, successful recoveries, professional ratings, and client focus. Based on those factors, Robert Wayne Pearce emerges at the top of an elite field based off of the detailed research done by Is That Legal, but all eight lawyers listed have the proven ability to fight for individual investors and win back their hard-earned savings.

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