Offit Kurman

Commercial Litigation

Principal

Stephen Forte focuses his practice in the areas of distressed real estate, franchise law and business litigation in the federal, state and appellate courts in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, as well as other jurisdictions.

His distressed real estate practice involves representing lenders and special servicers in every aspect of distressed real estate, from the pre-default stage through litigation. Steve regularly represents clients in connection with non-performing loans and the exercise of remedies such as judicial foreclosures, rights under the Uniform Commercial Code, receiverships, replevin, workouts, litigation and resulting judgment enforcement/collection and contested bankruptcy matters, as well as with respect to title disputes and litigation. Steve’s experience spans numerous types of commercial properties, including office buildings and parks, multifamily apartment, investment properties, construction projects and shopping centers.

Steve’s franchise practice consists of representing franchisors and franchisees in drafting and reviewing franchise disclosure documents and related agreements. Steve also represents franchise clients with all related legal work, including the enforcement of their legal rights and the protection of their intellectual property rights.

In the area of business litigation, Steve’s practice includes representing clients in actions involving business torts, corporate disputes, employment matters, breach of contract claims, breach of fiduciary duty claims, trade secrets and trademark infringement.

New York State Bar Association, Member

American Bar Association

Swim Across America, Member

Pace University School of Law, Alumni Board

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University (J.D.) - Certificate in International Law

Loyola University Maryland (B.B.A.)