Ward Law LLC is thrilled to share that our all-star attorney Christopher Curci has been featured in the Law360 email newsletter for both New Jersey Law and National Employment Law. The nationally renowned legal news service, which has been in circulation for nearly 20 years, recognized Mr. Curci for his successful defense in the Appellate Division of the New Jersey Superior Court.
In the case, wholesale insurance brokerage Norman-Spencer (defendant), purchased insurance management business Northern Star Management from owner and operator Michael Karlis (plaintiff). In connection with the purchase, Karlis entered into an employment agreement with Norman-Spencer. The agreement included a 48-month Initial Term, after which Karlis became an “at-will” employee. In the event that Norman-Spencer terminated Karlis, the agreement required six months’ notice. Six months prior to the end of the 48-month Initial Term, Norman-Spencer provided Karlis notice that he would be terminated at the outset of his “at-will” employment. After his termination, Karlis filed an eight-count Complaint against Norman-Spencer and its principals in the New Jersey Superior Court.
Christopher Curci argued the case before trial court Judge Robert G. Wilson, who agreed with Mr. Curci’s contention that “if the court were to accept [plaintiff’s] argument, doing so would result in the court transforming the 48-month contract term into a 54-month contract term.” Karlis then filed an appeal to the Appellate Division. On Oct. 29, 2021, a New Jersey appellate panel affirmed Judge Wilson’s decision, upholding Christopher Curci’s well-reasoned argument.
This is not the first significant case Mr. Curci has successfully argued at the appellate level. He has successfully briefed and argued appeals before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, the Commonwealth, Superior and Supreme Courts of Pennsylvania, and the Appellate Division of New Jersey. Notably, Mr. Curci’s appellate work has resulted in precedential opinions from the Third Circuit Court of Appeals and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
Ward Law LLC is grateful for Christopher Curci’s expertise and for the talents of their entire team of dedicated attorneys and staff.