Eric Turkewitz

Eric Turkewitz

4.5
Rating: 9.4

Licensed for 40 years

Personal injury Lawyer at New York, NY
Practice Areas: Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice

228 East 45th Street, New York, NY

About Eric

Biography

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Medical Malpractice 50%

The firm is devoted to assisting medical malpractice and other personal injury victims in the New York City area. A broader overview of the firm and the past results can be found at the firm's website: www.TurkewitzLaw.com

41 years

50%
Personal Injury 50%

The Turkewitz Law Firm is devoted to assisting personal injury and medical malpractice victims in the New York City area. A more comprehensive overview of the firm and the past results can be found at the firm's website: www.TurkewitzLaw.com

41 years

50%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in New York for 40 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1986

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

The Turkewitz Law Firm

228 East 45th Street, New York, NY, 10017-3303

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Eric Turkewitz's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.5 /5.0

8 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (8) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 8 reviews

Posted by Murat | November 14, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury

I don't recommend him

About Eric: From the time we signed the agreement until the end of the trial, I did not have any concerns about him. But, just after the trial, I started to think and research the trial process. Actually, we (my wife and me) had not researched about the car accident trial process in the USA when we ...met with him. We were thinking that this was the expertise of our lawyer and it was not necessary to double check the details via the Internet. But, after the end of the trial, I started to research and I reached out to several lawyers and friends, who live in the USA, to ask my questions. Now, I want to summarize what I think. 1. In the agreement, he offered us to take first 1/3 of the compensation. At that time, we did not think about it. But right now, we see he took advantage of the fact that we did not know the law system in the USA. He did it in bad faith. (It is possible he could be sued for this unethical behavior.) Taking your 1/3 first is an unfair distribution of the compensation. He did not first deduct the expenses and he took his 1/3 after first. 2. Another point: An inflated amount ($ 8,000) of an expert fee. He found us a doctor and he paid the doctor we believe, again, this is an inflated amount. We agreed that he would pay the expenses first and he will deduct them from the compensation at the end of the trial. BUT, it does not mean that he can decide to make such a large payment without any notice. He never informed us it was such a high amount. He was there to protect our rights, not Doctor’s rights. This was his first responsibility. Ethically, this is a must for him. He signed the agreement with us. In this case, he might have paid –let’s say- $ 15,000 to Dr. X for his services. What would be the result? Will we pay him after the trial? Agreeing to pay the expenses does not give a lawyer unlimited freedom. Charging $ 8,000 for a single-day appearance in court on behalf of a PLAINTIFF is exorbitant even for New York. By taking his third first, he is not affected by unreasonable expenses which he deducts from client compensation. Besides this, due to the dispute we have right now, I will complain about him to the NY Bar.

Eric Turkewitz

Replied last November 14, 2018

I don't generally respond to negative online reviews for the simple reason that I think this is the first. But, having said that, and without disclosing any attorney-client privileges, let me respond: In all auto cases since 2014 the client is given the option of whether legal fees are deducted from the gross sum recovered, or from the net sum after accounting for expenses. If done off the net sum, the client will receive more at the end if the case is won (because the lawyer effectively pays ⅓ of the expenses). But the client is also responsible for the costs of litigation if the case is lost. If, on the other hand, the client chooses to have the legal fees deducted off the gross sum before expenses are deducted, then the client will receive less in the end if the case is won, but also isn't responsible for expenses if the matter is lost. Clients generally make that choice based upon their own tolerance for risk, and usually take the option of letting the lawyer be responsible for all case disbursements if the matter is lost. I wrote about this on my law blog back in 2014 when the rules changed: http://www.newyorkpersonalinjuryattorneyblog.com/2014/03/new-york-changing-its-contingency-fee-formula.html With respect to the fees for a doctor to take time off to read medical records and testify, this is always expensive (if you want an actual, practicing, physician instead of a doctor that only does medical-legal exams). If an orthopedic surgeon is testifying, for example, that doctor will not be doing surgeries, or seeing patients, or teaching, or otherwise bringing in revenue to pay the rent or employees that are necessary to keep an office running. A fee of $5,000 - $10,000 is a lot of money, but also what the going rate is in New York for a good orthopedic surgeon. (As an aside, it's worth noting that insurance companies are well aware of this financial burden, and use it to make low-ball offers to those that were injured in the hopes that they won't want to take on the risk of trial. This, oft times, represents bad faith negotiations by an insurer and there is legislation pending to address this. Each year I lobby my Legislature on this and other issues important to a decent civil justice system.) With respect to the particulars for any individual client, reaching out to me via email or phone (or in person for those who can) would probably be more productive in providing explanations.

Posted by Erik | June 21, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes

Honest, forthright, and an excellent tactition

Eric Turkewitz impressed me most with his willingness to help above and beyond any request I could make of him. He is patient with those he represents, especially in reviewing the finer points of New York law (and its occasional eccentricities.) Eric was masterful at knowing and executing on the... details that make up a successful case, instead of just the broad points that make someone believe "my cause is just." Simultaneously, he was downright generous with his time on our case; he answered queries and provided comment at all hours, far beyond the call of reasonable need. Eric is a consummate professional who cares about what he does, will fight for someone, and who gets things done. I would never hesitate to hire or recommend his services to anyone.

Posted by Antonin I. Pribetic | May 29, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes

A Lawyer's Lawyer

Eric Turkewitz represented me in the Rakofsky v. The Internet litigation. His litigation strategy and procedural tactics demonstrated a superior knowledge of New York local practice and American defamation law, including First Amendment principles. His collaborative approach, along with pro hac vice ...counsel, Marc Randazza, kept my co-defendants and I fully informed and ultimately vindicated our collective substantive defences and jurisdictional arguments. I would recommend Eric to any of my clients without reservation.

Posted by George | May 29, 2013 | Libel & Slander

A Masterful Advocate

A few years back, there was a prominent and successful thoroughbred race horse named "Masterful Advocate." Eric Turkewitz, who represented me - successfully - in the defense of an elaborate speech and defamation case, is a thoroughbred and a masterful advocate: attentive, prepared, highly capable, en...tirely ethical, unstinting in his devotion to his clients' cause. As an attorney myself, I view Eric Turkewitz as a shining example, a model of what an attorney should do and should be.

Posted by Josh | May 29, 2013 | Lawsuits & Disputes

Excellent Lawyer

Eric really knows his stuff - which is critical in the chaos that is civil litigation in New York. He represented me and my business in a defamation matter; I was out-of-state and needed local counsel. He did a great job navigating the litigation and keeping me informed throughout. That may se...em like a little thing, but many, many lawyers are really bad when it comes to proactively communicating with clients. I've hired lawyers all over the country for business litigation matters for nearly 20 years now, and Eric is right up there with the best I've worked with when it comes to professionalism, diligence and responsiveness. Highly recommend.

See All Client Reviews

Eric Turkewitz's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Eric
Paul F. Oliveri headshot
Paul Oliveri

Medical malpractice lawyer | May 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse Eric. I have known him for many years, and his knowledge of New York medical malpractice law is second to none."

David E. Waterbury headshot
David Waterbury

Medical malpractice lawyer | Feb 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Like his father before him, Eric is a formidable malpractice attorney. One of the very best in the State of New York. In addition, Eric also competently handles other types of personal injury cases with equal skill, dedication and success. If I were to be the victim of medical malpractice in New York, Eric would be on the very short list of lawyers I would be comfortable having handle my case. I highly endorse and recommend him."

Marc J. Randazza headshot
Marc Randazza

Lawsuits and disputes lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Eric is an excellent colleague. I handled a large, complex, litigation matter in state court in new york, and Eric was my "local counsel." But, he was no pro-hac monkey. Eric's knowledge of NY procedure, and the mentality of the judges was invaluable and instrumental to the victory. Based on knowing him through this experience, I would A) never hesitate to work with him on a matter in the future, and B) never hesitate to refer a matter to him. He is a top notch lawyer, and i am proud to have had the opportunity to stand next to him in court."

David Cone Wells headshot
David Wells

Libel and slander lawyer | May 29

Relationship: Other

"I needed a lawyer in New York City for an unusual legal matter involving a young attorney who had sued much of the internet, including me. I saw Eric's blog, in which he shared his thoughts on the matter, and the fact that he was serving as local counsel for a group of defendants, so I called him up. Eric was kind enough to accept me into his epic assemblage of clients, representing some of the finest in both American and Canadian blawging, such that I frequently feel unworthy to be in such esteemed company. I can't imagine the headache of representing more than a dozen lawyers sued for something they wrote on their blogs, as we lawyers are a surly lot on a good day. Eric was more than up to the task. He handled our case with deft precision and panache, and fought for us tirelessly all the way to victory. If you need a lawyer, I can say without any doubt in my mind that even though I only know a handful of lawyers in New York, Eric is by far the best you will ever encounter."

Nathaniel Burney headshot
Nathaniel Burney

Unknown lawyer | May 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"He's as solid as they come. Knows the law inside and out, advocates persuasively in court, and isn't afraid to stand up for what's right. Highly recommended."

Brian Lee Tannebaum headshot
Brian Tannebaum

Litigation lawyer | May 16

Relationship: Other

"One of the greatest endorsements for a lawyer is to say "if I ever had a legal issue, I would hire this lawyer." I did have a legal issue, and Eric was my lawyer. He handled the case with kid gloves, letting me know what was going on at all critical times, and explaining his state's legal process from A to Z. I can't imagine having another lawyer as my lawyer for a legal issue in New York, there just can't be a better lawyer in that entire state."

Jeffrey M. Gamso headshot
Jeffrey Gamso

Unknown lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Here's what I can tell you. When a bunch of lawyers needed a lawyer in New York, we turned to Eric. That's because lawyers know that when they need a lawyer, they need the best. He is. To say that his efforts were exceptional is to say too little. Representing lawyers is monstrously difficult. We're picky. We're prickly. We're sure we know better. Eric represented us with style and grace and excellence. And oh, yeah, we won the case. Eric's real field is medical malpractice. Ours was a defamation case. If he's this good at something he took outside his field of expertise, just imagine how good he is at what he concentrates on. I endorse Eric without reservation."

Eric Lynn Mayer headshot
Eric Mayer

Personal injury lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Since entering private practice in 2010, any time I receive a call from someone who was injured unjustly and needs representation in a civil matter, I consult with Eric. He always steered me in the right direction, and potential clients were always better because of his influence and assistance. Personally, I trust Eric with any matter, including my own. He is patient, detail-oriented, thorough, and a pillar of his community. A friend and mentor to many, he is what we should all aspire to be."

Leo Michael Mulvihill Jr. headshot
Leo Mulvihill

Medical malpractice lawyer | May 14

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Eric Turkewitz is a stellar advocate whose knowledge is evidenced by the fact that he successfully guided several other well-respected attorneys on proper procedure and practice before New York Courts, leading to the ultimate dismissal of a high-profile case. And anyone who's dealt with a group of lawyers before knows that telling a group of attorneys what to do is akin to herding cats. But Eric successfully did it. This knowledge, paired with his skills gained in years successful practice as an advocate for the injured, mean that he's on the top of my list when I need to refer a case to a personal injury or medical malpractice attorney in New York. I wholeheartedly endorse him."

A Jordan Rushie headshot
A Rushie

Medical malpractice lawyer | May 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Eric is one of the best attorneys that I know. He is not afraid to try a case and do what he thinks is right. He is also a constant sounding board for me, with unmatched wisdom and guidance. When I have difficult questions about things, Eric is always patient enough to answer them. Eric is the type of lawyer younger guys like myself aspire to be. I wouldn't hire anyone else in New York for a civil matter or personal injury lawsuit. Eric represents everything that is right with the legal profession."

Mark W. Bennett headshot
Mark Bennett

Personal injury lawyer | May 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"When seventy-some lawyers who write (including me) got sued for defamation in New York, a bunch of us got together and hired a dream team to defend the case. We wanted the best, so we chose Eric Turkewitz as our local counsel. Lawyers and the mentally ill make the most difficult clients. Despite dozens of lawyers on our side and a mentally ill lawyer-plaintiff on the other, Eric managed to steer our case safely to dismissal. Defending lawyers sued for defamation by crazy people is not Eric's core competency—where Eric really shines is in helping people who have been injured by other people's negligence—but the talent, style, grace, and compasson (not to mention encyclopedic knowledge of the law) that Eric applied in winning our case are the same traits that make him great at what he does best: getting justice for injured human beings. I would refer my clients to Eric Turkewitz. I would refer my family to Eric Turkewitz. I refer you to Eric Turkewitz."

Scott H. Greenfield headshot
Scott Greenfield

Medical malpractice lawyer | Jun 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Eric Turkewitez is one of the most knowledge, fair and concerned Med Mal attorneys in New York. A client would be exceptionally fortunate to have Eric representing him. I wholeheartedly endorse Eric Turkewitz."

View All Endorsements
Paul F. Oliveri headshot
Paul Oliveri

Medical malpractice lawyer

David E. Waterbury headshot
David Waterbury

Personal injury lawyer

Marc J. Randazza headshot
Marc Randazza

Libel and slander lawyer

Mark W. Bennett headshot
Mark Bennett

Criminal defense lawyer

Brian Lee Tannebaum headshot
Brian Tannebaum

Ethics and professional responsibility lawyer

Scott H. Greenfield headshot
Scott Greenfield

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.4 (Superb)

Honors

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2012

ABA Blawg 100 (Honoree), ABA Law Journal

2012

ABA Law Blog Hall of Fame, ABA Law Journal

2012

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2011

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2011

ABA Blawg 100 (Honoree), ABA Journal

2010

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2010

ABA Blawg 100 (Honoree), ABA Journal

2009

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2009

ABA Blawg 100 (Honoree), ABA Journal

2008

ABA Blawg 100 (Honoree), ABA Journal

Work Experience

1995 - 1998

Associate, Fuchsberg & Fuchsberg

1989 - 2015

Principal, The Turkewitz Law Firm

Associations

American Bar Association

Member

New York State Trial Lawyers Association

Member

American Association for Justice

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Anonymous v. Port Authority

Verdict $1,454,000 (two trials, appeal, interest)

Anonymous v. Anonymous

Settled, $3.45M

Anonymous v. Bus Company

Settled, $750,000

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$1.2M

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$1.475 jury verdict

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$1M present value (lifetime payment of $3.07M)

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$1.87M Settlement, mid-trial

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$1.015M

Turkewitz v. Fuchsberg

$2.5M verdict

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$750K (future value $2.2M)

Anonymous v. Anonymous

$1.49M

See More Legal Cases

Education

1985

State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1982

State University of New York, Albany

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2013

CLE-New York State Trial Lawyers

PR for the Personal Injury Attorney (And New York's Anti-Solicitation Rule)

2012

2010

Radius of Influence Better Blogging Practices

2008

2005

Pharma Secure Chain

Strengthening the End-to-End Integrity of Your Supply Chain against Counterfeiting, Diversion and Product Loss

2004

Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Summit

Counterfeit Drugs

2003

Counterfeit Drug Task Force

Counterfeit Drugs

Publications

Languages

English

Spanish

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