Joel M. Miller
Of Counsel
New York
jmiller@goulstonstorrs.com+1 212 878 5039Joel M. Miller
Of Counsel, New York
jmiller@goulstonstorrs.com+1 212 878 5039Related Expertise
Clients turn to Joel Miller when they need a true trial lawyer. Esteemed for his intense personal commitment to clients – and deep experience with complex commercial, financial, and securities transactions – Joel is often asked to take over cases when others have not successfully resolved complex problems.
Known for his impressive track record and talent as an aggressive trial lawyer, Joel is recognized as a leading commercial litigator in New York. Joel represents companies and C-suite executives, law firms, and lawyers in a broad range of complex commercial disputes. These matters involve securities transactions, finance and lending arrangements, complex instruments and derivatives, mortgage securitizations, mortgage servicing, and other financial matters. Joel advises on real estate, executive movement and employment disputes. He also counsels clients on structuring and negotiating contracts and transactions to minimize the potential for future litigation.
He regularly represents clients not only in state and federal courts, but also in industry and private arbitrations and mediations. Based on his vast success, clients often request Joel’s help in various courts outside of New York. He also represents clients in enforcement actions and investigations by the Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Thrift Supervision, the U.S. Department of Justice, FINRA and other oversight bodies.
Beyond the Courtroom
As balance to his trial work, Joel is passionate about contemporary art. Driven to give generously of his time in this area, Joel serves as a Trustee of the Independent Curators International ("ICI"). This non-profit was established in 1975 and focuses on the role of the curator as a force in contemporary art. ICI also connects emerging and established curators, artists and art space into regional and international networks, and it produces exhibitions, events, publications, research and training opportunities for curators and diverse audiences around the world.
Related Representative Matters
Federal court summary judgment dismissing action against former CEO of thrift institution by purchasers of thrift's securities.
Major law firm in adversary proceedings by bankruptcy trustee alleging fraudulent conveyance, successor liability, and “unfinished business” claims. Successfully argued in New York Court of Appeals that the doctrine does not apply under New York law, leading to dismissal of similar claims in California.
Defended FINRA arbitration; secured rare pre-discovery dismissal based on age of claim and potential family testimony.
Replaced counsel after adverse summary judgment in $20M securities case; secured order vacating judgment and settled on eve of trial for fraction of exposure.
Defeated employer’s motion to compel arbitration of indemnification claim by proving waiver from prior refusal to arbitrate.
Took over defense of bank in CA breach of warranty case over mortgage loan portfolio.
Revised trial strategy with Florida counsel, leveraging aggressive approach to secure favorable settlement.
Represented mortgage servicer in bankruptcy adversary proceeding over purchase of subprime servicing rights.
Defended hedge fund principals against SEC and criminal charges; avoided indictment and favorably settled SEC claims.
Advised international bank on daily maritime writs of attachment targeting millions in wire transfers.
Secured highly favorable pre-hearing settlements for institutional investors in auction rate securities litigation.
Defeated attempt to terminate mutual fund advisory contract based on fraud allegations.
Defended broker-dealer in investor claim over real estate partnership; settled minimally during discovery.
Defended partner in malpractice claim deemed indefensible; cross-examination led claimant to abandon case.
Won dismissal for international law firm sued over $50M fraudulent note transaction closing opinion.
Represented bank in FINRA arbitration over former employee’s deferred compensation claims.
Defended major investment bank in litigation/arbitration against defecting employees; obtained TROs protecting trade secrets.
Defended attorney accused of aiding clients’ torts; secured dismissal limiting lawyer liability.
Defended two bank employees in $25M arbitration claim for raiding and theft of confidential information.
Accolades
- New York Metro Super Lawyers, Business Litigation, 2007-2024
Affiliations
- American Bar Association
- New York State Bar
- The City Bar of New York
- Committee on International Litigation, New York State Bar Association
Admissions
- New York
Education
Columbia University School of Law ( J.D. , Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar )
Amherst College ( B.A. , cum laude )