Matthew Z. Earle has been an integral part of the firm since
April 2007, bringing a wealth of experience to his practice that spans diverse
legal areas. He specializes in community association law, construction defect
litigation, general equity litigation, real estate tax appeals, international
law, municipal land use, and commercial litigation in both New Jersey and New
York's state and federal courts.
Within the realm of community association law, Mr. Earle
provides comprehensive legal services, guiding clients through critical aspects
such as the transition from developer to unit owner control, interpretation and
amendment of governing documents, and the preparation of corporate documents.
His proficiency extends to advising on risk management, insurance coverage
issues, fiduciary duties, covenant enforcement, arrears collection, and
association elections. In addition, Mr. Earle represents community associations
and individual owners in litigated matters, including construction defects,
breach of contract, elections, and covenant enforcement.
A dedicated professional, Mr. Earle is not only an
accomplished attorney but also a sought-after instructor. He frequently leads
courses for fellow attorneys and association board members on topics including
community association law, community association elections, and construction
law. As a member of the New Jersey Chapter of the Community Association
Institute (CAI-NJ) and the CAI-NJ Legislative Action Committee, he actively
contributes to shaping proposed laws that impact community associations.
Beyond community association work, Mr. Earle boasts
extensive experience in handling complex litigation matters. His diverse
portfolio includes commercial contract claims, fraud claims, complex foreclosure
claims, employment discrimination claims, defense of ADA claims,
landlord-tenant matters, and civil rights claims. Additionally, he represents
clients in development applications before zoning and planning boards.
Fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Mr. Earle leverages his language
skills to resolve disputes for Chinese-based corporations and clients in the
United States, as well as assisting U.S.-based clients in resolving disputes in
China.
Before joining the firm, Mr. Earle worked for a law firm in
New York City specializing in serving Chinese-speaking clients. As a summer
clerk for the Honorable M. Faith Angell, U.S. District Court, Eastern District
of Pennsylvania, he gained valuable experience early in his legal career.
Mr. Earle's dedication to the legal profession is reflected
in his publications, presentations, and honors. He has been selected to the
"Rising Stars" list by the New Jersey Super Lawyers Magazine from
2010 to 2017 and named a Bergen County "Top Lawyer" by (201) Magazine
in 2013 and 2017. His contributions extend to publications such as "A
Tribute to Frederic L. Kirgis" and articles in the New Jersey Cooperator
Magazine and Community Trends. Mr. Earle's commitment to legal excellence is
further demonstrated by his involvement in professional associations, including
the New Jersey Bar Association and the Bergen County Bar Association, where he
serves on the General Equity and Construction Law Committees.
