Radnor, PA, October 24, 2024 — Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP today announced that name partner David Kessler is retiring at the end of the year following 28 years of service dedicated to helping shape the firm into one of the most respected players in securities class action litigation.
During his career, Kessler had important roles on some of the most historically significant securities class actions. One of the landmark cases that cemented the firm’s reputation was the Tyco fraud and mismanagement litigation, which resolved for over $3 billion. Following the financial crisis of 2008, Kessler was instrumental in recovering more than $5 billion for clients and class members invested in companies such as Wachovia, Bank of America, Citigroup, and Lehman Brothers. In recent years, Kessler and his firm have represented institutional investors in a wide range of cases against pharmaceutical, technology, and electric vehicle companies.
Kessler began his career in the wake of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act (PSLRA) of 1995, which dramatically altered the landscape of securities litigation. Joining in 1996 as one of just six attorneys, Kessler helped the firm adapt to the new law.
With a background as a CPA, he also gave the firm credibility in complex financial fraud cases, allowing it to compete with more established players. Under his leadership, the firm has grown to nearly 100 attorneys and 80 staff members and is recognized globally for its expertise in securities litigation and investor protection.
“We started out as the new kid on the block,” recalled Kessler. “Today, the market sees us as one of the go-to firms. I am incredibly proud of what we have built.”
Over the past two years, Kessler has been focused on succession planning, ensuring a strong bench of talented attorneys is ready to take the firm forward. Reflecting on his departure, Kessler emphasized the importance of knowing when to step aside.
“Our training motto has always been to teach somebody to replace yourself, and then you can move on to something bigger or something different,” Kessler said. “But at this point, I’ve really accomplished everything I’ve set out to do. The firm is in great shape, my departure will allow for its continued growth and I’m still young enough to truly enjoy my retirement. That’s how I know it’s the right time.”
Joseph Meltzer, a partner at the firm, said the firm is poised for its next chapter, with the resources, talent, and leadership in place to maintain its legacy of excellence.
“David has been a steadying influence around here for longer than I can remember—especially as we found our footing in the early years,” said Meltzer. “David’s approach to management and leadership has been a great example for us, myself included, and has put us on a path toward continued success.”
Gregory Castaldo, a partner at the firm, added: “David was the driving force behind transforming a relatively unknown boutique law firm into one of the top class action litigation firms in the world today. While his vision, execution, and mentorship will be dearly missed by me and many others at the firm, David’s leadership and tireless work ethic have positioned the firm for a very bright future. Salute to a wonderful career.”
Partner Darren Check, reflecting on David’s career and his many years of working closely with him, stated “Since my first days at the Firm David has been a mentor and someone to look up to. He has been integral in us growing from a small player into one of the premier firms in the field representing many of the largest institutional investors in the world. His influence on the Firm and the legacy he is leaving cannot be overstated. Most importantly, I’ll miss working with him, but look forward to watching him enjoy his retirement.”
About Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com.
CONTACT:
Jamie Rollo
jrollo@infiniteglobal.com
973-901-1970