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.
