Howard J. Kaplan, Esq. brings more than three decades of experience in litigation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to his role as a neutral. His extensive background includes both corporate and legal positions within a major national insurance company, providing him with a well-rounded understanding of the perspectives of all parties involved in complex disputes.

A member of NAM’s Hearing Officer Panel for over ten years, Mr. Kaplan has served as both arbitrator and mediator in a wide range of personal injury cases, including automobile liability, premises liability. Over the course of his ADR career, he has participated in hundreds of arbitrations and mediations, earning the respect of both plaintiff and defense counsel for his even-handed evaluations and ability to facilitate productive resolutions.

Mr. Kaplan’s professional experience includes leadership roles such as Senior Trial Attorney, Regional Managing Attorney overseeing multiple house counsel offices across Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island; National House Counsel Trainer and Risk Manager; and Large Loss Managing Attorney, responsible for a multitude of cases in downstate New York. Currently a partner at a respected New York law firm, he handles the litigation of complex, high-exposure civil matters.

Throughout his career, Mr. Kaplan has tried cases in every major court within the New York metropolitan area as well as in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties. He has also lectured nationally on topics including trial strategy, negotiation techniques, seatbelt defense, and medical issues in litigation.

Recognized amongst his peers for his in-depth legal and medical knowledge, Mr. Kaplan is widely regarded for his balanced, pragmatic approach to dispute resolution and is known for his fair valuation of claims. An avid supporter of ADR, he views arbitration and mediation as efficient and effective methods to achieve fair and timely outcomes for all parties. Mr. Kaplan has a keen ability to bring parties together based on his years of experience as a trial attorney and negotiator.

Mr. Kaplan is available to arbitrate and mediate cases throughout New York and New Jersey.