Jason Rappaport State Bar: Navigating the Legal Landscape with Expertise in Bankruptcy and Restructuring
The legal profession is filled with individuals who have contributed significantly to various sectors. One such professional is Jason Rappaport, a renowned attorney who is part of the New York State Bar. He has built a reputation for excellence in corporate restructuring and bankruptcy law and is a certified public accountant. His expertise spans several years and encompasses high-profile cases that have shaped corporate and financial landscapes. This article explores Jason Rappaport’s career, his impact on law and finance, and the importance of his contributions to corporate restructuring.
Who is Jason Rappaport?
Jason Rappaport is an attorney who was admitted to the New York State Bar in January 2009. His career in law has been marked by his focus on corporate restructuring and bankruptcy proceedings. He has held key roles at prominent law firms, including Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP, where he was an associate in the Corporate Restructuring & Bankruptcy Group. His expertise extends beyond the courtroom, as he holds a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation from the State of Illinois, issued in January 2006.
Rappaport’s unique combination of legal and financial knowledge has made him a trusted advisor in the complex world of corporate restructuring. This blend of expertise allows him to navigate the intricacies of financial insolvencies and guide companies through rugged legal terrains.
Early Career and Education
Jason Rappaport’s legal career is rooted in his solid educational background. He attended Fordham University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 2008. During his time there, he was actively involved in various legal activities and societies, including the Dean’s List and the Fordham Intellectual Property, Media, and Entertainment Law Journal. He also received the Archibald R. Murray Public Service Award, which showcases his commitment to legal excellence and public service.
Before pursuing a career in law, Rappaport earned a Master of Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Florida. His academic achievements in accounting and his subsequent CPA certification provided him with a strong foundation in financial analysis, which became invaluable in his legal practice.
Joining the New York State Bar and Early Legal Experience
Jason Rappaport’s career trajectory shifted when he joined the New York State Bar in January 2009. He began his legal practice at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP, where he honed his skills in corporate restructuring and bankruptcy. His work in the Corporate Restructuring & Bankruptcy Group allowed him to work with various clients, from unsecured creditors to third-party investors.
While at Kramer Levin, Rappaport gained significant experience analyzing disclosure statements, reorganization plans, and credit facilities. His ability to interpret and advise on complex financial and legal documents made him a valuable asset to the firm.
Role at Frejka PLLC and Expertise in Corporate Restructuring
After his tenure at Kramer Levin, Jason Rappaport took on a new challenge at Frejka PLLC, where he served as CounselCounsel from 2015 to 2017. In this role, Rappaport provided transactional and litigation counsel to various stakeholders in Chapter 11 reorganizations and out-of-court corporate restructurings. He represented clients ranging from secured and unsecured creditors to hedge funds and directors involved in corporate bankruptcy cases.
One of his notable contributions during this period was his involvement in high-profile cases such as the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy and the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) restructuring. These cases underscored his ability to navigate intricate legal proceedings, particularly those involving significant financial stakes.
General Counsel at Universal Standard: Expanding the Legal Horizon
In 2018, Jason Rappaport took on the role of General Counsel at Universal Standard, a leading fashion company based in New York. In this capacity, he has played an instrumental role in managing the company’s legal matters, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and overseeing corporate governance. His legal acumen has been essential in navigating Universal Standard’s expansion and growth in the competitive fashion industry.
Beyond his role as General Counsel, Rappaport has also held leadership positions at Universal Standard, including Head of Retail and Chief of Staff. His contributions to the company extend beyond legal advice; he has been pivotal in driving business development and operational efficiency.
Certified Public Accountant: The Financial Edge
Jason Rappaport’s CPA certification adds another layer of expertise to his legal practice. As a Certified Public Accountant, he brings financial acumen that complements his legal insights. This combination of skills is precious in bankruptcy and corporate restructuring cases, where financial analysis and legal strategy intersect.
His background in accounting allows him to provide a more comprehensive understanding of financial transactions, making him an effective advocate for clients in complex corporate cases. Whether analyzing financial statements or negotiating reorganization plans, Rappaport’s dual expertise gives him a unique edge in his practice.
Significant Legal Achievements and High-Profile Cases
Throughout his career, Jason Rappaport has been involved in several high-profile legal cases that have shaped corporate restructuring in the United States. Some of the notable cases include:
- Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc.: Representing swap counterparties in connection with termination claims against the bankrupt financial giant Lehman Brothers, Rappaport played a crucial role in navigating the complexities of one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history.
- Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA): Rappaport represented bondholders in a litigation case against PREPA, challenging the constitutionality of a newly passed act that allowed public corporations to restructure their debts.
- Sports Authority Holdings, Inc.: As CounselCounsel to the fee examiner, Rappaport provided critical guidance during the bankruptcy proceedings of this major sporting goods retailer.
- Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities, LLC: Rappaport represented defrauded Madoff investors in clawback litigation, a susceptible and complex case following the largest Ponzi scheme in history.
New York Metro Super Lawyers Recognition
In recognition of his legal expertise, New York Metro Super Lawyers named Jason Rappaport a “Rising Star” in 2015. This prestigious accolade is awarded to attorneys who demonstrate exceptional legal ability and have garnered the respect of their peers in the legal community.
The Role of the New York State Bar in Shaping Legal Careers
The New York State Bar Association plays a vital role in shaping the legal careers of attorneys like Jason Rappaport. Membership in the State Bar provides access to a network of legal professionals and ensures adherence to the highest ethical standards. Attorneys who are members of the State Bar, like Rappaport, are held to rigorous standards of professionalism, ensuring that they provide the best possible representation to their clients.
Conclusion: A Legal Career Defined by Excellence
Jason Rappaport’s career as an attorney admitted to the New York State Bar is marked by his dedication to excellence in corporate restructuring and bankruptcy law. His dual expertise as a Certified Public Accountant and attorney has allowed him to navigate complex financial and legal landscapes easily. From high-profile bankruptcy cases to his leadership role at Universal Standard, Rappaport’s contributions to the legal profession are significant.
As he continues shaping the legal landscape, Rappaport remains a shining example of what it means to excel in law and finance, setting a high standard for attorneys within the New York State Bar.
