“Eric is the litigator par excellence. He is smart, knows the franchise area intimately and is a very good trial attorney. We have entrusted Eric with important matters over the years, with outstanding results, and I have no hesitation in calling on him to represent our company in court. He is excellent,” said one client.

Eric Yaffe provides exceptional advocacy and strategic support in high-stakes litigation and investigations nationwide. When asked about his litigation approach, Eric said, “I maintain a commitment to the success of our clients. My job is to overturn every stone and know the case better than my adversary. I advocate vigorously while looking for opportunities to resolve matters in a manner that will achieve our client’s goals.”

Complex & Franchise Litigation

With a history of more than 60 trials, Eric handles complex legal challenges for multi-billion-dollar corporations and individuals. Eric excels in complex civil and franchise litigation as well as white-collar criminal matters where he brings a strategic and meticulous approach to each matter. Clients benefit from his deep knowledge, strategic acumen and unwavering commitment to achieving favorable results, making him a formidable advocate in both high-stakes litigation and ethics matters.

His practice encompasses a broad spectrum of industries that reflect his ability to navigate diverse and intricate landscapes. These industries include:

  • Automotive dealerships
  • Franchise & distribution
  • Health care
  • Hospitality / Hotels
  • Non-profits
  • Restaurants, food & beverage
  • Technology

Ethics & Professional Responsibility

Eric’s commitment to legal ethics further distinguishes him. He has provided invaluable counsel to law firms and individuals on admissions to the bar and alleged violations of the rules of professional conduct. He has been retained by clients as an authority on ethics matters. His current roles as chair of the Advisory Committee on Admissions and Grievances for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, and Vice-Chair of the D.C. Legal Ethics Committee, along with his previous position as Chair of the Board on Professional Responsibility for the District of Columbia, underscore his dedication to upholding the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.

Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense

Eric is the chair of Lathrop GPM’s Investigations & White-Collar Defense team and represents corporations and individuals in white-collar and government investigations, addressing issues from health care and financial fraud to government contract fraud and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations. His adept defense of clients in complex investigations ensures that the clients receive comprehensive and strategic legal support tailored to their specific needs. His practice covers, among other matters, the False Claims Act, trade secrets, fraud, insider trading, conflicts of interest, antitrust, bribery and election law violations.

Before joining the firm, Eric worked for the U.S. Department of Justice, where he was an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, a Trial Attorney in the Public Integrity Section and Deputy Chief of the Department’s Campaign Financing Task Force. His background as a federal government prosecutor enhances his ability to navigate and resolve complex government investigations.

When asked…

Why did you become a lawyer?

I became an attorney because I wanted to help individuals and organizations resolve legal issues in an effective and meaningful way. I always enjoyed writing and debating, so becoming a litigator seemed like a natural fit for me. In addition, the law’s intricacy and complexity drew me in. Every day brings new challenges, which I thought would make the practice of law interesting and rewarding. To this day, I have always found that to be true.

What do you do outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy outdoor activities like jogging, playing tennis and hiking. I love spending time with my family, including my children and grandchildren, and I am an avid follower of Boston sports teams.