A Legal Battle Over Business Relationships and Fees
The Case Overview
On June 27, 2024, a significant legal dispute unfolded involving the Law Office of Keith Altman PLLC and the Lento Law Firm LLC. Attorney Keith Altman has filed an amended complaint in Michigan federal court, accusing Pennsylvania attorney Joseph D. Lento and his firm of conspiring with a former joint client to file a grievance complaint against him. The aim, Altman alleges, was to gain leverage in a separate lawsuit stemming from a soured business relationship and unpaid fees.
The Allegations
Keith Altman claims that Lento Law Firm owes his firm $365,000 as part of an agreement to settle a fee dispute and terminate their business relationship. According to the complaint, the two firms began their partnership in May 2020, with a 60-40 fee split arrangement, where Lento was the attorney of record. At one point, Altman says Lento owed $770,000 in attorney fees. To resolve the dispute, Lento offered to pay $365,000 and take back all inactive cases, but Altman alleges that this payment has not been made.
The Role of the Former Client
Central to this dispute is Branden Gulla, a former split-fee client who later worked as Altman’s personal assistant. Gulla was fired for cause and subsequently became Lento’s client in another matter. Altman alleges that Gulla, with Lento’s influence, filed a misconduct complaint against him with the Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission. The complaint included details that Gulla would not have known without Lento’s input, suggesting a conspiracy to harm Altman’s reputation and gain an upper hand in the ongoing legal battle.
Legal Proceedings and Claims
Altman’s complaint includes several claims:
- Breach of Contract
- Civil Conspiracy
- Tortious Interference
- Libel and Defamation
Altman asserts that Lento and Gulla’s actions were part of a strategy to leverage the grievance complaint in Lento’s separate lawsuit against Altman in New Jersey federal court. This New Jersey case, filed in August 2022, involved racketeering claims against Altman, alleging he diverted cases to his own practice and performed subpar work.
Current Legal Status
The misconduct complaint against Altman was dismissed in April, and both Gulla and Lento have denied any conspiracy. Gulla maintains that his grievance was legitimate, and Lento claims he did not instruct or conspire with Gulla. Both have requested that Gulla be removed from the case, arguing he was fraudulently joined to “destroy diversity” and have the case remanded to state court.
Implications for Criminal Defense Firms
This case underscores the importance of clear contractual agreements and ethical conduct in legal partnerships. For criminal defense firms, especially those specializing in sensitive areas like Title IX claims, maintaining professional integrity and transparent business practices is crucial.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Firm?
At Kirsch Daskas Law Group, we understand the complexities and challenges of legal disputes. Our team is dedicated to providing expert legal representation and safeguarding your rights. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Expert Legal Knowledge: Our attorneys are well-versed in the latest legal precedents and defense strategies.
- Personalized Attention: We offer individualized attention to each case, ensuring thorough and dedicated representation.
- Proven Track Record: Our success in defending clients speaks for itself.
If you face legal challenges, we are here to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
