Howrey LLP v. Casden
Defendant Alan Casden appeals a judgment confirming an arbitration award in favor of his former law firm, plaintiff Howrey LLP, finding Casden liable for unpaid attorney fees, as well as costs and interest, totaling approximately $5 million, plus interest until the judgment is paid. The arbitration award arose because Casden had failed to pay Howreys bills for several legal matters that Howrey handled for Casden and his related companies.
Court affirm because the arbitrators decision was well within the scope of his authority under the parties arbitration agreement, which encompassed the arbitration of any dispute concerning [Howreys] representation, including disputes regarding the amount of fees or the quality of [Howreys] services. Casden argues the defense of accord and satisfaction, and he claims a lack of joint and several liability with his companies and thus Casdens purported lack of individual responsibility for the legal fees incurred. However, Casden is precluded on appeal from relitigating issues within the scope of the arbitrators authority.
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