Edward H. Davis Jr. and Andres H. Sandoval assess the Panama Papers leak’s impact on transparency and why asset recovery lags due to evidentiary challenges and litigation hurdles. Panama Papers update: progress and impediments Open Legal Insights Open November 10, 2017 7 minutes read Sequor Law Scandalous revelations of suspicious financial activity exposed by the Panama Papers have toppled political leaders, induced regulatory reforms and prompted greater cooperation from Panama itself towards international efforts to combat tax evasion. But Edward H Davis Jr and Andres H Sandoval would like to see more headway in the area of asset recovery. In April 2016 the Suddeutsche Zeitung released the ground-breaking publication covering the ‘Panama Papers’ – a massive leak of 11.5 million documents from the Panamanian Mossack Fonseca firm and its affiliates, formerly the world’s fourth-largest provider of offshore incorporation services. Shortly thereafter, due largely to the efforts of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), limited information extracted from the Panama Papers was digitised and disseminated to the public in the searchable Offshore Leaks Database maintained on the ICIJ’s website. [1] The impact of the Panama Papers leak in the political, journalistic, investigative and financial arenas is plain to see. However, well over a year later, the Panama Papers fervour is only now creeping into the asset recovery arena. That it has taken this long to arrive is frustrating, but perhaps predictable in light of evidentiary concerns and the inherent difficulty in commencing litigation. Regardless, this signals the next step in combating tax evasion, corruption, fraud and money laundering in the wake of the historic leak. Facts and figures The global effect and pervasiveness of the Panama Papers leak is unrivalled. The 11.5 million leaked documents, dating back nearly 40 years, contain information on more than 214,000 offshore entities, in more than 200 jurisdictions, created by Mossack Fonseca. Major financial institutions alone drove the creation of nearly 15,600 offshore entities. Of these financial institutions, HSBC and its affiliates were responsible for the creation of more than 2,300 offshore corporate vehicles. Others, such as Banque J Safra, UBS AG and Societe Generale, were not far behind. The Panama Papers also exposed 140 politicians from over 50 countries to charges of bribery and corruption for allegedly improper ties to offshore corporate vehicles in no fewer than 21 financial havens. As a result, 14 current and former heads of state as well as over 30 current and former politicians or public figures have come under scrutiny by governmental bodies. Several top government and corporate officials have cracked under the pressure, including, notably, the former Prime Minister of Iceland, Sigmundur Davia Gunnlaugsson, who resigned just days after the initial media coverage of the Panama Papers leak. Other political figures have been faced with high- profile investigations, including Argentina’s Mauricio Macri, Ukraine’s Petro Poroshenko and Pakistan’s former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif. These investigations are bearing fruit. In late July 2017, Pakistan’s Supreme Court deemed Sharif unfit to be a member of parliament for reasons of dishonesty and corruption. The Supreme Court’s decision is the culmination of months of proceedings sparked by the Panama Papers leak, which linked Sharif’s family members to purchases of luxury real estate in London through offshore corporate vehicles. Further, on 31 July 2017, the National Accountability Bureau, Pakistan’s top anti-corruption unit, announced it would file formal corruption charges against Sharif, his children, son-in-law and the former Pakistani Finance Minister, Ishaq Dar. Beneficial effects Among the seemingly more positive effects, the Panama Papers leak has fuelled a global push towards transparency and accessibility of information regarding the ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) of opaque offshore entities and accounts. Just weeks after the leak, the United States executive administration under former President Barack Obama announced it would implement regulatory reform to increase financial transparency and combat tax evasion, corruption and money laundering. Among the various measures, in May 2016, the US Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) promulgated new rules on customer due diligence requirements, which require financial institutions to identify any natural person beneficially owning more than 25% of, or otherwise controlling, the institution’s legal entity customers. Similar initiatives are being pushed in the United Kingdom, Germany and others in the G20 group. Only time will tell if these initiatives prove to be effective or are just window dressing. Cleaning the backyard The Panama Papers leak has also exerted pressure on countries previously resistant to increased financial transparency – namely, Panama. In 2016, Panama’s Vice President Isabel de Saint Malo pledged Panama’s willingness to sign the Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters – an agreement developed jointly by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) and the Council of Europe to combat tax evasion through the automatic sharing of residents’ financial information. Holding fast to that pledge, on 3 March 2017, Panama deposited with the OECD its instrument of ratification of the Convention, which came into force in Panama on 1 July 2017. Panama has also signed an information-sharing treaty with Mexico and continues its negotiation of similar agreements with Spain, Italy, Germany, the UK and Switzerland. As of 12 June 2017, the OECD reports 112 jurisdictions currently participating in the Convention. Delayed Recovery Where the Panama Papers have had much less impact than was originally hoped for is in the asset recovery arena. Following the leak, early commentators predicated litigation in the financial havens themselves, such as the British Virgin Islands, Jersey, Hong Kong and Panama, as well as financial centres that may house assets or UBOs, such as Switzerland, the UK and the US. However, now over one year later, this litigation has largely yet to be seen. This is disappointing in light of estimates that as much as 8% of the world’s financial wealth (approximately US$7.6 trillion) is held in financial havens. Further, according to Gabriel Zucman, economist, professor and author of The Hidden Wealth of Nations, as much as 80% of that hidden wealth is not reported to the tax authorities of any country. Equally astounding, the Stolen Asset Recovery (StAR) Initiative – a partnership between the World Bank Group and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to promote international efforts to end financial havens for corrupt funds and prevent the laundering of the proceedings of corruption – estimates that up to US$40 billion per year is stolen by corrupt public officials around the world. Those most affected by this hidden wealth are the citizens of the governments susceptible to tax evasion, corruption and the illicit diversion of funds, as well as the victims of fraud where the opaque corporate structures are used to hide the proceeds of these crimes. As a result, these jurisdictions often suffer from undeveloped infrastructure, failing health facilities and inadequate educational institutions. While it may be no less important to investigate and expose the corrupt actors that prey on these governments, there must also be a focus on and concerted effort to recover the value that has been secreted in financial havens and often elsewhere. A Start There may be signs of change, however. On 14 July 2017, the US Department of Justice commenced a civil forfeiture proceeding against approximately US$144 million in assets – primarily, a luxury yacht and Manhattan real estate-allegedly representing the proceeds of corruption, bribery and money laundering. The allegations concern prominent businessmen Kolawole Akanni Aluko and Olajide Omokore, and Nigeria’s former Minister for Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke. The US alleges in part that Aluko and Omokore purchased, luxury real estate in London and high-end furniture for Alison-Madueke’s benefit and, in return, Alison-Madueke used her influence to steer lucrative state oil contracts to companies ultimately owned or controlled by Aluko and Omokore. The ICIJ’s Will Fitzgibbon first reported in July 2016 on the links between Aluko, Omokore and Alison-Madueke as detailed in the Panama Papers. This led to investigations in Nigeria, the UK and elsewhere. Evidence and privilege concerns So, what is the reason for the tardy arrival of the Panama Papers’ impact in the asset recovery arena? Firstly, a lack of competent evidence. The ICIJ’s Offshore Leaks Database largely, if not entirely, lacks source documentation. The same is true of the ICIJ’s database for the ‘Swiss Leaks’ and the ‘Luxembourg Leaks’ in previous years (other than documents expressly approved by Luxembourg authorities). Similarly, it is unclear to what extent, if at all, the Panamanian authorities have disseminated to the public or shared with authorities of other countries the documents seized from Mossack Fonseca’s offices following the initial leak. While there may be legitimate reasons for restricting the disclosure of source documentation, the availability of only extracted and secondary information poses hearsay, trustworthiness and other evidentiary problems for authorities, asset recovery professionals and victims in constructing asset recovery cases. More must be done to allow access to this critical information. Secondly, it is an open issue as to whether information taken from the Panama Papers is privileged or protected. Additionally, the issue is complicated by the possible application of foreign law, making it difficult to know which privilege rules apply. Though exceptions to privilege may exist, such as the crime-fraud exception under US law or the iniquity exception under English law, this issue must be weighed carefully. Rather, a best practice would be to treat the Offshore Leaks Database as an important tool in the investigative toolbox and a springboard to pursue additional disclosure in the appropriate jurisdiction. In this respect, emerging asset tracing techniques in recent years can assist greatly in closing the fence around intricate offshore structures. With respect to the US, these techniques include pursuing disclosure proceedings in aid of foreign litigation under 28 USC § 1782, the subpoenaing of information from banks in order to trace the flow of monies through different jurisdictions, and seeking recognition of foreign bankruptcy proceedings under the UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency. By using the Model Law, foreign bankruptcy trustees can gain access to US-style discovery and broad turnover powers of assets within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States. Whatever the reason for the delay, the fervour to see positive change prompted by the Panama Papers must now enter the next phase: concerted efforts to pursue – on behalf of the victims of tax evasion, corruption, fraud and money laundering – the vast hidden wealth that has been secreted through the use of opaque offshore corporate vehicles. Such efforts are long overdue. Click to view the full article. Notes: Panama Papers Website Edward H. Davis Jr (+1 305 372 8282, Ext. 228, edavis@ sequorlaw.com) is a founding shareholder of Sequor Law. Davis was recognised as the Asset Recovery Lawyer of the Year by Who’s Who Legal in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. With nearly 30 years of experience, he focuses his practice on asset recovery, financial fraud and the pursuit of misappropriated assets throughout the world on behalf of the victims of fraud. Davis is also a leading member of the ICC Commercial Crimes Services FraudNet Network. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Sequor Law monitors COVID-19's impact across Latin America, analyzing emerging threats to cross-border insolvencies as the pandemic disrupts economies, court systems, and exit financing. COVID-19 and Cross-Border Insolvencies Open Legal Insights Open April 17, 2020 5 minutes read Sequor Law Brazil’s health minister has predicted that the spread of COVID-19 would reach its peak between April and June and has warned that Brazil’s health system could reach saturation by the end of April. As the novel coronavirus has been spreading throughout the region, Sequor Law has monitored its impact across Latin America. Brazil confirmed its first COVID-19 case, the first in Latin America, from a traveler who had visited Northern Italy before arriving in Sao Paulo, a city of approximately 20 million people with the largest urban population in the Americas. It is also the country’s financial center and a business hub representing one of Latin America’s largest economies. The news, which arrived after a long weekend of Carnival celebrations, brought with it a deep and almost immediate dive in the Ibovespa stock index similar to the losses that have been seen elsewhere around the globe. Most recently, Brazil closed its border to eight neighboring countries, banned travel from Europe and Asia, and closed schools, colleges, courts, and commercial business in its largest cities. Brazil’s top soccer teams have handed stadiums over to health authorities to turn them into field hospitals and clinics in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Brazil’s health minister has predicted that the spread of COVID-19 would reach its peak between April and June and has warned that Brazil’s health system could reach saturation by the end of April. At present, the country has over 4,600 confirmed cases, 165 deaths and reports indicate that the number of new cases is steadily growing. With various government officials testing positive for COVID-19, including 14 who accompanied its president, Jair Bolsonaro, to Florida a few weeks ago, the federal government has declared a national emergency in Brazil allowing the government to free up budget resources and announcing an economic stimulus package of approximately $40 billion euros. Notwithstanding all of these measures, Brazil’s currency recently hit an all-time low of R $5.2 per dollar before its Central Bank helped pare losses by cutting its benchmark interest rate to an all-time low of 3.75%, pledging to deploy financial stability policies to fight the crisis. Like the United States, closures of commercial establishments and travel bans have hit Brazil’s retail, entertainment and aviation sectors hard. Like Brazil, nations throughout the region are in a race to “flatten” the exponential spread of COVID-19. Recent reports have stated that every country in Latin America and the Caribbean now have confirmed cases of COVID-19. Argentina is on total lockdown. In Chile—a country that already faced a political crisis prior to the coronavirus pandemic—restricted freedom of movement has postponed its April referendum for a new Constitution. Examples of such “social distancing”-inspired policies are ubiquitous. Efforts to get ahead of the most horrific potential consequences of COVID-19, however, have begun to exact a hefty price, as large sectors of the regional economy have all but shut down. Even in these early days, we have already begun to see an impact in U.S. bankruptcies, as distressed companies in pending reorganization proceedings are losing their exit financing and private equity investors are lowering or pulling bids to acquire the assets of bankrupt companies due to market volatility caused by the pandemic. Unfortunately, with no clear medical solution on the horizon and talk of increasing infection rates impacting the region, it appears likely that the situation will get worse before it gets better. On March 27, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund, Kristalina Georgieva, said that the global economy has now entered a recession that could be as bad as or worse than the financial crisis in 2009. Although Georgieva noted that the world economy could experience a “sizeable rebound” in 2021 if nations are successful in containing the pandemic, she stressed that “a key concern about a long-lasting impact of the sudden stop of the world economy is the risk of a wave of bankruptcies and layoffs that not only can undermine the recovery but erode the fabric of our societies.” These statements capture the reality that, unlike other recent recessions, it is difficult to identify sectors of the economy that will not be impacted by the current crisis. The extent of the crisis is perhaps most poignantly captured by the report that more than 6.6 million workers filed claims for unemployment in the United States this week—a number that shattered all prior records for such filings. Although the most widely publicized effects of the worldwide shutdown have been seen in the aviation, cruise, hospitality (restaurant and hotel) and retail sectors, this crisis will undoubtedly result in a sharp increase in both domestic bankruptcy cases, and cross-border insolvency matters across all sectors where foreign companies and liquidators may seek U.S. assistance to obtain relief from creditors (such as by obtaining a stay of collection actions), to protect assets located in the United States or to obtain information or directly enforce rights against third parties in furtherance of a foreign bankruptcy proceeding. Certainly, our years of experience as bankruptcy specialists tell us that the rise of domestic bankruptcy cases for small businesses and the sectors of the economy hardest hit by the shutdowns are inescapable, as many businesses cannot withstand the strain of even a temporary closure without revenue combined with continuing obligations to pay fixed costs. It is likely that a similar dynamic will play out in national economies around the globe, including Brazil and other Latin American countries. Countries are already responding to the anticipated surge in insolvencies. In the United States, the recently enacted stimulus bill dramatically expands access to the simplified and expedited procedures that apply to small business bankruptcies, such that relief may temporarily be accessed to reorganize debts up to $7,5 million (up from $2,725,625) through Dec. 31, 2020, and extending payment plans under Chapter 13 up to seven years due to financial consequences stemming from COVID-19. Similarly, in Brazil, the Chamber of Deputies approved new preventive restructuring measures to enable companies facing financial difficulties to continue their operations including a special recovery plan for micro and small companies, allowing the extension of payment terms, reduction of interest and fines relating to tax debts, allowing more flexibility in relation to the possibility of negotiation of the parties in structuring a recovery plan and simplification of judicial procedures. In addition to the potential for increased bankruptcy filings, our experience in cross-border fraud suggests that widespread financial distress (such as that seen during the last financial crisis) and the ensuing insolvency proceedings that follow, bring increased oversight, investigations, and, potentially, the discovery of financial frauds (like Madoff or, more recently, the “Operação Lava Jato” or “Car Wash” scandal in Brazil) that may have previously been overlooked. The discovery of improper transfers and fraud, which are more likely to come to light during a downturn, and certainly in bankruptcy, may result in the filing of cross-border insolvency proceedings under Chapter 15 of the Bankruptcy Code, where administrators and trustees search for offshore assets and information that will facilitate recovery for their creditors. Even if the United States is fortunate enough to avoid the worst potential outcomes of this pandemic (most critically as it relates to the loss of human life), it appears inescapable that the ongoing shutdown of the global economy will result in increasing insolvency proceedings in all economic sectors (both in the United States and abroad). As numerous international businesses have substantial ties and interests in the United States (particularly, in South Florida), this drastic increase in foreign insolvency proceedings will inevitably translate to increasing numbers of cross-border insolvency proceedings in the United States. Leyza B. Florin and Fernando J. Menendez are shareholders at Sequor Law in Miami. The firm specializes in hidden asset recovery, notably Brazil-linked Chapter 15 cross-border cases. To view the original article, click here. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Sequor Law opens its Washington, D.C. office led by Tara Plochocki, strengthening asset recovery and cross-border dispute capabilities. Meet the Leader of Sequor Law’s New DC Office Open In the News Open June 7, 2024 2 minutes read Sequor Law Sequor Law has expanded its national footprint with the launch of its Washington, D.C. office, marking a strategic move that strengthens the firm’s position in complex Asset Recovery and cross-border disputes. The new office is led by Tara Plochocki , a seasoned practitioner in international financial litigation who joins the firm to further develop its presence in high-stakes, global matters. The expansion reflects a deliberate evolution. For more than two decades, Sequor Law has built a reputation as a premier boutique focused on International Litigation , financial fraud, and global enforcement strategy. Establishing a D.C. presence signals to the market that the firm operates on a fully national platform, positioned at the center of regulatory, diplomatic, and investor-state dispute activity. Plochocki brings significant experience in cross-border financial disputes, commercial litigation, and sovereign-related matters. Her longstanding involvement with ICC FraudNet, a global network of asset recovery practitioners, aligns directly with Sequor’s international reach. She has worked extensively on matters involving misappropriated funds, transnational enforcement, and complex recovery efforts across jurisdictions. Washington, D.C. offers strategic advantages. The district is a hub for investor-state disputes and international arbitration, areas that intersect naturally with International Arbitration and sovereign asset tracing. Sequor’s growth in this arena reflects increasing demand for coordinated litigation strategies that combine U.S. court proceedings with parallel actions abroad. The firm’s focus remains disciplined. Asset Recovery , financial fraud litigation, Creditors’ Rights , and cross-border commercial disputes continue to define its core practice. At the same time, Sequor is deepening its work in anti-corruption matters and recovery actions involving sovereign assets. These cases often require navigating U.S. enforcement actions while ensuring restitution reaches victims rather than being absorbed into general government recovery pools. Plochocki’s leadership in D.C. reinforces Sequor’s collaborative model. The firm emphasizes integrated teamwork across offices, ensuring consistency in strategy whether a matter is filed in Miami, Washington, or overseas. For clients facing fraud, cross-border disputes, or enforcement challenges tied to sovereign actors, the D.C. launch expands Sequor’s ability to act quickly and strategically at the national level. Read the full Law360 Pulse interview to learn more about the firm’s expansion and the strategic direction of the new Washington office here . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Sequor Law's Summer Series Podcasts feature distinguished attorneys and experts discussing cross-border insolvency, cryptocurrency recovery, financial fraud, and asset tracing topics. Sequor Law’s Summer Series Podcasts Open Events & Speaking Open August 17, 2021 2 minutes read Sequor Law In this series, our distinguished Sequor Law attorneys sit down with other subject-matter experts to discuss cutting-edge legal issues, from the recovery of cryptocurrency to the psychology behind financial fraud to uncovering nominees and other aiders and abettors. See below our upcoming podcasts for the month of August. Hot Topics in Cross Border Insolvency with Sequor Counsel Nyana Abreu Miller August 19, 2021 12PM EST Expert Guest Speakers: Sarah Murray, Head of Dispute Resolution, Stevens & Bolton (UK) Felipe Vieira, Attorney, Duarte Forssell Advogados (Brazil) In this podcast episode, three lawyers specializing in cross-border insolvency and litigation discuss recent developments in the United States, Great Britain, and Brazil. A Brazilian lawyer will discuss Brazil’s recent implementation of the UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency. An English solicitor will look at remedies available in the English courts to support efforts to recover assets, in accordance with the principles in the Model Law and more generally through Mareva/freezing injunctions and Norwich Pharmacal Orders. A U.S. lawyer will address the treatment of corporate groups in cross-border cases and recent decisions of interest arising under the Model Law. Click here to register The Effect of the General Data Protection Regulation on Discovery with Sequor Attorney Amanda Finley August 25, 2021 4PM EST This podcast episode will discuss the case law regarding the GDPR as interpreted under U.S. law. It will address the various approaches that U.S. courts have taken in response to objections to discovery based on the GDPR. Finally, it will address practical actions that both plaintiff and defense counsel may take in order to resolve these disputes effectively. Click here to register The Tangled Web They Weave: Detangling the Web of Nominees, Aiders and Abettors with Sequor Attorney Carolina Goncalves and Director of Investigations Barbara Miranda August 31, 2021 2PM EST Expert Guest Speaker: Julieta LaMalfa, Director of Disputes, Compliance & Investigations, Stout (US) The use of nominees, aiders and abettors to transfer and hide assets is common throughout all jurisdictions. Moreover, each jurisdiction has different levels of public records and information available to identify the ultimate beneficial owners of assets as well as laws related to piercing through these facades to ultimately access the assets of the debtor. With this in mind, this podcast is meant to give an introduction into the types of nominees, aiders and abettors, how to identify them, the availability of records reflecting ultimate beneficial ownership in various jurisdictions, and potential legal tools to use once you have sufficient evidence to show a judge that these individuals and/or entities are in fact nominees, aiders and/or abettors of the debtor. Click here to register Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Meet Sequor Law Attorney Daniel J. Halperin, a bankruptcy and insolvency specialist with an MBA, who shares his passion for insolvency law and his path from law school to asset recovery practice. Attorney Spotlight: Daniel J. Halperin Open Attorney Spotlight Open November 13, 2023 2 minutes read Sequor Law What inspired you to pursue a law career? My inspiration to pursue a legal career stemmed from a speech and debate class I took in high school. I really enjoyed the class and did very well. After that, I spoke with several lawyers about the profession and interned at a law firm during college. By the end of my sophomore year, I decided to attend law school. Why did you choose the areas of law that you practice? My passion for insolvency work stems from a bankruptcy course taught by Patricia Redmond at the University of Miami School of Law. After that class, I knew that bankruptcy was for me and really focused on that area of the law for the remainder of law school (or at least as much I could). I authored several articles focused on insolvency issues and competed in a bankruptcy moot court competition. I also interned at a private equity firm to work with its portfolio of distressed mezzanine loans and worked on bankruptcy matters as a summer associate. You received an MBA concentrated in Mergers and Acquisitions as well as International Business; what skills do you draw upon from that experience when representing your clients? Financial literacy. Insolvency work intersects with different aspects of finance and accounting on a daily basis. This intersection requires lawyers to have a comprehensive understanding of accounting, valuation, and financial concepts to perform their own analysis and effectively communicate with other professionals in the case. The MBA complimented my undergraduate studies in finance and provided a solid foundation in these areas. What is the most rewarding part about your job? Helping clients achieve their goals. Nothing beats it. Tell us about a mentor who made an impact on your career. Patricia Redmond. She teaches bankruptcy at the University of Miami School of Law and coaches the bankruptcy moot court team. She sparked my interest in insolvency work, and I credit her with helping me develop the tools needed to be an effective advocate for clients. If you weren’t practicing law, what would you be doing? I would likely work in a finance-related role. My undergraduate studies focused on corporate finance, and I have always enjoyed the financial aspects of insolvency work. What might people be surprised to learn about you? I had a (very) short-lived college football career. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

A look at 8 Florida cases to watch in 2019, covering remote employee jurisdiction, Ponzi scheme clawbacks, the Parkland shooting lawsuit, and EB-5 investment fraud, among other key legal battles. 8 Florida Cases to Watch in 2019 Open In the News Open January 9, 2019 4 minutes read Sequor Law At the top of 2019, which Florida cases have lawyers checking dockets with bated breath? Here’s a look at eight cases that have gripped local litigators. Where… By Raychel Lean At the top of 2019, which Florida cases have lawyers checking dockets with bated breath? Here’s a look at eight cases that have gripped local litigators. Where can a Florida-based company sue its out-of-state employees? Miami business litigator Eric Ostroff, partner at Meland Russin & Budwick, has his eye on Citrix Systems Inc. v. Matthew Ware et al . Chief Broward Circuit Judge Jack Tuter will soon hold a hearing on the case, which tackles the question of personal jurisdiction when it comes to remote employees. In 2017, Fort Lauderdale-based tech company Citrix Systems Inc. sued seven former employees who worked from North Carolina when they left to work for a competitor. The suit accused the staff of misappropriating trade secrets and breaching a contract that included a covenant not to compete. But the employees argue Florida doesn’t have jurisdiction over them. Do foreign governments take precedence over state courts? Former Florida Supreme Court Justice Raoul Cantero is among a group of Miami lawyers challenging a Third DCA ruling they say could result in Florida courts having to submit to totalitarian regimes. The Ecuadorean government sued two brothers in Miami for allegedly embezzling about $662 million from Filanbanco, the bank where they were administrators. The suit — Republic of Ecuador v. Roberto Isaias Dassum and William Isaias Dassum — was initially dismissed for lack of standing and expired statute of limitations, but the appeals court reversed the move. International litigator Arnoldo B. Lacayo of Sequor Law, Miami, said the case is a crucial one for international practitioners, as it asks whether acts in another sovereign state are valid in Florida’s courts. Could this case reveal Bitcoin creator’s identity? Dave Kleiman v. Craig Wright , an $11.4 million bitcoin trial will play out in Miami federal court in September, is almost certain to raise eyebrows. Kleiman’s suit accuses his Australian former business partner of committing forgery and filing false documents to take control of bitcoin. Wright has claimed to be Satoshi Nakamoto, mysterious creator of the cryptocurrency, but that claim has never been verified. Complex litigator Daniel Maland at Kozyak, Tropin and Throckmorton is watching closely and says bitcoin transaction logs indicate that Nakamoto is one of the richest people in the world. According to Alan Rosenberg with Markowitz Ringel Trusty + Hartog, the vast size and scope of the case could serve as a roadmap for future cryptocurrency litigation. Will a key ADA ruling be overturned? Juan Carlos Gil v. Winn Dixie , an Americans with Disabilities Act lawsuit pending in the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, could unravel or affirm a landmark 2017 ruling that found a supermarket’s website violated blind internet users’ rights and laid the groundwork for an influx of website- accessibility lawsuits. The court will consider Winn-Dixie’s appeal that websites are not places of public accommodation and that the supermarket is in compliance with the ADA. Commercial litigators Michael Landen of Kluger Kaplan and Jason Kellogg, partner at Levine Kellogg Lehman Schneider & Grossman, said many of their clients in the business world are waiting in suspense. Can school shooting victims sue rifle makers? The family of a victim of the Parkland shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentine’s Day in 2017 has sued Smith and Wesson, makers of the AR-15 semi-automatic rifle used in the attack. Miami firm Podhurst Orseck represents the plaintiff. The court heard the defense’s motion to dismiss Jamie Guttenberg et al v. Smith and Wesson in December, and is expected to rule in a few weeks. Has a Miami church breached its lease? The Miami-Dade Property Appraiser has claimed Brickell’s First Presbyterian Church of Miami is violating its religious exemption status by leasing some of its grounds to a for-profit school and food trucks. The case could have wide implications for developers and religious institutions, according to Franklin Zemel, a partner at Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr, who represents dozens of churches, synagogues and mosques around the country. The Church claims it’s not leasing but merely “outsourcing” the administration of its school. “Why is the characterization so important? Because in order to qualify for the tax exemption, there must be unity between the owner of the property and the user of the property,” Zemel said. Will Florida courts embrace cannabis? According to Kathi Giddings, deputy chair of Akerman’s Litigation Practice Group, cannabis is set to be a hot topic this year. Several appeals are pending in the First District Court of Appeal concerning the 2016 general election, in which Floridians voted to broaden the use of medical marijuana. The legislature has restricted who can cultivate, process, sell and smoke medical marijuana, but the lawsuits argue otherwise. Akerman represents medical marijuana center Florigrown in one of those cases, and recently obtained an injunction against the Department of Health. Will Florida courts side with EB-5 Investors alleging fraud? A group of 78 Chinese investors sued Nicholas Mastroianni II , a high-profile EB-5 investment broker with ties to former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen. In a Palm Beach Court filing, the plaintiffs claimed Mastroianni cheated them out of almost $100 million in a real estate venture, but Mastroianni has rejected the suit as a “sham.” Jeffrey Schneider, managing partner at Levine Kellogg Lehman Schneider + Grossman, who filed the suit, said the case could send a strong message to the EB-5 industry about promises made to investors. “This case is important at a time when developers have completed their projects and are now expected to return the EB-5 money back that they ‘borrowed’ from the EB-5 investors,” Schneider said. It’s hard to say which way the courts will rule, so observers must stay tuned for updates on these cases throughout the year. To view full article, click here . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Judge David Jones takes under advisement motions to convert MatlinPatterson Chapter 11 cases to Chapter 7, examining whether the debtors' wind-down constitutes a species of rehabilitation. Court Takes Under Advisement Motions to Convert MatlinPatterson Cases to Chapter 7, Says Decision Turns on Whether Wind-Down of Debtors’ Businesses Counts as ‘Species of Rehabilitation’ Open In the News Open April 8, 2022 3 minutes read Sequor Law At a hearing today in the MatlinPatterson Global Opportunities Fund debtors’ chapter 11 cases, Judge David Jones took under advisement the chapter 7 conversion motions filed by the foreign representative in the chapter 15 case of Varig Logistica SA, or VarigLog, and litigation plaintiff Gol Linhas Aéreas SA, referred to by its predecessor name, VRG. Judge Jones informed the parties that he would issue a decision on the conversion motions in the near term. HJDK Aerospacial S/A, which has asserted a $17.5 million claim against the debtors for failure of a portfolio company to repay certain loans in Brazilian civil courts, had also filed a statement in support of the conversion motion. Debtors’ counsel disputed the amount of HJDK’s claim at today’s hearing, saying that HJDK has only a $4.5 million claim. Judge Jones opened the hearing by informing the parties that his primary focus in considering the motions was whether the debtors had a “reasonable likelihood of rehabilitation” under the relevant provision of the Bankruptcy Code. Given the nature of the debtors’ business as investment vehicles for private equity investors, Judge Jones questioned whether using chapter 11 to wind down the investment vehicles by “clearing” the foreign litigation claims order to make payouts to investors and otherwise implement their business model was a “species of rehabilitation.” Judge Jones also said he would take into consideration whether staying in chapter 11 would result in a “substantial or continuing loss to or diminution” of the debtors’ estates. Judge Jones commented that it was “hard to see” how the administrative burn rate in the cases did not constitute some form of diminution, given the absence of revenues coming into the estates. Gregory Grossman of Sequor Law, counsel for the VarigLog foreign representative, said that the chapter 11 cases amounted to a “preplanned dissolution” of the debtors, and although that might be part of the debtors’ business model, this could not constitute a “rehabilitation” under the Bankruptcy Code. Grossman argued that treating such a preplanned dissolution as a rehabilitation under the Code would lead to “mischief” because companies could, prior to filing for chapter 11, modify their corporate governance documents to require dissolution by a date certain in order to pre-emptively defeat chapter 7 conversion motions. Tyler Robinson of Simpson Thacher, counsel for the debtors, argued that the rehabilitative purpose of filing the chapter 11 cases is to carry out the “intended purpose” of the debtors’ businesses, which “first and foremost” is to return capital to their investors. Robinson explained that the foreign litigation claimants had frustrated those efforts, ultimately causing the debtors to file the chapter 11 cases. Robinson said that in order to maximize the value of the estates, the debtors needed a “centralized process” for determining which parties held valid claims in order to ratably distribute estate assets. Robinson warned that it would be a “dangerous proposition” for the court to find that private equity funds and hedge funds should not be able to use chapter 11 to wind down their affairs. Robinson also argued that U.S. Supreme Court precedent supports the proposition that liquidation is an appropriate use of the chapter 11 process and that other courts have found a confirmable liquidating plan to be sufficiently rehabilitative to defeat a motion to convert. Arthur Steinberg of King & Spalding, counsel for VRG, argued that the debtors’ prepetition conduct justified conversion. Steinberg alleged that the debtors had covertly collateralized all their assets in favor of a nondebtor insider and transferred assets out of the estates prior to filing. Steinberg added that the debtors had no assets to liquidate, no revenue, no employees and “no public interest to protect.” According to Steinberg, the estates needed an estate fiduciary who is not “fronting for equity in the case” and that installing a chapter 7 trustee would cure the issue of “faithless fiduciaries” and satisfy the need for an independent investigator. Ralph E. Preite of Koutsoudakis & Iakovou, counsel to HJDK, told the court that after a decision by a Brazilian appellate court entered on Nov. 19, 2021, the appeals process had been exhausted and that the claim was therefore “final.” Elizabeth Curran of Schulte Roth & Zabel, conflicts counsel for the debtors, disagreed with Preite’s view that the litigation was over. According to Curran, the November 2021 decision related to a jurisdictional argument, and an appeal of the “full merits” of the matter is still pending. Curran added that there were still at least two additional levels of appeals available to the debtors in the Brazilian courts. To read the original article click here . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Edward H. Davis Jr. discusses cross-border financial fraud, asset tracing, and modern asset recovery challenges in his WWL Thought Leaders Global Elite Q&A. WWL Thought Leaders Global Elite - Edward H. Davis Jr. Q&A Open Awards & Recognition Open August 25, 2022 2 minutes read Sequor Law In the complex world of cross-border financial fraud and asset tracing , experience and strategic insight are essential. In his ThoughtLeaders interview (featured in the Sequor Law article PDF), Founding Shareholder Edward H. Davis Jr. shares his perspective on what drives modern asset recovery practice and the evolving challenges practitioners face as fraudsters exploit increasingly sophisticated structures and technologies. Davis’s reflections are grounded in more than three decades of international litigation and investigative work representing victims of fraud , corruption , Ponzi schemes and other misappropriations of funds around the globe . The article weaves together Ed’s professional journey with grounded commentary on the issues shaping asset recovery today. He explains why he chose this practice area — to make a measurable difference in people’s lives by unravelling the complex legal and factual webs fraudsters set up to conceal assets. He also describes the kinds of cases that regularly come across his desk, noting that while traditional investment and corporate fraud remain core concerns, crypto-asset and internet-based frauds are increasingly front and center. A recurring theme of the piece is the interplay between legal systems and global reality. Davis identifies jurisdictional hurdles — including the reluctance of some legal systems to treat information as an asset recoverable in a tracing exercise — as among the greatest obstacles in international practice. This observation underscores the fact that asset recovery is as much about navigating foreign legal cultures and procedural norms as it is about understanding the underlying wrongdoing. The interview also touches on how technological tools are reshaping the practice. Davis points out that while emerging technologies are not yet “game changers,” they are helping practitioners uncover bank relationships and other data that were previously more difficult to access — leveling the playing field in key respects. Finally, Davis offers practical career insights for young lawyers interested in the field, emphasizing that direct experience and mentorship are irreplaceable for mastering the judgment and tactical skills required in high-stakes, highly international disputes . For a frontline look at the mindset and practical considerations of one of the field’s most experienced asset recovery lawyers , we encourage you to read the full interview in the PDF below. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

How the unlimited homestead exemption in Florida and Texas lets wealthy debtors protect mansions from creditors, creating a $70B legal loophole in South Florida real estate. The $70B loophole, or: How to turn your mansion into an offshore account Open In the News Open October 23, 2018 9 minutes read Sequor Law Wealthy in a financial bind increasingly turn to the homestead exemption By Konrad Putzier In the fall of 2016, Roger Ailes was by all accounts a very wealthy man. Fox News had just pushed him out from the company he built over allegations of sexual harassment, but paid him $40 million for his troubles. So he did what many other rich retirees before him have done: he bought a house in Florida. Through a trust, Ailes paid $36 million in cash for a six-bedroom, 12,747- square-foot mansion in Palm Beach. In November that year, the longtime Putnam County, NY resident filed a declaration of domicile in Florida, public records show, making the new property at 6 Ocean Lane his primary home. The declaration had its perks. Ailes was a defendant in a potentially expensive sexual-harassment lawsuit by former Fox News host Andrea Tantaros and was about to become a defendant in another, by former contributor Julie Roginsky. A judgment against him could put his assets on the line. But making the Palm Beach mansion his primary residence could insulate the house and up to half an acre of land around it from any legal claims, thanks to a handy Florida law known as the “homestead exemption.” Ailes died in May 2017 at age 77. Fox News, also a defendant in the suits, settled Roginsky’s lawsuit in December of that year and Tantaros’ lawsuit was dismissed in May 2018. Ailes’ widow, Elizabeth Ailes, declared the Palm Beach property her homestead for tax purposes in 2017 and 2018, property records show. A spokesperson for Elizabeth did not respond to requests for comment. Curious if someone of means is in a financial pickle? Check if they recently bought a mansion in Florida or Texas. Paying millions for a palatial home in the Sunshine State is usually an indicator of unfettered wealth. But it could also be a warning sign that the buyer may be trying to protect money from creditors or legal claims. Florida and Texas are among the few states with a so-called unlimited homestead exemption, a law enshrined in the state constitution stipulating that your home is off limits to creditors, no matter how much it is worth or how much you owe. For people staring down big debts or potentially costly lawsuits, this creates a powerful incentive to buy the priciest property they can find in a homestead state. Rising home prices mean more wealth is now beyond the reach of creditors. In three South Florida counties — Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach — alone, the combined appraised value of all luxury homes appraised at $1 million or more whose owners claim the homestead exemption in tax filings is $69.9 billion (see chart), according to The Real Deal’s analysis of the Florida Department of Revenue’s 2018 tax roll. The true market values of these properties could be much higher.* “If you go to a lawyer and ask ‘how do I protect my assets?,’ the first thing they say is: ‘Buy a valuable homestead,’” said Jeffrey Davis, a law professor at the University of Florida. “Some people just sort of call it estate planning.” Funny laws Residents of most U.S. states get a homestead exemption protecting some of their home equity from creditors. In California, for example, most people have a cap of $75,000, while in Virginia, the cap is $5,000. Florida, Texas, Kansas, Iowa, Oklahoma and South Dakota, however, have no limit. In these states, buying an expensive property and claiming the homestead exemption has some of the perks of stashing your money in an offshore account — protection from creditors and lawsuits — without having to transfer money overseas. “If you’re faced with losing what you have, the psychological toll it takes on you is the same whether you’re really rich or an average Joe,” said Wayne Patton, a Miami-based asset-protection attorney. “So the idea of moving somewhere where you can protect the bulk of what you have is very appealing.” The list of the rich and famous who have taken advantage of the exemption is long, and it includes NFL legend O.J. Simpson, movie star Burt Reynolds and one of the original Miami Worldcenter developers, Marc Roberts. Simpson had spent much of his life in California, but bought a home in Miami for $575,000 in 2000 and moved there after he lost a $33.5 million civil suit brought by the relatives of his murdered ex-wife. “They got funny laws in this state,” Simpson told the New Yorker in 2001, explaining why he likes living in Florida. The unlimited exemption has been around for more than a century, but its popularity is on the rise. Several offshore financial centers have increased transparency and made life harder for those looking to hide money abroad. Meanwhile, Florida’s rising property market over the past decade has made buying homes there more attractive. In both Florida and Texas, debtors need to actually move into the property and show that they want to make it their permanent residence – by changing their voter registration, for example – to get the exemption. But they do not need to have lived in it for long. There are exceptions: those who buy a home with proceeds from criminal activity aren’t protected, and homeowners who fail to pay taxes or don’t make mortgage payments on their homestead can still see it seized. Evading creditors isn’t the main reason people claim the homestead exemption, asset-recovery lawyers say. Making a property your homestead carries significant tax benefits. But even if people buy a property purely and explicitly to bilk their lenders, that’s totally legal – at least in Florida. In 2001 , the state’s Supreme Court ruled that the exemption protects a property owner even if she bought the home with “the specific intent of hindering, delaying, or defrauding creditors.” The ruling has turned into a nightmare for lenders and asset-recovery lawyers nationwide. Because many debtors across the U.S. can, in theory, move to Florida at a moment’s notice and buy a house, they know that a part of their fortune equivalent to the value of a hypothetical Florida mansion can’t ever be seized by creditors. Of all of Florida’s eccentric laws, the homestead exemption is the one it sort of managed to force on the rest of the country as well. “We’ll have a lawsuit against somebody where they will say ‘you can sue me, and might even win, but by the time you win I’m going to sell my house up here and all my other assets and I’m going to buy a house in Florida’,” said Schuyler Carroll, a New York-based asset-recovery attorney at Perkins Coie, adding that he’s been involved in dozens of cases where the exemption came up. “So we settle.” Paupers with palaces Tom Hicks made a fortune as a private-equity investor and a name for himself as the owner of the Texas Rangers baseball team and English soccer club Liverpool F.C. But the Dallas resident found himself in deep trouble after the financial crisis. In 2010, the Rangers filed for bankruptcy, and Hicks sold the team to pay off his creditors. In 2011 , a group of former Rangers investors sued Hicks , claiming he had used the team to improperly enrich himself. JPMorgan Chase reportedly sought $35.4 million from him. As Hicks fought for what was left of his wealth – he had also been forced to sell Liverpool F.C. – he could be fairly certain of one thing: no one could take away his palatial Dallas estate. Hicks had bought the nearly 30,000-square-foot home at 10000 Holloway Drive in 1999 — the year his Dallas Stars hockey team won the Stanley Cup. Built by architect Maurice Fatio for Italian aristocrat Pio Crespi in the 1930s, the 25-acre property includes a library decked in walnut wood, crystal chandeliers, two guest houses, a pool and a lake. In 2013, Dallas County appraisers valued the property at $40 million. Property records show that Hicks claimed the homestead exemption on the property. “He was pleading poverty, but everyone knew he had this absolutely phenomenal house,” recalled a source familiar with the Rangers bankruptcy. An attorney for Hicks declined to comment for this article. Hicks can thank an earlier banking crisis for the law that shielded his mansion. In 1837, a year after Texas declared its independence from Mexico, a financial panic hit the U.S., leading to a wave of loan defaults and bank failures. The crisis would have a lasting impact on the state’s laws, according to Michael Ariens, a legal historian at St. Mary’s University. “When Texas became a state in 1845, the idea that creditors could take the essentials of a farmer’s or workman’s way to earn a living was anathema,” Ariens said. “And there are always more debtors than creditors as voters.” The homestead exemption eventually became a “sacrosanct” part of the constitution, according to Joe Wielebinski, a Texas-based asset-recovery attorney at Winstead PC. “Texas is a state with a history of people from other areas coming to this free, open and large state for a lot of reasons,” he said. “Whether it’s embarrassing or not, one of the reasons they came here was to avoid creditors in other states.” In Texas, the debtor protection covers up to 10 acres in cities and up to 100 acres for an individual (200 for a family) in the countryside from creditors. In Florida, which included the exemption in its constitution in 1868, it covers just half an acre in a municipality and 160 acres outside a municipality. But as property prices in Miami and Palm Beach rose in the 1990s and early 2000s, debtors realized that they could squeeze a lot of money into half an acre. So sue me In late 1989, former Major League Baseball commissioner Bowie Kuhn’s Manhattan law firm went bankrupt. Weeks later, Kuhn bought a $1 million, five-bedroom home in Ponte Vedra Beach and claimed the homestead exemption. “There is nothing inappropriate about my actions,” he told the New York Times in 1993: “People do this all the time.” In 1996, Burt Reynolds filed for bankruptcy but kept his $2.5 million property near Palm Beach. Paul Bilzerian, a former corporate raider who went bankrupt in Florida for the second time in 2001 with $140 million in debt, got to keep his $5 million, 11-bedroom home in Tampa Bay, which included an indoor basketball court and a cinema. Martin Kenney, a British Virgin Islands-based asset-recovery lawyer, recalls representing a hedge fund in the early 2000s. The fund had lent $20 million to a Florida doctor, who defaulted on the loan and pleaded poverty even though he owned a $7 million home near Sarasota, according to Kenney. “We didn’t litigate over the house because we thought, ‘why do that if you’re just going to waste your time and lose?’” he said. “Like all policy choices, you end up with people that are unethical, abusing the privilege, doing things that probably the folks who created that homestead law never envisioned would happen.” As abuse spread, the banking industry lobbied to change bankruptcy laws, facing fierce resistance from the real-estate industry and property owners in homestead states. In 1998, George W. Bush, then governor of Texas, wrote a letter to the House Judiciary Committee arguing that a “homestead cap is a clear violation of states’ rights with regard to state private property.” Current Attorney General Jeff Sessions, then a senator representing Alabama, found himself on the other side, telling the Times in 2001 that the unlimited exemption “isn’t just.” The bankers prevailed and in 2005, Congress passed the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act. It stipulated, among other changes, that those who file for bankruptcy can no longer claim the unlimited exemption unless they have lived in the property for at least 40 months. “If a bankruptcy filing occurs today, it’s not clear that a homestead is bulletproof from all creditors’ claims,” said Wielebinski, the asset-recovery attorney. “Thirty years ago, if you put money into your homestead you were virtually immune from the claims of all creditors except for the mortgage lender and taxes. So it’s a dramatic change.” The housing crisis further eroded the appeal of the exemption. Property prices plummeted, and there’s no point in claiming the exemption on a home that’s underwater anyway. “Since 2008 we saw less people claiming it because there was no equity in the house,” said Michael Bakst, a Palm Beach-based attorney at Greenspoon Marder who specializes in bankruptcy and insolvency cases. But as the Florida real estate market recovered from the crisis and the state attracted more of the world’s wealthy, so did the homestead exemption. Marc Roberts, a former boxing promoter and one of the original developers behind the Miami Worldcenter project, claimed the homestead exemption on his $1.5 million home in Jupiter, Florida, when he filed for bankruptcy in March 2010, court records show. Roberts could not be reached for comment. Keurig Green Mountain founder Robert Stiller reportedly paid $55 million for a mansion in Palm Beach through an LLC in January 2014 while he was still a defendant in three shareholder lawsuits against Green Mountain. He already owned a home in the same town but soon declared the new property his homestead, public records show. Although there is no indication Stiller bought the property because of the exemption, his role as a defendant meant he could potentially benefit from the law. An attorney representing Stiller did not comment. The exemption continues to be highly effective. Gregory Grossman , a Miami-based asset-recovery attorney at Sequor Law, said he was unable to contest the exemption on behalf of creditors in more than 95 percent of the cases he was involved in. And even the fact that your money is tied up in your home isn’t too much of a problem for those with patience. Take Tom Hicks. While the lawsuits against him dragged on, he continued to claim the Dallas estate as his primary residence. Then, in late 2012, Hicks settled a legal dispute with the Rangers, and on January 11, 2013, a lawsuit brought by his lenders was dismissed. Two weeks later, news broke that Hicks had put the home on the market for $135 million — at the time reportedly the most expensive residential listing in the country. He later cut the asking price to $100 million and sold it in January 2016 for a reported $58 million. To view full article, click here. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Sequor Law's Edward H. Davis Jr. wins a $22 million civil theft judgment for Venezuelan finance company All Factoring after Miami businessman Luis Wolkowiez wrongfully misappropriated $8.6 million. Miami Lawyer Wins $22M Judgment for Venezuelan Company Over Civil Theft Open In the News Open January 23, 2019 3 minutes read Sequor Law Edward H. Davis Jr. of Sequor Law argued that Miami businessman Luis Wolkowiez stole $8.6 million from Venezuelan finance company All Factoring, and the court agreed. By Raychel Lean Edward H. Davis Jr. of Sequor Law in Miami landed a $22 million judgment for a South American finance company after the court found that Venezuelan businessman Luis Wolkowiez had wrongly taken money from it — allegedly to settle a debt a Miami resident owed him. But Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Pedro P. Echarte didn’t buy that explanation, branding Wolkowiez’s actions civil theft. The international fraud case arrived in Miami-Dade Circuit Court in April 2013, with All Factoring de Venezuela, a finance company that helps businesses with cash flow problems, reporting a monetary predicament of its own. The company lawyered up after losing 130 million Venezuelan bolivars to Wolkowiez and his company, Inversiones 01590 C.A. in December 2012. According to Davis, that loss equaled about $8.6 million at the time, but as of Jan. 7, it was worth only $2.30 because of skyrocketing inflation in Venezuela. The case involved a short-term loan agreement between All Factoring and Miami resident Jorge Reyes, a broker for Atmosphere Fund. All Factoring sells invoices from manufacturing companies and other businesses to outside parties, helping clients get quick cash to pay bills and profiting from the difference. Under its deal with Reyes, All Factoring sent more than 234 million bolivars to a bank account for which Wolkowiez was custodian. The money was supposed to have remained in that account for less than 30 days, before it was returned in the currency of All Factoring’s choosing — dollars — to the tune of $15.5 million. Both parties canceled the contract, realizing that it would take longer than 30 days to repay, and agreed to a refund. ‘That’s Insane’ Wolkowiez, as custodian, gave back about $6.9 million but kept the remaining $8.6 million because Reyes, a broker, allegedly owed him money from another deal. It was an argument that Davis found hard to grasp. “Just because some other guy owes you money, you can’t take some total stranger’s money and pay yourself back,” Davis said. “That’s insane.” Davis wasn’t alone in his confusion, as the court found that Wolkowiez’s testimony was “not at all credible,” meaning Reyes may never have even owed him any money. Reyes was not to blame, according to the judgment, having only repeated what Wolkowiez had told him — not knowing it was a false promise. Reyes, who appeared pro se, and Wolkowiez’s lawyer, Coral Gables attorney Robert M. Miller , did not respond to requests for comment before deadline. The loss hit All Factoring hard, according to the judgment — causing it to lose credibility, lay off employees and fail to pay certain clients, one of whom committed suicide after losing money. The original complaint alleged unjust enrichment, conversion, civil theft and fraudulent misrepresentation, and made claims against several more defendants that were eventually dismissed or sent into bankruptcy court. The case landed in Miami because it involved several Miami residents, including Reyes and Wolkowiez, who handled all the negotiations from Miami. There was one defendant who got away, according to Davis — Colombian broker Ricardo Ripepi. “We sued him but we couldn’t find him,” Davis said. Tracking down defendants was the toughest part of the litigation for Davis, who said it took two years of trying before serving one defendant at an airport in Spain. Gathering evidence from Latin American countries also meant extra time and money spent translating videos, phone calls and documents. Davis has asked for more than $1.4 million in attorney fees and costs, and the defense has until Friday to oppose before the court will rule. To view full article, click here . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Sequor Law Shareholder Arnoldo "Arnie" Lacayo discusses insolvency law as a powerful asset recovery tool and recent developments in cross-border insolvency in this Thought Leaders interview. Arnoldo Lacayo Thought Leaders Interview Open Awards & Recognition Open January 5, 2022 1 minute read Sequor Law Sequor Law Shareholder Arnoldo “Arnie” Lacayo discusses why insolvency law is described as a powerful asset recovery tool, as well as other recent developments in this area. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.

Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with David Short, bolstering the firm's cross-border litigation, asset recovery, and financial fraud practice. Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Open Firm News Open January 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Washington, D.C. – Wednesday, May 21, 2025 – Sequor Law is pleased to announce the expansion of its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short . This strategic hire reflects the firm’s ongoing growth and commitment to serving clients in complex cross-border litigation, asset recovery, and financial fraud matters across key jurisdictions. David brings deep experience in complex commercial litigation, appellate advocacy, and government-related disputes. He has represented institutional clients in high stakes matters involving financial fraud, contract disputes, and internal investigations. His background includes extensive work across federal trial and appellate courts. “David’s sharp legal acumen and breadth of experience in both litigation and investigations make him a valuable addition as we continue building our presence in Washington,” said Tara Plochocki, Partner and Head of Sequor Law’s D.C. office. “His arrival strengthens our ability to serve clients engaged in sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional disputes.” David has advised clients in matters involving sensitive information—enhancing the firm’s ability to manage complex and confidential matters. He also brings insight from clerkship and fellowship roles within the U.S. federal court system, contributing to his nuanced understanding of federal procedure and strategy. He earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he served as Article Development Editor of the Virginia Environmental Law Journal and competed in the Lile Moot Court. David received his B.S. from the College of William and Mary, where he was a James Monroe Scholar. He is admitted to practice in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and New York. Sequor Law’s D.C. office continues to grow in response to increasing demand for international enforcement and asset recovery expertise. The firm’s expansion aligns with its long-term strategy to serve clients across borders through highly focused and experienced legal teams. “We’re proud to be expanding in Washington with top-tier talent like David,” said Gregory S. Grossman, Founding Shareholder of Sequor Law. “His addition supports our mission to provide seamless legal solutions in complex, multi-jurisdictional matters and enhances the strength of our national litigation platform.” For more information, visit: www.sequorlaw.com *** Headquartered in Miami and with an office in Washington, D.C., Sequor Law is an international law firm focusing on representing victims of financial fraud, including sovereign governments and state-owned enterprises, public and non-public companies, insolvency practitioners, and all manner of clients in the areas of asset recovery, financial fraud, cross-border insolvency, and international litigation and arbitration. www.sequorlaw.com . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Jan 29, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Alain M. Acanda 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was inspired to pursue a career in the law after having negative experiences with the law as. Firm News Jan 13, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Washington, D.C. Office with Addition of David Short Sequor Law expands its Washington, D.C. office with the addition of David Short, strengthening its cross-border litigation, asset recovery. Firm News Jan 12, 2026 2 minutes read Sequor Law Expands Asset Recovery Practice With the Addition of Attorneys Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Michael Hanlon and Noah Rosenblum have joined the firm as attorneys further strengthening the firm’s. Attorney Spotlight Oct 9, 2025 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know David Short 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I don’t think that it was a matter of inspiration, but of choice – I wanted a career that.