ALAN E. KRAUS ’75
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague, partner Alan Kraus. Since joining Latham in 2001, Alan applied his extraordinary talent and exemplary leadership in countless ways: as a formidable advocate for clients, an inspiring mentor to many, and a strong practice builder. A member of the New York and New Jersey offices, Alan was a consummate professional and a man of principle who embodied the values that the firm holds dear.
Widely known for his poise and eloquence as a trial lawyer, Alan maintained a robust practice in complex litigation that focused on product liability, toxic tort, environmental and commercial litigation. He also had significant experience in securities fraud, patent litigation, professional malpractice and employment matters. Alan tried more than 50 cases and argued numerous appeals in the federal Courts of Appeals, the New Jersey Appellate Division and Supreme Court and the New York Appellate Division and Court of Appeals.
“In my 12 years of working with Alan, he faced every challenge with unstoppable resolve — both in the courtroom, and in life,” says retired partner Dave McLean. “Alan was a phenomenal litigator with an unmatched passion for trial work who made an indelible mark on our team. The respect and affection in which Alan is held by so many reflect his tremendous integrity, his trusted leadership, and his strength of character.”
Partner Allen Gardner adds: “Alan’s strategic mindset and personal warmth really made him stand out as a lawyer. Always up for a challenge, he was a big-picture thinker who presented beautifully in the courtroom. And behind the scenes, Alan created a collegial work environment that benefitted everyone who was fortunate to work with him.”
“A Top-Notch Trial Lawyer”
Alan received his JD from the University of North Carolina School of Law. Alan earned a reputation as a skillful trial lawyer, defending clients in prominent product liability cases such as his defense of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company in a multi-billion dollar RICO action brought against the tobacco industry by the Johns-Manville Personal Injury Settlement Trust that went to trial in the Eastern District of New York in 2000.
At Latham, Alan continued to amass an impressive body of work that encompassed a number of complex, high-profile matters. He considered his representation of Essex Chemical in New Jersey’s first natural resource damages trial to be among the most challenging cases of his illustrious career. Alan and Latham colleagues developed a creative defense argument that called into question key principles of New Jersey’s natural resource damages program — resulting in a complete defense judgment for their client. Months later, Alan also successfully tried a second natural resource damages case for Union Carbide Corporation.
Says partner Kegan Brown, who worked under Alan on both cases: “I learned how to litigate from Alan. He was a top-notch trial lawyer and a master writer who crafted simple, persuasive arguments that resonated in court. Most importantly, Alan was a team player who always made you feel like he had time for you. It was clear that he genuinely wanted to help others grow and succeed.”
Partner Gary Gengel adds: “Alan was there for us whenever we needed his advice and guidance. His calm demeanor, steady pace and strategic mind instilled confidence.”
Trusted Leader and Inspiring Mentor
Alan’s remarkable resolve, trusted leadership and boundless energy were evident beyond his practice work. At Latham, Alan chaired the local Litigation Department for six years and was a member of the Associates and Pro Bono Committees. He considered one of his greatest professional honors to have been elected to the American College of Trial Lawyers in 1999. Alan also was a distinguished member of our Trial Advocacy program, serving on its faculty for more than 10 years and making incredible contributions to teaching trial lawyer skills.
His many accomplishments and service to Latham have left an enduring imprint on our firm. As a leader in several aspects of firm management, Alan and his unflappable judgement and analytical eye were highly valued, and he was a role model and mentor to many. Partner Miles Ruthberg recalls: “Alan was an extremely accomplished lawyer and a positive and inspiring mentor. Soft-spoken, understated and big-hearted, Alan was always quick to praise others and to share his wisdom. He brought the same commitment and passion to mentoring many of us in the courtroom as he did on the golf course — a game which he loved and for which he was prodigiously gifted.”
Alan will be remembered with great fondness and appreciation by his colleagues, particularly those who benefited from his thoughtful guidance. Adds associate Blake Denton: “I am a better lawyer today because of Alan’s mentorship. He took an interest not only in my work on our cases together, but also my career and family. Alan’s loss is a double-loss for Latham because we lost not only an elite trial lawyer, but a kind, wonderful person.”
We will miss Alan greatly and extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.