Marc Kasowitz, the prominent New York attorney, faces a lawsuit from Jewish students alleging he improperly retained $6.4 million from a settlement resolving antisemitism claims against Columbia University. The students claim Kasowitz, who represented them in the matter, exceeded reasonable fee arrangements and failed to distribute settlement proceeds fairly.
The dispute centers on fee-sharing arrangements in class action or group settlements. Plaintiffs' counsel typically receive contingency fees ranging from 25 to 40 percent of recovered funds, subject to court approval. The students contend that Kasowitz's $6.4 million allocation vastly exceeded legitimate compensation for legal services rendered, particularly given the settlement's total amount and the number of affected parties.
Kasowitz built his reputation representing high-profile clients in defamation and commercial disputes. His involvement in the Columbia antisemitism case elevated its visibility, particularly as campus incidents involving Jewish students drew national scrutiny. Columbia faced mounting pressure following 2023 and 2024 protests, where campus security responses to pro-Palestinian demonstrations sparked criticism that Jewish students received inadequate protection.
The settlement resolved claims that Columbia failed to enforce its anti-discrimination policies and maintain a safe educational environment for Jewish students. Those allegations invoked Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, and national origin at federally funded institutions.
The new lawsuit raises questions about attorney compensation transparency in campus discrimination settlements. Courts increasingly scrutinize fee awards in cases involving student plaintiffs, who may lack sophisticated understanding of legal billing structures. Federal judges reviewing settlement agreements must approve attorney fees, ensuring they remain reasonable relative to case complexity, recovery amount, and time expended.
For Kasowitz, the allegation creates reputational and financial exposure. If the suit succeeds, he faces potential fee disgorgement or reduced compensation. The case also signals growing scrut