Supreme Court of New Jersey
Virginia B. Puder, Esq., Plaintiff-Appellant v. Kathleen Buechel, Defendant-Respondent
June 7, 2005874 A.2d 534
Summary
The Supreme Court of New Jersey held that Kathleen Buechel is bound by her representation to the trial court that the divorce settlement was "acceptable" and "fair," thereby barring her legal malpractice claim against Virginia B. Puder. The Court reversed the Appellate Division and remanded for reinstatement of summary judgment in favor of the attorney, emphasizing public policy favoring conclusive settlements. Justice LONG dissented, arguing the malpractice claim should proceed, while Justice WALLACE, Jr. concurred, agreeing with the result but emphasizing the damages analysis.