Stephen W. Kelkenberg

How Stephen Helps Clients

Stephen counsels clients on employment and commercial disputes, with an emphasis on contracts, restrictive covenants, discrimination, trade secrets, and non-disclosure agreements.

Stephen’s trial experience includes both arbitrations and many bench and jury trials in several jurisdictions throughout the United States, including New York and New York City, New Jersey, Florida, and Louisiana. These cases have included employment discrimination claims, contract and property disputes, Federal civil and New York State human rights matters, trade secret and copyright claims, and disputes involving employee misconduct. Stephen has litigated several New York State and federal tax matters — both on the prosecution side and assisting clients in the defense of claims brought by the government. He also represents national and international clients in connection with international arbitrations before the AAA-ICDR.

Additionally, Stephen has experience with regulatory and compliance-related matters. He assists clients in responding to federal investigations, both as parties and non-parties, and aids them in all aspects of subpoena compliance. In this role, Stephen works with clients to address and handle internal investigations and formal presentations to regulators, and to develop protocols and strategies for future compliance.

What Clients Can Expect

Stephen is an analytical and practical problem solver for clients. His range of litigation experience allows him to prepare clients for what to expect in both federal and state court, as well as arbitration. Throughout the relationship with the client, whether that be prelitigation, litigation and alternate dispute resolution, internal investigations, or compliance-related matters, Stephen communicates effectively with clients and works diligently on their behalf.

Outside the Office

Stephen and his family love to explore new cities and places, often finding the best hiking trails to traverse as a family. One of their favorite places to visit is Allegheny National Forest.

Awards and Recognition

• Best Lawyers in America (Commercial Litigation, Litigation - Securities) 2022 – 2025
• Upstate New York Super Lawyers (Business Litigation) 2019 – 2022
• Upstate New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars, 2013
• National Order of Barristers