Stephen Arena, partner

Stephen J. Arena

Partner

 

Education

J.D., Seton Hall University School of Law, 2005, cum laude

B.A., State University of New York at Albany, 1998

Bar Admissions

New York State Bar, 2006

United States District Court, Southern District of New York, 2009

United States District Court, Eastern District of New York, 2009

United States Court of Appeals, Second Circuit, 2017

Work History

Litigation Associate, Trachtenberg Rodes & Friedberg, LLP, 2008 to 2021

Corporate Associate, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP, 2005 to 2008

Programmer / Consultant, Misys (now Finastra), 1998 to 2002

Other Activities

International Bar Association

Association of the Bar of the City of New York

New Rochelle Bar Association

New York Super Lawyers

Stephen J. Arena

Partner

  • (212) 972-1375
  • Fax: (212) 972-1376

Stephen J. Arena

I represent domestic and international clients in the litigation, mediation and arbitration of complex commercial and business disputes.  I have represented a diverse range of U.S. and international businesses and commercial interests, including banks, Fortune 500 companies, investment firms, closely held companies, and individuals confronted with challenging legal and business issues. I have a strong track record as an experienced and practical litigator. I also advise clients on pre-litigation matters and early resolution of actions as well as discovery issues. I have substantial experience in connection with e-discovery matters and I routinely counsel clients on practical and legal issues relating to forensic preservation and analysis of electronic devices.

I began my legal career as an associate at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP, where I handled public and private securities offerings, lending transactions, and asset purchases and sales. I joined Trachtenberg Rodes & Friedberg LLP in 2008 where David Trachtenberg and I worked together on countless matters and built a strong, effective and efficient working relationship. While in law school, I gained experience in the investigation and prosecution of securities fraud, working in the New York Stock Exchange’s Division of Enforcement and at the Office of the New York State Attorney General’s Investment Protection Bureau. Prior to my career as an attorney, I gained a strong technological background as a computer programmer and software consultant at a large international software company, where I developed trade processing and analysis software for treasury, capital markets and derivative instruments.

I am an active member of IR Global, a premier international network of legal, accountancy, and financial professionals dedicated to delivering high-quality advisory services across more than 165 jurisdictions worldwide. Membership in IR Global is selective and peer-reviewed, bringing together independent leaders in their respective fields who share a commitment to integrity, collaboration, and client-focused outcomes.

Through my involvement with IR Global, I am able to better serve clients whose matters involve cross-border disputes, international regulatory considerations, and multi-jurisdictional transactions. This global affiliation complements my work in commercial litigation and dispute resolution by providing access to a trusted network of experienced professionals around the world.

I regularly collaborate with fellow IR Global advisors and engage in the exchange of best practices and emerging legal developments, allowing me to bring a broader international perspective and strategic insight to the clients I represent.

Broad complex commercial litigation experience with significant
e-discovery expertise.