About Martin
Martin B. Wasser: Experienced Environmental and Family Law Attorney in New York City
For over four decades, Martin B. Wasser has dedicated his legal career to advocating for justice in both environmental and family law matters. As the head of the Environmental Law Department at Phillips Nizer LLP, Mr. Wasser is a renowned expert in environmental counseling and regulatory enforcement.
Practice Areas
- Litigation - Environmental
- Marijuana Legalization & Regulation
- Martial Law and Family Law (including Divorce, Prenuptial, Postnuptial Agreements, and Child Custody)
- Entertainment and Music Representations
- Governmental Relations
Awards & Recognitions
- Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2018
Educational Background
Martin B. Wasser graduated from Harvard University, where he developed a passion for law and environmental studies.
Bar Admissions
- New York State, United States
Law Firms & Affiliations
Martin B. Wasser has been a partner at Phillips Nizer LLP since joining the firm in 1977. Prior to this, he served as Special Assistant to the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation from 1975 to 1977.
Experience and Expertise
Martin B. Wasser has a diverse practice that encompasses all aspects of environmental counseling and regulatory enforcement, including Superfund cases and multi-party CERCLA litigation. His notable victories include:
- Commander Oil Corp. v. Barlo Equipment Corp.: In this landmark case in the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, Mr. Wasser successfully overturned a $850,000 damage award against a subtenant who was initially found liable as a Superfund owner. The decision established new precedents for landlord-tenant liability under Superfund responsibility regulations.
- Successfully appealed a United States Coast Guard CERCLA § 106 administrative order before the EPA Environmental Appeals Board, securing $1.2 million in reimbursement costs for remedial actions.
Martin B. Wasser has also been involved in significant multi-party CERCLA cases throughout the country and negotiated settlements with governmental entities on behalf of his clients.
Additional Professional Activities
In addition to his legal work, Martin B. Wasser frequently lectures at prestigious law schools and conferences. He is a member of the board of editors for Environmental Compliance & Litigation Strategy newsletter.
