PTL Lawyer Quoted in Newsweek

Understanding Michael Cohen’s Admission and Its Implications for Civil Cases

In a recent turn of events, Michael Cohen, former attorney to Donald Trump, admitted to stealing from his former client. This revelation, highlighted in a Newsweek article, has significant implications not only for ongoing criminal investigations but also for potential civil cases against Cohen. Our attorney, trial lawyer Matthew Barhoma, succinctly stated, “This could undermine Cohen’s credibility as a witness,” which is crucial for understanding the broader legal repercussions of Cohen’s admission. Newsweek quoted trial attorney Matthew Barhoma for his legal analysis and commentary on the topic, as discussed below.

Michael Cohen’s Admission and Its Civil Implications

Michael Cohen’s admission to stealing from Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the legal community. His acknowledgment of unethical and illegal behavior raises questions about his credibility and reliability as a witness in any legal proceeding. For those considering or currently engaged in civil litigation against Cohen, this admission could be a pivotal point in their cases.

The Importance of Credibility in Civil Cases

Credibility is a cornerstone of any legal case, but it becomes especially crucial in civil litigation where the burden of proof often rests on the preponderance of the evidence. Matthew Barhoma’s comment, “This could undermine Cohen’s credibility as a witness,” underscores how vital a witness’s integrity is to the outcome of a case. When a witness is shown to have engaged in dishonest or criminal behavior, their testimony can be significantly devalued, if not entirely dismissed. Trial Attorney Matthew Barhoma stated, “The very hush money [Michael Cohen] was called to testify about, he could not answer correctly, and hurt the case”. Matthew Barhoma added, “now, with this admission, I think new legal issues could loom for Cohen.”

Potential Civil Actions Against Michael Cohen

For individuals or entities considering a civil lawsuit against Michael Cohen, his admission can be leveraged to strengthen their cases. Here are a few potential civil actions that could arise:

1. Fraud and Misrepresentation: Victims of Cohen’s deceitful practices could pursue civil claims for fraud and misrepresentation. His admission of theft can serve as strong evidence of his propensity for dishonest behavior.
2. Breach of Fiduciary Duty: As an attorney, Cohen owed his clients a fiduciary duty to act in their best interests. Admitting to stealing from Trump directly breaches this duty, providing a solid foundation for civil litigation.
3. Legal Malpractice: Clients who suffered due to Cohen’s unethical practices could file for legal malpractice. His admission strengthens the argument that his professional conduct was below the acceptable standard of care.

Building a Strong Civil Case

To build a strong civil case against Michael Cohen, plaintiffs should focus on gathering comprehensive evidence that highlights his unethical behavior. This includes:

• Documenting Financial Transactions: Plaintiffs should collect any financial records or communications that illustrate discrepancies or unauthorized transactions.
• Testimony from Affected Parties: Gathering statements from other clients or associates who experienced similar issues can help establish a pattern of behavior.
• Leveraging Cohen’s Admission: Using Cohen’s public admission strategically to question his credibility and highlight his untrustworthy nature during legal proceedings.

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

Navigating the complexities of a civil case against someone with a high profile like Michael Cohen requires experienced legal representation. A seasoned personal injury attorney can help:

• Assess the Viability of Your Case: Determining whether your claim has sufficient merit and the likelihood of success based on available evidence.
• Strategize Legal Approaches: Developing a robust legal strategy that incorporates Cohen’s admission and other pertinent evidence to strengthen your case.
• Negotiate Settlements: Engaging in negotiations with Cohen or his representatives to reach a fair settlement without prolonged litigation.

Conclusion

Michael Cohen’s admission of stealing from Donald Trump has profound implications for his credibility and opens the door for various civil actions against him. As Matthew Barhoma aptly noted, undermining Cohen’s credibility is crucial for any legal proceedings. If you believe you have been wronged by Michael Cohen, consulting with an experienced trial attorney can provide you with the guidance and representation needed to seek justice and compensation.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our firm today. We are committed to helping victims of unethical and illegal practices find the justice they deserve.