Maddin on the Move – Q&A Series With Deborah Lapin
With Maddin Hauser having moved offices for the first time in 38 years, and on the cusp of the firm’s 100th anniversary, our attorneys reflect on our proud history, their professional journeys, and what the future holds for the firm and its clients.
Today, we chat with Deborah Lapin, a shareholder in our Financial Services and Real Property Litigation group. She specializes in all aspects of real estate litigation, particularly mortgage-related and title insurance coverage disputes, as well as other contractual disputes.
Q: Tell me about your practice and how long you’ve been with Maddin Hauser. What attracted you to the firm, and what do you value or appreciate most about working at MH?
A: When I joined Maddin Hauser in July 2017, my practice focused on mortgage litigation and title-related matters. I knew that the firm had a national reach and the kind of exceptional practitioners who could help me take my career to the next level, with more complex and challenging cases and an opportunity to expand my knowledge base and skill set.
Not only did that all prove to be true, but it was also clear from the outset that this firm had a vision for the future; it was agile, open to change and innovation, and knew how to grow in a prudent, logical, and thoughtful manner. As someone who has always valued mentoring newer attorneys, the firm’s commitment to developing new talent and the collaborative and supportive spirit in which they do so have been personally inspiring and professionally impressive.
Q: The firm launched an important initiative in 2023, The Maddin Hauser Way, which clearly defines everyone’s shared values and practices that are the foundation of the firm’s culture. Recognizing that all of them are vital, is there one that has more greatly influenced or impacted your practice?
A: There are two that really speak to me. The first is “Treating Each Other Like Family.” As a litigator who spends a lot of time in an adversarial environment, it is very sustaining and balancing to know that I get to come back to a workplace that feels like a home. It is a place where everyone is there for you, and you are there for them, whether that means discussing the events of the day, blowing off steam, sharing a laugh, or talking about your latest family vacation.
The second one that means a lot to me is “Share the Why.” Whether with a client or a colleague, if you explain the big picture and discuss the reasons for adopting a particular approach or strategy, it gives folks a sense of ownership, encourages their participation and collaboration, and ultimately leads to a better project or result.
Q: The firm has just moved into its new office space. What aspect of this move are you most excited about?
A: The multi-floor layout we just left led to too much separation and not enough interaction between practice groups and among attorneys and staff. The new, unified space is much more conducive to and reflective of the values of connection and family that are so central to the firm. It is also reinvigorating and refreshing to be in a bright, modern office.
Q: Maddin Hauser will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. If you had a crystal ball, what would you see in the firm’s future?
A: If the past is prologue, the firm will continue to grow and expand its capabilities by bringing in and developing top talent and maintaining an environment that makes people want to stay here for the long haul. Stagnation is anathema here, and Maddin Hauser will keep moving forward as it has done these past 100 years. I am extremely happy and proud to be a part of it.