News

Jacob Mindel Promoted to Partner at Athlaw LLP

Athlaw LLP is thrilled to announce Jacob Mindel’s promotion to Partner. Jacob began his legal career with Athlaw LLP as a summer clerk in 2021, demonstrating from the get-go a passion for advocacy that has only deepened. Over the next four years, Jacob has played an essential role in the firm’s efforts on behalf of former professional athletes, particularly within the NFL Concussion Settlement.

Jacob’s extensive experience fighting for the rights of disabled players has made him a standout advocate. His strategic thinking, strong briefing skills, and relentless commitment to supporting retired players has earned him frequent praise among colleagues and clients alike.

Jacob’s promotion marks an exciting chapter for the firm as we continue to grow our leadership team with partners who share our core values: integrity, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to protecting athletes’ rights. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement and look forward to Jacob’s continued contributions in the many years ahead.

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Sam Katz Featured in The Athletic for NFL Disability Plan Lawsuit

Athlaw LLP founder Sam Katz was featured in The Athletic for his work representing former NFL players in a class action lawsuit challenging the practices of the NFL's Disability & Survivor Benefit Plan.

In the article, Sam discusses the long-standing systemic barriers disabled players face when seeking the benefits to which they are entitled. Drawing on nearly a decade of experience in ERISA litigation, Sam highlights how the plan’s procedures often disadvantage former players — and how Athlaw LLP is working to change that through aggressive legal advocacy and strategic litigation.

Sam’s leadership in this critical case underscores Athlaw LLP’s ongoing commitment to transparency, fairness, and justice for retired NFL players. We are proud to be recognized as leaders in this fight and look forward to continuing our efforts to hold powerful institutions accountable.

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Julia Damron Connects with Future Lawyers at USC Gould School of Law

Athlaw LLP Managing Partner Julia Damron recently participated in a professional development event hosted by USC’s Gould School of Law. Julia engaged with current law students during a "mock mixer" designed to help them sharpen their networking and communication skills.

As an advocate for the next generation of attorneys, Julia offered valuable insights into building a career in plaintiff-side litigation, with a focus on representing professional athletes in complex ERISA and disability benefits cases. She was particularly excited to meet several students who already recognized Athlaw LLP's work in the field of sports law.

At Athlaw LLP, we are committed not only to advancing the rights of our clients but also to contributing to the development of the legal profession. Julia’s participation reflects our broader mission of fostering excellence, mentorship, and advocacy both inside and outside the courtroom.

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Athlaw LLP Featured in Associated Press Article for NFL Disability Lawsuit Work

Athlaw LLP was recently featured in an article by the Associated Press for its role in spearheading litigation concerning the NFL’s disability benefits program.

Founder Sam Katz and the Athlaw LLP team have worked tirelessly to uncover evidence of systemic unfairness within the plan's administration. Their work – including preparing the majority of the amended complaint and opposing defendant’s motion to dismiss – has been instrumental in moving the case forward on behalf of former players wrongfully denied benefits.

This national recognition highlights the importance of Athlaw LLP’s mission: protecting the rights of disabled athletes who have given their bodies – and in many cases, their futures – to the sport they love. We remain deeply committed to fighting for accountability, transparency, and fair treatment for every client we represent.

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Sam Katz Shares Insights on Building a Career in Sports Law at USC Gould School of Law

Athlaw LLP’s founder, Sam Katz, has been recognized for his leadership and advocacy by frequently speaking at USC’s Gould School of Law, before members of the Sports Law Society. 

As an alumnus of USC Gould, Sam shared his experience building a career at the intersection of sports, ERISA law, and athlete advocacy. He discussed critical issues facing professional athletes today, the legal complexities surrounding disability benefits, and the need for passionate legal representation to protect player rights.

Alongside former NFL running back Chris Johnson, Sam provided students with practical advice on navigating a career in sports law, stressing the importance of integrity, perseverance, and expertise in an ever-evolving field.

At Athlaw LLP, we remain committed to supporting the next generation of legal professionals who share our dedication to representing athletes and championing their rights both on and off the field.

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Sam Katz Featured in Law.com on Groundbreaking NFL Disability Plan Class Action Lawsuit

Athlaw LLP’s Founding Partner, Sam Katz, was featured in Law.com for his leadership role in a landmark class action lawsuit challenging the practices of the NFL’s disability benefits plan.

The case, brought on behalf of former players, alleges systemic breaches of fiduciary duties and wrongful denials of disability benefits under the ERISA-regulated Plan. In his commentary, Sam underscored Athlaw LLP’s unwavering commitment to exposing injustices within the system and pursuing accountability on behalf of disabled former athletes.

Through a combination of extensive ERISA expertise, detailed legal research, and dedicated client advocacy, Athlaw LLP continues to lead the charge in reforming a process that too often fails the very players it is meant to protect.

Athlaw LLP remains proud to represent these athletes and to fight for a fair and just system that honors their contributions to the game. 

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