Christopher Hartmann is a seasoned attorney admitted to the New Jersey Bar and the United States District Court for New Jersey, as well as the Second and Third Circuit Courts of Appeal. Chris holds a Juris Doctor degree from The Washington University School of Law and earned his undergraduate degree with distinction from Drew University, where he was honored with membership in Phi Beta Kappa.

Early in his career, Chris served as Law Secretary to the Honorable Harry A. Margolis, J.S.C., gaining invaluable experience in the Chancery Division of the Essex County Superior Court. In over three decades of legal practice, his experience spans large, medium, and small firms, including partnerships and the founding of his own firm in 2005. Chris has a broad background in advising businessowners and handling commercial litigation (particularly in construction, employment, and contractual matters), with notable achievements that include securing favorable outcomes in complex trials and proceedings, such as real estate disputes, commercial construction arbitration, and employment cases representing management. His strategic counsel has led to successful negotiations of executive severance agreements, dismissals of discrimination claims, and summary judgments in employer-employee disputes.

Prior to establishing his own firm, Chris held counsel positions at several prestigious NJ law firms that specialize in debtor-creditor matters and bankruptcy proceedings. Chris has also been actively involved in legal ethics and professional development initiatives, serving on the Essex County District V-B Ethics Committee and as a Master in the William J. Brennan, Jr. Inn of Court. Throughout his career, Chris has been recognized for his exceptional legal acumen. He is sought after as a speaker on legal topics such as Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code, employment law, shareholder rights, and litigation avoidance strategies. Additionally, he authored articles on trial evidence, employee restrictive covenants, and New Jersey’s Conscientious Employee Protection Act, demonstrating his commitment to legal scholarship.

Outside of his legal practice, Chris gained valuable business and management experience in New Jersey’s hospitality industry. His multifaceted background equips him with a strategic and client-centered approach to addressing the diverse needs of businesses and individuals alike.

Email Christopher: chartmannn@avelinolaw.com