I pride myself on finding creative solutions and crafting effective technical arguments to solve my client’s most difficult problems. When it seems like our back is against the wall, clients appreciate that I find unusual and cutting-edge ways to open doors for defense. That is why clients frequently seek my guidance when faced with class actions and other complex and novel issues.
Joseph “Joe” Apatov is a versatile litigator who defends clients in class actions and complex litigation nationwide. With over a decade of experience in financial services, Joe handles disputes arising under federal and state consumer protection statutes, especially in Florida. He is particularly adept at handling litigation arising under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and has a knack for understanding unique issues faced by FinTechs and auto lenders in litigation.
In leading class action teams, Joe manages strategy and weaves together representation from across the firm’s practice groups. He has handled dozens of class actions involving issues ranging from data privacy to debt collection and more, and has overseen cases in more than 15 states. Clients have specifically sought Joe’s counsel for a wide range of matters, ranging from cases involving potential exposure of over $1 billion to cases challenging the company’s entire business model. He has defeated class certification and successfully argued key issues pertaining to jurisdiction and damages.
In his financial services litigation practice, Joe interfaces seamlessly with McGlinchey’s regulatory compliance attorneys to provide comprehensive, thorough representation. He looks for systemic problems that may have caused the underlying issue and, where appropriate, advises the client on remedial steps to take to avoid these issues. When litigation arises, the firm’s FinTech clients in particular benefit from Joe’s familiarity with the industry’s unique legal and business considerations.
A gifted technical communicator, he strives to present each assertion, whether in writing or in a courtroom, in a manner that makes it as familiar and palatable as possible. Joe also excels at researching and presenting novel or innovative arguments concerning legal issues that seem settled and final.
Joe is a respected voice among peers and colleagues, and he writes and speaks frequently on the topics of credit reporting, class actions, and complex litigation strategy. He has authored chapters in textbooks and treatises related to federal jurisdiction, the FCRA, and litigation considerations for credit card issuers.