Nick Pastan is a trial-tested class action and commercial litigator who represents clients in high stakes disputes involving ERISA, False Claims Act allegations, and government-facing litigation. He serves as counsel at all stages of litigation—from pre complaint investigation through trial and appeal—in federal and state courts nationwide.
Nick has substantial experience defending companies in complex class actions, particularly under ERISA, including fiduciary breach, prohibited transaction, and plan administration claims. His work often involves technically complex issues of benefit plan design and statutory interpretation. He has secured dismissals and defense verdicts for plan sponsors, fiduciaries, and corporate defendants, and advises on litigation strategy in matters involving parallel regulatory or enforcement exposure.
In addition to his ERISA practice, Nick regularly defends clients in False Claims Act litigation and other disputes involving federal or state government entities. He has represented clients across a range of industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defense contracting, financial services, consumer products, and financial services, and is experienced in managing matters involving overlapping civil litigation, investigations, and enforcement risk. He is particularly skilled at distilling complex factual records and regulatory frameworks into clear, persuasive advocacy.
Nick has tried cases to verdict, argued dispositive motions, and handled all phases of discovery in complex, expert-driven matters, including multidistrict litigation. Clients value his strategic judgment, courtroom experience, and ability to manage technically demanding cases efficiently while maintaining a sharp focus on business objectives. He also maintains an active and trial-focused pro bono practice, serving as lead counsel in civil rights and False Claims Act matters, and represents individuals in housing, excessive force, and immigration cases.
Earlier in his career, Nick worked in education, which informs his disciplined communication style and collaborative approach to litigation.