Peter D. Rigelhaupt
Attorney at The Perecman Firm
Peter D. Rigelhaupt joined The Perecman Firm in 2009, bringing over two decades of experience from the personal injury defense side, including extensive work in defending attorneys through all phases of legal malpractice cases. This background gives Peter a unique perspective on defense strategy and insurance industry practices, making him a formidable negotiator. Since joining the firm, he has achieved numerous seven-figure settlements for his clients, including a recent $5.5 million settlement for a union carpenter.
Peter also leads The Perecman Firm’s motion and appellate practice group, where his keen legal knowledge and writing skills have proven invaluable. Among his proudest achievements was being part of the team that persuaded the New York State Court of Appeals to review a complex civil rights case. The court reversed a lower court's dismissal, enabling a landmark $4 million settlement for a woman who alleged a coerced confession had wrongfully incarcerated her. Peter regularly argues before the First and Second Departments of the Appellate Division, as well as the New York State Court of Appeals, and has nearly 100 reported cases in state and federal courts, alongside numerous successful summary judgment motions.
Known for his persistence and attention to detail, Peter’s dedication is evident in cases where he identifies opportunities others might overlook. In one notable instance, he brought suit for a bus driver injured in a car accident, uncovering the liability of a national fast-food chain that employed the at-fault delivery driver, notwithstanding the fact that the client’s original attorney had settled a separate case arising out of the same accident for $20,000 that had been brought against the at-fault driver, but not the fast-food chain that employed him. To ensure that the client’s interests were fully protected, Peter also brought a separate legal malpractice action against the attorney who failed to sue the fast-food chain. Peter's approach led to a multi-million-dollar settlement, showcasing his commitment to thorough, client-focused advocacy.
Peter’s clients benefit from his accessibility and personal attention, and they are encouraged to contact him directly via text at any time. He is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the New York State Trial Lawyers Association. His work has been featured in the New York Law Journal’s "Top Verdicts in New York," and he has consistently been recognized as one of New York's leading attorneys by Super Lawyers.
Outside of the office, Peter enjoys traveling, golfing, cooking, and attending live music events.
A former disc jockey, he has a passion for music that he enjoys sharing with family and friends.Â
Bar Admissions
New York, 1988
U.S. District Court Eastern District of New York, 1991
U.S. District Court Southern District of New York, 1991
U.S. District Court Western District of New York, 2016
U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 2007
Membership
New York State Bar Association
New York State Trial Lawyers Association
