Thomas P. Vandenabeele, Esq., is an attorney with expertise in international commercial litigation and transatlantic legal relations. Born and raised in France, he has built a career spanning multiple legal systems, focusing on strengthening connections between France and the United States. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Vandenabeele has been involved in various professional and community organizations, earning recognition for his contributions to the legal and French-American communities.
Partner at Kellner Herlihy Getty & Friedman, LLP
Mr. Vandenabeele is a partner at Kellner Herlihy Getty & Friedman, LLP, a law firm recognized for its work in complex litigation and transactional matters. He specializes in international law, representing individuals and corporations in commercial disputes, particularly in cross-border litigation and asset recovery. His role as a partner highlights his experience and leadership in the field.
Thomas P. Vandenabeele Esq./Kellner Herlihy Getty & Friedman, LLP
Building a Solid Foundation in Law
Mr. Vandenabeele began his legal education in France, earning a Juris Doctorate (maîtrise) and a Master of Laws (D.E.A.) in European law from the University of Lille 2. This academic background provided him with a solid understanding of European legal systems. He later pursued an LL.M. at Indiana University School of Law–Indianapolis, expanding his expertise to include American law and gaining a broader international perspective.
Admission to the Bar and U.S. Practice
In 2006, Mr. Vandenabeele was admitted to the New York State Bar and is also licensed to practice in the U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. His practice focuses on complex commercial litigation and asset recovery, representing individuals and corporations, including French entities, in legal matters across the United States.
Achievements in Complex Litigation
Mr. Vandenabeele played a key role in securing a $264 million judgment in a case involving fraud and the misappropriation of loan funds through offshore networks. His work in this litigation demonstrated his skill in handling complex financial disputes and cross-border legal challenges.
Mr. Vandenabeele’s experience in asset recovery and complex litigation has established him as a strong advocate for clients, particularly those facing international business and financial disputes.
Leadership in the French-American Legal Community
Mr. Vandenabeele’s contributions extend beyond the courtroom. In 2007, he co-founded the French American Bar Association (FABA) and has served as its President since 2008. FABA fosters collaboration between French and American legal professionals and addresses the challenges of practicing law across both jurisdictions. Mr. Vandenabeele also serves as General Counsel for the French Consulate General in New York.
In 2024, he took on an additional role as General Counsel for Club Coupe du Monde Team USA, a culinary organization dedicated to excellence in gastronomy and international competition. This appointment reflects his broad legal expertise and commitment to strengthening transatlantic connections.
Educator and Public Speaker
Mr. Vandenabeele is also an educator, sharing his expertise through teaching and public speaking. As an Adjunct Professor at Fordham University School of Law, he teaches “Doing Business in the EU,” a course designed to help students understand European legal and business frameworks.
Mr. Vandenabeele is also a Visiting Professor at EDHEC Business School in Lille, France, a leading institution for business education. Through his teaching roles, he helps prepare future lawyers and business leaders to navigate international legal challenges with adaptability and ethical awareness.
Mr. Vandenabeele is also a sought-after speaker on international litigation. Known for his ability to simplify complex legal issues, he is a valued participant at conferences, seminars, and professional events.
Service to the French-American Community
Mr. Vandenabeele is actively involved in the French-American community, holding leadership roles in various cultural, social, and professional organizations. As President of the Committee of French Speaking Societies, he works to represent and advocate for the interests of French-speaking individuals and groups in the United States.
He is also a board member of l’Union des Français de l’Etranger, a global network supporting French citizens living abroad. His other affiliations include the Association des Cadres de Réserve Français aux Etats-Unis (ACREFEU), the American Society of Le Souvenir Français, l’Union Alsacienne, and BZH New York. These roles demonstrate his commitment to preserving French culture, supporting expatriate communities, and promoting cross-cultural connections.
Bridging Legal and Cultural Divides
As a native French speaker with expertise in both French and American law, Mr. Vandenabeele is well-equipped to bridge the legal and cultural divides between France and the United States. His fluency and deep understanding of both legal systems have made him a trusted advisor to individuals, corporations, and organizations engaged in cross-border operations.
Through his work, Mr. Vandenabeele demonstrates the value of transnational legal practice in resolving complex disputes, fostering international collaboration, and promoting mutual understanding between nations.
