Hon. Thomas J. LaConte (Ret.) re-joins Cole Schotz as Of Counsel, following an accomplished judicial and litigation career spanning over four decades.

Judge LaConte served with distinction on the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division, Civil Part, in the Passaic Vicinage from 2005 until his retirement. At the firm, he contributes his extensive judicial insight and legal acumen to the firm’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Litigation Services.

EXPERIENCE

Judge LaConte’s practice focuses on mediating and arbitrating a wide variety of civil disputes. His judicial experience equips him to resolve complex matters with efficiency, fairness, and a deep understanding of courtroom dynamics. His case experience spans construction litigation, corporate and commercial disputes, contract issues, and matters involving municipal and local governments.

Before his appointment to the bench, Judge LaConte practiced law for over 30 years at Cole Schotz, where he became a trusted name in complex civil and construction litigation. He represented clients in both state and federal courts and served as municipal attorney for the Borough of North Caldwell from 1979 to 2005.

As a respected mediator and advisor, Judge LaConte now assists attorneys and clients in shaping case strategy and resolving disputes before they reach the courtroom.

During his tenure on the bench, Judge LaConte presided over hundreds of civil trials, evidentiary hearings, and dispositive motions. He developed a reputation for impartiality, pragmatism, and detailed legal analysis.

In his earlier private practice, Judge LaConte’s litigation work included high-stakes construction and commercial matters, often involving multi-party disputes and intricate contract frameworks. He is also widely respected for his decades-long service as municipal counsel and his substantial knowledge of New Jersey’s municipal law landscape.

NETWORKS & AFFILIATIONS

Judge LaConte has held numerous leadership roles in the legal community. He served as President of the Passaic County Bar Association (1990–1991) and as Trustee of both the Passaic County Bar Association and Bergen County Bar Foundation. He was also Treasurer of the Bergen County Bar Foundation from 1999 to 2005.

He is a Master of the Justice Robert L. Clifford American Inn of Court and has lectured for the New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education. His professional affiliations include the American Bar Association, New Jersey State Bar Association, and the bar associations of Passaic and Bergen counties.

Judge LaConte is also a former Vice Chair of the Bergen County District II Fee Arbitration Committee and served for nearly two decades as Trustee of the Passaic County Legal Aid Society.