Calvin W. Souder is an attorney whose practice includes commercial and residential real estate, tax law, complex litigation, toxic torts, product liability, fraud, corporate governance, compliance, and insurance. He represents corporations and government entities, advising on complex corporate transactions and various legal matters.

In his practice, Mr. Souder assists developers and property owners with redevelopment agreements, Long-term Tax Exemptions (PILOTS), and tax appeals. He provides crucial guidance in landlord/tenant and municipal court cases, helping clients develop defense strategies against claims and manage legal challenges. Additionally, he offers strategic planning consultation, focusing on the impact of policy and regulatory changes. His expertise also includes facilitating client access to legislators involved in legislation across real estate, education, healthcare, energy, environment, and insurance.

Born in Newark, Mr. Souder has deep community ties, evidenced by his former role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Essex County College. He also served as Vice-Chairman of Newark Now, a program focusing on Financial Empowerment and Fatherhood, and as a trustee of the Mental Health Association of New Jersey, emphasizing mental health awareness in minority communities. His international commitment includes annual trips to Ghana with Adopt-one-Village, helping provide essential resources to village youths.

Recognized as a future leader, Mr. Souder participated in Leadership New Jersey in 2011 and completed the Masters of Distinguished Leaders program in 2013. His leadership extended to advising on significant state initiatives, including the UMDNJ-Rutgers merger and an investigation into the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission.

Before founding Souder, Shabazz & Woolridge, Mr. Souder worked at a prestigious national law firm. He clerked for U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton and New Jersey Superior Court Judge John A. O’Shaughnessy. His clerkship involved reviewing legal motions and appeals and drafting opinions on civil and criminal matters.

Mr. Souder’s academic background includes graduating with honors from Seton Hall University School of Law in 2007. He was active in leadership roles within the Black Law Student Association. He received the ALI-ABA Scholarship and Leadership award and was acclaimed as the Best Oral Advocate in Appellate Advocacy. His undergraduate years at the College of the Holy Cross saw him as a varsity football player and Vice-President of the Black Student Union.

This multifaceted professional journey highlights Mr. Souder’s commitment to law, education, community service, and leadership, marking him as a distinguished figure in both the legal field and community engagement.