McCarter & English, LLP mourns the loss of our friend and colleague, Howard M. Berkower, who passed away on August 18, 2026.
Howard was a trusted corporate and securities advisor who brought extensive legal and financial knowledge to his practice and genuine care to his relationships with clients. A former CPA before attending law school, he understood both the legal and business dimensions of a matter. He listened closely to his clients, understood what they were trying to accomplish, and worked with them to find the right solution.
Throughout his career, Howard advised companies, private equity and venture capital funds, financial institutions, and investors on complex corporate transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, investments, financings, and fund formation. He also counseled public companies, boards, and senior executives on corporate governance, fiduciary duties, and securities matters. Howard was never afraid to get into the details, whether analyzing a valuation or negotiating the terms of a transaction, and his clients valued the sound judgment and business perspective he brought to every matter.
Howard was also a respected voice on corporate and securities matters, frequently speaking and writing on emerging issues in the field. He appeared on Bloomberg Television to discuss material adverse change provisions in public merger agreements and was quoted in the media on developments affecting investment advisers and financial institutions.
Beyond his accomplishments as a lawyer, Howard will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, humor, and love of bringing people together. He treasured his family and friends and had a particular appreciation for good food, music, and conversation. He was also known for his quick wit and his love of Curb Your Enthusiasm, which reflected his own sense of humor and irreverence. He brought that same warmth and humanity to the workplace.
Howard is survived by his wife, Mindy, his children, Jason and Jenna, and his extended family and friends.
For those who had the privilege of working with Howard, his professional accomplishments tell only part of the story. We will remember the colleague who was always willing to help, the trusted advisor who cared deeply about his clients, and the friend whose warmth and humor made everyone around him feel welcome. Howard leaves a lasting impression on our firm and on all who knew him.