This article covers the case of disbarred New Jersey attorney Steven H. Salami, who was sentenced to 10 years in prison for stealing nearly $1.18 million from clients.
Salami, a former Hazlet-based real estate attorney, admitted to defrauding dozens of clients by misusing funds placed in escrow for real estate transactions, failing to complete services, and causing financial and legal consequences for his victims.
The investigation began in 2019, initially focusing on four clients who collectively lost $300,000 between April and August of that year. Salami’s arrest in October 2019 led to the discovery of additional victims, culminating in a 63-count indictment in July 2021.
After a delay due to an appellate ruling in 2023 that reinstated two charges, Salami ultimately pleaded guilty in October 2024 to second-degree financial facilitation of criminal activity.
As part of his sentencing, Salami was ordered to repay the full amount to the New Jersey Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection, which had reimbursed his defrauded clients.
This case underscores the severe consequences of legal malpractice and financial fraud by trusted professionals.