Joseph M. Yaffe

Corporate Governance Law

4.0 (1 reviews)

Palo Alto, California

31+ years experience

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

Updated: Jan 03, 2026

Contact Information

650-470-4500

https://www.skadden.com/professionals/y/yaffe-joseph-m

525 University Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301

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Bio

Joseph M. Yaffe is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Corporate Governance Law, Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law and Employment Law - Management.Joseph M., who practices law in Palo Alto, California, has been recognized since 2018. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Joseph M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area. Joseph M. Yaffe is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Corporate Governance Law, Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law and Employment Law - Management.Joseph M., who practices law in Palo Alto, California, has been recognized since 2018. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Joseph M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area. Joseph M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Practice Areas

Corporate Governance Law

Awards & Recognition

Lawyer of the Year: Corporate Governance Law, San Jose (2024)
Lawyer of the Year: Corporate Governance Law, San Jose (2022)
Recognized: Corporate Governance Law
Recognized: Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Recognized: Employment Law - Management

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2018

Education

University of California Davis, J.D., graduated 1994

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Reviews

Thomas Sanchez

2 weeks ago

Exceptional guidance on a complex corporate governance matter

Our company engaged Joseph Yaffe at Skadden Arps to navigate a sensitive shareholder dispute and related governance overhaul. With over three decades of experience, his deep knowledge of corporate governance law was immediately evident. He didn't just cite statutes; he provided strategic counsel that balanced legal compliance with our unique corporate culture in Silicon Valley. His recognition as 'Lawyer of the Year' in this field is well-deserved, and his background in employment and ERISA law proved invaluable when the dispute touched on executive compensation issues. Joseph is a brilliant strategist who instills confidence. The one area where our experience wasn't perfect was in communication cadence; at times, we waited a bit longer than preferred for email responses during non-critical phases, though his associate team was always available. That minor point aside, his analysis was flawless and his guidance directly led to a favorable, stable resolution for our board. We would confidently recommend him for any complex corporate matter.