State monitor blocks school board from rehiring high-priced lawyer again
Lakewood, NJ – For the third time in six months, State Monitor Louise Davis has moved to block the rehiring of attorney Michael Inzelbuch, citing his proposed $350 hourly rate as excessive.
The dispute has dragged on for nearly three months, leaving the Lakewood Board of Education without a regular legal counsel at its meetings and fueling criticism from local watchdogs. Davis has consistently raised concerns about the district’s legal spending and its impact on taxpayers.
Inzelbuch, who previously served as board attorney from 2017 until June, was a lightning rod for controversy during his tenure. He was paid at a rate of $475 per hour in the past and collected nearly $7 million in district funds over several years.
During the 2024-25 school year alone, records show Inzelbuch was paid $805,274.71. His high compensation has repeatedly drawn scrutiny from both state officials and residents.
Despite the ongoing stalemate, the school board has continued to push for Inzelbuch’s return, arguing that his familiarity with the district and its legal challenges makes him indispensable.
Davis, however, has maintained her position that his fees are unjustifiable.
Inzelbuch did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Key Points
- State Monitor Louise Davis blocked the rehiring of attorney Michael Inzelbuch for the third time in six months.
- Inzelbuch’s proposed $350 hourly rate was deemed too high, after he previously charged $475 per hour.
- He was paid more than $805,000 during the 2024-25 school year.