As a leading crypto law firm, Bulldog Law is proud to provide updates on the ongoing lawsuit, Heabeart et al v. Coinbase, Inc. et al (Case No. 1:25-cv-09197-JSR), filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. This case, transferred from the Northern District of California on November 4, 2025, involves allegations under the Securities Exchange Act, highlighting critical issues in cryptocurrency trading and regulation. If you're seeking a cryptocurrency lawyer for a free consultation or need a crypto lawyer for hire, our team is here to assist with expert guidance on similar matters.

Case Background

The lawsuit has federal question jurisdiction. Plaintiffs, including Joel Heabeart, Kyle Kelley, Noel Yount, Israel Alatriz, Edward C. Toal, Maria Cecilia Lucanera, James Michael Smith, Justin Moran, Aaron Duncan, and others (some terminated on July 22, 2025), are represented by attorneys Mario P. Tafur of Bulldog Law, P.C., and Philip R. Berwish of Berwish Law. The defendants are Coinbase, Inc. et al., with Judge Jed S. Rakoff presiding.

The case originated in California Northern District (3:25-cv-04473) and was assigned to Judge Rakoff upon transfer. It is a jury demand case, focusing on potential violations in cryptocurrency-related securities practices.

Recent Updates

On December 4, 2025, Document 77 was filed: a Notice of Court Conference. The Honorable Jed S. Rakoff has scheduled an initial pretrial conference for January 16, 2026, at 11:15 AM via teleconference (USA Toll-Free: (855) 244-8681; Access Code: 23174323257). This conference aims to discuss case management and scheduling under Fed. R. Civ. P. 16. Parties must submit a written report on discovery agreements or disagreements by one week prior, using Form D for the Case Management Plan.

The notice emphasizes that the case is electronic, requiring counsel to register as filing users and file appearances. No adjournments will be considered unless requested within one week of the notice. The plan requires the case to be trial-ready within five months, by May 18, 2026.

On December 8, 2025, Document 78 was filed: a Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice for Mario Tafur of Bulldog Law, P.C. This motion allows Mr. Tafur, a California-barred attorney in good standing, to appear as counsel for the plaintiffs.

Upcoming Deadlines and Hearings

From the docket and deadlines report as of December 9, 2025:

The case management plan outlines timelines for joinder of parties, amended pleadings, discovery (documents, interrogatories, experts, depositions, requests to admit), and post-discovery summary judgment motions. All discovery must be completed by a date to be set, with the case ready for trial on May 18, 2026.

How Bulldog Law Can Help

As experienced crypto lawyers, we at Bulldog Law specialize in navigating complex cryptocurrency regulations and securities disputes. Whether you're affected by similar issues with platforms like Coinbase or need advice on digital asset compliance, contact us for a cryptocurrency lawyer free consultation. We're available as a crypto lawyer for hire to represent your interests vigorously.

Looking Ahead

As the case progresses, Bulldog Law will continue to provide public notices and updates. The initial conference on January 16, 2026, will be pivotal in setting the discovery schedule and addressing jurisdictional issues. Stay informed, and if you have questions about cryptocurrency securities or related legal matters, reach out to our team.

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