Howard Neu (1941-2024): The Domain Attorney Who Built an Industry

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A Life of Many Stages

Howard Neu lived a life that defied easy categorization. Before becoming one of the most recognized figures in the domain industry, he had already built careers as a politician, judge, television host, radio personality, and actor. This diverse background made him uniquely equipped to bring people together and advocate for an industry that barely existed when he first entered it.

The Public Servant

Howard's commitment to public service defined his early career:

The Media Personality

Howard's communication skills were honed across multiple platforms:

Television: Produced and hosted "South Florida Speaks," a Miami television talk show, for ten years.

Radio: Hosted a radio talk show for three years.

Stage and Screen: Appeared in numerous movies and stage musicals, including appearances in Miami Vice (1984), American Rickshaw (1989), and Porky's II: The Next Day.

The Complete Package

This remarkable background gave Howard skills that would prove invaluable to the domain industry:

• Legal expertise to defend domain investors
• Political savvy to navigate regulatory challenges
• Media presence to moderate conferences and panels
• Showmanship to make industry events memorable
• Relationship-building to unite a scattered community

As DNJournal noted in their 2009 cover story, Howard was truly a "Leading Man" who brought all these talents to the domain industry stage.

Entering the Domain Industry (1998)

The Introduction

Howard Neu's path to domain law began in 1998 through a client in the adult web industry. At that time, the domain industry barely existed as a recognized field. There were no domain conferences, no industry organizations, and very few attorneys who understood the unique legal issues surrounding domain names.

Meeting Rick Schwartz

That same year, Howard met Rick Schwartz, who would become known as "The Domain King." Their partnership would prove transformative for the entire industry.

Howard successfully defended Schwartz in domain-related claims even before the UDRP (Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy) was established in 1999. This early work demonstrated Howard's ability to navigate uncharted legal territory and protect domain investors from claims by trademark holders.

Early Legal Battles

In the late 1990s, domain law was being written in real-time. Howard represented clients in some of the earliest and most significant cases:

Pre-UDRP Defense: Howard defended domain investors before formal dispute resolution mechanisms existed, establishing strategies that would inform later proceedings.

John Zuccarini Cases: Howard represented the infamous John Zuccarini in Federal Court on multiple occasions. One of these rulings helped establish that typosquatting was subject to the Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act (ACPA) of 1999, creating important legal precedent.

The Shields v. Zuccarini Landmark: This Third Circuit case became the first to hold that typosquatting violated the ACPA, helping define the boundaries between legitimate domain investing and illegal cybersquatting.

Founding T.R.A.F.F.I.C. with Rick Schwartz

The Spark

Before 2004, domain investors operated in isolation. They connected through online forums and occasional meet-ups, but there was no industry conference, no professional gathering where they could meet face-to-face, share strategies, and build relationships.

Howard Neu and Rick Schwartz changed that by co-hosting domain industry "meet-ups" in 2002. The interest in these informal gatherings convinced them that something bigger was needed.

The First T.R.A.F.F.I.C. (October 2004)

On October 20-23, 2004, the first T.R.A.F.F.I.C. conference took place at the Delray Beach Marriott in Florida. It was the first major trade show specifically aimed at the domain investing industry.

The Historic Event:

What T.R.A.F.F.I.C. Represented

The conference name stood for Targeted Traffic (the lifeblood of domain monetization), but it represented much more:

• Legitimacy: Domain investing was a real industry
• Community: Investors could meet peers face-to-face
• Education: Panels and sessions shared knowledge
• Commerce: Live auctions facilitated major sales
• Networking: Business relationships formed in person

The Three Amigos

At that first T.R.A.F.F.I.C. conference in 2004, three attorneys who had been defending domain owners' rights finally met in person: Howard Neu, Ari Goldberger, and John Berryhill. Their success in defending domain investors earned them the affectionate nickname "The Three Amigos" from grateful clients in the industry.

A Decade of Growth

T.R.A.F.F.I.C. grew dramatically after that first gathering:

• 2005: Attendance doubled to 300
• 28 shows over 10 years: Spread across the United States, Canada, and Europe
• Major venues: New York City, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, Silicon Valley, and international locations
• Auction records: The 2007 New York T.R.A.F.F.I.C. auction brought in approximately $12 million
• Industry impact: T.R.A.F.F.I.C. auctions accounted for 39 of the top 100 domain sales in 2007

As Rick Schwartz later reflected: "I am proud of what Howard and I achieved and our families that supported us on behalf of a very special group of people that seized an opportunity that was life-changing."

The Domain Law Practice

The Law Office of Howard Neu, P.A.

Howard operated his law practice from Pembroke Pines, Florida, specializing in domain name disputes. His practice represented domain investors in defending against UDRP and ACPA claims, becoming one of the most trusted names in domain law.

Specializations

UDRP Defense: Howard represented domain investors in Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy proceedings before WIPO and other arbitration providers.

ACPA Litigation: He defended clients against Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act claims in federal courts.

Domain Transactions: Advised on domain acquisitions, sales, and portfolio management.

Trademark Counseling: Helped investors avoid trademark conflicts and understand their rights.

His Own Portfolio

Howard practiced what he preached. As a registrant of approximately 1,200 domains, he actively bought and sold domain names. His most notable holding was MalpracticeAttorneys.com, through which he forwarded active medical malpractice claims to attorneys across the United States.

This firsthand experience as a domain investor gave Howard unique insight into his clients' concerns and challenges.

Defending Domain Investor Rights

Notable Cases

Howard's legal work established important precedents for domain investor rights:

SaveMe.com (Rick Schwartz)

Howard successfully represented Rick Schwartz in this UDRP case. The panel, based on Howard's argument, ruled that the complainant failed to prove secondary meaning for their common law trademark. They provided no evidence of advertising or actual trademark use, only allegations. This case demonstrated that complainants must prove their claims with evidence, not mere assertions.

Sleeprx.com Case

Howard represented a domain investor with over 1,000 domains against Apnea Sciences Corporation. The result was a domain investor win with a finding of Reverse Domain Name Hijacking, meaning the panel determined the complainant had abused the UDRP process.

Annual UDRP Reports

Howard contributed to industry education by publishing annual reports analyzing UDRP case outcomes. These reports provided domain investors with statistical insights into:

• Win/loss rates for domain holders
• Common successful defense strategies
• Trends in complainant behavior
• Cases involving reverse domain name hijacking

These analyses helped investors understand their rights and make informed decisions about defending their domains.

Legal Philosophy

Howard's approach to domain law emphasized several key principles:

1. Legitimate business interests: Domain investors with genuine business uses for domains deserve protection
2. Burden of proof: Complainants must prove their case, not just allege infringement
3. Good faith registration: Domains registered before a trademark exists deserve protection
4. Fighting RDNH: Abusive complainants should face consequences for hijacking attempts

Building the Industry Community

Beyond T.R.A.F.F.I.C.

Howard's conference work extended beyond T.R.A.F.F.I.C.:

Merge Conference: Co-founded this industry gathering

The Domain Conference: Founded in 2015 with his wife Barbara and son Ray, continuing the tradition of bringing the industry together

Family Affair

The Neu family became an institution in the domain industry:

Barbara Neu: Howard's wife played an instrumental role in T.R.A.F.F.I.C. from the first conference in 2004 and co-founded The Domain Conference. Her organizational skills helped make events run smoothly.

Ray Neu: Howard's son became active in the industry and helped run The Domain Conference.

Veda Solomon: Howard's sister contributed enormous work to T.R.A.F.F.I.C. events.

Conference Culture

Howard's unique background shaped the culture of domain conferences:

• Professional panels with substantive content
• Entertainment that made events memorable
• Networking opportunities that built lasting relationships
• Welcoming atmosphere for newcomers
• Balance of education and business

The Mild-Mannered Moderator

Howard became known as the "mild-mannered moderator" of T.R.A.F.F.I.C. His television and radio experience made him a natural at guiding panel discussions, keeping conversations on track while allowing for genuine exchanges.

The ICA and Industry Advocacy

Founding Member

Howard was a founding member of the Internet Commerce Association (ICA), the organization that advocates for domain name registrants' rights. His involvement from the ICA's inception reflected his commitment to industry-wide advocacy, not just individual client work.

Supporting the Industry

For over 16 years, Howard provided the ICA with:

• Booth space at T.R.A.F.F.I.C. conferences and The Domain Conference at no charge
• Speaking time to educate attendees about registrant rights
• Legal expertise on policy matters
• Industry connections to strengthen advocacy efforts

Advocacy Work

The ICA under Howard's founding membership has fought for domain investor rights on issues including:

• UDRP reform and fairness
• Protection against registry abuse
• Transparency in domain policies
• Opposition to overreaching trademark claims
• Education about legitimate domain investing

The Lifetime Achievement Award

A Surprise Honor

In early January 2024, the ICA hosted what began as a standard AMA (Ask Me Anything) session featuring Howard Neu and Ron Jackson of DNJournal. What attendees didn't know was that the session would evolve into something far more significant.

During the webcast, Howard was surprised with the ICA Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his profound impact on the domain name industry.

The Recognition

The award acknowledged Howard's contributions:

• Co-founding pivotal industry conferences
• Shaping domain law through landmark cases
• Advocating for domain investor rights
• Nurturing the domain community
• Mentoring countless industry participants

Howard's Reaction

According to his wife Barbara, Howard was "so surprised and overwhelmed by the award and all the video comments. He was speechless (which was rare for him)."

The award included video messages from colleagues, clients, and friends throughout the industry, demonstrating the breadth of lives Howard had touched.

Timing

The award came at a poignant moment. Howard had been battling an aggressive form of cancer, and the community's recognition brought him comfort during his final weeks.

Remembering Howard

Passing

Howard Neu passed away in February 2024 after a brave, multi-month battle with an aggressive form of cancer. He was survived by his wife Barbara and son Ray, who stood by his side throughout.

Celebration of Life

On March 23, 2024, one day after what would have been Howard's 83rd birthday, over 150 people gathered at a meticulously decorated clubhouse for his Celebration of Life. Organized by his son-in-law Ira Goldberg, a retired police captain, the event reflected Howard's love of football and was designed to match "the immense size of Howard's heart and his extraordinary accomplishments."

Industry Tributes

The gathering looked like a "Who's Who" of the domain industry:

• Rick Schwartz: Howard's partner in founding T.R.A.F.F.I.C.
• Michael and David Castello: Legendary domain investors who flew in from California
• Michael Berkens: Prominent domain investor
• Ari Goldberger: Fellow attorney and one of "The Three Amigos"
• Michael Gilmour: Came from Melbourne, Australia to honor his friend
• Eddie Sixto, Bari Meyerson: And many other industry figures

What People Said

DNJournal's Ron Jackson, who knew Howard for decades, wrote: "Howard Neu is still with us and always will be--certainly in memories, but he also had a positive influence on who we are by treating us and others in a way that many try to emulate. As his time was closing, Howard handled it with incredible dignity and grace."

His Lasting Impact

On Domain Law

Howard helped establish domain law as a recognized specialty:

• Legal precedents protecting investor rights
• Defense strategies still used today
• Educational resources through annual UDRP reports
• Legitimization of domain investing as a business

On the Industry Community

Howard's community-building created lasting institutions:

• T.R.A.F.F.I.C.: The conference model for domain events
• The Domain Conference: Continuing the tradition
• ICA: Founding member of the advocacy organization
• Mentorship: Countless individuals he helped and advised

On Domain Investor Rights

Howard's advocacy work strengthened protections for domain investors:

• UDRP defense knowledge widely shared
• RDNH awareness helping identify abusive complainants
• Legal frameworks for legitimate domain investing
• Industry voice in policy discussions

The Model He Set

Howard demonstrated that success could come with generosity:

• Pro bono booth space for the ICA
• Free speaking time for educational purposes
• Mentorship without expectation of return
• Community building over individual gain

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Howard Neu best known for in the domain industry?

Howard was best known for three contributions: co-founding the T.R.A.F.F.I.C. conference with Rick Schwartz in 2004, defending domain investors in UDRP and ACPA cases through his law practice, and being a founding member of the Internet Commerce Association (ICA).

How many T.R.A.F.F.I.C. conferences were there?

Over 10 years, T.R.A.F.F.I.C. held 28 conferences across the United States, Canada, and Europe. The conference series established the model for domain industry events.

What was Howard's relationship with Rick Schwartz?

Howard and Rick Schwartz were longtime partners and friends. Howard represented Rick in legal matters before they co-founded T.R.A.F.F.I.C. together. Rick described Howard as his "lucky break" and noted that Howard was his "exact opposite," which made their partnership effective.

Did Howard Neu win many UDRP cases?

Yes, Howard was one of the most successful UDRP defense attorneys in the industry. Notable wins included the SaveMe.com case for Rick Schwartz and the Sleeprx.com case, which resulted in a Reverse Domain Name Hijacking finding against the complainant.

What was Howard's background before domain law?

Before entering domain law, Howard served three terms as Mayor of North Miami, worked as a municipal judge, hosted a television talk show for ten years, hosted a radio show for three years, acted in movies and stage musicals, and worked as a political strategist on presidential and congressional campaigns.

What happened to The Domain Conference after Howard's passing?

The Domain Conference, which Howard co-founded with his wife Barbara and son Ray in 2015, continues under family leadership. The event remains an important gathering for the domain industry.

What is the ICA that Howard helped found?

The Internet Commerce Association (ICA) is an advocacy organization that represents domain name registrants. It fights for domain investor rights on policy issues, educates the industry, and opposes overreaching trademark claims.

When did Howard receive the Lifetime Achievement Award?

Howard received the ICA Lifetime Achievement Award in early January 2024, just weeks before his passing in February 2024. The award was presented as a surprise during what started as a routine AMA webcast.

Key Takeaways

• Pioneer attorney: Howard helped establish domain law as a recognized legal specialty from 1998 onward
• Conference founder: Co-founded T.R.A.F.F.I.C. in 2004, creating the first major domain industry conference
• 28 shows over 10 years: T.R.A.F.F.I.C. held events across the U.S., Canada, and Europe
• ICA founding member: Helped create the domain industry's advocacy organization
• The Three Amigos: Along with Ari Goldberger and John Berryhill, defended domain investor rights
• Multi-talented background: Mayor, judge, TV host, radio personality, actor, and attorney
• Community builder: Known for mentorship, generosity, and bringing people together
• Lifetime Achievement: Honored by the ICA just weeks before his passing in February 2024

Next Steps

• Understand domain disputes: Learn about the UDRP process
• Know the difference: Read about domain investing vs cybersquatting
• Learn from legends: Explore the Castello Brothers' story
• Join the community: Visit InternetCommerce.org to learn about the ICA
• Study the conferences: Research domain investing conferences and events

Research Sources

• ICA - In Memory of Howard Neu
• ICA - Celebrating a Pioneer: ICA Honors Howard Neu with Lifetime Achievement Award
• ICA - Member Profile: Howard Neu
• DNJournal - Leading Man: How Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Personality, Politician & Attorney Howard Neu Wound Up Starring on the Domain Industry Stage (2009)
• DNJournal - The Big Bang Moment for Domain Investing: How the 1st TRAFFIC Conference Ignited a New Industry 20 Years Ago
• DNJournal - The Invaluable Legacy Howard Neu Left for the Domain Industry, His Family and Friends
• ICANNWiki - T.R.A.F.F.I.C.
• ICANNWiki - Rick Schwartz
• DomainSherpa - Howard Neu: Beat a UDRP by Having a Legitimate Business Interest
• DomainInvesting.com - Howard Neu Passed Away