Real Brokerage Settles Lawsuit with Former CFO Michelle Ressler
Michelle Ressler and The Real Brokerage have reached a settlement in her wrongful termination lawsuit filed earlier this year. Ressler initiated the lawsuit in June 2025, claiming the company orchestrated her dismissal under false pretenses and replaced her with a less qualified male employee.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit filed in the District Court for the Southern District of New York alleges Ressler was forced out after becoming pregnant and taking maternity leave. Ressler, who was dismissed from her role as CFO in April 2025, contended that discrimination played a key role in her termination.
Settlement Agreement
In a joint letter filed on Thursday, Allison Van Campen, Ressler’s attorney, informed Judge Analisa Torres that following mediation on October 30, the parties reached "a settlement in principle."
"The parties were asking the court to extend all deadlines until December 17, 2025, while they finalize the terms of a written settlement agreement and fully resolve the matter."
After their decision to settle, Judge Torres dismissed the lawsuit the same day.
Background on Michelle Ressler
- Joined Real Brokerage in July 2020 as vice president of finance.
- Promoted to chief financial officer three months later.
Real Brokerage has not responded to requests for comment.
"Real did not immediately return HousingWire’s request for comment."
Author's Summary: The wrongful termination lawsuit filed by Michelle Ressler against Real Brokerage ended in a settlement, following claims of pregnancy discrimination and a court dismissal.