NEW YORK – Foley & Lardner LLP announced today that Kay Gordon has joined the firm’s New York office as a partner in its Fund Formation & Investment Management (FFIM) Practice Group. Her arrival marks a streak of impressive growth for the FFIM Practice and comes directly on the heels of several recent additions to the group on the East Coast, including David Makso, a tax partner in the New York office supporting FFIM, and funds partner Gustavo (Gus) Resendiz and associate Robert Linnoila, who joined the firm’s FFIM Practice in Boston.

For over two decades, Gordon has counseled clients on the formation and management of private equity funds, real estate funds, funds-of-funds, hedge funds, credit funds, and venture funds, as well as compliance-related matters involving registered advisers and broker-dealers. She advises clients on a broad range of securities and regulatory matters in addition to a variety of financial instruments and transactions, including managed accounts, credit facilities, joint ventures, and derivative instruments. Gordon also works closely with strategic, institutional, and seed investors and represents clients in investigations led by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and other regulators.

“We’re excited to have Kay join at such a pivotal point in the group’s expansion, and her capabilities will enhance the wide array of services we already provide our clients,” said Andrew Kurzon and Stephen Meli, co-chairs of Foley’s FFIM Practice. “Her extensive experience across multiple asset classes and vehicle types will strengthen FFIM’s existing depth and capabilities, particularly with respect to real estate funds, open-ended funds, fund-related derivatives, and other bespoke areas.”

“Kay has represented countless private funds pursuing a wide variety of investment strategies – and we’re confident that her wealth of experience will be put to good use in one of the world’s leading financial centers,” said Anne Sekel, managing partner of the firm’s New York office. “Her reputation precedes her, especially her successful representation of prominent private funds, sponsors, and other clients before the SEC and other financial regulatory agencies. We’re delighted to have her onboard.”

“As I look to expand my practice, Foley’s robust infrastructure and national presence will be invaluable assets,” said Gordon. “I look forward to working alongside the collegial team of lawyers comprising the firm’s FFIM Practice and collaborating with team members across complementary practices, including Tax, Transactions, Insurance, and Finance, amongst others.”

Gordon joins the firm from Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, where she served as partner and co-head of the firm’s Investment Management Group. She is a frequent speaker and author, as well as a chartered financial analyst.

About Foley & Lardner LLP
Foley & Lardner LLP is a preeminent law firm that stands at the nexus of the Energy, Health Care & Life Sciences, Innovative Technology, and Manufacturing Sectors. We look beyond the law to focus on the constantly evolving demands facing our clients and act as trusted business advisors to deliver creative, practical, and effective solutions. Our 1,100 lawyers across 25 offices worldwide partner on the full range of engagements from corporate counsel to intellectual property work and litigation support, providing our clients with a one-team solution to all their needs. For nearly two centuries, Foley has maintained its commitment to the highest level of innovative legal services and to the stewardship of our people, firm, clients, and the communities we serve.

ArentFox Schiff is pleased to announce the selection of Brian P. Waldman as Firmwide Managing Partner, effective January 1, 2024. Based in the Washington, DC office, Waldman succeeds Firmwide Co-Managing Partners Cristina A. Carvalho and Joseph J. Krasovec, III, who completed their terms following the successful merger in March 2022 of Arent Fox and Schiff Hardin. Both will remain on ArentFox Schiff’s Executive Committee, and Krasovec will now serve as Managing Partner of the firm’s Chicago office.

Waldman will lead the firm together with Chairman Anthony V. Lupo to advance ArentFox Schiff’s commitment to exceptional legal work and industry-focused approach to client service, promote an inclusive environment where diverse talents can succeed, and maintain the firm’s position as a leader in public service.

“Cristina and Joe have made incredible contributions, both in leading their respective firms prior to our transformative merger and in guiding the successful integration,” said Lupo. “Having worked alongside Brian on the Executive Committee for more than 10 years, I am confident that Brian can help us build upon our recent success as we take the firm to new heights.”

Waldman brings extensive leadership experience to the role, having served on the firm’s Executive Committee for more than a decade; led the Food, Drug, Medical Device & Cosmetic group; and co-managed the Regulatory Department. In his practice, Waldman advises companies in the pharmaceutical, medical device, food, dietary supplement, and cosmetic sectors on a broad range of legal and regulatory issues throughout all phases of a product’s life cycle.

As a trusted advisor on intellectual property strategy for global companies, Carvalho has brought astute judgment and deep experience in business counseling to her leadership role over the past eight years, including taking Arent Fox through two mergers. Likewise, Krasovec’s background as a highly accomplished product liability litigator with a focus on clients’ business objectives proved invaluable as the firm navigated the merger integration and COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been incredibly gratifying working with people across ArentFox Schiff to create a truly integrated firm that is known as forward-thinking, entrepreneurial, and consistently able to deliver exceptional legal work,” said Krasovec.

“Brian shares our leadership team’s passion for innovation in the delivery of legal services, creating an environment that attracts and retains top diverse talent, and spurring continuous growth,” added Carvalho. “Working with him during this transition period only reinforced that he is the right leader to guide the firm through this next chapter.”

“It is a great honor to be named Firmwide Managing Partner at such a pivotal moment in the firm’s storied growth trajectory,” said Waldman. “Whether it’s capitalizing on the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence, expanding our capabilities to stay ahead of client needs, or nurturing a strong firm culture, I’m excited to build on the tremendous success of my predecessors and help shape ArentFox Schiff’s path forward in 2024 and beyond.”

About ArentFox Schiff
Your goals define our mission. Whether an immediate need or a long-term objective, ArentFox Schiff helps you reach your full potential. As industry insiders, we partner with you to develop practical business strategies and sophisticated legal solutions to achieve today’s targets and anticipate tomorrow’s problems. We get you across the finish line. Learn more at www.afslaw.com.

The national law firm of Quarles & Brady LLP today announced that Matthew Holohan has joined the firm’s Denver office as a partner in the Intellectual Property Practice Group. He was previously at an intellectual property (IP) firm in Denver.

Holohan counsels clients through complex IP disputes in both state and federal court. Representing national and international companies, he works to resolve a variety of IP disputes and related IP strategy issues. Holohan has a background in physics and experience representing companies in a wide range of technologies, including electrical engineering, computer hardware and software, telecommunications, networking, mechanical devices and consumer products.

“Matt is a seasoned intellectual property litigator and has successfully represented clients ranging from solo practices and startups to Fortune 500 companies,” said Lori Ruhly, Intellectual Property national chair. “He is a fantastic addition to our Denver office and highlights our continued growth in Colorado.”

Holohan has been named to Best Lawyers in America (Intellectual Property Litigation and Patent Law) each year since 2022, a Colorado Super Lawyer since 2022 and was listed to the IAM Patent 1000 in 2023. He received his J.D. and B.A. from the University of California – Berkeley.

“Quarles has a nationally recognized and deep intellectual property team with experience across many industries and capabilities,” said Holohan. “I know my patent and litigation experience will benefit the team and I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues to help our clients achieve their business goals.”

Blank Rome LLP is pleased to announce that Timothy K. Lewis, former judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit and the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and Brandy S. Ringer have joined the firm’s Pittsburgh office in the Corporate Litigation group as senior counsel and associate, respectively. The duo joins from Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis where Judge Lewis was co-chair of the firm’s alternative dispute resolution practice and former co-chair of the appellate practice.

Judge Lewis was appointed to both judicial positions by President George H. W. Bush. Prior to his judicial service, Judge Lewis served as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania and as an assistant district attorney in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Judge Lewis and Brandy are the latest additions in a string of strategic hires. Nationally, Blank Rome has experienced significant growth across the firm’s offices and practice groups since the start of the year, welcoming more than 24 lateral partners to date and opening a Dallas office. Recently the Pittsburgh office welcomed Andrew P. Cross and Alexander J. Bell.

“We are honored to welcome Judge Lewis and Brandy to the firm,” said Grant S. Palmer, Blank Rome’s Chair and Managing Partner. “Judge Lewis has had a remarkable career as a prosecutor, judge, private practitioner, and activist, and we are fortunate to have him join our ranks. Whether he is helping a trial team steer an appellate case, a client navigate mediation, or aiding a nonprofit in the pursuit of civil rights, Judge Lewis draws upon his decades of unmatched experience to reach sound and successful resolutions. He and Brandy will be tremendous additions to our national litigation team.”

Judge Lewis will advise domestic and international clients through arbitration, mediation, and other means of alternative dispute resolution (“ADR”). Additionally, Judge Lewis counsels lawyers, businesses, and individuals on appellate strategy for matters pending in state and federal appellate courts throughout the country. Judge Lewis also handles federal and state criminal cases and corporate investigations.

Brandy’s practice spans all aspects of general commercial litigation, including product liability, aviation law, contractual litigation, internal investigations, and appellate litigation. She has experience in all facets of litigation, including drafting pleadings, facilitating pre-trial discovery, taking plaintiff and fact witness depositions, drafting and arguing dispositive motions, and participating in trial preparation, trial, and settlement negotiations. She also has experience briefing appeals in the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, Superior Court, and Supreme Court; the Third Circuit; and the Ninth Circuit.

“We’re thrilled to have Judge Lewis and Brandy join our litigation team in Pittsburgh,” said Amy Joseph Coles, Partner and Co-Chair of Blank Rome’s Pittsburgh office. “Judge Lewis is a powerhouse figure in the Pennsylvania legal community and brings to Blank Rome expansive knowledge of state and federal courts as well as an impressive track record of successfully resolving disputes out of court.”

Roy W. Arnold, Partner and Co-Chair of the Pittsburgh office, added, “Since becoming co-chairs of the firm’s Pittsburgh office in January, Amy and I have been focused on the development and growth of the team here. We are very excited about the top-tier talent we have welcomed this year to serve clients, locally and nationally, and look forward to continued momentum in the months ahead. Judge Lewis and Brandy are highly skilled, service-oriented, collaborative attorneys and will be great fits with our office and firm culture.”

“While I’m absolutely thrilled to join Blank Rome, I must acknowledge that I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Schnader, which gave Brandy and me an important platform to address professional matters and social issues of significance to our local communities and beyond,” added Judge Lewis. “I’m extremely excited to bring all my experience to the firm. I’ve worked with Blank Rome for years and many of the firm’s attorneys appeared before me when I sat on the bench. I am deeply impressed with the professionalism and experience of the firm’s lawyers, and I look forward to expanding my ADR and appellate counseling practices through Blank Rome’s national platform.”

While at Blank Rome, Judge Lewis will also dedicate time to pro bono and community investment initiatives focused on issues related to civil and human rights, as well as judicial independence and upholding the integrity of the judiciary throughout the country. For example, he sits on the board of directors and officers and serves as treasurer of the Eradicate Hate Global Summit.

Judge Lewis is an active participant in many organizations in and outside of the legal community, including the American Law Institute; the American Arbitration Association; the CPR-International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution; the Council on Criminal Justice; The Appellate Project; and the Interbranch Commission for Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Fairness; among others. He has also served as an adjunct professor, faculty member, guest lecturer, moot court judge, and commencement speaker at various law schools, including the University of Pittsburgh, the Georgetown Law Center, Duquesne, Temple, and Harvard. He earned his J.D. from Duquesne University and his B.A. from Tufts University.

Brandy served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Christine L. Donohue at both the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and the Pennsylvania Superior Court. As a judicial law clerk, Brandy worked on a wide array of matters and issues of first impression. She earned her J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and her B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh, magna cum laude.

Tarsha A. Phillibert has joined Duane Morris LLP as a partner in the firm’s Trial Practice Group in its Washington, D.C.. Prior to joining Duane Morris, Phillibert was a trial attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division, Fraud Section.

“The strength of our Trial Practice Group is a hallmark of Duane Morris and our already-stellar white-collar defense capabilities are enhanced by Tarsha Phillibert, who will contribute deep experience as a federal litigator,” said Duane Morris Chairman and CEO Matthew A. Taylor. “Within a continually evolving and complex legal and regulatory landscape at both the state and federal levels, Duane Morris is very well-resourced with attorneys with the knowledge and relationships to respond to any type of client request.”

“Our team of former federal and state-level prosecutors is collaborative, diverse and very attuned to the current pace of civil and criminal activity. Tarsha is joining our strong group here at Duane Morris, and we are so pleased that she has selected Duane Morris for the next phase of her career,” said Sharon L. Caffrey, co-chair of Duane Morris’ Trial Practice Group. “In this current environment of increased regulatory scrutiny and internal investigations, businesses are being more proactive and solution-oriented, and we are pleased to add Tarsha to our team roster,” added Wayne A. Mack, co-chair of Duane Morris’ Trial Practice Group.

“We welcome Tarsha to our full-service Washington office,” said Patrick D. McPherson, managing partner of the firm’s Washington, D.C., office.

While at DOJ’s Fraud Section, Phillibert identified, investigated and prosecuted complex international white-collar matters, including violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), money laundering, wire fraud, healthcare fraud, and the Bank Secrecy Act. These matters involved corruption-related offenses that encompassed every significant industry sector and geographic region. Phillibert coordinated investigations with domestic regulators, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as well as law enforcement counterparts around the world.

“I’m excited to join the talented attorneys at Duane Morris and am looking forward to taking advantage of the firm’s expansive platform for this next chapter of my career,” said Phillibert.

Phillibert is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Law (J.D., 2006) and Boston University (B.A., 1998).

Global law firm Shearman & Sterling today announces that Rohan S. Weerasinghe has rejoined the firm as Of Counsel, based in New York, with a focus on client relationship development and counseling clients at the highest levels.

One of the most accomplished partners in the firm’s history, Rohan served as Global General Counsel of Citigroup, Inc. from 2012 to 2022, during which he led Citigroup’s legal function worldwide, counseled the bank’s executive officers and board of directors, and helped Citigroup navigate a period of tremendous change in the banking industry and regulatory environment. Prior to his time at Citi, Rohan led Shearman & Sterling as its Senior Partner, having spent nearly 35 years at the firm as a market-leading capital markets and corporate governance lawyer. Rohan is a graduate of Harvard College, Harvard Business School and Harvard Law School. He serves on boards and in advisory roles and is a respected senior member of the legal and financial communities.

Adam Hakki, Shearman & Sterling’s Senior Partner said: “We are delighted that Rohan is returning to Shearman & Sterling. His extraordinary combination of experience as general counsel of one of the world’s largest financial institutions and a preeminent lawyer in private practice will position him exceptionally well to offer our clients an outstanding level of counsel. Rohan’s network of relationships, built up over 40 years as leading lawyer and trusted advisor, will be invaluable to our firm and to A&O Shearman upon the closing of our groundbreaking planned merger with Allen & Overy.”

Rohan Weerasinghe said: “I am very pleased to be returning to the firm at such an exciting time, and I am eager to assist the firm’s partners in developing key client relationships and to provide advice and counsel to senior executives and general counsel worldwide. I am very proud to have spent the first 35 years of my career at Shearman & Sterling. Law is a global business, and I am particularly excited about the prospect of being part of A&O Shearman upon consummation of the planned merger.”

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (September 5, 2023) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has added Craig T. Dickinson as a shareholder in its New Haven office. Dickinson, who was a shareholder at Littler from 2011 to 2021, rejoins the firm from FordHarrison. With his addition, Littler has now brought on 12 shareholders in the past four months, including six who were previously with the firm.

“Craig is an exceptionally well-rounded attorney that employers want in their corner both before and after issues arise. It is a pleasure to welcome him back in what has been an exciting summer for the firm’s growth,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “The caliber of attorneys, both new and returning, that we’ve added to our roster recently are a testament to our strong culture and the unparalleled service we offer our clients.”

Dickinson has nearly three decades of experience assisting clients in a wide range of employment and labor law issues, with a particular emphasis on proactively identifying and mitigating legal risks. He frequently trains and advises management to help avoid missteps in the workplace that can lead to litigation, from disability accommodation and leave of absence considerations to non-compete and breach of contract matters. Dickinson’s clients span numerous industries, including healthcare, financial services, retail, restaurant and hospitality, distribution and logistics, manufacturing and technology.

“We’re thrilled to welcome back Craig to the team in New Haven,” said Lori Alexander, office managing shareholder of Littler’s New Haven office. “Craig brings years of experience litigating employment and labor disputes and a practical approach to preventing and addressing critical issues facing employers. His impressive legal practice, in combination with an extensive knowledge of – and network in – the region, will benefit our clients immensely in Connecticut and beyond.”

In addition to his advisory work, Dickinson is an experienced litigator with a long track record of success before federal and state courts and administrative agencies. He has handled discrimination, harassment and retaliation claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act, and the Family and Medical Leave Act, among others. Dickinson’s practice also covers a wide range of wage-and-hour disputes, including claims related to employee misclassification, overtime pay, tip-sharing arrangements, and class and collective actions.

“It’s a pleasure to return home to Littler and rejoin my talented colleagues in New Haven and firmwide,” said Dickinson. “Having spent a decade at the firm, I look forward to working closely with the team and leveraging Littler’s superior resources as we guide our clients through this transformative time in the workplace.”

Dickinson received his J.D. from Pace University Law School and his B.A. and M.A. from Fairfield University.

Shearman & Sterling today announced that Alejandro Gordano is rejoining the firm as a Capital Markets partner in its award-winning Latin America group, based in New York.

Alejandro further strengthens Shearman & Sterling’s Latin America group, a team that has built a stellar reputation advising many of the world’s leading corporations, financial institutions, emerging growth companies, venture capital investors, governments and state-owned enterprises across the region in industries that leverage the firm’s many practice specialties including capital markets, project finance, structured finance, M&A, venture capital, securities regulation, restructuring, litigation and arbitration.

“Alejandro is an accomplished capital markets lawyer with a keen understanding of the business and legal challenges and opportunities unique to Latin America,” said Adam Hakki, Shearman & Sterling’s Senior Partner. “His relationships with financial institutions, corporations and sovereign clients in the region will be an asset to both our Capital Markets and Project Development & Finance practices.”

Over the course of 20 years as an attorney, Alejandro has guided clients on ambitious and complex debt and equity transactions throughout Latin America. His recent work includes SEC-registered and exempt debt and equity offerings, credit facilities, restructurings, and a broad assortment of structured finance transactions, and also reflects a wide-ranging knowledge of environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) factors associated with capital market dealmaking in Latin America.

“Alejandro is a versatile attorney with a pragmatic, problem-solving approach and a talent for building long lasting client relationships and getting deals done,” said Antonia Stolper, a member of the firm’s Latin America group.

Alejandro is the third lateral partner to join the firm’s Latin America group this year. In February, Shearman & Sterling added global energy attorney Mona Dajani and tax attorney Jorge Medina as partners in the Project Development & Finance practice based in New York and the Bay Area. The firm also recently promoted Robert O’Leary to the partnership in the Project Development & Finance practice, based in New York.

“We’re absolutely delighted that Alejandro has decided to return to Shearman & Sterling at such an exciting time for the firm,” said partner Manuel Orillac of the Latin America group.

Alejandro began his U.S. legal career at Shearman & Sterling before gaining experience working for a major international bank as well as a global bio-technology company.

“I am very excited to return to Shearman & Sterling as a partner at such a transformational moment in the firm’s history,” said Alejandro. “I feel energized by the great opportunities we see in Latin America and am committed to delivering unparalleled legal advice to our clients.”

LOS ANGELES (August 8, 2023) – Barnes & Thornburg announced today that Brian L. Schall has joined the firm’s Los Angeles office as a partner in the Entertainment, Media, and Sports Practice Group. He joins from Wolf, Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP.

“We’re thrilled to be able to tap into Brian’s extensive experience providing counsel to some of the best in the music business,” said Jason Karlov, chair of Barnes & Thornburg’s Entertainment, Media and Sports Practice Group. “He has a track record of smart and original problem-solving for some of the entertainment industry’s greatest challenges, and we look forward to offering his unique industry skillset to our clients.”

Brian has advised and guided the careers of various multi-platinum musicians, songwriters, electronic artists, social content creators, music publishers, record companies, management companies, music industry executives and record producers in connection with their various legal needs. He counsels clients on virtually all aspects of the music industry, including, negotiating and drafting recording agreements; producing agreements; distribution agreements; endorsement agreements; catalogue sales agreements; music licensing agreements; merchandising agreements; touring agreements; worldwide residency agreements; management agreements; and executive employment agreements.

Additionally, Brian’s clientele includes entertainment entrepreneurs, concert promoters, chefs, social influencers, fashion designers, nightlife venues, athletes and various music-related brands.

“Brian is a fantastic addition to our office as we continue to grow our Los Angeles footprint and offerings, particularly for entertainment and media,” said Kevin D. Rising, managing partner of Barnes & Thornburg’s Los Angeles office. “We’re excited to add Brian’s knowledge of and experience in the music industry to our talented team of attorneys.”

Brian received his J.D. from Southwestern University with honors and his B.A. from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

With more than 800 attorneys and other legal professionals, Barnes & Thornburg is one of the largest law firms in the country. The firm serves clients worldwide from offices in Atlanta, Boston, California, Chicago, Delaware, Indiana, Michigan, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Philadelphia, Raleigh, Salt Lake City, South Florida, Texas and Washington, D.C. For more information, visit us online at www.btlaw.com or on Twitter @BTLawNews.

Buchalter is pleased to announce the addition of Shareholder Josh Escovedo to its Sacramento and Los Angeles offices. Josh brings a wealth of legal experience and a diverse litigation practice with an emphasis on intellectual property, real estate, business, and sports law issues.

“Josh is a seasoned attorney with a remarkable breadth of expertise, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Buchalter,” said Adam Bass, Buchalter’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “His dynamic practice and commitment to exceptional representation align perfectly with our values and commitment to client success.”

With a focus on complex litigation matters, Josh is known for handling cases involving breaches of contracts, fraud, shareholder and partnership disputes, and other business-related actions. His proficiency extends to defamation and free-speech actions, where he has established himself as a recognized authority, providing strategic counsel to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.

Josh also brings his extensive experience in intellectual property law to the firm. He regularly handles trademark and copyright matters, including litigation, transactional work, licensing, and acquisitions and sales of intellectual property. His comprehensive approach ensures that clients’ intellectual property assets are well-protected and utilized to their fullest potential.

Moreover, his sophisticated real estate practice caters to commercial property owners, developers, property managers, and builders. His expertise includes managing commercial contract and lease disputes, purchase and sale litigation, development disputes, fraud actions, mechanic’s lien claims, and providing strategic advice and counsel to his clients.

“I am delighted to join Buchalter and collaborate with its talented team of attorneys,” said Escovedo. “Buchalter’s commitment to excellence and comprehensive service offerings provide an exceptional platform to deliver top-tier counsel to our clients, and I’m especially excited about its entrepreneurial spirit.”

With this addition, Buchalter continues to strengthen its position as a leading legal service provider, delivering high-quality representation to a diverse range of clients.

“We are delighted to welcome Josh and add his extensive legal knowledge to Sacramento and the firm as a whole. His arrival aligns perfectly with our growth trajectory, and we anticipate further expansion and additional lateral hires in the near future,” commented Jim Dyer, Buchalter’s Chief Financial Officer and the Managing Shareholder of its Sacramento office.

Dallas – Blank Rome LLP announced today the opening of a new office in Dallas—the firm’s 15th office and second in Texas—with the addition of seven attorneys. Aligning with Blank Rome’s core strengths, the Dallas team is a powerhouse combination of leading corporate, real estate, and finance attorneys with national practices. The new office is located at The Crescent in Uptown.

Joining as partners are:

• Steven R. Block, Dallas Office Co-Chair and Partner, Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group, who joins from Block & McNeill, LLP;
• Jason S. Luter, Dallas Office Co-Chair and Partner, Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group, who joins from Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP;
• Mark W. Harris, Partner, Finance Group, who joins from Alston & Bird LLP;
• Justin G. Mapes, Partner, Real Estate Group, who joins from Locke Lord LLP;
• Christopher M. McNeill, Partner, Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group, who joins from Block & McNeill, LLP; and
• Michael B. Thimmig, Partner, Finance Group, who joins from Alston & Bird LLP.

Also joining is Robert C. Davidson as Associate in the Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group from Block & McNeil, LLP, along with a paralegal and an office coordinator.

“Dallas is a vibrant and thriving business community and we are thrilled to open an office here and bring together such an outstanding group of attorneys to launch our efforts,” said Grant Palmer, Blank Rome’s Chair and Managing Partner. “Establishing an office in Dallas has been a strategic priority of our firm for some time to better serve our clients who are based in or do business in Dallas and North Texas. We have been committed to entering the market with a team of leading corporate, real estate, and finance attorneys who not only have exceptional experience and reputations locally and nationally, but also fit together as a cohesive and collaborative team. We are excited about Blank Rome’s future in Dallas with our new colleagues and are looking forward to continued growth.”

“There is a remarkable alignment among the six partners who are launching Blank Rome in Dallas,” said Steven Block, Partner and Dallas Office Co-Chair. “Each of us was seeking an opportunity to expand our practices on a national platform with comprehensive service offerings to better serve our clients. And to be able to do this while opening a new office for Blank Rome in a city that we all love is an incredible opportunity. But most importantly, we were all drawn to the quality of our new colleagues throughout the firm. They are great people and top-notch attorneys who are truly committed to the success of their clients and one another. We are looking forward to collaborating with everyone at our new firm.”

“It was clear to all of us that Blank Rome fully understands and appreciates the strategic importance of Dallas to its successful national footprint, and is committed to growing in the market,” added Jason Luter, Partner and Dallas Office Co-Chair. “With so many of the nation’s leading private equity firms, family offices, commercial banks, and consumer credit companies based here, there is strong demand for high-level finance, real estate, and corporate legal counsel. Blank Rome has built an incredible reputation in these areas, and we are excited to work with our colleagues across the firm’s offices, practices, and industries to support our clients and build the office.”

The Dallas office is Blank Rome’s second location in Texas. The firm established its Houston presence in 2010. Bolstered by combinations with Abrams Scott & Bickley in 2011, Bell Ryniker & Letourneau in 2013, and Wong Cabello in 2015, the office today consists of 40 attorneys covering corporate, litigation, finance and restructuring, intellectual property, maritime, and labor and employment law. Together with Houston, the new Dallas office strengthens and diversifies the firm’s platform in Texas.

“We are very excited to welcome the new Dallas team to the firm,” said Cassandra Mott, Partner and Co-Chair of the Houston office. “They are a tremendous group of attorneys, and their experience aligns with our strengths; reinforces our corporate, finance, and real estate practices both in Texas and nationwide; and complements our strong transactional and litigation teams in Houston. Our expanded strategic presence in Texas further strengthens our capabilities in the state and the service we can provide to our clients locally and throughout the country. We look forward to working with our new colleagues.”

This is the third large group of attorneys to join Blank Rome in as many months. Just since May 1, a group of nine litigators joined the firm’s New York office from Akerman LLP, and a group of nine international trade attorneys and legal professionals joined the Washington, D.C., office from McDermott. Seven additional individual partners have joined the firm since the start of the year.

ABOUT THE DALLAS PARTNERS

Steven R. Block, Dallas Office Co-Chair and Partner, Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group

With more than 40 years of legal experience, Steven Block has an established legacy in practicing corporate and securities law, with an emphasis on mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, corporate contracts and counseling, licensing, hedge funds, project finance, and private equity. Steve’s legal advice is never given in a vacuum. Distinctively, his advice to his clients covers a much broader spectrum than the nuts-and-bolts legal issues, providing pragmatic and experienced guidance tailored to the business of the client. Steve’s creativity in finding ways to get a deal done is unparalleled, no matter the obstacles faced. Read more >>

Jason S. Luter, Dallas Office Co-Chair and Partner, Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group

Jason Luter advises clients on corporate ownership succession planning transactions involving employee stock ownership plans (“ESOPs”), including seller-financed and leveraged and non-leveraged buyouts, and provides ongoing legal counsel to ESOP-owned companies. He represents companies, business owners, financial institutions, and independent fiduciaries in their roles as sellers, lenders, and purchasers in ESOP transactions. His practice includes mergers, acquisitions, and the structuring and financing of ESOPs involving private equity. Jason also advises employers on the design and implementation of executive compensation arrangements that complement the ESOP structure and the culture inherent in an ESOP-owned company. Fortune 500 and privately held companies, independent fiduciaries, private equity groups, middle-market and emerging growth companies, and venture capital companies all turn to Jason for trusted counsel on employee benefit plan design, deferred compensation plans, cash- and equity-based incentive plans, and severance arrangements. He also advises on tax qualification, error correction, fiduciary responsibility, ESOPs, and employee benefits and executive compensation aspects of corporate transactions, in addition to litigation involving the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”). Read more >>

Mark W. Harris, Partner, Finance Group

For over 30 years, specialty finance companies, private credit funds, financial institutions, and related service providers have relied on Mark Harris to guide them in structured finance and securitization transactions involving a variety of asset classes, including residential mortgage loans, automobile loans, leases and subscriptions, consumer receivables, timeshare receivables, structured settlements, life settlements, whole businesses and other financial assets. Mark also represents specialty finance borrowers and lenders in connection with warehouse lines of credit, whole loan sales, participations, servicing and derivative transactions, strategic alliances, and corporate governance matters. Mark’s transactional experience also includes mergers and acquisitions and general corporate finance transactions, including representation of issuers and underwriters in public and private offerings of senior/subordinated debt securities and equity securities and representation of borrowers and lenders in secured and unsecured commercial credit facilities. Read more >>

Justin G. Mapes, Partner, Real Estate Group

Justin Mapes focuses his practice on real estate and commercial transactions with an emphasis on the financing, acquisition, development, management, and disposition of commercial real property, including multifamily properties, mixed-use developments, retail shopping centers, healthcare and medical office building developments, condominium projects, and hotels. He has represented major financial institutions, specialty lenders, and borrowers in numerous lending transactions, loan workouts, loan modifications, acquisition financing, mezzanine debt, remedy enforcement, and foreclosures involving a wide variety of collateral. Justin routinely guides clients through the material business and legal issues in complex transactions, including commercial leasing, joint venture negotiations, operating agreements, construction contracts, agreements with design professionals, license and management agreements, and franchise agreements. Additionally, Justin has extensive experience advising clients on matters impacting or relating to operations of hotels and resorts in a variety of matters. Read more >>

Christopher M. McNeill, Partner, Corporate, M&A, and Securities Group

Chris McNeill works with clients in a broad range of industries, including biotechnology, online gaming and social media, software and software as a service (“SAAS”) solutions, hospitality and entertainment, private equity, manufacturing, retail and distribution, logistics, construction and related services, and automotive sales and services. He assists clients at all stages of the corporate life cycle, including entity formation, corporate restructuring and expansion, securities financing (including private placements and private equity rounds), traditional commercial debt financing, and mergers and acquisitions. His goal is to get deals done effectively and efficiently, with an emphasis on providing his clients with the information they need to make informed business decisions and a focus on the business practicalities. Read more >>

Michael B. Thimmig, Partner, Finance Group

Michael Thimmig focuses his practice on structured finance, FinTech, mortgage banking, and secured lending transactions. Recently his practice has focused on structured warehouse credit facilities secured by consumers loans, small balance commercial loans, and merchant cash advances. His securitization transactions have involved various mortgage types including performing, distressed, and nonperforming mortgage loans, and real estate mortgage investment conduit (“REMIC”) and non-REMIC securitization structures. He has also been involved in a variety of FinTech bank partnership structures, including representation of FinTech platforms, bank partners, private fund purchasers and credit facility lenders, and various credit products consisting of online consumer loans, small balance commercial loans, merchant cash advances (“MCAs”), and participations in consumer loans. Read more >>

About Blank Rome

Blank Rome is an Am Law 100 firm with 15 offices and more than 680 attorneys and principals who provide comprehensive legal and advocacy services to clients operating in the United States and around the world. Our professionals have built a reputation for their leading knowledge and experience across a spectrum of industries and are recognized for their commitment to pro bono work in their communities. Since our inception in 1946, Blank Rome’s culture has been dedicated to providing top-level service to all our clients and has been rooted in the strength of our diversity and inclusion initiatives. For more information, please visit blankrome.com.

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Jaclyn (Jaci) McNally Appointed Firmwide Co-Chair of Hospitality Industry Group

CHICAGO (July 19, 2023)—Perkins Coie is pleased to announce that Real Estate & Land Use Partner Jaclyn (Jaci) McNally has been named co-chair of its top-ranked Hospitality industry group. Jaci joins long-standing co-chair Daniel Marre.

Jaci, based in the firm’s Chicago office, has extensive experience advising public and private companies, private equity funds, and lenders in all aspects of commercial real estate transactions, including real estate acquisitions and dispositions, development projects, and real estate financings. She is particularly experienced in hospitality transactions, including negotiating hotel purchase and sale agreements, franchise agreements, and hotel management agreements.

Having served as co-chair of the firm’s Hospitality group for 10 years, Daniel is a recognized leader in the space and has been involved in a number of high-profile hotel transactions over the years. His hotel clients range from small boutiques to some of the world’s largest hotels and management companies. Daniel guides them through the complexities of hotel projects and the distinct legal challenges of owning and operating a hotel.

“I have no doubt that Jaci, together with Daniel, will spearhead continued growth and increase our already strong presence in the hospitality industry,” said Kris Wilson, Perkins Coie’s firmwide chair of the national Real Estate & Land Use practice. “Jaci’s and Daniel’s depth of knowledge and experience, combined with their commitment to collaboration, make them excellent leaders for this group.”

Perkins Coie’s nationally ranked Hospitality industry group has one of the most active hotel practices in the country and includes nearly 50 lawyers—many of whom started the firm’s hospitality practice over 20 years ago and have been working on hotel deals even before the group existed. This depth of industry experience allows the group to anticipate and address the concerns of all relevant parties, from owners and franchisors to lenders and management companies.

Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high-value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients’ success. With more than 1,200 lawyers in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate, commercial litigation, intellectual property, and regulatory legal advice to a broad range of clients, including many of the world’s most innovative companies and industry leaders as well as public and not-for-profit organizations.

Polsinelli Adds Lisa Pilotto as New Chief Recruiting Officer to Lead Firm’s Next Lateral Growth Phase

Am Law 100 firm Polsinelli has welcomed Lisa Pilotto as the firm’s new Chief Recruiting Officer, joining in the Chicago office. Pilotto will lead Polsinelli’s nationwide recruiting efforts across the firm’s 22 offices, with a focus on leading the recruiting team, attracting top talent and continuing the firm’s steady growth of the past years.

“I am thrilled to welcome Lisa to Polsinelli,” said Chase Simmons, CEO & Chairman. “We are a firm with a growth mindset and a proven track record of being an exceptional platform for lateral attorneys to grow their practices and extend best-in-class services and value to their clients. Lisa will take us into the next phase of Polsinelli’s lateral growth and positioning within the market. We know our value comes from our talent, and Lisa’s industry experience, business acumen and strategic approach complement our firm culture and desire to better serve our clients as we continue on the success path we have been on for the past few years.”

Polsinelli has seen dramatic growth over the past five years, increasing attorney headcount by more than 20% and revenue by more than 80%, steadily rising through the Am Law ranks. Today, Polsinelli has more than 1,000 attorneys in 22 offices, serving their clients across the country.

“What drew me to Polsinelli was how much strategic growth the firm has accomplished over the past decade and how beneficial it has been for the firm and for clients,” Pilotto added. “I have always looked at Polsinelli as a really good example of what is possible and am excited to join and lead in a firm with such a successful growth model.”

With more than 20 years of experience in legal recruiting, Pilotto has demonstrated success in attracting top legal talent across the industry’s most competitive firms and markets. Prior to joining Polsinelli, Pilotto served as Director of Strategic Lateral Growth at a major global law firm and held different recruiting leadership roles at several other Am Law 100 firms.

About Polsinelli

Polsinelli is an Am Law 100 firm with more than 1,000 attorneys in 22 offices nationwide. Recognized as one of the top firms for excellent client service and client relationships, Polsinelli is committed to meeting our clients’ expectations of what a law firm should be. Our attorneys provide value through practical legal counsel infused with business insight, offering comprehensive corporate, transactional, litigation and regulatory services with a focus on health care, real estate, finance, technology, private equity and life sciences. Polsinelli PC, Polsinelli LLP in California, Polsinelli PC (Inc) in Florida.

As global data privacy compliance increases in scope and complexity, only about half of executives feel “very prepared” to meet regulatory requirements in the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union.

That is one of the key findings in Womble Bond Dickinson’s 2023 Global Data Privacy Law Survey Report, which draws on responses from more than 200 executives in the U.K. and the U.S., nearly half of whom are C-suite executives. The second annual report analyzes the rapidly changing data privacy landscape – including new regulations and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies – as well as corporate readiness and the differences between those operating in the U.S., U.K., and EU.

UK outpaces the US in corporate preparedness, but challenges persist on both sides of the Atlantic

As several U.S. state data privacy laws near or reach effective dates, executives with operations in the U.S. are less confident in their preparedness than in last year’s survey: only 45% say they are very prepared to comply with U.S. laws and regulations, compared with 59% in last year’s survey. With a more established General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) in the U.K., more respondents with operations on the continent feel prepared to meet these requirements. However, these respondents still feel the impact of an increasingly complex regulatory environment, with just 53% saying they are “very prepared” for compliance.

“Europe has long been ahead of the U.S. when it comes to data privacy laws, having had one in effect since 1995, along with the GDPR, which was adopted in 2016,” said Andrew Kimble, a U.K.-based partner who focuses in data protection and privacy. “Given all the steps companies need to take, employees at all levels of the organization in the U.K. tend to be aware of the GDPR and DPA.”

Yet even confident executives may not be as prepared for compliance as they think. While more than half of respondents have completed such key data privacy measures as designating an internal project manager or owner (70%) and conducting regular training (58%), only 34% have conducted data mapping and understand data practices across the organization.

“Data mapping – knowing what data you have and where it lives – is foundational for any effective data privacy and cybersecurity strategy,” said Tara Cho, partner and U.S. chair of the firm’s Privacy and Cybersecurity Team. Additionally, while many companies might implement external-facing actions, such as putting a cookie banner on their website or updating privacy policies, Cho notes that there is still a “need to build out back-end requirements to truly operationalize the compliance requirements.”

Roadblocks crop up in other areas as well. For instance, half of the respondents doing business in Europe say understanding the data held within their organizations is a challenge, while 45% cite difficulties increasing their budgets. In the U.S., nearly 60% of executives view tracking the status of legislation and the differences between state laws as a challenge, yet only 42% have completed comparisons of state privacy law frameworks.

Cross-border data transfers and cybersecurity are top of mind

In an increasingly global and digital business landscape, the ability to transfer data across borders is paramount. Despite the current regulatory uncertainty in this area, the survey data suggests that data privacy regulations can be helpful for cross-border business – especially for U.K. respondents, who are more experienced with existing standards. Forty percent of U.K. respondents (versus 35% in the U.S.) say these regulations add extra costs but are manageable, while only 10% in the U.K. (compared with 17% in the U.S.) believe regulations are a major impediment to such business.

“While cross-border data transfers remain a challenge, the findings demonstrate that many businesses are managing and even seeing value in associated regulations,” added Andrew Parsons, a U.K.-based partner who focuses on commercial disputes around information rights, privacy, and other technology-related issues. “Though much remains in flux, if and when these rules stabilize, they can have a positive long-term impact.”

When it comes to big-picture concerns around data privacy, data breaches and cybersecurity rank as the top issue (particularly among U.K. respondents). Litigation and enforcement action ranked second among U.S. respondents.

Growing adoption of biometrics, geolocation, and AI brings new opportunities – and concerns

Most respondents say their organizations use fingerprints, facial recognition, and other biometric data, including 59% of U.K. respondents and 64% in the U.S. (the latter is a five percent jump from the 2022 survey). Amid expanding use, the compliance risks have also grown with biometric privacy laws and several lawsuits in the U.S.

Regarding geolocation data, 40% of U.S. respondents (and 32% of those in the U.K.) are very concerned about privacy laws that include specific restrictions on collecting and using geolocation data for targeted marketing purposes.

The survey also finds respondents accelerating their adoption of AI technologies. More than 1 in 5 respondents (22%) started using such technology in the past year alone, and only 19% aren’t using it at all. Respondents cite a wide range of uses for AI, with 36% using the technology to generate content and another 24% planning to do so in the next year. However, respondents cite ethical concerns (45%) and legal risks (34%) as key obstacles to AI adoption.

“Whether it’s evaluating loan applications, filtering qualified candidates for a new job posting, or any number of other use cases, AI tools make complex decisions all the time,” said Ted Claypoole, a partner who leads the firm’s U.S.-based IP Transactions Team. “That’s what they’re there for. The question is, are they doing it in a way that’s improper from a societal and legal standpoint?”

The survey was completed by 205 business leaders in April and May 2023. Respondents represent 22 industries and play either a leading or supporting role in data privacy issues. Half of these respondents (51%) are U.S.-based and represent 33 states. Forty-seven percent of respondents were based in the U.K. Nearly half of the organizations surveyed stated they have offices in the EU, with 25 countries selected. To read the complete report and methodology, please click here.

“People choose Collaborative Divorce over traditional litigation when they want the divorce to be more amicable. The hallmark of a Collaborative Divorce is honesty,” writes Ron Anfuso in Collaborative Divorce California’s blog.

“Both spouses are expected to provide full disclosure about all assets, both those known to be community property and those that they claim are separate property. In rare cases during the collaborative process, one party discovers the other is hiding assets. The consequences to the dishonest person may be great.”

Read the article.

“A Chicago firm launched by a group of Big Law vets a year and a half ago has brought on a former advisor and legal counsel to Mayor Lori Lightfoot who helped negotiate an end to the city’s 14-day public schools strike in 2019,” reports David Thomas in Thomson Reuters Westlaw Today.

“Michael Frisch will lead Croke Fairchild Morgan & Beres’ government litigation and investigations practice. Like his new colleagues, Frisch has a Big Law background: He worked at Mayer Brown for seven years before joining the Commodity Futures Trading Commission in 2015.”

“His tenure at Mayer Brown led to his gig for the city of Chicago – Lightfoot, a partner at the firm, was his friend and mentor. He worked on her mayoral campaign and the transition in 2019.”

Read the article.

Eversheds Sutherland is pleased to announce the appointment of new leadership for our offices in Atlanta, Houston, New York and Washington DC. As of January 1, 2021, Partners Kristina Kopf Thomas, Marlene C. Williams, Dodie C. Kent and Susan G. Lafferty are the Partners in Charge for their respective offices. They succeed Partners Daniel J. Warren, David A. Baay, Robert E. Copps and Amish M. Shah, respectively.

Atlanta – Thomas, partner in the Real Estate Practice Group, is a commercial real estate and fund formation attorney with more than 15 years of experience working with real estate industry clients on a broad spectrum of transactions. Thomas has a strong background in the structuring and formation of private equity real estate investment funds and joint ventures for the acquisition, operation and development of real estate assets. Thomas succeeds Partner Dan Warren, who led the Atlanta office for nearly 12 years.

Houston – Williams, partner in the Litigation Practice Group, is a seasoned litigator who guides her clients through complex labor and employment matters, defending Fortune 100 companies in class action disputes and collective action litigation. With clients spanning a variety of industries, including energy, chemical, media, retail, manufacturing and healthcare services, she has served as lead counsel in bench and jury trials, in appeals in federal and state appellate courts, and in arbitrations, including cases involving multiple parties and millions of dollars in claims. Williams succeeds Partner David Baay, who held the position for the past four years.

New York – Kent, partner in the Insurance Practice Group, has more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry and advises clients on a wide range of regulatory and compliance topics. She counsels a wide range of insurance companies and industry participants on product design, implementation and administrative issues as they relate to variable, index-linked and fixed life insurance, and annuity products. Kent succeeds Partner Bob Copps who led the New York office for nearly two years.

Washington DC – Lafferty, partner in the Energy Practice Group, advises clients on an array of energy and environmental issues impacting the petroleum, biofuels and energy trading industries. Lafferty’s extensive practice covers regulatory, commercial and policy issues related to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), renewable identification number (RIN) trading, state low carbon fuel standards (LCFS), gasoline and ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) requirements, and shipping all types of commodities by rail, vessel or truck. Lafferty succeeds Partner Amish Shah, who served in the position for five years.

“A former district attorney in Mississippi’s largest county is now representing some people he once prosecuted, court documents show,” reports Beaumont Enterprise’s News.

“Robert Shuler Smith did not seek reelection last year in Hinds County. He told WLBT-TV that he sees no conflict of interest. But the current district attorney, Jody Owens, is seeking to have Smith removed from one case.”

“Smith represents Prince Johnson, who was indicted by Hinds County grand jury in 2017 on eight counts of prescription fraud.”

“Owens recently filed a motion seeking to disqualify Smith from the Johnson case, saying state law and Mississippi Ethics Commission opinions show Smith should not represent people he once tried.”

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“Prenuptial agreements get litigated all the time in probate proceedings,” warns Juan C. Antúnez  in Stokes McMillan Antúnez Martinez-Lejarza P.A.’s Blog.

“The challenge in these cases (as in all inheritance litigation) is to not let yourself get caught up in your client’s wishful thinking. Just because a certain outcome seems really unfair doesn’t mean your probate judge will (or should) rule in your favor. This may seem like an obvious point, but you’d be surprised how hard it can be to not fall into this trap in real life.”

Read the article.