BOSTON, July 31, 2023 – Brown Rudnick announced today that John C. Cushing has joined its Boston office as a partner in the Corporate practice.

Cushing brings over 20 years of experience in advising public and private companies, entrepreneurs, family offices, business owners and C-suite executives. His practice focuses on corporate and securities law, including mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital financing, business planning, entity selection and formation, joint ventures and strategic alliances, private placements and public offerings of debt and equity securities, software and technology licensing, SEC compliance, corporate governance, recapitalizations, executive compensation and general corporate matters.

“John is a very talented and highly versatile lawyer who is an ideal fit with our growth strategy for the Firm’s areas of focus, including technology and life sciences,” said Mark Dorff, managing director of the Firm’s Corporate & Capital Markets Department. “Our clients will greatly benefit from John’s depth and breadth of experience.”

Cushing represents clients in a variety of industries, including medical transportation, product distribution, alternative energy, consumer products, digital and print media, high technology, e-commerce and e-solutions, software development and information technology, life sciences, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and professional and financial services.
Cushing previously was a director at Goulston & Storrs. Prior to working in private practice, Cushing gained experience in finance and operations as divisional controller and corporate cost and budget manager at The Timberland Company and in various positions at Lockheed-Sanders Inc.

“Brown Rudnick has built a tremendous corporate platform around talent, innovation and collaboration,” Cushing said. “As I embark on this new chapter of my career, I look forward to working with my new colleagues to help my clients achieve their business and financial goals.”

Cushing received a J.D. from Fordham University School of Law, an MBA from Boston University Graduate School of Business and a B.A. from St. Anselm College.

About Brown Rudnick LLP

Brown Rudnick is an international law firm that serves clients around the world from offices in key financial centers in the United States and the United Kingdom. We combine ingenuity with experience to achieve great outcomes for our clients in high-stakes litigation and complex business transactions. We deliver partner-driven service; we incentivize our lawyers to collaborate in the client’s best interest; and we put excellence before scale, focusing on industry-driven, client-facing practices where we are recognized leaders.

Accomplished IP Litigator Philip Sheng Joins Venable’s San Francisco Office

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San Francisco, CA (July 26, 2023) – Venable LLP is pleased to announce that Philip Sheng has joined the firm as a partner in the Intellectual Property Litigation – Technology Group in the San Francisco office. Mr. Sheng specializes in complex intellectual property disputes and has represented clients before the International Trade Commission, federal district and appellate courts, and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Mr. Sheng has extensive experience in matters related to telecommunications, semiconductor integrated circuits, smartphone and tablet displays, as well as life sciences and pharmaceuticals. Earlier in his career, he served as a law clerk to Chief Judge Randall R. Rader of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

Michael Sandonato, a co-chair of the IP Litigation – Technology Group, said, “Philip’s extensive technical and courtroom experience will be a valuable addition to our IP team. We look forward to integrating him into the firm and seeing our clients benefit from his knowledge.”

“Philip has a strong reputation as a high-stakes IP litigator. I am excited to see him fortify Venable’s IP strength in Northern California as he continues to develop new opportunities as part of our team of talented and diverse attorneys here in the Bay Area,” said Jim Nelson, partner-in-charge of the firm’s San Francisco office.

Commenting on his move to Venable, Mr. Sheng said, “Venable is well known for its IP litigation work and has a stellar reputation in the industry. I look forward to further establishing its IP litigation presence in the Bay Area.”

Mr. Sheng received his J.D from Brigham Young University, and his B.A. in human biology from Stanford University.

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Venable LLP is an American Lawyer Global 100 law firm headquartered in Washington, DC that serves as primary counsel to a worldwide clientele of large and mid-sized organizations, nonprofits, high-net-worth entrepreneurs, and other individuals. With more than 850 professionals across the country, in California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, New York, Virginia, and Washington, DC, the firm strategically advances its clients’ objectives in the United States and around the globe. Venable advises clients on a broad range of business and regulatory law, legislative affairs, complex litigation, and the full range of intellectual property disciplines. For more information, please visit https://www.venable.com/.

Katten announced today that Miriam K. Harwood has joined the New York office as a partner and chair of the firm’s new International Arbitration practice.

“Miriam is a formidable attorney, with decades of experience representing clients in international disputes involving complex, high-stakes claims,” said Wendy E. Cohen, managing partner of the New York office. “With her globally respected reputation and proven track record of success, Miriam is an exceptional leader who will focus on this high-profile practice at Katten, complementing its industry-leading practices across jurisdictions.”

Harwood has extensive experience advising clients in a wide range of disputes involving cross-border commercial relationships and investments around the world. She has been recognized as a leader in international dispute resolution by Chambers Global, Chambers USA, Legal 500 USA, Who’s Who Legal, Benchmark Litigation and many other industry publications.

She has served as lead counsel in international arbitrations at the World Bank’s International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC), the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague, and under the rules of the United Nations Commission on International Trade and Law (UNCITRAL).

Harwood also has broad experience in commercial litigation in US courts, including contract disputes, bankruptcy, intellectual property, securities fraud, and matters involving international law, sovereign immunity and enforcement of arbitral awards.

Harwood is well known for her work in investor-State treaty arbitrations, as well as international commercial arbitrations, in cases involving government regulations, construction and infrastructure projects, telecommunications, oil and gas projects, renewable energy and mining. Over the course of her career, she has represented clients in dozens of international arbitrations, including 10 sovereign states.

Most recently, she achieved two major victories this year, for the Republic of Croatia in May and for Turkmenistan in June, serving as lead counsel representing the states in ICSID arbitrations involving disputes in the telecommunications and real estate sectors. In both cases, the tribunals dismissed all claims against her clients, and ordered the claimants to pay the costs of the arbitrations. The Turkmenistan case involved USD $2 billion in claims by a Russian telecom company, which were dismissed on the merits after a two-week evidentiary hearing in Switzerland in 2022.

“I am excited to launch the International Arbitration practice at Katten,” said Harwood. “Katten’s clients in the US and around the world will be well-served by strengthening the firm’s capabilities to advise them in international disputes. It is an honor to lead the firm in this challenging area of the law and to continue and expand my practice at Katten.”

A thought leader on international law and arbitration, Harwood has been a featured speaker at dozens of professional conferences and industry events around the globe. She has advised states on investment treaties and domestic investment laws, and taught courses on international law and arbitration, including at Columbia Law School’s Executive Training Program for Government Officials. She was appointed to the prestigious ICSID Panel of Arbitrators in 2020. She also serves on the board of directors of the New York International Arbitration Center and the advisory board of The American Review of International Arbitration.

Katten’s newly formed International Arbitration practice builds on its strength in dispute resolution for clients engaged in cross-border transactions and investments around the world. Katten attorneys have represented clients in international arbitrations relating to the licensing and marketing of pharmaceutical products, production and distribution of motion pictures, major construction and infrastructure projects, commercial real estate development, mining, oilfield operations and gas supply contracts, among others.

Before joining Katten, Harwood served as partner and co-head of the Investment Arbitration practice at an AmLaw 100 firm, and she was previously a partner in the International Arbitration group at an AmLaw 200 firm.

Katten is a full-service law firm with approximately 700 attorneys in locations across the United States and in London and Shanghai. Clients seeking sophisticated, high-value legal services turn to Katten for counsel locally, nationally and internationally. The firm’s core areas of practice include corporate, financial markets and funds, insolvency and restructuring, intellectual property, litigation, real estate, structured finance and securitization, transactional tax planning, private credit and private wealth. Katten represents public and private companies in numerous industries, as well as a number of government and nonprofit organizations and individuals. For more information, visit katten.com.

(July 26, 2023) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, is proud to announce that shareholders Janell Ahnert (Birmingham), Jeff Nowak (Chicago) and Michael Royal (Dallas) have been elected as fellows in the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers’ (CLEL) 2023 class. Ahnert, Nowak and Royal will be inducted at this year’s annual installation of fellows during the ABA Labor and Employment Law Section’s CLE Conference in Seattle on November 11, 2023.

“It is an honor to have Janell, Jeff and Michael join the group of Littler attorneys who serve as fellows in this distinguished organization,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “Each of them continually demonstrates the leadership qualities, professionalism and exceptional client service the college requires of its fellows. On behalf of the firm, I congratulate them on this merited distinction.”

The CLEL is a nonprofit professional association honoring leading lawyers nationwide in the practice of labor and employment law. Fellows are recognized as prominent members of the labor and employment community who promote achievement, advancement and excellence in the practice. Election as a fellow is the highest recognition by one’s colleagues of sustained outstanding performance in the profession and a demonstration of integrity, dedication and skill.

Janell Ahnert’s practice encompasses all facets of employment law, specifically in representation of management in both employment counseling and litigation. With licenses held in four states, she is able to serve her client’s needs in various legal forums, while handling a variety of employment law matters in state and federal courts. She has first-chair trial and arbitration experience, successfully defending statutory employment claims on behalf of employers. Ahnert also has over a decade of experience defending financial services clients in employment matters pending before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). In this area, she represents broker-dealers and other financial services clients in FINRA industry disputes across the country.

In addition to being a top-notch advocate, Ahnert is also a respected mediator. She is known for being able to combine empathetic listening with realistic cases and evaluate damages based on her extensive federal court litigation experience. Ahnert earned her J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and her B.A., cum laude, from the University of South Alabama.

Jeff Nowak has decades of experience advising and litigating on behalf of employers on a wide range of complex employment law matters, so they can run the most profitable business and efficient operations without being side-tracked by discrimination claims, strikes or other workplace issues. He is a recognized leader on Family and Medical Leave Act and Americans with Disabilities Act issues, helping employers develop comprehensive strategies to achieve compliance with employee leave and accommodation issues.

Additionally, Nowak is co-chair of Littler’s Leaves of Absence and Disability Accommodation practice group and is the author of the highly regarded FMLA Insights blog, which has earned him entry into the ABA Journal’s Blogger Hall of Fame. Nowak earned his J.D., cum laude, from Indiana University Maurer School of Law and his B.A. from Indiana University.

Michael P. Royal has built a notable reputation over the last 30 years as a zealous advocate on behalf of regional, national and international clients in multiparty, complex and class action litigation matters. On behalf of employers, he handles matters involving allegations of breach of post-employment covenants, misappropriation of trade secrets, tortious interference with contracts, wage and hour violations, wrongful discharge, whistleblowing and retaliation, harassment and discrimination, and other employment-related torts.

Royal is a core member of Littler’s International Employment Law, Wage and Hour, and Contingent Workforce practice groups, and serves as the Texas coordinator and liaison for the firm’s Workplace Policy Institute. He is a frequent writer, commentator and lecturer on workplace issues before numerous organizations, such as the American Bar Association, International Bar Association, National CLE Conference, State Bar of Texas and the Employment Lawyers Association. Royal earned his J.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Law and his B.A. from the University of Oklahoma.

About Littler

With more than 1,700 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow. For more information, visit www.littler.com.

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Milwaukee — The national law firm of Quarles & Brady LLP announced today that Robert Browning, a business law attorney who has advised clients on complex tax issues for almost 25 years, has joined the firm as a partner in the Business Law Practice Group.

Working with individual and corporate clients of all sizes, Browning counsels them on the full spectrum of federal, state, local and international tax matters. Issues he advises on include tax provisions in asset acquisitions, stock acquisitions, transfers of LLC membership interests and overall deal structure. His clients include emerging businesses, real estate investors and developers, municipalities and other organizations dealing with tax-exempt bond issuances, and high-net-worth individuals and families.

Browning regularly represents clients before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and state taxing authorities, and in U.S. Tax Court. Admitted in California, he will help support the needs of the firm’s growing client base in the state.

“Quarles is a great fit for me for several reasons,” said Browning. “The firm is widely respected for its track record of sustained growth, which is driven by its excellent culture and values. In addition, their top-notch people and practitioners across the country and across practices create opportunities to strengthen client relationships. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the Quarles success story.”

Named in 2019 by St. Louis Small Business Monthly as one of the “Top 100 St. Louisans to Know to Succeed in Business,” Browning received his B.A. from the University of Utah, his J.D. from Pepperdine University and his LL.M. in taxation from Georgetown University Law Center.

“Rob has a broad and deep skillset that makes him a valuable addition to our firm,” said Will Schultz, national chair of the Quarles Business Law Group. “Not only can he provide M&A and general tax advice to our corporate clients, but he also has specific experience in areas such as historic, renewable energy and low-income housing tax credits; real estate investment trusts (REIT); cross-border transactions; and tax-exempt bond issuances.”

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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FORMER EEOC CHIEF COUNSEL AND AI PRO JOINS LITTLER IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 24, 2023) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, is pleased to announce that Bradford J. Kelley has joined the firm as a shareholder in the Washington, D.C., office. Kelley was previously Chief Counsel to Commissioner Keith Sonderling at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Kelley, who counseled Commissioner Sonderling on federal employment anti-discrimination laws and the EEOC’s Artificial Intelligence and Algorithmic Fairness Initiative, has extensive experience with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. Prior to joining the EEOC, Kelley was a Senior Policy Advisor with the Wage and Hour Division (WHD) of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), where he provided policy and legal advice to the WHD Administrator regarding the administration, interpretation and enforcement of the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and wage laws affecting government contractors.

“Brad has established himself as a preeminent policy voice in D.C., working at the leading edge of everything from AI and anti-discrimination laws to critical wage and hour issues and more,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “His guidance will be invaluable to our clients, both from a regulatory compliance standpoint and in understanding how AI is impacting many facets of the workplace and employment law.”

In 2022, Kelley received the EEOC Chair’s Circle of Excellence Award, one of the highest honors conferred within the Commission. A former U.S. Army infantry and intelligence officer and Iraq War veteran, Kelley is also well-versed in the legal obligations of employers under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), including complicated military leave issues.

“Whether it’s the growing adoption of AI and automation, pending DOL rules that would significantly impact wage and hour compliance, or new items on the EEOC’s agenda, it has never been more important for employers to have a voice in workplace policy,” said Michael Lotito, shareholder and co-chair of the Workplace Policy Institute® (WPI™), Littler’s government affairs and advocacy arm. “Brad’s tenure at the EEOC and DOL, along with his deep technical knowledge, make him ideally positioned to advocate for the interests of employers as policies take shape around these critical workplace issues.”

While at the EEOC, Kelley worked to ensure that AI and other new tools used in employment decision-making comply with the federal laws that the EEOC enforces. He has published numerous law review articles about the use of AI in the workplace, including in the Stanford Law & Policy Review, the University of Miami Law Review, and the North Carolina Journal of Law & Technology. Kelley also speaks nationally on these emerging issues.

“As Littler’s own research has shown, AI is increasingly being used by busy HR teams to guide decision-making and bolster efficiency. At the same time, the evolving legislative landscape means employers must navigate a patchwork of shifting compliance requirements,” said Marko Mrkonich, Littler shareholder who helps lead the firm’s efforts to advise on AI in human resource decisions. “Brad is a recognized thought leader in this space and our clients will undoubtedly benefit from his sharp counsel on these increasingly important issues.”

Prior to serving in government, Kelley was an attorney in private practice and worked with employers to resolve disputes and achieve business goals through litigation, arbitration, mediation and strategic counseling. Before entering private practice, he was a judicial clerk for a federal district court judge.

“I’ve long been impressed by the caliber of Littler attorneys, the firm’s deep relationships and strong reputation in D.C., and their industry-leading global platform,” said Kelley. “Not only is Littler known for offering a full range of services in the workplace policy arena, but the firm has really differentiated itself in the AI space, having been at the forefront of studying AI’s impact on business and developing content that helps drive and direct the evolution of the industry.”

Kelley received his J.D., Order of the Coif and magna cum laude, from Louisiana State University Law Center. He earned a triple major and a minor and graduated with Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude honors from Louisiana State University. Kelley has also served as an adjunct law professor teaching employment discrimination and has been selected to serve on Law360’s Employment Discrimination Editorial Board since 2022.

About Littler

With more than 1,700 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.

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.

Data protection is a critical issue for all organisations operating in the digital era. And it’s something GCs play an integral role in protecting. Your focus on business risk as much as legal risk, and unique position as chief problem solver, means you need to be well informed about ongoing legal developments and collaborate with multiple departments in a company.

While privacy compliance isn’t just a legal issue and should involve the whole company, it’s something GCs are often expected to lead on, ensuring procedures are in lockstep with any applicable laws and helping to anticipate and mitigate any damage when or if a data breach occurs. And with a recent survey revealing over half of businesses suffered a data breach in the last 24 months, the odds of a data breach occurring under your watch are shortening.

Do’s and Don’ts For General Counsel Privacy

The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) 2023 Chief Legal Officers Survey, which surveyed almost 900 chief legal officers (CLOs) from 35 countries, found cybersecurity, regulation and compliance, and data privacy are seen as the three most important issues facing CLOs today. More than two thirds expect the volume of privacy related regulatory enforcement to increase in 2023.

As a GC, you know it’s a busy job, with multiple priorities jostling for time and budget. But it is possible to get on top of privacy, and build a culture of ongoing compliance within your organisation. Here’s how:

1. Don’t put it off

You probably did a little data protection work a few years ago. You know that it is out of date. You know it needs taking care of. Don’t put it off. The longer you put it off, the worse it will get and the more you’ll worry about it. There are easy solutions that can put your mind at ease. Take some time to find the right solution for you and your organisation so that you minimise the risk of that embarrassing data breach which you know will be way more work and stress than putting a simple privacy management programme in place.

2. Don’t worry that you’re not an expert

You’re probably not a data protection expert. That is absolutely fine, you don’t need to be. And it doesn’t mean that you have to pay somebody else to be the expert. Data protection is not meant to need lawyers and consultants to get it done. All you need is a good plan and to set aside some time each month to tick off the privacy tasks that need taking care of.

3. Don’t let perfect get in the way of good

Lawyers love perfection. But as the old adage goes, ‘don’t let perfect get in the way of good’. Every organisation has its own particular privacy problem that it doesn’t know how to solve. It may be how to map complicated data flows; it may be its use of online advertising; it may be taming a product management team or a marketing team. Don’t let that troublesome problem get in the way of fixing all of the other things you can take care of more easily, such as training your staff, evaluating your security and making sure that your organisation is transparent about the ways in which it uses personal data. There is no shame in leaving some of the hard stuff until later.

4. Do set aside some budget

Don’t worry about the expense of getting privacy sorted – explain the risks and justify the value of what you need. We understand that the business is probably paying you a lot of money to sort all of the legal stuff. You may or may not have a team of very expensive people to help you. But that doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve help. Getting privacy wrong is a risk to your business and one of your main jobs is to minimise risk. It goes without saying that the business will want to prioritise revenue and deliver great products and services, but if you get privacy wrong it will be on your head and you won’t have anyone else to blame. And getting it right costs a lot less than you think.

5. Do make it a habit for everyone

Getting privacy sorted is not a one off project, it is a programme. To keep your programme going, you’ve got to develop a habit and involve everyone in the organisation. Get a team of privacy champions together, agree on a plan and continue to chip away at that plan. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Slow and steady wins the race every time.

Wiggin Opportunity Initiative Donates $3M in Legal Services to Minority-Owned Businesses and Partners with Bloomberg L.P. To Expand the Scope of Initiative

For the third consecutive year, Wiggin and Dana LLP has provided $1 million in free legal services to women and minority-owned businesses in communities across the United States through its Wiggin Opportunity Initiative. Wiggin and Dana launched WOI in July 2020 to address the racial and economic injustices brought forward by the reckoning that followed George Floyd’s murder. The firm pledged to provide $10 million in free legal services to women and minority-owned businesses by 2030 to fuel the success of these businesses, encourage their proliferation, and increase diversity among business leaders. Having provided more than $3 million of legal services in its first three years, WOI is ahead of the firm’s schedule.

“Business ownership promotes equity,” said Tim Diemand, Wiggin and Dana’s Managing Partner. “It supports generational wealth creation, job growth, and opportunity. Helping minority business owners navigate the range of issues faced by entrepreneurs is a tangible and material way we can impact economic inequity and injustice.”

Having learned of WOI in 2022, Bloomberg L.P. approached Wiggin and Dana to assist in the initiative. Volunteers from Bloomberg’s Legal and Compliance Department’s Pro Bono Program have enabled WOI to increase its capacity to assist those in need, aligning Bloomberg’s in-house attorneys’ specific professional skills and personal interests with the challenges facing eligible entrepreneurs.

“By working in close collaboration, our organizations are able to maximize our impact on behalf of underserved business leaders,” said Kim Rutan, Head of Bloomberg’s Legal & Compliance Department’s Pro Bono Program. “The unique focus of Wiggin and Dana’s program to promote equity in business is a great match for Bloomberg’s commitment to providing pro bono expertise to help people from underserved communities, and we look forward to continuing our partnership.”

Since 2020, WOI has provided pro bono counsel to 175 startups and other businesses owned by individuals identifying as women, Black, Asian, Hispanic, LGBTQ and Iberian Peninsulan, as well as veterans, several of whom identify as members of multiple minority groups. While increasing awareness of the program has attracted more qualified venture-backable candidates seeking support, WOI also supports entrepreneurs opening or operating coffee shops, hair salons, and other similar, community-oriented small businesses. This program has also provided growth opportunities for transaction-oriented attorneys to contribute pro bono legal services and for young lawyers to own client relationships independently. 75% of Wiggin attorneys have participated in WOI, corporate attorneys and litigators alike.

Regardless, the need remains immense. The challenges and constraints faced by Black entrepreneurs, for example, lie beyond mainstream experience. According to Crunchbase, Black entrepreneurs typically receive less than 2% of all VC dollars. After the events of 2020, Black-led startups saw historic gains in VC funding in 2021. However, as economic conditions worsened and VC activity slowed, financing for Black-owned businesses plummeted 45%, compared to a 36% overall drop for all businesses.

“The typical challenges faced by startup business owners are compounded by factors related to the founder’s race, ethnicity, gender, and other classes of diversity,” said John Doroghazi, Wiggin and Dana litigation partner and WOI co-chair. “We set out to make material progress, increasing diversity among business leaders to achieve systemic and lasting change. Three years into this effort, it is clear that more law firms like Wiggin and Dana and companies like Bloomberg L.P. need to join us in this effort. As we continue towards our 10-year goal, we hope others will follow in our footsteps and we stand ready to work with them to do so.”

About Wiggin and Dana

Wiggin and Dana is a national law firm with more than 160 attorneys. We are a true partnership of highly talented, creative, and experienced lawyers dedicated to exceeding our clients’ expectations every day. With offices in Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and Palm Beach, we represent clients throughout the United States and globally on a wide range of sophisticated and complex matters. From defending the Fortune 500 in “bet-the-company” litigation to helping the next generation of inventors bring new technologies to market, we pride ourselves in offering value-driven solutions and results.

(July 19, 2023) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, is pleased to announce that attorneys in its Belgium, France, Germany, Italy and United Kingdom offices have been listed in the 2024 editions of Best Lawyers®.

The individual attorneys that were recognized include the following:

1. Belgium – Shareholder Edward Carlier
2. France – Partners Julie Béot-Rabiot, Jean-Martial Buisson and Jacques de Tonquédec
3. Germany – Partners Dr. Alexander Bartz, Jan-Ove Becker, Tobias Berdesinski, Dr. Frauke Biester-Junker, Christoph Crisolli, Jan Einhaus, Dr. Thomas Griebe, Dr. Oliver Grimm, Dr. Rajko Herrmann, Peter Hoppenstaedt, Sebastian Juli, Dr. Matthias Kast, Dennis Lüers, Philipp Meese, Dr. Antje Peterhänsel, Dr. Stefan Röhrborn, Dr. Matthias Sandmaier, Stephan Settekorn, Julia Viohl and Dr. Frank Zaumseil
4. Italy – Partner Carlo Majer
5. United Kingdom – Partners Jon Gilligan and Sophie Vanhegan

Partner Laura Jousselin and Associate Foucauld du Pradel were featured in the 2024 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in France™.

Partners Dr. Esther Dehmel, Christoph Kaul, Stephanie Koch and Dr. Torben Weihmann, and Senior Associates Tabea Frühinsfeld, Lioba Lamers, Dr. Stefanie Reiche, Luisa Rödemer and Ulrike Schulke, and Associate Sascha Gründler and Dr. Ferdinand Hultzsch were featured in the 2024 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Germany™.

Attorneys on Best Lawyers® lists are reviewed by their peers on the basis of professional experience by practice areas and geographic region.

About Littler

With more than 1,700 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow. For more information, visit www.littler.com.

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MIAMI (July 11, 2023) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, today announced the addition of four attorneys to its Miami office. Philip Marchion and D. Porpoise Evans joined this month as shareholders, while the firm recently added Kelly Peña as of counsel and Emily Selig as an associate.

“Attracting top talent continues to be a key priority for the firm and we are thrilled to welcome this impressive group of attorneys to our strong Miami team,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “Their collective experience will be of great benefit to the firm as we continue to deliver labor and employment solutions that help our clients navigate an increasingly complex legal landscape.”

“Our deep bench in Miami and Orlando, combined with Littler’s expansive global platform, uniquely position our Florida team to provide comprehensive litigation and counseling services to both local and multinational employers,” said Lori Brown, Miami office managing shareholder and a member of Littler’s Management Committee. “The skillsets of these new additions – including Phil’s role as a senior advisor to c-suite executives and boards of directors on sensitive workplace issues and Porpoise’s impressive track record resolving employment disputes – further bolster the exceptional services and value we provide our clients.”

Marchion comes to Littler from VF Corporation, a global apparel and footwear company, where he most recently served as Vice President and General Counsel for Global Labor & Employment. As a seasoned litigator and accomplished legal executive, Marchion has nearly two decades of experience counseling on employment law and traditional labor relations matters – including 10 years as a senior in-house attorney for two large publicly traded companies. He has advised on a broad range of labor matters, including strategies for lawful union avoidance, collective bargaining, responding to unfair labor practice charges, union organizing campaigns, corporate campaigns and labor arbitrations. Marchion has served as lead employment law advisor on large-scale mergers and acquisitions and advised company leadership through high-profile workplace investigations. He practices before state and federal courts, the National Labor Relations Board and administrative agencies in such areas as union-related matters, discrimination cases, class action litigation and wrongful discharge cases.

“I’m excited to leverage the insights I’ve gleaned as an in-house attorney in my new role at Littler,” said Marchion. “As I contemplated a return to private practice, I was drawn to the firm’s unmatched depth of resources, strong Labor Management Relations practice and the opportunity to work with Littler’s top-notch attorneys in Miami and around the world.”

Evans advises public and private companies on an array of employment law matters, including wage and hour compliance, discrimination claims, breach of contract, leave and disability accommodation, and workplace safety. He regularly defends employers in federal and state courts, as well as before the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Florida Commission on Human Relations. Evans also counsels multinational companies operating abroad on in-market risk assessments and compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and represents Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) member firms in arbitrations. He was previously a partner with Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, P.L.

“Littler has built an impressive global platform for serving the wide-ranging needs of multinational employers, which has proven valuable given Miami’s continued rise as a global business hub,” said Evans. “I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues to serve clients on their employment-related needs in the many jurisdictions in which they operate.”

Marchion received his J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and his B.S. in business administration and human resources management from Miami University. Evans received his J.D. from the University of Miami School of Law and his A.B. from Brown University.

Peña, who was previously with Ogletree Deakins, represents public and private employers in a wide variety of matters, including discrimination claims, leave and disability accommodation, wage and hour compliance, and whistleblowing. She received her J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law and her B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley. Selig joined Littler from Franczek P.C. She received her J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and her B.B.A from Florida International University.

About Littler
With more than 1,700 labor and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what’s happening today, and what’s likely to happen tomorrow.
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Lahore, Punjab (July 18, 2023) – YODO, a prominent name in the design and development industry, proudly announces the launch of its innovative and cutting-edge tools and services, encompassing a diverse range of solutions to cater to every aspect of design and development. With a strong commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, YODO has quickly become a sought-after destination for businesses worldwide.

Addressing All Aspects of Web Design and Development

At YODO, the team takes immense pride in delivering a comprehensive suite of essential services that have garnered appreciation from clients across the globe. From Web design and Web development to SEO services (On-page and off-page) and content writing, YODO offers an all-inclusive approach to meet the diverse needs of businesses in today’s competitive landscape. Moreover, the company also excels in providing eCommerce solutions, UI/UX design, marketing services, mockups, graphic designs, landing pages, plugin development, and page speed insights, offering a one-stop destination for all design and development requirements.

YODO: A Legacy of Trust and Success

YODO boasts an impressive track record, backed by 10 years of exceptional service to clients from various industries. Drawing from a cumulative experience of 20 years, the team at YODO is adept at understanding the unique challenges faced by businesses and providing valuable services that propel their growth and success.

Satisfied Clients and Unwavering Commitment

The success of YODO lies in its dedication to client satisfaction. With a client base of over 450 happy patrons, the company has established itself as a brand that not only meets but exceeds its clients’ expectations. The team’s unwavering commitment to delivering premium-quality work has earned YODO a reputation as a reliable and trusted partner in the design and development arena.

A Team of Professionals

Behind YODO’s stellar services stands a team of over 80 professionals who collectively offer a powerhouse of talent and expertise. The team’s harmonious collaboration ensures that clients receive top-notch solutions tailored to their specific needs, all while adhering to strict timelines for on-time project delivery.

Forward-Looking Objectives

YODO has set forth clear objectives that guide its endeavors towards success:

1. Premium Quality Work: YODO is committed to delivering work of the highest standards, leaving no room for compromise on quality.
2. All Solutions Under One Roof: As a comprehensive service provider, YODO eliminates the hassle of juggling multiple vendors by offering a full spectrum of design and development services.
3. Do MORE, Pay Less: The company believes in providing unmatched value for its clients, ensuring they receive the best returns on their investments.

A Culture of Collaboration

At YODO, creativity thrives in an environment where ideas are freely exchanged, and everyone’s input is valued. The team’s dedication to meeting deadlines ensures that clients’ projects are completed on time without compromising on quality.

Fostering a Vision of Success

Yodo’s vision is rooted in a dedication to client success. The company aims to make a significant impact through its creativity and services, supporting businesses in achieving their ambitious goals.

For more information about YODO’s cutting-edge design and development services, please visit their website at https://yodo.club or contact them at info@yodo.club.

About YODO

YODO is a leading design and development company based in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. With a legacy of 10 years of exceptional service and a team of over 80 talented professionals, YODO offers a comprehensive suite of services, including Web design, Web development, SEO services (On-page and off-page), content writing, eCommerce solutions, UI/UX design, marketing services, mockups, graphic designs, landing pages, plugin development, and page speed insights. YODO’s commitment to delivering excellence and fostering client success has positioned it as a sought-after name in the industry.

Media Contact:

Usman Pervaiz

CEO, YODO

Phone: +1 7372733314

Email: usman@yodo.club

Address: Harrisonville, Missouri, United States

Barnes & Thornburg is pleased to welcome Ken Kansa to the firm’s Chicago office as partner in the Finance, Insolvency and Restructuring Department. Kansa joins the group shortly after the firm added fellow Chicago restructuring partner Aaron Gavant in June, as well as New York restructuring partner Gregory Plotko in February.

Kansa’s practice encompasses a wide variety of in-court and out-of-court restructuring matters, with particular experience representing corporate clients in financial and operational restructuring proceedings and cross-border insolvency matters. He represents public and non-public companies in Chapter 11 plans of reorganization, out-of-court debt resolutions, and strategic transactions, among other bankruptcy-related real estate, tax and corporate issues.

“With over 20 years practicing in Chicago, Ken has become a pillar in the city’s legal and bankruptcy communities,” said Michael Carrillo, managing partner of the firm’s Chicago office. “He’s a strong asset to our team and will bolster our capabilities both in Chicago and nationally.”

Kansa is a frequent speaker to professional organizations and for continuing legal education on restructuring and insolvency.

“I’m excited to welcome Ken to our growing team of restructuring attorneys,” said Mark Owens, chair of the firm’s Finance, Insolvency and Restructuring Department. “This has already been a busy year and I’m confident that Ken will further this momentum as new complexities continue to confront the structured finance space.”

Kansa earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and his B.A. from George Washington University. He also holds an M.A. from Cleveland State University, where he sits on the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Advisory Board.

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.

WASHINGTON (July 17, 2023) – Womble Bond Dickinson announced today that Carol Lee has joined the firm as a partner in the Business Litigation group. A trusted advisor for multinationals navigating U.S. legal matters relating to internal and government investigations and commercial litigation, Lee is adept at resolving regulatory issues regarding export controls, economic sanctions, Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, anti-money laundering, and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. She joins Womble from the Washington office of Clifford Chance.

This news is the latest in a string of recent strategic hires and expansion across the firm’s footprint, including the acquisition of two California-based litigation boutiques earlier this month and the addition of nearly 50 laterals in the last year.

“Carol brings significant, sophisticated experience advising global companies on the complexities of the domestic regulatory landscape, particularly those pertaining to commercial dispute resolution, government investigations, and international trade,” said Chris Jones, who leads the Business Litigation Practice Group and serves on the firm’s Global Board. “Her cultural knowledge will be tremendously valuable to clients operating in today’s global marketplace.”

Lee regularly represents prominent domestic and international clients before the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the U.S. Departments of Justice, Commerce, and Treasury. She is recognized for her industry-leading skill set concerning unique U.S. legal issues confronting companies operating in the Greater China region and Japan.

“We are delighted to welcome a lawyer of Carol’s caliber to the firm,” said Elizabeth Lee, Managing Partner of the Washington office. “In addition to expanding our bench strength in Washington, Carol’s diverse skill set and entrepreneurial spirit will play a significant role in driving synergies across several of the firm’s key markets and sectors.”

Lee earned a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, where she also served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Florence Y. Pan at the District of Columbia Superior Court (currently judge at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia). She earned an M.A. in international policy studies from Stanford University and B.A. from National Tsing Hua University.

IRVINE, Calif. (July 13, 2023) – Womble Bond Dickinson is expanding its presence in Southern California through a combination with boutique business law firm Gordinier Kang & Kim LLP. Based in Irvine and Los Angeles offices, the three-partner team includes John Kang, Patricia Cymerman, and Edward Kim. The combination reflects continued growth in the Golden State and comes on the heels of the firm’s announcement earlier this week that it was joining with San Francisco-based litigation firm Simmonds & Narita LLP.

“This combination adds to our roster in Southern California and brings high-quality and experienced lawyers who are committed and connected to the local market,” said Merrick Benn, Womble’s Vice Chair and Capital Markets Practice Group Leader. “It expands on our existing litigation practice and adds a core transactional practice that further solidifies, expands, and diversifies our bench strength in the region.”

Kang, who joins the firm’s Capital Markets group as a partner, is an experienced transactional attorney who represents private sector clients, including financial institutions, commercial purchasers and sellers, developers, and high-net-worth investors. His practice spans a broad range of commercial transactions, particularly in secured lending, project development, real estate joint venture and equity fund formation, and equity- and asset-based property acquisitions and dispositions.

“Womble’s robust, full-service platform enables us to expand both the volume and depth of services we can provide to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said Kang. “We look forward to collaborating with our new colleagues and further contributing to the firm’s growth in Southern California.”

Cymerman and Kim join the firm’s Business Litigation group as partners. Cymerman represents clients in complex business litigation, including contract, real estate, private wealth, and partnership disputes and misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition, and false advertising. Kim focuses his practice on complex business and securities litigation matters in federal and state courts, including securities class actions, shareholder derivative claims, and partnership disputes.

“A strong West Coast presence has long been an important component of the firm’s strategic commitment to building a global platform that meets the broad needs of our clients,” said Kristin Walker-Probst, Managing Partner of the Irvine and Los Angeles offices. “By joining forces, we are well positioned to expand those offerings in important innovation hubs.”

About the new lawyers:

John Kang represents private sector clients, including financial institutions, commercial purchasers and sellers, developers, and high-net-worth investors. His practice involves a broad range of commercial transactions, including purchase and sale transactions, corporate and real estate finance, capital markets, leasing, and development. With skills gained at prominent national and international law firms during the first ten years of his career, John has extensive experience in secured lending, project development, real estate joint venture and equity fund formation, and equity- and asset-based property acquisitions and dispositions.

Patricia Cymerman represents clients in complex business litigation, including contract disputes; real estate disputes involving leases, development and investment agreements, and joint ventures; misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition, and false advertising; private wealth disputes; and partnership disputes. Her experience also includes high-profile First Amendment and media law cases.

Edward Kim focuses his practice on complex business and securities litigation matters in federal and state courts, including securities class actions, shareholder derivative claims, and partnership disputes. He has successfully tried numerous cases to a final judgment or award and obtained individual jury verdicts of more than $150 million, including punitive damage awards exceeding $10 million. Additionally, he has extensive experience representing shareholders and partners of companies involving claims of breach of fiduciary duties, fraud, and self-dealing by the officers, directors, and managing partners of corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies.

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SAN FRANCISCO (July 11, 2023) – Womble Bond Dickinson announced today its combination with boutique litigation firm Simmonds & Narita LLP. The deal brings together the complex litigation practice of the San Francisco-based firm with Womble’s full-service, international capabilities. The team, comprised of partners Tomio Narita and Jeffrey Topor, counsels Leanne Yu, Nathan Searles, and Dominic Luca, and paralegal Rosana Klingerman, has extensive experience defending individual and class actions filed under a wide range of consumer protection statutes in federal and state courts in California and jurisdictions across the country against companies operating in the consumer financial services industry.

“Simmonds & Narita is a high-quality team of lawyers with a strong track record of litigation excellence,” said Chris Jones, who leads the Business Litigation Practice Group and serves on the firm’s Global Board. “The addition of their depth of talent and sophisticated skill set, including decades of experience handling class action matters, greatly enhances the dispute resolution and litigation practice for our firm.”

The team defends creditors, finance companies, debt buyers, law firms, and collection agencies against individual and class claims brought under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the California Rosenthal Act, the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act, Section 17200 of the California Business & Professions Code, and other state statutes governing credit and debt collection. They are well-versed in defending against individual and class action claims brought under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the California Consumer Credit Reporting Agencies Act (CCRAA). They also handle arbitration matters pending before JAMS and the American Arbitration Association and are regularly retained to handle cases pending before federal and state appellate courts.

“We accomplished a heck of a lot as a five-attorney law firm, and our team has built close relationships with our clients and with each other. In considering a move like this, we knew it had to be the right fit for our people and clients,” said Narita. “We immediately recognized that Womble shared our values, including a commitment to exceptional client service, and their platform will be an incredible resource with greater efficiencies and robust services for the complex litigation needs of our clients.”

Chris Mammen, who, in addition to serving as Office Managing Partner, leads the Intellectual Property Litigation Group and is a member of the firm’s Global Board, added: “We could not be more pleased with the continued growth of our San Francisco office. This combination comes on the heels of an exciting year, including our move to a new office and earlier combination with Cooper, White & Cooper, a multi-practice firm of more than two dozen legal professionals. It further strengthens our capabilities on the West Coast and expands the legal services we can offer our clients.”

With additional offices in Irvine, Los Angeles, and Silicon Valley, the firm now has over 100 legal professionals, including 54 lawyers, in California and a global platform of more than 1,000 lawyers in 31 offices.

About the new lawyers:

Tomio Narita is a trial attorney focused on defending class actions and high-risk cases filed against members of the consumer financial services industry. He has over three decades of experience representing creditors, national banks, debt buyers, finance companies, alternative lenders, collection agencies, collection law firms, and mortgage companies in cases arising under various consumer protection statutes. Tomio has also successfully defended hundreds of class and representative actions in state and federal courts and frequently handles complex business disputes.

Jeff Topor has over thirty years of experience litigating in and working for federal and state courts. Since 2000, he has concentrated his practice on complex litigation with an emphasis on defending creditors, finance companies (including fintech companies), debt buyers, debt collectors, and law firms in federal and state courts against individual and putative class claims under the FDCPA, TCPA, FCRA, corollary state Acts, and myriad other consumer protection statutes. Jeff has tried cases before juries in state and federal courts, has extensive experience in federal and California appellate courts, and has mediated and arbitrated scores of matters.

Leanne Yu focuses her practice on complex civil litigation, including defending banks and companies in individual and class actions brought under the FCRA, FDCPA, TCPA, Truth in Lending Act (TILA), and related state laws. Prior to private practice, Leanne was a Deputy Attorney General at the California Department of Justice, focusing on complex financial services litigation.

Nathan Searles is experienced in defending against individual and class action claims brought against businesses and individuals under the FDCPA, FCRA, TCPA, California Rosenthal Act, California CCRAA, and California Identity Theft Act, among others. He also assists in regulatory, employment, and privacy claims.

Dominic Luca focuses his practice on complex litigation, including consumer financial services defense litigation brought under a wide variety of federal and state laws in courts and arbitration tribunals in California and throughout the United States. He represents clients in matters arising under the FDCPA, FCRA, Rosenthal Act, and California Unfair Competition Act, as well as related federal and state law causes of action.

Adam M. Weg Joins Venable’s Commercial Litigation Practice in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles, CA (July 10, 2023) – Venable LLP is pleased to announce that Adam M. Weg has joined the firm as a partner in the Commercial Litigation Practice in the Los Angeles office.

Mr. Weg focuses his practice on complex business, real estate, antitrust, trade secrets, cross-border international arbitration disputes, and sophisticated insurance matters. He has considerable experience handling matters through all stages of civil litigation, pending in both state and federal courts, as well as in both domestic and international arbitration.

“Adam is an effective and strategic litigator who is known for getting the best possible outcome for his clients. He is a tremendous addition to our team,” said Daniel P. Hoffer, a co-chair of the Commercial Litigation California Practice Group and a co-partner-in-charge of the Los Angeles office.

“Adam’s proven track record in high-stakes litigation matters will be a great addition to our growing group of highly-skilled litigators,” said Stacie E. Tobin, a co-chair of the firm’s Litigation Division.

Commenting on his move to Venable, Mr. Weg said, “Moving to Venable will be fantastic because my clients will benefit from the firm’s robust platform, a plethora of resources, and amazing talent.”

Mr. Weg received his J.D. from the University of California Hastings College of Law (now known as UC College of the Law, San Francisco) in 2009 and his B.A. from Cornell University in 2006.

Venable LLP is an American Lawyer Global 100 law firm headquartered in Washington, DC that serves as primary counsel to a worldwide clientele of large and mid-sized organizations, nonprofits, high-net-worth entrepreneurs, and other individuals. With more than 850 professionals across the country, including in California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, New York, Virginia, and Washington, DC, the firm strategically advances its clients’ objectives in the United States and around the globe. Venable advises clients on a broad range of business and regulatory law, legislative affairs, complex litigation, and the full range of intellectual property disciplines. For more information, please visit https://www.venable.com/.