Chamberlain Hrdlicka’s Stuart Clements and Leo Unzeitig earn Tax Law Board Certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

Chamberlain Hrdlicka’s Stuart Clements and Leo Unzeitig earn Tax Law Board Certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Only 182 attorneys in Texas hold Tax Law certification

HOUSTON – (January 27, 2022) Stuart Clements and Leo Unzeitig, associate attorneys in the Houston and San Antonio tax practices of Chamberlain Hrdlicka, have recently earned the Tax Law Board Certification from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS). TBLS will host an Induction Ceremony and Reception honoring the 2021 Board Certified Inductees on Friday, March 18, 2022 at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center in Austin.

“We’re proud of Leo and Stuart for achieving the Tax Law Board Certification so early in their respective careers,” said Larry Campagna, managing shareholder of Chamberlain Hrdlicka. “Our firm has been fortunate to attract and retain exceptional talent by offering up-and-coming lawyers the opportunity to grow professionally and develop their practices at an accelerated pace.”

Board certification applicants must show substantial involvement and special competence in tax law practice by providing such information as may be required by TBLS. The standards for attorney certification are established by the TBLS, with an approval of the Supreme Court of Texas. In determining special competence, TBLS considers the substance and complexity of the tasks submitted by applicants to show the required substantial involvement in the specialty area; the professional accomplishments of the attorney in the specialty area; the skill and ability of an attorney in the specialty area; the knowledge of the attorney as shown on the specialty area examination; and the character and fitness of the attorney. Certification applicants must also pass a written examination applied uniformly to all certification applicants to demonstrate sufficient knowledge, proficiency, and expertise in the specialty area to justify the representation of special competence to the legal profession and to the public. Only 182 attorneys in Texas currently hold tax law board certification, including 36 in Houston and 20 in San Antonio. Less than 7% of all Texas attorneys are board certified across all practice areas.

Stuart Clements is a senior associate in Chamberlain Hrdlicka’s Houston and San Antonio tax practice, where he advises both individual and institutional clients in federal, state, and international tax planning and controversy matters, including income, employment, transfer, and excise tax considerations. He has experience structuring and implementing a wide variety of taxable and non-taxable transactions and reorganizations, and specializes in corporate and partnership tax issues relating to captive insurance companies and other affiliated businesses. Clements is also engaged in an estate planning and administration practice, handling design and drafting of wills, trusts, and business succession planning and administration for high net-worth individuals and fiduciaries. He also has experience resolving taxpayer issues at the administrative level for taxpayers in IRS examination or collection status and has handled civil tax litigation matters, including proceedings before the United States Tax Court and United States District Court.

Clements graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of Houston. He earned his law degree, cum laude, from the University of South Carolina School of Law and received a master of laws degree in taxation from the New York University School of Law. Between 2012 and 2013, he served as the editor in chief for the ABA Real Property, Trust & Estate Law Journal. He is a member of the American Bar Association: Tax Section; the State Bar of Texas: Tax Section, where he sits on the Tax Controversy Committee and participates in the U.S. Tax Court Pro Bono Program; as well as the Houston and San Antonio Bar Associations. He was named to 2022 Best Lawyers in America “Ones to Watch”.

Leo Unzeitig is a senior associate in Chamberlain Hrdlicka’s San Antonio tax practice, where he focuses on a wide range of federal tax controversy and litigation matters at all stages before the Internal Revenue Service and federal courts. He has successfully represented clients administratively in significant cases involving worker classification issues, method of accounting issues, foreign tax credits, and general collection matters. In addition to his work with Chamberlain Hrdlicka, Unzeitig is also an adjunct professor at the University of the Incarnate Word, teaching Tax Research to graduate accounting students. He is also a Certified Public Accountant and prior to joining Chamberlain Hrdlicka he was a judicial clerk to the Honorable Juan F. Vasquez at the U.S. Tax Court in Washington D.C.

Unzeitig received a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in accounting from Trinity University. He earned his law degree, magna cum laude, from St. Mary’s University School of Law and the master of laws degree in taxation, with distinction, from Georgetown University Law Center. He is a Fellow of the San Antonio Bar Foundation, and an active member of the Federal Bar Association, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (where he sits on the Federal Tax Policy Committee), San Antonio CPA Society, American Bar Association – Tax Section, San Antonio Bar Association, and William S. Sessions American Inn of Court. He has been named to 2022 Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch and Scene in S.A., San Antonio’s Best Lawyers – Tax Litigation. He also enjoys counseling taxpayers through the Tax Court Pro Bono Program sponsored by the State Bar of Texas Tax Section.

About Chamberlain Hrdlicka
Chamberlain Hrdlicka is a diversified business law firm with offices in Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia and San Antonio. The firm represents both public and private companies, as well as individuals and family-owned businesses across the nation. The firm offers counsel in civil appeals; bankruptcy, restructuring, & creditor rights; commercial litigation; condemnation and eminent domain law; construction & real estate law; corporate, securities and finance; employee benefits & executive compensation; energy and maritime law; ERISA; estate & income tax planning & estate administration; exempt organizations; federal white collar criminal defense; immigration & international law; insurance law; intellectual property; labor & employment; paycheck protection program audits & investigations; privacy & data security; probate & fiduciary litigation; state & local tax; tax controversy; tax planning & business transactions; and technology & IP transactions. For more information, visit: www.chamberlainlaw.com.

About Texas Board of Legal Specialization
The Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) was established in 1974 by the Supreme Court of Texas. TBLS certifies lawyers and paralegals that have substantial, relevant experience in select areas of law, completed continuing legal education hours in the specialty area, and passed a rigorous exam. Consumers and organizations get the highest quality of legal services when working with Board Certified lawyers and paralegals.




Foley Strengthens Energy Offerings with Tax Partner Adam Schurle

Foley & Lardner LLP announced today that Adam Schurle has joined the firm as a partner in its Taxation Practice Group and member of the Energy Sector. He will be based out of Foley’s Milwaukee office.

Schurle brings nearly a decade of experience counseling on general and energy industry-specific tax matters. He advises clients on a variety of federal, state, and local tax issues, including entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, renewable power tax equity transactions, S corporations, and tax controversy matters. A significant portion of Schurle’s practice focuses on tax advice for cooperatives, both exempt and non-exempt, advising clients on organizational and transactional aspects of cooperative tax law, including restructuring issues and maintaining tax-exempt status.

Schurle regularly assists clients engaged in the energy industry, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy. He counsels project developers, owners, and investors on wind, solar, geothermal, municipal solid waste and biomass, and other renewable energy projects, helping these clients qualify for federal, state, and local tax incentives and implement transaction structures that maximize the value of those incentives.

“Adam’s differentiated skillset, particularly in the structuring of tax equity transactions, is an immediate value add to Foley’s expansive energy practice. His synergistic approach to dealmaking will further strengthen our ability to provide creative and innovative solutions for our clients,” said Jeff Atkin, co-chair of the firm’s Energy Sector.

“Adam’s addition is a strategic and calculated decision for Foley’s Tax Practice and our clients,” added Tim Voigtman, chair of the firm’s Taxation Practice Group. “His keen understanding of the energy industry and the tax equity investment market will further position our team as an essential resource for our clients.”

Schurle’s work in renewable energy includes analyzing state income, property, sales and use, and transfer tax issues related to renewable energy project development. Additionally, he counsels oil and gas companies in matters pertaining to cost and percentage depletion and intangible drilling costs.

“Foley’s attorneys stand at the center of the energy industry, and they have deep connections throughout the sector, allowing the firm to service clients on complex matters with practical advice,” said Schurle. “I’m thrilled to kick off the new year with this team, and I look forward to supporting our clients.”

*Schurle is admitted to practice in Nevada and Minnesota and has applied for admission to the Wisconsin Bar.

About Foley & Lardner LLP
Foley & Lardner LLP looks beyond the law to focus on the constantly evolving demands facing our clients and their industries. With approximately 1,100 lawyers in 25 offices across the United States, Mexico, Europe and Asia, Foley approaches client service by first understanding our clients’ priorities, objectives and challenges. We work hard to understand our clients’ issues and forge long-term relationships with them to help achieve successful outcomes and solve their legal issues through practical business advice and cutting-edge legal insight. Our clients view us as trusted business advisors because we understand that great legal service is only valuable if it is relevant, practical and beneficial to their businesses.




Foley Welcomes Steven Petrie as Chief Operating Officer

Foley & Lardner LLP is pleased to announce that Steven Petrie has joined the firm as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). In this role, Petrie will be responsible for the global leadership and strategic oversight of the firm’s business operations. His primary responsibilities will include designing, developing, and implementing the business operations strategy for the firm in alignment with Foley’s firmwide strategic plan. He will be based in Foley’s New York office.

Petrie brings nearly 20 years of strategy, finance, and broad operations experience in large law firm environments. He most recently served as Americas Chief Operating Officer at a Top 10 global law firm. Previous to that role, he served as Chief Strategy Officer at an AmLaw 100 firm.

“We are delighted to welcome Steve to Foley. His collaborative style and impressive business acumen make him an ideal addition to our executive team,” says Jay Rothman, Foley’s Chairman and CEO. “Steve has a proven track record of driving innovation, continuous improvement, and cooperation across large enterprises. He will be an integral part of developing and implementing key strategic initiatives to enhance the firm’s service delivery models and client offerings.”

“I’m excited to join Foley and be a part of a firm with such a talented group of people and rich history and culture of stewardship for its clients,” says Petrie. “I look forward to helping the firm continue to build its business and engagements across all sectors, practices, and industries.”

Petrie earned an MBA from the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management, and a BA from Yale University.




Barnes & Thornburg Adds Product Liability Partner Tim Hudson to Dallas Office

Barnes & Thornburg is pleased to welcome prominent litigator and trial attorney Tim Hudson to the firm’s Dallas office as a partner in the Product Liability and Mass Torts practice.

Hudson boasts a notable track record as national coordinating counsel and trial counsel for one of the nation’s largest medical device manufacturers. He has successfully tried cases to verdict in multiple states across the country. Hudson has extensive experience representing other industry leaders in product liability, commercial, and trade secret litigation.

“Year over year, our Product Liability and Mass Torts practice group has grown and further established its presence as a nationally ranked powerhouse in the field of mass tort litigation,” said Randy Brown, chair of the firm’s Litigation Department. “We’re thrilled to add Tim, an experienced trial attorney with a wealth of knowledge in this field, to our already impressive roster of drug, device, and consumer products attorneys, who defend high-stakes mass tort and individual product liability cases in state and federal courts across the country.”

In addition to counseling some of the nation’s largest medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers on product liability claims, Hudson also advises clients on litigation involving trade secrets and commercial litigation. His trade secret experience involves representation of clients in numerous industries in bet-the-company litigation, and counseling clients involving departing employees. In addition to his recognized work as an advocate, Hudson also serves as chair of the State Bar of Texas Trade Secrets Committee and is a charter member of the Texas Intellectual Property Law Foundation.

“Tim’s experience and impressive national practice is an important addition to the firm, particularly as the scope of product liability law continues to evolve,” said Mark Bayer, Dallas office managing partner. “His reputation as a top-tier advocate for companies of all sizes, from local businesses to large multinational corporations, along with his recognition as a leader in Texas legal circles, will add tremendous value to our stellar team. This is the next step in our office’s expansion to meet the needs of our clients.”

Hudson earned his J.D., magna cum laude, from Texas Tech University School of Law and his B.A. from St. Mary’s University.




Emerging Growth Company and Venture Capital Lawyer Benjamin Hron Joins Brown Rudnick’s Growing Corporate Practice as Partner

BOSTON, January 25, 2022 – Brown Rudnick LLP announced today that Benjamin (Ben) M. Hron has joined the Firm’s Boston office as a partner in the Corporate practice.

Hron has nearly 20 years of experience representing emerging growth companies in general corporate matters, debt and equity financings and securities law compliance, mergers and acquisitions, and joint ventures. Hron also represents private equity and venture capital funds, angel investors, and financial institutions in connection with the financing of public and private companies.

“Ben brings a wide range of experience that further deepens our bench of talent,” said Vince Guglielmotti, managing director of the Corporate and Capital Markets Department. “He will be a great addition to our Corporate team, which continues to grow strategically and strengthen its presence in the marketplace.”

A significant portion of Hron’s practice involves working with entrepreneurs and startups. Hron, a fixture in the Boston startup community, often gets involved when a business is still in its infancy and helps guide the founders from the formative early stages of their company’s development. In 2009, Hron co-founded VC Ready Law Group, a law firm devoted to serving early-stage companies and the investors supporting them. At Brown Rudnick, Hron reunites with Michael Cohen, his VC Ready co-founder and a practice group leader of Brown Rudnick’s Life Sciences and Emerging Growth Companies and Venture Capital practices.

“Ben’s experience working with both entrepreneurs and established companies gives him a unique perspective that will greatly benefit our clients,” said Cohen, “and our combined experience and geographic reach will significantly broaden opportunities for his relationships. I’m delighted to welcome Ben to Brown Rudnick, and look forward to practicing with him once again.”

Hron joins from McCarter & English. His arrival further advances Brown Rudnick’s strategic expansion of its Corporate practice. Neil Foster joined the London office in February 2020; Neil DiSpirito joined the D.C. office in December 2021; and earlier this month, the Firm welcomed five new partners – David Sorin, Scott Smedresman, Jared Sorin, Joseph Ferino and Matthew Uretsky – and three associates to its New York office.

“I’m excited to join Brown Rudnick and play a role in the continued expansion of its Corporate practice,” Hron said. “I’m very impressed with the Firm’s international reach and welcoming culture, and I am looking forward to working with my new colleagues.”

Hron earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School, and received his B.A. from Carleton College, magna cum laude.

About Brown Rudnick LLP

At Brown Rudnick, we combine ingenuity with experience to achieve great outcomes for our clients. 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. Our lawyers and government relations professionals work across the United States and Europe, with offices in key financial centers. Beyond the United States and Europe, we serve clients around the world.

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Hogan Lovells expands Global Regulatory practice with veteran FDA investigator and senior policy advisor

Global law firm Hogan Lovells has added Chris Middendorf to the firm’s Global Regulatory practice as a Director of Regulatory Affairs. In this role, Middendorf will assist life sciences clients with regulatory and policy issues, with a specific focus on key product quality and manufacturing issues, and related compliance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements for pharmaceuticals and biological products.

Middendorf comes to the Hogan Lovells Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology regulatory practice after more than 20 years with the FDA and senior level responsibilities involving FDA inspections, compliance, and policy development. At FDA, Middendorf conducted numerous inspections around the globe involving all aspects of current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations, developing scientific and technical expertise in sterile manufacturing and data integrity. His agency tenure included senior positions with country-wide responsibilities for China and then India, each with diplomatic status, and serving as Senior Policy Advisor and aseptic manufacturing “subject matter expert” for the Office of Manufacturing Quality, within the Office of Compliance of FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

At Hogan Lovells, Middendorf will join a legal team with years of experience advising clients on cGMP compliance and advocating for them in front of FDA and related agencies. Drawing on decades of “boots on the ground” experience, he will give companies practical advice on day-to-day compliance issues and broader strategic matters, helping companies prepare for FDA inspections and respond to agency observations. He also will be a key member of the Hogan Lovells team providing detailed due diligence for life sciences transactions.

Middendorf obtained his bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Cincinnati, and a master’s degree in animal science from Auburn University.




Moore & Van Allen Elects Largest Class of Attorneys to Firm Membership

Moore & Van Allen PLLC (MVA) is pleased to announce that 14 attorneys have been elected as members, the largest class of new members in firm history. The new class of members includes: Benjamin “Ben” J.C. Baucom, Courtenay C. Clark, Sangwan “Sonny” Ha, Kerry O. Irwin, Edward “Ed” H. Ivey, Aaron A. Marshall, Matthew “Matt” S. Morgan, Sarah H. Negus, Benjamin “Ben” A. Owens, Neil “Trey” C. Robinson III, Richard I. Simons, Jessica J. Simpson, Benjamin “Ben” M. Weadon, and Kathryn “Kate” G. Wellman.

“This is a class of outstanding attorneys. Each new member has strong experience in one of the firm’s core practice areas and is committed to serving the interests of our clients and communities.” said MVA Chair Thomas L. Mitchell. “We are proud to welcome them as new members of the firm and congratulate them on this accomplishment.”

Ben Baucom advises financial institution clients in complex domestic and cross-border senior lending transactions. He has experience representing lead arrangers, agent banks and lenders in structuring, negotiating and documenting both secured and unsecured credit facilities in syndicated, club and single-lender deals in connection with the financing of strategic acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations and general working capital needs. Ben’s practice encompasses both middle-market and investment-grade financings for public, private, and sponsor portfolio companies spanning a broad range of industries.

Courtenay Clark practices in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and general corporate law. She leads add-on acquisitions for private equity portfolio companies in the healthcare sector and has experience with management company structures as well as Patriot Act disclosures.

Sonny Ha focuses his practice on representing banks, institutional advisors, private equity groups, and corporate clients in connection with secured and unsecured lending transactions, including single-lender, club, and syndicated senior debt facilities and acquisition financing. He also has significant experience representing and advising corporate, private equity, and investment banking clients in connection with public and private domestic and multijurisdictional debt and equity securities offerings.

Kerry Irwin counsels clients from a variety of industries on numerous corporate matters, including governance, mergers and acquisitions, financing, and other transactions. She specializes in mid-market M&A transactions and commercial contracts, working directly with business teams to identify risks and develop innovative solutions.

Ed Ivey focuses his practice on swaps, derivatives, LIBOR transition, and advising clients on various types of debt and equity capital market activities, and related regulatory matters. He has experience in futures, swaps and other derivatives in a variety of asset classes, including rates, FX, equity and commodities. Ed’s clients include clearinghouses, swap dealers, regional/community banks, trading firms, private funds and end-users. In addition to negotiating ISDAs and related swap documentation, Ed utilizes his experience to enhance financing through structuring debt, equity, and hedging activities, or present alternative financing arrangements that can lower costs and risks to his clients.

Aaron Marshall focuses his practice on securitization and structured finance law. Aaron regularly represents issuers and placement agents in asset-backed securitizations and other structured finance transactions.

Matt Morgan advises banks, funds and other financial institutions in connection with debt transactions, from more standard loans backed by traditional security packages to special situations opportunities with more nuanced structures, from the context of his years of experience in the European credit trading and direct lending markets. He also advises on loan workouts and restructurings and the financing opportunities associated with such situations, as well as secondary loan trading documentation from both a buy-side and sell-side perspective.

Sarah Negus concentrates her practice in all areas of employment law and counsels employers on a wide range of topics including policies and procedures, personnel decisions, and other workplace challenges. Sarah also regularly litigates employment related disputes in state and federal courts and before administrative agencies including discrimination and retaliation claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as state and federal wage and hour claims, trade secret matters, and noncompetition agreement enforcement actions.

Ben Owens focuses his practice on the representation of financial institutions and companies in a wide variety of financing transactions. Ben regularly advises on the structuring, negotiation and documentation of secured and unsecured syndicated, club and bilateral senior credit facilities. Additionally, Ben represents private credit funds with non-dilutive capital investments, with a particular focus on the healthcare industry.

Trey Robinson advises and assists clients in connection with general corporate and commercial real estate matters and the negotiation of supply, distribution, service, purchase, and other commercial agreements. He also leads MVA’s Sports Law practice and has been certified as a contract advisor by the National Football League Players Association since 2013. Robinson works with athlete clients and assists them with a variety of matters including the negotiation of player contracts and sponsorship agreements.

Richard Simons focuses his practice on commercial real estate, regularly representing developers, investors, landlords, and tenants in complex commercial real estate transactions. He has experience with acquisitions, dispositions, financing, joint venture formation, large-scale office, industrial and retail leasing, and advising on real estate components of mergers and acquisitions.

Jessica Simpson concentrates her practice on the corporate and regulatory aspects of healthcare law, representing hospitals and healthcare systems in acquisitions and joint ventures, negotiating physician and other professional service agreements, and assisting in general corporate governance matters. She also works with physicians and physician groups in both the buying and selling of practices, the preparation of physician employment agreements, and routine contractual matters.

Ben Weadon advises private equity firms and their portfolio companies located across the country on leveraged buyouts, growth equity investments, merger and acquisition transactions, and general corporate matters. He has advised on deals in various industries, including software, semiconductor, telecommunications, and fleet management, and helped lead the biggest U.S. leverage buyout announced in 2015.

Kate Wellman advises and assists clients with government and internal investigations and regulatory compliance issues. She has represented financial institutions in inquiries involving federal and international authorities and conducted internal investigations for clients across a broad range of industries. Her regulatory compliance experience includes advising institutions on requirements under a variety of laws and regulations, including the Bank Holding Company Act, Commodity Exchange Act, Dodd-Frank Act, and federal securities laws.

About Moore & Van Allen

Moore & Van Allen PLLC (www.mvalaw.com), founded in 1945, has nearly 400 attorneys serving clients in over 75 areas of focus. The attorneys at Moore & Van Allen provide sophisticated legal services within nationally recognized Corporate, Financial Services, Litigation, Intellectual Property, Bankruptcy, and Commercial Real Estate law practices for international banks and financial services companies, domestic and global manufacturers, retailers, individuals, and healthcare and technology organizations. The firm is ranked in the prestigious “Am Law Global 200” list, and U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers have recognized Moore & Van Allen in their 2022 “Best Law Firms” rankings, both regionally and nationally.




Steptoe Continues Expansion of Investigations & White-Collar Defense Group in California with Addition of Jonathan Baum

(January 27, 2022, San Francisco, CA) – Steptoe & Johnson LLP is pleased to announce that Jonathan Baum has joined the firm’s Investigations & White-Collar Defense Group as a partner based in the in San Francisco office.

Baum represents individuals and companies in complex criminal and civil proceedings in federal and state court, as well as in investigations by government enforcement authorities. His practice encompasses a range of different issues, including bank and wire fraud, money laundering, bribery, and economic espionage. Baum has represented senior employees of technology and life sciences companies in various government investigations.
Prior to his legal career, Jonathan worked as a speechwriter and consultant to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the ONE Campaign, the organization founded by U2 singer Bono to advocate for increased aid to Africa. He has written speeches for three US presidents, several US Senators, and prominent philanthropists and business leaders.
“Jonathan draws on a deep, nuanced understanding of government investigations in his work with clients, especially life sciences and technology clients, and we couldn’t be happier to have him on board,” said Gwen Renigar, Steptoe Chair. “He’s a sterling addition to an already first-class group of lawyers handling civil and criminal defense matters for clients.”
Baum added: “Steptoe has built an exceptional investigations and white-collar defense group. I’m excited to be a part of that team and to continue growing my practice here in the years to come.”
Steptoe’s Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice has represented some of the largest public and private companies in the world in major government and internal investigations. Regarded as one of the best white-collar practices in the United States, the team has garnered many accolades, including recognition by both Chambers USA and The Legal 500 as a top-ranked practice in this field. The group was also named The National Law Journal’s “Washington Litigation Department of the Year in White-Collar Crime” in 2014, 2017, and 2018, and has received Law360’s “Practice Group of the Year in White-Collar” award three times. For the past six years, Global Investigations Review has named Steptoe to its GIR 30, an independent guide to the world’s best firms for international investigations.

Jonathan earned his J.D. from UC Berkeley, where he was Articles Editor of the law review, and his M.A. in international relations from Yale, where he was the Managing Editor of the Yale Journal of International Relations. He earned his B.S. from Northwestern University.

About Steptoe

In more than 100 years of practice, Steptoe has earned an international reputation for vigorous representation of clients before governmental agencies, successful advocacy in litigation and arbitration, and creative and practical advice in structuring business transactions. Steptoe has more than 500 lawyers and other professional staff across offices in Beijing, Brussels, Chicago, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington. For more information, visit www.steptoe.com.

The diversity of the firm is a critical factor in its success. The firm’s Chair is a woman; the majority of Steptoe’s nine offices are managed by women; the majority of Steptoe’s practice groups have women as leaders; and the firm’s twelve-person elected compensation committee is headed by a woman and includes five women as members. The firm’s eight-person professional business services leadership is equally diverse, with half the c-suite made up of women, including three women of color, and other leaders who openly identify as LGBTQ+.




Bradley Earns High Score on 2022 Corporate Equality Index

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP is pleased to announce that the firm scored a 90 out of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

“We are proud of our ranking in the 2022 Corporate Equality Index,” said Partner and Director of Inclusion and Diversity George Medlock. “We strive to create a firm culture that not only affirms and includes our diverse employees but also embraces and celebrates our differences.”

Mr. Medlock and Bradley’s Inclusion and Diversity Committee, which is co-chaired by Partner Anne Marie Seibel, lead the firm’s efforts to ensure practices and policies are in place to participate in the CEI survey. The committee is tasked with identifying and implementing inclusion and diversity initiatives across all the firm’s offices, and is focused on improving recruitment, retention and advancement of diverse attorneys and supporting the firm’s resource groups in their activities.

“I am pleased to see the firm’s hard work recognized once again in the Corporate Equality Index,” said Bradley Chairman of the Board and Managing Partner Jonathan M. Skeeters. “Bradley is committed to workplace policies that allow attorneys and staff from all backgrounds and experiences to thrive. We understand that a diverse range of perspectives is key to achieving successful outcomes for our clients.”

The 2022 CEI rates employers that provide protections to over 20 million U.S. workers and an additional 18 million outside of the U.S. Companies rated in the CEI include Fortune magazine’s 500 largest publicly traded businesses, American Lawyer magazine’s top 200 revenue-grossing law firms (AmLaw 200), and hundreds of publicly and privately held mid- to large-sized businesses. The rating criteria includes non-discrimination policies across business entities; equitable benefits for LGBTQ workers and their families; and supporting an inclusive culture and corporate social responsibility.

About Bradley
Bradley combines skilled legal counsel with exceptional client service and unwavering integrity to assist a diverse range of corporate and individual clients in achieving their business goals. With offices in Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and the District of Columbia, the firm’s almost 600 lawyers represent regional, national and international clients in various industries, including banking and financial services, construction, energy, healthcare, life sciences, manufacturing, real estate, and technology, among many others.




Joshua Rosenberg Joins Venable’s Litigation Practice in Los Angeles

Joshua Rosenberg Joins Venable’s Litigation Practice in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA (January18, 2022) – Venable LLP is pleased to announce that Joshua Rosenberg has joined the firm as a partner in the Litigation Practice in the Los Angeles office.

Mr. Rosenberg handles a wide range of complex litigation matters, including breach of contract, copyright and trademark infringement, employment disputes, defamation, invasion of privacy, and general business matters.

Mr. Rosenberg has represented numerous entertainment industry clients, including studios, production companies, talent agencies, management companies, concert promoters, record labels, recording artists, actors, writers, directors, producers, studio executives, and social media influencers. He has also represented manufacturers, real estate developers, high-net-worth individuals, and nonprofit organizations.

Mitchell Evall, partner-in-charge of Venable’s Los Angeles office, said, “Josh has built an impressive practice handling high-profile cases on behalf of noteworthy individuals and companies. He will make a great addition to our roster of talented litigators, particularly in the entertainment space, and we are very excited to have him join us.”

Geoffrey R. Garinther, chair of Venable’s Litigation Division, said, “Josh’s breadth of experience will be invaluable to our clients, augmenting an already deep bench of trial lawyers in California.”

Commenting on his move to Venable, Mr. Rosenberg said, “Venable has a stellar reputation, a national presence, a prestigious client roster, and a great platform that will enable me to provide my clients with top-notch service. I am looking forward to collaborating with their acclaimed litigators as well as others within the firm.”

Mr. Rosenberg received his J.D. from Loyola Law School in 2010, his M.F.A. from the University of Southern California in 2003, and his B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania in 2001.
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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, including in California, Delaware, 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/.




31 Days to More Effective Compliance Programs – Day 28 – Pre-Acquisition Due Diligence in Mergers and Acquisitions

“A company that does not perform adequate due diligence before a merger or acquisition may face legal and business risks. Perhaps most commonly, inadequate due diligence can allow a course of bribery to continue – with all the attendant harms to a business’s profitability and reputation, as well as potential civil and criminal liability,” reports Thomas Fox in JD Supra.

“While most compliance practitioners have been long aware of the requirement in the post-acquisition context, the 2012 FCPA Guidance focused many compliance practitioners on the need to engage in”

Read the article.

 




New York state mask mandate back in effect as judge grants stay in appeal

“An appeals court judge on Tuesday granted a stay in an appeal over mask mandates in New York, keeping the rule in effect during the legal process, New York Attorney General Letitia James said,” reports in Reuters.

“A day earlier, a judge had struck down the state’s mask mandate, one week before it was due to expire. The state attorney general had filed a motion to stay the ruling in an attempt to put it on hold while the state filed a formal appeal.”

Read the article.

 




Top 20 Biglaw Firm Isn’t Matching Associate Salary Increases (Yet)

“For the second time in less than a year, cash compensation in Biglaw is increasing. Eager to attract and retain associates during this hot lateral market, many firms have already adopted the new salary scale set by Milbank just last week,” reports Staci Zaretsky in Above The Law.

“It’s still early in the cycle, but with salaries now ranging from $215,000 to $385,000, we suspected that some firms would wait for compensation leaders like Cravath and Davis Polk to make their own announcements prior to making a move, while other firms would simply not be able to match what the market would bear,”

Read the article.

 




This Biglaw Firm Is Handing Out Up To $25K To Former Lawyers Who Refer New Associates

“They’re our best ambassadors. Many times when you do use vendors you have to teach them about your culture,” reports Staci Zaretsky in Above The Law.

Geline Midouin, Shearman & Sterling’s chief people officer, speaking highly of the firm’s former lawyers, who are now being rewarded with cash for referring potential new hires. According to a report from Reuters, Shearman will pay $25,000 for a successful placement of associates or counsel with at least one year of experience, $2,500 for salaried business services professionals, and $1,000 for hourly staff,”

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Newly proposed SC law would make it a crime to ask about vaccine status

“A newly proposed law in the South Carolina Statehouse would make it a criminal offense for your employer – or anyone – to ask about your vaccination status. Under the new proposed law, even just asking if someone is vaccinated could be considered a misdemeanor crime. It’s something those who are for it are calling a “don’t ask” bill” reports MATT KAUFAX in Fox Carolina.

“The government has no place in making you or telling you to take the vaccination, or threatening your livelihood if you don’t,” said Upstate representative William “Bill“ Chumley (R, District 35), one of the co-sponsors of the bill. House bill H.4848 now heads to committee after being filed just days ago. It states: “…any representative of a public, private, or nonprofit entity…who inquires about Covid-19 vaccination status…must be fined not more than $14,000 or imprisoned not more than one year.

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Biglaw Salary Hike Extends to One of the Largest Firms in the World

“The march of Biglaw salary matches continues. Following Milbank’s decision to up associate base salaries, firms have started to join the party with raises here and there. Moments ago, one of the largest firms in the world opted to join the prevailing scale. And with over 4,000 attorneys at this point and,” reports Joe Patrice in Above The Law.

“Remember everyone, We depend on your tips to stay on top of this stuff. So when your firm matches. Please include the memo if available. You can take a photo of the memo and send it via text or email if you don’t want to forward the original PDF or Word file. And if you’d like to sign up for ATL’s Bonus Alerts which is the alert list we’ll also use,”

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DISQO Names David Squellati General Counsel

“DISQO announced today that David Squellati joined the company as General Counsel, reporting to Armen Adjemian, Co-Founder and CEO. As the leader of DISQO’s legal organization, he will work with all other teams across the organization to help ensure that DISQO’s platform, which enables,” reports PR Newswire in their blog.

“DISQO is in hyper-growth mode as more brands discover the power of our platform to help them better understand people and behaviors in their markets,” said Adjemian. “To support the business, we are building a world-class legal team that holds transparency as a guiding principle. Dave shares our vision and will be the legal counselor,”

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$4.35M Excellus Breach Lawsuit Settlement Requires Data Retention, Security Overhaul

“A proposed settlement has been reached in a class-action data breach lawsuit against Excellus Health Plan, affiliate companies, and Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, which would result in millions of dollars in injunctive relief and require the insurer to make numerous improvements to its security program,” reports Jessica Davis in SC Media.

“The class-action lawsuit involves 14 proposed cases that call into question Excellus’ security program, as well as delays with its notification and communication gaps to fully explain risks the incident posed to plan members. The settlement stems from a 2015 breach that impacted 10.5 million people, which Excellus did not discover until 18,”

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Robert Indiana’s Estate will Receive More than $2 Million in Legal Settlement

“Over $2 million will be paid to the charity established by late artist Robert Indiana through a settlement between Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey and the personal representative of the artist’s estate over excessive legal fees. The attorney general sued the representative James Brannan in 2020,” reports Lauren Abbate in Bangor Daily News.

“Claiming he overpaid himself and several law firms during the course of extensive litigation that the estate was battling following Indiana’s death in 2018. On Monday, the attorney general’s office announced that it has reached a resolution of all claims against Brannan and the four firms. Since the sole benefactor of Indiana’s estate,”

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Energy Efficiency Ratings Aren’t Actually Predicting Energy Efficiency

“There’s a secret dogging British buildings with some of the most coveted environmental ratings: On paper they’re green, but scratch the surface and they’re red hot. Buildings that have received the highest rating in the U.K. an A Energy Performance Certificate use more energy than some of their peers,” reports Ryan Hesketh in Bloomberg.

“This disparity between how buildings are designed and what their actual emissions are is widespread in the U.K., according to recent findings from the Better Buildings Partnership, which analyzed 2020 self-reported energy data provided for more than 1,100 commercial properties. It found that commercial buildings regularly use more energy,”

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