President Donald J. Trump has nominated Paul Compton, a partner in Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP’s Birmingham office, to serve as General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.

Compton currently serves as leader of the firm’s Affordable Housing and Community Development practice.

“The firm congratulates Paul Compton on his expected nomination by the President to serve as the chief legal officer of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and counsel to its Secretary, Dr. Ben Carson,” said Bradley Chairman of the Board and Managing Partner Beau Grenier. “We are tremendously proud of Paul, whose knowledge and experience in the areas of affordable housing, community development, and banking and financial services have earned him an outstanding reputation among his peers and clients.”

The Office of General Counsel (OGC) of HUD provides legal opinions, advice and services with respect to all departmental programs and activities. The General Counsel also leads the department’s efforts to enforce the Fair Housing Act and other civil rights and programmatic requirements. The OGC plays a vital role in helping HUD accomplish its mission of assuring decent and affordable housing, enabling all Americans to achieve homeownership, providing resources for communities to build strong neighborhoods, preventing homelessness, and enforcing fair housing laws.

In addition to his various Bradley practice leadership roles, Compton is a member of the firm’s Banking & Financial Services group and is Chair of the firm’s Finance Committee. He has experience in innovative commercial financing transactions, particularly those involving tax credits (federal and state Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, historic, state industrial incentive, new markets, and work opportunity) and structured finance, and in the formation and sale of regulated financial institutions (banks, insurance companies and agencies, consumer finance companies, broker/dealers and community development entities).

Compton serves as counsel for the Alabama Bankers Association, Inc., counsel of record for the Alabama Consumer Finance Association, and as general counsel for the Alabama Affordable Housing Association. He earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and his Bachelor of Science (summa cum laude) from the University of Alabama. He also attended the London School of Economics and Political Science. He is a Truman Scholar.

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Akerman LLP announced the of partner Brian Fraser in the firm’s New York office. Previously with Richards Kibbe & Orbe LLP, he joins Akerman’s Litigation Practice Group and bolsters its national team of trial lawyers dedicated to clients in the financial services sector.

“Brian is a veteran trial lawyer with an impressive track record advising international and U.S. financial institutions in antitrust, securities and other complex litigation,” said Lawrence Rochefort, chair of Akerman’s Litigation Practice Group. “His practice further strengthens our work in the financial services sector nationwide.”

In a release, the firm said:

Fraser handles complex financial litigation with an emphasis in commodities, derivatives, securities, structured products, capital markets and inter-shareholder disputes. He represents industry-leading hedge funds, fund managers, institutional investors, insurers and investment banks. He also advises manufacturing and other commercial clients in antitrust and securities class action, corporate governance, and trade secret matters. He is recognized by Chambers USA in General Commercial Litigation, and he is consecutively ranked for his financial litigation work in Benchmark Litigation, The Legal 500 and New York Super Lawyers.

Fraser joins one of the fastest-growing law firms in New York. Lateral Link revealed Akerman had the third most lateral gains in the market last year, expanding the New York office to more than 100 lawyers and business professionals. Recent additions include partner and former general tax counsel for CBS Inc. Alvan L. Bobrow, transactional tax partner Sanford Davis from Withers Bergman LLP, bankruptcy partner John Campo from Troutman Sanders and real estate transactional partner Thomas Diorio from Nixon Peabody LLP.

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Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP, an Am Law 200 firm, has bolstered its Financial Restructuring and Reorganization Practice with the addition of three attorneys. Frank J. Wright, C. Ashley Ellis and Erin C. McGee join the firm’s Dallas office.

“We are pleased to continue our growth in 2017 with the addition of this talented group of lawyers,” said Holland N. O’Neil, chair of Gardere’s board of directors and a partner in the firm’s financial restructuring and reorganization practice group. “Our Financial Restructuring and Reorganization Practice is one of the largest groups in the state of Texas and the addition of a well-respected and seasoned bankruptcy practitioner like Frank, along with his team, will further strengthen our depth and expertise in this practice area.”

In a news release, the firm said:

Wright, who joins the firm as a partner, focuses his practice primarily on corporate restructurings and strategic planning. He has a comprehensive national practice that is predominantly devoted to insolvency, reorganization, mergers and acquisitions, and related areas, as well as extensive litigation in the bankruptcy court and other federal courts. Wright has been counsel for parties involved in all facets of the bankruptcy process, including debtors, creditors, landlords, creditors’ committees, shareholders and third-party purchasers. He has represented a variety of public companies and enterprises involved in diverse areas of business, including energy, real estate, transportation, manufacturing, healthcare and telecommunications.

Ellis joins the firm as a senior attorney. She represents corporate entities in complex reorganization proceedings and has participated in related cases nationwide. She has extensive experience negotiating and drafting plans of reorganization and corresponding disclosure statements in Chapter 11 cases. Ellis is well-versed in structuring informal workouts for troubled companies, and she has also engaged in significant litigation arising under the Bankruptcy Code.

McGee, who joins the firm as a staff attorney, focuses her practice on litigation and commercial bankruptcy. She has experience in complex litigation involving securities, antitrust and patent law. She also has prior work experience with the U.S. Small Business Administration in e-discovery and commercial real estate.

“Our team has a respected reputation for assisting businesses with every aspect of the restructuring process, and the breadth of these attorneys’ expertise will be a valuable asset to our clients,” said John P. Melko, head of the firm’s Financial Restructuring and Reorganization Practice. “Their credentials complement our practice and the quality of service we provide, and we are pleased to welcome them to the firm.”

Ranked annually in Chambers USA and U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms,” Gardere’s nationally recognized Financial Restructuring and Reorganization Practice Group helps businesses throughout the U.S. and Latin America across numerous industries. The team leads financially challenged businesses through every aspect of financial restructuring, reorganization or bankruptcy, and fights for the rights of creditors involved in challenging business disputes and insolvencies – both in and out of the courtroom.

Freeborn & Peters LLP has opened its first office in Florida, located in the Tampa City Center.

The firm’s Tampa office will be led by two veteran attorneys, Lawrence “Larry” P. Ingram and Jessica Kirkwood Alley. The pair have experience in client advocacy, litigation, particularly in professional liability, third-party insurance coverage, qui tam, healthcare fraud and restrictive covenant disputes.

In a release, the firm said Freeborn’s new location also helps to address increased demand for the firm’s services in the Southeastern region of the United States, where Freeborn has existing clients. The firm also will seek to expand by assisting new clients, particularly in litigation, real estate and corporate transactions.

The release continues:

Larry Ingram joins Freeborn from Phelps Dunbar LLP where, as founder of that firm’s Tampa office, he served as both Office Managing Partner and Regional Practice Coordinator. He concentrates his trial and counseling practice in professional liability, third-party insurance coverage, qui tam, healthcare fraud and restrictive covenant disputes. Mr. Ingram joins Freeborn as a Partner of the firm and as the Tampa’s office’s Managing Partner.

“Freeborn and Peters has a superlative reputation across many areas of complex litigation. Jessica and I are glad to be joining such a strong team. We know, too, that we will be bringing our own unique strengths and experience to bear as part of the Freeborn network,” Ingram said.

The other attorney joining the firm as a Partner is Jessica Kirkwood Alley, also formerly of Phelps Dunbar LLP. Ms. Alley concentrates her practice on complex commercial litigation and focuses in the areas of professional liability, qui tam defense and third-party insurance coverage litigation. Freeborn’s dedication to putting clients first and its emphasis on living up to its core values attracted Alley to the firm.

“I am proud to be a founding partner of Freeborn’s Tampa office, and I look forward to telling the story of the firm’s success to clients in Tampa, across Florida and indeed the Southeast region of the U.S.,” Alley said. “Freeborn has so much to offer, even beyond litigation. It has extensive experience in real estate development and investment, which is well-suited to Florida. Freeborn also has repeatedly demonstrated its capacity to support midsized corporations, particularly in M&A transactions, which is of increasing importance in a growing economy.”

In addition to Ingram and Alley, Freeborn’s Tampa office includes two associate attorneys, Jason P. Stearns and Robert A. Stines, as well as several professional staff members.

Freeborn’s decision to grow its presence in the Southeast is part of a considered strategy of expansion, based on three factors: client demand, expanded capabilities and cultural fit. “Our clients are asking us to serve them in other parts of the country, and the addition of an office in Florida will dramatically increase our capabilities in the Southeast,” said Michael J. Kelly, Freeborn’s Co-Managing Partner.

“We also are adding new leaders to our litigation practice who will further grow our capabilities in areas where clients are increasingly seeking our support. We know, too, that Larry, Jessica, and the other attorneys and staff who are joining us are committed to the core values of integrity, commitment, effectiveness, teamwork and caring that are so central to our culture. We expect great things to be made possible for our clients as a result,” Kelly said.

Freeborn now has offices in Chicago, Ill.; New York, NY; Richmond, Va.; Tampa, Fla.; and Springfield, Ill.

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Hogan Lovells has launched a new global LGBT and allies network, Pride+, aimed at enhancing support for and commitment to LGBT+ individuals. The launch also marks support of the International Day Against Homophobia, Bi-phobia and Transphobia.

In a release, the firm said Pride+ will expand upon a number of existing internal LGBT networks across the firm aimed at promoting LGBT inclusion, including in the UK, U.S., Continental Europe, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Pride+ will further promote equality across all 23 countries in which Hogan Lovells operates, promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding at work, regardless of barriers outside the workplace.

The release continues:

Through Pride+ the firm aims to:

• Show global support for the LGBT+ community and to create an inclusive working culture
• Provide a safe environment for LGBT+ individuals to come out (should they wish to) and to speak openly
• Raise awareness of issues facing LGBT+ communities and people in different countries
• Effectively challenge preconceived notions and stereotypes and inappropriate behavior or language.

A key part of Pride+ is encouraging support from LGBT+ allies. Hogan Lovells recognizes the importance of allies to advancing LGBT+ equality and the Pride+ network will provide allies with the means to show their support through events, education, and by advertising their membership of the network internally.

The senior sponsor of the global Pride+ network is David Hudd, Hogan Lovells Deputy Chief Executive Officer. He is supported by fellow partners Mark W. Brennan (Washington D.C.), Sian Owles (London), and Allan Wardrop (Hong Kong), and Head of Legal Project Management, Continental Europe, Christine Siler (Paris).

Speaking on the launch of Pride+, David Hudd commented:

“I am proud that we have chosen today to launch our global LGBT and allies network, Pride+. For Hogan Lovells to thrive professionally, it’s essential to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where our people can bring all of who they are to work. In this diverse world, we all need advocates and allies. This initiative will create a visible network of support for our LGBT+ people – no matter where they are.”

Hogan Lovells has long been one of the most progressive legal firms with regards to tackling LGBT+ matters and creating an inclusive working environment. The firm has achieved regular recognition for its work in LGBT+ advancement, including pro bono work.

Earlier this year, the firm was included in the Top 20 of the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index for the first time, having ranked consistently in the top 50 for several years. This followed being recognised for the eighth time by the Human Rights Campaign with a 100% Corporate Equality Index rating and named a best place to work for LGBT equality in December 2016 in the U.S.

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The complex bankruptcy and restructuring law firm Forshey Prostok announces the promotion of three attorneys and the addition of two lawyers to its Dallas/Fort Worth offices.

“This is an important milestone for the firm, and great news for the companies we represent on the bankruptcy and workout side,” said Jeff Prostok, a founding partner at Forshey Prostok. “These dedicated lawyers represent the best in the business, and we’re glad to have their level of expertise on our team.”

Suzanne K. “Suki” Rosen has been promoted to partner. She has extensive experience litigating complex commercial disputes, including avoidance actions and other business bankruptcy matters. Throughout her 20-year career, Ms. Rosen has helped clients substantially reduce outstanding bankruptcy claims, smoothing the reorganization process and providing higher recovery to creditors.

Matthew G. Maben also has been promoted to partner. His practice includes bankruptcy, business reorganizations and creditor’s rights. He also counsels debtors, creditors and trustees in restructuring and liquidation matters. He has been recognized three times among the “Leaders in their Field” in the prestigious Chambers USA legal guide.

Lynda L. Lankford, with more than 25 years’ experience in bankruptcy litigation, business reorganizations and creditor rights, has been promoted to of counsel. A former auditor who is Board Certified in Business Bankruptcy Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, she is uniquely positioned to provide key financial insights to the firm’s clients.

Matthias Kleinsasser joins Forshey & Prostok as a partner from Kelly Hart. He has extensive experience in bankruptcy litigation, as well as general business litigation in federal and state court. He began his legal career with a bankruptcy court clerkship, after which he practiced in the bankruptcy section of Weil, Gotshal & Manges.

Laurie Dahl Rea joins as of counsel. Her career includes two federal judicial clerkships, as well as extensive experience representing debtors and creditors in large reorganizations and liquidations. Immediately prior to joining Forshey Prostok, Ms. Rea served as the career law clerk to the Honorable Russell F. Nelms.

Forshey Prostok provides extensive experience in all areas of bankruptcy law. The firm’s scope of representation includes handling complex business reorganizations, enforcing of creditor’s rights, leading commercial and bankruptcy-related litigation, overseeing creditors’ committees, directing workouts, and closing bankruptcy acquisitions. Forshey Prostok is ranked by the Chambers USA legal guide and is home to lawyers who are AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell.

The American Beverage Association (ABA) announced the promotion of Sean Krispinsky to senior vice president and deputy general counsel for the association.

“Sean has proven himself to be a trusted resource for both ABA and our member companies and we look forward to his continued counsel as part of the senior management team,” said Susan K. Neely, president and chief executive officer. “His legal acumen and leadership on complex issues has been crucial to the success of our association.”

As senior vice president and deputy general counsel, Krispinsky will continue his work in ABA’s legal department. He is responsible for advising ABA and its members on legal and regulatory issues affecting the beverage industry at the local, national and international levels. These issues include, among others, sales restrictions, bottle deposit systems, taxation, labeling requirements, political law, ingredient safety and advertising. The non-alcoholic beverage industry employs more than 240,000 people with a direct economic impact of more than $169 billion and helps to support hundreds of thousands more that depend, in part, on beverage sales for their livelihoods.

“I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work with some of America’s most iconic companies that lead on the tough issues,” Krispinsky said. “I look forward to continuing to offer them counsel as they put forward bold solutions and take on challenges ahead.”

Prior to this promotion, Krispinsky served at ABA as vice president and deputy general counsel. Before joining ABA, Krispinsky practiced law at Latham & Watkins, an international law firm. During his tenure, he developed litigation strategies for and briefed challenges to various business regulations, including product bans and restrictions, taxes and disclosure laws and successfully contested and defended executive agency actions at both the federal and state level. He also provided clients with litigation counseling and authored numerous briefs in federal and state appellate courts on a range of issues, including novel constitutional, statutory, administrative, criminal, national security and environmental matters. Krispinsky maintains an active pro bono practice and served as lead appellate counsel before the Second and Ninth Circuits on immigration matters.

Prior to joining Latham & Watkins, Krispinsky served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Ruth V. McGregor, chief justice of the Arizona Supreme Court. During law school, he was a legal intern in the Office of the Solicitor General at the U.S. Department of Justice and in the General Counsel’s Office, Office of Administration in the Executive Office of the President at The White House.

Krispinsky received his juris doctorate, magna cum laude, and was awarded the Order of the Coif from The George Washington University Law School. He holds a bachelor’s degree in international studies and political science from the University of LaVerne. Krispinsky and his wife, Rebekah, live in Santa Fe, N.M., with their two children.

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Julie Pettit, founder and managing partner of the Pettit Law Firm, is the recipient of the 2017 Outstanding Young Lawyer Award from the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers (DAYL).

The award is presented annually to an individual who exhibits exemplary service to the legal profession as well as to the community, and who has a reputation for the advancement of legal ethics and professional responsibility.

A civil trial lawyer focusing on real estate and litigation within the financial services industry, Pettit represents consumers and private real estate investors, as well as clients ranging from nonprofit organizations to large corporations, the firm said in a news release.

The release continues:

Ms. Pettit is a frequent speaker and author on issues surrounding the Dodd Frank Act, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), injunctive relief in federal and state courts, and foreclosure law. During the last two legislative sessions, she has spent time in Austin drafting bills and testifying on behalf of mortgage-related legislation.

In addition to DAYL, Ms. Pettit is active in several professional organizations including the Dallas Women Lawyer’s Association, where she has served on the board for two years, and the William “Mac” Taylor Inn of Court, where she is a Barrister. She is also a mentor with the West Dallas outreach and restoration organization, Mercy Street.

Ms. Pettit’s Outstanding Young Lawyer Award nomination was supported by noted Dallas attorneys and members of the judiciary, including the Hon. Martin Hoffman, Lisa Blue, Michael Hurst, Dennis Siaw-Lattey, Chad Ruback, Dena Stroh, Aaron Burke, Ayesha Rafi, Courtney Sauer and Chalon Clark.

“Julie is a lawyer who has initiative, persistence, and follows through to the end,” said Ms. Blue of Baron & Blue, in her letter of nomination. “Not only is she a good lawyer and an asset to the Dallas legal community, she is an entrepreneur. I look forward to continuing to watch her career flourish.”

Ms. Pettit was honored during the Dallas Bar Association’s annual Law Day Luncheon held May 5 at the Belo Mansion.

DLA Piper recently announced that Paul Wassgren has joined the firm’s Corporate practice as a partner in Los Angeles.

Wassgren advises a array of clients, from individual entrepreneurs to domestic companies to multinational and publically traded corporations on securities, project and real estate finance, mergers and acquisitions and general corporate matters.

“Paul’s impressive domestic and international experience and familiarity with corporate law across multiple jurisdictions will provide value to our clients,” said John Gilluly, DLA Piper’s US chair of the Corporate practice. “Paul is a great addition to our global platform, and given his work in Los Angeles over the past several years, he’ll also further strengthen our growing West Coast team.”

Prior to joining DLA Piper, Wassgren was a partner at Fox Rothschild LLP in Los Angeles, where he counseled clients doing business around the world, including China, Australia, Mexico, Belize and India, in a range of corporate matters. He also previously worked in business development for a biotechnology research and development company.

“Paul has developed an extensive network of relationships, in the Southern California region, as well as nationally and internationally, that will enable us to better serve clients in a wide range of industries and matters not only in Los Angeles but on our global platform,” said Perrie Weiner, co-managing partner of DLA Piper in Los Angeles. “We believe his background in biotechnology, real estate and securities, among others, not only complements our existing practice groups but will further enhance what is an already strong Corporate group in California.”

Wassgren’s arrival follows the additions of corporate partners Michael Brown (San Diego) and Brandee Fernandez (Silicon Valley) in California in the past several months.

Wassgren received his J.D. and M.B.A. from Oxford University, and his B.A. from Pepperdine University.

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Blank Rome LLP announced that David J. Moise and Jill E. Misener have joined the firm in the Tax, Benefits, and Private Client group in New York.

Moise joins the firm as a partner with more than 30 years of experience and a federal, state, and local tax practice. Joining Blank Rome as of counsel, Misener also has experience in tax procedure and controversy. Both come to Blank Rome from Withers Bergman LLP.

“We’re thrilled that David and Jill have joined Blank Rome,” said Alan J. Hoffman, Chairman and Managing Partner of the Firm. “David’s team is well-known for its straightforward and honest approach to tax controversy. I know that our clients will appreciate David’s pragmatism as well as his understanding of the risks and rewards associated with our clients’ most sensitive tax issues.”

In a news release, the firm said:

Mr. Moise focuses on federal, state, and local tax examinations, appeals, and litigation matters, as well as federal and multi-state voluntary disclosures. He also has significant experience with tax collection procedures, including tax liens and levies, as well as collection administrative appeals, installment agreements, and offers in compromise. Further, he has extensive capabilities with regards to various treaty issues, such as disputes between the United States and the United Kingdom, resolving key issues and working with Competent Authority to avoid duplicative taxes.

“We’re excited to join Blank Rome,” said Mr. Moise. “Blank Rome has a terrific, national platform that will enable us to expand upon the work we do and the clients we serve, particularly as it relates to partnership and corporate controversy matters. With offices across the country and a wide range of practices that are challenged by tax issues, we’re eager to begin collaborating with our new colleagues at Blank Rome.”

Ms. Misener represents high-net-worth individuals and entities before federal and state tax authorities in controversy resolution matters, bringing her experience in examinations, administrative appeals, voluntary disclosures, and collection matters with her to Blank Rome. Ms. Misener has also advised and represented clients residing outside the United States with U.S. tax issues, and has guided numerous clients through the IRS’s various offshore voluntary disclosure programs.

“David and Jill will be great additions to the practice as they are respected attorneys who are extremely well-versed in tax law at both the federal and state levels,” said Cory G. Jacobs, Chair of the Tax, Benefits, and Private Client group. “On a daily basis, David and Jill handle tax issues that require interface with the IRS, and they know federal procedures inside and out. With tax reform forthcoming, David and Jill are well-positioned to help our clients navigate any future changes to U.S. tax policy.”

Mr. Moise received his B.A. from Syracuse University, his J.D. from Pace University Law School, and his LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University School of Law. He is a member of the American Bar Association Tax Section and the New York Bar Association Tax Section.

Ms. Misener received her B.S. from Washington & Lee University, her J.D. from the University of Kansas School of Law, and her LL.M. in Taxation from New York University School of Law. She is also a member of the American Bar Association Tax Section, the New York Bar Association, and the Federal Bar Association.

Arent Fox LLP has expanded its Complex Litigation practice with the addition of partner Linda M. Jackson and counsel Abram J. Pafford in the firm’s Washington, DC office.

Jackson is a first-chair trial attorney with experience representing clients before federal, state, and appellate courts, as well as before administrative agencies and in arbitration settings. Pafford has experience in government contracts, insurance coverage, and appeals, and routinely appears before appellate courts, trial courts, and administrative tribunals.

“We are excited to welcome Linda and Abe to the firm,” said Complex Litigation leader D. Jacques Smith. “Linda is exactly what we wanted to add to our group — an aggressive, talented, client-focused litigator with a proven track record. She is equally adept at pursuing pre-litigation and litigation strategies that help clients efficiently meet their goals. Abe is a key addition to our growing group and has extensive experience in appellate litigation and government contracts, particularly with cases involving the False Claims Act and the Contract Disputes Act.”

A news release from the firm continues:

Previously a partner at Littler Mendelson P.C., Ms. Jackson has a particular litigation focus in the Eastern District of Virginia, also known as the “Rocket Docket,” and the state trial courts in Northern Virginia, including Fairfax, Arlington, and Loudon counties. A determined litigator who focuses on her clients’ business objectives, Ms. Jackson’ practice includes non-compete, non-solicitation, and non-disclosure negotiation and litigation; civil business conspiracy and tortious interference; executive contracts and compensation; shareholder litigation; whistleblower and retaliation investigations and litigation; trade-secret disputes and wrongful discharge and discrimination matters.

A highly-regarded and well published attorney, Ms. Jackson has been recognized by Chambers USA and Washingtonian magazine as one of the top lawyers in her field. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Amherst College and her law degree from the College of William & Mary.

Mr. Pafford is an accomplished appellate advocate who has argued over two dozen cases in various state and federal courts of appeal. His clients range from Fortune 500 defense contractors and large commercial entities to technology startups and individuals facing white-collar investigations initiated by state and federal law enforcement and regulatory authorities. Mr. Pafford comes to Arent Fox after having operated a successful litigation boutique based in Virginia and Washington DC. Prior to forming his own law firm, he practiced commercial litigation for nearly 10 years with Fried Frank LLP and Covington & Burling LLP. Mr. Pafford also completed judicial clerkships on the United States Court of Federal Claims and the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Liberty University, and his law degree from The George Washington University Law School.

Ms. Jackson and Mr. Pafford are the most recent additions to Arent Fox’s Complex Litigation practice, which has added highly-regarded commercial litigators Peter J. Most and John S. Purcell in Los Angeles and Brian P. Maschler in San Francisco.

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Andrew Eisenberg has joined the Michael Best firm as a partner in the Intellectual Property and Corporate Practice Groups in its Austin office.

Inn a release, the firm said Eisenberg has worked on the development of action plans, legal strategies, and intellectual property portfolios that are directly related to a company’s business goals. Eisenberg has experience in a broad range of matters, including trademarks, patents, corporate formations, licensing, as well as funding and securities issues. He has also worked with a range of companies, including single employee startups to fortune 500 companies.

The news release continues:

“We’re thrilled that Andrew is joining our practice here in Austin,” said Stephen Gigot, Chair of Michael Best’s Intellectual Property Practice. “His strategic thinking and depth of experience working in the startup ecosystem in Austin will enhance the scope of our intellectual property and corporate team, and further credential our firm in a region that is a hotbed for entrepreneurial activity.”

As a founder of the Small Business Festival and a former general counsel for an Austin-based medical startup, Eisenberg has personal experience and insight into issues and legal challenges facing entrepreneur, startups, and growth stage companies.

“The choice for me to join Michael Best was simple,” Eisenberg said. “The firm continues to penetrate new markets, and their intellectual property and corporate teams carry a tremendous reputation for client service that I’m excited to be a part of.”

Aside from his legal work, Eisenberg is an active volunteer and mentor in the Austin community. Among other things, he participates as a judge for the University of Texas – Texas Venture Labs Investment Competition, volunteers as a mentor with Profit Mover Team, and organizes “Startup Law Austin”, a monthly presentation series for inventors and entrepreneurs looking to start a company or protect their assets.

Eisenberg received his J.D. from the University of Notre Dame Law School and his B.S.E., cum laude, from the University of Michigan.

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Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. expanded its litigation team with the recent addition of three attorneys in the firm’s St. Louis office.

Katherine M. Fowler, Jonathan H. Garside and Erika N. Reynolds joined the firm May 1 as officers in the Litigation Practice Group. The three previously were partners at Fox Galvin in St. Louis, practicing in the areas of pharmaceutical, medical malpractice, environmental, class action and product liability litigation.

Fowler acts as lead trial counsel defending businesses in complex civil litigation, including pharmaceutical, high exposure birth injury and medical malpractice litigation, product liability, environmental and class action litigation. She has successfully defended hospitals, nurses and physicians in personal injury and wrongful death claims and has represented a major pharmaceutical company as regional counsel. She also is the founder of the Let’s Start Legal Clinic, which provides pro bono legal representation to women and families impacted by incarceration. Ms. Fowler earned her law degree from Saint Louis University Law School and her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Dayton.

Garside is a trial lawyer with experience handling product liability, medical malpractice, pharmaceutical and commercial litigation. In the area of product liability, he has successfully defended manufacturers of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, construction and farm equipment and consumer products. In class actions, he has obtained dismissals and other favorable results for clients including an association of major health insurers, a nationally known hospital, an international automaker and drug manufacturers. In addition, he represents a major hospital system in complex medical malpractice cases. Mr. Garside earned his law degree from Washington University School of Law and his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California-Berkeley.

Reynolds represents businesses including large international companies in all phases of commercial litigation. She is experienced in mass tort, medical negligence defense, environmental, pharmaceutical and medical device litigation, as well as employment law matters. Her experience includes representing energy, health care and pharmaceutical companies. Her professional involvement has included the Defense Research Institute, Mound City Bar Association, Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers and the Society for Human Resource Management. Ms. Reynolds earned her law degree from the University of Virginia Law School and her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Dayton.

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Akerman LLP has announced that Christian George has been appointed office managing partner of the Jacksonville office, and Irene Bassel Frick has been appointed office managing partner of the Tampa office.

“Christian and Irene are outstanding stewards of Akerman, who are helping us advance the needs of our clients and achieve impact in the community,” said Andrew Smulian, Akerman Chairman and CEO. “They are valuable additions to our management team and we look forward to their many contributions.”

In a release, the firm said:

George is a partner in Akerman’s Litigation Practice Group and most recently served as the local practice group leader for the Jacksonville office. He is a member of the Board of Governors of the Jacksonville Bar Association and is the president-elect of the Young Lawyers Division of The Florida Bar. George represents businesses and individuals in a broad range of commercial litigation issues, with an emphasis on counseling clients in the financial services sector. His work is recognized by Benchmark Litigation, Jacksonville Business Journal, and other publications.

Frick also is a partner in Akerman’s Litigation Practice Group and is a member of the firm’s Client Experience Team. She previously served as a member of the firm’s Associate Professional Evaluation Committee. In the community, Frick is a founder and member of the Bay Area Legal Services Pearl Society and previously served as the president of the Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers. She represents businesses, financial institutions and insurers in a variety of business disputes, with an emphasis on class action defense and ERISA litigation. She is recognized for her work by the Florida Association for Women Lawyers as well as The Best Lawyers in America and other publications.

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Sidley Austin LLP announced that Richard Alonso has joined the firm as a partner in its Washington, D.C. office. He will be a member of the firm’s Environmental practice.

Alonso has dealt with the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulatory process and has experience with environmental compliance and enforcement issues, including federal and state enforcement defense strategies, the firm said in a news release.

The release continues:

Prior to building a private practice, Alonso served as chief of the Stationary Source Enforcement Branch at the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. He had earlier served at the EPA in the Water Enforcement Division. During his tenure with the EPA, he had responsibility for enforcing the Clean Air Act (CAA), Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act. He managed and negotiated CAA enforcement cases, including New Source Review (NSR) cases, with power plants and manufacturing facilities and was instrumental in developing CAA policies and regulations. Alonso also held key roles in cases relating to defeat devices and engine certification requirements under the CAA’s Title II mobile source program. He is known as a national authority on EPA automotive and fuel regulatory programs, including the Renewable Fuels Standard program.

“Rich’s firsthand experience in both private practice and the public sector will make him a valuable asset for our clients looking for advice in addressing their complex environmental challenges at both the federal and state levels,” said David Buente, co-leader of Sidley’s Environmental practice. “We are delighted to welcome Rich to our outstanding team of lawyers dedicated to assisting clients with every aspect of environmental law.”

Alonso represents clients including large trade associations, manufacturers and energy companies in environmental compliance and enforcement matters before both state and federal agencies. He focuses his practice on CAA issues, including NSR applicability and permitting, EPA rulemaking efforts, legal challenges to EPA actions, and CAA enforcement defense and compliance counseling. Mr. Alonso’s CAA experience includes the development of State and Federal Implementation Plans, permitting programs, and policies applicable to stationary sources, fuel regulations, automotive engine certifications and regulation of ozone depleting substances. He has tackled cutting-edge environmental issues for a variety of industrial sectors, including the implementation of climate change regulations, permitting of greenhouse gas emissions, and regulation of methane emissions from oil and gas operations.

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Miller & Chevalier has announced that William P. Barry joined the firm as a member in the Litigation department.

In a news release, the firm said Barry advises clients on securities enforcement and white collar defense matters, with a particular emphasis on representing boards, senior executives, and companies in matters related to Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), anti-money laundering, accounting, and related issues.

The release continues:

Prior to joining Miller & Chevalier, Barry served as a partner at Richards Kibbe & Orbe LLP, counselling public companies, investors, investment and retail banks, and non-U.S. companies seeking investments from U.S. entities.

“I’m pleased to join a firm with experts in a variety of disciplines necessary to cross-border business in today’s marketplace, who advise and protect companies, boards, and individuals in critical junctures,” Barry said. “The goal is to serve your clients best when they need you the most, and I can’t think of a better place to do that than at a firm with nearly a century of tradition, history, and stability whose lawyers operate on the cutting edge of emerging market trends.”

“I’ve known Will personally and professionally for over 25 years,” said Mark Rochon, Chair of Miller & Chevalier’s Litigation practice. “I’ve always been impressed with his judgment, calm assessment of complicated issues, and ability to work well with everyone. He is a dynamic addition to Miller & Chevalier.”

Barry’s move comes on the heels of another key litigation addition, as civil and criminal attorney Preston L. Pugh joined the firm in April.

Barry’s influence expands far beyond his work in the Washington, DC area; he has advised clients with interests around the world, including Brazil, Canada, China, India, Russia, and Switzerland. He was selected by Benchmark Litigation as a National Star for White Collar Crime and Securities Litigation in 2017 and has been recommended by The Legal 500 United States in White Collar Criminal Defense four years running.

“We are very pleased to welcome Will to Miller & Chevalier,” said Anthony F. Shelley, Chair of the firm’s Executive Committee. “His securities enforcement and white collar experience will be a valuable asset to our growing Litigation department.”

A frequent author and speaker on corruption topics, Barry is a member of the American Bar Association’s International Anti-Money Laundering Committee and International Anti-Corruption Committee. He is also the chairman of Olney Boys & Girls Club (OBGC), a non-profit organization that currently serves close to 6,000 children and their families in Maryland. Over the course of its nearly 50-year history, OBGC has provided more than 45,000 children with safe after-school sports programs emphasizing both physical and emotional development.

Barry earned a B.A. from Wesleyan University in 1991 and a J.D. from George Washington University Law School in 1995.

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Commercial litigator Peter J. Most has joined Arent Fox LLP as a partner in the firm’s Los Angeles office. Most joins the firm’s Complex Litigation group and will focus his practice on securities litigation, real estate, commercial fraud, and professional liability.

“We are happy to welcome Peter to the firm,” said Los Angeles Managing Partner Aaron H. Jacoby. “Peter’s success rate in high-stakes securities litigation, as well as other significant financial and real estate disputes, is a great addition to our deep bench of litigators in Los Angeles and across the firm.”

A release from the firm says:

Previously a principal at McKool Smith, Most has experience representing large US financial institutions in connection with their purchases of nearly $1 billion of Parmalat-related securities. Additionally, Most has represented US financial institutions in litigation against Wall Street banks in connection with the purchase of more than $1 billion of Enron and Enron-related securities. He has also represented a large international bank in a $500 million fraud action against another international bank related to the sale of Enron-related derivative securities and structure financings. Each of the matters resolved favorably for Mr. Most’s clients.

Most is the latest addition to Arent Fox’s Complex Litigation practice, which has added highly-regarded commercial litigator, John S. Purcell in Los Angeles and Brian P. Maschler in San Francisco.

In addition to large financial institutions, Mr. Most has represented lenders and borrowers, investment companies, local governments, and real estate developers, among others, in their complex disputes.

Most‘s six-year tenure on the United States District Court Merit Selection Panel for Magistrate Judges recently ended and he currently serves on the Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Judicial Appointments Committee. In addition, Mr. Most serves the Los Angeles Superior Court as both Judge Pro Tern and Mediator. He earned his bachelor’s degree, manga cum laude, from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and his law degree from George Washington University National Law Center.

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Blank Rome LLP announces that Elizabeth E. Klingensmith has joined the firm as a partner in the Corporate Litigation group and member of the Energy industry team. She is based in the firm’s Houston office and joins Blank Rome from Haynes and Boone, LLP.

Klingensmith is the latest addition to the firm’s Houston office, which has experienced steady growth since opening six years ago.

In a news release, the firm said:

Blank Rome launched its Houston presence when it combined with Abrams, Scott & Bickley in June 2011, adding leading litigation attorneys with significant energy industry experience. The firm continued its growth in Houston with the addition of the maritime lawyers of Bell, Ryniker & Letourneau, P.C., in August 2013. Two years later, Blank Rome added 23 attorneys and additional staff from the intellectual property law firm of Wong, Cabello, Lutsch, Rutherford & Brucculeri L.L.P. The Houston office continued to diversify in 2016, adding three attorneys in the labor & employment, real estate, and intellectual property and technology groups. The Firm also continues to expand its national energy team, most recently welcoming Partners Amy L. Barrette and Jeremy A. Mercer from Norton Rose Fulbright in its Pittsburgh office.

“We’re thrilled that Liz is joining us in Houston,” said Alan Hoffman, Blank Rome’s Chairman and Managing Partner. “Liz is a natural go-getter and our Houston office and energy industry team will provide her with the opportunity to further develop her already strong energy litigation practice. Liz is also passionate about engaging young and diverse professionals within the energy sector and we look forward to the mentorship she’ll provide for young attorneys at Blank Rome and beyond.”

Klingensmith’s primary focus is oil and gas litigation. She routinely represents large and small companies in disputes arising from oil and gas operations and transactions in Texas and North Dakota. She has also counseled oil and gas clients in Oklahoma and Louisiana on a pro hac vice basis. Whether in a small-town courtroom or before an arbitration panel comprised of industry experts, she comes prepared with an understanding of the law and facts, and a full appreciation of her clients’ business objectives. She capably simplifies complex issues into a persuasive story whether for judge, jury, or mediator.

“Liz is an all-around talented litigator with impressive experience in the oil and gas sector. There are natural synergies between the energy markets in Houston, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia, particularly as it relates to Marcellus Shale work, and Liz will be a great asset to our teams and our clients in these regions,” said Barry Abrams, Administrative Partner of Blank Rome’s Houston office.

In addition to her energy-focused work, Klingensmith frequently handles commercial disputes in the construction, real estate, transportation, banking, and professional services industries. She has extensive experience with disputes that involve claims for breach of contract, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, post-judgment enforcement, theft of trade secrets, breach of employment agreements, conversion, and declaratory judgment.

“I am very excited to join such a highly regarded and accomplished team of attorneys in Blank Rome’s Houston office,” said Ms. Klingensmith. “It was evident from my first meeting with Blank Rome just how much head and heart the Firm put into establishing and building the Houston office. I cannot wait to continue to build the Firm’s profile in Houston, and collaborate with the Firm’s deep bench of talent in other offices. I know this new chapter at Blank Rome will serve my clients well.”

Klingensmith serves as the Young Energy Professionals Committee Chair for the Institute for Energy Law, and is passionate about engaging the next generation of energy professionals. The YEP Committee held its first National Young Energy Professionals Law Conference in March 2017.

Klingensmith received her B.A. and B.M. from Rice University and her J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center.

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Veteran energy company in-house counsel Todd L. Grimmett has joined The Lanier Law Firm as a member of the commercial litigation team. His hiring bolsters the firm’s growing focus on lawsuits affecting the oil and gas industry, the firm said in a news release.

Grimmett most recently served as an in-house counsel for Oklahoma City-based Chesapeake Energy Corp., one of the nation’s largest natural gas producers. For the past six years, Grimmett represented Chesapeake in a number of civil litigation matters and provided legal counsel for the company’s upstream and midstream divisions. In addition, he directed responses to regulatory inquiries and investigations and was responsible for managing the company’s e-discovery department.

Before joining Chesapeake in 2011, he served as a trial lawyer with several Oklahoma-based law firms and tried cases in jurisdictions throughout the Southwest.

“Todd is an exceptional young lawyer with a deep understanding of the energy sector as well as a wealth of practical experience in the courtroom,” said Mark Lanier, who founded the firm nearly 25 years ago. “This combination of skills will be a great asset as we take on an increasing number of cases related to oil and gas disputes, as well as other civil ligation matters.”

In his new role, Grimmett is reunited with Regan E. Bradford, former Deputy General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary for Chesapeake, who joined the Lanier Law Firm in 2016.

Grimmett earned his law degree in 2006 from the University of Oklahoma College of Law, and served as an intern in the office of the Oklahoma Attorney General while in law school. He received his undergraduate degree in business administration from Oklahoma State University in 2001.

The firm has offices in Houston, Los Angeles, and New York.

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Freeborn & Peters LLP announces that Chad J. Richman and Neal L. Wolf have joined the firm’s Chicago office as partners. Richman is a member of the firm’s Real Estate Practice Group and Wolf is a member of Freeborn’s Bankruptcy and Financial Restructuring Practice Group.

Richman has experience in a broad range of real estate, finance, transactional and general business matters. His real estate practice includes acquisitions and dispositions, development, leasing, fund formation, venture structuring, and complex financing involving all types of real estate uses. Mr. Richman also regularly represents publicly and privately held companies on a wide spectrum of structuring and operational issues.

Richman gained experience in transactional real estate while practicing at the global law firm of DLA Piper. Prior to practicing law, he participated in the development of a mixed-use property in downtown Chicago and also served as a judicial extern to the Honorable Ronald A. Guzman in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Richman graduated from The John Marshall Law School ranked first in his law school class and received his Bachelor of Arts from Miami University.

Wolf focuses his practice in the areas of business reorganizations, workouts, debt restructuring and business bankruptcy, as well as business litigation. His diverse insolvency and bankruptcy practice experience has involved the representation of secured and unsecured creditors, creditors’ committees, debtors, trustees, liquidating trusts, lessors, and purchasers of stock or assets of insolvent entities. His business litigation experience has included the successful trial and arbitration of cases involving a broad spectrum of issues, including but not limited to the Uniform Commercial Code, “lender liability” law, fraudulent conveyance avoidance, preference avoidance, partnership disputes, state and federal securities law issues, business torts, and contract law.

In the course of his career, Wolf has appeared in the federal and state courts and regulatory agencies of more than 40 states and the Territory of Puerto Rico.

Most recently, Wolf was a partner at Tetzlaff Law Offices LLC in Chicago. He previously practiced at Much Shelist, P.C.; the former Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP; Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP and Winston & Strawn LLP.

Neal is a Fellow of the American College of Bankruptcy. He earned his J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School and his Bachelor of Arts (magna cum laude) from Princeton University.

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