Trends in expert witness testimony, crisis management in the legal arena, and the arbitration legacy of former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor are diverse topics dissected in the first-quarter 2022 edition of the Defense Counsel Journal (DCJ), published by the International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC).

Frequently and favorably cited by courts and other legal scholarship, the DCJ is a quarterly forum for topical and scholarly writings on the law, including its development and reform, as well as on the practice of law in general. DCJ articles are written by members of the IADC, which is a 2,500-member, invitation-only, worldwide organization that serves its members and their clients, as well as the civil justice system and the legal profession.

Also in the current issue of the DCJ, IADC member and DCJ editor Christopher B. Parkerson makes a case for developing alternatives to remote court proceedings as a lesson learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I believe a witness taking an oath over Zoom and testifying from his or her couch doesn’t take a deposition as seriously as someone asked to appear in a courtroom or conference room,” Mr. Parkerson writes. “I also believe that a party appearing in court in front of a judge has more respect for the procedure than someone sitting behind the wheel of their car watching proceedings on a laptop.”

Mr. Parkerson opines that the process and formality of going to court and being in front of a judge should not be forfeited to technology or convenience.

“Things like testing, additional ventilation and circulation in court rooms, rooms that allow for proper spacing, and other precautions are much better and allow for a more effective use of the system,” Mr. Parkerson adds. “The use of remote proceedings should only be reserved for exceptional circumstances once these new procedures are identified and implemented.”

Following are brief summaries of the articles included in the first-quarter 2022 issue of the DCJ:

“Taking a ‘Hard Look’ at Expert Witness Testimony Under Rule 702” by Munjot Sahu, counsel-litigation and legal compliance at Eli Lilly and Company, and King & Spalding attorneys Geoffrey M. Drake, Eva Canaan and TaCara Harris, partners, and Luke Bosso, an associate – The article examines the rules and laws governing expert witness testimony, analyzing current trends in courts’ scrutiny of expert testimony and providing insights on what the future may hold in this critical area of litigation.

“Lessons From a Year in Crisis: Do’s and Don’ts of Crisis Management” by Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP attorneys Michael C. Zogby, a partner, and Kaitlyn E. Stone, an associate; and Claudia V. Garcia, corporate counsel, commercial, at Exelixis, Inc. – This piece reviews current events impacting clients and law firms and discusses approaches and practices for any business to manage associated risks in order to deliver the best results possible.

“The Arbitration Legacy of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor” – by Mitchell L. Lathrop, an attorney and domestic and international arbitrator; Daniela Karollus-Bruner, a partner at CMS; and Kevin F. Truxillo, a partner at Garrison, Yount, Forte & Mulcahy, LLC – This article looks at former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor who, according to the authors, participated in landmark arbitration decisions and whose positions cemented arbitration as a means of commercial dispute resolution in the United States.

The IADC is the preeminent invitation-only global legal organization for attorneys who represent corporate and insurance interests. Founded in 1920, the IADC has members who hail from six continents, 49 countries and territories, and all 50 U.S. states. The core purposes of the IADC are to enhance the development of skills, promote professionalism, and facilitate camaraderie among its members and their clients, as well as the broader civil justice community. For more information, visit www.iadclaw.org.

Chamberlain Hrdlicka is pleased to welcome Andrew Gadd as the Firm’s first Director of Attorney Recruiting and Professional Development. Gadd will be based out of the Atlanta office and will work firmwide.

To remain competitive with the current robust market for legal talent, Chamberlain Hrdlicka created the role to manage the attorney recruiting cycle from beginning to becoming shareholder. Gadd will collaborate with firm leadership, practice group leaders and shareholders on the Firm’s strategic hiring goals, lateral recruiting and acquisition, professional development and succession planning.

“The creation of this new role and the welcomed addition of Andrew Gadd to our team will be transformative for our attorney recruiting and professional development,” said Larry Campagna, Chamberlain Hrdlicka managing shareholder. “As our firm celebrates adding more than 23 new attorneys to our team this year, we remain in a competitive market for the foreseeable future. Drew’s extensive experience with innovative methods of attorney recruiting will help to fill high-priority positions and build our recruiting pipeline. He will be in a unique position to work with all members of the firm to identify their practice group needs and offer targeted solutions and strategies to meet our ambitious hiring goals and oversee our professional development.”

Gadd is an experienced recruiter for the legal industry. Prior to joining Chamberlain Hrdlicka, he managed associate and of-counsel recruiting for an Am Law 200 national labor and employment boutique firm with 37 offices and more than 475 attorneys, with specific emphasis on the firm’s East Coast and Midwest offices. Gadd has experience working directly with firm leaders to identify and achieve strategic growth objectives. He has managed lateral attorney recruiting cycles from sourcing, interviews and recommendations of lateral candidates to regional managing partners for final rounds of interviews. Gadd is also knowledgeable in tracking and analyzing lateral market information on a continuous basis to ensure the firm remains competitive year over year. Additionally, he helped manage the firm’s summer program, assisted with the professional development and associate mentorship program and contributed to the firm’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, including the achievement of Mansfield 4.0 Certification.

Gadd earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky.

About Chamberlain Hrdlicka
Chamberlain Hrdlicka is a diversified business law firm with offices in Atlanta, Houston, 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 appellate law, bankruptcy, commercial and probate litigation, construction law, corporate, employee benefits, energy and maritime law, ERISA, estate planning and administration, intellectual property, international and immigration law, labor and employment, privacy and data security, real estate, securities and finance, tax controversy and tax planning.

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Bradley Partner Dick Sayles Inducted into the Lawdragon Hall of Fame

Veteran Trial Lawyer is one of 28 honored nationwide

DALLAS – Veteran Dallas trial lawyer Dick Sayles is being inducted into the Lawdragon Hall of Fame class of 2022. The prestigious honor is the latest recognition for Mr. Sayles, who has developed a national reputation based on his trailblazing work in the courtroom and commitment to the legal profession.

“I am honored to be included in such an impressive Lawdragon list of lawyers and judges,” said Mr. Sayles, who serves as managing partner of Bradley’s Dallas office.

Mr. Sayles has an active caseload in state and federal venues across the country, representing clients in a range of commercial litigation including securities, healthcare, product liability and patent infringement disputes. He has tried over 150 cases to verdict, earning more than a dozen multimillion-dollar jury verdicts along with high-profile defense wins. Those outcomes have been featured on several occasions among VerdictSearch’s annual compilation of top verdicts.

Honored as the Dallas Bar Association’s Trial Lawyer of the Year in 2018, Mr. Sayles has also been recognized by Benchmark Litigation and Best Lawyers in America. In addition, he is a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers, the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, and the International Society of Barristers. Mr. Sayles was featured in Texas Lawbook’s “Lions of the Texas Bar” and has been selected among the Texas Super Lawyers Top 10 lawyers in Texas multiple times. Mr. Sayles was previously named in the 2020 edition of the Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America.

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 over 500 lawyers represent clients worldwide in a wide range of professions, including financial services, healthcare, construction, technology, energy, insurance, and many others.

Media Contact:
Alyssa Woulfe
800-559-4534
alyssa@androvett.com

Steptoe & Johnson LLP is pleased to announce that it has continued the expansion of its corporate practice with the addition of Jim Modlin as a partner in the New York office, focusing on M&A and general corporate service.

Modlin brings significant corporate and M&A advisory experience to Steptoe’s corporate practice, which continued its trend of targeted and aggressive expansion in both lawyer headcount and volume of complex domestic and cross-border M&A transactions handled in 2021. This dynamic growth has been driven by client demand in the Caribbean and Latin American markets as well as domestic sectors such as crypto, cybersecurity, healthcare, and energy.

Modlin was previously a partner in the M&A practice at Hughes Hubbard & Reed, where he advised on high-profile transactions in the media, professional services, chemicals, and pharma industries, before joining EY as deputy general counsel for corporate and transactions in 2018. His practice focuses on advising management and corporate boards of public and private companies in the areas of M&A, capital structure transactions, governance and fiduciary duties, and commercial disputes.

“Jim provides outstanding experience and depth to complement the exceptional attorneys that make up our growing corporate practice,” said Steptoe chair Gwen Renigar. “We look forward to adding such a recognized and well-established deal lawyer as we continue the expansion of our M&A capabilities and meet our clients’ growing transactional needs.”

Modlin added: “It is a truly exciting time to be joining Steptoe’s Corporate Group as the practice experiences rapid growth driven by demand from the firm’s broad client base. I look forward to working alongside such an accomplished and talented team of lawyers as we continue to build a market-leading practice while collaborating with Steptoe’s renowned tax, trade, export controls and sanctions, IP, real estate, bankruptcy, energy, transportation, and environmental teams.”

Steptoe corporate lawyers represent companies in all areas of corporate, securities, and finance transactions, particularly those in a cross-border context. The firm works with its public and privater company clients at every stage of the business cycle, from entity formation and early stage financing, to day-to-day advice on business and legal issues, to negotiating mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and dispositions, to complex financial and restructuring transactions.

Steptoe’s domestic and international presence, coupled with the practical experience and business acumen of its corporate lawyers, enables the firm to provide its clients with advanced solutions to even the most complicated transactions, wherever they occur. Steptoe represent buyers, sellers, special committees, and investment bankers in structuring and negotiating mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and other investments and dispositions worldwide.

Modlin was ranked by Chambers USA for New York M&A in his previous practice. He received his J.D. from Columbia University, where he was a Stone Scholar, and his bachelor’s degree from Cornell 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+.

Steptoe & Johnson LLP is pleased to announce that trial lawyer Elyse D. Echtman will be joining the firm’s Commercial Litigation group as a partner based in the New York office.

Echtman is a Chambers-ranked accomplished trial advocate with decades of experience litigating complex commercial disputes, telecommunications, and product liability matters. She has built a reputation for targeted, innovative litigation strategies and effective team leadership. Echtman’s practice focuses not only on representing companies in active litigation, but also on counseling clients on effective and efficient ways to favorably resolve disputes.

Prior to joining Steptoe, Echtman served as the leader of Orrick’s Complex Litigation and Dispute Resolution practice. Her notable representations include DISH Network in one of the highest stakes telemarketing trials in the nation, brought by the FTC and four states, and Johnson & Johnson in California Proposition 65 litigation related to J&J’s talcum products. In 2021, Chambers USA recognized Echtman as a Leading Lawyer in New York general commercial litigation.

“I have gotten to know Elyse and can see why she has a long-established and dedicated client following and endorsement,” said Steptoe Chair Gwen Renigar. “She is an accomplished trial lawyer and a keen strategic thinker, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to our New York office and firm.”

“Transitions are never easy,” said Echtman, “but with Steptoe, the stars were aligned, including a valued common client and a history of strong collaboration between our teams. I’m also proud to be joining a firm with a woman at the helm and so many highly-respected women in leadership roles. I’m thrilled to join this impressive team.”

“We learned about Elyse’s superb litigation qualities the best way – by working side by side on behalf of our great common client DISH,” said Pantelis Michalopoulos, leader of Steptoe’s Internet, Telecom and Media group. “We can’t wait to do so as partners.”

“We could not be more excited to have a first-chair trial lawyer of Elyse’s nationally-recognized talents join our diverse commercial litigation team,” said Jennifer Quinn-Barabanov, co-leader of Steptoe’s Commercial Litigation group. “Elyse’s practice aligns perfectly with Steptoe’s strengths in representing highly regulated companies in their most challenging, bet-the-company disputes.”

Steptoe’s Commercial Litigation group handles virtually every kind of complex business dispute in courts and arbitrations throughout the United States and abroad. The firm has represented clients in almost every imaginable industry, with emphasis in energy, manufacturing, telecommunication, retail and consumer articles, financial services, and natural resources. Steptoe litigators are particularly well-suited to handle complex, cross-border disputes that require a multidisciplinary approach to dispute resolution.

“Steptoe’s commercial litigation team is well-known for its broad scope and depth of experience. I look forward to sharing my own perspectives with such a talented group of legal professionals to develop creative and effective litigation strategies for the firm’s diverse clients,” said Echtman.

Echtman received her J.D. from New York University School of Law and her bachelor’s degree with distinction in all subjects from Cornell 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+.

The Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group is pleased to announce the addition of administrative specialist Amanda Gonzalez to its talented team of legal professionals. Gonzalez brings over seven years of extensive experience, specializing in firm billing, management, and family law.
“Administrative specialists like Amanda are critical to the stability of any law firm,” said Rebecca Palmer, Owner and Managing Partner of the firm. “We are thrilled to have Amanda join our growing team and look forward to her many contributions that help us maximize service to our clients.”
As an administrative specialist, Gonzalez has extensive experience supporting law firm attorneys and paralegals in all phases of litigation, from the initial investigation through the appeal. Gonzalez has comprehensive expertise in case and billing management, scheduling, and organizational communication.
“I am honored to join such a distinguished team,” said Gonzalez. “The Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group is a great step forward in my career, and I am excited to bring my experience to help best serve our firm’s clients. Navigating the legal space during these challenging times is arduous, and it is my goal to make that process as painless as possible.”
Gonzalez started her career in the legal industry, working for several law firms specializing in divorce and family law. She has extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office, various legal administrative software, and strong verbal and written communication skills. Gonzalez is bilingual, with Spanish as a second language. She earned a Financial Operations Technical Certificate from Seminole State College of Florida and is currently a candidate for a bachelor of science degree in business and information management. She has her associate’s degree in arts from Seminole State College of Florida.
About Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group
Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group is dedicated to clients who find themselves coping with some of the most critical and emotional changes of their lives, such as dissolution of a marriage, determination of paternity, or fighting for custody of minor children. These are episodes in which the best result – a positive change – is achieved via an extraordinary level of trust, integrity, and empathy, in addition to a well-focused set of legal skills. The firm offers that rare combination in the service of our clients. For more information, visit www.rlplawgroup.com

Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson’s David Findley Receives Board Certification in Family Law

Findley joins firm attorneys in becoming 16th lawyer to receive distinction

DALLAS – Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson Family Law attorney David Findley has earned board certification in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

“We are proud that David has passed the examination to become board certified,” said Scott Downing, the firm’s managing partner. “David is a talented and dedicated attorney who cares about his clients. Becoming board certified gives him additional knowledge to assist families involved in Family Law disputes. It’s a great accomplishment.”

Texas Board of Legal Specialization certification is earned by less than 1 percent of eligible attorneys and requires continuing legal education, completion of an exam, and other qualifications. Mr. Findley is one of 16 attorneys Board Certified in Family Law at ONDA.

“Providing my clients with the best Family Law counsel possible is always my primary goal, and achieving this certification helps me to find the right solutions for their individual situations,” said Mr. Findley.

Mr. Findley joined ONDA in 2020 and has established a practice focusing on divorce and custody disputes, as well as issues involving property division and estate planning. An author and commentator on Family Law and related legal issues, he is a member of the Family Law sections of the State Bar of Texas and the Dallas Bar Association, as well as the Annette Stewart American Inn of Court.

Mr. Findley received his law degree from Baylor Law School and his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University.

Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson has served families for almost 30 years. With offices in Dallas, Frisco, Fort Worth and San Antonio, ONDA is one of Texas’ largest Family Law firms. Each partner is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, as well as a member of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists.

Pashman Stein Walder Hayden (Pashman Stein) is pleased to welcome Jerome M. Selvers, who joins as partner and chair of the firm’s new Securities Regulatory Enforcement & Litigation practice.

A former Trial Attorney in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Division of Enforcement, Selvers is widely recognized as a preeminent securities attorney, respected in both the private bar and securities enforcement agencies for his knowledge, skill and professionalism. He represents brokers, brokerage firms, public and private companies, investment advisers, directors, officers, and individuals in securities investigations, as well as civil enforcement and administrative litigation throughout the country. He has extensive experience representing clients in proceedings before the SEC, the New Jersey Bureau of Securities, and other state securities regulators, as well as in disciplinary proceedings before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

“We are extremely excited and fortunate to welcome Jerry to the firm to lead this new practice,” said Joseph A. Hayden, Jr., co-chair of the firm’s Criminal Defense and Investigations practices. “Jerry is a securities litigator of national stature with a long track record of success. He has been deeply involved in some of our country’s most prominent securities cases. His wisdom and litigation experience in civil enforcement and disciplinary matters, when combined with our established criminal practice, will provide our clients comprehensive defense counsel in securities investigations, enforcement, and litigation.”

Selvers is regularly called upon by criminal defense attorneys from other firms to provide advice and counsel in connection with allegations of federal and state securities law violations by their clients. He also represents accountants and attorneys in enforcement actions before the SEC, as well as investors in FINRA arbitrations who have suffered significant financial losses due to broker misconduct.

In addition, Selvers litigates commercial matters involving disputes among businesses, shareholders, and employees.

Selvers said, “I have worked with Pashman Stein lawyers for more than 25 years. Each is an extraordinary person and professional. I’ve always been impressed with their dedication and commitment to their clients. I am excited to team up with these skilled attorneys to deliver unparalleled securities regulatory services to our clients.”

About Pashman Stein Walder Hayden
Pashman Stein Walder Hayden is a multi-specialty law firm with a reputation for professional excellence. Headquartered in Hackensack, New Jersey with offices in Monmouth County, New Jersey and Westchester County, New York, the firm serves a diverse client base including Fortune 500 companies, emerging growth entities and entrepreneurial businesses, professional athletes, celebrity influencers, fashion models, law firms, judges, lawyers, governmental entities, non-profit organizations, and individuals. Recent honors include being named Law Firm of the Year-Finalist (2021) and, for the fourth year in a row, awarded Appellate Litigation Department of the Year (2021), by the New Jersey Law Journal; and named 2020 Pro Bono Law firm by the New Jersey State Bar Association. For more information, please visit www.pashmanstein.com.

Lisa Thomas Elevated to Name Partner at Houston Trial Boutique

Firm announces new name of Cadwell Clonts Reeder & Thomas

HOUSTON – Kevin Cadwell, David Clonts and Michael Reeder are pleased to announce that Lisa Thomas has been added as a name partner of the respected Houston-based trial boutique now known as Cadwell Clonts Reeder & Thomas.

“This decision allows us to recognize Lisa’s success and experience as a litigation strategist and her work with our team during the past year, handling disputes in venues across the nation,” says Firm co-founder Kevin Cadwell. “We were honored when she chose to join us, and Lisa is an integral member of our Firm and has changed the Firm’s DNA in the time she has been with us. She is an outstanding attorney and leader for our Firm and the profession.”

For the past decade Ms. Thomas has focused on intellectual property disputes with an emphasis on complex patent litigation. She has extensive trial experience, which gives her sharp insight on all phases of litigation starting from the earliest pre-suit strategy through appeals. She has successfully litigated cases in a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemistry, energy, and software.

“I am thrilled to put my name alongside three fantastic attorneys and behind the unique and customized services we provide for our clients, which fits the particular challenges of each case,” says Ms. Thomas. “Clients are increasingly looking to firms such as ours that are experienced and aggressive, but also agile in how we approach and resolve complex cases. I look forward to continuing to grow as a firm and win cases for our clients.”

Ms. Thomas earned her law degree from Southern Methodist University’s Dedman School of Law in 2011 and her undergraduate degree in bioengineering from Rice University in 2005. She started her career in the Houston office of Baker Botts and joined the Firm in 2021 from the Houston office of Reed Smith LLP.

Cadwell Clonts Reeder & Thomas supports a wide range of business sectors in complex commercial disputes, intellectual property matters, and corporate transactions. Backed by previous tenures at major international law firms, the attorneys represent some of the most intriguing and promising startups, as well as Fortune 100 companies.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that Nick Monaghan, a member of the firm’s corporate and finance practice group, has been appointed to serve as Managing Member of Dykema’s San Antonio office. Monaghan follows James “Marty” Truss, who held the Office Managing Member position in San Antonio since January of 2018.

Established in 1939, Dykema’s San Antonio office has deep roots and a rich history of serving the South and Central Texas Region. Renowned for its work in energy, litigation, corporate, labor & employment, intellectual property, and real estate, Dykema’s more than 50 San Antonio-based attorneys advise clients in a broad range of industries.

Monaghan began his legal career with Dykema as a summer associate in 2008. As a leading corporate and mergers and acquisitions attorney, he has extensive experience counseling businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors in connection with significant transactions. He concentrates his practice on complex business transactions and has substantial experience advising clients in the acquisition and sale of businesses and assets.

In addition to his business acquisition experience, Monaghan represents entrepreneurs and investors in connection with business partnerships and investments. He also represents a number of San Antonio’s most notable nonprofit organizations.

Monaghan has consistently earned recognition for his legal acumen throughout his career. He’s been recognized by many publications and organizations, including being named one of “San Antonio’s Top Attorneys,” by San Antonio Magazine, as both one of “San Antonio’s Best Lawyers,” and “San Antonio’s Rising Stars,” by S.A. Scene, and as a “Rising Star,” by Texas Super Lawyers.

Outside of his practice, Monaghan is the President-Elect for the Association for Corporate Growth’s Austin/San Antonio chapter, a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, and a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership San Antonio, Class 43.

He earned a J.D., magna cum laude, from Notre Dame Law School, and a B.A., magna cum laude, from the University of Arizona.

Greensfelder is pleased to announce that attorneys Lauren Daming, Kelsey McGonigle and Chantal Fink Mehill have each been promoted to officer, effective February 1, 2022.

Daming, McGonigle and Mehill are each based in the firm’s St. Louis office.

This marks the second time in two years that Greensfelder has promoted an all-female class of attorneys to officer, fitting with the firm’s core value of promoting equity and removing barriers to success.

“We are very pleased to welcome Lauren, Kelsey and Chantal as new officers,” Greensfelder President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin T. McLaughlin said. “Each of our new officers has made key contributions to the business success of our clients and established herself as a valuable colleague. Their success also helps us take another step forward in the firm’s ongoing commitment to the promotion of women and diverse lawyers into leadership roles.”

A member of the firm’s Employment & Labor practice group, Daming received her J.D. from Washington University School of Law. She represents clients facing issues related to discrimination, leave and accommodations, wage and hour issues, employee benefits, and traditional labor issues. She also counsels employers on privacy issues and is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and a Certified E-Discovery Specialist (CEDS). Daming serves as the firm’s Assistant General Counsel for employment matters.

A member of the firm’s Business Services practice group, McGonigle received her J.D. from William & Mary Law School. Her practice encompasses all aspects of mergers and acquisitions, drawing on her diverse experience in transactions ranging from asset purchases to equity transactions and debt financing. In addition to her M&A practice, she regularly advises closely held businesses on business succession planning and other general business matters including corporate governance and entity formation and dissolution. McGonigle also assists in non-profit formations and mergers.

A member of the firm’s Construction practice group, Mehill received her J.D. from the University of Missouri. She handles a wide range of construction matters, including contract negotiations, early dispute resolution, arbitration, and litigation and has represented owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and designers on a regional and national level. Mehill has experience in all phases of litigation and frequently performs pre-project risk review for client construction contracts. She also has represented businesses in contractual, lending, employment, and real estate matters.

Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP is pleased to announce the creation of its first C-suite role overseeing all aspects of talent management, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) – reflecting the firm’s commitment to those matters at the highest levels. After a lengthy process, which included interviewing candidates from around the country, Parker Poe’s board of directors was pleased to offer the position to current partner Shalanna Pirtle, who accepted without hesitation.

“The skills that make Shalanna an excellent mediator and employment partner (she’s an empathetic, problem-solving, strategic thinker) are what we need in this job,” Managing Partner Tom Griffin says. “When you toss in her 15 years of service to Parker Poe, her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and her powerful voice for change and improvement – I believe this will make a true difference in our firm and will drive progress on many fronts that are critical to our success and family.”

The C-suite role is the next step in a process Parker Poe started more than 15 years ago, when it was one of the first firms in the Southeast to set up central oversight of diversity initiatives. Shalanna will take ownership of three functions: (1) DEI, (2) professional development, and (3) recruiting and retention.

Shalanna is creating comprehensive goals for the firm and providing strategic planning, vision, and leadership as she weaves DEI more tightly into the fabric of the firm on a long-term basis. She is overseeing the build-out of a robust professional development program with learning, skill development, career development, coaching, mentorship, feedback, and evaluation opportunities. She is also revamping the firm’s efforts to bring on new attorneys and staff and increase retention rates by building trust and a strong community. She will have the support of the firm’s resources and talent as she advances this mission.

“As our firm grows, I will be constantly thinking about what we need to have in place to support all of our folks and make sure we are considering DEI in every decision – that it flows seamlessly throughout the organization,” Shalanna says. “We are turning our long-term vision into a set of measurable goals to help us get there, and I will bring my passion and fire to every step in this journey.”

About Parker Poe
Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP has more than 250 lawyers in eight offices in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Washington, D.C. The firm provides legal counsel to many of the largest companies and local governments in the Southeast.

Parker Poe is a member of two leading international legal networks: TerraLex and the Employment Law Alliance. TerraLex and the ELA have chosen Parker Poe to help guide clients through the challenges of global business.

AUSTIN – Texas appellate firm Alexander Dubose & Jefferson LLP is pleased to welcome Marisa Cruz Hurd to the firm’s Houston office.

Drawing on her eight-year tenure as a chambers staff attorney at the Fourteenth Court of Appeals in Houston, Ms. Hurd has extensive experience with matters involving civil, criminal and family law appeals, with an emphasis on corporate-facing issues.

“In addition to her stellar research and writing skills, Marisa possesses a unique understanding of the workings of the appeals process from her long tenure with the Fourteenth Court of Appeals, which will undoubtedly be of great benefit to our clients,” said ADJ managing partner Marcy Hogan Greer. “We are fortunate to have her as part of our team.”

Prior to her time at the Fourteenth Court of Appeals, Ms. Hurd was in the litigation section of Baker Botts and clerked for Judge Harold R. DeMoss Jr. of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. She earned her law degree from Stanford Law School, where she was a managing board member and senior book review editor of the Stanford Law Review. She earned her undergraduate degree from Rice University.

“Over the past two years, like many others, I have had the chance to step back and assess what is important to me in my career,” said Ms. Hurd. “The opportunity to move to one of the most prestigious appellate firms in Texas was one that was impossible to resist. I look forward to working with all of the attorneys at ADJ.”

About Alexander Dubose & Jefferson
Attorneys at Alexander Dubose & Jefferson LLP collaborate closely with clients at all stages of litigation. The firm provides multiple layers of experience and expertise, including pretrial strategy to maximize the odds of a favorable outcome at trial; in-trial support including error preservation, issue identification, trial briefing, and jury-charge work, post-trial management, and all aspects of appellate proceedings. The firm has offices in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. In addition to a former Chief Justice and Justice of the Texas Supreme Court, the firm’s lawyers also include a former Justice of the Houston Fourteenth Court of Appeals, and multiple former staff attorneys and law clerks of the Supreme Court of Texas and the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fifth and Sixth Circuits. The firm has numerous lawyers recognized for excellence in Texas appellate law by Chambers USA, America’s Leading Lawyers for Business, Best Lawyers in America, and Texas Super Lawyers. To learn more about Alexander Dubose & Jefferson, visit https://www.adjtlaw.com.

Greensfelder is pleased to announce that attorneys Lauren Daming, Kelsey McGonigle and Chantal Fink Mehill have each been promoted to officer, effective February 1, 2022.

Daming, McGonigle and Mehill are each based in the firm’s St. Louis office.

This marks the second time in two years that Greensfelder has promoted an all-female class of attorneys to officer, fitting with the firm’s core value of promoting equity and removing barriers to success.

“We are very pleased to welcome Lauren, Kelsey and Chantal as new officers,” Greensfelder President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin T. McLaughlin said. “Each of our new officers has made key contributions to the business success of our clients and established herself as a valuable colleague. Their success also helps us take another step forward in the firm’s ongoing commitment to the promotion of women and diverse lawyers into leadership roles.”

A member of the firm’s Employment & Labor practice group, Daming received her J.D. from Washington University School of Law. She represents clients facing issues related to discrimination, leave and accommodations, wage and hour issues, employee benefits, and traditional labor issues. She also counsels employers on privacy issues and is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and a Certified E-Discovery Specialist (CEDS). Daming serves as the firm’s Assistant General Counsel for employment matters.

A member of the firm’s Business Services practice group, McGonigle received her J.D. from William & Mary Law School. Her practice encompasses all aspects of mergers and acquisitions, drawing on her diverse experience in transactions ranging from asset purchases to equity transactions and debt financing. In addition to her M&A practice, she regularly advises closely held businesses on business succession planning and other general business matters including corporate governance and entity formation and dissolution. McGonigle also assists in non-profit formations and mergers.

A member of the firm’s Construction practice group, Mehill received her J.D. from the University of Missouri. She handles a wide range of construction matters, including contract negotiations, early dispute resolution, arbitration, and litigation and has represented owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and designers on a regional and national level. Mehill has experience in all phases of litigation and frequently performs pre-project risk review for client construction contracts. She also has represented businesses in contractual, lending, employment, and real estate matters.

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP is pleased to announce that Emily S. Horn has joined the firm as a partner in the Corporate & Securities Practice Group.

“We are very happy to welcome Emily to Bradley,” said Bradley Chairman of the Board and Managing Partner Jonathan M. Skeeters. “She brings a wealth of experience in corporate and securities matters that will enhance the services we offer our clients in Tennessee and beyond.”

Ms. Horn advises clients on mergers and acquisitions, securities issuances and regulation, the use of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), commercial contracts, corporate governance and general corporate matters. She represents a variety of clients, including corporate ESOP sponsors, ESOP trustees, and public and private companies in the construction, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, aviation, telecommunications, and banking industries. Ms. Horn is a graduate (cum laude) of the University of Georgia School of Law and received her B.S. from the University of Virginia.

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.

Blank Rome LLP is pleased to announce that James H. Adkins has joined the Washington, D.C., office as of counsel in the firm’s national Corporate, M&A, and Securities group, which recently welcomed leading partners Leslie Marlow, Hank Gracin, and Patrick Egan, a New York-based team widely known and respected for their work in corporate and securities law.

James joins Blank Rome from Charleston Area Medical Center, Inc., where he served as associate general counsel. Prior to this role, he practiced law at Steptoe & Johnson, PLLC. At Blank Rome, James concentrates his practice in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, and general transactional matters. He advises clients in the negotiation, documentation, and execution of various corporate transactions and regularly counsels on entity formation and corporate governance matters.

Admitted to practice in West Virginia, James received his J.D. from the University of Dayton School of Law and his B.S., magna cum laude, from West Virginia University. In addition to his legal practice, James serves as a volunteer for Legal Aid and as a civic engagement/community building task group member for The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation.

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP is pleased to announce the arrival of associates Erik M. Coon and David T. Long Jr. to the Washington, D.C. office.

“We are pleased to welcome Erik and David to our firm,” said Bradley Washington, D.C., Office Managing Partner Douglas L. Patin. “Erik’s knowledge of government contracts and procurement processes and David’s experience with financial services industry regulations will serve as a benefit to our clients and expand our D.C. office capabilities.”

Mr. Coon is a member of the firm’s Construction Practice Group, where he represents clients in construction law and litigation matters, particularly in government contract bid protests and disputes in procurement issues. He works within federal jurisdiction to provide strategic advice to contractors, subcontractors, construction managers, sureties, architects, and engineers throughout the United States. His practice resides in the crossroads of business and government and has given him a deep understanding of the significant role that government contracts play in the financial health of many companies. Mr. Coon is a graduate of the George Washington University Law School and received his bachelor’s degree from La Sierra University.

Mr. Long is a member of Bradley’s Banking & Financial Services Practice Group, working with clients on complex matters in both state and federal courts across the country. He tailors his advice to meet the specific needs of his clients, providing counsel to individuals and corporations on their claims and outlines strategies to achieve the best possible outcome. Mr. Long has additional experience collaborating with multinational corporations to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. He is a graduate of the Washington & Lee University School of Law and received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Charleston.

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.

Seasoned Trial Attorneys Denman Heard, Derek Merman Form Heard Merman Law Firm

Attorneys focus on compassionate representation in personal injury disputes

HOUSTON – Veteran trial lawyers and longtime colleagues Denman Heard and Derek Merman have formed Heard Merman, a law firm focused on compassionate and aggressive representation of people catastrophically injured by the negligent actions of others.

Denman Heard and Derek Merman are experienced trial lawyers with a history of securing multimillion-dollar results.

“Derek and I have worked together for years on some of the most significant personal injury cases in the country,” says Denman Heard. “We are ready to take the next big step with the formation of this firm.”

Denman Heard is a nationally recognized trial attorney with 25 years of experience. He has represented thousands of people in personal injury disputes across the country, including leading national trial teams for clients harmed by defective products. He has also represented Fortune 50 and Fortune 500 corporations in business disputes. Denman has secured hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and over a billion dollars in settlements for his clients. He formed Heard Law Firm in 2016.

Derek Merman joined Heard Law Firm in 2019 after working with Denman Heard for years on complex cases across the country. Derek is a nationally recognized trial lawyer with a thriving litigation practice. He is a champion specializing in wrongful death, catastrophic injury, admiralty, aviation, and product defect cases. Derek has won dozens of trials, securing multiple verdicts over $10 million. He prides himself on the personal connection he makes with each client he represents and works tirelessly on their behalf.

“Denman and I have the same focus,” says Derek Merman. “We are committed to helping individuals hurt by the negligence of others. We focus on catastrophic personal injury cases because we have the talent to secure the highest possible recovery that also teaches companies a lesson to prevent people from being injured by the same mistakes again.”

Denman and Derek have earned many accolades, including from Texas Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America.

Heard Merman Law Firm
Heard Merman is dedicated to providing compassionate representation in high-profile personal injury disputes. The firm handles cases involving catastrophic injuries in the workplace, from vehicle crashes, and from dangerous products. Heard Merman also litigates business disputes. Heard Merman is focused on Big Results. Big Impact. Big Referrals. For more information, visit https://www.heardmerman.com/

While the transition to the Biden administration has ushered in many changes—including new policies and initiatives at the U.S. Department of Justice—one thing that remains constant is the DOJ’s reliance on the False Claims Act as a key enforcement tool.

Global law firm Hogan Lovells released the “False Claims Act Guide: 2021 and the Road Ahead,” which looks at key legal developments and how they are likely to impact FCA enforcement in the coming year. The firm also released a series of podcasts in connection with the FCA Guide.

“The Biden Administration has made it clear that deterring corruption and fraud through aggressive enforcement – including the use of the False Claims Act – is a priority,” said partner Anthony Fuller.

Partner Michele Sartori added: “While DOJ renewed its focus on telehealth and cyber-fraud, the courts continued to develop jurisprudence, and sometimes confusion, in the FCA arena.”

Key topics covered by the FCA Guide include:

Healthcare digitization – The implementation of electronic health records and rapid expansion of telemedicine bring heightened enforcement risks.
Cybersecurity – DOJ has intensified its scrutiny of the cybersecurity practices of government contractors and grant recipients.
The Cares Act – Following the $2 trillion in relief provided, we expect to see an uptick in FCA activity as enforcement officials scrutinize the acceptance and use of these funds.
In addition to these topics, the FCA Guide examines legal developments, such as how the evolving standard of materiality is shaping FCA litigation, and the strategic considerations involved in cooperating with the DOJ.

Looking forward, developments on the horizon include the prospect of legislative action.

“Potentially significant amendments to the FCA are being considered in the Senate, which may impact the standard for materiality in FCA cases, and government dismissals, said partner Gejaa Gobena.

Partner David Sharfstein added: “Although the pandemic may again slow some investigations and trials in 2022, we expect the pace of enforcement to pick up on the whole.”

View the FCA Guide here.

Concurrent to the FCA Guide, the firm is launching a series of podcasts featuring discussions with the editors of the Guide:

February 2: Ep. 1 – The Perfect Storm – Moderated by Sartori, and including Gobena and Fuller

February 9: Ep. 2 – Cyber Fraud – Moderated by Sharfstein, and including partner Michael Theis and counsel Stacy Hadeka

February 16: Ep. 3 – Healthcare & Telemedicine – Moderated by Gobena and including Sartori and counsel Allison Caplis

February 23: Ep. 4 – Decisions & Effects – Moderated by Fuller and including partner Jonathan Diesenhaus and counsel Emily Lyons

https://fca-2022.hoganlovellsabc.com/

The International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC) has announced that Angela “Angie” M. Bowlin, a partner at Frilot LLC in New Orleans, Louisiana, has accepted an invitation to join the IADC, the preeminent invitation-only global legal organization for attorneys who represent corporate and insurance interests.

“I am honored to have been selected as a member of IADC and look forward to working on the many important committees related to the law and its many facets,” Ms. Bowlin said.

Ms. Bowlin focuses her practice in the areas of mass tort and class action. She has extensive experience in handling claims related to exposure to asbestos and other toxic tort issues. She has successfully defended clients in claims involving both malignant and non-malignant asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, and other occupational diseases. Her clients have included premises owners, insurers, manufacturers, and distributors.

Ms. Bowlin is a sustaining member of the Junior League of New Orleans, past board chair of both Project Lazarus and Crescent Care, current executive board member of French Quarter Citizens, and member of St. Thomas More Inn of Court.

Recently named a 2022 Louisiana “Super Lawyer” for Class Action/Mass Torts, Ms. Bowlin received her J.D. from Tulane Law School and her Bachelor of Arts from Louisiana State University.

About the International Association of Defense Counsel
The IADC is the preeminent invitation-only global legal organization for attorneys who represent corporate and insurance interests. Founded in 1920, the IADC has members who hail from six continents, 51 countries and territories, and all 50 U.S. states. The core purposes of the IADC are to enhance the development of skills, promote professionalism, and facilitate camaraderie among its members and their clients, as well as the broader civil justice community. For more information, visit www.iadclaw.org.