CHICAGO — iManage has announced major updates to its AI tools, boosts new features designed to make contract review, research, and workflow automation faster, more accurate, and more secure. The enhancements will debut at ILTACON 2025.

The upgrades focus on what the company calls “AI Confidence.” This means all AI outputs are linked to trusted data. That data is explainable, traceable, and stored securely in iManage Cloud.

This approach aims to help legal and business professionals get clear, defensible answers from AI while keeping sensitive information protected.

Three Key Advancements

Model Context Protocol (MCP) Support: This new integration standard allows customers to connect any MCP-compatible AI app directly to iManage Cloud. This will give users more choice in AI tools without custom integrations.

Enhanced Insight+ Search: Upgrades to iManage’s search engine. Let users ask questions in plain language, uncover hidden trends, and get contextual answers from across their organization’s documents.

Advanced AI Assistant Features: The “Ask iManage” tool now supports multi-turn conversations for deeper research and includes inline citations so users can instantly verify sources.

Real-World Impact

Clients like law firm Bracewell say these updates have made AI more practical for day-to-day legal work, helping with tasks like security reviews, litigation research, and summarizing complex documents.

New Search Power

With the Insight+ upgrade, professionals can quickly find information such as which lawyers have the best track records in specific jurisdictions or which documents match a certain legal strategy. A new “Matter Search” feature links documents to related business data, making it easier to analyze profitability and success rates.

Open Ecosystem for AI

By supporting MCP, iManage enables third-party AI agents to coordinate multi-step workflows across different platforms. These include reviewing contracts, assigning follow-up tasks, and scheduling meetings. All activities maintain strict security and ethical controls.

“Our goal is to make AI both powerful and trustworthy,” said Neil Araujo, CEO of iManage. “By integrating intelligence into tools people already use, like Microsoft 365, we help professionals work smarter without disrupting their routines.”

DENVER — Frost Brown Todd adds attorney/litigator Kevin Havelda as a partner in its Business Litigation Practice Group in Denver. Havelda returns to the firm where he began his legal career, having previously worked in its Lexington, Kentucky, office.

Havelda represents clients in a wide range of legal disputes, including business and employment matters, medical licensure issues, and insurance defense. He also advises employers on contracts and compliance to help avoid future legal problems.

“As Denver’s business landscape continues to grow, Kevin’s experience and deep ties in Colorado will be a great asset to our clients,” said John Kellogg. He is a managing partner of the Denver office. “His return is part of our plan to strengthen our presence in the region.”

The Denver office opened in 2024 and serves as a hub for Frost Brown Todd’s expansion in the Rocky Mountain region.
Havelda said he’s excited to rejoin the firm that helped shape his early career. “It’s great to be back at FBT and to work with such a strong team again,” he said. “This is the ideal place to grow my practice and support clients with complex legal needs.”

Havelda holds a law degree from the University of Kentucky, a master’s in education from Hunter College, and a bachelor’s degree from Centre College. He clerked for U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom and currently serves as an elected school board director in Colorado’s Poudre School District.

NASHVILLE — Womble Bond Dickinson is significantly expanding its presence in Nashville with the addition of 20 attorneys, including 15 partners, from local firm Neal & Harwell. The move strengthens Womble’s litigation and disputes capabilities, especially in commercial and complex matters.

“This is a big step forward for our firm,” said Merrick Benn, Chair and CEO of Womble (U.S.). “These attorneys bring decades of experience across trial law, entertainment litigation, appellate work, corporate finance, and real estate. Their skills and strong reputations will boost the service we offer clients nationwide.”

Eighteen of the new lawyers are joining Womble’s Business Litigation Group, while two will support the Finance, Bankruptcy & Restructuring team. The group includes well-known names in the legal community, such as Bill Ramsey, Phil Elbert, Ron Harris, and Jim Sanders—each with decades of trial experience and leadership in high-profile cases.

“These attorneys are not only accomplished in the courtroom but are also deeply connected to the Nashville community,” said Josh Mullen, managing partner of Womble’s Nashville office. “They bring strong client relationships and civic involvement that align with our firm’s values.”

Bill Ramsey, one of the new partners, called the move a “new chapter” that allows the team to grow under a national platform while continuing the legacy of legendary trial lawyer Jim Neal. “We’re excited to keep working together with greater reach and resources,” he said.

The expansion follows Womble’s recent merger with Lewis Roca, growing the firm to more than 1,300 attorneys across 37 offices in the U.S. and UK.

See Also: In June, Foley also expands its firm in Nashville with three partners.

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — FiveStar Gourmet Foods, the company behind the Simply Fresh brand, has appointed Liz Atlee as its new General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer.

Atlee brings over two decades of legal and compliance experience, most recently serving as SVP and Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer at CBRE. In that role, she led global programs across more than 100 countries. There, she focus on risk management, cybersecurity, litigation, and corporate governance.

“Liz is a smart and respected legal leader who will strengthen our executive team and board,” said Tal Shoshan, CEO of FiveStar. “Her experience will help guide us as we grow and protect the reputation of our brand.”

Atlee earned her undergraduate degree from Yale and her law degree from USC. She also teaches corporate ethics and compliance at USC Law and serves on several nonprofit and corporate boards.

At FiveStar, Atlee will also serve as Corporate Secretary to the Board of Directors. She will lead the company’s efforts in governance and regulatory compliance. Her arrival comes as FiveStar opens a new production and distribution facility in Southern California. This is designed to support the nationwide rollout of its fresh food offerings.

“Joining FiveStar is a chance to be part of something meaningful,” said Atlee. “I’m excited to support the company’s mission and contribute to its next phase of growth.”

About FiveStar Gourmet Foods

FiveStar Gourmet Foods, home of Simply Fresh, is a leader in fresh, innovative meal solutions with a focus on culinary creativity, food safety, and premium quality across retail and foodservice.

Recently, an AI-powered provider, Datasite also appoints a Mathnew Steinhilber as General Counsel.

MINNEAPOLIS — Datasite, a global provider of AI-powered tools for mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic business projects, has appointed Matthew Steinhilber as its new General Counsel.

In this role, Steinhilber will lead the company’s global legal operations, including litigation, intellectual property, corporate governance, and business matters. He will report directly to President and CEO Rusty Wiley.

Steinhilber brings more than 20 years of legal and leadership experience. He has previously served as General Counsel for ACA Group and, most recently, at Blueflame AI—a provider of AI solutions for financial services companies that Datasite recently acquired.

His appointment reflects Datasite’s commitment to strengthening its legal function as technology, business strategy, and compliance continue to converge.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Muhlenberg College and a law degree from the University of Maryland School of Law.

About Datasite

Datasite is a global SaaS provider of AI-powered workflow collaboration and automation solutions for M&A, investment, and strategic projects. Datasite’s innovative products drive execution while generating unique data insights that empower knowledge workers around the world to succeed across the entire project lifecycle.

For more information, visit www.datasite.com.

BELLEVUE, Wash. & NEW YORK — Icertis and Dioptra have team up to speed contract review faster and more accurate using AI. The two companies are combining their technologies to help legal teams handle contracts more efficiently and reduce risk.

The partnership brings together Icertis’ AI tools, explicitly built for contracts, with Dioptra’s redlining software. This combo helps legal teams automatically review and edit contracts in line with company policies known as “playbooks” saving time on routine work while flagging risks in more complex deals.

As demand for legal services grows and corporate risk rises, legal departments are looking for smarter ways to manage contracts. With this new toolset, legal teams can focus more on essential negotiations and spend less time on repetitive tasks.

“Legal teams need to do more with less, and AI can help,” said Sudarshan Chitre, Senior VP of AI at Icertis. “Our partnership with Dioptra lets us offer powerful AI tools that improve contract accuracy and speed.”

Farah Gasmi, co-founder of Dioptra, said the partnership allows companies to move faster without changing their existing processes. “Our AI builds on what teams already use, making contracts quicker and safer to review,” she said.

Icertis is known for its AI-powered platform that helps businesses maximize the value of their contracts. At the same time, law firms and in-house legal teams use Dioptra to automate early-stage contract reviews.

SEATTLE & PORTLAND — Law firm Buchalter has added two experienced real estate attorneys, Ian Taylor and Michelle Da Rosa, as shareholders in its Pacific Northwest offices. Taylor joins the firm in Seattle, while Da Rosa is based in Portland. Both will be part of the firm’s Real Estate Practice Group.

“Ian and Michelle bring valuable experience in handling complex real estate deals,” said Buchalter President and CEO Adam Bass. “They will strengthen our capabilities in the region and support our clients’ growing needs.”

Taylor represents both public and private clients in lease negotiations for a variety of properties, including office space, retail sites, cell towers, and marinas. He also handles purchase and sale agreements, easements, and eminent domain matters. He offers regulatory advice especially in niche areas like airport facility leasing.

“The entrepreneurial approach at Buchalter fits well with how I work,” said Taylor. “I’m excited to contribute to the firm’s real estate practice.”

Da Rosa’s work spans both traditional real estate deals and renewable energy projects. She advises developers and clients in industries like solar, wind, natural gas, and hospitality. Her practice includes affordable housing, commercial leasing, and clearing up title issues. She is also recognized as a leading attorney in Oregon for condominium and master-planned developments.

“I’m happy to join Buchalter and continue supporting clients in their real estate and energy projects,” Da Rosa said. “The firm’s collaborative culture is a great fit for my practice.”

Bass noted that the firm is seeing growing demand for real estate expertise in the region and expects both attorneys to thrive with the support of Buchalter’s national platform.

Read Also:

Buchalter added White Collar Attorney Michael Kilgarriff in Denver office.

DENVER — Buchalter has brought on experienced attorney Michael “Mike” Kilgarriff as a shareholder in its White Collar & Investigations group. Based in Denver, Kilgarriff will also serve as co-chair of the firm’s State Attorneys General practice.

Kilgarriff advises clients in highly regulated industries, including financial services, fintech, and cryptocurrency. He assists companies in handling government investigations, responding to subpoenas, and defending against legal actions from state and federal authorities.

He has worked with nearly every state attorney general in the U.S., except those in Wyoming. He has played a key role in significant multistate enforcement actions, including one involving 39 states. His background also includes negotiating resolutions and representing companies in complex regulatory disputes.

“I’m excited to help lead the State AG group and grow the firm’s white collar defense work,” Kilgarriff said. “Buchalter’s strong team and commitment to high-quality client service make this a great fit.”

Firm leadership welcomed the move, noting Kilgarriff’s practical experience and national reputation as a strong asset. “His knowledge in this space enhances our capabilities both in Colorado and across the country,” said Robert Hinckley, who leads the firm’s Denver office.

Related Articles

1. Buchalter’s expansion and relocation of its Denver office with the vision of the firm’s continue growth.
2. Buchalter continues its expansion with the addition of Cara Thornton in the firm as a Shareholder in the Denver office.

SILICON VALLEY — Eversheds Sutherland has expanded its presence in California with a new office in Silicon Valley and the addition of seasoned trial lawyer Bradford Newman.

Newman, a well-known name in technology law, joins the firm as Head of Complex Technology Disputes (U.S.) and a partner in the Litigation Practice Group. He brings deep experience in handling trade secret cases and advising on emerging technology issues, including artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, decentralized finance (DeFi), and digital evidence.

His move is part of the firm’s larger plan to grow in California and better serve its tech clients, especially those in the Bay Area. The Silicon Valley office follows the firm’s 2022 launch in San Francisco.

“Opening a Silicon Valley office and bringing Bradford on board strengthens our ability to help clients in major innovation hubs,” said Lino Mendiola, Global Co-CEO of Eversheds Sutherland.

Newman has served as lead counsel in high-stakes cases and works closely with clients in the tech, life sciences, and financial services sectors. He also acts as outside general counsel to a DeFi organization. His hiring is one of the first significant steps under the leadership of U.S. Litigation Co-Heads Michael Bahar and Kym Kochis.

“Bradford is a top-tier litigator with strong roots in Silicon Valley and the TMT sector,” said Bahar and Kochis. “He’s exactly who we need to grow our litigation team on the West Coast.”

Newman said he is excited to join the firm and lead the new office, calling it an excellent opportunity to expand Eversheds Sutherland’s reach in the tech sector.

NEW YORK — Katten has added Loren R. Lembo as a partner in its Transactional Tax Planning practice, expanding the firm’s capabilities in New York.

Lembo brings extensive experience advising on complex U.S. and international tax matters, particularly for financial services clients. She helps fund sponsors and managers with tax strategies for private equity and hedge funds, from formation to exit. She also advises institutional investors and sovereign wealth funds on the tax side of their investments.

“Loren strengthens our ability to deliver strategic, tax-efficient solutions for our clients,” said Saul Rudo, who leads Katten’s Transactional Tax Planning practice.

Lembo also counsels clients on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, joint ventures, and financing deals. She previously worked at two of the country’s top law firms and remains actively involved in pro bono work, assisting charities with their tax-exempt status applications.

“We’re thrilled to have Loren join us at our Rockefeller Center office,” said Wendy Cohen, managing partner of Katten’s New York office. “Her experience in handling complex tax issues further boosts the strength of our New York team.”

Katten is a global law firm with approximately 700 attorneys across the U.S., London, and Shanghai, offering a range of legal services including corporate, finance, tax, litigation, real estate, and more.

See Also: Loren R. Hulse to the firm’s Salt Lake City office in the firm’s Intellectual Property practice.

DALLAS — Crawford, Wishnew & Lang, a Dallas-based litigation firm, has welcomed attorney David Akere to its legal team.
Akere, a Dallas native, brings experience in commercial and real estate litigation, as well as labor, employment, and sports law.

He joins the firm with a strong trial background and a drive to win cases for his clients.

He earned his law degree from UCLA and graduated with honors in Government from Georgetown University, where he also captained the Division I football team for two seasons. Akere has lived in Lagos and London, giving him a broad perspective, and is conversational in Spanish.

Founding partner Dave Wishnew called Akere a “fantastic hire,” citing his talent and experience as a strong asset for the firm and its clients.

Akere said he is excited to be part of a dedicated and competitive team focused on client success.

Read Also:

1. Blank Rome welcomes litigators David and Megan to Dallas office.
2. Joining of Elizabeth La Rocca to Frost Todd as partner in Dallas.

CHICAGO — Michael Owen, a longtime corporate attorney with more than three decades of experience, has joined Dykema as Senior Counsel in its Corporate Finance Group. He will be based in the firm’s Chicago office.

Owen advises clients on a wide range of financial matters, including loans, debt and equity deals, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. He also helps clients navigate complex issues, such as bankruptcy, restructuring, and creditor actions. In his previous roles, he has frequently served as the de facto general counsel, advising executives on business strategy and legal matters.

Before joining Dykema, Owen practiced at several Chicago law firms, most recently Gozdecki Del Giudice and Perkins Coie.
Owen has chaired the Chicago Bar Association’s Commercial Finance and Transactions Committee. He has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America every year since 2009. He earned his law degree from Indiana University and his bachelor’s from Northwestern University.

Read Also: Former U.S. Attorney for Southern California, Tara McGrath, joins Perkins Coie in the Litigation practice as a partner in San Diego.

About Dykema

Dykema says Owen’s deep experience in financial transactions and business law will strengthen its team and benefit its clients. The firm has offices in 13 U.S. cities and works with companies of all sizes on complex legal challenges.

Foley & Lardner LLP has appointed Matt Caplan as a partner in its Commercial Litigation Practice Group in San Francisco, further expanding its presence in California’s technology and health care sectors.

Caplan joins Foley from Cooley LLP, bringing experience in trade secrets, class actions, intellectual property, corporate governance, and M&A-related litigation. He regularly represents technology and health care companies, including startups, in complex legal disputes.

His appointment is part of Foley’s ongoing expansion in California, with Caplan being the eighth partner to join the firm’s California offices in the past three months and the fourth in Northern California. The firm aims to enhance its capabilities in litigation, corporate law, and intellectual property across key growth markets.

Lisa Noller, chair of Foley’s Litigation Department, said Caplan’s expertise will add depth to the firm’s national litigation practice. Thomas Carlucci, managing partner of Foley’s Northern California offices, noted the move aligns with the firm’s strategic focus on the Bay Area and high-growth sectors.

Caplan said he looks forward to joining a national platform while continuing to serve innovative clients in the tech and health care industries.

About Foley and Lardner LLP

Foley & Lardner has more than 1,100 lawyers in 27 offices worldwide, advising clients across energy, health care, life sciences, technology, and manufacturing sectors.

Foley & Lardner LLP is pleased to announce that David Morris has joined its Salt Lake City office. He will serve as a partner in the Taxation Practice Group. Morris joins the firm from Kirkland & Ellis LLP. There, he advised private equity sponsors and corporate clients on a wide range of complex transactional tax matters.

With over a decade of experience, Morris specializes in both domestic and cross-border tax issues. His expertise includes mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, recapitalizations, debt and equity financings, and internal restructurings.

“David’s transactional experience and industry expertise make him a strong addition to our team,” said Timothy Voigtman, chair of Foley’s Taxation Practice Group. “His arrival enhances our tax capabilities and strengthens the comprehensive services we provide to clients nationwide. We’re excited to welcome him to the firm.”

Morris also regularly advises investment funds, portfolio companies, and emerging growth businesses on transaction-specific issues and tax planning. He has worked with clients across a wide range of industries, including software, financial services, energy, and manufacturing.

“We continue to invest in the growth of our Salt Lake City office. David’s addition is a key step in expanding our capabilities in the region,” said Monica Call, managing partner of Foley’s Salt Lake City office. “His experience in tax and complex deal structuring enhances our services to clients in Utah and nationwide. David is a great fit for our collaborative culture.”

“Foley’s national platform, talented team, and integrated client service approach made it the ideal fit for my practice,” said Morris. “I’m excited to join the growing Salt Lake City team and contribute to the firm’s continued success.”

Since its opening in 2021, Foley’s Salt Lake City office has expanded to 33 attorneys, providing comprehensive counsel in corporate, intellectual property, and litigation matters. The office serves clients across key sectors such as Innovative Technology, Health Care & Life Sciences, Energy & Infrastructure, and Manufacturing.

1. Foley & Lardner adds three new partners in New York and Raleigh.
2. Foley & Lardner announced the expansion of its partners in California.

HOUSTON, July 8, 2025 – Beck Redden LLP proudly welcomes Chris Dove as Of Counsel in its nationally recognized Appellate practice. Dove brings nearly 25 years of experience in complex appellate advocacy, having argued over 40 appeals in state and federal courts across the United States. He joins the firm from Troutman Pepper Locke.

Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Dove focuses on high-stakes commercial litigation, with an emphasis on the energy, financial services, and maritime sectors.

“Chris is an outstanding addition to our team,” said Russell S. Post, Chair of Beck Redden’s Appellate Practice. “His deep experience with complex appellate cases, particularly in Texas and nationwide, will be a great asset to our clients. He’s a respected member of the appellate bar, a trusted former co-counsel, and a friend to many at the firm. We’re excited to welcome him.”

Beck Redden’s approach integrates trial and appellate expertise, enabling attorneys to collaborate from the outset of a case. This strategy aligns with Dove’s practice philosophy working closely with trial teams early to preserve error and ensure a strong foundation for appeal.

“I’ve long admired Beck Redden’s reputation for excellence and its consistent success in high-impact appeals,” said Dove. “This move is a natural fit. The firm’s culture, commitment to strategic advocacy, and collaborative approach mirror my values. I look forward to contributing to its continued success.”

Dove joins a distinguished appellate group that includes multiple board-certified lawyers and former clerks from the U.S. Courts of Appeals, the Supreme Court of Texas, and Texas appellate courts. He earned his J.D. with the highest honors from the University of Texas School of Law. He clerked for the Hon. William Garwood on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
In Chambers USA, Super Lawyers, and The Best Lawyers in America recongnizes him for his excellence in appellate law.

About Beck Redden LLP

Beck Redden LLP is a Houston-based litigation firm known for handling complex legal disputes across industries. The firm’s practice areas include energy, oil and gas, antitrust, product liability, securities, insurance coverage, environmental litigation, legal and accounting malpractice, and intellectual property.

Related Articles:

1. Sidley joins new M&A partner George Hunter in the New York.
2. Dykema has announced that Jason Paul Blair joins its Trademark Practice Group as a Member in the firm’s Austin office after 3 years.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Donald C. Dowling and Nathan J. Oleson, shareholders at labor and employment law firm Littler, have been elected as fellows of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. Their formal induction will take place on November 15, 2025, during the ABA Labor and Employment Law Conference in Denver.

The College honors attorneys who have made significant contributions to the field of labor and employment law. Being elected as a fellow is a top professional recognition, reflecting years of impactful work and commitment to the legal profession.

Dowling is a leading voice in international employment law, advising multinational companies on global HR strategies and compliance. He has authored influential writings on labor law and helped shape how companies handle employment issues across international borders.

Dowling graduated from University of Florida College of Law in J.D. and A.B. from the University of Chicago.

Oleson is recognized for his expertise in complex workplace cases, including wage and hour disputes, discrimination claims, and class actions. He has also advised sports organizations and universities on legal issues involving athletes and officials. Oleson has contributed to key legal texts and helped set precedents in sports and labor law.

He got his J.D., magna cum laude, from Georgetown University Law Center and his B.A., cum laude, from American University.

Littler’s managing director, Erin Webber, said the honor highlights the high standards and leadership both attorneys bring to the firm.

For more information, visit www.littler.com.

June 2, 2025, Norton Rose Fulbright, a global law firm, continues to expand its California presence with the addition of William (Bill) B. Tate II, a seasoned real estate partner. With decades of experience, Bill’s expertise encompasses a wide range of complex transactions, including movie studio developments, joint ventures, and IRS Section 1031 exchanges.

Bill joins the firm’s Los Angeles office from K&L Gates. He brings valuable regional insight and expertise. This will help enhance Norton Rose Fulbright’s California real estate practice.

“We are excited to welcome Bill as a leader,” said Jeff Cody, the firm’s US Managing Partner and Global Co-Managing Partner. “He will play a key role in driving our real estate strategy on the West Coast. As California experiences a resurgence in development, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors, Bill’s guidance will be crucial. His expertise will help address the growing demand for legal counsel, driven by ambitious climate and housing goals.”

Bill’s practice spans nearly every aspect of real estate. He advises on high-stakes acquisitions, leasing, development, and financing for various properties. These include commercial, industrial, hospitality, and multitenant spaces. His expertise spans from movie studios and medical office campuses to senior living facilities. Bill also has extensive experience in credit facilities, joint ventures, and tenancy-in-common structures. This makes him a well-rounded practitioner in one of the nation’s most complex legal landscapes.

“California’s real estate laws and regulations are intricate and require deep understanding,” said John Jennings, US Head of Real Estate at Norton Rose Fulbright. “Bill’s broad transactional experience and in-depth knowledge of California’s unique real estate laws will be invaluable. His expertise will support clients as they seize opportunities across the state.”

Bill’s arrival follows the recent addition of litigator David Bournazian to the firm’s Los Angeles office.

“Norton Rose Fulbright’s reputation for excellence in legal services is unmatched,” Bill said. “I am excited to join a team that shares a commitment to delivering the highest standards of service and fostering strong camaraderie among its lawyers.”

Norton Rose Fulbright’s real estate practice now includes nearly 50 lawyers in the US. It is consistently recognized as a nationwide leader in The Legal 500 United States. The practice is part of the firm’s broader business group. This group has welcomed more than 40 new partners globally this year through promotion or lateral hiring.

Related Articles:

Expansion of Blank Rome with the addition of Sarah M. Luetto as partner in Los Angeles.

Buchalter is proud to announce three new leadership appointments within the firm. The new Administrative Chair of the Intellectual Property Practice Group is Amanda Hyland. Leah Lively has been appointed Chair of the Litigation Department in the Portland office. Steve Segal is the new Chair of the Corporate Practice in the Denver office.

“We are excited to elevate Amanda, Leah, and Steve to these important leadership roles,” said Adam Bass, President and CEO of Buchalter. “Their deep experience and commitment to client service make them invaluable leaders who will guide the future of our firm.”

Amanda Hyland, a Shareholder in Buchalter’s Atlanta office, is a nationally recognized intellectual property attorney. She advises clients on trademark and copyright matters, brand enforcement, media law, and portfolio strategy. Her clients include Fortune 100 companies, publishers, influencers, and global consumer brands. A skilled litigator and trusted advisor, Amanda has earned recognition from Chambers USA, World Trademark Review, and Best Lawyers in America. She is also a member of INTA’s Leadership Development Committee and the past President of the Atlanta Intellectual Property Inn of Court.

“I’m excited to support the continued success of our IP group,’ said Amanda. “With our talented team across multiple offices, I look forward to strengthening collaboration and enhancing the support we provide to our clients.”

Leah Lively, a Shareholder in the Portland office, is a seasoned trial attorney with more than 20 years of experience in employment litigation. She represents employers in harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and wage and hour class actions. Leah also advises clients on compliance, investigations, and risk management. Known for her strategic approach and client-focused solutions, Leah is a well-respected figure in employment law.

“It’s an honor to take on this leadership role,” said Leah. “Our Portland office has a team of talented attorneys and exceptional litigators. I look forward to building on our strong foundation to continue delivering excellent service and results for our clients.”

Steve Segal, a Shareholder in Buchalter’s Denver office, is a key member of the Corporate Law Practice Group. He advises clients on mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, fund formation, and commercial transactions. Steve frequently serves as outside general counsel, guiding clients from formation to exit. His expertise in M&A and securities law has earned recognition from Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers.

“It’s a privilege to support our corporate team in Denver,” said Steve. “We work with innovative, fast-moving clients, and I’m passionate to helping them navigate each stage of growth with tailored legal strategies.”

“These appointments demonstrate our commitment to growth, “added Adam Bass. “We’re expanding our geographic reach while strengthening leadership across our core practice areas. Amanda, Leah, and Steve bring unique perspectives that will help us continue building a cohesive, forward-thinking team across the firm.”

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Recently, Buchalter also expanded the firm with the Shareholder, Cara Thornton in Denver office.

Noel Cook Joins Buchalter as Shareholder in San Francisco.

Buchalter is excited to announce that Cara Thornton has joined the firm as a Shareholder in the Denver office. As a member of the firm’s Litigation Practice Group, Cara brings over 20 years of experience in complex commercial, employment, and intellectual property (IP) litigation, handling matters in courts and arbitration nationwide.

“Cara is an experienced and skilled litigator, and we are thrilled to have her join our Denver team,” said Adam Bass, President and CEO of Buchalter. “Her diverse background, including private practice and government service, makes her an invaluable asset to our litigation team and the firm overall.”

Cara Thornton has a proven track record in managing complex disputes from start to finish, with extensive experience in business, employment, and IP litigation. She also offers strategic trademark advice, covering brand management, prosecution, and enforcement, including representation before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) and in federal court.

In addition to her litigation expertise, Cara acts as outside general counsel for startups and mid-sized companies across various industries. She advises on daily legal operations, employment issues, contract negotiations, and safeguarding proprietary information and trade secrets.

“Buchalter’s entrepreneurial culture and strong national presence were key factors in my decision to join the firm,” said Thornton. “I look forward to expanding my practice with a team that shares my commitment to providing high-quality, business-focused legal counsel.”

Before joining Buchalter, Cara was Assistant Attorney General for Yap State, Federated States of Micronesia. There, she advised the Governor on policy and legislative issues and handled the State’s civil litigation.

“Cara is an excellent addition to our growing Denver office,” said Robert Hinckley, Office Managing Shareholder of Buchalter’s Denver office. “Her litigation expertise and trusted counsel on everyday business matters are tremendous assets for our clients.”

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Buchalter’s expansion in Denver follows a series of moves in other key markets. In a similar move, Noel Cook Joins Buchalter as Shareholder in San Francisco, another addition to the firm’s leadership team.

Related to Legal Firm Expansions:

As part of Buchalter’s national strategy, Cara Thornton’s addition complements other recent hires, including Tom Posey in Chicago & Los Angeles, to expand the firm’s presence across the U.S.

Buchalter proudly welcomes Noel Cook as a Shareholder in its San Francisco office. A respected leader in intellectual property law, he joins the firm’s Intellectual Property Practice Group, focusing on trademark and copyright enforcement, litigation, counseling, prosecution, and licensing.

“Noel is a terrific addition to our nationally recognized Intellectual Property group,” said Adam Bass, President and CEO of Buchalter. “His outstanding experience and trademark and copyright law reputation will seamlessly enhance and expand our capabilities.”

Cook brings deep expertise in protecting and enforcing trademarks, designs, images, and creative content. He counsels clients across retail, technology, outdoor goods, furniture and product design, character merchandising, music, and food and beverage industries.

“Buchalter’s national platform and top-tier IP practice were key reasons I joined,” said Cook. “The firm’s resources and reputation will help me grow my practice and better serve my clients.”

Cook recognized as a thought leader in IP law, he serves on the Board of Trustees of the Copyright Society of the USA and recently completed a term on the Board of Directors of the International Trademark Association (INTA). He is a longtime member of INTA’s Panel of Mediators. Moreover, he is also a frequent speaker on internet infringement, product design protection, and IP damages. In 2017, he co-authored a U.S. Supreme Court amicus brief for INTA.

Noel’s arrival strengthens our San Francisco office and our IP team,” said Matthew Covington, Office Managing Shareholder. “His trademark and copyright expertise will bring significant value to our clients.”

About Buchalter

Buchalter is a full-service business law firm with around 550 attorneys. These spread across offices in California, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, and Washington. The firm serves local, regional, national, and international clients. These include banking and finance, corporate law, health care, litigation, insolvency and financial law, intellectual property, labor and employment, real estate, and tax and estate planning.

Learn more at buchalter.com.

Related Articles in the Legal Industry:

Buchalter continues to strengthen its leadership team across the country, as seen in their recent hire of Cara Thornton as a Shareholder in the Denver Office.

Firm Expansion and Growth:

Following the trend of legal firms making strategic hires, Buchalter’s latest expansion in San Francisco mirrors the firm’s previous moves in Chicago & Los Angeles, where Tom Posey joined as a shareholder.