Buchalter is excited to announce that Tom Posey has joined the firm as a Shareholder in both the Chicago and Los Angeles offices. Additionally, Posey will lead the firm’s Labor Management Relations Group as its National Chair.

“We are delighted to welcome Tom to Buchalter, especially as we continue to grow our Chicago office,” said Adam Bass, Buchalter’s President and CEO. His extensive experience in labor negotiations and relations will be invaluable to our clients nationwide, and we’re excited to have him join our team as we expand in Chicago.”

With decades of experience, Posey advises and represents employers in various labor matters, including negotiations, employment litigation, and management-side workplace issues. He serves clients across multiple industries, such as hospitality, manufacturing, healthcare, construction, entertainment, and transportation.

“Buchalter’s entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative culture made this an easy decision for me,” Posey said. “I’m thrilled to lead the Labor Management Relations Group and to continue helping employers navigate the complex and ever-changing labor landscape.”

In his role, Posey will handle high-stakes collective bargaining as chief labor negotiator, grievance arbitrations, unfair labor practice proceedings, and union organizing response strategies. He also guides labor and employment considerations related to mergers, acquisitions, and real estate transactions. His practice spans federal and state court litigation, and he advises and trains employers in unionized environments.

“Tom is a tremendous addition to our nationally recognized labor and employment platform,” said Tom Jefson, Managing Shareholder of Buchalter’s Chicago office. “We are excited to have him as part of our team.”

Growth Across Key Markets:

As part of Buchalter’s broader expansion strategy, Tom Posey’s addition in both Chicago and Los Angeles reflects similar efforts seen in other offices, such as Cara Thornton’s recent addition to Denver.

Strategic Hiring and Growth:

Building on their recent expansion, the firm also welcomed Noel Cook as a Shareholder in San Francisco, highlighting their commitment to strengthening leadership in all major U.S. markets.

(June 18, 2025) — More than 50 attorneys from Littler, the world’s largest labor and employment law firm representing management, have been recognized in the 2026 editions of Best Lawyers® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in France and Germany.

Littler Attorneys Featured in Best Lawyers® 2026

France:

• Guillaume Desmoulin (Office Managing Shareholder)
• Christine Aranda (Partner)
• Julie Béot-Rabiot (Partner)
• Jean-Martial Buisson (Partner)
• Sabrina Dougados (Partner)
• Jacques de Tonquédec (Partner)

Germany:

• Alexander Bartz (Partner)
• Jan-Ove Becker (Partner)
• Tobias Berdesinski (Partner)
• Frauke Biester-Junker (Partner)
• Christoph Crisolli (Partner)
• Jan Einhaus (Partner)
• Dr. Thomas Griebe (Partner)
• Oliver Grimm (Partner)
• Rajko Herrmann (Partner)
• Sebastian Juli (Partner)
• Matthias Kast (Partner)
• Dennis Lüers (Partner)
• Philipp Meese (Partner)
• Antje Peterhänsel (Partner)
• Stefan Röhrborn (Partner)
• Matthias Sandmaier (Partner)
• Stephan Settekorn (Partner)
• Julia Viohl (Partner)
• Frank Zaumseil (Partner)
• Peter Hoppenstaedt (Of Counsel)

Littler Attorneys Named to Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® 2026

This list highlights early-career attorneys for their outstanding work in specific practice areas.

France:

• Vivia Correia (Partner)
• Camille-Antoine Donzel (Partner)
• Laura Jousselin (Partner)
• Barbara Mollet (Partner)
• Lauriane Morette (Partner)
• Léa Rameau (Partner)
• Jennifer Dinh (Associate)
• Foucauld du Pradel (Associate)
• Rachida Zahnoun (Associate)

Germany:

• Tobias Brinkmann (Partner)
• Esther Dehmel (Partner)
• Andre Gieseler (Partner)
• Ferdinand Hultzsch (Partner)
• Christoph Kaul (Partner)
• Stephanie Koch (Partner)
• Lioba Lamers (Partner)
• Dagmar Lessnau (Partner)
• Matthias Pallentin (Partner)
• Hannes Barck (Senior Associate)
• Kaya Räuker (Senior Associate)
• Alexander Steven (Senior Associate)
• Christina Stogov (Senior Associate)
• Christopher Weuthen (Senior Associate)
• Inken Brandt (Associate)
• Sebastian Beckerle (Counsel)
• Stefanie Reiche (Counsel)
• Insa Ritter (Counsel)
• Ulrike Schulke (Counsel)
• Malte Schürmann (Counsel)

About Best Lawyers®

Attorneys selected for Best Lawyers® lists are chosen through a peer-review process. Legal professionals in the same region and practice area evaluate nominees for their skills, integrity, and experience.

About Littler

Littler is a leading global employment and labor law firm with more than 1,800 attorneys across offices worldwide. We provide tailored workplace solutions that are local and global. Our diverse team and innovative technology drive forward-thinking strategies that help employers navigate today’s challenges and prepare for the future.

Learn more at www.littler.com.

Frost Brown Todd (FBT) has added Michele Levinson as a partner in its Product, Tort, and Insurance Litigation practice group in Los Angeles, California.

Levinson brings a wealth of experience representing insurers, nonprofits, and public entities in various legal matters. Her expertise spans automobile claims, first-party property, insurance bad faith litigation, personal injury defense, subrogation, and examinations under oath. She has also handled business and probate disputes, general tort liability, and labor and employment discrimination cases. Levinson has appeared before California state courts, the California Courts of Appeal, and the U.S. District Courts for the Central, Eastern, and Southern Districts of California.

“Michele’s broad expertise in complex insurance matters significantly enhances our team,” said Jeremiah Byrne, Chair of FBT’s Product, Tort, & Insurance Litigation Practice Group. “Her extensive experience defending clients in both public and private sector litigation makes her an invaluable resource for organizations facing California’s evolving risk challenges.”

Before attending law school, Levinson gained industry experience as a senior claims examiner for Safeco, a Liberty Mutual company, and as a claims examiner for the 21st Century, which is now part of Farmers Insurance Company.

“I’m excited to join Frost Brown Todd’s national platform and leverage its robust litigation capabilities to grow my practice further,” Levinson said. “I look forward to continuing to provide results-oriented counsel across a wide range of insurance and litigation matters.”

Levinson holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Northridge, and a Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law. She has also served on the Board of Directors for the Southern California Chapter of the International Association of Special Investigative Units.

BOSTON, June 2025 — Fenwick has announced the continued expansion of its Boston office with the addition of Jim Hauser as a partner in the firm’s Executive Compensation and Employee Benefits practice.

Hauser brings decades of experience advising technology and life sciences companies, investors, and executives on compensation planning across all stages of growth. From early-stage startups to mature public companies, he has guided clients through key inflection points, including IPOs, M&A transactions, and leadership transitions.

At Fenwick, Hauser will work closely with clients to develop customized executive compensation and benefits strategies that meet the evolving demands of innovation-driven businesses. His practice includes:

• Designing and negotiating executive and equity compensation plans
• Advising on corporate governance and regulatory compliance
• Navigating compensation-related issues during mergers and acquisitions
• Addressing complex tax rules, including Sections 280G and 409A
• Providing insights into ERISA matters, particularly in private equity and fund contexts

“Jim’s addition reflects our strategic focus on building a strong, multidisciplinary corporate team in Boston,” said Richard Dickson, Fenwick’s firmwide chair. “His deep expertise in executive compensation and employee benefits enhances the value we bring to clients in this fast-evolving market.”

“We are excited to welcome Jim,” added Alan Smith, Chair of Fenwick’s Corporate Group. “His experience advising high-growth companies in technology and life sciences further strengthens our ability to help clients recruit, retain, and reward their top talent.”

Hauser joins Fenwick’s growing Boston office, which launched earlier this year with a dedicated life sciences intellectual property team, including IP partners Drs. Matthew Pavao, Heidi Erlacher, and Chen Chen.

“Boston is a hub for innovation, and Fenwick is building a team to match that momentum,” said Hauser. “I look forward to helping our clients design compensation programs that align with their growth strategies and business goals.”

About Fenwick

Fenwick is a top-tier law firm dedicated to supporting technology and life sciences companies and their investors throughout every stage of growth from early funding rounds to global public offerings. With over 600 professionals, including lawyers, patent agents, engineers, and scientists, Fenwick delivers deep legal and technical expertise across corporate, IP, litigation, and regulatory matters.

Recognized as Law360’s 2024 Practice Group of the Year for both Life Sciences and Technology. Fenwick is consistently ranked among the leading law firms by Chambers USA. Learn more at www.fenwick.com.

DALLAS, Texas — Frost Brown Todd (FBT) is pleased to welcome Elizabeth La Rocca as a Partner in the firm’s Labor and Employment Practice Group in Dallas. Her arrival follows the recent addition of employment litigator Brandon Rainey, signaling continued growth in FBT’s employment law capabilities.

“With nearly 30 years of experience in complex immigration law, Liz brings business-focused solutions that are vital in today’s evolving economic and regulatory environment,” said Mekesha Montgomery, Chair of FBT’s Labor and Employment group. “Her experience is especially timely as U.S. companies face new challenges under shifting federal policies.”

La Rocca is a seasoned employment immigration attorney with extensive experience advising multinational corporations in industries such as automotive, engineering, finance, and information technology. She counsels clients on a full range of employment-based immigration issues, including:

• Temporary and permanent work visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, EB-1, EB-2, etc.)
• Labor certifications and PERM applications
• Immigration compliance and audits
• Family-based green cards and naturalization
• Expatriation and global mobility strategies

“There’s a rising demand for strategic immigration counsel who understands both legal and business needs,” said Matthew Hoyt, leader of FBT’s Immigration Service Team. “Liz’s knowledge enhances our capabilities in critical areas of employment-based immigration.”

La Rocca has a national reputation for helping U.S. employers and their highly skilled foreign employees navigate complex legal frameworks. Her practical, client-first approach and in-depth understanding of immigration regulations make her a trusted advisor for corporations with cross-border workforces.

“I’m honored to join a team that values excellence and client service,” said La Rocca. “Frost Brown Todd’s national platform and collaborative environment provide strong support for expanding my immigration practice.”

La Rocca earned her bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and her J.D. from St. Thomas University School of Law. Her professional achievements have earned her recognition from Legal 500 and Best Lawyers in America.

Washington, D.C. — Fenwick has announced that Jerzy Piatkowski has joined the firm as counsel in its Government Contracts and Public Sector Procurement group. He will be based in Fenwick’s Washington, D.C. office. His addition signals Fenwick’s ongoing investment in regulatory capabilities and continued growth in the D.C. region.

Piatkowski brings nearly 30 years of experience from General Dynamics Mission Systems, a unit of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). Most recently, he served as Vice President of Contracts and Associate General Counsel, leading a 170-person team and overseeing the division’s full contract portfolio. His background spans government and commercial contracting, strategic partnerships, risk management, and legal operations across defense, aerospace, and cybersecurity sectors.

“We’re pleased to welcome Jerzy to our expanding D.C. team,” said Mark Ostrau, Chair of Fenwick’s Regulatory Practice. “His strategic mindset, industry insight, and legal expertise in high-stakes government contracting will add significant value to our clients.”

At Fenwick, Piatkowski will counsel clients on a broad range of government contract and procurement matters, including:

• Contract structuring and compliance
• Risk mitigation strategies
• Export and international contracting
• Prime-subcontractor negotiations
• Regulatory compliance under federal acquisition and defense statutes

He will also advise on M&A transactions, internal investigations, and contract disputes involving government-facing components.

“Fenwick’s innovative approach and focus on emerging regulatory challenges make this the right move,” said Piatkowski. “I’m excited to help drive the firm’s momentum in Washington and beyond.”

About Fenwick

Fenwick is a top-tier law firm dedicated to supporting technology and life sciences companies at every stage—from startups to publicly traded global leaders. As a pioneer in Silicon Valley legal services, Fenwick now boasts a team of over 600 lawyers, patent agents, engineers, and scientists serving clients worldwide. Law360 named it 2024 Practice Group of the Year for both Life Sciences and Technology. It is also recognized by Chambers for its deep industry knowledge and legal excellence.

Learn more at www.fenwick.com

(June 5, 2025) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law firm representing management, has once again been recognized in the 2025 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. This annual guide honors top attorneys and law firms across the U.S. 50 states based on extensive market research and independent client interviews.

At the national level, Littler secured Band 2 rankings in three crucial categories:

• E-Discovery & Information Governance
• Labor & Employment
• Occupational Safety and Health

These rankings underscore Littler’s deep expertise and leadership in the evolving landscape of workplace law.

More than 75 Littler attorneys were individually ranked in the 2025 Chambers USA guide for their outstanding work across these same practice areas, as well as Sports Law. Their recognition reflects the firm’s broad bench strength and commitment to client success.

Littler’s offices in over 30 states were acknowledged, with top Band 1 ranking awarded to offices in:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Georgia
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Texas

These distinctions underscore Littler’s reputation as a trusted legal partner across regional and national markets.

A full list of ranked attorneys is included below:

E-Discovery & Information Governance

• Denise E. Backhouse
• Kimberly J. Duplechain
• Lauren E. Schwartzreich
• Niloy Ray
• Paul D. Weiner

Labor & Employment

• Janell Ahnert
• Lori B. Alexander
• Timothy S. Anderson
• Philip M. Berkowitz
• Richard W. Black
• Daniel B. Boatright
• Arthur T. Carter
• Melinda (Mindy) J. Caterine
• Jennifer L. Ciralsky
• Patrick G. DeBlasio III
• Leslie A. Dent
• Kristine Grady Derewicz
• Jeannie M. DeVeney
• Sarah Bryan Fask
• Gregory S. Fisher
• Jillian S. Folger-Hartwell
• Adam P. Forman
• William H. Foster
• Karl A. Fritton
• Jaclyn R. Giffen
• A. John Harper III
• Barry A. Hartstein
• Patrick H. Hicks
• Jay Inman
• Gregory Keating
• Joshua B. Kirkpatrick
• Tedd J. Kochman
• Elizabeth A. Lalik
• Jonathan O. Levine
• Fermin H. Llaguno
• Andrea Lovell
• Eva C. Madison
• Patricia J. Martin
• Garry G. Mathiason
• LaToi D. Mayo
• Scott McDonald
• Michael S. McIntosh
• Alan L. McLaughlin
• Jacqueline A. Mrachek
• Marko J. Mrkonich
• Terrence H. Murphy
• Daniel L. Nash
• Jeff Nowak
• George E. O’Brien Jr.
• Shannon K. Patton
• Kristy L. Peters
• Jacqueline Phipps Polito
• Charles A. Powell IV
• Paul E. Prather
• David P. Radelet
• Charles (Chad) Reis IV
• Anthony D. Rizzotti
• Holly M. Robbins
• Jennifer B. Robinson
• Laurie J. Rust
• Lisa (Lee) A. Schreter
• Jonathan Shapiro
• Jeremy Sosna
• Jay D. St. Clair
• Jason R. Stanevich
• C. Eric Stevens
• David Strock
• Jennifer Fox Swain
•  Tanja L. Thompson
• Daniel E. Turner
• Richard M. Wallace
• Joshua B. Waxman
• Erin A. Webber
• Harry W. Wellford Jr.
• Kate Mrkonich Wilson
• Wayne S. Yoshigai

Occupational Safety and Health

• Steven R. McCown
• Alka Ramchandani-Raj

Sports Law

Daniel L. Nash

About Chambers USA

Chambers USA is a respected legal data and analytics provider, ranking the leading lawyers and law firms across the U.S. Their rankings are based on in-depth interviews with clients and legal peers, offering a reliable benchmark for legal excellence.

Learn more at Chambers.com.

About Littler

Littler is the global leader in labor and employment law, with more than 1,800 attorneys across 27 offices worldwide. The firm offers innovative workplace solutions through a diverse team and cutting-edge legal technology. Littler helps employers stay ahead of change—today and in the future.

Visit www.littler.com for more information.

Buchalter is excited to announce that Steven Mroczkowski has joined the firm as a Shareholder in its Chicago office. He will be part of the Litigation and Construction Practice Groups.

“We’re pleased to welcome Steve to Buchalter,” said Adam Bass, President and CEO of the firm. “His deep experience in construction litigation and commercial disputes strengthens our capabilities across the Midwest and beyond.”

Mroczkowski represents clients throughout the construction contract chain, including owners, developers, contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, lenders, and sureties. His practice covers both transactional matters and dispute resolution. He handles litigation in state and federal courts, as well as arbitration and mediation nationwide.

His legal expertise also includes contract negotiation, lease disputes, commercial foreclosure and workouts, bankruptcy litigation, and a wide range of complex business issues.

“Buchalter’s entrepreneurial culture and full-service platform are a great fit,” said Mroczkowski. “They allow me to expand the legal solutions I deliver and continue building strong, results-driven client relationships.”

“Steve brings a practical, business-minded approach and a deep understanding of the construction industry,” added Tom Jefson, Office Managing Shareholder in Chicago. “He’s a valuable addition to our team and enhances our regional service offering.”

Related Articles in the Legal Industry:
Steven Mroczkowski’s arrival in Chicago is part of Buchalter’s strategic expansion. Following similar growth, the firm recently added Bruce as a Shareholder in the San Francisco Office.

Firm’s National Growth:
Building on Buchalter’s nationwide presence, Mroczkowski’s addition complements other office relocations, such as Buchalter Expands and Relocates its Denver Office to Granite Tower.

Buchalter proudly welcomes Bruce Kelson as a Shareholder in its San Francisco office, where he joins the firm’s Litigation and Securities Practice Groups.

“We’re excited to have Bruce on board,” said Adam Bass, President and CEO of Buchalter. “His deep experience in high-stakes securities litigation and regulatory matters brings immediate value to our clients navigating today’s complex legal landscape.”

Kelson’s practice spans securities litigation and complex commercial disputes. He represents both U.S. and international clients in various industries, including financial services, real estate, venture capital, software, and technology. His work includes defending clients in SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory investigations, as well as handling internal investigations and enforcement actions.

He is also well-versed in securities class actions, shareholder derivative lawsuits, M&A disputes, director and officer liability, corporate governance issues, antitrust, and employment litigation, bringing a comprehensive view to high-stakes legal challenges.

“Buchalter’s national presence and respected litigation team give me the platform to grow and better serve my clients,” said Kelson. “The firm’s collaborative and entrepreneurial environment is a perfect match for my practice.’

Kelson has successfully appeared before federal and state courts, as well as arbitral forums, in California, New York, Delaware, and several other key jurisdictions.

“Bruce brings a strategic and thoughtful approach to litigation,” added Matthew Covington, Office Managing Shareholder in San Francisco. “His addition strengthens both our local and firmwide litigation capabilities.”

Related Articles:

Bruce’s addition to Buchalter’s San Francisco office follows a series of similar hires across the country, such as Steven Mroczkowski joining Buchalter as Shareholder in Chicago.

With a firm commitment to growth, Buchalter has also expanded its footprint in cities like Denver. Read more about Expansion and relocation of Buchalter to its Denver Office to Granite Tower.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Foley & Lardner LLP has announced the launch of its 27th global office and 24th in the U.S. with the opening of a new location in Nashville, Tennessee. This marks the firm’s second office opening in under a year, reinforcing its national presence and capabilities in the healthcare and life sciences, as well as the manufacturing sectors.

Three distinguished corporate partners—Jesse Neil, Brent Bowman, and Jon Gaston join Foley from Holland & Knight LLP, bringing deep experience in regulatory law, transactions, and taxation. They will anchor the Nashville office alongside litigation partners Kevin Hyde and Lauren Loew, further enhancing Foley’s litigation and corporate capabilities across the Southeast.

“Nashville is a dynamic and fast-growing market that perfectly aligns with Foley’s industry strengths,” said Daljit Doogal, Chairman and CEO of Foley. “With strong economic growth in health care, life sciences, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing, the city offers significant opportunities for both our firm and our clients.”

Strategic Focus on High-Growth Sectors

Neil, Bowman, and Gaston bring a multidisciplinary approach to advising clients in the healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors, including both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of matters, including public hospital conversions, mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, tax-exempt law, governance, and joint ventures.

Jesse Neil, now Managing Partner of the Nashville office, specializes in healthcare regulatory law, with extensive experience in compliance, operations, and public policy. He advises hospitals, providers, investors, and corporate boards on the Stark Law, AKS, FCA, HIPAA, and other relevant regulations.

Brent Bowman focuses on corporate transactions, including joint ventures, securities offerings, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A). He has advised primary healthcare and manufacturing companies on SEC compliance, capital raising, and general corporate governance.

Jon Gaston brings significant depth in federal and state tax law, particularly for nonprofits, tax-exempt organizations, and charitable foundations. He also handles audits, appeals, and tax litigation before the IRS and state authorities.

“Foley’s full-service platform and entrepreneurial spirit are exactly what we were looking for,” said Neil. “This move allows us to elevate the legal services we provide and expand our regional footprint.”

Strengthening Litigation and Employment Capabilities

Joining the team in Nashville are two experienced litigators:

Kevin Hyde focuses on labor and employment law, advising clients in the manufacturing, food and beverage, and automotive industries on compliance, union issues, workplace safety, and HR disputes.
Lauren Loew specializes in commercial litigation, ESG compliance, and product liability. She represents clients in the automotive and healthcare industries in regulatory, supply chain, and antitrust disputes.

“With Jesse, Brent, Jon, Kevin, and Lauren leading the way, our Nashville office is built on deep industry knowledge and client-focused innovation,” added Doogal. “This team gives us the ability to offer integrated solutions across corporate, litigation, tax, and regulatory services.”

Strategic Market Expansion

The Nashville office launch follows Foley’s recent expansion into Raleigh, North Carolina (2024) and Salt Lake City, Utah (2021), reflecting the firm’s strategic approach to being physically present in markets where clients are growing.

“We’re thrilled to join a firm that values collaboration, client service, and innovation,” said Neil. “Foley is investing in the future, and we’re proud to be a part of that vision.”

About Foley & Lardner LLP

Foley & Lardner LLP is a leading U.S. law firm focused on the Energy, Health Care & Life Sciences, Innovative Technology, and Manufacturing sectors. With over 1,100 attorneys across 27 offices globally, Foley delivers practical legal solutions backed by deep industry knowledge. The firm provides comprehensive support, encompassing corporate law, intellectual property, litigation, and regulatory counsel, enabling clients to meet complex challenges with clarity and confidence.

Recently, Womble Bond Dickinson expands in Nashville with 20 new attorneys from Neal & Harwell.

Foley & Lardner LLP announced today the expansion of its Innovative Technology Sector and Transactions Practice Group. The firm welcomes partners Gurpreet Bal and Shaalu Mehra to its Silicon Valley office. Both bring expertise in advising technology companies, investors, and founders on complex corporate and transactional matters.
Bal joins Foley from DLA Piper, while Mehra comes from McDermott Will & Emery. Their addition follows the recent integration of a five-partner intellectual property team in San Diego and San Francisco. This growth reflects Foley’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its presence in California and the national tech sector.

Daljit Doogal, Foley’s chairman and CEO, said, “Expanding our corporate and transactions platform in innovation-driven markets like Silicon Valley remains a key priority. Gurpreet and Shaalu bring significant experience in emerging technologies and complex tech transactions. Their expertise enhances our ability to serve clients seeking sophisticated legal counsel. We are thrilled to have them on board as we grow in this space.”

Thomas Carlucci, managing partner of Foley’s Northern California offices, added, “Gurpreet and Shaalu’s arrival strengthens our corporate team in Northern California. Their extensive work with tech companies, investors, and partners will boost our local presence. We look forward to their valuable contributions as they help clients navigate complex and fast-moving transactions.”

Over the past two decades, Gurpreet Bal has represented public and private technology companies, investment funds, and founders. His expertise spans capital raising, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and strategic transactions in AI, semiconductors, fintech, health care, and consumer technology sectors. Bal advises clients throughout the company lifecycle—from formation and financing to liquidity events and exits. He has managed over 50 M&A deals valued at over $60 billion and participated in hundreds of financing rounds, including venture capital, debt financings, and IPOs. Bal leverages this experience and his business background to provide actionable advice to companies, boards, investors, and founders.

Bal said, “I was drawn to Foley’s client-focused culture and rapid growth in Silicon Valley. The firm’s momentum in California, tech-driven strategy, and service-oriented approach create a strong foundation to support clients at every growth stage. As the legal industry embraces technology integration, Foley’s focus on innovation offers exciting opportunities. I’m eager to contribute to this shift from innovation to adoption, a journey many clients and partners are undertaking nationwide.”

Shaalu Mehra is a technology dealmaker with expertise in venture finance, corporate governance, intellectual property, and technology policy. He has led foremost transactions in data assets, security, autonomous systems, mobility, cleantech, digital health, and IoT sectors. Mehra’s clients include Fortune 50 multinationals, venture-backed startups, founders, investment funds, and family offices. His practice benefits from a strong technical background in computer science research. He also maintains ongoing academic collaborations.

Mehra shared, “Foley’s strategic growth and integrated sector expertise provide a powerful platform to tackle evolving legal and technology challenges. I’m excited to join during this dynamic expansion and contribute to its cutting-edge practices.”

About Foley & Lardner LLP

Foley & Lardner LLP is a leading law firm in the Energy, Health Care and Life Sciences, Innovative Technology, and Manufacturing sectors. The firm goes beyond legal advice to address clients’ evolving business challenges. With 1,100 lawyers across 26 offices worldwide, Foley offers comprehensive services ranging from corporate counsel to intellectual property and litigation support. For nearly 200 years, Foley has maintained a strong commitment to innovation, client service, and community stewardship.

Learn more at www.foley.com.

Foley & Lardner LLP has expanded its East Coast team by adding three new partners to its Litigation Department. Kenneth Breen and Phara Guberman have joined the firm in New York. They are now part of the Government Enforcement & Defense Investigations (GEDI) Practice Group and the Innovative Technology Sector. Joseph Dowdy has joined the Commercial Litigation Practice in Raleigh, North Carolina.

“We’re happy to welcome Ken, Phara, and Joe,” said Foley’s Chairman and CEO, Daljit Doogal. “They bring strong skills in government enforcement, business disputes, and tech-related matters. This move strengthens our team and helps us grow in important markets.”

Breen and Guberman came from Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft. They bring deep experience in white-collar defense, investigations, and high-level business litigation. They work with clients from various industries, addressing issues such as securities, anti-corruption, and technology laws. Both have also represented clients before top U.S. and global enforcement agencies.

“We’re excited to join Foley’s strong litigation and GEDI team,” said Breen. “The firm is growing fast in areas like tech, cryptocurrency, health care, and enforcement defense. This is the right time for us to be here.”

Guberman added, “We’re honored to work with Foley’s skilled and committed team. Their focus on clients and quality matches our own.”

Dowdy comes from Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton. He brings experience in business disputes, class actions, and legal matters involving government and the Constitution. He works with companies in the tech, energy, real estate, finance, and retail sectors. Dowdy has handled many high-stakes cases in courts, arbitration, and administrative hearings. At Foley, he will also continue to lead a talk series that focuses on solving legal and business problems.

“I’m proud to join Foley’s strong litigation team and be part of the Raleigh office,” said Dowdy. “The firm’s national reach and teamwork approach make it a great place for me. I look forward to helping clients and growing our presence in the region.”

These new partners boost Foley’s East Coast team and strengthen its national Litigation Department, which now has over 400 attorneys. Their arrival helps the firm handle complex government, business, and regulatory matters across the U.S. and worldwide.

Doogal added, “This is a key time for Foley. The additions of Ken, Phara, and Joe show our focus on growth in top markets. They support our goal to meet client needs and grow in the right way.”

Foley & Lardner LLP has announced the addition of partners Daniel Farris and Joe McClendon to its Chicago office. This move enhances the firm’s capabilities in Technology Transactions, Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Energy & Infrastructure sectors. Farris and McClendon join from Norton Rose Fulbright, bringing extensive global expertise in data center operations, cybersecurity, data privacy, and complex technology transactions.

These strategic hires reinforce Foley’s expanding national Intellectual Property Department and its commitment to bridging the gap between energy infrastructure and innovative technologies.

“Daniel and Joe offer a rare mix of legal expertise and technical knowledge, which will help us deliver practical solutions in these fast-evolving sectors,” said Daljit Doogal, Foley Chairman and CEO. “Their focus perfectly aligns with our goals to grow in the Energy & Infrastructure and Innovative Technology sectors while enhancing our cross-practice collaboration to meet our clients’ changing needs. Their addition follows closely behind the recent expansion of our IP litigation team, further emphasizing our commitment to building integrated teams that drive client success.”

Farris advises on various technology, privacy, cybersecurity, and compliance matters, specializing in data center and digital infrastructure transactions. His background as a software engineer and network administrator enables him to negotiate multi-jurisdictional deals for developing, leasing, and operating data centers, fiber networks, and other related infrastructure. Farris also guides clients on technology licensing and regulatory compliance, including HIPAA and GDPR standards. His clients span multiple industries, including healthcare, banking, telecommunications, and retail.

With expertise in privacy, cybersecurity, and technology transactions, McClendon focuses on developing compliance programs in line with U.S. and international regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. He advises clients on information governance, disaster recovery, and intellectual property issues. With his decade-long experience as an IT project manager, McClendon uses his technical knowledge to help clients navigate the legal complexities of technology-driven initiatives.

“Daniel and Joe’s experience is invaluable as we support clients in large-scale energy and infrastructure projects, especially with the growing demand for data centers,” said Jeff Atkin, chair of Foley’s Energy & Infrastructure Sector. “Their expertise will help us add significant value and navigate complex, high-stakes projects. We are thrilled to welcome them to the team.”

“We have had the privilege of leading some of the most challenging data center projects globally and to bring that experience to Foley as demand for these services grows,” said Farris. “Foley’s national reach, combined with its energy, infrastructure, and technology strength, creates the perfect platform to serve clients in these rapidly evolving sectors. We look forward to collaborating with Foley’s talented team to deliver impactful results.”

About Foley & Lardner LLP:

Foley & Lardner LLP is a leading law firm in the Energy, Health Care & Life Sciences, Innovative Technology, and Manufacturing sectors. With nearly 2,000 professionals across 26 offices, the firm goes beyond legal advice, acting as trusted business advisors to address clients’ evolving needs. Foley offers comprehensive services, from corporate counsel to intellectual property and litigation support, ensuring clients receive integrated, practical solutions. Foley has been committed to delivering innovative legal services for nearly two centuries while nurturing its people, clients, and communities.

LegalSifter, based in Pittsburgh, has launched LegalSifter ReviewPro™, a new AI-powered solution designed to make contract reviews faster and more accurate. This tool builds on the company’s AI technology, which has improved contract management since 2014. ReviewPro helps businesses by automatically flagging risks and applying redlines based on their specific legal standards. This tech will significantly speeding up the contract review process and giving consistency.

Eric Hall, CEO of LegalSifter, explained, “ReviewPro is build to assist legal and business teams review contracts efficiently while keeping in line with their company’s legal requirements.” The tool offers customized playbooks, reducing review times, cutting costs, and maintaining uniformity across all agreements.

Lars Mahler, Chief Science Officer, added that ReviewPro’s AI engine uses advanced machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) to flag issues and generative AI to apply redlines. This combination ensures highly accurate results, giving users confidence without overlooking details.

Key features of ReviewPro include:

• Quick first-pass contract reviews with flagged risks, guidance, and auto-applied redlines in Microsoft Word.
• Contract-specific AI developed over 10 years, ensuring precise analysis of legal documents.
• Easy-to-use playbook management, allowing customization to suit specific legal and business needs.

To see how ReviewPro works, visit legalsifter.com/products/ai-contract-review and sign up for a free trial when available.

LegalSifter, founded in 2013, combines AI with contract expertise to improve businesses’ contract management, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. Visit www.legalsifter.com for more details.

Dykema, a prominent national law firm, has announced that Jason Paul Blair has joined its Trademark Practice Group as a Member in the firm’s Austin office. He joins Dykema after over three years at Smith Gambrell & Russell, LLP in Austin. Before entering private practice, he spent over 13 years as a Trademark Examining Attorney with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). There he managed the implementation of rules for sound and motion marks.

Blair’s practice covers a broad spectrum of intellectual property issues, focusing on trademarks, trade dress, and copyrights. His extensive experience in the trademark registration process is grounded in his direct involvement in examining and prosecuting over 15,000 trademark applications at the USPTO.

He has a diverse background in managing trademark portfolios for clients from multinational corporations with global portfolios to small startups. His work includes clearance, prosecution, maintenance, and enforcement. He has also negotiated and drafted intellectual property licensing agreements. Also, he represented clients in trademark opposition and cancellation proceedings before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB).

His clients include well-known restaurant and hospitality brands, sports franchises, technology firms, and academic institutions.

“We are excited to have Jason join our Trademark Team and Austin Office,” said Dan Harkins, Director of Dykema’s Intellectual Property and IP Litigation Department. “His extensive experience at the USPTO is a great asset. It strengthens our team of former Trademark Examiners. This brings unique expertise in securing brand protection for our clients.” His addition aligns with the firm’s growth strategy to meet the increasing demand for IP services.”

Blair is a Member of the International Trademark Association (INTA). He holds a J.D., cum laude, from the University of Miami School of Law. He completed B.A. in Political Science, cum laude, from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Cooley has announced that Shashwat Tewary has joined the firm as a capital markets partner in its Singapore office. Tewary brings experience advising clients on capital markets activities in the rapidly growing India and Southeast Asia regions.

Tewary’s practice spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, aviation, real estate, and infrastructure. He provides strategic counsel to companies and investment banks on matters of various capital markets. These include initial public offerings (IPOs), follow-on equity offerings by corporations and real estate investment trusts (REITs), investment-grade and high-yield bonds, medium-term note programs, and liability management and restructuring initiatives. Before joining Cooley, Tewary was with Sidley Austin.

Sonya Erickson, partner and global chair of Cooley’s business department, remarked, “We are excited to welcome Shashwat to Cooley.

His extensive experience will further enhance our capabilities in India’s expanding capital markets. It will also support our continued growth in Southeast Asia. Shashwat’s addition aligns with our strategy to strengthen our presence in these key markets. This will enable us to offer exceptional service to our global clients.

Tewary has a long-standing focus on the Indian and Southeast Asian capital markets, advising clients in these regions since 2009. He notably played a key role in advising on India’s first REIT IPO and the inaugural infrastructure investment trust IPO. His experience also includes advising on multiple sponsor- and private-equity-led IPOs and IPOs in the technology and healthcare sectors.

Charlie Kim, partner and co-chair of Cooley’s global capital markets practice, added, “Shashwat brings valuable experience and an extensive network within the capital markets ecosystems of India and Southeast Asia. His expertise will significantly enhance our ability to deliver high-quality, effective advice to clients in these regions. We look forward to his contributions as we expand our global reach.”

Tewary expressed his happiness about joining Cooley, saying, “I’m excited to be part of Cooley’s dynamic and innovative capital markets team. With Asia’s rapidly evolving capital markets landscape, it’s an exciting opportunity to help Cooley’s clients navigate and capitalize on growth prospects in the region.”

Cooley’s global capital markets practice is renowned for advising innovative companies and investment banks on complex equity and debt transactions. In 2024, Cooley advised on 158 deals globally, totaling over $41 billion in deal volume. The firm is recognized as a leader in issuer-side IPOs and life sciences IPOs. It has advised on more venture-backed IPOs than any other firm over the past 15+ years.

Cooley is one of the most active firms in global equity offerings and continues to expand its team in Asia. The expansion has offices in Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore. The firm’s capital markets practice in Asia is one of the largest international teams in the region, reinforcing its commitment to this critical area of growth.

About Cooley LLP

Cooley partners with clients on transformative deals, complex intellectual property and regulatory matters, and high-stakes litigation. The firm has nearly 1,400 lawyers across 19 U.S., Asia, and Europe offices, with a total workforce of over 3,000.

Buchalter is excited to announce that Brian Goldberg has joined the Firm as a Shareholder in the Atlanta office. With a wealth of litigation experience, Goldberg specializes in managing intricate commercial and business disputes, real estate litigation, landlord/tenant issues, creditor rights litigation, lender-liability defense, professional liability, and premises liability cases.

“Brian’s extensive litigation background and his proven success in representing clients in high-stakes cases make him a valuable addition to our team,” said Adam Bass, President and CEO of Buchalter. “We are thrilled to have him on board as we continue expanding in Atlanta and look forward to the contributions he will make to the Firm.”

Goldberg’s client roster includes publicly traded companies, national banks, mortgage servicers, property management firms, small businesses, investors, and individuals he represents in state and federal courts. He has served as lead counsel in jury trials. He has significant experience managing complex bankruptcy disputes and adversary proceedings in Georgia and beyond.

“I am excited to join Buchalter and work alongside the talented team in Atlanta and throughout the Firm,” Goldberg shared. “The Firm’s dedication to exceptional client service and its strategic approach to litigation align perfectly with my practice.”

Goldberg is a trusted advisor for businesses and individuals dealing with various real estate litigation issues, including quiet title actions, boundary disputes, partition cases, and complex title resolutions. His expertise also extends to handling residential and commercial property foreclosures and eviction matters.

Seth Trimble, Managing Shareholder of the Atlanta office, commented, “Brian’s expertise in commercial and real estate litigation enhances our capabilities as we expand in the Southeast. His reputation as a skilled litigator and trusted advisor will be a tremendous asset to our clients.”

Related Articles:

1. Buchalter’s strategic growth is evident with the addition of new shareholders like Steven Mroczkowski in Chicago and Bruce in San Francisco.
2. Buchalter’s Atlanta expansion follows recent office relocations of the Denver Office to Granite Tower.

ArentFox Schiff is excited to announce that Molly F. James has joined the firm as a partner in the Private Clients, Trusts & Estates (PCTE) practice in Washington, D.C. With over 30 years of experience in estate planning and administration, Molly will help create personalized strategies for clients with various personal and financial needs.

Molly’s addition is part of the firm’s ongoing growth in the PCTE practice, which welcomed Partner Todd Angkatavanich and Counsel Joe Blumberg earlier this month. Molly is happy to regularly reviewing and updating her clients’ estate plans, ensuring ensuring smooth management of affairs when a family member passes away. She works with various clients, including business owners, professionals, executives, venture capitalists, real estate investors, and multigenerational families. She also provides expert advice on U.S. estate planning for clients with connections to other countries.

“We are delighted to welcome Molly to our team,” said Christine R.W. Quigley, PCTE practice leader. “Her extensive experience in trust and estate planning will greatly enhance our practice. Molly simplifies complex issues, helping clients make well-informed decisions best suited to their family’s needs.”

Molly’s expertise extends beyond traditional estate planning documents like wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and medical directives. She also prepares specialized instruments such as dynasty trusts, prenuptial agreements, grantor-retained annuity trusts, and spousal lifetime access trusts. These instruments protect assets from taxes, creditors, divorcing spouses, and beneficiaries.

Before joining ArentFox Schiff, Molly was a partner at Troutman Pepper Locke. Outside her practice, she actively supports College Bound, Inc., serving as their pro bono legal counsel and advocating for programs that help D.C. public and charter school students achieve their college aspirations.

At ArentFox Schiff, our committed is to assists clients reach their full potential. Focusing on immediate and long-term objectives, we provide practical legal solutions that address today’s challenges and anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities. We partner with you to get you across the finish line.

Today, Katten welcomed the addition of Gidon M. Caine to its team as a securities litigation partner, bolstering the firm’s elite litigation offerings. “Reuniting with Gidon after all these years is a pleasure. We previously collaborated at another firm many years back.

I’ve been pursuing him for a while,” stated Bruce G. Vanyo, who co-chairs the Securities Litigation practice at Katten. “Gidon brings over three decades of expertise in strategic legal counseling and is adept at managing the considerable reputational and financial risks that companies encounter during investigations and litigation, which is invaluable for our clientele.”

Based in Silicon Valley, Caine specializes in various aspects of securities and corporate governance disputes. Gidon M. Caine has a wide range of legal skills. He handles many types of cases, including lawsuits involving shareholders, legal actions against company executives for not fulfilling their duties, and cases about company mergers and acquisitions. He has also led major trials as the main attorney, such as in the Delaware Court of Chancery, representing very large companies.

Caine works with various clients such as company boards, directors, officers, and special committees, mainly in Silicon Valley’s technology and life sciences industries. He also manages cases involving internal and government investigations, issues with venture funds, and other complex business legal matters.

Recognized by Chambers USA in the Securities Litigation sector, Caine is a respected authority in the legal field. He often shares his insights with the media and speaks at Stanford Law School Directors’ College panel discussions. Caine focuses on the complexities and challenges of being on boards of special purpose acquisition vehicles (SPACs). He also teaches at the University of California Berkeley School of Law and the Practicing Law Institute. Additionally, he writes critical legal analyses on major court decisions.

Katten is a full-service law firm with around 700 attorneys in the United States, London, and Shanghai. It offers high-quality legal services to clients both locally and internationally. The firm specializes in corporate law, financial markets and funds, insolvency and restructuring, intellectual property, litigation, real estate, structured finance and securitization, transactional tax planning, private credit, and private wealth.

Katten represents various clients, from public and private companies to government and nonprofit entities and individuals.

More information about Katten is available at katten.com.

(June 8, 2023) – Littler, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has been named the Top Firm for Diversity in the Yale Law Women+ (YLW+) Top Firms Report 2023. Through the report, YLW+ aims to raise awareness of inequities within the legal profession and highlight the progress being made in the industry. YLW+ honors individual firms for excelling in categories that relate to overall workplace equity. Littler also received an honorable mention in the Advancement category.

“We take great pride in our culture that prioritizes inclusion, equity and diversity (IE&D), and we are thrilled to receive this recognition from YLW+ for our ongoing efforts,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president, and Paul Bateman, Chief Inclusion, Equity & Diversity Officer, in a joint statement. “This recognition underscores the importance of cultivating a workplace where individuals are empowered to succeed. Through our intentional IE&D initiatives, we strive to provide an environment where attorneys can achieve their careers goals, from leadership to partnership and everything in between.”

Littler was selected for the Diversity award based on an assessment of the firm’s overall attorney diversity, hiring and retention outcomes and initiatives (such as summer diversity programs), and diverse representation in firm leadership.

The report noted that “Littler excels in attracting and, more importantly, retaining diverse attorney. The firm is also a leader when it comes to promoting diverse attorneys to leadership positions.”

In the Advancement category, Littler was rated based on training, mentorship, and review policies, with a focus on how the firm creates equitable opportunities for associates to interact with supervisors and shareholders. Additionally, how Littler facilitates advancement opportunities for diverse attorneys, such as through affinity networks and promotion outcomes, was also considered.

Littler supports the development and advancement of women and diverse attorneys at every level of the firm through several innovative and meaningful IE&D initiatives, including its award-winning Career Advocacy Program, SOAR Program, Women’s Leadership Initiative and affinity groups, among others. As a result, numerous attorneys serving in firm leadership positions – including on the firm’s board of directors, as office managing shareholders and as practice and industry group chairs – identify as women or diverse. Additionally, 100% of the members serving on Littler’s Management Committee, the firm’s highest governing body, are women or diverse.

Over the past year, Littler has received several other recognitions for its diversity efforts, including recently being named one of the top five best law firms for women and diversity by Seramount. A full list of the firm’s accolades, as well as a comprehensive overview of Littler’s ongoing IE&D programming and initiatives can be found in the firm’s 2022 Inclusion, Equity and Diversity Annual Report and on Littler.com.

About Littler

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

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