NEW YORK (Apr. 28, 2022) – The transatlantic law firm Womble Bond Dickinson is opening an office in New York with the addition of a prestigious group of lawyers from the intellectual property boutique firm Abelman Frayne & Schwab. With this year marking the fifth anniversary of the transatlantic combination that created Womble Bond Dickinson, the firm’s continued growth has included new offices in Boston, Los Angeles, and Houston, and an expanded presence in Palo Alto.

The New York-based trademark, licensing, and copyright team will be led by partners Julianne Abelman and Marie Anne Mastrovito, who will be joined by of counsel Erica R. Halstead, senior counsels Lori B. Cohen and Anthony A. Coppola, and six paralegals. With a well-known reputation across the trademark world, the team represents clients at all stages of trademark protection and litigation in every country of the world.

“This impressive group of lawyers has represented some of the world’s top brands, providing a wide range of trademark services across several industries,” said Elizabeth O. Temple, CEO and Chair of Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP. “Along with bolstering our trademarks and brand management practice, this addition allows us to plant our flag in one of the world’s most important business and legal centers. In alignment with our strategic plan, this office – combined with our existing presence in other key innovation centers, including Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Raleigh-Durham, Silicon Valley, and Washington, D.C. – continues our growth trajectory in markets that are driving innovation and technological change.”

Abelman and her team offer a full range of trademark services, including counseling clients in the selection of marks, providing trademark clearance searches and opinions, prosecuting trademark applications, counseling on enforcement strategies, representing clients in opposition and cancellation actions, and infringement litigation. They have worked with major corporations in several sectors, including alcoholic beverages, food, clothing, energy, technology, healthcare, consumer products, and manufacturing.

“We are excited to join Womble Bond Dickinson and establish the firm’s presence in New York,” said Abelman. “We will be able to combine our experience and small-firm culture of personal service to our clients with the support of a highly respected intellectual property department. We can’t think of a better partner as we begin this new chapter for our team.”

With this addition, Womble Bond Dickinson’s intellectual property practice will include more than 140 attorneys, patent agents, and technical advisors who help clients protect innovations and capitalize on the value of their IP in a competitive marketplace. The group’s full-service offerings include trademark clearance, prosecution and enforcement, patent preparation and prosecution, copyright registrations, technology transactions, complex licensing, IP litigation, trade secret protection, and data privacy and cybersecurity. More than 100 of these legal professionals are U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) registered practitioners, including attorneys and agents, and the team has more than 75 professionals with advanced degrees, 28 of whom have Ph.D.s or doctorates. Womble Bond Dickinson is a top-ranked firm in the Chambers USA 2021 Guide for intellectual property.

More information on the attorneys joining Womble Bond Dickinson can be found below:

Julianne Abelman has experience in the protection and enforcement of trademarks, copyrights, and domain names worldwide, including counseling on the selection and clearance of trademarks and slogans, filing and prosecution, licensing of intellectual property, trademark infringements, oppositions, and agreements relating to the use and coexistence of trademarks. At AFS, she served as a primary team leader and manager of that firm’s trademark practice group and managed a number of important client relationships.

Lori B. Cohen has represented Fortune 100 clients in the procurement and protection of well-known trademarks domestically and internationally. She concentrates her practice on all aspects of international and domestic trademark prosecution and international opposition and cancellation proceedings.

Anthony A. Coppola focuses his practice on various intellectual property litigation matters in the federal courts and before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. He also counsels clients in selecting, clearing, and maintaining international trademarks. He has experience in patent and trademark prosecution and negotiating and drafting intellectual property licensing and coexistence agreements. He has successfully litigated cases in the areas of patent infringement, trademark infringement, theft of trade secrets, trademark counterfeiting, and product liability in jurisdictions across the country.

Erica R. Halstead’s practice is focused on U.S. trademark prosecution, policing, enforcement, clearance, and counseling. This includes practice before the U.S. Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in both opposition and cancellation proceedings. She also has experience in negotiating and preparing assignments, licenses, and coexistence agreements.

Marie Anne Mastrovito is a former trademark examining attorney with the USPTO. She concentrates her practice on domestic trademark portfolio management, enforcement, and protection, including trademark clearance, trademark prosecution, negotiation of coexistence and settlement agreements, and the representation of clients in opposition and cancellation actions and ex parte appeals before the U.S. Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. She has also represented clients in successful appeals to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

ArentFox Schiff LLP is pleased to announce the expansion of its Health Care practice with the addition of Counsel Gayland O. Hethcoat II in the firm’s Los Angeles office.

Gayland brings nearly a decade of experience serving as in-house counsel to two of California’s leading health care organizations, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, a nationally-ranked and freestanding acute care children’s hospital, and Dignity Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the United States.

A strategic legal advisor to providers and stakeholders across the health care delivery spectrum, Gayland offers a practical, business-minded approach to supporting his clients. As regulatory counsel, Gayland develops solutions for complying with the complex web of federal and state laws governing the healthcare sector, including in the emerging fields of telemedicine and digital health. He has represented hospitals and health systems, physician practices, retail pharmacies and clinics, clinical laboratories, home health agencies, telehealth platforms and health tech start-ups, and management service organizations.

Gayland possesses particular experience with health data privacy and security laws (including HIPAA, the California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act (CMIA), 42 CFR Part 2 substance abuse confidentiality regulations, and the FTC Health Breach Notification Rule) and healthcare fraud and abuse laws (including the Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, and Civil Monetary Penalties Law). In addition, he routinely advises on healthcare licensure and scope-of-practice requirements, Medicare and Medicaid program rules, and controlled substance regulations.

In his transactional practice, Gayland drafts and negotiates various types of contracts and legal instruments, including financial arrangements between hospitals and physicians. He also assists with matters involving for-profit and nonprofit corporate board governance, conflicts of interest, and discharge of fiduciary duties.

“Gayland joins us at a critical time for our health care clients as they continue to manage their operations during the pandemic and work to comply with the changing regulatory landscape. Gayland’s impressive knowledge, excellent legal skills, and strong client service record are well-recognized in the health community. Welcoming attorneys with Gayland’s level of experience allows us to provide superior service and strategic counsel to our very sophisticated, growing client base.”
– Douglas A. Grimm, Health Care Practice Leader

Gayland’s Experience
Gayland’s recent work includes:

– Advising on issues involving COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements for healthcare workforce members, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory waivers and flexibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic
– Supporting senior compliance officers in administering healthcare compliance programs, including internal investigations, audits, and risk assessments
– Providing representation in enforcement actions and investigations conducted by the US Department of Justice, Office for Civil Rights in the US Department of Health and Human Services, the California Department of Public Health, and other federal and state agencies

About ArentFox Schiff
ArentFox Schiff LLP is internationally recognized in core industries where business and the law intersect. With more than 600 lawyers and policy professionals, the firm serves as a destination for an international roster of corporations, governments, private individuals, and trade associations.

– Foley & Lardner LLP secured a victory on behalf of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors last week when Honorable Judge Michael Beckloff of the Los Angeles County Superior Court denied a County resident’s petition for a writ of mandate in an attempt to block the transfer of Bruce’s Beach back to the legal heirs of Charles and Willa Bruce.

Bruce’s Beach was a popular Black-owned resort in the City of Manhattan Beach that catered to Black beachgoers in the 1910s and 20s. In 1924, the City of Manhattan Beach condemned Bruce’s Beach in an act of racial discrimination, seeking to drive out Black patrons from Manhattan Beach. Recognizing this profound historical wrong, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 796 into law, enabling the County to take appropriate actions to return Bruce’s Beach to the legal heirs of the Bruce family.

A County resident petitioned for a writ of mandate to block the transfer of the property. The resident primarily argued that the transfer of the property violates Article XVI, Section 6 of the California Constitution, which prohibits the Legislature from giving public funds to private citizens. Foley partner and the County’s lead counsel Byron McLain argued that returning the property to the Bruce family is not an improper gift in violation of the California Constitution because this act serves a clear and direct public purpose of addressing and redressing government racial discrimination. As stated in Senate Bill 796, this transfer enables the County to “rectify the historic injustice that was done to the Bruce family by returning the land…from whom it was taken in an act motivated by racism.”

Judge Beckloff denied the Petitioner’s writ of mandate and held that the anticipated transfer is constitutional, which effectively grants the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors the power to right this historic wrong. The County’s effort to return Bruce’s Beach “works to strengthen government integrity, represents governmental accountability. . . [and] fosters trust and respect in government,” Beckloff wrote in his ruling. “Redressing past acts of discrimination as well as preventing such acts in the future benefits the whole of the community. The public purpose served by [the County’s efforts] is direct and substantial,” Beckloff found.

McLain commented, “The Superior Court’s decision to allow the County of Los Angeles to transfer the Bruce’s Beach property back to the Bruce family is a huge step in support of the County’s concerted call to action for government entities to recognize and dismantle the history of racial oppression, injustice, and inequity that has left an indelible stain on this nation, most especially, its communities of color.”

In addition to McLain, the Foley team representing the County included Anum Amin and former Foley attorney M. Kristina Fernandez Mabrie. Paralegal Autumn McIntosh and Vivian Hong also assisted in this matter.

Sidley Accelerates Expansion in Emerging Companies Practice
-Welcomes Global Finance Partner Cynthia Bai and Executive Compensation Partner Nic Frey in Palo Alto
-Strengthens National Platform in Emerging Technology and Life Science Sectors

PALO ALTO – Sidley Austin LLP is pleased to announce that Cynthia Bai and Nicholas (Nic) Frey have joined the firm as partners in its Palo Alto office. Ms. Bai joins the firm’s Global Finance group from Cooley LLP, while Mr. Frey joins the Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice from Baker Botts. Sidley’s presence in Northern California continues to grow with more than 100 lawyers serving technology, life sciences, emerging companies, venture capital, and other practice areas.

“With over a dozen new partners nationally in the emerging growth practice over the past several years, our strategic investment in this sector is only gaining momentum,” said Martin Wellington, leader of Sidley’s Emerging Companies and Venture Capital practice and a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. “Cynthia and Nic bring the Silicon Valley-native expertise that entrepreneurial technology and life sciences companies expect in credit and executive compensation matters, as they are intimately familiar with the bespoke practices and market norms that have grown up in this sector.”

Mr. Frey focuses on executive compensation and benefits, equity plan and award design, M&A and capital markets transaction support, ERISA matters, and general public and private company compensation and benefit matters.

“Sidley has built a strong pipeline of technology and life sciences capital markets and M&A opportunities,” said Matthew E. Johnson, co-leader of the firm’s global Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice. “Nic’s experience will be a great asset to the team and the firm.”

Ms. Bai focuses her practice on debt financing transactions involving technology, life science, healthcare, and other high growth verticals, with an emphasis on venture debt and other emerging growth debt facilities, as well as fund finance. Her clients include debt funds, banks, and other lenders, as well as operating company and investment fund borrowers.

“We continue to attract the highest level of talent to our globally recognized practice,” said Kevin Blauch, leader of Sidley’s Global Finance practice and a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. “Cynthia’s strong knowledge of the structures common to early stage and high growth borrowers and venture funds is a great addition to our team.”

With more than 180 lawyers, Sidley’s Global finance group is a destination practice for high-value, complex financings across a broad spectrum of platforms, industries and asset types. Sidley lawyers have pioneered the development of financial instruments for the world’s financial markets and is consistently recognized by leading publications as one of the world’s leading finance practices.

With more than 2,000 lawyers in 20 offices around the globe, Sidley is a premier legal adviser for clients across the spectrum of industries. Follow Sidley on Twitter @SidleyLaw.

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SARASOTA, Fla., Ball Janik LLP is pleased to announce the firm’s fourth office opening, and first on the Gulf Coast, in Sarasota, Florida. The newest office is in the Center Pointe Office Building at 2033 Main Street, Suite 201. Located in downtown Sarasota, the office is across the street from the Sarasota County Courthouse and minutes away from several city highlights such as the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota Opera House, and the Sarasota Art Museum. Special Counsel Salvatore G. Scro will lead the Sarasota office, along with partners Phillip E. Joseph, James C. Prichard, Evan J. Small, Kelly M. Corcoran, and Brian T. Crevasse. The Sarasota office is positioned to serve clients up and down the Gulf Coast, including Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Bradenton, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater.
“Expanding to western Florida is a natural move for our firm as we grow in the Florida market. The new office allows us to strengthen our client relationships and services,” said Jim Prichard, Managing Partner at Ball Janik. “Having someone as experienced as Sal Scro leading our Sarasota office will ensure it provides the highest quality of service to clients—matching Ball Janik’s nationally recognized brand.”
Scro resides in Sarasota, Florida, where he is heavily involved in the community. His legal experience spans 33 years and includes various areas of litigation, real estate, and business matters in New York and Florida. Since relocating to Florida in 2006, Scro has concentrated his practice on the representation of homeowners, homeowner associations, and condominium associations in complex construction defect litigation and turnover matters. He also represents clients in business, civil, and commercial and residential real estate transactions.
“Establishing the firm’s first western Florida office is an exciting endeavor,” said Scro. “I have no doubt this office will provide the best service to every client we represent and expand Ball Janik’s footprint in the coming years.”
An expansion of Ball Janik’s growing presence throughout Florida, the Sarasota office will continue the Florida mission of working with owners of all types in construction defect claims, construction and design matters, real estate transactions, insurance recovery, and first-party property damage claims.
About Ball Janik LLP
Ball Janik LLP is a bicoastal comprehensive services law firm focused on real estate, land use, construction, and business litigation. With offices in Florida and Oregon, we serve clients in the areas of affordable housing, bankruptcy, and creditor rights, community associations, construction and design, construction defect disputes, corporate, financial services, hospitality, insurance recovery, investigations and white-collar crime, public agencies and schools, and renewable energy.
Since our firm’s inception, we have expanded our capabilities, professionals, and geographic footprint. In doing so, we have earned a national reputation for upholding the rights of our clients.
Ball Janik LLP has been recognized by Chambers USA, US News & World Report and Best Lawyers®, The Best Lawyers in America©, and Corporate International. Ball Janik LLP’s success and integrity have repeatedly made it one of “Oregon’s Most Admired Professional Firms,” according to the Portland Business Journal’s survey results of CEOs throughout the region. To learn more about Ball Janik LLP, please visit www.balljanik.com.

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP is pleased to announce eight of the firm’s Washington, D.C. attorneys have been recognized in the 2022 edition of Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers and the list of “Rising Stars.”

“We congratulate this group of attorneys for their well-deserved recognition among their peers in the D.C. area. We are proud of their success and the high level of service they consistently provide their clients,” said Bradley Washington, D.C. Office Managing Partner Douglas L. Patin.

The following four Bradley attorneys are recognized as Washington, D.C., Super Lawyers:

Aron C. Beezley, partner (Government Contracts)
Gregory G. Marshall, partner (Criminal Defense: White Collar)
Douglas L. Patin, partner (Construction Litigation)
Sky Woodward, partner (Class Action)

The following four Bradley attorneys are recognized as “Rising Stars”:

Lee-Ann C. Brown, associate (Construction Litigation)
Kya M. Henley, associate (Criminal Defense: White Collar)
Anna M. Lashley, associate (Criminal Defense: White Collar)
Jessica L. Zurlo, associate (Intellectual Property)

The selections for the Super Lawyers lists, published by Thompson Reuters, are determined through independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. Only the top 5% of lawyers in D.C. are included in the Super Lawyers list. No more than 2.5% percent of D.C. attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or practicing for 10 or fewer years are included in the “Rising Stars” list.

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.

The International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC) has announced that Jennifer S. Park, a shareholder at Dentons Cohen & Grigsby P.C., in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 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 thrilled about the opportunities that the IADC offers to learn about current issues and trends affecting members and their respective organizations,” Ms. Park said.
Ms. Park advises and represents global and U.S. clients on various employment matters including, but not limited to, issues related to disability, leave, wage and hour, whistleblower, discrimination, and retaliation.

At Dentons Cohen & Grigsby, Ms. Park is a member of both the Governance and Nominating, and Oversight and Executive committees. Also, since 2020, she has served as Co-chair of the firm’s U.S. Pandemic Special Situations Team, providing guidance and insight related to COVID-19 issues affecting Dentons clients. In addition, she is a member of the Dentons ESG Advisory Committee, which provides guidance to firm clients on all manner of environmental, social and governance issues including, but not limited to, board diversity and other issues related to diversity and inclusion.
Ms. Park also is a board member of the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition.
Ms. Park received her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and her Bachelor of Arts (magna cum laude) from Wellesley College.

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.

Washington, D.C. – Blank Rome LLP is pleased to welcome leading international trade and national security attorney Anthony Rapa as a partner in the firm’s Washington, D.C., office where he will lead the firm’s National Security team. Working closely with the firm’s Aerospace, Defense and Government Services industry group, Anthony will counsel companies, private equity sponsors, and financial institutions on sanctions and export control-related matters in cross-border transactions, mergers and acquisitions, government investigations, and regulatory matters. A dual U.S./UK-qualified practitioner, he joins Blank Rome from Kirkland & Ellis where he was a partner.

“Anthony is a fantastic addition to Blank Rome and our aerospace, defense and government services industry team,” said Grant S. Palmer, Blank Rome’s Managing Partner and CEO. “He will play a key role in expanding our national security and international trade capabilities as well as helping our clients address critical issues in this multidisciplinary and evolving area. His deep knowledge of the sanctions and export control regimes in the United States, UK, and EU will greatly benefit our clients as we help them navigate the increasingly complex, fast-moving sanctions landscape.”

Anthony advises clients on wide-ranging sanctions and export controls compliance matters, including under the sanctions regulations administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”) administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (“BIS”), and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) administered by the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (“DDTC”). He leads internal investigations and merger and acquisition due diligence related to sanctions and export controls, submits license and advisory opinion requests on behalf of clients, advises on transactions involving high-risk jurisdictions and/or export-controlled items, conducts product classifications under EAR and ITAR rules, develops compliance policies for multinational organizations, and assists clients with supply chain due diligence. In addition to his U.S. qualification, Anthony is admitted to practice as a solicitor in England and Wales, and has deep familiarity with UK and EU sanctions and export control regimes.

“Anthony’s experience handling some of the most sophisticated national security and international trade matters gives him a well-rounded perspective into the challenges that companies operating in the global marketplace encounter,” said Justin A. Chiarodo, Partner and Chair of the firm’s Government Contracts group. “His strong relationships across key government agencies bolsters our firm’s abilities to advocate for clients facing challenging regulatory matters and investigations not only in the United States, but in the UK and EU as well. I look forward to collaborating with Anthony in helping our clients navigate their most challenging national security and international trade matters.”

Anthony works with entities around the world and has experience in a number of industries, including aerospace, defense, energy, technology, software, semiconductors, mining, manufacturing, telecommunications, automotive, financial, shipping, and freight forwarding and logistics.

“We are in a pivotal moment for sanctions and export controls policy that calls for a holistic approach to national security and geopolitical issues, and Blank Rome’s deep reserve of multidisciplinary capabilities and strong focus on a collaborative approach to client service and commitment to growth will position our clients for success,” added Rapa. “The opportunity to work with such talented people was something I couldn’t pass up. This is a great firm to call home.”

Anthony received his J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law, summa cum laude, and his B.A. from Drew University, summa cum laude. During law school, Anthony was the comments editor of the Seton Hall Law Review.

About Blank Rome

Blank Rome is an Am Law 100 firm with 14 offices and more than 600 attorneys and principals who provide comprehensive legal and advocacy services to clients operating in the United States and around the world. Our professionals have built a reputation for their leading knowledge and experience across a spectrum of industries and are recognized for their commitment to pro bono work in their communities. Since our inception in 1946, Blank Rome’s culture has been dedicated to providing top-level service to all of our clients and has been rooted in the strength of our diversity and inclusion initiatives. For more information, please visit blankrome.com.

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By Rebecca L. Palmer
When a marriage is on the rocks, it’s difficult not to continually blame your partner for what went wrong in your marriage. As your life goes through drastic emotional and financial changes, fanning the flames of blame during the divorce mediation can delay the process, increase animosity, and prevent you from getting on with your life.
No-fault divorce is one way separated couples can be granted a dissolution of marriage without assigning fault in the court proceeding. Also referred to as irreconcilable differences or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, a no-fault divorce does not require proof of misconduct or the placement of blame on either spouse when submitting a dissolution of marriage petition. Florida is one of 17 states in the U.S. that adheres to a no-fault divorce process. All states recognize no-fault divorces, and each state has its own separation requirements before one spouse can formally file for divorce. To navigate the process in the state of Florida and outside its jurisdiction, it is wise to consult a family law attorney to make sure you are adhering to the law and that your rights are being protected.
A no-fault divorce does not relieve either party of personal accountability in the breakdown of the marriage; it simply does not have to be a part of the petition and court proceedings during the fault divorce process. Without a burden of proof needed, there is no legal directive to go into the private details of the marriage and find reasons, such as alleged infidelity, to illustrate support for the petitioner’s divorce request. Also, unique to the no-fault divorce process, one spouse cannot refuse the divorce petition. A refusal of the request will serve as support to the dissolution request by giving an example of the irretrievable breakdown of the relationship. In most cases, no-fault divorces are typically quicker, less expensive, and not as intense or emotionally draining as fault divorces can be. In Florida, it is only necessary to let the court know the marriage is broken and request a dissolution.
Even though it is referred to as “no-fault,” fault can be used to illustrate wrongdoing that would affect the rights to distribution of marital funds. No-fault divorce doesn’t mean that a party can walk away from a marriage without being held accountable for their actions. The Florida courts can still address any actions during the marriage that negatively affected the opposing spouse.
A common misunderstanding is that a no-fault divorce is the same as an “uncontested” divorce. The only way a divorce is uncontested is if all the provisions outlined in a divorce decree, such as child custody, alimony, and division of assets, have been agreed upon.

One potential drawback of a no-fault divorce is that there is no opportunity for either party to share the circumstances that led to the breakdown of the marriage during the proceedings. If this is a crucial element for you to achieve closure and move forward with your life, you may want to seek the counsel of a family law professional.
Long, drawn out, divorces can take a heavy emotional and financial toll. Be sure you understand the ramifications of choosing a no-fault divorce, as it may be the best course for you.
Rebecca L. Palmer, Esq. is a Family & Marital Law attorney practicing in Orlando, FL. She is the Managing Partner of the Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group, and she can be reached at rebecca@rlpvlawgroup.com

DALLAS – The trial work of Michael Lyons and Chris Simmons has earned the Lyons & Simmons, LLP co-founders selection among Dallas’s top lawyers for 2022.

Lyons and Simmons were each named to D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas listing based on their work on behalf of plaintiffs in high-stakes personal injury litigation.

This is the ninth selection for Lyons, who has previously earned recognition for both his personal injury and business litigation work from the magazine. The respected trial attorney also has earned individual honors from The Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers – Texas Top 100 and DFW Top 100, Lawdragon 500, and the National Law Journal. He is a member of the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums.

Simmons’ work on behalf of plaintiffs who have been catastrophically injured or killed by the negligence of others helped propel him to his third selection among Dallas’ best lawyers. A member of the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums, his work has also earned recognition by Best Lawyers in America, Lawdragon 500, the National Law Journal, and Texas Super Lawyers.

Lyons & Simmons has a reputation for obtaining outstanding results in cases involving life-altering personal injuries, wrongful death, and “bet-the-company” business disputes. The firm was honored with the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association’s prestigious 2021 John Howie Award, which is presented to firms that exemplify the “courageous pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.”

The Best Lawyers in Dallas is based on a comprehensive selection process that starts with peer nominations and includes extensive review by the magazine’s editorial staff, assisted by a blue-ribbon panel of attorneys. The complete 2022 list is featured in the May issue of D Magazine.

About Lyons & Simmons LLP

Dallas-based Lyons & Simmons, LLP is a trial boutique representing clients in wrongful death, personal injury, products liability and complex “bet-the-company” business litigation matters across the country. To learn more, visit http://www.Lyons-Simmons.com.

Abdón Pedrajas Littler, a leading labor and employment law firm in Spain and part of Litter, the world’s largest employment and labor law practice representing management, has opened an office in Valencia, Spain. The office will be led by partner Javier Molina, who is part of a six-lawyer team joining from law firm Cuatrecasas.

In addition to building on the firm’s existing operations in Spain in Madrid and Barcelona, the new Valencia office follows Littler’s November 2021 expansion into Portugal when DCM Lawyers (now DCM | Littler) joined its global platform.

“We’re thrilled to continue our growth in the Iberian Peninsula and to add a third office in Spain,” said Erin Webber, Littler’s managing director and president. “The ongoing expansion of our European footprint has been a core part of our global growth strategy and we have built a strong team across 27 offices in 12 European countries. Javier and his colleagues are an ideal addition to our talented team and will serve as a great resource for our clients.”

Molina brings nearly three decades of experience in labor relations and deep knowledge of the Valencian community. His practice focuses on counseling employers on collective bargaining and productive decentralization processes, as well as on issues related to workplace accidents and occupational risk prevention. He also advises on labor matters for German companies doing business in Spain, as well as Spanish companies operating in Germany.

“Valencia is a strategic location for our growth trajectory, both in Spain and across Europe,” said Antonio Pedrajas, managing partner of Abdón Pedrajas Littler. “The new office anchored by Javier and his team, all of whom are recognized leaders in labor law with extensive knowledge of the Valencian legal market, will allow us to expand our services, while continuing to provide top quality counsel to our clients.”

Along with Molina, the attorneys joining Abdón Pedrajas Littler in Valencia include Patricia Madrona García, Amparo Bru Mundi, Gemma Pla Peris, Maite Martínez Otero and Raquel Romero González.

Stephan Swinkels, a Littler shareholder who helps lead the development and integration of the firm’s global practice added: “In addition to providing us with a presence in Spain’s three largest cities and expanding our ability to serve clients operating throughout Europe and the Iberian Peninsula, this new office further strengthens our Latin American capabilities, given the strong ties between the regions.”

“Littler is the leading firm in labor and employment matters globally, and we look forward to boosting the firm’s presence in the Valencian community,” noted Molina. “It is an exciting move for our team and we are energized by the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Littler’s international operations span four continents – North America, South America, Asia and Europe – and 26 countries, including Austria, Belgium, Brazil (via a correspondent counsel relationship), Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, France, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States (including Puerto Rico) and Venezuela. The firm’s global capabilities also include lawyers with exceptional international experience, including practitioners dually licensed in the U.S. and Australia, Brazil, Japan, New Zealand, Russia and South Africa.

About Littler

With more than 1,600 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.

DALLAS – The publishers of D Magazine have recognized Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson attorney Bridget Moreno Lopez in the 2022 edition of Best Lawyers in Dallas for her work in tax law.

An expert in tax litigation and litigation management, Ms. Lopez has served as the firm’s managing partner of the Dallas office for the last eight years while also overseeing the New York and Boston offices. She is the youngest person appointed to the firm’s management committee. Prior to her appointment to managing partner, Ms. Lopez managed the litigation division for the Dallas office, handling thousands of lawsuits.

“I am inspired by the recognition from my peers,” said Ms. Lopez. “Linebarger is dedicated to our clients and their efforts to improve public service and local communities, and I’m grateful that we are recognized for our work to make North Texas a better place to live.”

A national firm, Linebarger represents governmental entities in 13 states with 49 offices, recovering revenue by collecting delinquent government receivables. The firm has a history of giving back to the communities its clients serve, and Ms. Lopez’s own volunteerism reflects that same commitment to helping others.

She has given her time to numerous organizations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including the H100 Latina Giving Circle and the Latino Cultural Center. Ms. Lopez is a former board member of the DFW International Airport and the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center.

Each year North Texas attorneys nominate D Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Dallas honorees. The magazine’s research staff and an independent panel of distinguished lawyers make the final selections after an extensive review. Those selected are featured in the magazine’s May issue and online at www.dmagazine.com.

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson is a national law firm with 49 offices across the country dedicated to representing governmental entities in collecting delinquent government receivables. For more than 46 years, Linebarger has provided customized collection programs for its public sector clients. For more information, visit https://www.lgbs.com/

We are pleased to announce that effective April 25, 2022, Greensfelder’s Southern Illinois office will be located in O’Fallon, Illinois near the intersection of Highways 50 and 64.

The address for the new office location is 821 W. Highway 50, Suite 303, O’Fallon IL, 62269. All attorney and staff phone numbers and other contact information will remain the same as in the previous office location.

The relocation of the office will allow attorneys and staff to continue top-notch service to clients across Southern Illinois. The close proximity to the interstate and other development in the area will provide the benefit of convenient access for many of our clients and other visitors from around the region. The office will provide room for growth as well as meeting space for client visits, in a new state-of-the-art building.

Trial Lawyers Ben Martin, Laura Baughman Named to D Magazine’s ‘Best’ List

Repeat honors for nationally respected pair for mass torts, multidistrict litigation

DALLAS – When asked by D Magazine researchers to identify the very best trial lawyers in North Texas for mass torts and multidistrict litigation – the ones they’d turn to for their most important lawsuits – peer lawyers in Texas recommended courtroom veterans Ben Martin and Laura Baughman.

The two founders of Dallas-based Martin Baughman law firm earned recognition on the 2022 Best Lawyers in Dallas list for their work on behalf of people injured by defective medical devices. They have represented patients harmed by IVC filters used to prevent blood clots, surgical staples, and transvaginal mesh, among other products involved in mass torts. The D Magazine honors are based on votes by peer lawyers and vetting by a blue-ribbon panel.

In addition to litigation involving medical device and pharmaceutical defects, Ms. Baughman and Mr. Martin have built a team of trial lawyers with specific expertise. They handle claims involving catastrophic vehicle accidents, oil field explosions, medical and hospital negligence, and a range of other causes of personal injury.

In 2019, Ms. Baughman and Mr. Martin secured the first verdict finding that the Cook IVC filter is defective and dangerous. In 2021, the firm won four verdicts – including record monetary damages – for victims of injuries and serious complications from defective Bard IVC filters. Following those verdicts, the team reached settlements on behalf of hundreds of plaintiffs who sued Bard.

Mr. Martin serves as co-lead counsel in national litigation involving the Cook and Argon IVC filters. In addition, he serves on the plaintiffs’ steering committees in the national Cook, Bard, and Cordis MDLs and the Argon Judicial Council Coordinated Proceedings (JCCP).

Ms. Baughman has held leadership positions in a range of litigation including consumer class actions, toxic torts, and pharmaceutical and medical device litigation on behalf of individuals and public entities. She was co-lead counsel in two of the largest cases involving Proposition 65, a California law that permits private citizens to enforce certain environmental regulations on behalf of individuals and public entities.

Martin Baughman attorneys have helped thousands of victims of accidents and injuries caused by catastrophic vehicular and trucking accidents, oil field explosions, medical and hospital negligence, medical device and pharmaceutical design defects, and personal injuries caused by negligence and gross negligence. For more information, visit https://www.martinbaughman.com.

Moore & Van Allen PLLC (MVA) is pleased to announce that North Carolina Lawyers Weekly (NCLW) has named MVA Member Kimberly Easter Zirkle its 2022 “Lawyer of the Year.”

According to NCLW, the state’s weekly legal industry trade publication, “Minority and underserved populations in Charlotte have a straighter path to justice and prosperity thanks to the efforts of Kimberly Zirkle,” who serves as co-chair of MVA’s Pro Bono and Public Service Committee in addition to her work as a financial services attorney.

The Lawyer of the Year recognition is part of the annual North Carolina Leaders in the Law awards. The awards honor influential members of the North Carolina legal industry who have gone above and beyond in their profession and their community.

“We are tremendously proud of Kimberly’s contributions to our firm and the Charlotte legal community, and we congratulate her on this much deserved recognition as the North Carolina Lawyers Weekly’s ‘Lawyer of the Year,’ ” said Thomas L. Mitchell, MVA’s managing partner and chair of the firm’s Management Committee. “Not only is Kimberly an outstanding financial services attorney, but she is a champion of giving back and an inspiration to all of us in her role as co-leader of our firm’s pro bono and public service initiatives.”

As co-chair of the firm’s Pro Bono and Public Service Committee, Zirkle has helped to drive the firm’s efforts to provide legal representation to individuals who could not otherwise afford hiring an attorney. Zirkle, who began embracing pro bono work during law school, regularly represents victims of domestic violence on a pro bono basis in custody, support and divorce proceedings.

At MVA, Zirkle has worked to include more firm attorneys and better integrate the Pro Bono and Public Service Committee within different practice groups of the firm, and has fostered client partnerships on pro bono matters. MVA’s participation in the Charlotte Pro Bono Triage under Zirkle’s leadership and her push to expand access to justice through innovative collaborations has led to a 60 percent increase in volunteers within the Human Trafficking Pro Bono Project.

In 2021, Zirkle and others at MVA worked with the Robinson Bradshaw law firm to form CLIMB (Charlotte Legal Initiative to Mobilize Businesses), a collaborative effort that provides eligible entrepreneurs and small business owners full-service representation on non-litigation business law matters.

In her practice, Zirkle represents a variety of lenders, private equity portfolio companies, and private companies in corporate finance and acquisition transactions.

Zirkle is actively involved with the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance, serving within the organization’s Systemic Racism Legal Inventory (SRLI) Banking Working Group, which tackles issues within minority communities and access to capital and banking services.

Zirkle received her J.D. (with honors) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tennessee.

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

The Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group to Participate in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk on Saturday, April 30, 2022

By Rebecca L. Palmer
“I want a divorce” are difficult words to say. Reaching this point can be especially difficult when the welfare of children comes into play, and even more so for parents with a special needs child. The issues of child custody, visitation, spousal support, and property division are significantly more complex to negotiate. As part of your divorce proceeding, you will want to make sure that you consider what the “day in the life” of caring for your child looks like and who will be the primary caregiver. You will also need to consider what support your child will require throughout their life, depending on their capacity for independent living and income.

The Dissolution of Marriage agreement is a critical component in determining the ongoing support of your child. In addition to spousal support, separation of assets, and custodial care provisions, specific attention needs to be given to the needs of the child’s current financial care obligations and the responsibility of care. It is imperative to have a conversation about the transition into adulthood, including guardianship, eligibility for government or private agency benefits, employment, recreation, social skills, independent living, and custodial care.
In a typical divorce, child support and custody end at 18 or when the child graduates from college. However, parents with a special needs child will have to plan for life-long caregiving. Under Florida law, the mental or physical incapacity must have begun before 18, when child support otherwise terminates. Investigating how your special needs child will receive financial and protective services as an adult is not exclusive to those parents going through a divorce. Still, the documentation of those agreements certainly is.
Educating yourself on what is needed to provide life-long support for your adult child is imperative; seek counsel from a family law professional and financial planner. They can help explain special needs planning and discuss the opportunities and agencies that can lend support. This may include setting up a Special Needs Trust, determining the right life insurance plan, assigning beneficiaries, and preparing a power of attorney. It is critical to find someone who has expertise in applying for Supplemental Security Income or Florida Medicaid benefits.
Many nonprofit and professional organizations support families with special needs children as they are going through a divorce. It is also essential to get help building a strong, inclusive, and supportive community as you move forward as a single parent. These organizations can introduce you to much-needed services and connect you with like-minded people who can share your experience first-hand and become a support system for you and your child.
One organization is Best Buddies, an international nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group has long supported the Best Buddies Orlando Chapter. In support of their mission and positive impact on our community, our firm will participate in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. The walk will be at Old Town, 5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746. Join us by visiting our Friendship Walk team page, where you can join the team, donate, and share your support on social media. https://www.bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/orlando/supporting/#RLPLaw

Rebecca L. Palmer, Esq. is a Family & Marital Law attorney practicing in Orlando, FL. She is the Managing Partner of the Rebecca L. Palmer Law Group, and she can be reached at rebecca@rlplawgroup.com

The law firm of Norris McLaughlin, P.A., is pleased to welcome Michael J. Willner as a Member in the New York office. Willner joins the firm’s Real Estate, Finance, and Land Use Practice Group.

“Michael’s experience working with individuals and entities involved with managing real estate assets and his work with condominiums and co-ops add valuable depth to our team and enhance the capabilities we are able to provide to our clients,” said Dean M. Roberts, Chair of Norris McLaughlin’s New York Real Estate & Finance Law Practice Group.

Willner commented, “I am pleased to be a part of a reputable team with demonstrated leadership in the condominium and co-op industry in New York and New Jersey and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues across a range of practice areas.”

About Michael J. Willner

Willner focuses his practice on condominium and cooperative law, commercial and residential real estate transactions, and related litigation. He has experience representing condominium and cooperative boards, individual unit owners, shareholders, purchasers and sellers, and landlords and tenants. Willner regularly reviews statutory and common law relating to varied issues including COVID-19 restrictions on use of facilities, unit-owner access to books and records, obligations to maintain, repair and replace common elements, and related landlord/tenant issues. He works strategically with clients to help them achieve their goals, drawing on his understanding of the myriad of laws, zoning issues, and transactional issues to develop a comprehensive approach in his representation.

Prior to joining Norris McLaughlin, Willner managed a practice of more than 35 condominium and co-ops in New York and New Jersey. He has experience appearing before New York Appellate, Supreme and Civil Courts, as well as mediation, arbitration, and ECB hearings. Willner earned his J.D. from the Syracuse University College of Law and his B.A. from Binghamton University, the State University of New York.

DALLAS – D Magazine’s annual Best Lawyers in Dallas edition has recognized Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson partners Scott Downing, Jeff Anderson and Brad LaMorgese for their knowledge and expertise in Family Law.

Honorees are nominated by North Texas lawyers and then vetted by the magazine’s research staff with the help of an independent panel of distinguished lawyers. Those selected are featured in the magazine’s May issue and online at www.dmagazine.com.

“Our firm works hard for the folks who come to us for help,” said Mr. Downing, the firm’s managing partner. “We are proud that our peers recognize our work and look to us as experts in our field.”

Mr. Downing is a skilled trial attorney whose practice focuses on complex high-dollar property and custody cases. Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, he is often honored for his representation of individuals involved in family law disputes. A D Magazine honoree since 2004, he is regularly recognized by Best Lawyers in America and has been a Top 100 Super Lawyer in Texas for the last decade.

Mr. Anderson was first named to D Magazine’s Best Lawyers list in 2002. He has earned recognition over the years for his Family Law expertise and exceptional representation of his clients. Mr. Anderson is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is regularly recognized by Best Lawyers in America. He has made the Texas Super Lawyers’ Top 100 list for Texas and Dallas-Fort Worth over five consecutive years.

Mr. LaMorgese is often recognized for his knowledge and legal strategy involving Family Law appellate work. He is a frequent honoree of Best Lawyers in America and has made the Top 100 Texas and Dallas-Fort Worth Lawyers lists of Super Lawyers since 2013. A partner since 2006, Mr. LaMorgese is also Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. His practice focuses on a range of matters including divorce, pre- and post-marital agreements and interstate and international custody disputes.

Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson (ONDA) has served families with Family Law disputes for more than 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. To learn more, visit https://www.ondafamilylaw.com/.

Miller & Chevalier, along with nine leading Latin American law firms, is pleased to announce the launch of the ComplianceLatam digital platform. The platform will serve as a unique meeting place for users to exchange ideas regarding best compliance practices and corporate governance structures and the development of strong organizational foundations across leading companies in the region.

Miller & Chevalier and the Latin American firms will collaborate on the platform, with leading voices on topics such as environmental, social, and governance (ESG), anti-corruption, antitrust, data protection and privacy, consumer protection, corporate and labor compliance, regulatory compliance, tax compliance, corporate governance, corporate culture, and human rights. It will also focus on compliance in the technology, fintech, and venture capital industries.

“We view this as a unique opportunity for law firms and in-house professionals across Latin America to share ideas and grow from others’ experiences. We look forward to participating and attending various events focusing on compliance challenges that companies in the region are facing and to consider jointly how best to navigate those challenges,” said Jeffrey Lehtman, Member at Miller & Chevalier.

“Our platform is oriented to deliver relevant content with regional scope to enable compliance officers, legal managers, company directors, and other key stakeholders to make better decisions. We seek to be a space for continuous, close, and collaborative consultation, which allows us to create joint value,” said Rodrigo Albagli, partner of Chilean law firm Albagli Zaliasnik, which is spearheading this initiative.

In addition to Miller & Chevalier, ComplianceLatam’s founding firms include: Albagli Zaliasnik (Chile), Basham, Ringe y Correa (Mexico), Estudio Beccar Varela (Argentina), BLP Legal (Central America), Bustamante Fabara Abogados (Ecuador), CPB Abogados (Peru), Demarest Advogados (Brazil), Ferrere Abogados (Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia), and Posse Herrera Ruiz Legal (Colombia).

About ComplianceLatam
Learn more about ComplianceLatam at www.compliancelatam.legal and on LinkedIn and YouTube.

About Miller & Chevalier
Founded in 1920, Miller & Chevalier is a Washington, DC law firm with a global perspective and leading practices in Tax, Litigation, International Law, Employee Benefits (including ERISA), White Collar Defense and Internal Investigations, and Government Affairs. Miller & Chevalier is a top-ranked firm sharply focused on targeted areas that interact with the federal government. Over the past three years, the firm’s lawyers have represented more than 40 percent of the Fortune 100, one-quarter of the Fortune 500, and approximately 30 percent of the Global 100. Based in Washington, DC, a significant number of firm lawyers have held senior positions in the U.S. government and have written many of the regulations they currently help clients navigate. For more information on the firm, visit www.millerchevalier.com.

FORT WORTH – Personal injury partners Steven C. Laird and Seth McCloskey have both earned a place on the 2022 national list of Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers. The ranking by the legal media publication recognizes top attorneys who specialize in bringing justice to consumers.

Courthouse veterans Mr. Laird and Mr. McCloskey are two of only five trial lawyers in North Texas who are board certified in Truck Accident Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

“It’s always a special honor to earn the respect of our peers in the legal industry,” said Mr. Laird. “I am thankful to Lawdragon for recognizing the important work we do for our clients.”

Mr. Laird is also board certified in Civil Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

“It really is an honor to be recognized by Lawdragon on a national list among other esteemed professionals,” said Mr. McCloskey. “The quality of work we are able to perform for our clients is what makes me most proud to be a part of this team.”

Mr. McCloskey is also board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law through the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates, the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the National Board of Trial Advocacy and the Texas Bar College.

Lawdragon is known for its carefully curated lists of the country’s leading lawyers and is considered by legal practitioners as one of the most respected legal ranking organizations in the country. The Lawdragon research team spends several months determining what attorneys are named each year.

About Laird & McCloskey
The Law Offices of Laird & McCloskey is a Fort Worth, Texas, law firm whose lawyers and staff members are committed to finding justice in every case. For more than 30 years, we have worked responsibly and diligently to represent individuals and families in personal injury cases where corporate and individual negligence have resulted in significant injuries and wrongful death. To learn more about the firm, visit http://texlawyers.com/.

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