Chambers USA and Chambers Global Honor Duane Morris Attorneys
Duane Morris' practice groups received 19 citations for excellence in Chambers USA: 2011, and Duane Morris attorneys received an additional 70. The following excerpts from Chambers can also be found at www.chambersandpartners.com.
Antitrust
Pennsylvania
Wayne Mack of Duane Morris LLP has a reputation as "an insightful guy," and keeps his practice varied by taking on a range of commercial, antitrust and securities litigation. He counsels clients on the antitrust aspects of pricing, joint ventures, collaboration and other kinds of transactions, with a particular emphasis on the healthcare field.
Banking and Finance
Illinois
Brian P. Kerwin of Duane Morris LLP is a member of the firm's corporate and finance departments. As such, he is a corporate finance all-rounder, adept at handling lending and capital market transactions as well as M&A deals. Kenneth Latimer, also of Duane Morris, has over 30 years' experience in the market. He focuses on the lender side and is especially active in asset-based, real estate and lease financing.
Pennsylvania
Banking and finance practitioners at Duane Morris work closely with the firm's formidable bankruptcy group. They handle public and private finance transactions for lenders and borrowers alike.
Dianne Meyer divides her time between commercial and municipal finance matters. She is described as "a very knowledgeable lawyer who inspires confidence in her clients." She has broad experience in secured, unsecured and syndicated loan transactions.
Bankruptcy/Restructuring
Delaware
Michael Lastowski's background in litigation, combined with his keen legal knowledge, is an excellent asset in hotly contested cases.
Massachusetts
This group is well known for its expertise in financial restructuring transactions, bankruptcy, insolvency and creditors' rights matters. Sources say [Duane Morris has] "a very sophisticated practice, capable of handling large and challenging cases."
Paul Moore is commended for his broad knowledge base. He is adept advising on reorganizations, workouts and bankruptcies in both a contentious and a noncontentious capacity. Peers describe him as "tenacious and smart ? very talented indeed."
New Jersey
Walter Greenhalgh of Duane Morris LLP stands apart from peers for his "huge pool of knowledge, commanding courtroom presence" and "outstanding advocacy skills." He acts for a mixture of debtors, creditors and trustees, and is developing a distinguished reputation in fraud and Ponzi scheme-related bankruptcies.
Pennsylvania
Duane Morris is highly regarded for its work in the field of bankruptcy and creditors' rights. The team predominantly acts for institutional secured creditors. With offices across the country the firm is well placed to assist large corporate clients in major cases. Sources say [Duane Morris is] "an excellent bankruptcy and creditors' rights firm."
Rudolph Di Massa is highly skilled at "consensus building and pulling complex issues together." He is well known as a bankruptcy and insolvency litigator, acting predominantly on behalf of creditors. He chairs the firm's business reorganization and restructuring group.
Margery Reed's practice covers bankruptcy and other issues affecting distressed businesses. She is described as "an extremely smart and capable attorney who can negotiate deals with numerous creditors simultaneously." She is a popular choice with financial institutions, insurance companies and other creditors.
Sources praise Lawrence Kotler as "an intelligent and tenacious lawyer." He acts on behalf of distressed businesses, debtors, creditors' committees and trustees.
John Horstmann comes highly recommended for restructuring and workouts. Peers consider him "a very bright and effective attorney."
James Holman is one of several Duane Morris bankruptcy and commercial finance attorneys practicing out of the firm's Pennsylvania and New York offices. One client enthused: "He is a very solid lawyer; he gives reasoned and careful counsel."
Capital Markets: REITs
National
Douglas Lubelchek of Duane Morris LLP advises publicly traded and private REITs, real estate development companies and private equity funds. He is particularly known for his joint venture experience.
Construction
National
With 20 offices across the United States, Duane Morris offers excellent geographical coverage. Its sizeable team of construction specialists works alongside the firm's tax, finance, environmental, and energy experts to provide comprehensive advice on transactional and litigation issues associated with construction. In the past twelve months, the lawyers have assisted Barclays Capital Real Estate and Vail Development with a $27 million lawsuit pertaining to the Four Seasons Hotel in Vail, Colorado. Sources say: "This is an excellent, very capable group of attorneys."
Philadelphia-based Robert Prentice is the head of the construction practice. He has been assisting contractors, subcontractors, owners, architects and sureties with litigation cases and contract preparation for over 30 years.
Illinois
This impressive national construction practice is extremely active. The group primarily represents large national and international general contractors and owners in construction projects and related disputes and litigation.
Charles Lewis is highly regarded for his excellent mediation and arbitration skills. Sources praise expertise earned representing a range of clients in numerous complex and high-profile projects and litigations.
New York
The New York branch of this nationwide firm handles all areas of construction law. The 18-strong group acts for an impressive client list composed of private owners and developers, construction managers, contractors and subcontractors, equipment suppliers and design professionals. Highlights from the recent past include advising HBO on all legal issues relating to the design and construction of a 50,000 sq ft communications and broadcasting center. Sources say [this is] "an excellent group of construction professionals at a regional powerhouse of a firm."
With over 40 years' experience under his belt, Allen Ross is "undoubtedly one of the finest construction lawyers in New York." He recently displayed his great know-how assisting with the preparation and negotiation of construction contracts for a $400 million mixed-use project.
Frederick Cohen is a construction trial lawyer and another experienced market figure, having chalked up 35 years in the game. His clients include IBEX Construction and Barclays Capital.
Richard Dyer and Ken Lazaruk add to the gravitas, each having been in the market for three decades and counting. Both are well versed in construction litigation, Dyer also handling transactions, Lazaruk winning acclaim for contract work.
Arthur Silverman completes a team strong on experience, in his case as much for his engineering background as for his longevity. He advises on projects, transactions and disputes.
Washington, D.C.
Dan Toomey of Duane Morris LLP continues to focus on construction and government contract-related litigation.
Corporate/M&A/Private Equity/Venture Capital
Illinois
This midmarket practice advises clients on corporate finance, acquisitions and compliance. The group represents companies at all stages of the business cycle, as well as venture capital and private equity funds and other financial investors.
David Kaufman typifies the department in that his repertoire spans M&A, securities, private equity and corporate counsel. Brian Kerwin is likewise a corporate finance all-rounder, described as "a business lawyer and a solid deal-maker with lots of common sense."
Maryland
Jay Cohen of Duane Morris LLP is experienced in representing clients in venture capital and private equity investments. His practice has an international dimension, advising clients in Korea and the Persian Gulf.
Pennsylvania
Duane Morris has offices in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, and is recognized for M&A venture capital and securities matters. The team is best known for its skill in acting for banks and other financial institutions seeking to acquire other companies within the financial services sector. Sources say [Duane Morris is] "a very capable firm with a great deal of expertise; the team is very responsive and attentive."
Richard Jaffe acts on both private equity and M&A matters. Observers say: "He knows the market and the private equity industry extremely well." He has particular expertise for venture capital investments in the alternative energy, technology, life sciences, retail and manufacturing industries.
Kathleen Shay represents clients in venture capital transactions, securities compliance and M&A. She is particularly adept in handling matters for emerging companies in the life sciences industry. One client enthuses: "You feel like you're her only client; she pays attention and gives extraordinarily practical advice."
Having previously worked in-house at a biopharmaceutical company, David Toner is recommended for M&A matters in the sector. He is noted for his work in private equity and venture capital transactions.
John Coogan frequently advises startups and emerging businesses. He has deep industry knowledge of the healthcare, technology and energy sectors.
Richard Silfen is described as "a very smart lawyer." He advises on M&A, private equity and securities matters.
Energy and Natural Resources
National
Sheila Slocum Hollis of Duane Morris LLP enjoys a longstanding reputation in federal energy regulation matters. She has extensive experience in reliability, compliance and enforcement and general policy matters, having previously worked as director of the office of enforcement at the FERC. Clients appreciate her "incredible relationships with regulators, legislators and other government personnel."
Environment
New Jersey
Lawrence Diamond of Duane Morris LLP receives effusive praise for his recent work in handling contaminated land, pollution and cleanup disputes. His knack for producing a "top-quality work product" has drawn him into several complex investigations involving former industrial sites and even contentious permitting matters in such jurisdictions as the Caribbean.
Healthcare
National
Joanne Erde of Duane Morris LLP is a preeminent expert on reimbursement issues. She is based in the firm's Miami office, and is lauded for having an "absolutely fabulous practice."
Florida
This compact group provides healthcare clients with transactional, tax and corporate advice. In addition, it is recommended for its representation in administrative, state and federal trials, and has in the last year been particularly busy in the fraud enforcement area. Sources say [the practice is] "organized, creative, aggressive and brilliant."
Joanne Erde is consistently praised by peers as "one of the best reimbursement lawyers there is." She provides hospitals and other healthcare providers with advice and representation on Medicare and Medicaid payment, coverage and compliance issues.
The "impressive and excellent" Nanette O'Donnell focuses on regulatory issues, including federal and state antikickback, self-referral, corporate compliance, licensure of healthcare facilities and managed care. In addition to her technical capacity, sources commend her personable approach.
Illinois
Nicholas Lynn of Duane Morris LLP acts as general counsel for long-term nursing care homes and is heavily involved in healthcare litigation. He represented the National Association of Chain Drug Stores in dissuading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from implementing rule changes which would cost pharmacies participating in Medicaid $31 billion.
Immigration
Florida
Hector Chichoni has recently moved to Duane Morris LLP. He offers the full range of immigration services, including initial applications and accompanying compliance issues, to clients ranging from individuals to large companies in the oil and gas industry. Clients praise his "diligence and delicacy in dealing with potentially sensitive issues."
Washington, D.C.
This strong immigration group advises a range of clients, including Fortune 500 companies and small startup ventures, on immigrant and non-immigrant visa applications, corporate transactions, I-9 compliance training and the tax ramifications of immigration status. Of note is the firm's investment in a state-of-the-art case management database, ImmigrationTracker, ensuring efficient handling of matters from the manufacturing, banking, shipping and biotech sectors. Sources say [that] "Duane Morris has a substantial and top-rated immigration practice."
Former president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Denyse Sabagh is "a real icon in the immigration field." She focuses on immigration, nationality law and litigation matters, and interviewees agree that she is a "well-respected practitioner with tremendous litigation experience."
Andres Benach is considered a "go-to attorney when it comes to representing individuals in complex government cases." Best known for his complex removal expertise, he has a wealth of experience in adjustment of status, naturalization, asylum and federal litigation matters.
Insurance
National
A dominant footprint on the West Coast affords this well-regarded firm a healthy national presence in the full range of insurer-side coverage disputes. The sizable team represents insurers and reinsurers on a domestic and international level in matters involving property, casualty, life, disability, health and professional liability. The practice is also deeply respected for the work it carries out in relation to the London market. Sources say: "A strong group of lawyers who are excellent representatives of the industry."
Philip Matthews is highly regarded and "functions equally well in the context of complex litigation and in the corridors of the courthouse," according to clients. Peers are also quick to point out his impressive litigation acumen, particularly with regard to complex asbestos disputes.
Andrew Gordon specializes in complex insurance coverage matters with experience in several Western states. His practice also covers commercial litigation and environmental matters.
Richard Seabolt coheads the firm's commercial, securities and antitrust trial practice group. His broad practice incorporates complex insurance disputes alongside contentious matters involving construction and technology.
Senior New York of counsel Thomas Newman dedicates his insurance and reinsurance practice to claims handling, contract drafting and dispute resolution. He also has an active appellate practice.
California
Many peers single out this firm as a major competitor in the West Coast market for complex insurance matters on behalf of the industry. Key areas of work for this deep and talented group are asbestos coverage and bankruptcy, and the practice also features in numerous environmental and pollution-related cases including various high-value toxic torts. The team is also involved in directors and officers (D&O) and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance claims. Sources say [this is] "a leading firm with excellent coverage attorneys and a wonderful client base."
High-end litigator and "leader of the bar" Philip Matthews advises on insurance disputes as well as civil litigation matters. Peers on the policyholder side view him as one of their most remarkable adversaries due to his analytical and strategic abilities. His dispute resolution practice includes mediation and acting as specialist settlement counsel.
Ray Wong's insurance work forms part of a diverse practice that incorporates business, employment and civil litigation. He is consistently singled out as a "bright, capable, knowledgeable guy and a fine lawyer."
Strong trial lawyer Andrew Gordon handles pollution cases and D&O liability claims. Sources describe him as "a very good lawyer who has a great depth of experience in very large lawsuits."
Nationally renowned litigator Richard Seabolt retains an active involvement in insurance, as well as technology and construction disputes in a wide-ranging commercial practice. His vast experience in the field continues to make him a formidable proposition in the courtroom.
Max Stern heads the insurance division of the firm's trial practice group. He is involved in various liability, workers' compensation, property and personal accident matters.
New York
Senior practitioner Thomas Newman of Duane Morris LLP is considered an authority on a wide range of insurance matters, including coverage claims and contract drafting.
Intellectual Property
Georgia
This team attracts a wide client base, ranging from large multinational corporations to individual inventors, authors and owners of creative works. It has a broad base of expertise in contentious and non-contentious matters, covering patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and unfair competition. Sources say [that] "litigation is second nature to this team. The lawyers always make you feel like you are in safe hands."
Louis Norwood Jameson represents clients in a broad range of IP litigation, including trademark, trade dress and copyright, but is particularly well recognized for his success in patent litigation. Matthew Gaudet is recommended for his experience in the technology sector.
Massachusetts
Michael Gottfried of Duane Morris LLP is adept at handling trademark, patent and copyright infringement matters.
Pennsylvania
This firm has a diverse bench in its Pennsylvania IP group, with attorneys handling a variety of contentious and noncontentious patent, trademark and copyright issues in industries including biosciences, materials, chemicals, polymers, electronics and telecom.
Peter Cronk is an IP generalist advising clients on everything from trademark disputes to technology transfer, although he is primarily known for his patent litigation practice. He has particular expertise concerning building materials, glass fabrics and medical devices. Peers describe him as "an excellent patent litigator and a respected member of the Bar."
Labor and Employment
Florida
Duane Morris has recently acquired six labor & employment lawyers from Epstein Becker, launching it into the spotlight in this area. The team handles union avoidance, arbitration and employment litigation, including significant wage and hour class actions.
The firm's most notable new hire is star lawyer Michael Casey. He maintains a diverse practice, offering union negotiation services, defending discrimination, retaliation and wage and hour claims, and advising clients on compliance as well as noncompete and trade secret issues. He has argued cases before the state and federal courts, the EEOC and the NLRB, earning him an extensive fan base. "I love working with him – he is so responsive and hands-on, and he has a wonderful trial strategy," one source said.
Praised for his research and writing skills, Richard Tuschman "does beautiful work," sources say. His litigation experience in front of the state and federal courts includes, among other successes, securing the dismissal of an age discrimination charge against a Fortune 200 corporation.
Georgia
The practice at Duane Morris in Atlanta incorporates immigration and employee benefits experience, as well as expertise in traditional labor and employment law. The group offers practical counseling to resolve employment disputes, and represents clients before state and federal courts and agencies, including the EEOC.
Joseph Ciucci's practice focuses on employment litigation, traditional labor law and counseling in employee relations matters. Ciucci has appeared before the EEOC and NLRB on behalf of clients and represents management in collective bargaining negotiations and labor arbitrations.
Terry Finnerty concentrates on handling employment disputes, including defense of discrimination claims, wage and hour litigation and wrongful discharge cases.
Pennsylvania
From its two Pennsylvania offices in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Duane Morris advises clients on aspects of labor, employment, employee benefits and immigration law. It also runs training workshops for HR managers and in-house counsel.
Thomas Servodidio chairs the employment, labor, benefits and immigration group in Philadelphia. He handles employment discrimination litigation alongside traditional labor work, often appearing before the NLRB representing clients in unfair labor practice proceedings.
Jonathan Segal advises in-house counsel and managers on a variety of regulatory and other labor and employment issues. He also counsels nonunionized companies on union avoidance and aids unionized clients in collective bargaining negotiations.
Litigation
New Jersey
Gregory Haworth of Duane Morris LLP "knows how to engage the attention of a courtroom," commentators note. He has a strong line in lender and securities-related litigation and has provided representation to some of the country's leading financial institutions.
Pennsylvania
This firm's Pennsylvania litigation team spans offices in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. It has broad experience in commercial litigation, representing clients in cases ranging from securities actions and IP disputes to employment litigation and construction law claims.
Firm Chairman John Soroko specializes in corporate and securities defense litigation and professional liability. He is also "a very well-known construction lawyer."
Sources describe Matthew Taylor as "a superb, hard-working lawyer." Head of the trial practice, he focuses on lawsuits relating to product liability, medical devices, securities and employment. He has also handled several cases concerning computer software license disputes and software and hardware installation.
Dana Klinges undertakes securities and business cases for corporate clients, but is perhaps best known for her work defending consumer class actions for a variety of clients in the mortgage, leasing, credit card, retail and healthcare sectors. "She's a very talented attorney."
David Landau is "a talented and formidable lawyer to come up against," say peers. He focuses on IP disputes, including those involving trademark, copyright, software and e-commerce.
Real Estate
Illinois
Douglas Lubelchek of Duane Morris LLP specializes in handling complex transactions involving private equity funds and REITs. "He's a great advocate with a very balanced and easygoing approach," say clients.
Maryland
Thomas Totten of Duane Morris LLP is commended for his experience in real estate development and finance. He focuses on representing commercial banks and institutional lenders in loan portfolio sales.
Pennsylvania
This group offers substantial know-how in a wide range of matters relating to the sale, acquisition, construction, finance and restructuring of property. It specializes particularly in eminent domain and land value litigation.
Peers respect Marc Brookman for his experience in both general real estate and in zoning and land use matters, agreeing that he is "a pleasure to work with and he really knows how to get a deal done."
Drew K. Kapur represents private property owners in disputes concerning eminent domain and condemnation issues. He also counsels on relocation assistance and highway access management and control.
George Kroculick counsels on relocation assistance and highway access management and control, and also focuses on leasing litigation and title disputes.
David Augustin is highlighted for his transactional practice; he represents commercial property buyers, sellers and lenders in financing matters.