Chambers USA and Chambers Global Honor Duane Morris Attorneys
Duane Morris' practice groups received 20 citations for excellence in Chambers USA: 2013, and Duane Morris attorneys received an additional 61. The following excerpts from Chambers can also be found at www.chambersandpartners.com.
Banking & Finance
Pennsylvania
Dianne Meyer of Duane Morris LLP is highly regarded by both peers and clients, with sources noting that she is "efficient," "timely" and "always very responsive." Recent highlights include representing the lender in a $75 million credit facility to a piping systems manufacturer.
Bankruptcy/Restructuring
Delaware
Michael Lastowski of Duane Morris LLP is an experienced bankruptcy litigator, but is noted for his ability to turn his hand to any kind of matter.
Massachusetts
This team has established a name for itself in debtor representation, but also undertakes significant creditors' committee and potential acquirers work. The practice is national in scope, and the team has strong capabilities in the bankruptcy hubs of New York and Delaware. The team continues to represent the unsecured creditors' committee in the Quincy Medical Center Chapter 11 case.
Sources say: "They have great geographical coverage. They are very competent attorneys and very responsive."
Paul Moore is a masterful and much-admired attorney in the bankruptcy space. Impressed observers comment: "When he's on the other side from you, you know you're going to have your hands full!" He continues to represent CrossHarbor Capital in connection with a Chapter 7 filing.
Jeffrey Sternklar is renowned for committee work. He continues to serve as counsel to the unsecured creditors' committee in the Quincy Medical Center case, and successfully negotiated a substantial recovery for the unsecured creditors. "He represents his clients' interests in an intelligent way and is forceful when necessary. He always moves toward a consensual resolution."
New Jersey
Walter Greenhalgh of Duane Morris LLP is experienced across the full spectrum of bankruptcy law and is lauded by peers as "a passionate advocate with an excellent knowledge of bankruptcy and commercial litigation."
Pennsylvania
Duane Morris is highlighted for the depth of its bankruptcy department and its prominence in this field. The firm has a strong profile for its representation of both secured and unsecured creditors, and also frequently acts for a range of other parties in both national and international bankruptcy proceedings. Recent highlights include acting for the Italian trustee in a bankruptcy case pending in Italy and the USA.
Sources say: "A very strong and well-established firm with a good bankruptcy practice."
Margery Reed has a broad practice, with a focus on insurance insolvency and commercial finance. She has advised both property and casualty insurance companies in connection with the Chapter 11 bankruptcies of such companies as Residential Capital, Hostess Brands and Chrysler. "She is terrific," sources agree.
Rudolph Di Massa chairs the firm's business reorganization and financial restructuring group, and comes highly recommended for his experience in contentious bankruptcy matters, including in relation to cross-border insolvency. He acted as counsel to the Italian trustee of Think3 on the aforementioned case in Bologna, Italy and Austin, Texas.
James Holman divides his time between Philadelphia and Wilmington, Delaware, where he operates a strong lender-side practice. Recent highlights include work for Principal Life Insurance and UBS in connection with the restructuring of loan facilities in relation to Chapter 11 reorganization proceedings.
Lawrence Kotler acted for the Executive Sounding Board Associates as the liquidating trustee in the bankruptcy of Metaldyne.
Construction
National
The experienced construction practice at Duane Morris represents a varied client base, including subcontractors, owners, architects and developers, and others. It provides in-depth knowledge in both litigation and transactional matters, relating to the financing, design and development of projects. The team recently acted for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in a dispute with the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey in relation to $300 million of construction costs. Other key clients include Zeckendorf Development, Airis Holdings and Columbia University.
Client Service: "They're very practical and they've dealt with every situation before, so they always know how to deal with everything that comes up."
Commercial Awareness: "They have a real depth of experience and a very deep understanding of the construction business."
Albert Bates and Robert Prentice, both based in Pennsylvania, are cochairs of the construction practice. Bates concentrates his practice on arbitration, on a domestic and international level, as well as construction litigation. Prentice has extensive experience representing owners, contractors, architects and subcontractors.
California
This team undertakes a variety of transactional construction matters and disputes, with extensive experience in litigation and methods of alternative dispute resolution. Recent work highlights include acting for a major telecommunications installation contractor on a delay claim. The team also advises on government contracts, public-private partnerships and agreements with government agencies.
Sources say: "A significant player in the construction business."
Robert Hendrickson is a very well-established construction practitioner who enjoys an excellent reputation for his work representing contractors in construction disputes.
Lock Holmes is an experienced attorney who wins praise for his practical approach. His expertise lies in government contracts and the negotiation of construction documentation.
Illinois
This firm's construction practice provides advice across an array of transactional and litigation construction matters. The firm regularly assists private and public owners, design professionals, contractors and suppliers. It is also very active in sureties on a range of project segments and is particularly strong at mediation and arbitration.
Sources say: "Very thorough and extremely knowledgeable in construction matters."
"One of the best construction attorneys in Chicago," Charles Lewis is appreciated for being unerringly prompt and knowledgeable in this field. He is especially recommended as one of the state's leading mediators in the construction sector.
New York
This experienced construction group advises clients from all areas of the industry on the full spectrum of issues, including bid protests, delay claims and contract defaults and terminations. In a representative highlight of the past year, the team has been acting as counsel to a high-end Manhattan condominium developer.
Sources say: "They're very responsive, very professional, very thorough." "They have a real depth of experience and a very deep understanding of the construction business."
Arthur Silverman is "one of the deans of the New York construction Bar" and is extremely experienced in the area, with sources describing him as a "big-picture person." He has been advising a developer client on the high-profile conversion of landmark buildings into residential condominiums.
Frederick Cohen is well known in the New York market, and recently represented Madison Equities in connection with the contracts for a 150,000 sq ft hotel and residential development in Soho.
Interviewees appreciate that Richard Dyer is "very responsive and very clear with everything." Lately, he has been part of the team representing a client in a $300 million dispute with the Port Authority, relating to the 9/11 Memorial.
Ken Lazaruk offers particular expertise on transactional matters. He acts as construction counsel for a number of clients active on major projects, such as Columbia University and Related Management, the owners of the Time Warner Center.
Sources hold the "exceptionally capable" Allen Ross in high regard. In the past year he has been involved in a major piece of litigation for a large developer client.
Washington, D.C.
Dan Toomey of Duane Morris LLP is a respected real estate attorney who represents owners, suppliers, design professionals, contractors and subcontractors in construction litigation. He also has experience of alternative dispute resolution. "He's got a tremendous amount of litigation experience and is good at presenting facts to judges and juries," sources say.
Corporate/M&A/Private Equity/Securities
Illinois
Duane Morris acts on a range of M&A and private equity issues, including joint ventures, securities, compliance and corporate governance. The team is well versed in both domestic and international matters, and in a recent highlight it acted for the US subsidiary of CJ CheiJedang in its joint venture with Cargill to build a lysine production facility.
Sources say: "They're very good, and aside from being technically proficient they come up with practical solutions."
Brian Kerwin recently acted on behalf of Avee Laboratories, Screen Tox, and Global Analytical Development on their sale to ATS Laboratories. Sources reserve particular praise for his communication skills.
Maryland
This practice is noted for its strengths advising corporate clients in the formation of business entities and regulatory compliance. It also comes recommended for handling succession planning matters, and for its work regarding the rights and relationships of owners and stockholders. Recent work includes counseling Metropolitan Regional Information Systems in restructurings, investments and acquisitions in other companies.
Sources say: "Their approach to client management and engagement sets them apart from other firms." "They are strong and experienced. If they don't have the answer at their fingertips, they know where to go."
Jay Cohen maintains a particularly fine track record handling venture capital and private equity investments. "Jay is as important to me, if not more, than a key member of my management team or board member. Client service is his strength!" notes one enthusiastic client.
[Partner] Douglas Howard is routinely called upon to advise on corporate governance, securities law and equity and debt financing, in addition to his expertise in M&A. According to one client, Howard is "very capable and detail-oriented and has a good grasp of the business environment."
Pennsylvania
This firm has worked to significantly expand its corporate department in the past twelve months, while maintaining its principal focus on middle-market private equity transactions. With expertise across a wide array of industries the team is well equipped to provide clients with high-quality legal advice at competitive rates.
Sources say: "Not only have they done very good legal work, they have also been extremely good at helping with business aspects as well."
Kathleen Shay is widely praised by clients for her practical approach and "tremendous legal acumen." Sources note she is "very diligent, very thorough and makes herself available whenever needed." Shay recently led the team negotiating a $40 million transaction for Agile Therapeutics.
Richard Silfen heads the capital markets group at the practice. Highly regarded for his securities work, he advises clients on M&A and regularly counsels companies in relation to debt and equity securities offerings.
Clients appreciate that Richard Jaffe "understands the business side of the equation" and note that he is "always available, very responsive and very thoughtful." Recent highlights include representing Point Judith Capital in connection with investment in a portfolio company.
John Coogan represents clients across a range of corporate transactions including M&A, venture capital financings and securities offerings. He recently advised Sure Fit in the acquisition of its outdoor line from Trilink.
Energy
National
"The extremely well-respected" Sheila Slocum Hollis of Duane Morris LLP "has done an excellent job representing our interests," a satisfied client asserts. She has a wealth of experience in the gamut of regulatory issues including compliance concerns and in investigations, and was recently called upon by Trinity River Authority to represent it before FERC in a hydroelectric licensing issue.
Environment
New Jersey
Lawrence Diamond at Duane Morris LLP has over 30 years of experience in defending clients in both state and federal enforcement proceedings. Clients are enthusiastic in their feedback, describing him as "persuasive in his arguments and approach, with strong problem-solving capabilities—he consistently gets good results."
Healthcare
National
Duane Morris LLP's Joanne Erde is recognized as a leading light in Medicare and Medicaid arena, and is well versed in handling cases across the country before the Provider Reimbursement Review Board, state administrative agencies and the federal courts.
Florida
This team combines the benefits of a large national footprint with specialized local knowledge of the healthcare market. The firm has an impressive team of Medicare and Medicaid specialists who are highly qualified to advise on reimbursement and other issues. Other areas of expertise include Stark Law, contracts and M&A.
Sources say: "A specialist in reimbursement in the Miami area."
Joanne Erde is nothing short of prolific in the Medicaid space, recently advising dozens of clients on reimbursement and billing and Medicaid rules. Sources describe her as "very bright" and acknowledge her "tremendous reputation."
Nanette O'Donnell is described as a "terrific attorney" and an "excellent healthcare lawyer." She is noted for her extensive experience working with HMOs on transactions and ongoing advisory matters.
Illinois
The highly regarded Nicholas Lynn of Duane Morris LLP comes recommended for his expertise in pharmaceutical law and long-term care issues. He also advises on healthcare litigation and regulation matters.
Immigration
National
This fine immigration practice focuses on corporate immigration and related litigation. The team has substantial experience in a full set of immigration matters including immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, and compliance and training, and is also noted for its adroit handling of removals issues and corporate transactions.
Sources say: "Responsive and extremely knowledgeable."
The "absolutely stellar" Denyse Sabagh heads the immigration group and is admired for the passion she exudes throughout her work in assisting corporate clients with managing their immigration programs. She also maintains a strong track record in removal litigation.
California
Lisa Spiegel of Duane Morris LLP has been involved in the representation of startup companies and individuals in creative industries. While the majority of her work is focused on business immigration, she also maintains an active practice in family immigration and deportation cases.
Florida
Hector Chichoni of Duane Morris LLP offers an extensive array of immigration services to his corporate and individual clients. He has recently advised a portfolio of investors and business clients on outbound visa requirements.
Washington, D.C.
The Duane Morris immigration practice in Washington, DC has an excellent reputation in the field. The team handles a wide range of immigration matters for companies, including immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, compliance and related training, and the consequences of corporate reorganizations. Individuals are similarly well served, and the firm has expertise in immigration-related criminal matters, asylum and removal, and related litigation.
Sources say: "They are always available, and they know our policies and practices."
Denyse Sabagh is highly regarded for her diverse set of skills. Sources describe her as the "best of the best," noting that "she is just extraordinary." She counsels individuals and companies in all areas of immigration and naturalization including EB-5 cases, I-9 compliance, corporate immigration strategy, outbound immigration and removal defense.
Insurance
National
Duane Morris is known as a leader in the California insurance Bar. With 20 offices across the USA and international branches in Vietnam, Singapore and the UK, Duane Morris has expanded to affirm its presence globally. The team is prominent in insurance coverage disputes, with core expertise in environmental and professional liability matters.
Sources say: "We found them to be very proficient in arbitration but also in general matters—very bright lawyers and their work is of very high quality."
Philip Matthews is a highly esteemed insurance litigator. He is known as "somebody who pursues a client's case thoroughly and is incredibly professional in doing it." He has recently dealt with the Thorpe Insulation bankruptcy arising out of asbestos cases.
Senior statesman Thomas Newman "knows the business inside and out." He has wide experience in appellate courts, where he argues reinsurance and insurance coverage disputes.
Andrew Gordon enjoys a "good reputation for London market issues." He recently acted for CNA in settling a London market coverage case just before jury selection.
California
This team stands out for its expertise in asbestos and environment-related disputes. Clients particularly praise its effective handling of complex arbitrations. The team has a longstanding practice in general liability matters and deep experience in sophisticated cases. The group has recently represented American Centennial in high-value coverage matters, including a range of issues involving bankruptcy and pollution.
Sources say: "Very bright lawyers whose work is of very high quality."
Philip Matthews is known as a "terrific lawyer" who "commands lots of respect." His practice encompasses high-value pollution matters, including asbestos coverage cases and complex class action suits.
Practice head Max Stern is praised for his pragmatic approach and ability to view issues from the client's perspective. He has recently handled large asbestos liability coverage claims of more than $2 billion for American Centennial relating to Thorpe Insulation's bankruptcy.
Experienced litigator Ray Wong is lauded by peers as "a gentleman and a scholar." He has recently been involved in insurance disputes on behalf of Canadian mining giant Teck Metals.
Andrew Gordon enjoys a healthy reputation for handling London market matters, including his recent representation of several UK insurers and subsequent work on behalf of CNA.
Richard Seabolt is regarded by market commentators as a "fine attorney" with broad insurance and general commercial litigation expertise.
New York
Esteemed practitioner Thomas Newman of Duane Morris LLP is an experienced attorney who practices in insurance and reinsurance law, in particular appearing in appellate matters. He is also known in the market for his work as an arbitrator.
Intellectual Property
Georgia
The Atlanta office of this full-service firm maintains a strong patent litigation practice, in addition to its strengths in trademark, copyright and brand protection work. The team recently represented Aeroflex in defending a trade secrets and breach of contract suit brought by BAE Systems, obtaining summary judgment. Other notable clients include Affinity Labs of Texas and Laser Dynamics.
Louis Norwood Jameson is chair of the IP practice group and managing partner of the Atlanta office. He is "a very good litigator," according to sources, and his practice covers trademark, patent, copyright, and false advertising disputes, among others. Recent work includes trials at both district and Federal Circuit level.
Matthew Gaudet is a well-known litigator, focusing on patent and technology disputes. He has trial experience in various district courts as well as before the US Court of Appeals.
Pennsylvania
This well-reputed firm has experience across a broad range of IP matters including patents, copyrights and trade secrets, with particular focus on patent and trademark prosecution cases. Its attorneys have backgrounds in a variety of areas including biosciences, chemicals and telecommunications, providing expertise across a range of industries.
The "bold, strong and experienced" Peter Cronk recently handled a trademark and unfair competition dispute for CertainTeed.
Labor & Employment
Florida
Duane Morris's Florida team is a trusted resource for national employers in the transport, healthcare and engineering sectors. Its successful representations before the NLRB and experience with union negotiations, FLSA and Florida Medical Leave Act matters earn it resounding client praise.
Sources say: "They had full dedication and very proactive, client-oriented service."
Michael Casey is "a fantastic lawyer" according to peers and "gets some very good results for clients." Clients enthuse that he is "fabulous," while others add that he "stands out" and is relentless in fighting their corner.
Georgia
Sources confirm that Joseph Ciucci of Duane Morris LLP "is a tremendously good litigator." They also highlight that he has a "great memory" and is "very methodical throughout the entire deposition process." He is noted for his expertise in connection to EEOC matters.
Pennsylvania
Attorneys at this nationally recognized firm cover the gamut of labor and employment legal-related issues, including union matters and all aspects of workplace litigation ranging from restrictive covenants to wrongful dismissal and wage and hour actions. This is complemented by a robust and all-encompassing employee benefits and executive compensation practice. The group represents a wide range of clients, including healthcare systems and software companies.
Sources say: "Really remarkable, immediately responsive and absolutely available to us. They provide great advice and really do focus on us and our needs when we need them."
Thomas Servodidio is active in all aspects of employment litigation, and also regularly represents clients in proceedings before the NLRB. Sources say: "He's terrific. He's smart, a great communicator and a great trial attorney."
"Remarkable and immediately responsive," Jonathan Segal recently worked with Princeton HealthCare System on developing employment policies and providing guidance on a range of labor and employment issues. Interviewees say: "He is highly pragmatic, pays attention to detail and is customer-oriented."
Litigation: General Commercial
New Jersey
Gregory Haworth of Duane Morris LLP has represented clients before a number of state and federal courts. He concentrates his practice on commercial litigation and bankruptcy matters.
Pennsylvania
This highly regarded firm has a broad litigation practice and a strong reputation across an array of industry sectors, from software development to real estate and pharmaceuticals. Recent highlights for the team include representing EMD Serono in connection with a collaboration agreement dispute with Pfizer.
Sources say: "They are focused, confident and aggressive advocates, but fair and professional. They recognize that time is money."
John Soroko has an extensive corporate and securities litigation practice. One source notes that "he's the consummate professional—an excellent litigator with great litigation sense and great client service."
Dana Klinges continues to provide securities counsel to clients like Cohen & Co Securities. One source states: "She has provided us with really important guidance for some difficult cases."
David Landau recently represented internet-based company AcademyOne in a complicated IP dispute with CollegeSource. Sources praise him as "a good litigator."
Matthew Taylor is chair of the trial practice group at Duane Morris and is described as "accessible and responsive" by interviewees. Recent cases include handling a contractual dispute for Lockheed Martin Transportation Security Solutions.
Real Estate
Maryland
Duane Morris LLP's Thomas Totten specializes in real estate development and finance, and is well versed in acquisitions, sales, leasing and financing. He is also known for expertise in construction and land use issues and maintains a fine track record for work on behalf of healthcare institutions.
Pennsylvania
This full-service firm has a significant real estate team with a focus on transactional work. Attorneys regularly assist investors, owners and real estate funds with the acquisition and sale of real estate. The team handles a wide variety of transactions including educational and medical projects and recently dealt with a number of condemnation matters.
Sources say: "They are very responsive, they get right back to you, they're efficient and they get things done."
Marc Brookman has recently been involved in a smart-growth multifamily project. Sources note that "he's got great expertise and knows real estate well."
David Augustin handles a range of real estate issues including financings, commercial acquisitions and real estate development. He is described as "bright and extraordinarily hard-working."
George Kroculick is praised as a "very competent real estate attorney." One client notes that "he's punctual, prompt, responsive and gets back to us within an hour regardless of the matter."