Chambers and Partners Honors Duane Morris Attorneys

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for A full-service law firm that is widely recognized for its representation of major banks and other financial services entities. Frequently engaged in an array of sophisticated matters, including mortgage lending and restructuring, and also noted for its strength in project finance, particularly in the renewable energy space. Additionally recognized for its strength in banking and finance disputes, bond offerings and loan sales. Has developed a niche advising on financial matters within the healthcare sector.

Strengths A market source highlights the team's ability to "consistently produce reliable quality work and favorable results."

Another adds that the team provides "real attention to detail and client focus."

Work highlights Represented Wells Fargo as lender in a $50 million loan to a company that manufactures piping systems.

Notable practitioners Dianne Meyer is particularly adept at dealing with sophisticated project financing transactions and maintains an impressive client roster that includes household-name lenders.

Delaware

Michael Lastowski is recommended for his extensive knowledge of Chapter 11 cases. He is also able to advise on the acquisition of assets. One client says: "He is a very practical, business-oriented lawyer and I would trust him with any national bankruptcy case."

Illinois

John Weiss continues to advise lenders on bankruptcy proceedings in the healthcare sphere, with a particular focus on nursing homes.

Massachusetts

Paul Moore is a "highly respected player in the Boston market," according to one source, while another describes him as "a very good negotiator and a great lawyer." He represents Chapter 11 trustees and debtors-in-possession, and has additional expertise in business reorganizations.

New Jersey

Walter Greenhalgh attracts market recognition for being a "smart, understanding and pragmatic problem solver." His expertise includes Chapter 11 proceedings.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Distinguished practice handling high-profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and major restructurings. Practitioners have considerable experience in cross-jurisdictional insolvency work and creditors' rights matters. Significant experience in defending former executives against claims stemming from bankruptcy.

Strengths "The team provides uniform quality of work and is responsive to our needs," one source notes, adding: "Their written work is excellent."

Work highlights Represented JPMorgan Chase as the largest creditor in a prepackaged bankruptcy case in Delaware.

Notable practitioners

James Holman "has a keen business sense and a strong legal mind," according to one client. His broad expertise includes the representation of trustees and financial institutions in high-value bankruptcy proceedings

Lawrence Kotler is a respected practitioner with demonstrable expertise acting for a range of parties involved in complex bankruptcy matters, including Chapter 7 and 11 proceedings. He is described as an "expert in his field and an excellent problem solver."

Rudolph Di Massa is considered a "very knowledgeable attorney" and demonstrates significant expertise acting on behalf of individuals and corporations involved in high-value bankruptcy proceedings

Wendy Simkulak is "always available, professional and always keeps her eye on the goal," according to one source. She is particularly noted for her work advising on the insurance aspects of complex bankruptcy matters.

Nationwide

What the team is known for Utilizes cannabis expertise on a nationwide basis and across a broad spectrum of practice areas, with practitioners specializing in IP, corporate transactions and regulatory advice within the sector. Offers expanded capabilities in the wake of the 2018 Farm Bill for clients trading in hemp and hemp-derived CBD products. Also boasts litigators able to handle contentious issues for producers and distributors across the industry.

Strengths "Outstanding is the first word I'd choose to describe their service," says one client, who notes that the team is "creative and always very informative in an industry changing on an almost daily basis."

Another client says: "The group is very polished, professional and experienced."

Work highlights Represented iAnthus Capital Holdings as US counsel in connection with its all-stock merger with MPX Bioceutical.

Notable practitioners Seth Goldberg boasts high-level experience advising cannabis businesses throughout their life-cycle. Clients say: "Seth is a great businessman - not only does he understand the law, but also the business realities of things, which makes him a great adviser from that perspective."

Nationwide

What the team is known for Prominent group working nationally and internationally on all aspects of construction law. Noted for its excellent record handling contentious claims in large-scale litigation, and for achieving settlements through alternative dispute resolution. Possesses substantial experience in a wide range of areas, including high-value project development, government contracts and public-private partnerships. Also highly regarded for its capabilities in sustainable design and engineering matters, mechanics' liens and property damage claims.

Work highlights Represented WDF in a $25 million claim against the City of New York for additional costs arising from a public construction project to install certain chemical dosing facilities at five wastewater treatment plants.

Notable practitioners Mark Canizio and Jessica Singh in New York and Patrick Kearney in Philadelphia are key contacts at the firm.

Illinois

Charles Lewis is considered an "incredibly smart and brilliant lawyer" and is widely recognized for his experience in construction disputes and mediation. Interviewees further praise his "grasp of legal and factual issues, and his ability to effectively communicate."

New York

What the team is known for Prominent construction practice with notable experience overseeing major developments and renovations in New York City. Well versed in all stages of project development and noted for counsel on front-end contract formation as well as dispute resolution. Deep reserves of knowledge with regard to public procurement and public-private partnership projects. Acts for an impressive client base including architects, engineers and contractors, as well as owners and construction managers.

Strengths A client reports: "It is consistently excellent on construction, contract and neighbor issues."

Clients say the team is "cohesive, supportive and has a fine understanding of dividing labor so that tasks are completed efficiently."

Further clients say: "As a team they are phenomenal, on the ball, thorough, practical, methodical."

Work highlights Represented prime contractor WDF in a $25 million claim against the City of New York for additional costs incurred for unanticipated differing site conditions, unavailability of access to the site and extended delay pertaining to the installation of dosing facilities at wastewater treatments plants located in New York City.

Notable practitioners

Allen Ross is described by clients as "extraordinarily practical, he's constantly pushing his clients to understand the big picture and doesn't allow strong emotional responses to alter the best legal tactics." He frequently acts as an arbitrator and mediator in construction disputes, drawing on his longstanding experience in the space

Frederick Cohen has a widely respected construction practice offering extensive experience in delay, defect and structural failure cases as well as construction contract negotiation for a range of commercial projects. He represents public and private owners, contractors and sureties.

Kenneth Lazaruk is "one of the most practical, efficient and competent attorneys we work with. He offers a unique understanding of construction that is rare to find as well as a practical approach to solving complicated, time-sensitive issues to protect client interests," reports a client. He is highlighted for his representation of owners and developers in transactional construction matters, particularly contract design and negotiation

Mark Canizio is a litigation specialist covering both construction and commercial law with a focus on complex, high-value disputes. He appears in court and a variety of alternative dispute resolution forums.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Distinguished firm in the construction space, well known for negotiating contracts and handling arbitration and litigation involving complex projects on a national and international scale. Offers experts in public and private contracts, OSHA compliance and turnkey contracts. Particularly excels in P3 projects and in bid protests and award disputes. Acts for a wide-ranging client base which includes educational institutions, architects and residential associations.

Work highlights Advised the Delaware Port Authority on a host of construction claims, including delay claims, in connection to the refurbishment of its PATCO railcars.

Notable practitioners

Joseph Battipaglia focuses his practice on construction law and handles disputes in connection to power projects and industrial processing facilities, among other projects. He frequently represents owners, designers and contractors.

Texas

Benton Wheatley has a wide-ranging construction practice covering delay, defective design and other construction disputes in litigation, arbitration or mediation. He also handles negotiations for clients engaged in a variety of projects.

Maryland

Michael Hardy is global cochair of the firm's private equity group and has particular experience advising funds and portfolio companies on joint ventures, M&A and corporate restructuring. One client reports: "He is excellent at negotiations and keeping focus on achieving our business goals."

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Respected operator in the Pennsylvania market with a varied corporate practice. Very active in M&A and securities work advising on joint ventures, corporate governance and other transactional issues. Regularly assists private equity funds and financial institutions with structuring private debt or equity investments.

Strengths Commentators highlight the team's "depth and breadth of knowledge."

Sources praise the lawyers' ability to "get results and robustly defend their clients' interests in a courteous manner."

Work highlights Represented J.P. Morgan and its co-lenders in a $285 million debt restructuring and equity transfer involving the Ocean Resort Casino, a casino hotel located in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Notable practitioners

Kathleen Shay is known for her work on commercial matters in the life sciences sector, with expertise including acquisitions and licensing. Clients report that she "provides invaluable advice throughout the entire process.

Richard Jaffe earns recognition for his work advising on corporate finance matters for private equity funds. He offers expertise in industries including energy and technology.

Clients consider Sandra Stoneman a "very knowledgeable lawyer who provides creative solutions." She acts for public companies and private equity firms in a range of commercial transactions.

Pennsylvania

John Nixon maintains an excellent reputation for his ability to handle an array of employment-related matters, including pension plans and executive employment arrangements. He is considered by sources to be "incredibly knowledgeable and incredibly practical."

Nationwide

Sheila Slocum Holliscontinues to play a key role providing high-level counsel to clients on a broad array of federal regulatory matters, drawing on her expertise as the first director of FERC's Office of Enforcement. Market commentators note: "She has seen the trends in the industry, the ups and downs, and brings her expertise and years of knowledge to problems. She is capable of working through a broad range of issues and digging into complex solutions."

New Jersey

What the team is known for Experienced environmental group with expertise in handling lawsuits involving site contamination by chemicals such as petroleum, chlorine and chromium. Represents companies from a myriad of industries. Adept at pursuing insurance coverage claims on behalf of clients following environmental damage, as well as providing counsel in regard to site remediation, regulatory compliance, and Superfund sites.

Strengths Sources say describe its attorneys as "professional and responsive subject matter experts."

Work highlights Represented Sunoco in a case alleging natural resource damages pertaining to contamination at a former Sunoco-owned gasoline station.

Notable practitioners

Lawrence Diamond has a diverse environmental practice that incorporates both contentious and noncontentious matters. He has experience conducting internal investigations and defending against enforcement proceedings

Lori Mills assists corporations with site remediation and investigations, as well as providing regulatory compliance advice. Sources note that she has "tremendous insights and great experience."

Pennsylvania

Seth Cooley is an experienced environmental lawyer who works on compliance, transactional and contentious environmental matters. A source describes him as a "subject matter expert."

Florida

What the team is known for Talented group providing a range of healthcare services across regulatory, administrative litigation and transactional issues. Skilled practitioners offer guidance to hospitals, physician groups and assisted living centers, among other clients. Other key areas of expertise include post-acute and long-term care, telemedicine and information technology.

Notable practitioners

Joanne Erde is highly regarded for her work in Medicare and Medicaid compliance, with especial competence in reimbursement. She is endorsed by market commentators as the "reimbursement guru."

Illinois

What the team is known for Expert healthcare practice with a substantial Illinois offering. Advises clients such as hospitals and physicians on disputes, regulatory compliance and transactions. Also noted for its niche telemedicine capabilities. Notable experience in the post-acute care and senior living space.

Strengths Sources say: "It understands the healthcare sector and makes resources available on changes in the sector - it's an excellent service."

One client says: "Its work is concise and its approach is thoughtful and operationally driven, which is important."

Notable practitioners

Neville Bilimoria acts for a range of healthcare providers, including skilled nursing facilities and physicians. Interviewees comment: "He has very good communication, and is good at building and maintaining relationships with his clients." He is particularly noted for his expertise in the physician practice space

Nicholas Lynn is "an excellent lawyer, who is responsive and can get the positive results I am looking for." His experience includes complex regulatory compliance matters, as well as handling contentious mandates. He regularly advises post-acute care sector clients and pharmaceuticals.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Longstanding healthcare practice noted for its highly respected bench of experienced transactional and regulatory compliance experts. Maintains a broad client base representative of its widespread industry coverage. Notable expertise in areas such as complex contractual arrangements, patient data sharing and reimbursement disputes. Displays strength in issues surrounding telemedicine and health information technology.

Work highlights Represented RA Pain in litigation accusing a number of physicians of healthcare fraud.

Notable practitioners

David Loder chairs the health law practice group and is a leading Pennsylvania practitioner. He represents hospital associations and health systems in a range of matters, including hospital governance, reimbursement issues and Medicaid. A commentator reports: "He is knowledgeable and hard-working," while another adds he "provides counsel that is actionable and understandable." 

Lisa Clark "is a leader in the privacy and cybersecurity area," a peer notes. She has excellent capacity to effectively handle healthcare regulatory matters, data breaches and cases under HIPAA. Sources comment: "She has unique expertise" and "understands the HIPAA landscape." 

Michael Mustokoff regularly represents healthcare providers in complex civil and criminal disputes, with notable experience handling False Claims Act litigation such as whistleblower fraud claims. His market peers indicate that "he is one of the best lawyers in his subspecialty in the state."

Nationwide

Denyse Sabagh is distinguished in the field due to her adept handling of a wide variety of immigration issues, including both inbound and outbound employment-based matters. Clients say: "She is always available to answer questions and she has a vast knowledge of immigration law."

California

What the team is known for Accomplished business immigration practice with experience in global visas and work and residence permit applications. Also handles compliance audits, for clients ranging from large multinational corporations to NGOs and individuals, as well as immigration-related litigation and government compliance matters. Sector-specific experience pertaining to a wide range of industries, including IT, biotechnology and telecom.

Notable practitioners

Angela Moore has a broad practice that includes advising clients on employment, family and asylum-based immigration issues. Her clients include Fortune 500 companies and individuals.

Lisa Spiegel is a foremost lawyer in the field handling the full spectrum of business immigration work. Sources say: "She is really ably to get into the mindset of the client and understand what they need, and find creative ways to deal with that under the parameter of immigration law."

District of Columbia

What the team is known for Prominent practice offering a diverse selection of immigration services including transactional support, immigrant and nonimmigrant visa assistance and global mobility strategies. Clients range from nonprofits and educational institutions to Fortune 500 companies, across such sectors as IT, biotechnology, security and entertainment. Also adeptly handles deportation litigation.

Strengths "Its lawyers are so knowledgeable about the trends, including what is happening on a legal and policy landscape. The knowledge they have is fantastic," says a client.

Interviewees say: "We are very pleased with the service, including its timeliness and ability to source the information that we need. It really does partner with us to solve a problem."

Notable practitioners

Denyse Sabagh maintains a leading immigration practice that sees her work on immigrant and nonimmigrant visa matters. Sources report she has "excellent legal knowledge and experience."

USA – Nationwide

What the team is known for Represents insurers in virtually all lines of coverage, with its robust disputes practice bolstered by key regulatory and reinsurance expertise. Also handles litigation and arbitrations of the highest complexity, as well as large environmental claims and commercial general liability cases. Offers clients expertise both at trial and on appeal. Additionally provides notable capability in relation to bankruptcy and market conduct matters as part of an all-encompassing insurance practice.

Strengths A source says: "They have a very broad and robust insurance and reinsurance practice, as well as transactional expertise."

Work highlights Represented First Insurance Company of Hawaii in bad faith and insurance coverage litigation with the Roman Catholic Church of Hawaii, the policyholder, in connection with a number of sexual abuse allegations leveled at the clergy.

Notable practitioners

Max Stern is regularly retained by insurance carriers to litigate an array of disputes, including those arising from pollution, professional liability, bad faith and breach of contract claims. He also serves as chair of the insurance team within the firm's trial practice group.

Philip Matthews offers a wealth of experience in coverage disputes and wins praise for his continuing successes in long-tail litigation. He is adept at handling a range of disputes, including those relating to asbestos and sexual abuse claims.

California

What the team is known for Well-regarded practice with a deep bench and a wide range of expertise that allows it to advise on almost all aspects of insurance law, from company formations through high-stakes litigation. Particularly adroit at handling large environmental claims and also possesses keen insight into the workings of London and European insurance markets. Frequently sought out by an enviable client roster featuring some of the largest players in the insurance space. Also offers specialist expertise in managing run-off exposures.

Work highlights Served as co-counsel to First Insurance Company of Hawaii in coverage and bad faith litigation in Hawaii related to dozens of sexual abuse claims filed against a policyholder concerning alleged abuse occurring between the 1950s and 1980s.

Notable practitioners

Andrew Gordon is a "very experienced, good lawyer," say sources. He is extremely well versed in coverage matters arising from environmental issues, in addition to property and data and privacy-related matters.

A "key player" in the market who does "fine work," Max Stern has a strong reputation for his insurance coverage and defense work on behalf of carriers. His expertise covers professional liability and workers' compensation, among other areas.

Philip Matthews boasts a wealth of expertise in litigating some of the most high-profile and complex long-tail insurance cases in the California market. Interviewees describe him as a "pleasure to work with." 

Ray Wong has an impressive insurance litigation practice that sees him advises on cases in California and the rest of the US. He is also an experienced mediator and arbitrator.

Texas

Alexander Gonzales has a "wealth of experience" in his field, according to interviewees. He is relied upon by a number of large corporate clients for insurance regulatory counsel and representation.

Georgia

What the team is known for Recognized for its experience acting for technology companies in contentious proceedings, including patent infringement disputes. Offers skilled representation in misuse of trade secrets cases. Also advises on portfolio management matters including licensing negotiations. Additional strength in matters pertaining to the entertainment, media, franchising and consumer products areas.

Strengths Commentators note: "The team works very well together and the skills of each attorney are complementary to the others."

Clients say its lawyers have "great strategic instincts."

Work highlights Defended Cisco Systems against a patent infringement complaint brought by Oyster Optics.

Notable practitioners

Louis Jameson continues to be a fine choice for patent litigation. He is experienced in handling cases concerning semiconductors and cybersecurity technology.

Matthew Gaudet's clients say he "is an excellent trial lawyer with a strong understanding of the law and an excellent courtroom presence." He cochairs the patent litigation team at the firm and works with a variety of technology companies on patent disputes.

Robin McGrath has recognized strength in patent counseling and litigation. She has further capabilities in trademark, trade secret and copyright issues.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for An experienced group with a breadth of highly effective practitioners capable of providing assistance on the full range of IP matters, including patents, trademarks, copyrights and licensing. Acts for an impressive raft of clients that includes market leaders in life sciences, consumer products, telecommunications and beverages. Represents both defendants and plaintiffs in IP litigation concerning patent and copyright infringement as well as trade secret and noncompete disputes.

Strengths A source praises the team for being "very economical and having a great understanding of complicated technology."

"It is an extraordinary firm made up of smart, capable people," a further interviewee comments.

Work highlights Represented Heidelberger Druckmaschinen in the defense of a patent infringement case relating to color management and measurement technology initiated by RAH Color Technologies.

Notable practitioners

Aleksander Goranin is described as "an extraordinarily smart person and an excellent writer and legal thinker" by one source, who adds: "He turns briefs into magic." He is particularly noted for his representation of major technology and software clients in complex IP litigation.

David Wolfsohn is a much-admired IP litigator with considerable expertise across an array of complex disputes, including high-value infringement trials. Interviewees describe him as a "very meticulous attorney and a terrific litigator." 

Nicole McLaughlin comes recommended for her work handling trademark disputes, procurement and global brand management. Interviewees highlight her "good understanding of the trademark landscape" and consider her to be "thoughtful and comprehensive." 

Peter Cronk is frequently called upon by leading life sciences and technology sector clients to advise on patent and trademark management and complex litigation.

Florida

Michael Casey is held in high regard by market sources, who describe him as "a dean of the Bar." He has extensive experience representing employers in labor and employment litigation and administrative proceedings, as well as assisting with advisory matters.

Kevin Vance undertakes complex employment litigation, including disputes involving restrictive covenants, trade secrets and discrimination. "He is practical, efficient and gets to the point," reports one source, while another describes him as "an excellent attorney, who is insightful and responsive."

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Offers comprehensive coverage across a range of employment and immigration matters. Draws from an experienced pool of litigators to act on wage and hour disputes and wider employment claims that cross state lines. Also noted for its strength in traditional labor law, including labor relations matters, union issues and regulatory compliance. Acts for a broad spectrum of public and private sector clients. 

Strengths Commentators say: "Everyone I work with at the firm in this area has excellent skills combined with practical advice." 

"It is a pleasure working with the firm; it has sharp people who know what they are talking about and provide excellent client service," notes a source. 

"The team is very strong and its lawyers are responsive and thorough," reports a client. 

Work highlights Advised Feld Entertainment on a DOL audit into the classification of concessions salespeople as independent contractors. 

Notable practitioners

Jonathan Segal is a "very engaging and an informative speaker" according to clients, who he counsels on HR and employment matters. A commentator reports: "He brings a combination of law, the application of law and the understanding of how a place of employment works." 

Sources praise Thomas Servodidio for being a "fine lawyer" who is "professional beyond belief, prepared and precise in litigation." He is called upon by a range of employers to represent them in discrimination claims, wrongful discharge and restrictive covenant disputes, among other lawsuits.

New Jersey

Gregory Haworth is described by interviewees as "a solid business litigator" who is "always on his game in cases." He is recognized for his representation of financial institutions in complex, commercial litigation. He also handles real estate disputes and class actions.

Eric Breslin "is fearless," reports a peer, adding: "He takes on big cases and fights for them." His wide-ranging practice spans civil and criminal litigation, including RICO cases. He also advises corporations on internal investigations.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Broad litigation team with extensive experience representing clients in class actions before state and federal courts. Renowned for its prowess in securities and white-collar crime cases and also noted for its strengths across IP, product liability and antitrust disputes. Also adept at advising on franchise litigation. Particularly recognized for its representation of clients in the life sciences, technology and financial sectors. 

Strengths A satisfied client states: "Everything about Duane Morris is excellent and they are always willing to find an expert to add to the team when necessary." 

Work highlights Advised StayWell on a suit brought by the former employer of a current StayWell employee for breach of contract and tortious interference. 

Notable practitioners

John Soroko is the firm's chairperson emeritus. He has a wealth of experience advising on securities litigation, among other areas.

Firm chairman and CEO Matthew Taylor is praised by a peer for being "a capable lawyer with a positive vision for the litigation practice." He is a highly skilled litigator and has experience in working on commercial disputes both at the federal and state level.

Michael Mustokoff advises on the defense of white-collar criminal cases and qui tam cases. A client notes that he is "hard-working and has good judgment at a high level." A peer says: "He is very talented at resolving client issues and using the law to a great effect on behalf of those clients."

Maryland

"Excellent lawyer" Thomas Totten focuses his practice on real estate development and financing transactions. He represents banks and other lenders as well as property developers and corporate clients on a range of complex matters.

Pennsylvania

David R. Augustin acts for both buyers and sellers in real estate transactions including mortgage loans, acquisitions and development projects. A source says he is "very adept in negotiating" and adds: "He is always prepared and he understands the issues."

Nationwide

Thomas Ostrander is described by one interviewee as "an expert in his field with great experience, compassion and understanding."His broad practice encompasses federal and state investigations and complex litigation with the IRS.

Florida

William Rohrer maintains a well-regarded practice as a "tremendous international tax practitioner," according to interviewees. He advises on both domestic and cross-border transactions and planning matters, advising clients such as corporates and real estate developers.

Illinois

Stanley Kaminski has a growing controversy practice that sees him described by sources as "extremely smart and dedicated." He undertakes complex challenges to both state and local tax, as well as handling audits.

Pennsylvania

What the team is known for Strong transactional tax practice that advises a range of domestic and international clients on structuring deals. Also noted for its handling of state and federal controversy work, which includes acting on criminal proceedings. Client base includes partnerships, limited liability companies and corporations.

Strengths A client describes the lawyers as "very experienced," adding: "They give legal and tax advice on a very high level and are very skilled in properly advising and managing client expectations." 

Another says: "They are exceptional lawyers - I am never disappointed with the quality of the firm and people. They are very thorough, knowledgeable and objective." 

A third interviewee reports: "We're very satisfied with the depth of service, it's been excellent." 

Work highlights Counseled Deerfield Management Company on its $540 million acquisition financing for the procurement of one office building and the redevelopment of another. 

Notable practitioners

Hope Krebs is a distinguished attorney who offers counsel on the tax elements of transactional matters such as acquisitions, joint ventures and private equity mandates. She is prized by one client for being an "excellent technical lawyer," and another says: "She was very clear, extremely helpful and gave advice on a high level while taking practical solutions into account." 

Thomas Ostrander is routinely called upon by individuals and corporations for representation in criminal matters such as tax evasion litigation and appeals. He also advises his clients on investigations undertaken by government authorities. He earns excellent praise from commentators for his "great judgment and instincts, attention to detail and responsiveness." A client says he is a "creative thinker and is very thorough." 

What the team is known for Firm offers an established India-focused practice, demonstrating a particular focus on mid-market IPOs, as well as QIP and bond offerings. Advises on listings and offerings across a range of sectors including the technology, pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries. 

Notable practitioners 

Jamie Benson is regularly called upon for his expertise advising on IPOs and QIPs. One client says: "His thorough diligence, knowledge of US law and sound knowledge of accounts are what makes Duane Morris & Selvam stand out from other comparable firms."