http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_ct.php Judged Law Firm en-us (C) 2006 Judged. All rights reserved. contact@judged.com(Judged) contact@judged.com Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:42:59 -0500 Law Firms http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_ct.php 60 http://www.judged.com/images/xml_rss_feed.gif http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_ct.php Address : 55 Griffin Road South, Phone : 860-286-2929, City : Bloomfield http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=362 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=362&page=1 Address : 158 Deer Hill Avenue, Phone : 203-792-2771, City : Danbury "Directors Carl E. Westman, Thad D. Kirkpatrick and Kelley Geraghty Price have been named Florida Super Lawyers in the annual Florida Super Lawyers - Central, North and Gulf Coast Edition. Florida Super Lawyers are identified by attorneys throughout the state who are invited, through a survey process, to nominate attorneys they have personally observed in action. Carl E. Westman concentrates his practice in the areas of estate planning, charitable planning and estate administration, including highly complicated estates. Thad D. Kirkpatrick practices in the areas of commercial real estate, real estate development law, and general business and real estate matters. Kelley Geraghty Price focuses her practice on employment litigation, estates and trust litigation, general civil and commercial litigation and dispute resolution." "Directors Carl E. Westman, Thad D. Kirkpatrick and Kelley Geraghty Price have been named Florida Super Lawyers in the annual Florida Super Lawyers - Central, North and Gulf Coast Edition. Florida Super Lawyers are identified by attorneys throughout the state who are invited, through a survey process, to nominate attorneys they have personally observed in action. Carl E. Westman concentrates his practice in the areas of estate planning, charitable planning and estate administration, including highly complicated estates. Thad D. Kirkpatrick practices in the areas of commercial real estate, real estate development law, and general business and real estate matters. Kelley Geraghty Price focuses her practice on employment litigation, estates and trust litigation, general civil and commercial litigation and dispute resolution." "Cohen & Grigsby, a business law firm with offices in Pittsburgh, PA; Bonita Springs, FL; and Naples, FL, is pleased to announce that 14 of its attorneys have been recognized by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers 2007. Compiled by Law & Politics through both peer review and independent research, Pennsylvania Super Lawyers 2007 is intended to highlight the top five percent of Pennsylvania attorneys in more than 60 practice areas. The following attorneys from Cohen & Grigsby are included in this year's list: Charles R. Brodbeck - Bonds/Government Finance James B. Brown - Employment Litigation: Defense Christopher B. Carson - Mergers & Acquisitions Charles C. Cohen - Securities & Corporate Finance V. Susanne Cook - International Law R. Michael Daniel - Estate Planning & Probate Christopher F. Farrell - Estate Planning & Probate William E. Kelleher, Jr. - Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights E. Donald Ladov - Employment & Labor Lawrence M. Lebowitz - Immigration Law Richard R. Nelson, II - Business Litigation Jonathan M. Schmerling - Estate Planning & Probate Jeffrey P. Ward - Personal Injury Plaintiff: General Thomas C. Wettach - Intellectual Property "Cohen & Grigsby's attorneys are recognized year after year by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for providing high-quality legal services to clients of all kinds in all areas of the law," noted Jack Elliott, Cohen & Grigsby president and chief executive officer. "As always, we are proud of this year's class of recipients."" "Cohen & Grigsby, a business law firm with offices in Pittsburgh, PA; Bonita Springs, FL; and Naples, FL, is pleased to announce that 14 of its attorneys have been recognized by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers 2007. Compiled by Law & Politics through both peer review and independent research, Pennsylvania Super Lawyers 2007 is intended to highlight the top five percent of Pennsylvania attorneys in more than 60 practice areas. The following attorneys from Cohen & Grigsby are included in this year's list: Charles R. Brodbeck - Bonds/Government Finance James B. Brown - Employment Litigation: Defense Christopher B. Carson - Mergers & Acquisitions Charles C. Cohen - Securities & Corporate Finance V. Susanne Cook - International Law R. Michael Daniel - Estate Planning & Probate Christopher F. Farrell - Estate Planning & Probate William E. Kelleher, Jr. - Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights E. Donald Ladov - Employment & Labor Lawrence M. Lebowitz - Immigration Law Richard R. Nelson, II - Business Litigation Jonathan M. Schmerling - Estate Planning & Probate Jeffrey P. Ward - Personal Injury Plaintiff: General Thomas C. Wettach - Intellectual Property "Cohen & Grigsby's attorneys are recognized year after year by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for providing high-quality legal services to clients of all kinds in all areas of the law," noted Jack Elliott, Cohen & Grigsby president and chief executive officer. "As always, we are proud of this year's class of recipients."" "Cohen & Grigsby, P.C. is pleased to announce the promotion of Morgan J. Hanson to the position of director in the Litigation Practice Group. "Morgan brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his elevated position within the firm," noted Andrew Roman, Head of Cohen & Grigsby's Litigation Practice Group. "He offers our clients sound legal counsel and we are pleased to recognize him for his accomplishments." Hanson concentrates his efforts on general and complex commercial litigation with a focus on insurance coverage, product liability, antitrust and torts. Prior to joining Cohen & Grigsby in 2002 as an associate in the Litigation Practice Group, he was an associate at Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi, based in Minneapolis, Minn. Hanson received his J.D. from the University of Iowa - College of Law in 1999 and his B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Iowa in 1996. He is a member of both the Pennsylvania and Minnesota Bar Associations and a member of the Order of Coif from the University of Iowa - College of Law. Hanson lives in Mt. Lebanon. " "Cohen & Grigsby, P.C. is pleased to announce the promotion of Morgan J. Hanson to the position of director in the Litigation Practice Group. "Morgan brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his elevated position within the firm," noted Andrew Roman, Head of Cohen & Grigsby's Litigation Practice Group. "He offers our clients sound legal counsel and we are pleased to recognize him for his accomplishments." Hanson concentrates his efforts on general and complex commercial litigation with a focus on insurance coverage, product liability, antitrust and torts. Prior to joining Cohen & Grigsby in 2002 as an associate in the Litigation Practice Group, he was an associate at Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi, based in Minneapolis, Minn. Hanson received his J.D. from the University of Iowa - College of Law in 1999 and his B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Iowa in 1996. He is a member of both the Pennsylvania and Minnesota Bar Associations and a member of the Order of Coif from the University of Iowa - College of Law. Hanson lives in Mt. Lebanon. " http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=465 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=465&page=6 Address : 1000 Lafayette BoulevardP.O. Box 1740, Phone : 203-333-9441, City : Bridgeport Attorney Jonathan D. Elliot, Zeldes, Needle & Cooper, P.C., Bridgeport, Connecticut, was recently appointed the 2007-2009 State Compliance Chair for Connecticut, by Members' Attorney Program Committee of ACA International, the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals (ACA). As a state compliance chair, Elliot will serve as a volunteer liaison between the national Members' Attorney Program and ACA members in the state, by taking calls and serving as a legal resource, speaking at state unit meetings and/or writing articles for unit publications. With more than 5,500 members in the U.S., Canada and 55 other countries throughout the world, ACA brings together third-party collection agencies, attorneys, creditors and vendor affiliates, establishes ethical standards, provides a wide variety of products, services and publications, and articulates the value of the industry to businesses, policymakers and consumers. The Members' Attorney Program is a division of ACA created to enable attorneys practicing in the credit and collection arena to better represent their clients through a number of resources designed to assist them in their practices, including up-to-the-minute information on legislative and case law developments. Through its state compliance chairs, the program provides ACA members with access to an attorney licensed to practice law in their state. Attorney Jonathan D. Elliot, Zeldes, Needle & Cooper, P.C., Bridgeport, Connecticut, was recently appointed the 2007-2009 State Compliance Chair for Connecticut, by Members' Attorney Program Committee of ACA International, the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals (ACA). As a state compliance chair, Elliot will serve as a volunteer liaison between the national Members' Attorney Program and ACA members in the state, by taking calls and serving as a legal resource, speaking at state unit meetings and/or writing articles for unit publications. With more than 5,500 members in the U.S., Canada and 55 other countries throughout the world, ACA brings together third-party collection agencies, attorneys, creditors and vendor affiliates, establishes ethical standards, provides a wide variety of products, services and publications, and articulates the value of the industry to businesses, policymakers and consumers. The Members' Attorney Program is a division of ACA created to enable attorneys practicing in the credit and collection arena to better represent their clients through a number of resources designed to assist them in their practices, including up-to-the-minute information on legislative and case law developments. Through its state compliance chairs, the program provides ACA members with access to an attorney licensed to practice law in their state. We are pleased to announce that attorneys Sarah W. Poston and Marcy Tench Stovall have been named Counsel to the Firm. Ms. Poston joined the Firm as an Associate in 1998. She will continue to focus on civil litigation in both Federal and State courts and administrative agencies with particular emphasis on employment and civil rights matters. Ms. Stovall joined the Firm as an Associate in 1993. She will continue to focus on civil litigation in both federal and state courts. Ms. Stovall concentrates her practice on the representation of professionals including representation of attorneys in disciplinary and malpractice matters We are pleased to announce that attorneys Sarah W. Poston and Marcy Tench Stovall have been named Counsel to the Firm. Ms. Poston joined the Firm as an Associate in 1998. She will continue to focus on civil litigation in both Federal and State courts and administrative agencies with particular emphasis on employment and civil rights matters. Ms. Stovall joined the Firm as an Associate in 1993. She will continue to focus on civil litigation in both federal and state courts. Ms. Stovall concentrates her practice on the representation of professionals including representation of attorneys in disciplinary and malpractice matters Jonathan D. Elliot of Monroe has joined the law firm of Zeldes, Needle & Cooper as Counsel. Mr. Elliot, whose practice is focused on commercial litigation and domestic relations, is a 1980 graduate of University of Michigan, School of Law. Prior to joining Zeldes, Needle & Cooper Mr. Elliot practiced law for eighteen years at Kleban and Samor in Southport and before that at Levett, Rockwood and at Cummings & Lockwood. Mr. Elliot graduated from Yale University in New Haven where he earned his BA in 1977. He is a member of the Greater Bridgeport, Connecticut and American Bar Associations and the American Collectors Association. Mr. Elliot is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in the State of Connecticut. Mr. Elliot resides in Monroe, CT with his wife, Cheryl and their two children. Jonathan D. Elliot of Monroe has joined the law firm of Zeldes, Needle & Cooper as Counsel. Mr. Elliot, whose practice is focused on commercial litigation and domestic relations, is a 1980 graduate of University of Michigan, School of Law. Prior to joining Zeldes, Needle & Cooper Mr. Elliot practiced law for eighteen years at Kleban and Samor in Southport and before that at Levett, Rockwood and at Cummings & Lockwood. Mr. Elliot graduated from Yale University in New Haven where he earned his BA in 1977. He is a member of the Greater Bridgeport, Connecticut and American Bar Associations and the American Collectors Association. Mr. Elliot is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in the State of Connecticut. Mr. Elliot resides in Monroe, CT with his wife, Cheryl and their two children. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2622 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2622&page=3 Address : 1115 Broad Street, Phone : 203-367-5535, City : Bridgeport http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1083 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1083&page=4 Address : 1 Moss Avenue, Phone : 203-792-7100, City : Danbury Atty. William Bloss is interviewed on WFSB (CBS-Hartford) to explain the legal process in the impending trial of two men accused of murdering members of a family in Cheshire, Conn. Atty. William Bloss is interviewed on WFSB (CBS-Hartford) to explain the legal process in the impending trial of two men accused of murdering members of a family in Cheshire, Conn. Atty. Richard Bieder was interviewed on national and regional television about his representation of victims of the collapse of Connecticut's Mianus River Bridge. Atty. Richard Bieder was interviewed on national and regional television about his representation of victims of the collapse of Connecticut's Mianus River Bridge. The Danbury Bar Association has cited Atty. James Wu, of counsel at Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder, for his exceptional pro bono service in the community. Wu was given the association's annual Pro Bono Award as a result of his providing several hundred hours of free service over more than two years by assisting clients of a deceased lawyer. The plaque that cites Wu reads, "In recognition of your efforts to provide equal access to justice." Wu, a resident of Litchfield, Connecticut, manages the KK&B Danbury office. He concentrates his practice on personal injury resulting from automobile and motorcycle crashes, property hazards, dog attacks and falls. Wu is known for his effective courtroom advocacy as well as his negotiating skills. He is a former partner at the Waterbury firm of Carmody & Torrance. The Danbury Bar Association has cited Atty. James Wu, of counsel at Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder, for his exceptional pro bono service in the community. Wu was given the association's annual Pro Bono Award as a result of his providing several hundred hours of free service over more than two years by assisting clients of a deceased lawyer. The plaque that cites Wu reads, "In recognition of your efforts to provide equal access to justice." Wu, a resident of Litchfield, Connecticut, manages the KK&B Danbury office. He concentrates his practice on personal injury resulting from automobile and motorcycle crashes, property hazards, dog attacks and falls. Wu is known for his effective courtroom advocacy as well as his negotiating skills. He is a former partner at the Waterbury firm of Carmody & Torrance. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1318 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1318&page=8 Address : 9 Old Sugar Hollow Road, Phone : 203-796-7580, City : Danbury http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1997 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1997&page=7 Address : 280 Trumbull Street, Phone : 860-548-1300, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1783 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1783&page=25 Address : 23 Old Kings Highway South, Phone : 203-921-1913, City : Darien For the third consecutive year, Chambers USA 2007 has ranked Freehill Hogan & Mahar in the top tier of New York maritime law firms, where FHM is joined by only one other firm. In addition to again ranking the firm No. 1, Chambers has singled out thirty-two New York shipping attorneys as "Leaders in the Field" and seven are FHM partners: Peter Gutowski, Bill Juska, Wayne Meehan, Don Murnane, Michael Fernandez, Tom Russo and Gina Venezia. For the third consecutive year, Chambers USA 2007 has ranked Freehill Hogan & Mahar in the top tier of New York maritime law firms, where FHM is joined by only one other firm. In addition to again ranking the firm No. 1, Chambers has singled out thirty-two New York shipping attorneys as "Leaders in the Field" and seven are FHM partners: Peter Gutowski, Bill Juska, Wayne Meehan, Don Murnane, Michael Fernandez, Tom Russo and Gina Venezia. We are pleased to announce that FHM partners George Freehill and Eric Lenck have both been selected as 2006 Super Lawyers in New York by Law and Politics Magazine. The selection process begins with ballots sent to more than 59,000 active attorneys in Manhattan who are asked to nominate the best attorneys "they have personally observed in action." Following the initial balloting, a "blue ribbon" panel for each of 60 practice areas reviews the nominated attorneys and their scores. The resulting list of Super Lawyers represents the top 5% of the attorneys in the city. The New York Super Lawyers for 2006 were announced on July 18 in a special supplement in the New York Times. We are pleased to announce that FHM partners George Freehill and Eric Lenck have both been selected as 2006 Super Lawyers in New York by Law and Politics Magazine. The selection process begins with ballots sent to more than 59,000 active attorneys in Manhattan who are asked to nominate the best attorneys "they have personally observed in action." Following the initial balloting, a "blue ribbon" panel for each of 60 practice areas reviews the nominated attorneys and their scores. The resulting list of Super Lawyers represents the top 5% of the attorneys in the city. The New York Super Lawyers for 2006 were announced on July 18 in a special supplement in the New York Times. For the second year in a row, Chambers USA has ranked Freehill Hogan & Mahar in the top tier of New York maritime law firms. In addition to again ranking the firm No. 1, Chambers USA 2006 singled out partners Peter Gutowski, Wayne Meehan, Don Murnane, Mike Fernandez and Bill Juska as leaders in the field of shipping law. Earlier this year, the Chambers Global 2006 directory ranked Freehill Hogan & Mahar in the top tier of shipping law firms in the United States. Chambers & Partners has been publishing rankings of U.K. attorneys since 1990, and began publishing Chambers Global in 1999, followed by Chambers USA in 2003. The Chambers rankings are the product of independent research carried out by Chambers\' researchers throughout the year, including numerous interviews with clients and other law firms. For the second year in a row, Chambers USA has ranked Freehill Hogan & Mahar in the top tier of New York maritime law firms. In addition to again ranking the firm No. 1, Chambers USA 2006 singled out partners Peter Gutowski, Wayne Meehan, Don Murnane, Mike Fernandez and Bill Juska as leaders in the field of shipping law. Earlier this year, the Chambers Global 2006 directory ranked Freehill Hogan & Mahar in the top tier of shipping law firms in the United States. Chambers & Partners has been publishing rankings of U.K. attorneys since 1990, and began publishing Chambers Global in 1999, followed by Chambers USA in 2003. The Chambers rankings are the product of independent research carried out by Chambers\' researchers throughout the year, including numerous interviews with clients and other law firms. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=810 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=810&page=10 Address : 30 Old Kings Highway SouthP.O. Box 1107, Phone : 203-899-3300, City : Darien AMY S. ZABETAKIS, an associate, joined the firm in November of 2005. Ms. Zabetakis focuses her practice on real estate, zoning and land use, business law, and litigation. Ms. Zabetakis earned her bachelor's degree from Wellesley College. She received her Juris Doctor and her M.B.A. from Georgetown University where she was an Articles Editor for the Georgetown Immigration Law Journal. Ms. Zabetakis was admitted to the Bar of New York State in 2000 and the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and Eastern District of New York in 2000. AMY S. ZABETAKIS, an associate, joined the firm in November of 2005. Ms. Zabetakis focuses her practice on real estate, zoning and land use, business law, and litigation. Ms. Zabetakis earned her bachelor's degree from Wellesley College. She received her Juris Doctor and her M.B.A. from Georgetown University where she was an Articles Editor for the Georgetown Immigration Law Journal. Ms. Zabetakis was admitted to the Bar of New York State in 2000 and the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and Eastern District of New York in 2000. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2067 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2067&page=11 Address : 30 Center Street, Phone : 203-655-6046, City : Darien http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=575 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=575&page=12 Address : 883 Black Rock Turnpike, Phone : 203-610-6393, City : Fairfield http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2423 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2423&page=13 Address : 74 Batterson Park Road, Phone : 860-676-3000, City : Farmington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1419 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1419&page=14 Address : 160 Farmington Avenue, Phone : 860-677-2868, City : Farmington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1977 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1977&page=15 Address : 100 Field Point Road, Phone : 203-869-3800, City : Greenwich http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2515 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2515&page=16 Address : 35 Mason Street, Phone : 212-223-0400, City : Greenwich Tracee E. Davis, a senior associate at Zeichner Ellman & Krause LLP, appeared on two legal panels recently. She was a panelist on the program "How to Become a Judge" sponsored by the Association of the Bar of the City of New York to inform lawyers about the paths, both elective and appointive, to becoming a judge in New York City. Tracee discussed the merit-based screening and selection process for reviewing applications and identifying qualified candidates. She also moderated a panel for commercial judges on abusive discovery practices as part of the annual seminar program for commercial division judges organized by the Commercial and Federal Litigation Section of the New York State Bar Association. Tracee, who is Secretary of the Section, was the program co-chair. Prior to joining ZEK, Tracee served for five years as the Principal Court Attorney to Justice Charles E. Ramos of the New York State Supreme Court Commercial Division in Manhattan. She was also an Adjunct Professor of Law at New York Law School. Tracee E. Davis, a senior associate at Zeichner Ellman & Krause LLP, appeared on two legal panels recently. She was a panelist on the program "How to Become a Judge" sponsored by the Association of the Bar of the City of New York to inform lawyers about the paths, both elective and appointive, to becoming a judge in New York City. Tracee discussed the merit-based screening and selection process for reviewing applications and identifying qualified candidates. She also moderated a panel for commercial judges on abusive discovery practices as part of the annual seminar program for commercial division judges organized by the Commercial and Federal Litigation Section of the New York State Bar Association. Tracee, who is Secretary of the Section, was the program co-chair. Prior to joining ZEK, Tracee served for five years as the Principal Court Attorney to Justice Charles E. Ramos of the New York State Supreme Court Commercial Division in Manhattan. She was also an Adjunct Professor of Law at New York Law School. David B, Chenkin, a ZEK partner, appeared on a panel on "Working with Outside Counsel/Auditors or Other Consultants on AML Troubles" at a conference in Washington, DC, sponsored jointly by the American Bar Association and the American Bankers Association. The session concentrated on when an institution should take action and hire outside counsel, the selection process, Congressional involvement and the efficacy of third-party review of preventive activities. Chenkin is an expert on anti-money laundering and Bank Secrecy Act compliance issues and is involved with regulatory efforts on several governmental levels. David B, Chenkin, a ZEK partner, appeared on a panel on "Working with Outside Counsel/Auditors or Other Consultants on AML Troubles" at a conference in Washington, DC, sponsored jointly by the American Bar Association and the American Bankers Association. The session concentrated on when an institution should take action and hire outside counsel, the selection process, Congressional involvement and the efficacy of third-party review of preventive activities. Chenkin is an expert on anti-money laundering and Bank Secrecy Act compliance issues and is involved with regulatory efforts on several governmental levels. ZEK Partner, Yoav M. Griver, and Of Counsel, Anthony I Giacobbe, Jr., are Adjunct Professors at New York University. Together, they are teaching Sports Law. The course is part of the Sports Studies core curriculum at NYU's Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management. ZEK Partner, Yoav M. Griver, and Of Counsel, Anthony I Giacobbe, Jr., are Adjunct Professors at New York University. Together, they are teaching Sports Law. The course is part of the Sports Studies core curriculum at NYU's Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2621 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2621&page=17 Address : 170 Mason Street, Phone : 203-661-6000, City : Greenwich http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1159 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1159&page=18 Address : 66 Field Point Road, Phone : 203-661-5222, City : Greenwich Bleakley Platt & Schmidt welcomes Joseph DeGiuseppe, Jr. and Craig D. Solar to the Firm's White Plains office. Mr. DeGiuseppe joins the Firm as Partner and will Chair the Labor and Employment and Immigration Practice Groups. He has almost 30 years experience in representing and advising Fortune 500 companies and other corporate clients in all areas of labor, employment and immigration law including 14 years' of experience at Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, and more than 6 years' of experience at Jackson Lewis LLP. Mr. Solar joins the Firm as Counsel and will be a member of the Trusts & Estates Practice Group. Mr. Solar was an associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges, LLP where he specialized in estate and tax planning for high net-worth clients. Mr. Solar received his L.L.M. in Taxation from New York University School of Law. Bleakley Platt & Schmidt welcomes Joseph DeGiuseppe, Jr. and Craig D. Solar to the Firm's White Plains office. Mr. DeGiuseppe joins the Firm as Partner and will Chair the Labor and Employment and Immigration Practice Groups. He has almost 30 years experience in representing and advising Fortune 500 companies and other corporate clients in all areas of labor, employment and immigration law including 14 years' of experience at Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, and more than 6 years' of experience at Jackson Lewis LLP. Mr. Solar joins the Firm as Counsel and will be a member of the Trusts & Estates Practice Group. Mr. Solar was an associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges, LLP where he specialized in estate and tax planning for high net-worth clients. Mr. Solar received his L.L.M. in Taxation from New York University School of Law. On July 12, 2006, James Glatthaar, litigation partner in Bleakley Platt & Schmidt's White Plains office, will discuss "Housing Discrimination Issues in New York," at a seminar, sponsored by Lorman Education Services. Mr. Glatthaar will also serve on the faculty with guest speakers from the Westchester County Board of Realtors and the New York State Division of Human Rights. Discussions will include county, state and federal definitions of impermissible discrimination; the role of advocacy and public interest groups in discrimination claims; and practical advice directed at, among others, property managers, real estate agents and brokers, and housing coordinators. Important judicial and legislative changes have made this topic more timely than ever. The seminar will be held at the Crowne Plaza in White Plains from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This course has been approved for continuing education credit for attorneys and CPA's. On July 12, 2006, James Glatthaar, litigation partner in Bleakley Platt & Schmidt's White Plains office, will discuss "Housing Discrimination Issues in New York," at a seminar, sponsored by Lorman Education Services. Mr. Glatthaar will also serve on the faculty with guest speakers from the Westchester County Board of Realtors and the New York State Division of Human Rights. Discussions will include county, state and federal definitions of impermissible discrimination; the role of advocacy and public interest groups in discrimination claims; and practical advice directed at, among others, property managers, real estate agents and brokers, and housing coordinators. Important judicial and legislative changes have made this topic more timely than ever. The seminar will be held at the Crowne Plaza in White Plains from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This course has been approved for continuing education credit for attorneys and CPA's. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=207 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=207&page=19 Address : 90 State House Square, Phone : 860-424-4300, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1939 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1939&page=20 Address : 65 Wethersfield Avenue, Phone : 860-249-1361, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1129 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1129&page=21 Address : 225 Asylum Street13th Floor, Phone : 860-293-3500, City : Hartford The international law firm of LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae LLP has announced the expansion of its Asia practice with the opening of a Hong Kong office. The office is co-managed by partners William C. Marcoux and Daniel Liew. The new office will operate in affiliation with Arthur Marriott & Associates, a Hong Kong law firm. A team of twenty lawyers will be in place by the end of 2007 practicing US, English, and Hong Kong laws and will focus on energy, insurance, corporate and finance, and dispute resolution matters. "The explosive growth and economic globalization in the Pan-Asian market makes this the perfect time for LeBoeuf Lamb to continue expanding its footprint," said firm Chairman Steven H. Davis, "Daniel's leadership and market knowledge will be great assets as we expand on the success of our first office in Asia located in Beijing." Prior to joining LeBoeuf Lamb as a managing partner, Mr. Liew was head of the energy and infrastructure practice in Asia for an international law firm and an elected member of the partnership board of such firm. He represents clients in the energy, electricity, utilities, water, telecommunications, infrastructure, and insurance sectors, and regularly advises on mergers and acquisitions, project development, project finance and corporate finance. Commenting on his move, Mr. Liew said, "LeBoeuf Lamb's culture of global integration together with its worldwide coverage presents significant opportunities to provide clients with seamless, multi-jurisdictional counsel. I look forward to contributing to the firm's continued success and providing legal counsel in Asia to our clients." The international law firm of LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae LLP has announced the expansion of its Asia practice with the opening of a Hong Kong office. The office is co-managed by partners William C. Marcoux and Daniel Liew. The new office will operate in affiliation with Arthur Marriott & Associates, a Hong Kong law firm. A team of twenty lawyers will be in place by the end of 2007 practicing US, English, and Hong Kong laws and will focus on energy, insurance, corporate and finance, and dispute resolution matters. "The explosive growth and economic globalization in the Pan-Asian market makes this the perfect time for LeBoeuf Lamb to continue expanding its footprint," said firm Chairman Steven H. Davis, "Daniel's leadership and market knowledge will be great assets as we expand on the success of our first office in Asia located in Beijing." Prior to joining LeBoeuf Lamb as a managing partner, Mr. Liew was head of the energy and infrastructure practice in Asia for an international law firm and an elected member of the partnership board of such firm. He represents clients in the energy, electricity, utilities, water, telecommunications, infrastructure, and insurance sectors, and regularly advises on mergers and acquisitions, project development, project finance and corporate finance. Commenting on his move, Mr. Liew said, "LeBoeuf Lamb's culture of global integration together with its worldwide coverage presents significant opportunities to provide clients with seamless, multi-jurisdictional counsel. I look forward to contributing to the firm's continued success and providing legal counsel in Asia to our clients." LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae LLP announced yesterday a landmark settlement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that greatly improves conditions for immigrant children and their families inside the T. Don Hutto detention center in Taylor, Texas. Dozens of children were released from the facility with their families as a result of the litigation. The settlement is expected to be approved shortly by Judge Sam Sparks of the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas. "This is a huge victory not only for the children and families that have been released from Hutto, but for every detainee held at the facility, now or in the future," said Sean R.D. Gorman, a partner in LeBoeuf Lamb's Houston office. "Since the filing of these lawsuits conditions have drastically improved in areas like education, recreation, medical care, and privacy." The settlement is the result of extensive litigation and mediation in consolidated lawsuits filed earlier this year against Michael Chertoff, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and six officials from ICE on behalf of 26 immigrant children. The children are between the ages of 1 and 17, and were detained at Hutto with their parents who, in almost all cases, were awaiting determinations on their asylum claims. LeBoeuf Lamb, the ACLU, the ACLU of Texas, and the University of Texas School of Law Immigration Clinic brought the lawsuits. Since the original lawsuits were filed in March 2007, all of the 26 children represented by LeBoeuf Lamb and co-counsel have been released. The final six children were released days before the settlement was finalized, and are now living with family members who are U.S. citizens and/or legal permanent residents while pursuing their asylum claims. For the children, the release day was very emotional. Andrea Restrepo, a 12-year-old child from Colombia, had been held in Hutto in a small cell for nearly a year with her mother and 9-year-old sister. "I feel much better, I feel tranquil, I can do things now I couldn't do there," said Restrepo. "I am trying to forget everything about Hutto. I feel free. It was a nightmare." Conditions at Hutto have gradually and significantly improved as a result of the groundbreaking litigation. Children are no longer required to wear prison uniforms and are allowed much more time outdoors. Educational programming has expanded and guards have been instructed not to discipline children by threatening to separate them from their parents. "The litigation has achieved enormous results," said Stephen J. Lable, an associate in LeBoeuf Lamb's Boston office. "Instead of punishing asylum seekers by treating them like criminals, the settlement requires ICE to treat children more like children - with the care and compassion that exemplify American values." Soon after the litigation commenced, ICE instituted a policy of detaining at Hutto only families placed in expedited removal proceedings and began to issue bonds for asylum seekers who passed their credible fear interviews. "Imprisoning families who have fled their home countries under fear of persecution from their own governments, and detaining them in jail-like conditions, was an indescribable trauma for many of the children we represented," said Carol A. Lafond, an associate in LeBoeuf Lamb's New York office. "We are hopeful that by limiting the population at Hutto to families in expedited removal except in exigent circumstances, and adopting more meaningful release procedures, that the length of stay for children will be significantly reduced." Additional improvements ICE will be required to make as a result of the settlement include allowing children over the age of 12 to move freely about the facility; providing a full-time, on-site pediatrician; eliminating the count system so that families are not forced to stay in their cells 12 hours a day; installing privacy curtains around toilets; offering field trip opportunities to children; supplying more toys and age-and language-appropriate books; and improving the nutritional value of food. ICE must also allow regular legal orientation presentations by local immigrants' rights organizations; allow family and friends to visit Hutto detainees seven days a week; and allow children to keep paper and pens in their rooms. ICE's compliance with each of these reforms, as well as other conditions reforms, will be subject to external oversight to ensure their permanence. Despite the tremendous improvements at Hutto, the facility remains a former medium security prison managed by the Corrections Corporation of America, a for-profit adult corrections company. In recent years, Congress has repeatedly directed DHS to keep immigrant families together, either by releasing them or using alternatives to detention. Where detention is necessary, Congress has said immigrant families should be housed in non-penal, homelike environments. "We are thrilled at what we were able to accomplish through litigation and mediation," said Lisa Graybill, Legal Director of the ACLU of Texas. "But the fact remains that our government should not be locking up innocent children - period. That is not what America is about. It is time for Congress to intervene and end the policy of family detention." LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae LLP announced yesterday a landmark settlement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that greatly improves conditions for immigrant children and their families inside the T. Don Hutto detention center in Taylor, Texas. Dozens of children were released from the facility with their families as a result of the litigation. The settlement is expected to be approved shortly by Judge Sam Sparks of the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas. "This is a huge victory not only for the children and families that have been released from Hutto, but for every detainee held at the facility, now or in the future," said Sean R.D. Gorman, a partner in LeBoeuf Lamb's Houston office. "Since the filing of these lawsuits conditions have drastically improved in areas like education, recreation, medical care, and privacy." The settlement is the result of extensive litigation and mediation in consolidated lawsuits filed earlier this year against Michael Chertoff, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and six officials from ICE on behalf of 26 immigrant children. The children are between the ages of 1 and 17, and were detained at Hutto with their parents who, in almost all cases, were awaiting determinations on their asylum claims. LeBoeuf Lamb, the ACLU, the ACLU of Texas, and the University of Texas School of Law Immigration Clinic brought the lawsuits. Since the original lawsuits were filed in March 2007, all of the 26 children represented by LeBoeuf Lamb and co-counsel have been released. The final six children were released days before the settlement was finalized, and are now living with family members who are U.S. citizens and/or legal permanent residents while pursuing their asylum claims. For the children, the release day was very emotional. Andrea Restrepo, a 12-year-old child from Colombia, had been held in Hutto in a small cell for nearly a year with her mother and 9-year-old sister. "I feel much better, I feel tranquil, I can do things now I couldn't do there," said Restrepo. "I am trying to forget everything about Hutto. I feel free. It was a nightmare." Conditions at Hutto have gradually and significantly improved as a result of the groundbreaking litigation. Children are no longer required to wear prison uniforms and are allowed much more time outdoors. Educational programming has expanded and guards have been instructed not to discipline children by threatening to separate them from their parents. "The litigation has achieved enormous results," said Stephen J. Lable, an associate in LeBoeuf Lamb's Boston office. "Instead of punishing asylum seekers by treating them like criminals, the settlement requires ICE to treat children more like children - with the care and compassion that exemplify American values." Soon after the litigation commenced, ICE instituted a policy of detaining at Hutto only families placed in expedited removal proceedings and began to issue bonds for asylum seekers who passed their credible fear interviews. "Imprisoning families who have fled their home countries under fear of persecution from their own governments, and detaining them in jail-like conditions, was an indescribable trauma for many of the children we represented," said Carol A. Lafond, an associate in LeBoeuf Lamb's New York office. "We are hopeful that by limiting the population at Hutto to families in expedited removal except in exigent circumstances, and adopting more meaningful release procedures, that the length of stay for children will be significantly reduced." Additional improvements ICE will be required to make as a result of the settlement include allowing children over the age of 12 to move freely about the facility; providing a full-time, on-site pediatrician; eliminating the count system so that families are not forced to stay in their cells 12 hours a day; installing privacy curtains around toilets; offering field trip opportunities to children; supplying more toys and age-and language-appropriate books; and improving the nutritional value of food. ICE must also allow regular legal orientation presentations by local immigrants' rights organizations; allow family and friends to visit Hutto detainees seven days a week; and allow children to keep paper and pens in their rooms. ICE's compliance with each of these reforms, as well as other conditions reforms, will be subject to external oversight to ensure their permanence. Despite the tremendous improvements at Hutto, the facility remains a former medium security prison managed by the Corrections Corporation of America, a for-profit adult corrections company. In recent years, Congress has repeatedly directed DHS to keep immigrant families together, either by releasing them or using alternatives to detention. Where detention is necessary, Congress has said immigrant families should be housed in non-penal, homelike environments. "We are thrilled at what we were able to accomplish through litigation and mediation," said Lisa Graybill, Legal Director of the ACLU of Texas. "But the fact remains that our government should not be locking up innocent children - period. That is not what America is about. It is time for Congress to intervene and end the policy of family detention." Dewey Ballantine LLP ("Dewey Ballantine") and LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae LLP ("LeBoeuf Lamb"), two leading international law firms, today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to merge, subject to partner approval. The combination will create a premier New York law firm with extensive global reach, bringing together some of the most prominent practices and industry leaders, with more than 1,300 attorneys in 12 countries and revenues approaching $1 billion. The combined firm, which will be known as Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ("Dewey & LeBoeuf"), will be an established powerhouse in New York, Washington, D.C., and London, the most important cities for transaction deal flow. Dewey & LeBoeuf will cover 12 countries, ranking 13th globally and third among U.S. firms in terms of number of countries covered, as per ALM Global 100 2006. It will rank as the fifth largest firm in New York City with approximately 550 lawyers and the fifth largest U.S.-headquartered firm in London with approximately 170 lawyers. Dewey & LeBoeuf also will have a presence in nearly every key international financial and commercial center and will rank as the 14th largest firm by headcount and the 16th largest firm by revenue in the United States. Steven H. Davis will lead the combined firm as Chairman, with equal representation from Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb on its Executive Committee. The Dewey & LeBoeuf merger will result in a broader and deeper client offering with complementary practice areas and industry focus, providing an excellent fit. In the instances where both firms' practice areas are similar, the combination makes those areas deeper and stronger. For example, the combined firm will be characterized by market-leading practice groups such as mergers and acquisitions, complex litigation, intellectual property litigation, government investigations, international trade, capital markets, structured finance, private equity, antitrust, and tax. The combined firm will possess leading industry experience in sectors including banking, energy, utilities, insurance, sports and entertainment, life sciences and healthcare, and telecommunications. "This strategic combination will create a premier New York law firm with extensive global reach," said LeBoeuf Lamb's Chairman, Steven H. Davis. "The quality, scale and scope we will offer as a combined firm will enable us to continue attracting the most prominent clients and to address complex and challenging legal issues our clients face on a national and global basis. Combining our strengths and collective resources into one organization advances LeBoeuf Lamb's goal to broaden and deepen our practice offerings and global presence, add highly skilled and dynamic lawyers and continue to focus on increasing profitability." "Dewey Ballantine has been focused on growth for some time, and this combination with LeBoeuf Lamb is an especially good fit. LeBoeuf Lamb brings a practice and industry focus that complements and enhances our areas of practice to create a powerful array of offerings for clients," said Morton Pierce, Co-chair of Dewey Ballantine. "Clients will benefit from significant additional resources from a firm with a presence in nearly every key international financial and commercial center, and we believe this combination is to the advantage of everyone at the firm and our clients worldwide." Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb, which are both headquartered in New York City, share a similar heritage and evolution, which is underscored by the firms・ compatible cultures, values, and visions. Both firms have comparable operational and governance structures that will facilitate a smooth integration. Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb・s financial metrics are also similar. Moreover, both firms share a strong commitment to the priorities highlighted in The American Lawyer's elite "AList," including associate satisfaction, diversity, and the provision of pro bono legal services. The merger of Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb creates a catalyst for increased growth and profitability. The combined firm will be favorably positioned to capitalize on its existing international presence for even greater global success. Dewey & LeBoeuf will build on the momentum of both firms・ recent achievements: Dewey Ballantine LLP ("Dewey Ballantine") and LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae LLP ("LeBoeuf Lamb"), two leading international law firms, today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to merge, subject to partner approval. The combination will create a premier New York law firm with extensive global reach, bringing together some of the most prominent practices and industry leaders, with more than 1,300 attorneys in 12 countries and revenues approaching $1 billion. The combined firm, which will be known as Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ("Dewey & LeBoeuf"), will be an established powerhouse in New York, Washington, D.C., and London, the most important cities for transaction deal flow. Dewey & LeBoeuf will cover 12 countries, ranking 13th globally and third among U.S. firms in terms of number of countries covered, as per ALM Global 100 2006. It will rank as the fifth largest firm in New York City with approximately 550 lawyers and the fifth largest U.S.-headquartered firm in London with approximately 170 lawyers. Dewey & LeBoeuf also will have a presence in nearly every key international financial and commercial center and will rank as the 14th largest firm by headcount and the 16th largest firm by revenue in the United States. Steven H. Davis will lead the combined firm as Chairman, with equal representation from Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb on its Executive Committee. The Dewey & LeBoeuf merger will result in a broader and deeper client offering with complementary practice areas and industry focus, providing an excellent fit. In the instances where both firms' practice areas are similar, the combination makes those areas deeper and stronger. For example, the combined firm will be characterized by market-leading practice groups such as mergers and acquisitions, complex litigation, intellectual property litigation, government investigations, international trade, capital markets, structured finance, private equity, antitrust, and tax. The combined firm will possess leading industry experience in sectors including banking, energy, utilities, insurance, sports and entertainment, life sciences and healthcare, and telecommunications. "This strategic combination will create a premier New York law firm with extensive global reach," said LeBoeuf Lamb's Chairman, Steven H. Davis. "The quality, scale and scope we will offer as a combined firm will enable us to continue attracting the most prominent clients and to address complex and challenging legal issues our clients face on a national and global basis. Combining our strengths and collective resources into one organization advances LeBoeuf Lamb's goal to broaden and deepen our practice offerings and global presence, add highly skilled and dynamic lawyers and continue to focus on increasing profitability." "Dewey Ballantine has been focused on growth for some time, and this combination with LeBoeuf Lamb is an especially good fit. LeBoeuf Lamb brings a practice and industry focus that complements and enhances our areas of practice to create a powerful array of offerings for clients," said Morton Pierce, Co-chair of Dewey Ballantine. "Clients will benefit from significant additional resources from a firm with a presence in nearly every key international financial and commercial center, and we believe this combination is to the advantage of everyone at the firm and our clients worldwide." Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb, which are both headquartered in New York City, share a similar heritage and evolution, which is underscored by the firms・ compatible cultures, values, and visions. Both firms have comparable operational and governance structures that will facilitate a smooth integration. Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb・s financial metrics are also similar. Moreover, both firms share a strong commitment to the priorities highlighted in The American Lawyer's elite "AList," including associate satisfaction, diversity, and the provision of pro bono legal services. The merger of Dewey Ballantine and LeBoeuf Lamb creates a catalyst for increased growth and profitability. The combined firm will be favorably positioned to capitalize on its existing international presence for even greater global success. Dewey & LeBoeuf will build on the momentum of both firms・ recent achievements: http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1397 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1397&page=22 Address : One Constitution Plaza, Phone : 860-251-5000, City : Hartford The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art announces the appointment of Coleman H. Casey, currently President of the Board of Trustees, as Acting Director of the Museum until such time as a new Director is hired. The Museum is presently engaged in an international search for a new Director to replace Willard Holmes, who resigned in April. Casey has been the President of the Board since November 2005, having first joined the Board of Trustees in 1990. He has served during that time on a wide variety of Museum committees. He is a graduate of Amherst College and The Yale Law School and is a partner in the Hartford law firm of Shipman & Goodwin LLP. In addition to his leadership of the Atheneum, Casey is a long-standing member of various boards, including the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, where he has also served as President of the Board. "I am honored and moved by the Museum's appointment of me," Casey remarked. "During this transition, the Museum needs day-to-day executive leadership. The Museum is one of the nation's cultural jewels and continues to be the same vital and stimulating gallery it has been since its founding in 1842." "It will be a tremendous asset for the Museum to have even greater access to Coleman's business and leadership skills," noted Nicholas Ruocco, Deputy Director. "The search for a new Director can typically take many months, so it is vital that the team now in place manage the Museum to the best of its resources and engage its members and visitors during this period," Casey commented. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the dedicated and talented staff of the Museum, Casey will lead the Museum in the coming months in showcasing its outstanding permanent collections and presenting great exhibitions so that the next Director has a vibrant, out-reaching and forward-looking museum to run. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, founded in 1842, is a Connecticut cultural treasure and America's oldest continuously operating art museum. With collections that include nearly 50,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, the Museum is welcoming back its old Masters formerly on traveling loan as it currently celebrates the exhibition Faith and Fortune: Five Centuries of European Masterworks-glorious paintings, sculpture and decorative arts displayed as never before. The Museum looks ahead to a robust season of upcoming exhibitions with again: serial practices in contemporary art, photo-based art inspired by a gift from the celebrated local collector Mickey Cartin, from September 22 through December 30, 2007; Matrix 157/Christopher Mir, a collection of unique paintings compiled from collage images that suggest both traditional and Surrealist style, will be on exhibit from October 4, 2007 through January 6, 2008; and not-to-be-missed is the major international traveling exhibition, Impressionists by the Sea, opening February 9, 2008, with over 50 paintings documenting French 19th century artists' fascination with the Normandy coast. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art announces the appointment of Coleman H. Casey, currently President of the Board of Trustees, as Acting Director of the Museum until such time as a new Director is hired. The Museum is presently engaged in an international search for a new Director to replace Willard Holmes, who resigned in April. Casey has been the President of the Board since November 2005, having first joined the Board of Trustees in 1990. He has served during that time on a wide variety of Museum committees. He is a graduate of Amherst College and The Yale Law School and is a partner in the Hartford law firm of Shipman & Goodwin LLP. In addition to his leadership of the Atheneum, Casey is a long-standing member of various boards, including the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, where he has also served as President of the Board. "I am honored and moved by the Museum's appointment of me," Casey remarked. "During this transition, the Museum needs day-to-day executive leadership. The Museum is one of the nation's cultural jewels and continues to be the same vital and stimulating gallery it has been since its founding in 1842." "It will be a tremendous asset for the Museum to have even greater access to Coleman's business and leadership skills," noted Nicholas Ruocco, Deputy Director. "The search for a new Director can typically take many months, so it is vital that the team now in place manage the Museum to the best of its resources and engage its members and visitors during this period," Casey commented. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the dedicated and talented staff of the Museum, Casey will lead the Museum in the coming months in showcasing its outstanding permanent collections and presenting great exhibitions so that the next Director has a vibrant, out-reaching and forward-looking museum to run. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, founded in 1842, is a Connecticut cultural treasure and America's oldest continuously operating art museum. With collections that include nearly 50,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, the Museum is welcoming back its old Masters formerly on traveling loan as it currently celebrates the exhibition Faith and Fortune: Five Centuries of European Masterworks-glorious paintings, sculpture and decorative arts displayed as never before. The Museum looks ahead to a robust season of upcoming exhibitions with again: serial practices in contemporary art, photo-based art inspired by a gift from the celebrated local collector Mickey Cartin, from September 22 through December 30, 2007; Matrix 157/Christopher Mir, a collection of unique paintings compiled from collage images that suggest both traditional and Surrealist style, will be on exhibit from October 4, 2007 through January 6, 2008; and not-to-be-missed is the major international traveling exhibition, Impressionists by the Sea, opening February 9, 2008, with over 50 paintings documenting French 19th century artists' fascination with the Normandy coast. Shipman & Goodwin attorney John E. Kreitler has been named Chairman of the Board for the Connecticut Opera Association. During his term as Chairman, Mr. Kreitler hopes to promote the expansion and diversity of the company's audiences through high quality, imaginative productions and outreach programs. "The 2006-2007 season shift of two of our three productions to the intimate setting of the Belding Theater was both an artistic and financial success, which yielded sold-out performances and enthusiastic audiences," said Mr. Kreitler. "Looking forward, we are excited about our first collaboration with the Palace Theater of Waterbury to open Tosca there next fall, and to produce a concert of world famous opera arias for staging there in January 2008." Prior to his election as Chairman of the Board, Attorney Kreitler served the last three years as President of the Connecticut Opera. Founded in 1942, the Connecticut Opera just celebrated its 65th season and is the sixth oldest professional opera company in the United States. Its mission is to produce quality opera featuring well-known and emerging artists, stage directors and conductors, offer opera education and outreach programs that engage diverse communities, and introduce and encourage further appreciation of opera. Shipman & Goodwin attorney John E. Kreitler has been named Chairman of the Board for the Connecticut Opera Association. During his term as Chairman, Mr. Kreitler hopes to promote the expansion and diversity of the company's audiences through high quality, imaginative productions and outreach programs. "The 2006-2007 season shift of two of our three productions to the intimate setting of the Belding Theater was both an artistic and financial success, which yielded sold-out performances and enthusiastic audiences," said Mr. Kreitler. "Looking forward, we are excited about our first collaboration with the Palace Theater of Waterbury to open Tosca there next fall, and to produce a concert of world famous opera arias for staging there in January 2008." Prior to his election as Chairman of the Board, Attorney Kreitler served the last three years as President of the Connecticut Opera. Founded in 1942, the Connecticut Opera just celebrated its 65th season and is the sixth oldest professional opera company in the United States. Its mission is to produce quality opera featuring well-known and emerging artists, stage directors and conductors, offer opera education and outreach programs that engage diverse communities, and introduce and encourage further appreciation of opera. For the fifth consecutive year, Shipman & Goodwin was acknowledged by Chambers USA for its work in Litigation: General Commercial, Corporate/ Mergers & Acquisitions, Labor & Employment and Real Estate. This year, Chambers USA also named Shipman & Goodwin as a leading law firm in Environmental law. In addition, nine of the firm's attorneys were recognized for their knowledge and experience in their respective areas of law. Shipman & Goodwin ranked among the top five law firms in the state for its work in Labor & Employment while the firm ranked among the top six law firms in the state for its work in Corporate/M&A, Litigation and Real Estate. For the first time, Chambers USA recognized Shipman & Goodwin as a leading law firm in Environmental law, a new category for 2007. The firm was one of seven law firms in the state recognized in this category. Chambers USA also identified nine of the firm's attorneys - five of which were previously ranked by the client guide - for their outstanding work in their respective area of law including: Brian Clemow, Labor & Employment; Barry Hawkins, Real Estate; Timothy Hollister, Real Estate; Paul Sanson, Litigation: General Commercial; and Robert Wyld, Litigation: General Commercial. This year, Chambers USA also acknowledged John Kreitler for his work in Corporate/M&A, as well as Christopher Smith, John Wertam and Joseph Williams for their work in Environmental law. Published by London-based Chambers & Partners, Chambers USA is the nation's preeminent guide to law firms and individual attorneys. The selection process is based on interviews with in-house counsel and other attorneys around the country. The rankings are based on qualities including technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial awareness/astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other categories most valued by the client. For the fifth consecutive year, Shipman & Goodwin was acknowledged by Chambers USA for its work in Litigation: General Commercial, Corporate/ Mergers & Acquisitions, Labor & Employment and Real Estate. This year, Chambers USA also named Shipman & Goodwin as a leading law firm in Environmental law. In addition, nine of the firm's attorneys were recognized for their knowledge and experience in their respective areas of law. Shipman & Goodwin ranked among the top five law firms in the state for its work in Labor & Employment while the firm ranked among the top six law firms in the state for its work in Corporate/M&A, Litigation and Real Estate. For the first time, Chambers USA recognized Shipman & Goodwin as a leading law firm in Environmental law, a new category for 2007. The firm was one of seven law firms in the state recognized in this category. Chambers USA also identified nine of the firm's attorneys - five of which were previously ranked by the client guide - for their outstanding work in their respective area of law including: Brian Clemow, Labor & Employment; Barry Hawkins, Real Estate; Timothy Hollister, Real Estate; Paul Sanson, Litigation: General Commercial; and Robert Wyld, Litigation: General Commercial. This year, Chambers USA also acknowledged John Kreitler for his work in Corporate/M&A, as well as Christopher Smith, John Wertam and Joseph Williams for their work in Environmental law. Published by London-based Chambers & Partners, Chambers USA is the nation's preeminent guide to law firms and individual attorneys. The selection process is based on interviews with in-house counsel and other attorneys around the country. The rankings are based on qualities including technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial awareness/astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other categories most valued by the client. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2181 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2181&page=23 Address : 23 Woodland Road, Phone : 203-318-3600, City : Madison David P. Atkins has joined Tyler Cooper as a litigation partner in the New Haven office. He has more than 23 years of experience in the trial and appeal of complex civil cases, including antitrust, securities, insurance coverage and trade secrets disputes. David focuses his practice on the representation of professionals, including attorneys and law firms, in malpractice, business dissolution, licensing, court sanction proceedings, bar admission, ethics and disciplinary (grievance) matters. With extensive experience in the law of lawyering, he regularly is engaged as an expert witness on legal ethics and professional liability issues. In addition, he provides risk management advice to both law firms and corporate legal departments. David joins other attorneys at Tyler Cooper with experience in representing professionals in business matters, regulatory compliance, licensing and litigation. David served on the Connecticut Bar Association's Task Force on Attorney Grievance Procedures, Joint Task Force on Future Funding for Legal Services, and Special Committee on In-House Counsel Certification. He regularly speaks about professional responsibility issues to attorney organizations, including the Connecticut Bar Association, Stamford/Norwalk Regional Bar Association, Greater Bridgeport Bar Association, New Haven County Bar Association, Westport Bar Association and Westchester Fairfield Corporate Counsel Association (WESFACCA). He frequently is invited to speak on legal ethics at Yale Law School, University of Connecticut School of Law and Quinnipiac University School of Law. In addition, he is an author of numerous articles on attorney discipline, legal ethics and law office management. David has acted as Special Counsel to the Grievance Committee of the U.S. District Court, District of Connecticut. He is a member of the national Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers and served as director of that organization from 1996 to 1998. David received his B.A., summa cum laude, from Columbia University in 1978 and his J.D. from Yale Law School in 1981. He served as law clerk to Hon. Almeric L. Christian, U.S. District Court, District of the Virgin Islands. He is admitted to practice in Connecticut and the Virgin Islands; the U.S. Court of Appeals, Second Circuit and Third Circuit; the U.S. Tax Court; and the U.S. Supreme Court. David P. Atkins has joined Tyler Cooper as a litigation partner in the New Haven office. He has more than 23 years of experience in the trial and appeal of complex civil cases, including antitrust, securities, insurance coverage and trade secrets disputes. David focuses his practice on the representation of professionals, including attorneys and law firms, in malpractice, business dissolution, licensing, court sanction proceedings, bar admission, ethics and disciplinary (grievance) matters. With extensive experience in the law of lawyering, he regularly is engaged as an expert witness on legal ethics and professional liability issues. In addition, he provides risk management advice to both law firms and corporate legal departments. David joins other attorneys at Tyler Cooper with experience in representing professionals in business matters, regulatory compliance, licensing and litigation. David served on the Connecticut Bar Association's Task Force on Attorney Grievance Procedures, Joint Task Force on Future Funding for Legal Services, and Special Committee on In-House Counsel Certification. He regularly speaks about professional responsibility issues to attorney organizations, including the Connecticut Bar Association, Stamford/Norwalk Regional Bar Association, Greater Bridgeport Bar Association, New Haven County Bar Association, Westport Bar Association and Westchester Fairfield Corporate Counsel Association (WESFACCA). He frequently is invited to speak on legal ethics at Yale Law School, University of Connecticut School of Law and Quinnipiac University School of Law. In addition, he is an author of numerous articles on attorney discipline, legal ethics and law office management. David has acted as Special Counsel to the Grievance Committee of the U.S. District Court, District of Connecticut. He is a member of the national Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers and served as director of that organization from 1996 to 1998. David received his B.A., summa cum laude, from Columbia University in 1978 and his J.D. from Yale Law School in 1981. He served as law clerk to Hon. Almeric L. Christian, U.S. District Court, District of the Virgin Islands. He is admitted to practice in Connecticut and the Virgin Islands; the U.S. Court of Appeals, Second Circuit and Third Circuit; the U.S. Tax Court; and the U.S. Supreme Court. Tyler Cooper partner Elizabeth K. Acee will be elevated to the position of Chair-Elect of the American Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division at the organization's annual meeting August 9-11, 2007, in San Francisco. Lizz, who has served as Secretary-Treasurer of the 149,000-member nationwide organization since August 2006, now begins her one-year term as Chair-Elect. In August 2008, she will assume the office of Chair, the top leadership post in the ABA/YLD. As Chair, she will be responsible for national administration of the organization through August 2009. The ABA Young Lawyers Division is made up of attorneys under the age of 36, as well as those practicing law for five years or less. The goal of the organization is to advance the integrity of the legal profession, provide services and outreach to its members, and promote public service. Among Lizz's goals for the ABA/YLD is to launch a national public service project for young lawyers. Indeed, it is the service aspect of the organization that initially attracted Lizz to become involved in its programs. When interviewed by an ABA/YLD publication, she said that working with the organization inspired her "to tirelessly advocate for those without a voice, and to help engineer steady progress for the underprivileged and underrepresented." Lizz is a litigation attorney in Tyler Cooper's New Haven office. She focuses on commercial litigation and labor and employment law, and also handles a variety of other complex matters including unfair trade practice disputes, contract disputes, health care fraud and abuse cases, and product liability claims. It is not surprising that Lizz has been selected to take on national responsibilities with the ABA Young Lawyers Division. In Connecticut, Lizz has a long history of bar association involvement. She is a past Chair of the Connecticut Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section, the largest section of the Connecticut Bar. She also served as the organization's Secretary, Treasurer and Chair-Elect. She has also held the office of Assistant Secretary-Treasurer with the CBA Senior Section. Additionally, Lizz spent a number of years chairing the Women in the Law Committee for both the CBA Young Lawyers Section and Senior Section. Lizz is not the first of Tyler Cooper's attorneys to take on a national leadership role in young lawyers' organizations. In the early 1950s, former Tyler Cooper Partner Richard H. Bowerman served as Chair of the ABA Junior Bar Conference, the ABA/YLD's predecessor organization. He held the post in 1953, having served as Vice Chairman in 1952 and Secretary in 1951. Richard Bowerman and Lizz are the only two Connecticut lawyers ever to have achieved these leadership positions. Tyler Cooper partner Elizabeth K. Acee will be elevated to the position of Chair-Elect of the American Bar Association's Young Lawyers Division at the organization's annual meeting August 9-11, 2007, in San Francisco. Lizz, who has served as Secretary-Treasurer of the 149,000-member nationwide organization since August 2006, now begins her one-year term as Chair-Elect. In August 2008, she will assume the office of Chair, the top leadership post in the ABA/YLD. As Chair, she will be responsible for national administration of the organization through August 2009. The ABA Young Lawyers Division is made up of attorneys under the age of 36, as well as those practicing law for five years or less. The goal of the organization is to advance the integrity of the legal profession, provide services and outreach to its members, and promote public service. Among Lizz's goals for the ABA/YLD is to launch a national public service project for young lawyers. Indeed, it is the service aspect of the organization that initially attracted Lizz to become involved in its programs. When interviewed by an ABA/YLD publication, she said that working with the organization inspired her "to tirelessly advocate for those without a voice, and to help engineer steady progress for the underprivileged and underrepresented." Lizz is a litigation attorney in Tyler Cooper's New Haven office. She focuses on commercial litigation and labor and employment law, and also handles a variety of other complex matters including unfair trade practice disputes, contract disputes, health care fraud and abuse cases, and product liability claims. It is not surprising that Lizz has been selected to take on national responsibilities with the ABA Young Lawyers Division. In Connecticut, Lizz has a long history of bar association involvement. She is a past Chair of the Connecticut Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section, the largest section of the Connecticut Bar. She also served as the organization's Secretary, Treasurer and Chair-Elect. She has also held the office of Assistant Secretary-Treasurer with the CBA Senior Section. Additionally, Lizz spent a number of years chairing the Women in the Law Committee for both the CBA Young Lawyers Section and Senior Section. Lizz is not the first of Tyler Cooper's attorneys to take on a national leadership role in young lawyers' organizations. In the early 1950s, former Tyler Cooper Partner Richard H. Bowerman served as Chair of the ABA Junior Bar Conference, the ABA/YLD's predecessor organization. He held the post in 1953, having served as Vice Chairman in 1952 and Secretary in 1951. Richard Bowerman and Lizz are the only two Connecticut lawyers ever to have achieved these leadership positions. Laura S. Mitler has joined Tyler Cooper as a partner in the firm's New Haven office. She will concentrate her practice in the area of Family Law. Before coming to Tyler Cooper, Laura had been in solo practice, focusing on Family Law matters including marriage dissolutions, custody, alimony and asset distribution. At Tyler Cooper, she joins attorney James R. Greenfield in the Family Law group. Laura is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University and Western New England College School of Law. She is a member of the Connecticut, New Haven County, and West Haven bar associations. She was recently elected President of the West Haven Bar Association after serving as Secretary and Treasurer for many years. Laura was awarded the University of Connecticut Certificate of Mediation in 2000 and has served for the past four years as an arbitrator for the Connecticut Better Business Bureau. In addition, she has served as a Special Master for Family Matters in the Milford and New Haven Superior Courts, assisting attorneys and litigants in the resolution of complex issues regarding marriage dissolution. A resident of Woodbridge, Laura has served as a member of the town's Commission on the Use of Publicly Owned Property and has been a Justice of the Peace since 1999. Laura S. Mitler has joined Tyler Cooper as a partner in the firm's New Haven office. She will concentrate her practice in the area of Family Law. Before coming to Tyler Cooper, Laura had been in solo practice, focusing on Family Law matters including marriage dissolutions, custody, alimony and asset distribution. At Tyler Cooper, she joins attorney James R. Greenfield in the Family Law group. Laura is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University and Western New England College School of Law. She is a member of the Connecticut, New Haven County, and West Haven bar associations. She was recently elected President of the West Haven Bar Association after serving as Secretary and Treasurer for many years. Laura was awarded the University of Connecticut Certificate of Mediation in 2000 and has served for the past four years as an arbitrator for the Connecticut Better Business Bureau. In addition, she has served as a Special Master for Family Matters in the Milford and New Haven Superior Courts, assisting attorneys and litigants in the resolution of complex issues regarding marriage dissolution. A resident of Woodbridge, Laura has served as a member of the town's Commission on the Use of Publicly Owned Property and has been a Justice of the Peace since 1999. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2414 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2414&page=48 Address : Ten Columbus BoulevardHartford Square North, Third Floor, Phone : 860-525-5361, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=929 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=929&page=26 Address : 185 Asylum Street22nd Floor, Phone : 860-278-7480, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2039 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2039&page=27 Address : 90 State House Square, Phone : 860-525-5065, City : Hartford Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge is pleased to announce that Reta J. Lewis has joined the firm's Washington, D.C. office as Counsel, providing strategic corporate consulting services in public policy and government affairs. Ms. Lewis is a member of the Public Finance and Emerging Markets Practice Groups. "We are thrilled to have Reta as a member of our team," said Terrence M. Finn, Co-Managing Partner of Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge, "she brings more than 20 years of experience in public policy, government affairs, politics and law and is a fantastic addition to our new and growing Washington D.C. office." Ms. Lewis is a prominent government relations veteran who has worked extensively with the Democratic leadership in both Houses of Congress. Ms. Lewis has worked as a senior political advisor to President Clinton and as Vice President and Counselor to the President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, serving as one of the Chamber's experts on small business, and developing strategic relationships to minority and women-owned businesses, non-governmental organizations and constituency groups. Ms. Lewis' practice focuses on providing government relations and strategic counsel to corporations, trade associations, individuals and non-profit organizations before Congress, the White House, regulatory agencies and municipal governments. She also specializes in working with governors, mayors, county executives, their senior staff, and state and local legislators across the country. She has been involved with state, congressional, and six presidential campaigns and serves on the board of directors of multiple philanthropic and academic entities. Ms. Lewis received her J.D. from Emory University, her Master of Science in the Administration of Justice degree from American University, and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Georgia. She is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Georgia. Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge is pleased to announce that Reta J. Lewis has joined the firm's Washington, D.C. office as Counsel, providing strategic corporate consulting services in public policy and government affairs. Ms. Lewis is a member of the Public Finance and Emerging Markets Practice Groups. "We are thrilled to have Reta as a member of our team," said Terrence M. Finn, Co-Managing Partner of Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge, "she brings more than 20 years of experience in public policy, government affairs, politics and law and is a fantastic addition to our new and growing Washington D.C. office." Ms. Lewis is a prominent government relations veteran who has worked extensively with the Democratic leadership in both Houses of Congress. Ms. Lewis has worked as a senior political advisor to President Clinton and as Vice President and Counselor to the President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, serving as one of the Chamber's experts on small business, and developing strategic relationships to minority and women-owned businesses, non-governmental organizations and constituency groups. Ms. Lewis' practice focuses on providing government relations and strategic counsel to corporations, trade associations, individuals and non-profit organizations before Congress, the White House, regulatory agencies and municipal governments. She also specializes in working with governors, mayors, county executives, their senior staff, and state and local legislators across the country. She has been involved with state, congressional, and six presidential campaigns and serves on the board of directors of multiple philanthropic and academic entities. Ms. Lewis received her J.D. from Emory University, her Master of Science in the Administration of Justice degree from American University, and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Georgia. She is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Georgia. Gail E. Abbey, Kori R. Anderson, Brian K. Wells, Jermaine L. Kidd, Cecelia Lockner, Thomas H. Wintner, Nathaniel Gaede, Evan D. Kearns, Christopher S. Pearsall, Matthew W. Tikonoff, Sucharita S. Varanasi, Brian Landry, Eric B. Mack, Nancy H. Van der Veer, Jason Van Volkenburgh, Carolina M. Felix, Elisabeth J. Piro, Alison A. Reuter, Timothy Bennett-Smyth, Alfred J. Kritzman, Jaime D. Guttman, Sarah E. O'Dea, Cynthia Moh Gail E. Abbey, Kori R. Anderson, Brian K. Wells, Jermaine L. Kidd, Cecelia Lockner, Thomas H. Wintner, Nathaniel Gaede, Evan D. Kearns, Christopher S. Pearsall, Matthew W. Tikonoff, Sucharita S. Varanasi, Brian Landry, Eric B. Mack, Nancy H. Van der Veer, Jason Van Volkenburgh, Carolina M. Felix, Elisabeth J. Piro, Alison A. Reuter, Timothy Bennett-Smyth, Alfred J. Kritzman, Jaime D. Guttman, Sarah E. O'Dea, Cynthia Moh The United States District Court for the Southern District of New York reversed a bankruptcy judge's order and dismissed an accounting malpractice claim against Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge client, BDO Seidman, LLP, in the bankruptcy of Suprema Specialties, Inc., a cheese company that has now been liquidated. The court's ruling hinged on the trustee's failure to serve and file an affidavit of merit within 120 days of BDO's answer as required by the New Jersey statutes. The court held that New Jersey law controlled notwithstanding the fact that the bankruptcy was pending in New York; that the affidavit of merit statute could be applied consistent with the Bankruptcy Rules; that the trustee's failure to appreciate the fact that he was required to comply did not excuse his failure to do so; and that a settlement meeting before the litigation commenced at which the trustee's accounting expert was present did not constitute substantial compliance with the statute. The complaint had sought damages of $175 million. The United States District Court for the Southern District of New York reversed a bankruptcy judge's order and dismissed an accounting malpractice claim against Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge client, BDO Seidman, LLP, in the bankruptcy of Suprema Specialties, Inc., a cheese company that has now been liquidated. The court's ruling hinged on the trustee's failure to serve and file an affidavit of merit within 120 days of BDO's answer as required by the New Jersey statutes. The court held that New Jersey law controlled notwithstanding the fact that the bankruptcy was pending in New York; that the affidavit of merit statute could be applied consistent with the Bankruptcy Rules; that the trustee's failure to appreciate the fact that he was required to comply did not excuse his failure to do so; and that a settlement meeting before the litigation commenced at which the trustee's accounting expert was present did not constitute substantial compliance with the statute. The complaint had sought damages of $175 million. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=688 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=688&page=28 Address : 100 Pearl Street14th Floor, Phone : 860-291-8419, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=358 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=358&page=29 Address : One Constitution Plaza10th Floor, Phone : 860-616-4441, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1712 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1712&page=30 Address : 185 Asylum Street10th Floor, Phone : 860-275-6400, City : Hartford What's it like at Brown Raysman Thinking about making a move over there to the real estate group.  How are the hours, people, etc?  Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP has assisted Centennial Energy Resources LLC, a subsidiary of longtime firm client MDU Resources Group, Inc., in inking a definitive agreement to sell its independent power production portfolio to Montana Acquisition Company LLC for approximately $600 million. Montana will also assume some $34 million in project-related debt in the transaction. As part of the deal, Montana will also acquire MDU's Colorado Energy Management, a business unit that provides design, construction, operation, and maintenance services to energy providers. A privately held energy concern, Montana is partnered in the deal with multibillion-dollar private equity fund Natural Gas Partners VIII LP. The transaction is scheduled to close in June and will be the largest in MDU's long history. Proceeds from the sale will be used to fund MDU's acquisition of Cascade Natural Gas Corp. and provide additional cash for growth opportunities in MDU's core lines of business. Centennial Power's generating assets include 603 MW of electric generating capacity located in Montana, Colorado, California, and Georgia. The assets are fully contracted under mid- to long-term power purchase and sale agreements, and include coal-fired, natural gas-fired, and wind-powered generation. Goldman Sachs also conducted a hotly contested, four-month competitive bidding auction of these assets on behalf of MDU. Thelen's firm-wide MDU team was led by New York managing partner Doug Davidson and also included partners Michael Weinstein (NY, Tax), Jarrett Fugh (SF, Real Estate), Lisa Cole (SV, IP), and Phil Lookadoo (DC, Regulatory), as well as New York Business and Finance associates Jennifer Goldberg, Tim Gladden, Binh-Minh Ha, and Emily Lewis, and TMC associate Craig Conte. Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP has assisted Centennial Energy Resources LLC, a subsidiary of longtime firm client MDU Resources Group, Inc., in inking a definitive agreement to sell its independent power production portfolio to Montana Acquisition Company LLC for approximately $600 million. Montana will also assume some $34 million in project-related debt in the transaction. As part of the deal, Montana will also acquire MDU's Colorado Energy Management, a business unit that provides design, construction, operation, and maintenance services to energy providers. A privately held energy concern, Montana is partnered in the deal with multibillion-dollar private equity fund Natural Gas Partners VIII LP. The transaction is scheduled to close in June and will be the largest in MDU's long history. Proceeds from the sale will be used to fund MDU's acquisition of Cascade Natural Gas Corp. and provide additional cash for growth opportunities in MDU's core lines of business. Centennial Power's generating assets include 603 MW of electric generating capacity located in Montana, Colorado, California, and Georgia. The assets are fully contracted under mid- to long-term power purchase and sale agreements, and include coal-fired, natural gas-fired, and wind-powered generation. Goldman Sachs also conducted a hotly contested, four-month competitive bidding auction of these assets on behalf of MDU. Thelen's firm-wide MDU team was led by New York managing partner Doug Davidson and also included partners Michael Weinstein (NY, Tax), Jarrett Fugh (SF, Real Estate), Lisa Cole (SV, IP), and Phil Lookadoo (DC, Regulatory), as well as New York Business and Finance associates Jennifer Goldberg, Tim Gladden, Binh-Minh Ha, and Emily Lewis, and TMC associate Craig Conte. The American Bar Association Forum on the Construction Industry has chosen New York-based Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP partner Robbie MacPherson to serve as Chair Elect for the coming one-year term. The Forum is the world's largest organization for construction lawyers. Mr. MacPherson has served the ABA Construction Forum for over a decade, first as a rank-and-file member, then rising to Division Chair, Program Chair, Governing Committee member, and, most recently, Chair of the Alternative CLE Committee. "We're all tremendously proud of Robbie," said John Heisse, chair of Thelen's Construction and Government Construction Department. "He is extremely well respected as a leader within the ABA, and this nomination is testimony to that. This reflects well on the firm, as a whole, and our New York construction practice, in particular." Mr. MacPherson's nomination became official following a voice vote at the Forum's Annual Meeting in April 2007. Once formally elected, he will commence his one-year term as Chair Elect in August 2007, then serve as Chair for a full year, and then as Immediate Past Chair during the year following. Thelen's involvement with the ABA Forum on the Construction Industry is long and deep. Currently, Washington, DC managing partner Andy Ness also serves on the Forum's Governing Committee. Additionally, New York Construction partner Jeffrey Cruz was recently named Editor of the Forum's newsletter, Under Construction. Previously, Jeff co-authored "Hard Hat Case Notes," a column in the Forum's other major publication, The Construction Lawyer, for which Washington, DC partner John Ralls serves as Assistant Editor. Thelen has a long history as a leading Construction law firm. In 2007, the firm has been named "Global Construction Law Firm of the Year" by Who's Who Legal. The American Bar Association Forum on the Construction Industry has chosen New York-based Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP partner Robbie MacPherson to serve as Chair Elect for the coming one-year term. The Forum is the world's largest organization for construction lawyers. Mr. MacPherson has served the ABA Construction Forum for over a decade, first as a rank-and-file member, then rising to Division Chair, Program Chair, Governing Committee member, and, most recently, Chair of the Alternative CLE Committee. "We're all tremendously proud of Robbie," said John Heisse, chair of Thelen's Construction and Government Construction Department. "He is extremely well respected as a leader within the ABA, and this nomination is testimony to that. This reflects well on the firm, as a whole, and our New York construction practice, in particular." Mr. MacPherson's nomination became official following a voice vote at the Forum's Annual Meeting in April 2007. Once formally elected, he will commence his one-year term as Chair Elect in August 2007, then serve as Chair for a full year, and then as Immediate Past Chair during the year following. Thelen's involvement with the ABA Forum on the Construction Industry is long and deep. Currently, Washington, DC managing partner Andy Ness also serves on the Forum's Governing Committee. Additionally, New York Construction partner Jeffrey Cruz was recently named Editor of the Forum's newsletter, Under Construction. Previously, Jeff co-authored "Hard Hat Case Notes," a column in the Forum's other major publication, The Construction Lawyer, for which Washington, DC partner John Ralls serves as Assistant Editor. Thelen has a long history as a leading Construction law firm. In 2007, the firm has been named "Global Construction Law Firm of the Year" by Who's Who Legal. A federal judge has had enough with unscrupulous plaintiffs' lawyers and denied class action certification in a lawsuit filed against Oreck Direct, LLC, the company best known for its high quality vacuum cleaners and air purifiers. Plaintiff's counsel claimed their client had suffered from allergies and that an air purifier sold by the company failed to alleviate his symptoms. The lawyers had asked to certify a class of more than 70,000 people. But in an opinion that could put plaintiffs' lawyers on notice and possibly have far-reaching implications for class action certification, United States Northern District of California Judge Marilyn Hall Patel, who granted class status in the Napster case, found that the lawyers had manufactured their lawsuit against the defendant after it was revealed that they found the lead plaintiff through a newspaper ad. "The conduct in this action does not look good, does not sound good, and does not smell good. In fact, it reeks," Patel wrote in her opinion. She added: "It is clear from the record that plaintiff's counsel, and not plaintiff, is the driving force behind this action." Patel's opinion, which was issued April 25, was welcomed by defense lawyers who have been pressing the issue of adequacy of class counsel and representatives for years. Thelen commercial litigation partner David Aronoff, who led Oreck's defense, called the decision, "groundbreaking." He said class action plaintiffs' lawyers have been cashing in on settlements that net them huge multimillion dollar fees. In their exuberance to keep the spigot open wide, these lawyers resort to manufacturing the litigation. That is, baking up a lawsuit and then going out to solicit a class representative. "Judge Patel issued a resounding 'no' to lawyer-driven litigation," Aronoff said. "She wanted nothing to do with cases manufactured by the plaintiff's lawyers in order to create legal fees for themselves. This judge finally said enough is enough. A federal judge has had enough with unscrupulous plaintiffs' lawyers and denied class action certification in a lawsuit filed against Oreck Direct, LLC, the company best known for its high quality vacuum cleaners and air purifiers. Plaintiff's counsel claimed their client had suffered from allergies and that an air purifier sold by the company failed to alleviate his symptoms. The lawyers had asked to certify a class of more than 70,000 people. But in an opinion that could put plaintiffs' lawyers on notice and possibly have far-reaching implications for class action certification, United States Northern District of California Judge Marilyn Hall Patel, who granted class status in the Napster case, found that the lawyers had manufactured their lawsuit against the defendant after it was revealed that they found the lead plaintiff through a newspaper ad. "The conduct in this action does not look good, does not sound good, and does not smell good. In fact, it reeks," Patel wrote in her opinion. She added: "It is clear from the record that plaintiff's counsel, and not plaintiff, is the driving force behind this action." Patel's opinion, which was issued April 25, was welcomed by defense lawyers who have been pressing the issue of adequacy of class counsel and representatives for years. Thelen commercial litigation partner David Aronoff, who led Oreck's defense, called the decision, "groundbreaking." He said class action plaintiffs' lawyers have been cashing in on settlements that net them huge multimillion dollar fees. In their exuberance to keep the spigot open wide, these lawyers resort to manufacturing the litigation. That is, baking up a lawsuit and then going out to solicit a class representative. "Judge Patel issued a resounding 'no' to lawyer-driven litigation," Aronoff said. "She wanted nothing to do with cases manufactured by the plaintiff's lawyers in order to create legal fees for themselves. This judge finally said enough is enough. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=287 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=287&page=31 Address : One State StreetP.O. Box 231277, Phone : 860-548-2600, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2420 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2420&page=32 Address : 322A Main Street, Phone : 860-435-9894, City : Lakeville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1975 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1975&page=46 Address : One State Street, Phone : 860-240-2700, City : Hartford I whack Bingham McCutchen I sent in a resume in 2004 for a summer associate position and NEVER HEARD BACK! Really unprofessional. Incorrect information Judged has the salary info wrong. Bingham McCutchen LLP, led by San Francisco partners Beth Parker and Monty Agarwal, and Silicon Valley partner Bill Abrams, won a significant victory yesterday for Seoul Semiconductor when a U.S. District Court judge dismissed Nichia Corp.'s induced patent-infringement claim against the largest light-emitting diode (LED) lighting solutions manufacturer in Korea. The court also ordered that Seoul's invalid-patent claims against Nichia involving ornamental designs for LED products may proceed to trial, scheduled for Sept. 10. Judge Maxine M. Chesney of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California rejected Nichia's allegations that Seoul had induced the infringement of four Nichia patents and entered judgment in favor of Seoul. The court found that Nichia failed to present any evidence that Seoul induced the infringement of Nichia design patents in the United States through sales of its 902 series LEDs to customers in Asia. "This is a vindication of Seoul Semiconductor's business practices," said Parker. "The ruling reduces Nichia's initial claims for millions of dollars to thousands of dollars." Assisting Parker, Agarwal and Abrams were Bingham associates Kevin Bovard, Tom Clifford, Andrew Ellsworth, George Fox, Judith Hom, Chi Soo Kim, Amy Melaugh, Hoddy Potter, Samantha Stonework, Adrienne Taclas and Tiega Noel Varlack. Japan-based Nichia sued Seoul Semiconductor in January 2006, alleging that Seoul infringed on its patents for ornamental designs for LEDs. In May 2006, Seoul filed counterclaims against Nichia, alleging noninfringement and invalidity. Seoul Semiconductor is one of the 10 largest LED lighting-solutions manufacturers in the world. Seoul Semiconductor has been named to Forbes and BusinessWeek's lists as one of the most promising Asian companies. Its product Acriche was recently named "Product of the Year 2006" by Elektronik, one of the most prestigious electronics magazines in Europe. Seoul Semiconductor's primary business areas are LED packaging and custom-module manufacturing. It provides a full range of LED products, including AC-driven semiconductor light source, Acriche, high-brightness power, side-view, top, chip, lamp, and high-flux LEDs, and custom-type modules. Applications for the company's LED products include general lighting; signage; back lighting for mobile phones, televisions and notebook computers; automotive lighting; home appliances; and signals. Seoul Semiconductor has 1,251 patents and 100 licenses. The company reported $200 million in sales in 2006 and has more than 1,000 employees, of which more than 145 are dedicated to research and development. It runs three overseas corporate offices and 11 branches, and approximately 90 distributors in the world. Bingham McCutchen LLP, led by San Francisco partners Beth Parker and Monty Agarwal, and Silicon Valley partner Bill Abrams, won a significant victory yesterday for Seoul Semiconductor when a U.S. District Court judge dismissed Nichia Corp.'s induced patent-infringement claim against the largest light-emitting diode (LED) lighting solutions manufacturer in Korea. The court also ordered that Seoul's invalid-patent claims against Nichia involving ornamental designs for LED products may proceed to trial, scheduled for Sept. 10. Judge Maxine M. Chesney of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California rejected Nichia's allegations that Seoul had induced the infringement of four Nichia patents and entered judgment in favor of Seoul. The court found that Nichia failed to present any evidence that Seoul induced the infringement of Nichia design patents in the United States through sales of its 902 series LEDs to customers in Asia. "This is a vindication of Seoul Semiconductor's business practices," said Parker. "The ruling reduces Nichia's initial claims for millions of dollars to thousands of dollars." Assisting Parker, Agarwal and Abrams were Bingham associates Kevin Bovard, Tom Clifford, Andrew Ellsworth, George Fox, Judith Hom, Chi Soo Kim, Amy Melaugh, Hoddy Potter, Samantha Stonework, Adrienne Taclas and Tiega Noel Varlack. Japan-based Nichia sued Seoul Semiconductor in January 2006, alleging that Seoul infringed on its patents for ornamental designs for LEDs. In May 2006, Seoul filed counterclaims against Nichia, alleging noninfringement and invalidity. Seoul Semiconductor is one of the 10 largest LED lighting-solutions manufacturers in the world. Seoul Semiconductor has been named to Forbes and BusinessWeek's lists as one of the most promising Asian companies. Its product Acriche was recently named "Product of the Year 2006" by Elektronik, one of the most prestigious electronics magazines in Europe. Seoul Semiconductor's primary business areas are LED packaging and custom-module manufacturing. It provides a full range of LED products, including AC-driven semiconductor light source, Acriche, high-brightness power, side-view, top, chip, lamp, and high-flux LEDs, and custom-type modules. Applications for the company's LED products include general lighting; signage; back lighting for mobile phones, televisions and notebook computers; automotive lighting; home appliances; and signals. Seoul Semiconductor has 1,251 patents and 100 licenses. The company reported $200 million in sales in 2006 and has more than 1,000 employees, of which more than 145 are dedicated to research and development. It runs three overseas corporate offices and 11 branches, and approximately 90 distributors in the world. Bingham McCutchen LLP, led by Hartford Financial Institutions Litigation partner G. Eric Brunstad Jr. and Boston of counsel Rheba Rutkowski, won a significant appeal yesterday for Variable Annuity Life Insurance Co. (VALIC) in a decision that upholds the enforceability of voluntary prepayment premiums. The ruling is expected to have broad impact on commercial lending. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit ruled in River East Plaza LLC v. Variable Annuity Life Insurance Co. that a Treasury-flat voluntary prepayment provision in a commercial loan was not an unenforceable penalty, remanding the case to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Typical voluntary prepayment premiums, known as yield-maintenance formulas, require the borrower to compensate the lender for the interest that the lender will not receive if the borrower repays the loan before the maturity date. "This is an important victory for commercial lenders and will have a wide impact on the industry as a whole," said Brunstad. "Prepayment protection is a vital feature of commercial loan documents for lenders. The prepayment premium protects the lender against reinvestment risk, and this ruling reinforces this basic principle." The Bingham team, which was hired on appeal, also included Boston associates Alison Hickey, Christopher Hurld, Michael Moran and Samuel Rowley. Yesterday's ruling overturns the district court's finding that the prepayment provision should be analyzed as a form of liquidated damages penalty in the context of a voluntary prepayment. The lower court determined that the fee in this case was not reasonably related to the damages that the lender suffered and that the parties did not agree to it in advance, so it was an unenforceable penalty. VALIC was ordered to refund nearly $3.7 million. The Bingham team argued that the district court's use of a liquidated damages analysis was inappropriate in the context of a voluntary prepayment and that the provision was not a penalty. The Seventh Circuit agreed and ruled that the Treasury-flat prepayment premium was not a disguised penalty, entered a ruling in favor of VALIC, and remanded the case to the district court for determination of ancillary issues, including VALIC's entitlement to its attorneys' fees. River East Plaza had borrowed money against real estate on a fixed rate for 20 years, secured by a mortgage. Three years later, River East Plaza wanted to prepay the loan in order to sell the property, but it wanted to avoid the prepayment premium. River East Plaza sued VALIC, seeking declaratory judgment that a voluntary prepayment premium in a commercial note was an unenforceable penalty. The loan required a prepayment fee equal to either 1 percent of the proposed prepayment or the difference between the value of the remaining principal and interest from the date of prepayment to the maturity date discounted by the reinvestment rate, whichever was greater. The reinvestment rate was defined as the yield on a U.S. Treasury bond having a maturity date equal to the outstanding maturity date of the loan, known as a Treasury-flat prepayment fee. Bingham McCutchen LLP, led by Hartford Financial Institutions Litigation partner G. Eric Brunstad Jr. and Boston of counsel Rheba Rutkowski, won a significant appeal yesterday for Variable Annuity Life Insurance Co. (VALIC) in a decision that upholds the enforceability of voluntary prepayment premiums. The ruling is expected to have broad impact on commercial lending. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit ruled in River East Plaza LLC v. Variable Annuity Life Insurance Co. that a Treasury-flat voluntary prepayment provision in a commercial loan was not an unenforceable penalty, remanding the case to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Typical voluntary prepayment premiums, known as yield-maintenance formulas, require the borrower to compensate the lender for the interest that the lender will not receive if the borrower repays the loan before the maturity date. "This is an important victory for commercial lenders and will have a wide impact on the industry as a whole," said Brunstad. "Prepayment protection is a vital feature of commercial loan documents for lenders. The prepayment premium protects the lender against reinvestment risk, and this ruling reinforces this basic principle." The Bingham team, which was hired on appeal, also included Boston associates Alison Hickey, Christopher Hurld, Michael Moran and Samuel Rowley. Yesterday's ruling overturns the district court's finding that the prepayment provision should be analyzed as a form of liquidated damages penalty in the context of a voluntary prepayment. The lower court determined that the fee in this case was not reasonably related to the damages that the lender suffered and that the parties did not agree to it in advance, so it was an unenforceable penalty. VALIC was ordered to refund nearly $3.7 million. The Bingham team argued that the district court's use of a liquidated damages analysis was inappropriate in the context of a voluntary prepayment and that the provision was not a penalty. The Seventh Circuit agreed and ruled that the Treasury-flat prepayment premium was not a disguised penalty, entered a ruling in favor of VALIC, and remanded the case to the district court for determination of ancillary issues, including VALIC's entitlement to its attorneys' fees. River East Plaza had borrowed money against real estate on a fixed rate for 20 years, secured by a mortgage. Three years later, River East Plaza wanted to prepay the loan in order to sell the property, but it wanted to avoid the prepayment premium. River East Plaza sued VALIC, seeking declaratory judgment that a voluntary prepayment premium in a commercial note was an unenforceable penalty. The loan required a prepayment fee equal to either 1 percent of the proposed prepayment or the difference between the value of the remaining principal and interest from the date of prepayment to the maturity date discounted by the reinvestment rate, whichever was greater. The reinvestment rate was defined as the yield on a U.S. Treasury bond having a maturity date equal to the outstanding maturity date of the loan, known as a Treasury-flat prepayment fee. Bingham McCutchen LLP announces the arrival of Walter Stella as a partner in the San Francisco office. Stella joins Bingham's Labor and Employment Practice Group from Shook Hardy & Bacon. The firm also announces the appointment of Silicon Valley partner Wendy Lazerson as co-leader of the labor and employment group. Having focused almost exclusively on employment issues in his 15-year career, Stella has built a successful practice that focuses on both employment litigation and counseling. He has represented clients in a wide range of employment matters, including wage-and-hour class actions, harassment and discrimination suits, and trade-secret theft. Stella has developed an excellent reputation as an employment lawyer in the Bay Area legal community, representing a variety of local high-tech companies in employment counseling and litigation. "The addition of Walter further bolsters our strong labor and employment practice," said San Francisco partner David Balabanian, chair of Bingham's litigation area. "With 50 lawyers, our labor and employment group is already effective, and Walter will make it even stronger." Bingham's labor and employment group provides a full range of labor, employment and benefit services to large multinational companies as well as to small businesses. "Walter has proven himself to be an energetic and ambitious lawyer with a growing practice," added San Francisco Managing Partner Geoff Howard. "He is a good match for our office." For Stella, the attraction to Bingham was the caliber of its employment and labor practice, the group's synergy with other key practices as well as the firm's national and international reach and momentum. "I'm excited to add to Bingham's employment and litigation bench strength and see great opportunities with the firm's financial institutions and life sciences client base, as well as its Pacific Rim practice. It's a great time to join this firm on the move," said Stella, who is actively involved in the Northern California Association of Business Trial Lawyers. He is a 1990 graduate of Cornell Law School. In addition to Stella's arrival, Bingham announces the appointment of Silicon Valley partner Wendy Lazerson co-leader of the labor and employment group, replacing Los Angeles partner Debra Fischer, who assumed the role of deputy chair of Bingham's litigation area. In her more than 20-year career in employment law, Lazerson has advised employers on the particularities of California and federal law in all matters related to the workplace. She also has represented employers in class action and other litigation, arbitration and mediation of claims arising in the workplace. "I am delighted to assume a leadership role at this exciting time for Bingham's labor and employment group," Lazerson said. "Our group is in a growth mode. We are working on sophisticated mergers and acquisitions at one end of the spectrum, while being fully engaged in high-stakes class action work, and doing everything in between." Lazerson added that Stella is "an excellent addition" to the group and the San Francisco office. "In addition to being an entrepreneurial lawyer, he is dedicated to mentoring our associates, a quality we value. I look forward to continued growth and development of our talented team." Bingham McCutchen LLP announces the arrival of Walter Stella as a partner in the San Francisco office. Stella joins Bingham's Labor and Employment Practice Group from Shook Hardy & Bacon. The firm also announces the appointment of Silicon Valley partner Wendy Lazerson as co-leader of the labor and employment group. Having focused almost exclusively on employment issues in his 15-year career, Stella has built a successful practice that focuses on both employment litigation and counseling. He has represented clients in a wide range of employment matters, including wage-and-hour class actions, harassment and discrimination suits, and trade-secret theft. Stella has developed an excellent reputation as an employment lawyer in the Bay Area legal community, representing a variety of local high-tech companies in employment counseling and litigation. "The addition of Walter further bolsters our strong labor and employment practice," said San Francisco partner David Balabanian, chair of Bingham's litigation area. "With 50 lawyers, our labor and employment group is already effective, and Walter will make it even stronger." Bingham's labor and employment group provides a full range of labor, employment and benefit services to large multinational companies as well as to small businesses. "Walter has proven himself to be an energetic and ambitious lawyer with a growing practice," added San Francisco Managing Partner Geoff Howard. "He is a good match for our office." For Stella, the attraction to Bingham was the caliber of its employment and labor practice, the group's synergy with other key practices as well as the firm's national and international reach and momentum. "I'm excited to add to Bingham's employment and litigation bench strength and see great opportunities with the firm's financial institutions and life sciences client base, as well as its Pacific Rim practice. It's a great time to join this firm on the move," said Stella, who is actively involved in the Northern California Association of Business Trial Lawyers. He is a 1990 graduate of Cornell Law School. In addition to Stella's arrival, Bingham announces the appointment of Silicon Valley partner Wendy Lazerson co-leader of the labor and employment group, replacing Los Angeles partner Debra Fischer, who assumed the role of deputy chair of Bingham's litigation area. In her more than 20-year career in employment law, Lazerson has advised employers on the particularities of California and federal law in all matters related to the workplace. She also has represented employers in class action and other litigation, arbitration and mediation of claims arising in the workplace. "I am delighted to assume a leadership role at this exciting time for Bingham's labor and employment group," Lazerson said. "Our group is in a growth mode. We are working on sophisticated mergers and acquisitions at one end of the spectrum, while being fully engaged in high-stakes class action work, and doing everything in between." Lazerson added that Stella is "an excellent addition" to the group and the San Francisco office. "In addition to being an entrepreneurial lawyer, he is dedicated to mentoring our associates, a quality we value. I look forward to continued growth and development of our talented team." http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=192 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=192&page=34 Address : Goodwin Square, Phone : 860-522-5175, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1866 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1866&page=35 Address : 237 Buckingham StreetP.O. Box 261798, Phone : 860-525-3101, City : Hartford http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1127 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1127&page=36 Address : 90 State House Square, Phone : 860-275-8100, City : Hartford AV&H senior partner Steve Axinn was selected by Assistant Attorney General Joel Klein and formally retained by the United States Department of Justice, Antitrust Division, to lead the antitrust investigation of WorldCom's attempted acquisition of Sprint Corp. AV&H partner John Harkrider also was retained by the Justice Department. After an investigation of several months, Axinn signed the complaint that sought to enjoin WorldCom from acquiring Sprint. Valued at $129 billion, WorldCom/Sprint was the largest merger ever challenged in the United States. In the face of the government's suit, WorldCom and Sprint abandoned the proposed acquisition. AV&H senior partner Steve Axinn was selected by Assistant Attorney General Joel Klein and formally retained by the United States Department of Justice, Antitrust Division, to lead the antitrust investigation of WorldCom's attempted acquisition of Sprint Corp. AV&H partner John Harkrider also was retained by the Justice Department. After an investigation of several months, Axinn signed the complaint that sought to enjoin WorldCom from acquiring Sprint. Valued at $129 billion, WorldCom/Sprint was the largest merger ever challenged in the United States. In the face of the government's suit, WorldCom and Sprint abandoned the propose