http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_md.php Judged Law Firm en-us (C) 2006 Judged. All rights reserved. contact@judged.com(Judged) contact@judged.com Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:05:30 -0500 Law Firms http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_md.php 60 http://www.judged.com/images/xml_rss_feed.gif http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_md.php Address : 7477 Baltimore Annapolis BoulevardSuite 206 ,, Phone : 410-766-9115, City : Glen Burnie http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2504 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2504&page=47 Address : 315 High StreetSuite 202 ,, Phone : 410-810-1381, City : Chestertown http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=831 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=831&page=41 Address : 6305 Ivy LaneSuite 500 ,, Phone : 301-345-7700, City : Greenbelt http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2000 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2000&page=50 Address : P.O. Box 689, Phone : 301-572-7900, City : Greenbelt http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1802 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1802&page=49 Address : 7 St. Paul StreetSuite 600 ,, Phone : 410-539-5195, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=11 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=11&page=5 Address : 218 North Charles StreetSuite 400 ,, Phone : 410-727-7702, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=840 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=840&page=7 Address : 1 South Street20th Floor ,, Phone : 410-783-4000, City : Baltimore Attorneys Kelly Hughes Iverson and K. Nichole Nesbitt of Goodell, DeVries, Leech and Dann, LLP, achieved a jury verdict for the defendant in a breach of contract action tried in the Circuit Court for Charles County, Maryland on October 12, 2006. Ms. Iverson and Ms. Nesbitt successfully defended Shaheer Yousaf, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon, against a claim by his patient, Glenn Edwards, alleging that Dr. Yousaf had failed to complete a disability form that Mr. Edwards needed to obtain leave from his employer under the Family Medical Leave Act. Mr. Edwards sought upwards of $300,000 in lost income, claiming that Dr. Yousaf's failure to fill out the form caused the termination of Mr. Edwards's employment. Ms. Iverson and Ms. Nesbitt introduced evidence that Dr. Yousaf had completed several disability forms on behalf of Mr. Edwards but that there was no indication that Mr. Edwards had given Dr. Yousaf's office the particular form he needed to obtain leave under the Family Medical Leave Act. Thus, the defendant argued, there was no "contract" that would support the plaintiff's breach of contract claim. At the end of the three-day trial, the jury returned a defense verdict following deliberations lasting less than two hours, finding that Mr. Edwards had failed to establish a breach of any contract. Attorneys Kelly Hughes Iverson and K. Nichole Nesbitt of Goodell, DeVries, Leech and Dann, LLP, achieved a jury verdict for the defendant in a breach of contract action tried in the Circuit Court for Charles County, Maryland on October 12, 2006. Ms. Iverson and Ms. Nesbitt successfully defended Shaheer Yousaf, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon, against a claim by his patient, Glenn Edwards, alleging that Dr. Yousaf had failed to complete a disability form that Mr. Edwards needed to obtain leave from his employer under the Family Medical Leave Act. Mr. Edwards sought upwards of $300,000 in lost income, claiming that Dr. Yousaf's failure to fill out the form caused the termination of Mr. Edwards's employment. Ms. Iverson and Ms. Nesbitt introduced evidence that Dr. Yousaf had completed several disability forms on behalf of Mr. Edwards but that there was no indication that Mr. Edwards had given Dr. Yousaf's office the particular form he needed to obtain leave under the Family Medical Leave Act. Thus, the defendant argued, there was no "contract" that would support the plaintiff's breach of contract claim. At the end of the three-day trial, the jury returned a defense verdict following deliberations lasting less than two hours, finding that Mr. Edwards had failed to establish a breach of any contract. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=916 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=916&page=8 Address : 100 North Charles Street, Phone : 410-649-2000, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1388 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1388&page=9 Address : 111 South Calvert StreetSuite 1400 ,, Phone : 410-783-6300, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1759 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1759&page=10 Address : 25 South Charles StreetSuite 2115 ,, Phone : 410-727-6600, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2049 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2049&page=11 Address : 36 South Charles StreetSuite 2000 ,, Phone : 410-385-0202, City : Baltimore A partner in the firm†s real estate practice group, Arianne H. Monroe represents developers, lenders, tenants, and other entities in commercial real estate matters. She joins Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler after serving twenty years as corporate counsel to national real estate development companies. From 1987 through 2004, Ms. Monroe served The Rouse Company as in-house counsel for community development, office and retail leasing, and property management. From 2005 until 2007, she worked as Senior Portfolio Counsel for Federal Realty Investment Trust, where she was responsible for legal operations throughout its entire portfolio. In these positions, she was involved in all legal aspects of developing, leasing, owning, and managing a portfolio of retail, office, and mixed-use properties. Ms. Monroe†s services are distinguished by a comprehensive understanding of all the legal challenges faced by the firm†s real estate clients, and by the ability to counsel businesses in the development and management of all types of property. Scott W. Foley swf@shapirosher.com 410.385.4234 Scott W. Foley is a partner in Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler†s financial services group. He concentrates on bankruptcy litigation, creditors†rights, and commercial litigation. He regularly represents debtors, trustees, committees, and secured and unsecured creditors in Chapter 11 reorganizations and liquidations, and in complex Chapter 7 cases. He has successfully represented clients in the healthcare, retail, and real estate industries. His bankruptcy litigation experience includes hundreds of cases involving avoidance actions and disputes involving automatic stay relief. A skilled commercial litigator, Mr. Foley has also achieved favorable results in commercial disputes for a variety of clients. He regularly represents financial institutions, equipment lessors, and landlords before state and federal courts in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. In addition, he represents indigent Baltimoreans pro bono through Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Services. Mr. Foley joined Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler as an associate in 2000 and graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1997. Paula D. Miller pdm@shapirosher.com 410.385.4265 Paula D. Miller is a partner in the firm†s business law department. She represents publicly and privately held companies with respect to debt and equity securities offerings, private placements, mergers and acquisitions, and general business matters. She also advises clients on obligations arising under federal securities laws, including general disclosure requirements and periodic reporting obligations. Ms. Miller†s experience extends into many industries, including healthcare, software, and biotechnology. Her clients benefit from her background in business and economics. Prior to becoming an attorney, she worked for the U.S. Treasury Department as an economist in the area of corporate taxation. Additionally, she holds an MBA from Loyola College in Maryland. During law school at the University of Maryland, she served as a law clerk intern for the Honorable Diana G. Motz of the U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. She began her professional legal career at Hogan & Hartson as an associate in 2000 and joined Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler as an associate in 2005. Benjamin L. Polakoff blp@shapirosher.com 410.385.4284 Benjamin L. Polakoff is a partner in the firm†s real estate practice group. He represents clients in all aspects of real estate acquisition, financing, development, leasing, and disposition. He has wide-ranging experience representing developers, lenders, and investors in mixed-use, office, industrial, retail, single and multi-family subdivision, hospitality, sports, and entertainment projects. Mr. Polakoff has extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in retail, office, and industrial space and ground lease transactions. He also advises clients on general business matters, including business entity formation and governance issues. He joined Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler as an associate in 2000. Mr. Polakoff received his J.D. from The University of Maryland School of Law in 1998, and his B.A. in Philosophy from Emory University in 1995. A partner in the firm†s real estate practice group, Arianne H. Monroe represents developers, lenders, tenants, and other entities in commercial real estate matters. She joins Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler after serving twenty years as corporate counsel to national real estate development companies. From 1987 through 2004, Ms. Monroe served The Rouse Company as in-house counsel for community development, office and retail leasing, and property management. From 2005 until 2007, she worked as Senior Portfolio Counsel for Federal Realty Investment Trust, where she was responsible for legal operations throughout its entire portfolio. In these positions, she was involved in all legal aspects of developing, leasing, owning, and managing a portfolio of retail, office, and mixed-use properties. Ms. Monroe†s services are distinguished by a comprehensive understanding of all the legal challenges faced by the firm†s real estate clients, and by the ability to counsel businesses in the development and management of all types of property. Scott W. Foley swf@shapirosher.com 410.385.4234 Scott W. Foley is a partner in Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler†s financial services group. He concentrates on bankruptcy litigation, creditors†rights, and commercial litigation. He regularly represents debtors, trustees, committees, and secured and unsecured creditors in Chapter 11 reorganizations and liquidations, and in complex Chapter 7 cases. He has successfully represented clients in the healthcare, retail, and real estate industries. His bankruptcy litigation experience includes hundreds of cases involving avoidance actions and disputes involving automatic stay relief. A skilled commercial litigator, Mr. Foley has also achieved favorable results in commercial disputes for a variety of clients. He regularly represents financial institutions, equipment lessors, and landlords before state and federal courts in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. In addition, he represents indigent Baltimoreans pro bono through Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Services. Mr. Foley joined Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler as an associate in 2000 and graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1997. Paula D. Miller pdm@shapirosher.com 410.385.4265 Paula D. Miller is a partner in the firm†s business law department. She represents publicly and privately held companies with respect to debt and equity securities offerings, private placements, mergers and acquisitions, and general business matters. She also advises clients on obligations arising under federal securities laws, including general disclosure requirements and periodic reporting obligations. Ms. Miller†s experience extends into many industries, including healthcare, software, and biotechnology. Her clients benefit from her background in business and economics. Prior to becoming an attorney, she worked for the U.S. Treasury Department as an economist in the area of corporate taxation. Additionally, she holds an MBA from Loyola College in Maryland. During law school at the University of Maryland, she served as a law clerk intern for the Honorable Diana G. Motz of the U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. She began her professional legal career at Hogan & Hartson as an associate in 2000 and joined Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler as an associate in 2005. Benjamin L. Polakoff blp@shapirosher.com 410.385.4284 Benjamin L. Polakoff is a partner in the firm†s real estate practice group. He represents clients in all aspects of real estate acquisition, financing, development, leasing, and disposition. He has wide-ranging experience representing developers, lenders, and investors in mixed-use, office, industrial, retail, single and multi-family subdivision, hospitality, sports, and entertainment projects. Mr. Polakoff has extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in retail, office, and industrial space and ground lease transactions. He also advises clients on general business matters, including business entity formation and governance issues. He joined Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler as an associate in 2000. Mr. Polakoff received his J.D. from The University of Maryland School of Law in 1998, and his B.A. in Philosophy from Emory University in 1995. With the diminishing number of cases going to trial, how can you as a young attorney gain meaningful trial experience and guidance on ethical obligations and responsibilities? As a junior associate you may very well be engaged in exciting cases, but the cases usually settle. If they do go to trial, chances are you won†t be giving the opening statement, examining the witnesses, or making the tough strategic and ethical decisions in the courtroom. More senior colleagues will usually take the reins, leaving associates to learn merely by watching and listening. Yet watching and listening to your colleagues will only get you so far. To grow as a trial lawyer, you need to feel inspired. You need to observe outstanding attorneys at work, practice trial advocacy yourself, and benefit from peer critiques. If you could combine exposure to inspiring mentors, exemplary demonstrations, and role-play within a short period of time, you would have a recipe for a rewarding educational experience. With this in mind, the ABA Litigation Section Council under the leadership of Kim Askew, Section Chair, has established LITT, the Litigation Institute for Trial Training. LITT offers attorneys an innovative opportunity to gain confidence in the courtroom. Each year, LITT†s ‽boot camp” trial training program will give young lawyers from around the country a chance to hone their trial skills in the company of a star-studded faculty of renowned litigators, jurists, and professors. The rigorous curriculum will help you practice elements of the trial, gain hands-on experience, and connect with exemplary courtroom advocates. Condensed into two days, the program has been designed to fit busy lawyers†schedules, yet is rich enough in content to offer a formative and inspirational experience for attorneys in the early years of their legal careers. This first LITT program is scheduled for July 12 -13, 2007, at the DePaul University School of Law in Chicago. As the curriculum below indicates, the program is balanced with demonstrations, stimulating lectures and workshops. Imitation is a powerful tool, and if you grew up watching actors play lawyers on television and in movies you need real trial lawyers and judges as role models. The LITT program will inspire you to reach for the next level of experience in your career as a trial lawyer, help you gain confidence in the arena of the courtroom and enable you to answer important questions about trying real cases. For example, is cross examination all about impeachment? What are the techniques used by some the best trial lawyers in the country in opening statements and closing arguments? Do jury consultants really help? What about mock trials? How do you develop a theme for the case that resonates with the jury? When and how should you use Power Point presentations in the courtroom? Also, what are some of the ethical problems confronting young trial lawyers? Assume you are at the trial table assisting the partner trying the case, and you both realize that the witness is testifying to materially false information. The partner says: ‽Let†s let this go or we could lose this case.” Can you rely on the partner†s decision? If you do, you may be in violation of Rule 5.2 of the Rules of Professional Responsibility. This rule governs the responsibility of a subordinate lawyer. If you know that witness is lying, you cannot avoid your responsibility by relying on the partner to take action regarding the testimony. One of the most valuable aspects of the program will be the chance to become acquainted with esteemed trial attorneys, jurists and scholars from around the country. The faculty of July†s LITT program in Chicago will include Stephen D. Susman of Susman Godfrey in Houston, Judge Marvin E. Aspen of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, national jury consultant Jo Ellen Demetrius, and many other luminaries of the bench and bar. I†ve provided the program curriculum below. As the attendance will be limited to 40 people, I encourage you to contact me this month (pms@shapirosher.com) if interested in participating. With the diminishing number of cases going to trial, how can you as a young attorney gain meaningful trial experience and guidance on ethical obligations and responsibilities? As a junior associate you may very well be engaged in exciting cases, but the cases usually settle. If they do go to trial, chances are you won†t be giving the opening statement, examining the witnesses, or making the tough strategic and ethical decisions in the courtroom. More senior colleagues will usually take the reins, leaving associates to learn merely by watching and listening. Yet watching and listening to your colleagues will only get you so far. To grow as a trial lawyer, you need to feel inspired. You need to observe outstanding attorneys at work, practice trial advocacy yourself, and benefit from peer critiques. If you could combine exposure to inspiring mentors, exemplary demonstrations, and role-play within a short period of time, you would have a recipe for a rewarding educational experience. With this in mind, the ABA Litigation Section Council under the leadership of Kim Askew, Section Chair, has established LITT, the Litigation Institute for Trial Training. LITT offers attorneys an innovative opportunity to gain confidence in the courtroom. Each year, LITT†s ‽boot camp” trial training program will give young lawyers from around the country a chance to hone their trial skills in the company of a star-studded faculty of renowned litigators, jurists, and professors. The rigorous curriculum will help you practice elements of the trial, gain hands-on experience, and connect with exemplary courtroom advocates. Condensed into two days, the program has been designed to fit busy lawyers†schedules, yet is rich enough in content to offer a formative and inspirational experience for attorneys in the early years of their legal careers. This first LITT program is scheduled for July 12 -13, 2007, at the DePaul University School of Law in Chicago. As the curriculum below indicates, the program is balanced with demonstrations, stimulating lectures and workshops. Imitation is a powerful tool, and if you grew up watching actors play lawyers on television and in movies you need real trial lawyers and judges as role models. The LITT program will inspire you to reach for the next level of experience in your career as a trial lawyer, help you gain confidence in the arena of the courtroom and enable you to answer important questions about trying real cases. For example, is cross examination all about impeachment? What are the techniques used by some the best trial lawyers in the country in opening statements and closing arguments? Do jury consultants really help? What about mock trials? How do you develop a theme for the case that resonates with the jury? When and how should you use Power Point presentations in the courtroom? Also, what are some of the ethical problems confronting young trial lawyers? Assume you are at the trial table assisting the partner trying the case, and you both realize that the witness is testifying to materially false information. The partner says: ‽Let†s let this go or we could lose this case.” Can you rely on the partner†s decision? If you do, you may be in violation of Rule 5.2 of the Rules of Professional Responsibility. This rule governs the responsibility of a subordinate lawyer. If you know that witness is lying, you cannot avoid your responsibility by relying on the partner to take action regarding the testimony. One of the most valuable aspects of the program will be the chance to become acquainted with esteemed trial attorneys, jurists and scholars from around the country. The faculty of July†s LITT program in Chicago will include Stephen D. Susman of Susman Godfrey in Houston, Judge Marvin E. Aspen of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, national jury consultant Jo Ellen Demetrius, and many other luminaries of the bench and bar. I†ve provided the program curriculum below. As the attendance will be limited to 40 people, I encourage you to contact me this month (pms@shapirosher.com) if interested in participating. Trial lawyers who lack familiarity with great trials of the past may as well be trying cases by the seat of their pants. Surely one of the great trials in Western Civilization is the trial of William Penn in 1670. This is the same William Penn who received from King Charles II of England in 1681 a large land grant, ‽Penn†s Woods,” which Penn named after his father and subsequently became known as the state of Pennsylvania. Penn established the colony of Pennsylvania so that Quakers and others could enjoy religious freedom. But in the summer of 1670, when Penn was 26 years old and after he had become a Quaker, he was arrested in London on a charge of disturbing the King†s peace. The charge resulted from Penn preaching nonconformist religious views at an outdoor meeting in London at a time when the monarchy was aggressively suppressing religious dissent. At the outset of the trial in the Old Bailey, London†s central criminal court, Penn demanded to know under what law he was charged. It is reported that the following exchange occurred between Penn and the presiding magistrate, Mayor Sam Starling: Penn: I desire you would let me know by what law it is you prosecute me, and upon what law you ground my indictment. Trial lawyers who lack familiarity with great trials of the past may as well be trying cases by the seat of their pants. Surely one of the great trials in Western Civilization is the trial of William Penn in 1670. This is the same William Penn who received from King Charles II of England in 1681 a large land grant, ‽Penn†s Woods,” which Penn named after his father and subsequently became known as the state of Pennsylvania. Penn established the colony of Pennsylvania so that Quakers and others could enjoy religious freedom. But in the summer of 1670, when Penn was 26 years old and after he had become a Quaker, he was arrested in London on a charge of disturbing the King†s peace. The charge resulted from Penn preaching nonconformist religious views at an outdoor meeting in London at a time when the monarchy was aggressively suppressing religious dissent. At the outset of the trial in the Old Bailey, London†s central criminal court, Penn demanded to know under what law he was charged. It is reported that the following exchange occurred between Penn and the presiding magistrate, Mayor Sam Starling: Penn: I desire you would let me know by what law it is you prosecute me, and upon what law you ground my indictment. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2158 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2158&page=12 Address : 100 Light Street11th Floor ,, Phone : 410-752-2468, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2356 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2356&page=13 Address : 18th Floor300 East Lombard Street ,, Phone : 410-528-5600, City : Baltimore In a case that highlights the issue of what constitutes compensable work time under the Fair Labor Standards Act (‽FLSA”), a federal appeals court has ruled that an employee mandated by her employer to attend counseling sessions after working hours was entitled to compensation for her time spent attending and traveling to and from the sessions. The employee, an emergency dispatcher for the City of Aurora, Illinois, attended weekly counseling sessions to deal with work-related stress. Each session lasted one hour and required the employee to travel two hours back and forth. The time was in addition to her 40-hour a week schedule as a 911 operator, but was not treated as compensable work time by the City of Aurora. The City ordered the employee to attend these sessions â€" or face losing her job â€" because the employee had previously expressed frustrations with her job and, on one occasion, left work without permission. The City rejected the employee†s offer to receive counseling from her own therapist, and instead, required her to get counseling from a City-approved physician. Additionally, the City, which was short-staffed on dispatchers, paid 90% of the total cost of the employee†s treatment. Affirming the district court†s decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit found that the time spent attending and traveling to and from the employer-mandated sessions was compensable work time. Citing the federal regulations implementing the FLSA, the appeals court noted that, as a general rule, an employee must be paid for all time spent in physical or mental exertion, controlled and required by the employer, and pursued necessarily and primarily for the benefit of the employer. In this case, the appeals court found that the counseling sessions were primarily for the benefit of the City because they were a mandatory condition of continued employment and were designed by the City to keep the employee working as a dispatcher and to improve her job performance and interaction with co-workers. The court found that imposing mandatory sessions at a time when the City was short-staffed for dispatchers created a presumption that the sessions were primarily for the benefit of the employer. The court also found it significant that the City refused the employee†s request to see her own therapist and that it paid 90% of the sessions†costs. Although the court cautioned that its holding was a narrow one, specific to the facts of this particular case, this case raises the issue of whether an employer may be obliged to pay any employee it requires to participate in any Employee Assistance Program (‽EAP”) as a condition of employment. While we are not aware of any other federal court decisions that have specifically addressed this issue, we anticipate that courts would conduct a similar analysis to determine the primary beneficiary of the sessions. Moreover, the court†s approach here was consistent with opinion letters issued by the Department of Labor, holding that an employee must be compensated for time spent undergoing physical or mental examinations that an employer requires as a condition of continued employment. To avoid being required to compensate employees for time spent in employer-mandated counseling sessions, employers should design any counseling program or mandated EAP primarily for the benefit of the employee. This may include, among other things, allowing the employee to select his or her own provider and develop his or her own schedule for counseling sessions and avoiding the appearance that the employer†s need to retain the employee is the motivating factor in requiring the employee to attend the sessions. Otherwise, time spent participating in such EAPs may be considered compensable time under the FLSA, subject to the minimum wage and overtime rules In a case that highlights the issue of what constitutes compensable work time under the Fair Labor Standards Act (‽FLSA”), a federal appeals court has ruled that an employee mandated by her employer to attend counseling sessions after working hours was entitled to compensation for her time spent attending and traveling to and from the sessions. The employee, an emergency dispatcher for the City of Aurora, Illinois, attended weekly counseling sessions to deal with work-related stress. Each session lasted one hour and required the employee to travel two hours back and forth. The time was in addition to her 40-hour a week schedule as a 911 operator, but was not treated as compensable work time by the City of Aurora. The City ordered the employee to attend these sessions â€" or face losing her job â€" because the employee had previously expressed frustrations with her job and, on one occasion, left work without permission. The City rejected the employee†s offer to receive counseling from her own therapist, and instead, required her to get counseling from a City-approved physician. Additionally, the City, which was short-staffed on dispatchers, paid 90% of the total cost of the employee†s treatment. Affirming the district court†s decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit found that the time spent attending and traveling to and from the employer-mandated sessions was compensable work time. Citing the federal regulations implementing the FLSA, the appeals court noted that, as a general rule, an employee must be paid for all time spent in physical or mental exertion, controlled and required by the employer, and pursued necessarily and primarily for the benefit of the employer. In this case, the appeals court found that the counseling sessions were primarily for the benefit of the City because they were a mandatory condition of continued employment and were designed by the City to keep the employee working as a dispatcher and to improve her job performance and interaction with co-workers. The court found that imposing mandatory sessions at a time when the City was short-staffed for dispatchers created a presumption that the sessions were primarily for the benefit of the employer. The court also found it significant that the City refused the employee†s request to see her own therapist and that it paid 90% of the sessions†costs. Although the court cautioned that its holding was a narrow one, specific to the facts of this particular case, this case raises the issue of whether an employer may be obliged to pay any employee it requires to participate in any Employee Assistance Program (‽EAP”) as a condition of employment. While we are not aware of any other federal court decisions that have specifically addressed this issue, we anticipate that courts would conduct a similar analysis to determine the primary beneficiary of the sessions. Moreover, the court†s approach here was consistent with opinion letters issued by the Department of Labor, holding that an employee must be compensated for time spent undergoing physical or mental examinations that an employer requires as a condition of continued employment. To avoid being required to compensate employees for time spent in employer-mandated counseling sessions, employers should design any counseling program or mandated EAP primarily for the benefit of the employee. This may include, among other things, allowing the employee to select his or her own provider and develop his or her own schedule for counseling sessions and avoiding the appearance that the employer†s need to retain the employee is the motivating factor in requiring the employee to attend the sessions. Otherwise, time spent participating in such EAPs may be considered compensable time under the FLSA, subject to the minimum wage and overtime rules http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=109 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=109&page=14 Address : 111 South Calvert Street, Phone : 410-659-2700, City : Baltimore Hogan & Hartson LLP announced today that Joseph M. Hernandez has joined the firm†s Miami office and real estate practice as a partner. In his new role, Hernandez will significantly broaden the firm†s domestic and international real estate capabilities. Hernandez, who was previously a corporate and real estate banker, represents real estate developers in all phases of complex commercial real estate transactions, including the negotiation, documentation, and closing of the acquisition and sale, development, and financing of commercial real estate. He represents both financial institutions and borrowers obtaining acquisition and construction financing, and has handled the resolution of complex title issues. In addition, Hernandez has significant experience in documenting and negotiating real estate joint ventures and private placements to raise capital for real estate projects. Hernandez has represented several U.S. and foreign institutional investors in the acquisition, development, and financing of commercial real estate projects throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. He has represented several major financial institutions extending financing for commercial real estate projects, as well as non-real estate related secured loan facilities. ‽The breadth of Joe†s experience in real estate transactional work will be a great asset to the firm and the Miami office. We are delighted to welcome him to Hogan & Hartson as we continue to expand our capabilities in that area,” said Parker Thomson, Managing Partner of Hogan & Hartson†s Miami office. ‽I am very excited to join such a dynamic and skilled group of lawyers in the Miami office. I look forward to growing my domestic and international real estate practice at Hogan & Hartson,” said Hernandez, commenting on his move. Prior to joining Hogan & Hartson, Hernandez was a partner in the real estate practice at Greenberg Traurig. Hernandez, who is fluent in Spanish, was formerly the Chairman of the board of directors of Junior Achievement of Greater Miami and now serves as a board member. He also is a member of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce and the United Way†s Young Leaders Society. In addition, Hernandez teaches a real estate transaction workshop at the University of Miami Law School. Hernandez received his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law, cum laude, and his bachelor†s degree from the University of Florida. Hogan & Hartson LLP announced today that Joseph M. Hernandez has joined the firm†s Miami office and real estate practice as a partner. In his new role, Hernandez will significantly broaden the firm†s domestic and international real estate capabilities. Hernandez, who was previously a corporate and real estate banker, represents real estate developers in all phases of complex commercial real estate transactions, including the negotiation, documentation, and closing of the acquisition and sale, development, and financing of commercial real estate. He represents both financial institutions and borrowers obtaining acquisition and construction financing, and has handled the resolution of complex title issues. In addition, Hernandez has significant experience in documenting and negotiating real estate joint ventures and private placements to raise capital for real estate projects. Hernandez has represented several U.S. and foreign institutional investors in the acquisition, development, and financing of commercial real estate projects throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. He has represented several major financial institutions extending financing for commercial real estate projects, as well as non-real estate related secured loan facilities. ‽The breadth of Joe†s experience in real estate transactional work will be a great asset to the firm and the Miami office. We are delighted to welcome him to Hogan & Hartson as we continue to expand our capabilities in that area,” said Parker Thomson, Managing Partner of Hogan & Hartson†s Miami office. ‽I am very excited to join such a dynamic and skilled group of lawyers in the Miami office. I look forward to growing my domestic and international real estate practice at Hogan & Hartson,” said Hernandez, commenting on his move. Prior to joining Hogan & Hartson, Hernandez was a partner in the real estate practice at Greenberg Traurig. Hernandez, who is fluent in Spanish, was formerly the Chairman of the board of directors of Junior Achievement of Greater Miami and now serves as a board member. He also is a member of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce and the United Way†s Young Leaders Society. In addition, Hernandez teaches a real estate transaction workshop at the University of Miami Law School. Hernandez received his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law, cum laude, and his bachelor†s degree from the University of Florida. International law firm Hogan & Hartson has been appointed by Hi-Media group to advise on its acquisition of Fotolog Inc. Founded in 1996, Web publishing, online advertising, and commerce firm Hi-Media is the leader in interactive marketing in France, and fifth largest in Europe. On August 17, Hi-Media signed an agreement to buy Fotolog Inc. The company has more than 15 million visitors a month to its photo sharing site Fotolog.com. This transaction will bring together one of the largest global audiences with a specialist in online revenue generation. The deal is subject to the approval of Hi-Media†s shareholders, who will assemble for an extraordinary general meeting. If they agree, the deal should happen by the end of November. ‽We are delighted to be able to advise Hi-Media Group on this important transaction, which is the first one for Hi-Media Group in the United States. Its successful completion necessitated the involvement of teams from the Paris, London, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and New York offices of Hogan & Hartson,” comments Jean-Marc Franceschi, lead partner on the deal at Hogan & Hartson†s Paris office. For this transaction, Hi-Media Group is also being advised by Oddo Corporate Finance, while Gunderson Dettmer and UBS are advising Fotolog Inc. International law firm Hogan & Hartson has been appointed by Hi-Media group to advise on its acquisition of Fotolog Inc. Founded in 1996, Web publishing, online advertising, and commerce firm Hi-Media is the leader in interactive marketing in France, and fifth largest in Europe. On August 17, Hi-Media signed an agreement to buy Fotolog Inc. The company has more than 15 million visitors a month to its photo sharing site Fotolog.com. This transaction will bring together one of the largest global audiences with a specialist in online revenue generation. The deal is subject to the approval of Hi-Media†s shareholders, who will assemble for an extraordinary general meeting. If they agree, the deal should happen by the end of November. ‽We are delighted to be able to advise Hi-Media Group on this important transaction, which is the first one for Hi-Media Group in the United States. Its successful completion necessitated the involvement of teams from the Paris, London, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and New York offices of Hogan & Hartson,” comments Jean-Marc Franceschi, lead partner on the deal at Hogan & Hartson†s Paris office. For this transaction, Hi-Media Group is also being advised by Oddo Corporate Finance, while Gunderson Dettmer and UBS are advising Fotolog Inc. Hogan & Hartson LLP announced today that Mike Druckman has joined the firm†s Washington, D.C. office as a partner. Druckman will be a member of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice group, which is part of the firm†s food, drug, medical device, and agriculture practice. At Hogan & Hartson, he will be joining nine other former lawyers from the Food and Drug Administration's Office of the Chief Counsel (OCC) who are collectively part of the broader practice. For the past six years, Druckman has been a member of the FDA†s Office of the Chief Counsel (OCC), first as an associate chief counsel for enforcement, and then as an associate chief counsel for biologics. He served as a principal advisor to the FDA†s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) on legal and regulatory issues. Druckman also served as co-team leader for the OCC†s Biologics Team and as a member of the Pandemic Flu and Disclosure Teams. Prior to joining the OCC, Druckman was a litigation partner at Patton Boggs LLP, where he focused his practice on complex civil litigation and white collar criminal defense. Druckman will focus his practice on all aspects of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) product approval pathways; enforcement and compliance; and advertising and promotion. In addition to broad counseling and litigation experience in those areas, he also has particular experience with vaccines, counterterrorism products and public health crisis preparedness, post-approval safety, blood components and derivatives, Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) issues, protection of trade secrets and confidential information, and investigational product and clinical trial issues. As part of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice group, Druckman will be joining seven partners and 11 counsel and associates dedicated to pharmaceutical and biotechnology issues. ‽We are very proud to welcome Mike to the firm,” said Bob Brady, head of Hogan & Hartson's pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice group. ‽Mike†s impressive pharmaceutical and biotechnology-related work for the FDA, combined with his years of litigation experience, make him a tremendous asset to our firm and our clients.” ‽I am excited to be a part of this firm that has global regulatory experience and is highly-regarded for its work in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries,” said Druckman. ‽I am eager to build my practice alongside the talented lawyers at the firm.” Druckman received his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and his bachelor†s degree from Harvard College. Following law school, he served as a law clerk to The Honorable John H. Pratt of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Hogan & Hartson LLP announced today that Mike Druckman has joined the firm†s Washington, D.C. office as a partner. Druckman will be a member of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice group, which is part of the firm†s food, drug, medical device, and agriculture practice. At Hogan & Hartson, he will be joining nine other former lawyers from the Food and Drug Administration's Office of the Chief Counsel (OCC) who are collectively part of the broader practice. For the past six years, Druckman has been a member of the FDA†s Office of the Chief Counsel (OCC), first as an associate chief counsel for enforcement, and then as an associate chief counsel for biologics. He served as a principal advisor to the FDA†s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) on legal and regulatory issues. Druckman also served as co-team leader for the OCC†s Biologics Team and as a member of the Pandemic Flu and Disclosure Teams. Prior to joining the OCC, Druckman was a litigation partner at Patton Boggs LLP, where he focused his practice on complex civil litigation and white collar criminal defense. Druckman will focus his practice on all aspects of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) product approval pathways; enforcement and compliance; and advertising and promotion. In addition to broad counseling and litigation experience in those areas, he also has particular experience with vaccines, counterterrorism products and public health crisis preparedness, post-approval safety, blood components and derivatives, Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) issues, protection of trade secrets and confidential information, and investigational product and clinical trial issues. As part of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice group, Druckman will be joining seven partners and 11 counsel and associates dedicated to pharmaceutical and biotechnology issues. ‽We are very proud to welcome Mike to the firm,” said Bob Brady, head of Hogan & Hartson's pharmaceutical and biotechnology practice group. ‽Mike†s impressive pharmaceutical and biotechnology-related work for the FDA, combined with his years of litigation experience, make him a tremendous asset to our firm and our clients.” ‽I am excited to be a part of this firm that has global regulatory experience and is highly-regarded for its work in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries,” said Druckman. ‽I am eager to build my practice alongside the talented lawyers at the firm.” Druckman received his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and his bachelor†s degree from Harvard College. Following law school, he served as a law clerk to The Honorable John H. Pratt of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1105 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1105&page=15 Address : 111 South Calvert StreetSuite 2700 ,, Phone : 410-385-5343, City : Baltimore Jackson & Campbell partnered with longtime friend WETA for its membership pledge drive on August 5, 2007. David Cox, Co-Chair of J&C†s Real Property and Asset Management Group, and the firm†s Associates volunteered to answer telephones during the featured program, ‽Armenian Genocide.” With J&C†s help, WETA raised $25,225 in membership pledges. Jackson & Campbell has a long history with WETA. Edmund Campbell, a renowned lawyer and one of the firm†s founders is the late husband of WETA†s late founder, Elizabeth Campbell. Mrs. Campbell†s life was featured in WETA†s sponsored film ‽Elizabeth Campbell: A Passion To Teach,” which was underwritten by the firm. ‽We are proud to be connected with one of D.C.†s finest television and radio stations,” said John Matteo, Chair of J&C†s Business Law Practice Group. ‽Volunteering at WETA†s pledge drive is a great way for our firm to continue to serve the tradition established by Mr. Campbell by giving back to the community. We are proud to support WETA†s efforts to bring such fine programming to the D.C. region.” About WETA WETA's mission is to produce and broadcast programs of intellectual integrity and cultural merit that recognize viewers' and listeners' intelligence, curiosity and interest n the world around them. As an independent and not-for-profit public broadcaster iand producer, WETA provides its viewers and listeners with quality, compelling programs and serves a broad community with educational projects and Web-based initiatives. Jackson & Campbell partnered with longtime friend WETA for its membership pledge drive on August 5, 2007. David Cox, Co-Chair of J&C†s Real Property and Asset Management Group, and the firm†s Associates volunteered to answer telephones during the featured program, ‽Armenian Genocide.” With J&C†s help, WETA raised $25,225 in membership pledges. Jackson & Campbell has a long history with WETA. Edmund Campbell, a renowned lawyer and one of the firm†s founders is the late husband of WETA†s late founder, Elizabeth Campbell. Mrs. Campbell†s life was featured in WETA†s sponsored film ‽Elizabeth Campbell: A Passion To Teach,” which was underwritten by the firm. ‽We are proud to be connected with one of D.C.†s finest television and radio stations,” said John Matteo, Chair of J&C†s Business Law Practice Group. ‽Volunteering at WETA†s pledge drive is a great way for our firm to continue to serve the tradition established by Mr. Campbell by giving back to the community. We are proud to support WETA†s efforts to bring such fine programming to the D.C. region.” About WETA WETA's mission is to produce and broadcast programs of intellectual integrity and cultural merit that recognize viewers' and listeners' intelligence, curiosity and interest n the world around them. As an independent and not-for-profit public broadcaster iand producer, WETA provides its viewers and listeners with quality, compelling programs and serves a broad community with educational projects and Web-based initiatives. John Matteo, Chair of the Business Law Practice Group at the law firm of Jackson & Campbell, P.C. in Washington, D.C., will be recognized for his leadership and dedication to the UWNCA Montgomery Regional Council. Having served as its Chairman during 2006-07, John has facilitated UWNCA†s ability to respond to the community needs of the greater Washington area. John will be rewarded for his contributions to the greater Washington community at the UWNCA Montgomery Regional Council†s Annual Meeting and Reception on July 26, 2007 at the Chevy Chase Bank Atrium in Bethesda, MD. The meeting will conclude with the ‽passing of the torch” from John to the incoming Chairman of the 2007-08 UWNCA Montgomery Regional Council, Michael Finnegan, Senior Vice President of Bank of America in Bethesda, MD. About UWNCA The UWNCA is the largest non-governmental health and human services fund provider in the Washington metro area, bringing together people and resources to improve lives for more than 30 years. Working with community organizations, local governments and businesses, UWNCA†s eight regional councils â€" the District of Columbia, Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax-Falls Church; and Loudoun, Montgomery, Prince George†s and Prince William counties â€" respond to critical community needs. John Matteo, Chair of the Business Law Practice Group at the law firm of Jackson & Campbell, P.C. in Washington, D.C., will be recognized for his leadership and dedication to the UWNCA Montgomery Regional Council. Having served as its Chairman during 2006-07, John has facilitated UWNCA†s ability to respond to the community needs of the greater Washington area. John will be rewarded for his contributions to the greater Washington community at the UWNCA Montgomery Regional Council†s Annual Meeting and Reception on July 26, 2007 at the Chevy Chase Bank Atrium in Bethesda, MD. The meeting will conclude with the ‽passing of the torch” from John to the incoming Chairman of the 2007-08 UWNCA Montgomery Regional Council, Michael Finnegan, Senior Vice President of Bank of America in Bethesda, MD. About UWNCA The UWNCA is the largest non-governmental health and human services fund provider in the Washington metro area, bringing together people and resources to improve lives for more than 30 years. Working with community organizations, local governments and businesses, UWNCA†s eight regional councils â€" the District of Columbia, Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax-Falls Church; and Loudoun, Montgomery, Prince George†s and Prince William counties â€" respond to critical community needs. Jackson & Campbell, PC is pleased to announce that the Arlington County Board and WETA will dedicate ‽Campbell Avenue” in Shirlington Virginia, adjacent to the WETA building, on June 2, 2007 at 1:00 pm. Campbell Avenue commemorates the lives and accomplishments of Edmund and Elizabeth Campbell. It will replace what currently is 28th Street South between Shirlington Circle and South Stafford Street, and South Stafford Street between 28th Street , South and South Arlington Mill Drive. For more information, visit www.weta.org. Edmund D. Campbell is recognized for his dedication to the Arlington community for many years, having served as the Arlington County Board†s Chairman twice. He was also a leading lawyer in the D.C. region, most noted for his efforts in mobilizing forces which eventually led to school desegregation and equal working rights in Virginia. Mr. Campbell was widely respected as a Supreme Court advocate, having led the efforts to defeat ‽Massive Resistance” to integration; to assure ‽one man, one vote,” and in other areas, such as the rights of conscientious objectors. Mr. Campbell died on December 7, 1995. Elizabeth Campbell is recognized for her service to the Arlington community by serving as Chairman for three terms on the Arlington school board. She supported education accessible for all Virginia residents. She later founded WETA, the Washington area†s public television station, spearheading its national success until her death on January 9, 2004 Jackson & Campbell, PC is pleased to announce that the Arlington County Board and WETA will dedicate ‽Campbell Avenue” in Shirlington Virginia, adjacent to the WETA building, on June 2, 2007 at 1:00 pm. Campbell Avenue commemorates the lives and accomplishments of Edmund and Elizabeth Campbell. It will replace what currently is 28th Street South between Shirlington Circle and South Stafford Street, and South Stafford Street between 28th Street , South and South Arlington Mill Drive. For more information, visit www.weta.org. Edmund D. Campbell is recognized for his dedication to the Arlington community for many years, having served as the Arlington County Board†s Chairman twice. He was also a leading lawyer in the D.C. region, most noted for his efforts in mobilizing forces which eventually led to school desegregation and equal working rights in Virginia. Mr. Campbell was widely respected as a Supreme Court advocate, having led the efforts to defeat ‽Massive Resistance” to integration; to assure ‽one man, one vote,” and in other areas, such as the rights of conscientious objectors. Mr. Campbell died on December 7, 1995. Elizabeth Campbell is recognized for her service to the Arlington community by serving as Chairman for three terms on the Arlington school board. She supported education accessible for all Virginia residents. She later founded WETA, the Washington area†s public television station, spearheading its national success until her death on January 9, 2004 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1162 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1162&page=16 Address : 7 Saint Paul StreetSuite 1000 ,, Phone : 410-659-4400, City : Baltimore The Department of Justice (the ‽DOJ”) recently released Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (‽FCPA”) guidance provided to a U.S. company that is also an ‽issuer”, as defined under Section 30A of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (Opinion Procedure Release No. 07-01). The question centered on the FCPA affirmative defense regarding payments of reasonable and bona fide expenses on behalf of foreign officials directly related to the promotion, demonstration, or explanation of products or services. Although DOJ Opinion Procedures apply only to the parties requesting guidance, Opinion Procedure Release No. 07-01 provides insight as to the types of parameters an issuer or U.S. entity with global activities or aspirations might consider when crafting or revising its marketing/promotion expenditure policies and procedures. Opinion Procedure Release No. 07-01 involved the payment of expenses for a six-person delegation of officials from an Asian country who were to come to the U.S. to tour one of the issuer†s facilities. The purpose of the tour was to enable the foreign officials to familiarize themselves with the requestor†s operations and credibility: * The issuer did not have operations in the foreign country or with the foreign government. * The visit was to last for 4 days. * Only domestic travel, lodging and meal expenses were to be covered; travel was limited to economy class. The foreign government would pay for international travel. * No payment of expenses for any spouses, family or other guests of the foreign officials. * No payments for activities other than the meals and receptions related to meetings, speakers or events planned by the issuer. * Payments were only to be made directly to the service providers relating to the visit; no payments were to be made to the foreign government or its delegates. * Souvenirs provided to the foreign officials would be of nominal value and would feature the name of the issuer. * All costs and expenses relating to the promotional visit would be accurately recorded in the issuer†s books and records. * The issuer obtained written assurance from an established law firm with offices in both the foreign country and the U.S. that the visit and the payment of expenses, as described, would not be contrary to the laws of the foreign country. Regarding the final point, since the UN Convention Against Corruption entered into force on December 14, 2005 (the ‽UN Convention”), it is recommended that U.S. companies, similar to the issuer in this instance, confirm that the proposed activities not only comply with U.S. law, but also the laws of the foreign country in question. With 140 signatories and 95 countries having already ratified the UN Convention, it not only has broad applicability, but requires parties to implement anti-corruption policies and practices in their countries. Such anti-corruption measures implemented by UN Convention parties may differ from U.S. laws in scope. The Department of Justice (the ‽DOJ”) recently released Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (‽FCPA”) guidance provided to a U.S. company that is also an ‽issuer”, as defined under Section 30A of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (Opinion Procedure Release No. 07-01). The question centered on the FCPA affirmative defense regarding payments of reasonable and bona fide expenses on behalf of foreign officials directly related to the promotion, demonstration, or explanation of products or services. Although DOJ Opinion Procedures apply only to the parties requesting guidance, Opinion Procedure Release No. 07-01 provides insight as to the types of parameters an issuer or U.S. entity with global activities or aspirations might consider when crafting or revising its marketing/promotion expenditure policies and procedures. Opinion Procedure Release No. 07-01 involved the payment of expenses for a six-person delegation of officials from an Asian country who were to come to the U.S. to tour one of the issuer†s facilities. The purpose of the tour was to enable the foreign officials to familiarize themselves with the requestor†s operations and credibility: * The issuer did not have operations in the foreign country or with the foreign government. * The visit was to last for 4 days. * Only domestic travel, lodging and meal expenses were to be covered; travel was limited to economy class. The foreign government would pay for international travel. * No payment of expenses for any spouses, family or other guests of the foreign officials. * No payments for activities other than the meals and receptions related to meetings, speakers or events planned by the issuer. * Payments were only to be made directly to the service providers relating to the visit; no payments were to be made to the foreign government or its delegates. * Souvenirs provided to the foreign officials would be of nominal value and would feature the name of the issuer. * All costs and expenses relating to the promotional visit would be accurately recorded in the issuer†s books and records. * The issuer obtained written assurance from an established law firm with offices in both the foreign country and the U.S. that the visit and the payment of expenses, as described, would not be contrary to the laws of the foreign country. Regarding the final point, since the UN Convention Against Corruption entered into force on December 14, 2005 (the ‽UN Convention”), it is recommended that U.S. companies, similar to the issuer in this instance, confirm that the proposed activities not only comply with U.S. law, but also the laws of the foreign country in question. With 140 signatories and 95 countries having already ratified the UN Convention, it not only has broad applicability, but requires parties to implement anti-corruption policies and practices in their countries. Such anti-corruption measures implemented by UN Convention parties may differ from U.S. laws in scope. The Washington Business Journal recognized McGuireWoods' Partner Stephen Robinson as the ‽Top Washington Lawyer” in employment litigation in its fourth annual event recognizing the top lawyers in the metropolitan Washington area. Finalists in 15 legal categories were selected from a pool of almost 500 nominations. Based in McLean, Va. (Tysons Corner), Robinson practices labor and employment law with an emphasis on litigation. He serves as a resource to McGuireWoods' labor and employment clients and his firm colleagues, advising on all aspects of employment and labor relations matters. He has litigated cases involving discrimination, wrongful discharge, claims for pension and profit sharing benefits, AIDS, defamation, negligent hiring and supervision, First Amendment issues, and covenants not to compete. He also represents approximately 40 professional athletes. In addition to his latest honor, he was named a 2007 "Washington, D.C. and Virginia Super Lawyer" by Law & Politics magazine; one of "Virginia's Legal Elite" by Virginia Business magazine; one of "America's Leading Lawyers for Business Law" by Chambers USA; and he has been designated as among the ‽Best Lawyers in America" by Woodward/White, Inc. every year since 2003. The Washington Business Journal recognized McGuireWoods' Partner Stephen Robinson as the ‽Top Washington Lawyer” in employment litigation in its fourth annual event recognizing the top lawyers in the metropolitan Washington area. Finalists in 15 legal categories were selected from a pool of almost 500 nominations. Based in McLean, Va. (Tysons Corner), Robinson practices labor and employment law with an emphasis on litigation. He serves as a resource to McGuireWoods' labor and employment clients and his firm colleagues, advising on all aspects of employment and labor relations matters. He has litigated cases involving discrimination, wrongful discharge, claims for pension and profit sharing benefits, AIDS, defamation, negligent hiring and supervision, First Amendment issues, and covenants not to compete. He also represents approximately 40 professional athletes. In addition to his latest honor, he was named a 2007 "Washington, D.C. and Virginia Super Lawyer" by Law & Politics magazine; one of "Virginia's Legal Elite" by Virginia Business magazine; one of "America's Leading Lawyers for Business Law" by Chambers USA; and he has been designated as among the ‽Best Lawyers in America" by Woodward/White, Inc. every year since 2003. McGuireWoods, Bank of America and the Baltimore Orioles were primary sponsors for the second annual ‽Brian's Baseball Bash” fundraiser benefiting the University of Maryland Hospital for Children. The event was hosted by All-Star Orioles 2nd baseman Brian Roberts and was held on August 26th at the ESPN Zone in Baltimore. Over 600 people were in attendance at this year†s sold-out event, including many McGuireWoods attorneys, staff, clients and their respective guests. In addition, many of Brian†s fellow teammates, management and veteran players came out to support the cause. Partner Jennifer Stearman, the event co-chair, received special recognition from host Brian Roberts and hospital officials for McGuireWoods†participation and its commitment to the Hospital for Children. Nearly $200,000 was raised by the event to support programs at the Hospital for Children. ‽Under Jen Stearman†s leadership, the 2007 Bash was a smashing success. I'm proud to have the firm associated with the University of Maryland Hospital for Children,” concluded Alan Cason, managing partner of the Baltimore office. McGuireWoods, Bank of America and the Baltimore Orioles were primary sponsors for the second annual ‽Brian's Baseball Bash” fundraiser benefiting the University of Maryland Hospital for Children. The event was hosted by All-Star Orioles 2nd baseman Brian Roberts and was held on August 26th at the ESPN Zone in Baltimore. Over 600 people were in attendance at this year†s sold-out event, including many McGuireWoods attorneys, staff, clients and their respective guests. In addition, many of Brian†s fellow teammates, management and veteran players came out to support the cause. Partner Jennifer Stearman, the event co-chair, received special recognition from host Brian Roberts and hospital officials for McGuireWoods†participation and its commitment to the Hospital for Children. Nearly $200,000 was raised by the event to support programs at the Hospital for Children. ‽Under Jen Stearman†s leadership, the 2007 Bash was a smashing success. I'm proud to have the firm associated with the University of Maryland Hospital for Children,” concluded Alan Cason, managing partner of the Baltimore office. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1594 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1594&page=17 Address : 500 East Pratt StreetSuite 900 ,, Phone : 410-332-8600, City : Baltimore Robert A. Spar, a Partner and Co-Chair of the Life Sciences Transactions and Strategic Alliances group, was quoted in this article about the current and future state of the life sciences law field in Maryland, a rapidly forming "biotech capital." ‽We think the future in Baltimore is going to be biotech in the next three to five years,” Mr. Spar said. ‽We do actively recruit lateral attorneys with life science experience and we pull different expertise from around the firm.” Robert A. Spar, a Partner and Co-Chair of the Life Sciences Transactions and Strategic Alliances group, was quoted in this article about the current and future state of the life sciences law field in Maryland, a rapidly forming "biotech capital." ‽We think the future in Baltimore is going to be biotech in the next three to five years,” Mr. Spar said. ‽We do actively recruit lateral attorneys with life science experience and we pull different expertise from around the firm.” Timothy E. Hoeffner, Partner, Vice Chair of the Litigation Department and Co-Chair of the Corporate Governance Practice Group, and Cathleen M. Devlin, a Partner in the Litigation Department and member of the Firm's Corporate Governance Practice Group, are quoted extensively in this front-page news article in The Legal Intelligencer about independent examiners and their value in facilitating internal investigations in anticipation of or in the wake of SEC investigations, both in the subprime lending arena and otherwise across corporate America. Mr. Hoeffner and Ms. Devlin served as counsel to the independent examiner of Time Warner Inc. in an SEC-mandated investigation of accounting for advertising revenues, which resulted in the restatement of nearly $600 million in revenues by the company dating back to 2000. Timothy E. Hoeffner, Partner, Vice Chair of the Litigation Department and Co-Chair of the Corporate Governance Practice Group, and Cathleen M. Devlin, a Partner in the Litigation Department and member of the Firm's Corporate Governance Practice Group, are quoted extensively in this front-page news article in The Legal Intelligencer about independent examiners and their value in facilitating internal investigations in anticipation of or in the wake of SEC investigations, both in the subprime lending arena and otherwise across corporate America. Mr. Hoeffner and Ms. Devlin served as counsel to the independent examiner of Time Warner Inc. in an SEC-mandated investigation of accounting for advertising revenues, which resulted in the restatement of nearly $600 million in revenues by the company dating back to 2000. Norman L. Pernick, Chair of Saul Ewing LLPs Bankruptcy and Restructuring Department, will oversee the Downtown Wilmington Main Street Program, a community-driven renewal plan officially launched May 30. Plans call for the long term continued revitalization of Wilmingtons downtown business district, which is approximately 70 square blocks. As Chair of the Downtown Wilmington Main Street Board of Directors, Mr. Pernick and other board members will direct the efforts of a broad spectrum of community individuals and organizations to attract new businesses and economic development and promote arts and culture in Wilmington. Wilmington Mayor James M. Baker appointed Mr. Pernick to the chairmanship post. Main Street is a grassroots, unified approach to urban redevelopment that I am pleased to be a parents? furniture store downtown, as well as working downtown for the past 23 years part of," Mr. Pernick said. "My interest comes from literally growing up in my grandparents and excited to be a part of this effort, and I thank Mayor Baker for including me Wilmington?s program is modeled after the National Trust Main Street Center Program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and, if certified, would be the largest city district to implement the program in the United States and would serve as a model for similar large downtown revitalization efforts Mr. Pernick has served for more than 10 years on the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors of one of the Program?s partner organizations, Downtown Visions, a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the cleanliness and safety of downtown. Wilmington Mr. Pernick received his B.A., magna cum laude, from Brandeis University and earned his J.D. with honors, from George Washington University Law School. Norman L. Pernick, Chair of Saul Ewing LLPs Bankruptcy and Restructuring Department, will oversee the Downtown Wilmington Main Street Program, a community-driven renewal plan officially launched May 30. Plans call for the long term continued revitalization of Wilmingtons downtown business district, which is approximately 70 square blocks. As Chair of the Downtown Wilmington Main Street Board of Directors, Mr. Pernick and other board members will direct the efforts of a broad spectrum of community individuals and organizations to attract new businesses and economic development and promote arts and culture in Wilmington. Wilmington Mayor James M. Baker appointed Mr. Pernick to the chairmanship post. Main Street is a grassroots, unified approach to urban redevelopment that I am pleased to be a parents? furniture store downtown, as well as working downtown for the past 23 years part of," Mr. Pernick said. "My interest comes from literally growing up in my grandparents and excited to be a part of this effort, and I thank Mayor Baker for including me Wilmington?s program is modeled after the National Trust Main Street Center Program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and, if certified, would be the largest city district to implement the program in the United States and would serve as a model for similar large downtown revitalization efforts Mr. Pernick has served for more than 10 years on the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors of one of the Program?s partner organizations, Downtown Visions, a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the cleanliness and safety of downtown. Wilmington Mr. Pernick received his B.A., magna cum laude, from Brandeis University and earned his J.D. with honors, from George Washington University Law School. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2104 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2104&page=18 Address : 201 North Charles StreetSuite 2000 ,, Phone : 410-752-1630, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=45 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=45&page=20 Address : 1010 Hull StreetSuite 300 ,, Phone : 410-296-8500, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=285 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=285&page=21 Address : 2 North Charles StreetSuite 600 ,, Phone : 410-752-8700, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=802 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=802&page=22 Address : 1 South StreetSuite 2200 ,, Phone : 410-752-5830, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=859 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=859&page=23 Address : 233 East Redwood Street, Phone : 410-576-4000, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=927 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=927&page=24 Address : 1 South StreetSuite 2600 ,, Phone : 410-752-6030, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1324 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1324&page=25 Address : 10 Light Street, Phone : 410-727-6464, City : Baltimore Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that the law firm ranked sixth out of 164 participating firms nationally in The American Lawyer†s 2007 Midlevel Associates Survey. Lawyers across the country in their third through fifth years of practice completed the magazine†s survey this spring with questions concerning satisfaction with the substance of work; relations with associates and partners; training and guidance; openness about finances and strategies; and the firm†s attitude toward diversity. Since 2003, Miles & Stockbridge has consistently ranked among the top 6% of firms nationally as an overall place to work in The American Lawyer†s surveys of midlevel associates, including a No. 2 ranking in 2004. Each year, the firm has ranked No. 1 in midlevel associate satisfaction among participating Baltimore law firms. ‽We are delighted that our midlevel associates have consistently placed Miles & Stockbridge at the top of this key ranking,” said Randi Lewis, Miles & Stockbridge†s Director of Diversity and Professional Development. "Miles & Stockbridge strives to provide our associates with rewarding professional opportunities that promote learning and teamwork in a client-focused environment." Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that the law firm ranked sixth out of 164 participating firms nationally in The American Lawyer†s 2007 Midlevel Associates Survey. Lawyers across the country in their third through fifth years of practice completed the magazine†s survey this spring with questions concerning satisfaction with the substance of work; relations with associates and partners; training and guidance; openness about finances and strategies; and the firm†s attitude toward diversity. Since 2003, Miles & Stockbridge has consistently ranked among the top 6% of firms nationally as an overall place to work in The American Lawyer†s surveys of midlevel associates, including a No. 2 ranking in 2004. Each year, the firm has ranked No. 1 in midlevel associate satisfaction among participating Baltimore law firms. ‽We are delighted that our midlevel associates have consistently placed Miles & Stockbridge at the top of this key ranking,” said Randi Lewis, Miles & Stockbridge†s Director of Diversity and Professional Development. "Miles & Stockbridge strives to provide our associates with rewarding professional opportunities that promote learning and teamwork in a client-focused environment." Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that it represented Baltimore-based architectural design firm RTKL Associates Inc. (RTKL) in its recent acquisition by ARCADIS N.V., an international consulting and engineering company headquartered in The Netherlands. ‽Miles & Stockbridge†s primary focus was assisting RTKL in obtaining economic value commensurate with the company†s financial success and global stature,” said Charles Schelberg, a principal of the firm who helped structure and negotiate the transaction. Schelberg, who led the team of lawyers that represented RTKL, said, ‽We are confident that we have accomplished that for our client.” Before the acquisition by ARCADIS, RTKL was a privately owned firm. The company had 2006 gross revenues of $195 million and net revenues of $142 million. With 1,100 professionals and support staff, RTKL provides architectural design, master planning and specialized engineering services from six U.S. offices in Baltimore, Washington, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami and from offices in London, Madrid, Shanghai and Tokyo. Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that it represented Baltimore-based architectural design firm RTKL Associates Inc. (RTKL) in its recent acquisition by ARCADIS N.V., an international consulting and engineering company headquartered in The Netherlands. ‽Miles & Stockbridge†s primary focus was assisting RTKL in obtaining economic value commensurate with the company†s financial success and global stature,” said Charles Schelberg, a principal of the firm who helped structure and negotiate the transaction. Schelberg, who led the team of lawyers that represented RTKL, said, ‽We are confident that we have accomplished that for our client.” Before the acquisition by ARCADIS, RTKL was a privately owned firm. The company had 2006 gross revenues of $195 million and net revenues of $142 million. With 1,100 professionals and support staff, RTKL provides architectural design, master planning and specialized engineering services from six U.S. offices in Baltimore, Washington, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami and from offices in London, Madrid, Shanghai and Tokyo. Miles & Stockbridge P.C. is pleased to announce that it has been ranked one of the top firms in Maryland (Band 1) by Chambers USA for outstanding legal work in the area of labor & employment law. It also earned high marks (Band 2) in the areas of corporate/mergers and acquisitions; employee benefits and executive compensation; and litigation Law firms and individual attorneys are ranked by Chambers USA in bands from 1-6, with 1 being the best. The qualities on which rankings are assessed include technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by the client. Additionally, the following Miles & Stockbridge lawyers earned top honors: Band 1 - Edward Adkins in Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Band 1 - Kathleen Pontone in Labor & Employment Band 1 - Stephen Silvestri in Labor & Employment Band 2 - Steven Frenkil in Labor & Employment Band 2 - John Frisch in Corporate/M&A Band 2 - Thompson Webb in Corporate/M&A Band 3 - Anthony Kraus in Labor & Employment Stefan Jan Marculewicz was also listed as one of the top ‽up and coming” lawyers in the area of labor & employment law. ABOUT CHAMBERS USA The Chambers Guides, including Chambers USA: America†s Leading Lawyers for Business, list the top lawyers and law firms in 175 countries, providing independent rankings and editorial commentary. A team of more than 100 experienced Chambers researchers are dedicated to investigating the legal profession. They talk to clients and find out which law firms they use, in which practice areas and which individual lawyers are doing the work. Miles & Stockbridge P.C. is pleased to announce that it has been ranked one of the top firms in Maryland (Band 1) by Chambers USA for outstanding legal work in the area of labor & employment law. It also earned high marks (Band 2) in the areas of corporate/mergers and acquisitions; employee benefits and executive compensation; and litigation Law firms and individual attorneys are ranked by Chambers USA in bands from 1-6, with 1 being the best. The qualities on which rankings are assessed include technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by the client. Additionally, the following Miles & Stockbridge lawyers earned top honors: Band 1 - Edward Adkins in Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Band 1 - Kathleen Pontone in Labor & Employment Band 1 - Stephen Silvestri in Labor & Employment Band 2 - Steven Frenkil in Labor & Employment Band 2 - John Frisch in Corporate/M&A Band 2 - Thompson Webb in Corporate/M&A Band 3 - Anthony Kraus in Labor & Employment Stefan Jan Marculewicz was also listed as one of the top ‽up and coming” lawyers in the area of labor & employment law. ABOUT CHAMBERS USA The Chambers Guides, including Chambers USA: America†s Leading Lawyers for Business, list the top lawyers and law firms in 175 countries, providing independent rankings and editorial commentary. A team of more than 100 experienced Chambers researchers are dedicated to investigating the legal profession. They talk to clients and find out which law firms they use, in which practice areas and which individual lawyers are doing the work. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1649 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1649&page=26 Address : 27th FloorOne South Street ,, Phone : 410-332-8550, City : Baltimore Derrick L. Williams has joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP as an associate in the Columbia office, bringing with him experience as a defense litigator who handles cases ranging from premises liability and workers\' compensation to employment and labor related issues. He will practice in the areas of business and franchise litigation, as well as employment and labor litigation. Williams has successfully represented clients in motions hearings, mediations and arbitrations. He has argued motions before both state and federal courts and has conducted hearings and appeals before the S.C. Employment Security Commission and the S.C. Workers†Compensation Commission. Active in his community, Williams serves as Gov. Mark Sanford†s 2005 appointee to the Board of Trustees of the John de la Howe School, a residential group child-care agency for at-risk youth. He also is affiliated with the Defense Research Institute, the American Bar Association, the S.C. Bar Association, the Richland County Bar Association (Membership Committee chair), the S.C. Defense Trial Attorneys Association, and the College of Charleston Attorney Assistance Program. He is also the Young Lawyer Representative to the S.C. Bar Foundation Board. He serves on the board of Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR), which is dedicated to fostering a greater sense of civic and community involvement in the Midlands through social, political and cultural education, communication, development and action. Williams earned a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he was a member of the S.C. Environmental Law Journal. A Florence native, he has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the Honors Program at the College of Charleston. He formerly practiced at a Columbia law firm. Nelson Mullins, established in 1897, has more than 360 attorneys practicing from offices in Atlanta, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Raleigh, Washington and Winston-Salem. For more information on the Firm, go to www.nelsonmullins.com, or call (803) 255-9788 or (803) 255-9280. Derrick L. Williams has joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP as an associate in the Columbia office, bringing with him experience as a defense litigator who handles cases ranging from premises liability and workers\' compensation to employment and labor related issues. He will practice in the areas of business and franchise litigation, as well as employment and labor litigation. Williams has successfully represented clients in motions hearings, mediations and arbitrations. He has argued motions before both state and federal courts and has conducted hearings and appeals before the S.C. Employment Security Commission and the S.C. Workers†Compensation Commission. Active in his community, Williams serves as Gov. Mark Sanford†s 2005 appointee to the Board of Trustees of the John de la Howe School, a residential group child-care agency for at-risk youth. He also is affiliated with the Defense Research Institute, the American Bar Association, the S.C. Bar Association, the Richland County Bar Association (Membership Committee chair), the S.C. Defense Trial Attorneys Association, and the College of Charleston Attorney Assistance Program. He is also the Young Lawyer Representative to the S.C. Bar Foundation Board. He serves on the board of Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR), which is dedicated to fostering a greater sense of civic and community involvement in the Midlands through social, political and cultural education, communication, development and action. Williams earned a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he was a member of the S.C. Environmental Law Journal. A Florence native, he has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the Honors Program at the College of Charleston. He formerly practiced at a Columbia law firm. Nelson Mullins, established in 1897, has more than 360 attorneys practicing from offices in Atlanta, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Raleigh, Washington and Winston-Salem. For more information on the Firm, go to www.nelsonmullins.com, or call (803) 255-9788 or (803) 255-9280. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1752 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1752&page=27 Address : 25 South Charles StreetSuite 1400 ,, Phone : 410-539-5040, City : Baltimore The installation of new officers of The Bar Association of Baltimore City was conducted during a special dinner program and reception at the association†s 127th Annual Meeting held on May 23, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency Baltimore. Semmes principal, Christopher R. West was inducted as President of The Bar Association of Baltimore City. The Bar Association of Baltimore City was the first Bar Association formed in the State of Maryland and is one of the oldest in the Nation. Incorporated on January 15, 1880, its mission is "to aid in maintaining the honor and dignity of the profession, to promote legal science, and further the administration of justice." Mr. West previously served The Bar Association of Baltimore City as President-Elect (2006-2007); Vice President (2005-2006); Treasurer (2004-2005); President of the Baltimore Bar Foundation (2005-2006); Chair of the Public Relations Committee (1991-1992); Chair of the Program Committee (1990-1991); Chairman of the Young Lawyers†Section (1986-1987) and as Vice-Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer of the Young Lawyers Section, from 1983-1986. Mr. West concentrates his practice at Semmes representing small business investment companies and lending institutions. He represents both local and national companies doing business in Maryland, assisting them with their transactional needs and in complying with all applicable state and local regulations. Mr. West also maintains an active business litigation practice. Many attorneys from Semmes and guests attended the event, including U. S. District Court Chief Judge Benson Legg, U. S. District Court Judge J. Frederick Motz, U. S. District Court Judge William Nickerson, U. S. Bankruptcy Judge E. Stephen Derby, U. S. Bankruptcy Judge James F. Schneider, Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Robert Kershaw and retired Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Thomas J. S. Waxter, Jr. All of us at Semmes, Bowen & Semmes congratulate Mr. West on his election to the honored position of President, and for his time honored commitment and dedicated service to The Bar Association of Baltimore City. The installation of new officers of The Bar Association of Baltimore City was conducted during a special dinner program and reception at the association†s 127th Annual Meeting held on May 23, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency Baltimore. Semmes principal, Christopher R. West was inducted as President of The Bar Association of Baltimore City. The Bar Association of Baltimore City was the first Bar Association formed in the State of Maryland and is one of the oldest in the Nation. Incorporated on January 15, 1880, its mission is "to aid in maintaining the honor and dignity of the profession, to promote legal science, and further the administration of justice." Mr. West previously served The Bar Association of Baltimore City as President-Elect (2006-2007); Vice President (2005-2006); Treasurer (2004-2005); President of the Baltimore Bar Foundation (2005-2006); Chair of the Public Relations Committee (1991-1992); Chair of the Program Committee (1990-1991); Chairman of the Young Lawyers†Section (1986-1987) and as Vice-Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer of the Young Lawyers Section, from 1983-1986. Mr. West concentrates his practice at Semmes representing small business investment companies and lending institutions. He represents both local and national companies doing business in Maryland, assisting them with their transactional needs and in complying with all applicable state and local regulations. Mr. West also maintains an active business litigation practice. Many attorneys from Semmes and guests attended the event, including U. S. District Court Chief Judge Benson Legg, U. S. District Court Judge J. Frederick Motz, U. S. District Court Judge William Nickerson, U. S. Bankruptcy Judge E. Stephen Derby, U. S. Bankruptcy Judge James F. Schneider, Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Robert Kershaw and retired Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Thomas J. S. Waxter, Jr. All of us at Semmes, Bowen & Semmes congratulate Mr. West on his election to the honored position of President, and for his time honored commitment and dedicated service to The Bar Association of Baltimore City. The following new attorneys have recently joined the firm: Chad A. Michael Associate, Workers' Compensation Baltimore Office Daniel P. Moloney Associate, Workers' Compensation Baltimore Office Jason E. Rheinstein Associate, General Business Baltimore Office Jeffrey M. Sherman Principal Washington & Virginia Office The following new attorneys have recently joined the firm: Chad A. Michael Associate, Workers' Compensation Baltimore Office Daniel P. Moloney Associate, Workers' Compensation Baltimore Office Jason E. Rheinstein Associate, General Business Baltimore Office Jeffrey M. Sherman Principal Washington & Virginia Office Semmes' principals Donald F. Burke and Jonathan Topazian conduct employee seminars on "Harassment in the Workplace". This workshop is intended to assist you, the employer, in understanding the law surrounding workplace harassment and to demonstrate how to react to allegations of workplace harassment you may encounter. Semmes' principals Donald F. Burke and Jonathan Topazian conduct employee seminars on "Harassment in the Workplace". This workshop is intended to assist you, the employer, in understanding the law surrounding workplace harassment and to demonstrate how to react to allegations of workplace harassment you may encounter. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2146 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2146&page=28 Address : 100 East Pratt Street26th Floor ,, Phone : 410-752-9700, City : Baltimore Paul Walter has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Baltimore School of Law and will teach a course entitled Litigation Process during the Fall semester. Laurie M. Wasserman has been appointed as Baltimore County Representative to the Maryland State Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section. L. Content McLaughlin has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Maryland Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners and serves as Public Policy Chair. Ferrier R. Stillman has been invited to participate in the Women in Law Development Committee. This project will record the unacknowledged history of women in the law. John B. Isbister and Diane V. D'Aiutolo have been invited to reprise their roles as faculty members in MICPEL's Trial Advocacy Program at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Paul Walter has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Baltimore School of Law and will teach a course entitled Litigation Process during the Fall semester. Laurie M. Wasserman has been appointed as Baltimore County Representative to the Maryland State Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section. L. Content McLaughlin has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Maryland Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners and serves as Public Policy Chair. Ferrier R. Stillman has been invited to participate in the Women in Law Development Committee. This project will record the unacknowledged history of women in the law. John B. Isbister and Diane V. D'Aiutolo have been invited to reprise their roles as faculty members in MICPEL's Trial Advocacy Program at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Robert A. Gordon has been appointed a Judge on the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland. He had been a partner in the firm†s Bankruptcy/Creditors†Rights Department for 14 years. He litigated a variety of civil actions involving millions of dollars of assets as both defendants†and plaintiffs†counsel. This included trying more than 100 cases in both the bankruptcy court and the state courts of Maryland. Mr. Gordon has also been active in a variety of professional and community organizations throughout Maryland. He is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association†s Lawyer's Assistance Committee (Chair, 2002-06) the National Bar Association, and is a board member of both the Monumental City Bar Association and the Bates/Vincent Foundation. He is a graduate of Colgate University and the University of Maryland School of Law, as well as the Greater Baltimore Committee Leadership Program of 1995. Bill Carrier, the firm's Managing Partner, stated ""we great take pride in the appointment of Robert A. Gordon to the bench of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland. Robert has been an important part of the Creditors†Rights team at Tydings. His professional skills, sense of fair play, and compassion for others make him an excellent addition to the bench. Robert A. Gordon has been appointed a Judge on the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland. He had been a partner in the firm†s Bankruptcy/Creditors†Rights Department for 14 years. He litigated a variety of civil actions involving millions of dollars of assets as both defendants†and plaintiffs†counsel. This included trying more than 100 cases in both the bankruptcy court and the state courts of Maryland. Mr. Gordon has also been active in a variety of professional and community organizations throughout Maryland. He is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association†s Lawyer's Assistance Committee (Chair, 2002-06) the National Bar Association, and is a board member of both the Monumental City Bar Association and the Bates/Vincent Foundation. He is a graduate of Colgate University and the University of Maryland School of Law, as well as the Greater Baltimore Committee Leadership Program of 1995. Bill Carrier, the firm's Managing Partner, stated ""we great take pride in the appointment of Robert A. Gordon to the bench of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland. Robert has been an important part of the Creditors†Rights team at Tydings. His professional skills, sense of fair play, and compassion for others make him an excellent addition to the bench. Tydings & Rosenberg LLP announces that Franklin M. Lee has joined the firm as a partner. Mr. Lee enhances Tydings & Rosenberg†s ability to provide strategic legal counsel to its growing list of diverse business clients. He represents minority businesses and has experience with disadvantaged business enterprise programs. His knowledge and understanding of the public policy issues facing businesses today adds depth to the firm†s business department. In addition to his business clients, Mr. Lee has represented local, state, and federal governments in the development of various procurement and public contracting policies, including minority business participation programs, commercial non-discrimination policies, and economic development initiatives. He has been consulted by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Transportation on proposed revisions to federal disadvantaged business programs. Mr. Lee is a frequent speaker and author on public policy topics. He is admitted to practice in Maryland and is a graduate of the University of Chicago and the University of Maryland School of Law. He is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association and National Bar Association. Mr. Lee has a long record of serving the community and is actively involved in civic and professional activities. He served as chief counsel to the Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund, Inc. and continues to serve on its National Lawyers Panel. He is also a member of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, the Sandtown Habitat for Humanity, and the Southern Poverty Law Center. Mr. Lee currently serves on the Greater Baltimore Committee†s Bridging the Gap Advisory Panel and recently served on Governor Ehrlich†s Commission on MBE Reform as well as the Maryland Task Force on Lending Equity within Financial Institutions. As an outgrowth of these civic activities, Mr. Lee was the principal author of landmark commercial non-discrimination legislation recently enacted by the City of Baltimore and the State of Maryland. He may be reached at 410.752.9734 or at flee@tydingslaw.com. Tydings & Rosenberg LLP announces that Franklin M. Lee has joined the firm as a partner. Mr. Lee enhances Tydings & Rosenberg†s ability to provide strategic legal counsel to its growing list of diverse business clients. He represents minority businesses and has experience with disadvantaged business enterprise programs. His knowledge and understanding of the public policy issues facing businesses today adds depth to the firm†s business department. In addition to his business clients, Mr. Lee has represented local, state, and federal governments in the development of various procurement and public contracting policies, including minority business participation programs, commercial non-discrimination policies, and economic development initiatives. He has been consulted by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Transportation on proposed revisions to federal disadvantaged business programs. Mr. Lee is a frequent speaker and author on public policy topics. He is admitted to practice in Maryland and is a graduate of the University of Chicago and the University of Maryland School of Law. He is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association and National Bar Association. Mr. Lee has a long record of serving the community and is actively involved in civic and professional activities. He served as chief counsel to the Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund, Inc. and continues to serve on its National Lawyers Panel. He is also a member of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, the Sandtown Habitat for Humanity, and the Southern Poverty Law Center. Mr. Lee currently serves on the Greater Baltimore Committee†s Bridging the Gap Advisory Panel and recently served on Governor Ehrlich†s Commission on MBE Reform as well as the Maryland Task Force on Lending Equity within Financial Institutions. As an outgrowth of these civic activities, Mr. Lee was the principal author of landmark commercial non-discrimination legislation recently enacted by the City of Baltimore and the State of Maryland. He may be reached at 410.752.9734 or at flee@tydingslaw.com. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2413 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2413&page=29 Address : 7 St. Paul Street, Phone : 410-347-8700, City : Baltimore Harry S. Johnson, Esq., partner in Whiteford, Taylor & Preston's (WTP) Litigation department and a past president of the Maryland State Bar Association, has been appointed as a member of the American Bar Association's (ABA) Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary. His appointment took effect at the ABA's annual meeting earlier this month in San Francisco. With more than 413,000 members, the ABA is the largest voluntary professional membership organization in the world. This 15-member committee evaluates the professional qualifications of all candidates for the U.S. Supreme Court, all federal circuit and district court judgeships, and the Court of International Trade. Johnson was named as the committee's Fourth Circuit representative and is one of three new appointees to the committee made by William H. Neukom, the new ABA president. During his three-year appointment, Johnson's work will include evaluation of judicial candidates in the Fourth Circuit (Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina). On occasion, members of the ABA Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary also testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee concerning recommendations for federal judicial vacancies, including the Supreme Court. Johnson also serves as a member of the ABA's Standing Committee on Public Education. Locally, he serves on the boards of CenterStage, the Baltimore Community Foundation, and the Greater Baltimore Medical Center, among others. Johnson has been listed among the Best Lawyers in America, Black Enterprise Magazine's Top Black Lawyers in America, the Maryland Daily Record's Leadership in Law program, and Maryland's Super Lawyers. Johnson's legal practice focuses primarily on complex litigation, and he currently chairs the firm's Specialty Litigation section. Harry S. Johnson, Esq., partner in Whiteford, Taylor & Preston's (WTP) Litigation department and a past president of the Maryland State Bar Association, has been appointed as a member of the American Bar Association's (ABA) Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary. His appointment took effect at the ABA's annual meeting earlier this month in San Francisco. With more than 413,000 members, the ABA is the largest voluntary professional membership organization in the world. This 15-member committee evaluates the professional qualifications of all candidates for the U.S. Supreme Court, all federal circuit and district court judgeships, and the Court of International Trade. Johnson was named as the committee's Fourth Circuit representative and is one of three new appointees to the committee made by William H. Neukom, the new ABA president. During his three-year appointment, Johnson's work will include evaluation of judicial candidates in the Fourth Circuit (Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina). On occasion, members of the ABA Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary also testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee concerning recommendations for federal judicial vacancies, including the Supreme Court. Johnson also serves as a member of the ABA's Standing Committee on Public Education. Locally, he serves on the boards of CenterStage, the Baltimore Community Foundation, and the Greater Baltimore Medical Center, among others. Johnson has been listed among the Best Lawyers in America, Black Enterprise Magazine's Top Black Lawyers in America, the Maryland Daily Record's Leadership in Law program, and Maryland's Super Lawyers. Johnson's legal practice focuses primarily on complex litigation, and he currently chairs the firm's Specialty Litigation section. Whiteford, Taylor & Preston LLP (WTP) is pleased to announce the opening of its Delaware office. The office, temporarily located at 1000 N. West Street, Wilmington, DE 19801, officially opened for business on August 1, 2007. The phone number is 302.295.4912. This major geographic expansion follows on the heels of the firm†s move into Northern Virginia earlier this year. ‽This is an exciting move for us and our clients, whose needs are driving our growth into both Virginia and Delaware,” explained Albert Mezzanotte, Jr., the firm†s managing partner. The first Wilmington-based lawyer to join the Delaware office is Margaret M. Manning, formerly of Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, who joins as Counsel in the Bankruptcy group. Mezzanotte noted, ‽We have been pleased by the intense interest shown in the Delaware legal community in this move. We plan to grow the Wilmington office aggressively, particularly in the areas of bankruptcy, litigation, corporate and real estate.” Meg Manning commented, ‽Whiteford has an excellent reputation, particularly for its strong Bankruptcy practice, which is well-known for its national scope and sophistication. It†s great to get in on the ground floor of this major expansion for the firm, and I†m looking forward to welcoming many new colleagues to the Wilmington office and practice over the next year.” The firm is actively negotiating for sufficient permanent space in Wilmington to accommodate ten or more lawyers. Whiteford, Taylor & Preston LLP (WTP) is pleased to announce the opening of its Delaware office. The office, temporarily located at 1000 N. West Street, Wilmington, DE 19801, officially opened for business on August 1, 2007. The phone number is 302.295.4912. This major geographic expansion follows on the heels of the firm†s move into Northern Virginia earlier this year. ‽This is an exciting move for us and our clients, whose needs are driving our growth into both Virginia and Delaware,” explained Albert Mezzanotte, Jr., the firm†s managing partner. The first Wilmington-based lawyer to join the Delaware office is Margaret M. Manning, formerly of Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, who joins as Counsel in the Bankruptcy group. Mezzanotte noted, ‽We have been pleased by the intense interest shown in the Delaware legal community in this move. We plan to grow the Wilmington office aggressively, particularly in the areas of bankruptcy, litigation, corporate and real estate.” Meg Manning commented, ‽Whiteford has an excellent reputation, particularly for its strong Bankruptcy practice, which is well-known for its national scope and sophistication. It†s great to get in on the ground floor of this major expansion for the firm, and I†m looking forward to welcoming many new colleagues to the Wilmington office and practice over the next year.” The firm is actively negotiating for sufficient permanent space in Wilmington to accommodate ten or more lawyers. Whiteford, Taylor & Preston (WTP) is pleased to welcome Christopher A. Jones, Esq. as Partner in the firm's Bankruptcy section. Stationed in the firm's new Falls Church office, Jones is formerly of LeClair Ryan in Richmond, Virginia, and has a wealth of experience in handling insolvency matters for both debtors and creditors, as well as handling complex commercial litigation. "Chris' sophisticated understanding of insolvency matters and his extensive experience representing debtors and serving as creditors' counsel make him a strong addition to our practice," explained Paul M. Nussbaum, chair of WTP's Bankruptcy section. "Virginia is a key market for us, and we're delighted to add someone of his stature and reputation in the Virginia bar." With over a decade of legal experience, Jones advises secured lenders and creditors in litigation and insolvency matters in addition to representing reorganizing debtors. Most notably, he has experience handling large chapter 11 cases for Heilig-Meyers Company and Tultex Corporation. Named as a Rising Star by Virginia Super Lawyers, Jones has lectured for the Virginia Bar Association's Bankruptcy section and served as faculty for a Virginia Bankers' Bankruptcy Reform seminar. A 1996 graduate of the University of Richmond School of Law, he is admitted to the Virginia bar. Jones holds a B.A. in Political Science from Duke University. "I am very excited to join WTP in their new Falls Church office and to work with such a dynamic group of lawyers," noted Jones. Whiteford, Taylor & Preston (WTP) is pleased to welcome Christopher A. Jones, Esq. as Partner in the firm's Bankruptcy section. Stationed in the firm's new Falls Church office, Jones is formerly of LeClair Ryan in Richmond, Virginia, and has a wealth of experience in handling insolvency matters for both debtors and creditors, as well as handling complex commercial litigation. "Chris' sophisticated understanding of insolvency matters and his extensive experience representing debtors and serving as creditors' counsel make him a strong addition to our practice," explained Paul M. Nussbaum, chair of WTP's Bankruptcy section. "Virginia is a key market for us, and we're delighted to add someone of his stature and reputation in the Virginia bar." With over a decade of legal experience, Jones advises secured lenders and creditors in litigation and insolvency matters in addition to representing reorganizing debtors. Most notably, he has experience handling large chapter 11 cases for Heilig-Meyers Company and Tultex Corporation. Named as a Rising Star by Virginia Super Lawyers, Jones has lectured for the Virginia Bar Association's Bankruptcy section and served as faculty for a Virginia Bankers' Bankruptcy Reform seminar. A 1996 graduate of the University of Richmond School of Law, he is admitted to the Virginia bar. Jones holds a B.A. in Political Science from Duke University. "I am very excited to join WTP in their new Falls Church office and to work with such a dynamic group of lawyers," noted Jones. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2512 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2512&page=30 Address : 110 North Court Street2nd Floor ,, Phone : 301-668-9300, City : Frederick http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1224 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1224&page=44 Address : 111 South Calvert StreetSuite 2700 ,, Phone : 410-385-5208, City : Baltimore http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2097 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2097&page=32 Address : 750 East Pratt StreetSuite 900 ,, Phone : 410-244-7400, City : Baltimore Venable LLP is pleased to announce that partner Vicki Margolis was selected by The Daily Record as one of Maryland\'s Top 100 Women. Ms. Margolis was awarded for her professional accomplishments, her devotion to community action and her commitment to mentoring others. Ms. Margolis has been with Venable for more than 16 years. As chair of Venable\'s Patent Litigation Group, Ms. Margolis\' practice focuses on patent and trademark litigation for a variety of industries, including global pharmaceutical companies, national financial services firms, and consumer products companies. She is co-chair of Venable\'s Diversity Committee and co-head of the firm\'s recently announced strategic alliance with the minority-owned law firm Brown & Sheehan, LLP, the largest Minority Business Enterprise law firm in Maryland. Ms. Margolis is also a past member of Venable\'s Executive Board. Ms. Margolis is a member of Network 2000, and a graduate of the Greater Baltimore Committee Leadership Program. She is also a member of the Character Committee of the Court of Appeals of Maryland for the Sixth Appellate Court where she screens and mentors applicants for the Maryland State Bar. In the community, Ms. Margolis devotes her time, energy and resources by serving as Board Governance Chair of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Maryland affiliate, and as a board member with the Maryland SPCA. Ms. Margolis was named to Baltimore Business Journal\'s \"\"Who\'s Who in Intellectual Property Law\"\" and was selected for its \"\"40 Under 40\"\" award. Started in 1996, the Top 100 Women contest was created to recognize Maryland\'s leading women who are positively impacting our state by mentoring others and working in their communities. The contest was also created to provide the business community with a resource for selecting candidates to fill management positions or corporate board seats. This year\'s winners will be honored at an awards ceremony on Monday, May 8, 2006 beginning with a reception at 5 p.m. at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore City. As one of The American Lawyer\'s top 100 law firms, Venable LLP has lawyers practicing in all areas of corporate and business law, complex litigation, intellectual property and government affairs. Venable serves corporate, institutional, governmental, nonprofit and individual clients throughout the U.S. and around the world from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Maryland, New York and Virginia. For more information, visit www.venable.com. Venable LLP is pleased to announce that partner Vicki Margolis was selected by The Daily Record as one of Maryland\'s Top 100 Women. Ms. Margolis was awarded for her professional accomplishments, her devotion to community action and her commitment to mentoring others. Ms. Margolis has been with Venable for more than 16 years. As chair of Venable\'s Patent Litigation Group, Ms. Margolis\' practice focuses on patent and trademark litigation for a variety of industries, including global pharmaceutical companies, national financial services firms, and consumer products companies. She is co-chair of Venable\'s Diversity Committee and co-head of the firm\'s recently announced strategic alliance with the minority-owned law firm Brown & Sheehan, LLP, the largest Minority Business Enterprise law firm in Maryland. Ms. Margolis is also a past member of Venable\'s Executive Board. Ms. Margolis is a member of Network 2000, and a graduate of the Greater Baltimore Committee Leadership Program. She is also a member of the Character Committee of the Court of Appeals of Maryland for the Sixth Appellate Court where she screens and mentors applicants for the Maryland State Bar. In the community, Ms. Margolis devotes her time, energy and resources by serving as Board Governance Chair of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Maryland affiliate, and as a board member with the Maryland SPCA. Ms. Margolis was named to Baltimore Business Journal\'s \"\"Who\'s Who in Intellectual Property Law\"\" and was selected for its \"\"40 Under 40\"\" award. Started in 1996, the Top 100 Women contest was created to recognize Maryland\'s leading women who are positively impacting our state by mentoring others and working in their communities. The contest was also created to provide the business community with a resource for selecting candidates to fill management positions or corporate board seats. This year\'s winners will be honored at an awards ceremony on Monday, May 8, 2006 beginning with a reception at 5 p.m. at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore City. As one of The American Lawyer\'s top 100 law firms, Venable LLP has lawyers practicing in all areas of corporate and business law, complex litigation, intellectual property and government affairs. Venable serves corporate, institutional, governmental, nonprofit and individual clients throughout the U.S. and around the world from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Maryland, New York and Virginia. For more information, visit www.venable.com. Mr. Thompson has traveled the country speaking at schools, colleges, and to national organizations on leadership, diversity, and professional development. As a mentor, Mr. Thompson has worked with numerous students to foster and encourage career advancement and personal growth. \"\"With Craig\'s active track record promoting leadership, and professional and educational excellence in the community and nationally, he is certainly deserving of this honor,\"\" said James L. Shea, Managing Partner of Venable LLP. \"\"His work mentoring young people and the next generation of attorneys is of tremendous value to Venable and the legal profession.\"\" Mr. Thompson is a partner in Venable\'s Litigation Division, where he represents clients in both federal and state courts in the areas of commercial litigation, products liability, personal injury, and premises liability. A former television talk show host, he currently hosts a weekly two-way talk radio show focused on a number of community issues and national topics. Additionally, Mr. Thompson is an adjunct professor and lecturer of a pre-law course at the University of Maryland, College Park. \"\"Mr. Thompson embodies all that the BLSA was created and designed to achieve and we are proud to bestow upon him the distinguished honor of Alumni of the Year,\"\" remarked Tiffany Harvey, president of University of Maryland\'s BLSA Chapter. No stranger to recognition, Mr. Thompson has been the recipient of the \"\"Outstanding Young Alumnus\"\" award from the University of Maryland and \"\"Practitioner of the Year\"\" award from the University of Maryland School of Law. Recognized twice by the Baltimore Business Journal as one of Baltimore\'s \"\"40 Under 40,\"\" he has also received the \"\"Leadership in Law\"\" award from The Daily Record. Mr. Thompson was honored on March 4, 2006 at the BLSA\'s 31st Annual Scholarship and awards banquet. The BLSA was founded in 1967 and has chapters at virtually every law school in the country. The University of Maryland chapter, one of the first and largest in the nation, is an integral part of the local black community and bar and has received several national BLSA honors and community service awards for its achievements. As one of The American Lawyer\'s top 100 law firms, Venable LLP has lawyers practicing in all areas of corporate and business law, complex litigation, intellectual property and government affairs. Venable serves corporate, institutional, governmental, nonprofit and individual clients throughout the U.S. and around the world from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Maryland, New York and Virginia. For more information, visit www.venable.com. Mr. Thompson has traveled the country speaking at schools, colleges, and to national organizations on leadership, diversity, and professional development. As a mentor, Mr. Thompson has worked with numerous students to foster and encourage career advancement and personal growth. \"\"With Craig\'s active track record promoting leadership, and professional and educational excellence in the community and nationally, he is certainly deserving of this honor,\"\" said James L. Shea, Managing Partner of Venable LLP. \"\"His work mentoring young people and the next generation of attorneys is of tremendous value to Venable and the legal profession.\"\" Mr. Thompson is a partner in Venable\'s Litigation Division, where he represents clients in both federal and state courts in the areas of commercial litigation, products liability, personal injury, and premises liability. A former television talk show host, he currently hosts a weekly two-way talk radio show focused on a number of community issues and national topics. Additionally, Mr. Thompson is an adjunct professor and lecturer of a pre-law course at the University of Maryland, College Park. \"\"Mr. Thompson embodies all that the BLSA was created and designed to achieve and we are proud to bestow upon him the distinguished honor of Alumni of the Year,\"\" remarked Tiffany Harvey, president of University of Maryland\'s BLSA Chapter. No stranger to recognition, Mr. Thompson has been the recipient of the \"\"Outstanding Young Alumnus\"\" award from the University of Maryland and \"\"Practitioner of the Year\"\" award from the University of Maryland School of Law. Recognized twice by the Baltimore Business Journal as one of Baltimore\'s \"\"40 Under 40,\"\" he has also received the \"\"Leadership in Law\"\" award from The Daily Record. Mr. Thompson was honored on March 4, 2006 at the BLSA\'s 31st Annual Scholarship and awards banquet. The BLSA was founded in 1967 and has chapters at virtually every law school in the country. The University of Maryland chapter, one of the first and largest in the nation, is an integral part of the local black community and bar and has received several national BLSA honors and community service awards for its achievements. As one of The American Lawyer\'s top 100 law firms, Venable LLP has lawyers practicing in all areas of corporate and business law, complex litigation, intellectual property and government affairs. Venable serves corporate, institutional, governmental, nonprofit and individual clients throughout the U.S. and around the world from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Maryland, New York and Virginia. For more information, visit www.venable.com. Venable LLP is pleased to announce that it was presented the Law Firm Diversity Trailblazer Award by The President†s Roundtable, Inc. (PRT) and the Black CEO Summit. The Award was presented to Venable last month during the 2006 Black CEO Summit at the Baltimore Convention Center. The Trailblazer Award recognizes the winning law firm†s commitment to diversity in both their staffs and among their client base, as well as its contributions to the community. PRT is a Maryland-based organization of committed African-American CEOs who seek economic development advancement for community betterment. The Black CEO Summit is an event held annually in Baltimore for minority business owners and features two days of networking to provide assistance in developing business partnerships with major companies. Venableâ€"the largest law firm in Marylandâ€"recently formed an alliance with Brown & Sheehan, LLP, one of the area\'s largest minority-owned firms. This alliance is designed to assist both firms in meeting client service needs and providing clients with an even more diverse pool of legal professionals. Venable is committed to maintaining and building a diverse group of attorneys and staff who reflect the diversity of the communities in which they practice and the clients they serve. In 2005, minorities represented 20 percent of our entering associate class. Venable attorneys and staff worked more than 22,000 hours pro bono last year to benefit its communities. Other finalists of the Trailblazer Award were DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary and the law offices of Billy Murphy. As one of The American Lawyer\'s top 100 law firms, Venable LLP has lawyers practicing in all areas of corporate and business law, complex litigation, intellectual property and government affairs. Venable serves corporate, institutional, governmental, nonprofit and individual clients throughout the U.S. and around the world from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Maryland, New York and Virginia. For more information, visit www.venable.com. Venable LLP is pleased to announce that it was presented the Law Firm Diversity Trailblazer Award by The President†s Roundtable, Inc. (PRT) and the Black CEO Summit. The Award was presented to Venable last month during the 2006 Black CEO Summit at the Baltimore Convention Center. The Trailblazer Award recognizes the winning law firm†s commitment to diversity in both their staffs and among their client base, as well as its contributions to the community. PRT is a Maryland-based organization of committed African-American CEOs who seek economic development advancement for community betterment. The Black CEO Summit is an event held annually in Baltimore for minority business owners and features two days of networking to provide assistance in developing business partnerships with major companies. Venableâ€"the largest law firm in Marylandâ€"recently formed an alliance with Brown & Sheehan, LLP, one of the area\'s largest minority-owned firms. This alliance is designed to assist both firms in meeting client service needs and providing clients with an even more diverse pool of legal professionals. Venable is committed to maintaining and building a diverse group of attorneys and staff who reflect the diversity of the communities in which they practice and the clients they serve. In 2005, minorities represented 20 percent of our entering associate class. Venable attorneys and staff worked more than 22,000 hours pro bono last year to benefit its communities. Other finalists of the Trailblazer Award were DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary and the law offices of Billy Murphy. As one of The American Lawyer\'s top 100 law firms, Venable LLP has lawyers practicing in all areas of corporate and business law, complex litigation, intellectual property and government affairs. Venable serves corporate, institutional, governmental, nonprofit and individual clients throughout the U.S. and around the world from its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Maryland, New York and Virginia. For more information, visit www.venable.com. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2435 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2435&page=33 Address : 4520 Eastwest HighwaySuite 200 ,, Phone : 301-961-6555, City : Bethesda http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=188 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=188&page=34 Address : 247 West Patrick Street, Phone : 301-695-0244, City : Frederick http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1444 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1444&page=45 Address : 4800 Hampden Lane7th Floor ,, Phone : 301-656-7603, City : Bethesda http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1827 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1827&page=36 Address : 4416 E West HighwaySuite 4 ,, Phone : 301-986-9600, City : Bethesda http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2145 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2145&page=37 Address : 3 Bethesda Metro CenterSuite 460 ,, Phone : 301-986-1300, City : Bethesda http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1409 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1409&page=38 Address : 8401 Connecticut AvenueSuite 1100 ,, Phone : 301-652-6880, City : Chevy Chase http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=832 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=832&page=42 Address : 10015 Old Columbia RoadSuite B-215, Phone : 410-312-5599, City : Columbia A Los Angeles jury yesterday found power equipment manufacturer Foster Wheeler liable for the mesothelioma death of 60-year-old Richard Walmach. Foster Wheeler is a global engineering and construction conglomerate, and a long-time supplier of boilers, steam generators and related equipment systems to the U.S. Navy. Mr. Walmach, who died in June 2006 of pleural mesothelioma, was a career machinist mate. He spent a short stint in the U.S. Navy from 1967 to 1969. He then continued to work at naval shipyards and in machine shops around the country from 1965 until 2002. Mr. Walmach testified posthumously via video deposition that he did not work directly on the boilers or steam generators, but was often present when the asbestos insulation was being removed from boilers undergoing repair. This labor-intensive process involved chiseling and jack-hammering the insulation away from the boiler unit, which generated copious amounts of asbestos dust â€" deadly dust that he breathed daily over the course of his 37-year career. Evidence was offered that Foster Wheeler clearly knew of the dangers of asbestos and its link to deadly lung diseases as early as 1968. An internal memorandum proposed that company define maximum dust levels for fibrous insulation installation, and stressed the importance of respirator use among its own employees. Yet the company chose not to warn consumers of the danger through product labeling. Richard Walmach said that had he been aware of the risk posed by asbestos exposure â€" even as a so-called bystander â€" he would have chosen another line of work. He was diagnosed with early signs of mesothelioma in 2002 as a relatively young 56-year-old retiree. When a definitive diagnosis of meso-thelioma came in 2005, he survived just 16 months, leaving behind a wife, two daughters, a son, and three grandchildren. ‽This was a difficult case to try, and we couldn†t be happier for the family,” said Peter Kraus, co-founder of Waters & Kraus, llp. Co-founding partner Andy Waters, explained, ‽There†s a general public misconception that the U.S. Navy â€" who readily admits that they knew decades ago how deadly asbestos is but did nothing about it â€" is responsible for the harm they exposed their sailors to. But legally, the Navy is completely immune. Asbestos defendants who supplied the Navy have been fairly successful in making the case that if the Navy didn†t think it necessary to protect their own sailors, why should that responsibility fall to the manufacturer?” ‽This jury was able to move beyond that issue,” he continued. ‽In fact, they found that Foster Wheeler acted with malice in failing to warn consumers of the dangers of the asbestos used in and around their products.” ‽This case represents a milestone for plaintiffs in Navy exposure cases,” commented Sean Tracey, the WK partner who tried the case. ‽It shows that these cases do have merit and can be won. This is a huge victory for the Walmachs and all Naval families who have been affected by this devastating illness as a result of their service to this country.” A Los Angeles jury yesterday found power equipment manufacturer Foster Wheeler liable for the mesothelioma death of 60-year-old Richard Walmach. Foster Wheeler is a global engineering and construction conglomerate, and a long-time supplier of boilers, steam generators and related equipment systems to the U.S. Navy. Mr. Walmach, who died in June 2006 of pleural mesothelioma, was a career machinist mate. He spent a short stint in the U.S. Navy from 1967 to 1969. He then continued to work at naval shipyards and in machine shops around the country from 1965 until 2002. Mr. Walmach testified posthumously via video deposition that he did not work directly on the boilers or steam generators, but was often present when the asbestos insulation was being removed from boilers undergoing repair. This labor-intensive process involved chiseling and jack-hammering the insulation away from the boiler unit, which generated copious amounts of asbestos dust â€" deadly dust that he breathed daily over the course of his 37-year career. Evidence was offered that Foster Wheeler clearly knew of the dangers of asbestos and its link to deadly lung diseases as early as 1968. An internal memorandum proposed that company define maximum dust levels for fibrous insulation installation, and stressed the importance of respirator use among its own employees. Yet the company chose not to warn consumers of the danger through product labeling. Richard Walmach said that had he been aware of the risk posed by asbestos exposure â€" even as a so-called bystander â€" he would have chosen another line of work. He was diagnosed with early signs of mesothelioma in 2002 as a relatively young 56-year-old retiree. When a definitive diagnosis of meso-thelioma came in 2005, he survived just 16 months, leaving behind a wife, two daughters, a son, and three grandchildren. ‽This was a difficult case to try, and we couldn†t be happier for the family,” said Peter Kraus, co-founder of Waters & Kraus, llp. Co-founding partner Andy Waters, explained, ‽There†s a general public misconception that the U.S. Navy â€" who readily admits that they knew decades ago how deadly asbestos is but did nothing about it â€" is responsible for the harm they exposed their sailors to. But legally, the Navy is completely immune. Asbestos defendants who supplied the Navy have been fairly successful in making the case that if the Navy didn†t think it necessary to protect their own sailors, why should that responsibility fall to the manufacturer?” ‽This jury was able to move beyond that issue,” he continued. ‽In fact, they found that Foster Wheeler acted with malice in failing to warn consumers of the dangers of the asbestos used in and around their products.” ‽This case represents a milestone for plaintiffs in Navy exposure cases,” commented Sean Tracey, the WK partner who tried the case. ‽It shows that these cases do have merit and can be won. This is a huge victory for the Walmachs and all Naval families who have been affected by this devastating illness as a result of their service to this country.” Waters & Kraus, LLP, a leading plaintiffs†firm with Apr-07 national practice in personal injury and complex civil litigation, announced today the selection of Charles E. Valles, Paul C. Cook, Gary M. Paul, and Sean P. Tracey, as partners. The partnerships became effective January 1, 2007. ‽We are very pleased that Gary, Charles, Paul and Sean have accepted leadership roles in the firm” said Peter Kraus, a founding partner of the firm. ‽Individually, each of these men is an outstanding attorney. Together, they represent some of the greatest legal minds in the country who have helped us achieve an exceptional level of client service and firm success. We look forward to their continued contributions as Waters & Kraus continues to grow our areas of practice on a greater national scale.” Mr. Valles, who joined the firm in 2002 and has participated in prosecuting some of the firm†s most noteworthy asbestos cases, is based at the firm†s headquarters in Dallas. Mr. Cook, who focuses his practice on toxic tort litigation and appellate work, is based at the firm†s Los Angeles office. He joined Waters & Kraus in 2002. Mr. Paul also is based in Los Angeles. Paul, a CAALA Trial Lawyer of the Year, noted author and presenter, and widely respected trial attorney, joined the firm last winter. Mr. Tracey, a noted Houston plantiffs†attorney, joined the firm in February of this year, and is based in Houston. In related news, the firm also confirmed the opening of an office in Baltimore/ Washington, D.C., and another in Houston, Texas. The Baltimore/Washington, D.C., office allows the firm to better serve clients in the Northeast, while the new office in Houston provides clients in South Texas greater access to the firm†s growing product liability and personal injury practices. ‽WK takes more individual mesothelioma cases to verdict than any other plantiffs†firm in the country,” said Andy Waters, the firm†s co-founder. ‽Last year, we won four multimillion verdicts, two for more than $10 million. This year, we have dozens of cases set for trial across the country. With the opening of the D.C. and Houston offices, we are now better positioned to serve clients from coast to coast. Waters & Kraus, LLP, a leading plaintiffs†firm with Apr-07 national practice in personal injury and complex civil litigation, announced today the selection of Charles E. Valles, Paul C. Cook, Gary M. Paul, and Sean P. Tracey, as partners. The partnerships became effective January 1, 2007. ‽We are very pleased that Gary, Charles, Paul and Sean have accepted leadership roles in the firm” said Peter Kraus, a founding partner of the firm. ‽Individually, each of these men is an outstanding attorney. Together, they represent some of the greatest legal minds in the country who have helped us achieve an exceptional level of client service and firm success. We look forward to their continued contributions as Waters & Kraus continues to grow our areas of practice on a greater national scale.” Mr. Valles, who joined the firm in 2002 and has participated in prosecuting some of the firm†s most noteworthy asbestos cases, is based at the firm†s headquarters in Dallas. Mr. Cook, who focuses his practice on toxic tort litigation and appellate work, is based at the firm†s Los Angeles office. He joined Waters & Kraus in 2002. Mr. Paul also is based in Los Angeles. Paul, a CAALA Trial Lawyer of the Year, noted author and presenter, and widely respected trial attorney, joined the firm last winter. Mr. Tracey, a noted Houston plantiffs†attorney, joined the firm in February of this year, and is based in Houston. In related news, the firm also confirmed the opening of an office in Baltimore/ Washington, D.C., and another in Houston, Texas. The Baltimore/Washington, D.C., office allows the firm to better serve clients in the Northeast, while the new office in Houston provides clients in South Texas greater access to the firm†s growing product liability and personal injury practices. ‽WK takes more individual mesothelioma cases to verdict than any other plantiffs†firm in the country,” said Andy Waters, the firm†s co-founder. ‽Last year, we won four multimillion verdicts, two for more than $10 million. This year, we have dozens of cases set for trial across the country. With the opening of the D.C. and Houston offices, we are now better positioned to serve clients from coast to coast. A Los Angeles County jury yesterday awarded $15.25 million in compensatory damages to the family of a laborer who developed malignant mesothelioma after working with asbestos-containing products over three decades. Kelly-Moore Paint Company, Inc. and Kaiser Gypsum Company, Inc. were each assessed 30-percent liability for 74-year-old Salvatore ‽Sam” Silvestro†s terminal illness. The award included $250,000 for medical expenses and lost benefits and $15.0 million for loss of care, comfort and society. The jury also found that Kelly-Moore and Kaiser Gypsum acted with malice in their failure to notify and warn consumers of the cancer risk associated with their products. The jury, however, was not permitted to consider punitive damages. The $15.25 million verdict represents one of the largest-ever asbestos awards in Los Angeles County. It is the second significant verdict in LA County for a Waters & Kraus client this summer, coming on the heels of a $12.6 million award made in late June to the family of a mesothelioma victim with intermittent exposure to asbestos. The Silvestro case was originally dismissed in 2003 when an LA County judge ruled that Mr. Silvestro†s deposition â€" which was videotaped in Texas during the final weeks of his life â€" precluded the opportunity for several defendants to participate. The 2nd District, California Court of Appeals overturned the decision on appeal in 2005. Sam Silvestro worked as a cement mason and laborer on residential and commercial construction projects in the San Francisco area from 1946 to 1977. During a six-year period in the 1960s, he also worked as a boilermaker on more than 100 commercial and naval vessels. He also remodeled homes, including his own, and businesses during this period, using a variety of drywall and cement products manufactured by the defendants. Mr. Silvestro was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma in June 2001. He died five months later. His product identification testimony was made via video deposition. During the trial, his widow and daughter also recounted to the jury his use of Kaiser Gypsum†s joint compound during their own home remodeling project in the 1960s. The defense argued that Mr. Silvestro†s illness was likely caused by exposure to amosite asbestos, a type of asbestos fiber that is used in insulation and fireproofing products, such as the insulation that Mr. Silvestro used and was exposed to during his six-year tenure as a boilermaker. Defense witnesses explained that Kelly-Moore†s and Kaiser Gypsum†s drywall products contained chrysotile asbestos, which is considered a less potent carcinogen than amosite asbestos. According to defense experts, chrysotile asbestos is less ‽friable” than other types of asbestos, meaning it is less likely to be inhaled. Gary M. Paul, Waters & Kraus†lead attorney for the case, argued that the deadly effects of Mr. Silvestro†s long-term, daily exposure to chrysotile asbestos could not be overlooked. He contended that even if amosite asbestos were the more toxic carcinogen, Mr. Silvestro worked with it for just six years, versus more than 30 years†of daily exposure to the chrysotile asbestos contained in the defendants†products. After 14 days of testimony and three days of deliberation, the jury agreed. ‽The jury recognized that the tremendous loss suffered by the Silvestros could have been prevented, but Kelly-Moore and Kaiser Gypsum put the profitability of their corporations before the safety of their products,” said Mike Armitage, managing partner of Waters & Kraus†Los Angeles office. Mr. Paul continued, ‽It†s been a long, difficult wait for the Silvestro family over the last five years, but justice has been served. Like so many mesothelioma victims, Sam Silvestro was a decent, loving family man who worked hard every day of his life. He and his family deserved better than a death sentence for all his years of hard, honest labor. A Los Angeles County jury yesterday awarded $15.25 million in compensatory damages to the family of a laborer who developed malignant mesothelioma after working with asbestos-containing products over three decades. Kelly-Moore Paint Company, Inc. and Kaiser Gypsum Company, Inc. were each assessed 30-percent liability for 74-year-old Salvatore ‽Sam” Silvestro†s terminal illness. The award included $250,000 for medical expenses and lost benefits and $15.0 million for loss of care, comfort and society. The jury also found that Kelly-Moore and Kaiser Gypsum acted with malice in their failure to notify and warn consumers of the cancer risk associated with their products. The jury, however, was not permitted to consider punitive damages. The $15.25 million verdict represents one of the largest-ever asbestos awards in Los Angeles County. It is the second significant verdict in LA County for a Waters & Kraus client this summer, coming on the heels of a $12.6 million award made in late June to the family of a mesothelioma victim with intermittent exposure to asbestos. The Silvestro case was originally dismissed in 2003 when an LA County judge ruled that Mr. Silvestro†s deposition â€" which was videotaped in Texas during the final weeks of his life â€" precluded the opportunity for several defendants to participate. The 2nd District, California Court of Appeals overturned the decision on appeal in 2005. Sam Silvestro worked as a cement mason and laborer on residential and commercial construction projects in the San Francisco area from 1946 to 1977. During a six-year period in the 1960s, he also worked as a boilermaker on more than 100 commercial and naval vessels. He also remodeled homes, including his own, and businesses during this period, using a variety of drywall and cement products manufactured by the defendants. Mr. Silvestro was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma in June 2001. He died five months later. His product identification testimony was made via video deposition. During the trial, his widow and daughter also recounted to the jury his use of Kaiser Gypsum†s joint compound during their own home remodeling project in the 1960s. The defense argued that Mr. Silvestro†s illness was likely caused by exposure to amosite asbestos, a type of asbestos fiber that is used in insulation and fireproofing products, such as the insulation that Mr. Silvestro used and was exposed to during his six-year tenure as a boilermaker. Defense witnesses explained that Kelly-Moore†s and Kaiser Gypsum†s drywall products contained chrysotile asbestos, which is considered a less potent carcinogen than amosite asbestos. According to defense experts, chrysotile asbestos is less ‽friable” than other types of asbestos, meaning it is less likely to be inhaled. Gary M. Paul, Waters & Kraus†lead attorney for the case, argued that the deadly effects of Mr. Silvestro†s long-term, daily exposure to chrysotile asbestos could not be overlooked. He contended that even if amosite asbestos were the more toxic carcinogen, Mr. Silvestro worked with it for just six years, versus more than 30 years†of daily exposure to the chrysotile asbestos contained in the defendants†products. After 14 days of testimony and three days of deliberation, the jury agreed. ‽The jury recognized that the tremendous loss suffered by the Silvestros could have been prevented, but Kelly-Moore and Kaiser Gypsum put the profitability of their corporations before the safety of their products,” said Mike Armitage, managing partner of Waters & Kraus†Los Angeles office. Mr. Paul continued, ‽It†s been a long, difficult wait for the Silvestro family over the last five years, but justice has been served. 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