http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_nc.php Judged Law Firm en-us (C) 2006 Judged. All rights reserved. contact@judged.com(Judged) contact@judged.com Tue, 09 Jun 2026 09:59:12 -0500 Law Firms http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_nc.php 60 http://www.judged.com/images/xml_rss_feed.gif http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_nc.php Address : P.O. Box 7647, Phone : 828-252-6600, City : Asheville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2015 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2015&page=1 Address : 422 South Main Street, Phone : 828-697-6196, City : Hendersonville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2427 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2427&page=47 Address : 100 North Greene StreetSuite 102 ,, Phone : 336-217-4193, City : Greensboro Nine lawyers from Ellis & Winters LLP were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2008 (Copyright 2008 by Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken, S.C.). Best Lawyers compiles lists of outstanding attorneys through a rigorous process of peer-review. Thousands of leading lawyers nationwide confidentially evaluate their professional peers in their areas of practice in their jurisdictions. Inclusion is widely regarded within the legal profession as a significant honor. The following Ellis & Winters attorneys have been included in the 2008 Best Lawyers: Charles N. Anderson, Jr. (Real Estate Law); Alex J. Hagan (Medical Malpractice Law and Personal Injury Litigation); Andrew S. Chamberlin (Personal Injury Litigation); Richard W. Ellis (Antitrust Law; Bet-the-Company Litigation; Commercial Litigation; First Amendment Law; and Product Liability Litigation); Leslie C. O'Toole (Personal Injury Litigation and Product Liability Litigation); Jonathan D. Sasser (Commercial Litigation); Matthew W. Sawchak (Antitrust Law; Appellate Law; and Commercial Litigation); Paul K. Sun (Appellate Law and Commercial Litigation); Michael G. Winters (Real Estate Law). Nine lawyers from Ellis & Winters LLP were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2008 (Copyright 2008 by Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken, S.C.). Best Lawyers compiles lists of outstanding attorneys through a rigorous process of peer-review. Thousands of leading lawyers nationwide confidentially evaluate their professional peers in their areas of practice in their jurisdictions. Inclusion is widely regarded within the legal profession as a significant honor. The following Ellis & Winters attorneys have been included in the 2008 Best Lawyers: Charles N. Anderson, Jr. (Real Estate Law); Alex J. Hagan (Medical Malpractice Law and Personal Injury Litigation); Andrew S. Chamberlin (Personal Injury Litigation); Richard W. Ellis (Antitrust Law; Bet-the-Company Litigation; Commercial Litigation; First Amendment Law; and Product Liability Litigation); Leslie C. O'Toole (Personal Injury Litigation and Product Liability Litigation); Jonathan D. Sasser (Commercial Litigation); Matthew W. Sawchak (Antitrust Law; Appellate Law; and Commercial Litigation); Paul K. Sun (Appellate Law and Commercial Litigation); Michael G. Winters (Real Estate Law). After four days of trial in Richmond County, North Carolina, a jury rendered a defense verdict for FirstHealth Richmond Memorial Hospital. This is an action in which plaintiff alleged that she was injured as a result of a screw found in some banana pudding she was given while at FirstHealth. Plaintiff alleged that FirstHealth caused her injury by negligently producing banana pudding with a screw in it and failing to use reasonable care in inspecting its kitchen and the food it produced there. Plaintiff alleged she was injured when she bit down on the screw and, as a result, has been forced to undergo extensive dental treatment, including dental implants. After four days of trial in Richmond County, North Carolina, a jury rendered a defense verdict for FirstHealth Richmond Memorial Hospital. This is an action in which plaintiff alleged that she was injured as a result of a screw found in some banana pudding she was given while at FirstHealth. Plaintiff alleged that FirstHealth caused her injury by negligently producing banana pudding with a screw in it and failing to use reasonable care in inspecting its kitchen and the food it produced there. Plaintiff alleged she was injured when she bit down on the screw and, as a result, has been forced to undergo extensive dental treatment, including dental implants. Leslie O'Toole has recently been awarded the Citizen Lawyer award by the North Carolina Bar Association. The Citizen Lawyer award was established by the North Carolina Bar Association as a way to recognize lawyers who have found a way to help those in their community and participate in community activities. The goal of the Citizen Lawyer award is to use the examples of those awarded as a way to encourage others to follow in their footsteps. Leslie has served as the Secretary of the 1999 Special Olympics World Games as well as having served as the Chair for the Board of Special Olympics North Carolina. Leslie O'Toole has recently been awarded the Citizen Lawyer award by the North Carolina Bar Association. The Citizen Lawyer award was established by the North Carolina Bar Association as a way to recognize lawyers who have found a way to help those in their community and participate in community activities. The goal of the Citizen Lawyer award is to use the examples of those awarded as a way to encourage others to follow in their footsteps. Leslie has served as the Secretary of the 1999 Special Olympics World Games as well as having served as the Chair for the Board of Special Olympics North Carolina. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=696 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=696&page=40 Address : 1400 Crescent Green DriveSuite 300 ,, Phone : 919-854-1844, City : Cary http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=460 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=460&page=4 Address : 4401 Barclay Downs DriveSuite 200 ,, Phone : 704-372-6322, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=548 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=548&page=5 Address : P.O. Box 31247, Phone : 704-343-2000, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1052 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1052&page=6 Address : 600 South College StreetSuite 3000 ,, Phone : 704-372-9870, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1177 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1177&page=7 Address : 401 South Tryon StreetSuite 2600 ,, Phone : 704-444-2000, City : Charlotte Edward Black, special counsel in the Firm's Financial Services Practice, was quoted by The Hedge Fund Journal regarding 2006 hedge fund regulations by the FSA and the SEC (The Hedge Fund Year in Review: The Highs and Lows of 2006, December 2006). Edward Black, special counsel in the Firm's Financial Services Practice, was quoted by The Hedge Fund Journal regarding 2006 hedge fund regulations by the FSA and the SEC (The Hedge Fund Year in Review: The Highs and Lows of 2006, December 2006). Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP is pleased to announce that Bruce J. Casino has joined the Firm as a partner in its White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation Practice. He will be based in the Firm†s Washington office. Mr. Casino's arrival further expands Katten's national White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation Practice, which is comprised of several former prosecutors, law enforcement officers and federal defenders with broad investigative, trial and appellate experience. Katten's Chicago office currently boasts the largest number of attorneys with prior U.S. Attorney office experience among large law firm practices in Chicago. ‽Bruce†s experience in all aspects of white collar litigation, including supervision of foreign and domestic grand jury, congressional and internal investigations, makes him a valuable addition to our strong national practice,” said Sheldon T. Zenner, National Chair of Katten†s White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation Practice. ‽Bruce is highly regarded nationally as a white collar litigator, and he will be a tremendous resource for our clients.” Prior to joining Katten, Mr. Casino spent more than 13 years as a partner in the Washington office of Baker & Hostetler LLP. He was also an adjunct professor at George Washington University Law School teaching white collar crime law. Mr. Casino concentrates his practice in civil and white collar crime litigation, including the supervision of all aspects of foreign and domestic grand jury, congressional and internal investigations of alleged criminal activities by Fortune 500 companies and other companies and individuals in the areas of health care, government contracts, public integrity, environmental, customs, export control, securities and financial institutions fraud. He also regularly represents clients in matters involving fraud, suspension and debarment, insider trading, RICO, the Foreign Agents Registration Act, qui tam and false claims, obstruction of justice, customs compliance, export control, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, money laundering, tax evasion, kickbacks, theft of intellectual property, Sarbanes-Oxley, the Patriot Act, Medicare/Medicaid, asset forfeiture, and computer crime. In addition, Mr. Casino's commercial litigation and arbitration experience at the trial and appellate levels include supervising complex litigation of customs and Freedom of Information Act issues for major automobile manufacturers; handling issues arising from the bankruptcy of a national airline; and serving as lead counsel representing cities and other parties in U.S. Census-related litigation. He has also litigated matters in the areas of real estate, director liability, investment advisor, free speech, religious freedom, human rights, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, executive termination, employment, lending, business torts and shareholder derivative claims. Mr. Casino has also advised corporations and universities regarding export control compliance, deemed exports, voluntary self-disclosures, penalties and related issues. Mr. Casino earned his B.S. from the University of Maryland and his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP is pleased to announce that Bruce J. Casino has joined the Firm as a partner in its White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation Practice. He will be based in the Firm†s Washington office. Mr. Casino's arrival further expands Katten's national White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation Practice, which is comprised of several former prosecutors, law enforcement officers and federal defenders with broad investigative, trial and appellate experience. Katten's Chicago office currently boasts the largest number of attorneys with prior U.S. Attorney office experience among large law firm practices in Chicago. ‽Bruce†s experience in all aspects of white collar litigation, including supervision of foreign and domestic grand jury, congressional and internal investigations, makes him a valuable addition to our strong national practice,” said Sheldon T. Zenner, National Chair of Katten†s White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation Practice. ‽Bruce is highly regarded nationally as a white collar litigator, and he will be a tremendous resource for our clients.” Prior to joining Katten, Mr. Casino spent more than 13 years as a partner in the Washington office of Baker & Hostetler LLP. He was also an adjunct professor at George Washington University Law School teaching white collar crime law. Mr. Casino concentrates his practice in civil and white collar crime litigation, including the supervision of all aspects of foreign and domestic grand jury, congressional and internal investigations of alleged criminal activities by Fortune 500 companies and other companies and individuals in the areas of health care, government contracts, public integrity, environmental, customs, export control, securities and financial institutions fraud. He also regularly represents clients in matters involving fraud, suspension and debarment, insider trading, RICO, the Foreign Agents Registration Act, qui tam and false claims, obstruction of justice, customs compliance, export control, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, money laundering, tax evasion, kickbacks, theft of intellectual property, Sarbanes-Oxley, the Patriot Act, Medicare/Medicaid, asset forfeiture, and computer crime. In addition, Mr. Casino's commercial litigation and arbitration experience at the trial and appellate levels include supervising complex litigation of customs and Freedom of Information Act issues for major automobile manufacturers; handling issues arising from the bankruptcy of a national airline; and serving as lead counsel representing cities and other parties in U.S. Census-related litigation. He has also litigated matters in the areas of real estate, director liability, investment advisor, free speech, religious freedom, human rights, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, executive termination, employment, lending, business torts and shareholder derivative claims. Mr. Casino has also advised corporations and universities regarding export control compliance, deemed exports, voluntary self-disclosures, penalties and related issues. Mr. Casino earned his B.S. from the University of Maryland and his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP is pleased to announce that 13 of its partners have been named by Lawdragon as finalists for the publication†s 2007 Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America. Katten attorneys selected as Lawdragon 500 finalists include David H. Kistenbroker (Securities Litigation), Nina B. Matis (Real Estate), Ross O. Silverman (White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation), Herbert S. Wander (Corporate) and Sheldon T. Zenner (White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation) of the Chicago office; Andrew M. Katzenstein (Trusts and Estates), Zia F. Modabber (Litigation and Dispute Resolution), Gail Migdal Title (Entertainment and Media) and Bruce G. Vanyo (Securities Litigation) of the Los Angeles office; Henry Bregstein (Financial Services) and Sheri P. Chromow (Real Estate) of the New York office; and Roger P. Furey (Intellectual Property Litigation) and S. Scott Morrison (Real Estate Litigation) of the Washington office. Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP is pleased to announce that 13 of its partners have been named by Lawdragon as finalists for the publication†s 2007 Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America. Katten attorneys selected as Lawdragon 500 finalists include David H. Kistenbroker (Securities Litigation), Nina B. Matis (Real Estate), Ross O. Silverman (White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation), Herbert S. Wander (Corporate) and Sheldon T. Zenner (White Collar Criminal and Civil Litigation) of the Chicago office; Andrew M. Katzenstein (Trusts and Estates), Zia F. Modabber (Litigation and Dispute Resolution), Gail Migdal Title (Entertainment and Media) and Bruce G. Vanyo (Securities Litigation) of the Los Angeles office; Henry Bregstein (Financial Services) and Sheri P. Chromow (Real Estate) of the New York office; and Roger P. Furey (Intellectual Property Litigation) and S. Scott Morrison (Real Estate Litigation) of the Washington office. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1229 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1229&page=8 Address : 227 West Trade Street, Phone : 704-348-5100, City : Charlotte Cadwalader has axed 35 attorneys in their global finance and capital markets divisions. This move has been widely seen as a harbinger of the current financial markets crisis hitting home. Cadwalader has axed 35 attorneys in their global finance and capital markets divisions. This move has been widely seen as a harbinger of the current financial markets crisis hitting home. Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP announced that for the second consecutive year, the firm has received a score of 95 from The Human Rights Campaign in its Corporate Equality Index report. The report, released each fall, provides an indepth analysis and rating of large U.S. employers and their policies and practices pertinent to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) employees, consumers, and investors. ‽I am very proud of our rating from The Human Rights Campaign,” said Robert O. Link Jr., Cadwalader†s Chairman and Managing Partner. ‽Cadwalader makes great efforts to promote and enhance diversity at the firm. We strive to help all of our personnel understand and support our individual differences.” Cadwalader received perfect scores in the survey for the firm†s GLBT policies relating to nondiscrimination, diversity training, domestic partner health insurance and other benefits, companysupported resources, and marketing. The ratings are based on a comprehensive survey submitted by the firm or company being evaluated. The Human Rights Campaign is the nation†s largest advocacy group for GLBT Americans. Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP announced that for the second consecutive year, the firm has received a score of 95 from The Human Rights Campaign in its Corporate Equality Index report. The report, released each fall, provides an indepth analysis and rating of large U.S. employers and their policies and practices pertinent to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) employees, consumers, and investors. ‽I am very proud of our rating from The Human Rights Campaign,” said Robert O. Link Jr., Cadwalader†s Chairman and Managing Partner. ‽Cadwalader makes great efforts to promote and enhance diversity at the firm. We strive to help all of our personnel understand and support our individual differences.” Cadwalader received perfect scores in the survey for the firm†s GLBT policies relating to nondiscrimination, diversity training, domestic partner health insurance and other benefits, companysupported resources, and marketing. The ratings are based on a comprehensive survey submitted by the firm or company being evaluated. The Human Rights Campaign is the nation†s largest advocacy group for GLBT Americans. Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP acted for Wachovia Securities International Limited as lead arranger for two AIG floating-rate facilities with a combined value of more than â'¬1.4 billion. The transactions, which closed on July 25, 2007 and August 9, 2007, respectively, were for â'¬850 million secured floating-rate facilities issued by AIG MezzVest Investments II Limited and â'¬575 million secured floating-rate facilities issued by AIG MezzVest Investments Limited. Both deals were rated-to-model transactions not commonly seen in the Euromarkets. The facilities are available in euros, British pounds sterling, and U.S. dollars, and have been rated by both Standard & Poor†s and Moody†s. The proceeds of the issued facilities will be invested in a portfolio of predominantly European second-lien and mezzanineleveraged loans, which will be managed by MezzVest. The portfolio management for both transactions is based on a rating agency approved trading model that incorporates Standard & Poor†s and Moody†s cash flow stress and criteria. One of the most notable features of the transactions is that the portfolio manager needs to run the trading model throughout the period of the transactions rather than merely at closing. Both transactions are based on a manage-to-model approach providing more flexibility to the collateral manager, as opposed to the more typical managed-to-constraint approach for CLOs. Partner Angus Duncan led Cadwalader†s Capital Markets Department team representing Wachovia, assisted by associate Peter ten Broeke. Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP acted for Wachovia Securities International Limited as lead arranger for two AIG floating-rate facilities with a combined value of more than â'¬1.4 billion. The transactions, which closed on July 25, 2007 and August 9, 2007, respectively, were for â'¬850 million secured floating-rate facilities issued by AIG MezzVest Investments II Limited and â'¬575 million secured floating-rate facilities issued by AIG MezzVest Investments Limited. Both deals were rated-to-model transactions not commonly seen in the Euromarkets. The facilities are available in euros, British pounds sterling, and U.S. dollars, and have been rated by both Standard & Poor†s and Moody†s. The proceeds of the issued facilities will be invested in a portfolio of predominantly European second-lien and mezzanineleveraged loans, which will be managed by MezzVest. The portfolio management for both transactions is based on a rating agency approved trading model that incorporates Standard & Poor†s and Moody†s cash flow stress and criteria. One of the most notable features of the transactions is that the portfolio manager needs to run the trading model throughout the period of the transactions rather than merely at closing. Both transactions are based on a manage-to-model approach providing more flexibility to the collateral manager, as opposed to the more typical managed-to-constraint approach for CLOs. Partner Angus Duncan led Cadwalader†s Capital Markets Department team representing Wachovia, assisted by associate Peter ten Broeke. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=348 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=348&page=9 Address : Bank of America Corporate Center100 North Tryon Street , Suite 4000, Phone : 704-339-3100, City : Charlotte Dechert LLP's strongest ever year in their international practice has helped offset the weakening US markets. Dechert LLP's strongest ever year in their international practice has helped offset the weakening US markets. Dechert LLP, a large Pennsylvania firm, is opening an office of Hong Kong and establishing a formal association with Hwang & co. Dechert is the latest large Pennsylvanian firm to open an office in Hong Kong. Dechert plans on opening an office in Mainland China soon, most likely in 2008. Dechert LLP, a large Pennsylvania firm, is opening an office of Hong Kong and establishing a formal association with Hwang & co. Dechert is the latest large Pennsylvanian firm to open an office in Hong Kong. Dechert plans on opening an office in Mainland China soon, most likely in 2008. Dechert LLP announced today that Samuel B. Abrams has joined the firm as a partner in the firm's Intellectual Property practice group. He will be based in the firm's New York office. Abrams was previously with Jones Day. Abrams focuses on strategic patent counseling and prosecution and also has extensive experience handling interference proceedings and European oppositions on behalf of companies in the biotechnology, chemical, pharmaceutical, drug delivery, and immunology sectors. "Sam's broad-ranging experience in intellectual property, particularly in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical fields, will be a key addition to the strategic counsel we provide to our clients," said Dechert chairman Barton J. Winokur. "His experience counseling on complex multinational issues will be a major asset to the practice and to the firm." Abrams works with his clients to find strategic and novel ways to monetize and maximize their patents, and he handles the full range of patent analyses and opinions. Most recently, he spearheaded a litigation team that prevailed in a patent infringement action on behalf of Martek that related to Omega-III fatty acids. "Sam brings to the firm impressive skills and considerable experience advising clients on complex intellectual property matters," said Dr. Ann M. Caviani Pease, chair of Dechert's patent practice. "A nationally recognized expert in U.S. patent interferences and foreign oppositions, Sam's broad experience will significantly enhance our worldwide IP counseling capabilities. His presence in New York will complement our strong IP transactions practice there. On the personal side, I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with Sam in the past and am pleased to have the opportunity to do so again." Abrams, a graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (B.S., 1978) and Case Western Reserve University (J.D., 1981), worked at Pennie & Edmonds from 1987-2003 and has experience in the patent departments at Merck and Procter & Gamble. He is admitted to practice in New York and is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. He is a member of the American Intellectual Property Association and the New York Patent, Trademark and Copyright Law Association. "Dechert's IP practice will provide exciting opportunities and allow me to interact with some talented attorneys whom I've worked with over the years. Dechert LLP announced today that Samuel B. Abrams has joined the firm as a partner in the firm's Intellectual Property practice group. He will be based in the firm's New York office. Abrams was previously with Jones Day. Abrams focuses on strategic patent counseling and prosecution and also has extensive experience handling interference proceedings and European oppositions on behalf of companies in the biotechnology, chemical, pharmaceutical, drug delivery, and immunology sectors. "Sam's broad-ranging experience in intellectual property, particularly in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical fields, will be a key addition to the strategic counsel we provide to our clients," said Dechert chairman Barton J. Winokur. "His experience counseling on complex multinational issues will be a major asset to the practice and to the firm." Abrams works with his clients to find strategic and novel ways to monetize and maximize their patents, and he handles the full range of patent analyses and opinions. Most recently, he spearheaded a litigation team that prevailed in a patent infringement action on behalf of Martek that related to Omega-III fatty acids. "Sam brings to the firm impressive skills and considerable experience advising clients on complex intellectual property matters," said Dr. Ann M. Caviani Pease, chair of Dechert's patent practice. "A nationally recognized expert in U.S. patent interferences and foreign oppositions, Sam's broad experience will significantly enhance our worldwide IP counseling capabilities. His presence in New York will complement our strong IP transactions practice there. On the personal side, I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with Sam in the past and am pleased to have the opportunity to do so again." Abrams, a graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (B.S., 1978) and Case Western Reserve University (J.D., 1981), worked at Pennie & Edmonds from 1987-2003 and has experience in the patent departments at Merck and Procter & Gamble. He is admitted to practice in New York and is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. He is a member of the American Intellectual Property Association and the New York Patent, Trademark and Copyright Law Association. "Dechert's IP practice will provide exciting opportunities and allow me to interact with some talented attorneys whom I've worked with over the years. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=604 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=604&page=10 Address : 100 North Tryon StreetSuite 2900 ,, Phone : 704-373-8999, City : Charlotte 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=11 Address : 10150 Mallard Creek RoadSuite 105 ,, Phone : 704-369-7012, City : Charlotte The sale of Employease, Inc. to Automatic Data Processing Inc. (NYSE:ADP) has won a 2006 Catalyst Award for Deal of the Year. The yearly Catalyst Awards honor leading Atlanta-area entrepreneurs and their companies. The transaction was featured in the December Business to Business magazine. Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP partner Edward D. Hirsch and associate Scott Allen represented Norcross software-as-a-service provider Employease Inc. in the August sale of the company to ADP. Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP, (www.mmmlaw.com) enjoys national prominence for its corporate finance, securities, litigation, technology, real estate and real estate capital markets, environmental, insurance and healthcare practices. The firm has offices in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham and Princeton. The sale of Employease, Inc. to Automatic Data Processing Inc. (NYSE:ADP) has won a 2006 Catalyst Award for Deal of the Year. The yearly Catalyst Awards honor leading Atlanta-area entrepreneurs and their companies. The transaction was featured in the December Business to Business magazine. Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP partner Edward D. Hirsch and associate Scott Allen represented Norcross software-as-a-service provider Employease Inc. in the August sale of the company to ADP. Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP, (www.mmmlaw.com) enjoys national prominence for its corporate finance, securities, litigation, technology, real estate and real estate capital markets, environmental, insurance and healthcare practices. The firm has offices in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham and Princeton. Gwinnett magazine counts Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP among the best law firms in the county. The publication honored the firm by including it in the 2006 Best of Gwinnett issue in the ‽Best Law Firm” category. The winners were chosen by the magazine†s readers. The editors note that the business honored range from ‽perennial favorites to those just beginning to generate a buzz.” In 2005, real estate law firm Patton & Fletcher, LLC was included in the Best of Gwinnett. This fall, the firm merged with Morris, Manning & Martin, which means it made the list two years in a row. ‽It†s wonderful,” says real estate Partner Ginger Patton-Schmitt. ‽This is what happens when the best joins the best. It reinforces that the decision to merge was a good one.” In addition to its Buckhead headquarters, Morris, Manning & Martin has metro Atlanta offices in Duluth, Suwanee, the Northside area, Alpharetta, Cumming, Kennesaw and Woodstock. Its thriving real estate practice provides residential real estate services, land acquisition and development transactions; mixed-use developments; construction law; financial transactions and loan closings. Gwinnett magazine counts Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP among the best law firms in the county. The publication honored the firm by including it in the 2006 Best of Gwinnett issue in the ‽Best Law Firm” category. The winners were chosen by the magazine†s readers. The editors note that the business honored range from ‽perennial favorites to those just beginning to generate a buzz.” In 2005, real estate law firm Patton & Fletcher, LLC was included in the Best of Gwinnett. This fall, the firm merged with Morris, Manning & Martin, which means it made the list two years in a row. ‽It†s wonderful,” says real estate Partner Ginger Patton-Schmitt. ‽This is what happens when the best joins the best. It reinforces that the decision to merge was a good one.” In addition to its Buckhead headquarters, Morris, Manning & Martin has metro Atlanta offices in Duluth, Suwanee, the Northside area, Alpharetta, Cumming, Kennesaw and Woodstock. Its thriving real estate practice provides residential real estate services, land acquisition and development transactions; mixed-use developments; construction law; financial transactions and loan closings. The right benefits and compensation are key to attracting and retaining employees, especially for technology companies. Morris, Manning & Martin Partner Bruce Wynn will speak on the importance of alternative compensation plans at an upcoming Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) event. The TAG Tax & Finance society will host the program, titled Using Alternative Compensation Plans to Attract and Retain Key Personnel. The breakfast event will be held Tuesday, August 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. ‽Salary is just one part of a competitive compensation package,” Wynn says. ‽CEOs should also consider matching 401 (k) plans, deferred compensation plans, stock option and/or stock purchase plans. But there†s a lot that company leaders should know about planning, diversifying investments, and keeping up with changing laws and regulations,” he adds. Wynn has more than 20 years experience with employee benefits and executive compensation, and has counseled both small businesses and Fortune 500 companies on their benefit plans. He has extensive experience with tax-qualified retirement plans, employee welfare benefit plans and nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements, as well as equity compensation arrangements such as stock option plans and restricted stock arrangements. Wynn has also been a frequent speaker on tax, benefits, executive compensation and ERISA-related topics. In addition to Wynn, Patrick Ungashick of White Horse Advisors and Kevin Cruse of HR Cruse & Associates, LLC will also serve on the panel, which John Carpentier of Tarpley & Underwood will moderate. The seminar will be held in the Hodges Connection Room on the third floor of the Centergy Building at 75 Fifth Street in Midtown. The right benefits and compensation are key to attracting and retaining employees, especially for technology companies. Morris, Manning & Martin Partner Bruce Wynn will speak on the importance of alternative compensation plans at an upcoming Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) event. The TAG Tax & Finance society will host the program, titled Using Alternative Compensation Plans to Attract and Retain Key Personnel. The breakfast event will be held Tuesday, August 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. ‽Salary is just one part of a competitive compensation package,” Wynn says. ‽CEOs should also consider matching 401 (k) plans, deferred compensation plans, stock option and/or stock purchase plans. But there†s a lot that company leaders should know about planning, diversifying investments, and keeping up with changing laws and regulations,” he adds. Wynn has more than 20 years experience with employee benefits and executive compensation, and has counseled both small businesses and Fortune 500 companies on their benefit plans. He has extensive experience with tax-qualified retirement plans, employee welfare benefit plans and nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements, as well as equity compensation arrangements such as stock option plans and restricted stock arrangements. Wynn has also been a frequent speaker on tax, benefits, executive compensation and ERISA-related topics. In addition to Wynn, Patrick Ungashick of White Horse Advisors and Kevin Cruse of HR Cruse & Associates, LLC will also serve on the panel, which John Carpentier of Tarpley & Underwood will moderate. The seminar will be held in the Hodges Connection Room on the third floor of the Centergy Building at 75 Fifth Street in Midtown. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1707 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1707&page=12 Address : 100 North Tryon Street42nd Floor ,, Phone : 704-417-3000, City : Charlotte Three new associates have joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough in its Raleigh office: Elizabeth B. Frock represents health care providers in litigation, transactions and regulatory proceedings. She earned her Juris Doctor, cum laude, in 2007 from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, where she received honors in both Legal Research Writing and Appellate Advocacy. She was a member of the Justice Campbell Thornal Moot Court Team, where she served on the Executive Board. At the 2007 George Mason University Law and Economics Moot Court Competition, she was a semi-finalist and won the award for best brief. She also studied abroad in Paris and Montpellier, France. A former Nelson Mullins summer associate, prior to law school she worked as a legal assistant for a law firm in Washington, D.C., where she gained experience in products liability. She earned an A.B. degree in Politics and Economics in 2002 from Princeton University. While at Princeton, she was a member of the Varsity Swim Team. Kelli Goss Hopkins, AIA, a North Carolina licensed architect, practices in the areas of construction law and government contracts. Ms. Hopkins is admitted to practice in all North Carolina State courts. Before law school, she was a partner in a prominent architectural firm in Raleigh, N.C., where she served as director of Commercial & Corporate Architecture. Ms. Hopkins designed, managed, and supervised construction administration on notable multimillion-dollar projects including 510 Glenwood Avenue Mixed Use project, Baity Hill Married Student Housing for UNC Chapel Hill, and the Capital Park Community Center. Ms. Hopkins has been involved in all phases of commercial, governmental, and institutional projects. Her experience includes schematic design, design development, construction documents, building code compliance, and building permit reviews at the city level and with State Construction. She has appeared before town councils, appearance commissions, and boards of trustees. She earned a Juris Doctor in 2007 from the University of North Carolina School of Law and a Master of Architecture degree from North Carolina State University School of Design. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Design from Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. Farah Lisa Whitley-Sebti practices in the area of business litigation, with a focus on defending cases for financial services industry clients, including claims arising under the Truth in Lending Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, state unfair or deceptive trade practices acts, predatory lending and usury statutes, and state common law claim theories. Before attending law school, Ms. Whitley-Sebti worked in New York City for a major national magazine in marketing, public relations, and promotions. She earned her Juris Doctor in 2007 from the University of North Carolina School of Law and also studied at La Sorbonne University in Paris. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in 1999 from East Carolina University and also attended Duke University. She is conversational in French. Three new associates have joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough in its Raleigh office: Elizabeth B. Frock represents health care providers in litigation, transactions and regulatory proceedings. She earned her Juris Doctor, cum laude, in 2007 from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, where she received honors in both Legal Research Writing and Appellate Advocacy. She was a member of the Justice Campbell Thornal Moot Court Team, where she served on the Executive Board. At the 2007 George Mason University Law and Economics Moot Court Competition, she was a semi-finalist and won the award for best brief. She also studied abroad in Paris and Montpellier, France. A former Nelson Mullins summer associate, prior to law school she worked as a legal assistant for a law firm in Washington, D.C., where she gained experience in products liability. She earned an A.B. degree in Politics and Economics in 2002 from Princeton University. While at Princeton, she was a member of the Varsity Swim Team. Kelli Goss Hopkins, AIA, a North Carolina licensed architect, practices in the areas of construction law and government contracts. Ms. Hopkins is admitted to practice in all North Carolina State courts. Before law school, she was a partner in a prominent architectural firm in Raleigh, N.C., where she served as director of Commercial & Corporate Architecture. Ms. Hopkins designed, managed, and supervised construction administration on notable multimillion-dollar projects including 510 Glenwood Avenue Mixed Use project, Baity Hill Married Student Housing for UNC Chapel Hill, and the Capital Park Community Center. Ms. Hopkins has been involved in all phases of commercial, governmental, and institutional projects. Her experience includes schematic design, design development, construction documents, building code compliance, and building permit reviews at the city level and with State Construction. She has appeared before town councils, appearance commissions, and boards of trustees. She earned a Juris Doctor in 2007 from the University of North Carolina School of Law and a Master of Architecture degree from North Carolina State University School of Design. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Design from Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. Farah Lisa Whitley-Sebti practices in the area of business litigation, with a focus on defending cases for financial services industry clients, including claims arising under the Truth in Lending Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, state unfair or deceptive trade practices acts, predatory lending and usury statutes, and state common law claim theories. Before attending law school, Ms. Whitley-Sebti worked in New York City for a major national magazine in marketing, public relations, and promotions. She earned her Juris Doctor in 2007 from the University of North Carolina School of Law and also studied at La Sorbonne University in Paris. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in 1999 from East Carolina University and also attended Duke University. She is conversational in French. Two attorneys with extensive corporate experience, particularly in the health care industry, have joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough in its Washington office, boosting the Firm's ability to serve its corporate and health care clients from the nation's capital. Attorney Alexis GilroyHelen Elisabeth Quick joins the Firm as a partner focusing her practice in corporate, health care and securities, while Alexis Slagle Gilroy joins as an associate and advises clients on a wide range of corporate, tax, and regulatory issues. Ms. Quick has an extensive history advising clients on a wide range of corporate, tax, employment, and regulatory issues both within and outside the health care field. Her experience includes structuring, negotiating, and documenting purchase and sale transactions, mergers, joint ventures, private financings such as asset-based, cash-flow and real estate loan transactions, and private equity and venture capital equity transactions. In addition, Ms. Quick provides legal guidance regarding general contracting, licensing, and strategic planning matter, and she regularly assists clients with implementing the building blocks of an effective corporate governance and compliance program. Ms. Quick is the co-author with Lynn Shapiro Snyder, founder of the Woman Business Leaders of the Healthcare Industry Foundation and a senior partner at Epstein, Becker & Green, P.C., of ‽Answering the Call: Understanding the Duties Risks and Rewards of Corporate Governance.” Ms. Quick is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Maryland. She is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and the Women Business Leaders of the Health Care Industry Foundation. Prior to joining the Firm, Ms. Quick worked for the last five years as a partner at the leading health care law firm in Washington, D.C. Her experience also includes spending nearly five years as in house counsel for two technology companies, most recently as Vice President and General Counsel for a Washington, D.C. based broadband communications company. Ms. Quick began her career as a corporate transactional attorney for a total of six years at two leading law firms in Washington, D.C., and New York. In 1991, Ms. Quick earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Philosophy from the University of Virginia in 1988. Also experienced in the representation of clients in the health care industry, Ms. Gilroy provides strategic advice, negotiates, and documents transactions involving private debt and equity, joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, governance issues, licensing requirements, corporate reorganizations and general and complex contractual arrangements. Ms. Gilroy is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and the State of Georgia. She is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association, the District of Columbia Bar, the State of Georgia Bar, and the National Association of Women Lawyers. In 2002, Ms. Gilroy earned a Juris Doctor from American University, Washington College of Law. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, with honors and distinction, as a Morehead Scholar and Dean's Fellow from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1998. Two attorneys with extensive corporate experience, particularly in the health care industry, have joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough in its Washington office, boosting the Firm's ability to serve its corporate and health care clients from the nation's capital. Attorney Alexis GilroyHelen Elisabeth Quick joins the Firm as a partner focusing her practice in corporate, health care and securities, while Alexis Slagle Gilroy joins as an associate and advises clients on a wide range of corporate, tax, and regulatory issues. Ms. Quick has an extensive history advising clients on a wide range of corporate, tax, employment, and regulatory issues both within and outside the health care field. Her experience includes structuring, negotiating, and documenting purchase and sale transactions, mergers, joint ventures, private financings such as asset-based, cash-flow and real estate loan transactions, and private equity and venture capital equity transactions. In addition, Ms. Quick provides legal guidance regarding general contracting, licensing, and strategic planning matter, and she regularly assists clients with implementing the building blocks of an effective corporate governance and compliance program. Ms. Quick is the co-author with Lynn Shapiro Snyder, founder of the Woman Business Leaders of the Healthcare Industry Foundation and a senior partner at Epstein, Becker & Green, P.C., of ‽Answering the Call: Understanding the Duties Risks and Rewards of Corporate Governance.” Ms. Quick is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Maryland. She is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and the Women Business Leaders of the Health Care Industry Foundation. Prior to joining the Firm, Ms. Quick worked for the last five years as a partner at the leading health care law firm in Washington, D.C. Her experience also includes spending nearly five years as in house counsel for two technology companies, most recently as Vice President and General Counsel for a Washington, D.C. based broadband communications company. Ms. Quick began her career as a corporate transactional attorney for a total of six years at two leading law firms in Washington, D.C., and New York. In 1991, Ms. Quick earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Philosophy from the University of Virginia in 1988. Also experienced in the representation of clients in the health care industry, Ms. Gilroy provides strategic advice, negotiates, and documents transactions involving private debt and equity, joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, governance issues, licensing requirements, corporate reorganizations and general and complex contractual arrangements. Ms. Gilroy is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and the State of Georgia. She is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association, the District of Columbia Bar, the State of Georgia Bar, and the National Association of Women Lawyers. In 2002, Ms. Gilroy earned a Juris Doctor from American University, Washington College of Law. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, with honors and distinction, as a Morehead Scholar and Dean's Fellow from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1998. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough Partner George B. Wolfe has returned to Columbia to resume full-time his South Carolina-focused practice after three years as managing partner of the Firm's Washington office. He will focus primarily on economic development issues along with corporate and governmental law. "I have spent most of my professional life working to promote economic development in South Carolina, and it is great to move back home to rededicate myself fully to that mission," Mr. Wolfe said. Mr. Wolfe oversaw the Washington office's growth after its opening in 2004 to its current 23 attorneys and governmental consultants. He will continue to represent clients in Washington. Mr. Wolfe chairs the Firm's Economic Development Practice Group. He has represented numerous foreign and domestic companies making new or expanded investments in South Carolina, including some of the largest investments in the history of the state. For his work in economic development, Mr. Wolfe has twice been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian award given by a South Carolina governor, and the South Carolina Department of Revenue Public Service Award. Mr. Wolfe returned to Nelson Mullins in 2004 after serving three years in the administration of President George W. Bush as Deputy General Counsel and Counselor to the Secretary for the Department of the Treasury. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough Partner George B. Wolfe has returned to Columbia to resume full-time his South Carolina-focused practice after three years as managing partner of the Firm's Washington office. He will focus primarily on economic development issues along with corporate and governmental law. "I have spent most of my professional life working to promote economic development in South Carolina, and it is great to move back home to rededicate myself fully to that mission," Mr. Wolfe said. Mr. Wolfe oversaw the Washington office's growth after its opening in 2004 to its current 23 attorneys and governmental consultants. He will continue to represent clients in Washington. Mr. Wolfe chairs the Firm's Economic Development Practice Group. He has represented numerous foreign and domestic companies making new or expanded investments in South Carolina, including some of the largest investments in the history of the state. For his work in economic development, Mr. Wolfe has twice been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian award given by a South Carolina governor, and the South Carolina Department of Revenue Public Service Award. Mr. Wolfe returned to Nelson Mullins in 2004 after serving three years in the administration of President George W. Bush as Deputy General Counsel and Counselor to the Secretary for the Department of the Treasury. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1750 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1750&page=13 Address : 4201 Congress StreetSuite 460 ,, Phone : 704-643-3220, City : Charlotte Max R. Rodden has recently joined the litigation section of Smith Debnam Narron Wyche Saintsing & Myers, LLP. He will concentrate his practice in family law and civil litigation. Mr. Rodden earned his J.D. from Wake Forest University Law School in 1991 and his B.S. in Business, cum laude, from Wake Forest University in 1985. He has practiced law in North Carolina since 1991 and specialized in family law since 1992. Mr. Rodden has extensive trial experience and has represented clients at all levels of North Carolina courts. He has participated in numerous mediations and arbitrations in family law and other civil litigation cases. He has also appeared in bankruptcy court to protect creditor rights of family law clients. Mr. Rodden represents clients in all aspects of family law, including absolute divorce, child custody and support, equitable distribution, alimony, name change, adoption, post-marital agreements, pre-marital agreements, annulment, grandparent custody and visitation, termination of parental rights, abuse and neglect proceedings, divorce from bed and board, legitimation, paternity, domestic violence and marital torts. Max R. Rodden has recently joined the litigation section of Smith Debnam Narron Wyche Saintsing & Myers, LLP. He will concentrate his practice in family law and civil litigation. Mr. Rodden earned his J.D. from Wake Forest University Law School in 1991 and his B.S. in Business, cum laude, from Wake Forest University in 1985. He has practiced law in North Carolina since 1991 and specialized in family law since 1992. Mr. Rodden has extensive trial experience and has represented clients at all levels of North Carolina courts. He has participated in numerous mediations and arbitrations in family law and other civil litigation cases. He has also appeared in bankruptcy court to protect creditor rights of family law clients. Mr. Rodden represents clients in all aspects of family law, including absolute divorce, child custody and support, equitable distribution, alimony, name change, adoption, post-marital agreements, pre-marital agreements, annulment, grandparent custody and visitation, termination of parental rights, abuse and neglect proceedings, divorce from bed and board, legitimation, paternity, domestic violence and marital torts. Bettie Kelley Sousa, Partner, will be attending a Women In Law Breakfast with Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on September 22, 2006. Sponsored by the Wake Forest University School of Law, the event will be held at the Graylyn Conference Center and follows a presentation by Justice O'Connor the prior afternoon at Wait Chapel on the Wake Forest campus. Bettie Kelley Sousa, Partner, will be attending a Women In Law Breakfast with Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on September 22, 2006. Sponsored by the Wake Forest University School of Law, the event will be held at the Graylyn Conference Center and follows a presentation by Justice O'Connor the prior afternoon at Wait Chapel on the Wake Forest campus. Attorney Franklin Drake was recently elected Mayor Pro Tem of Wake Forest. He previously served as the Town Commissioner. Mr. Drake is also actively involved in his community's efforts to preserve and restore historic sites and homes. Mr. Drake has over 27 years of legal experience. He concentrates his practice in the areas of creditors†rights, creditors†bankruptcy, and commercial litigation. He has worked with credit unions, banking and financial institutions, consumer and commercial lenders, and student loan agencies to enforce contracts, minimize losses, and fight fraud. Attorney Franklin Drake was recently elected Mayor Pro Tem of Wake Forest. He previously served as the Town Commissioner. Mr. Drake is also actively involved in his community's efforts to preserve and restore historic sites and homes. Mr. Drake has over 27 years of legal experience. He concentrates his practice in the areas of creditors†rights, creditors†bankruptcy, and commercial litigation. He has worked with credit unions, banking and financial institutions, consumer and commercial lenders, and student loan agencies to enforce contracts, minimize losses, and fight fraud. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2214 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2214&page=14 Address : One Wachovia CenterSuite 3500 , 301 South College Street, Phone : 704-331-4900, City : Charlotte Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC today announced that Burley Mitchell has been appointed to the Board of Trustees for the new Charlotte School of Law. Charlotte School of Law (CharlotteLaw) is a new, student-centered law school offering full-time and flexible day and evening part-time programs beginning in August 2006. CharlotteLaw is committed to a mission with an educational model that is focused on the highest academic standards and student success. CharlotteLaw is part of the InfiLaw System, a consortium of independent, community-based law schools that is making legal education more responsive to a changing legal profession. The InfiLaw mission is to launch student-centered, American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law schools that graduate students with the skills of second-year law associates. ""I'm very honored to be appointed to the Board of Trustees for this new educational institution,"" Mitchell said. ""I look forward to serving along with some very esteemed legal and professional individuals to help guide and build on the foundation of this new school."" Mitchell joined Womble Carlyle during 1999 and is a member of the firm's Government Relations Practice Group. Prior to joining Womble Carlyle, he served as chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. Before his 17 year tenure on the N.C. Supreme Court, Mitchell was a judge in the N.C. Court of Appeals, secretary of the N.C. Department of Crime Control and Public Safety, district attorney in Wake County and assistant N.C. attorney general. He has served as a member of the Governor's Crime Commission since 1977 and chaired the Governor's Advisory Board on Prisons and Punishment. In 2004, Mitchell was honored with the Citation for Distinguished Public Service from the North Carolina Citizens for Business and Industry (NCCBI). Mitchell currently serves on the Board of Trustees of North Carolina State University and also serves on the Board of Directors for Raleigh's North State Bank. Mitchell is a former president of the NC State Alumni Association Board of Directors, and was named the University's Outstanding Alumnus for 1990. Charlotte School of Law is governed by a regional Board of Trustees and The InfiLaw System National Policy Board. Both boards include national and international authorities in law, education, government and business. These leaders provide counsel on the strategic direction and long-term plans for the InfiLaw System of independent law schools, and help develop best practices for all of the law schools. The Board of Trustees is chaired by the Honorable Shirley Fulton, former North Carolina Superior Court Judge, and the National Policy Board is chaired by Dennis Archer, past president of the American Bar Association. Other Board members with whom Mitchell will serve include: Henry Ramsey Jr., dean of Howard University School of Law; Richard A. Matasar, dean and president of New York Law School; Arthur J. Gallagher, president of Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus; and Leigh Taylor, dean emeritus and professor of law emeritus at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC today announced that Burley Mitchell has been appointed to the Board of Trustees for the new Charlotte School of Law. Charlotte School of Law (CharlotteLaw) is a new, student-centered law school offering full-time and flexible day and evening part-time programs beginning in August 2006. CharlotteLaw is committed to a mission with an educational model that is focused on the highest academic standards and student success. CharlotteLaw is part of the InfiLaw System, a consortium of independent, community-based law schools that is making legal education more responsive to a changing legal profession. The InfiLaw mission is to launch student-centered, American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law schools that graduate students with the skills of second-year law associates. ""I'm very honored to be appointed to the Board of Trustees for this new educational institution,"" Mitchell said. ""I look forward to serving along with some very esteemed legal and professional individuals to help guide and build on the foundation of this new school."" Mitchell joined Womble Carlyle during 1999 and is a member of the firm's Government Relations Practice Group. Prior to joining Womble Carlyle, he served as chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. Before his 17 year tenure on the N.C. Supreme Court, Mitchell was a judge in the N.C. Court of Appeals, secretary of the N.C. Department of Crime Control and Public Safety, district attorney in Wake County and assistant N.C. attorney general. He has served as a member of the Governor's Crime Commission since 1977 and chaired the Governor's Advisory Board on Prisons and Punishment. In 2004, Mitchell was honored with the Citation for Distinguished Public Service from the North Carolina Citizens for Business and Industry (NCCBI). Mitchell currently serves on the Board of Trustees of North Carolina State University and also serves on the Board of Directors for Raleigh's North State Bank. Mitchell is a former president of the NC State Alumni Association Board of Directors, and was named the University's Outstanding Alumnus for 1990. Charlotte School of Law is governed by a regional Board of Trustees and The InfiLaw System National Policy Board. Both boards include national and international authorities in law, education, government and business. These leaders provide counsel on the strategic direction and long-term plans for the InfiLaw System of independent law schools, and help develop best practices for all of the law schools. The Board of Trustees is chaired by the Honorable Shirley Fulton, former North Carolina Superior Court Judge, and the National Policy Board is chaired by Dennis Archer, past president of the American Bar Association. Other Board members with whom Mitchell will serve include: Henry Ramsey Jr., dean of Howard University School of Law; Richard A. Matasar, dean and president of New York Law School; Arthur J. Gallagher, president of Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus; and Leigh Taylor, dean emeritus and professor of law emeritus at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. When Supreme Court Justices asked counsel in oral argument of Burlington Northern & Santa Fe Railway v. White whether an ‽adverse employment action” could be something as simple as not inviting an employee to lunch, the discussion seemed to highlight how petty some retaliation claims have become. It was, therefore, a surprise when a unanimous court concluded that virtually anything may be enough to form a basis for a federal court case. Sheila White was the only woman working in the Maintenance of Way department at BNSF†s Tennessee Yard. She had been hired based in part on her previous experience operating forklifts, but her job title was ‽track laborer,” a physically demanding assignment encompassing a variety of tasks. From the beginning, White was assigned to operate the only forklift in the yard because another employee, Ellis, elected to forego forklift duties in order to receive higher per diem pay on a ‽mobile crew.” Forklift operation was White†s primary, but not sole, duty. Less than three months after she began work, White complained that her foreman, Bill Joiner, ‽had repeatedly told her that women should not be working in the Maintenance of Way department” and had ‽made insulting and inappropriate remarks to her in front of her male colleagues” on two occasions. (Joiner admitted this was so; he had never supervised a woman and believed women should not work on a railroad.); Joiner was suspended for ten days and ordered to attend a sexual-harassment training session. When this outcome of her complaint was communicated to White, she was also informed that she was being removed from forklift duty because of co-worker complaints that ‽a more senior man should have the less arduous and cleaner job of forklift operator.”; Ellis, who had been one of the complainants, resumed the forklift duties because he was the only other employee qualified to do so. Two weeks later, White filed her first EEOC charge, claiming that the reassignment of her duties was both sex discrimination and retaliation for her complaint about her supervisor. Two months thereafter, she filed a second retaliation charge with EEOC, asserting; she had been placed under ‽surveillance” with her daily activities being monitored. Three days after the EEOC mailed the charge to BNSF, White and her new foreman, Percy Sharkey, disagreed about whether White could ride with him on a trip to a work site in Arkansas; White insisted she was entitled to ride with Sharkey due to her seniority. Sharkey reported the incident to higher management, and White was immediately suspended without pay due to ‽insubordination.” White filed a grievance through her collective bargaining representative, resulting in her reinstatement and back pay for the 37 days she had been suspended. Notwithstanding this ‽make-whole” remedy, White filed a third retaliation charge with the EEOC. All of these events, from White†s first complaint to her third charge, occurred in less than four months. A federal court jury in Tennessee awarded White $43,500.00 in compensatory damages, including $3,250 in medical expenses, for the retaliatory conduct of changing her job responsibilities and suspending her for 37 days without pay. A three-judge panel of the Sixth Circuit, in a 2-1 decision, reversed the result below and found in favor of BNSF, following which the full 13-judge court upheld the verdict below but strongly disagreed as to the appropriate standard to apply. The majority of the 13 judges, using the same test for retaliation as that which applies to a disparate treatment discrimination case, held that a plaintiff in a retaliation case must show an ‽adverse employment action,” defined as a ‽materially adverse change in the terms and conditions” of employment. BNSF sought Supreme Court review, pointing to conflicts between federal appellate courts concerning two issues:; (1); must action claimed to be retaliatory be ‽employment or workplace related,” and (2); how harmful must this action be to constitute retaliation? The Court reached three sweeping conclusions: Retaliation Claims Are Broader than Discrimination Claims. The provisions of Title VII which forbid retaliation aren†t limited to employmentâ€"related conduct.; Anything which might dissuade employees from complaining about discrimination is against the law; the two examples the Court gave are the FBI†s refusal to investigate death threats by a person toward an FBI agent and his wife, and filing false criminal charges against an employee. Cases dealing with employment discrimination in general are therefore not controlling. Anything which might chill employee complaints to EEOC is enough to trigger statutory protection. ‽Harm” Doesn†t Always Involve Money. Although attempting to stress that ‽material” adversity is necessary as a basis for a retaliation claim, because courts must ‽filter out complaints attacking â€~the ordinary tribulations of the workplace,†” and warning that a discrimination charge creates no immunity from ‽those petty slights and minor annoyances that often take place at work”, the Court makes it clear that the circumstances will determine whether retaliation exists; ‽context matters.” Schedule changes are important to mothers of young children; excluding an employee from ‽a weekly training lunch” could deter that person from complaining about discrimination. But context focuses on the impact the retaliatory act would have on a reasonable person who is similarly situated to the plaintiff â€" which may mean that in the scheduling example the zone of comparison is limited to reasonable mothers of small children. One Plus One Makes $43,500 â€" Plus Attorneys†Fees and Costs. Given the first two conclusions, the train followed those tracks to its inevitable destination:; The reassignment of duties within a single job classification was ‽materially adverse,” and the fully-remedied suspension was nonetheless retaliatory because ‽White and her family had to live 37 days without income,” a time period including the Christmas holidays, and White ‽obtained treatment for her emotional distress.” Case closed. There are numerous lessons to be learned from the White decision; not all of them are obvious: Separate functional responsibilities. The pivotal figure in the White scenario was the department head in that facility, Roadmaster Marvin Brown. Brown, along with HR Manager Cathy McGee, interviewed White for her job. (The; Court simply stated that Brown hired White.); Brown assigned White to operate the; forklift. Brown received the complaint that White had been treated differently from male employees by Joiner, her foreman. (McGee investigated the complaint, but this isn†t mentioned by the Court.); Brown removed White from the forklift assignment and gave it back to Ellis. Brown received the complaints from White†s co-workers before White complained about Joiner but he did not remove White from the forklift until after her complaint. Brown was the target of White†s second charge, which contended he had placed her under surveillance and checked on her daily activities. The EEOC mailed a copy of the second charge to Brown three days before her suspension for insubordination. Brown made the determination that White had been insubordinate based on a statement from White†s new foreman, Sharkey. ; Brown was involved in every aspect of BNSF†s dealing with White for the entire period in question. This is a recipe for disaster. Allowing a manager who has been accused of discrimination to continue to deal with the accuser on a day-to-day basis cannot help but create tension and an environment in which further complaints will flourish. It is, therefore, critical that employers ensure that complaints are presented to an objective party. Don†t weigh the merits of the underlying complaint. The White decision stresses that the court will look at the employer†s reaction to a complaint in determining whether the employer was out of bounds, without worrying about whether the complaint had merit. Complaints to the EEOC are presumed to be made in good faith; whether or not the employer believes a charge to be frivolous, it should be extremely careful in taking any adverse action, no matter how slight, which could later be argued to be retaliatory. While you may be able, somewhere down the road, to contend successfully that your reaction was warranted or that the charge was objectively meritless, such an approach can be guaranteed to produce yet more charges. The filing of a grievance under a union contract takes on a separate form of protection, that provided by §8(a)(4) of the National Labor Relations Act. Again, even a foolhardy grievance should be treated as serious, with the saving grace that the union may well adopt a more reasonable attitude toward the grievance than you would expect from an EEOC investigator. Finally, true ‽internal” complaints presented through a ‽chain of command” or through a special complaint procedure should be dealt with in a manner which is objectively fair. Think of principle, not principal. It is readily apparent that the jury verdict in White†s favor, even when added to the 37 days of back pay her union got for her, would have cost BNSF far less than the attorney†s fees, expenses, time and trouble devoted to litigating this case through to the Supreme Court. BNSF probably believed this was a ‽no harm, no foul” case, and that the courts would conclude that White had not been injured. But the Supreme Court†s resolution of the issue means that non-monetary claims can be litigated, with the real exposure to the employer being the potential for paying the plaintiff†s attorney†s fees and costs in addition to paying to defend itself. Moreover, following the Civil Rights Act of 1991, all sorts of compensatory damages, expert witness fees and the like may be borne by a losing defendant. Add to that the prospect of potentially crippling litigation costs in cases where email and other electronic communications are at issue and you have a threatening landscape indeed. Look at the facts again:; The employee worries about getting her job back and ‽obtains treatment for emotional distress.” Apparently that†s all it takes â€" and anyone can claim worry and seek treatment. In practice, it may not be that easy, but plaintiffs†attorneys have already begun to contend that the bar is so low as to be nonexistent. CONCLUSION We predict that the implications of the White decision will not be resolved for years to come. Trial courts may be reluctant to dismiss cases on summary judgment no matter how little is at stake. Unique factual situations will be dealt with case-by-case until a set of standards eventually emerges. Until that time, dealing with ‽squeaky wheels” in the workplace will entail extremely careful maintenance; policies, internal complaint procedures, disciplinary actions, evaluations, and every aspect of the employment relationship will need to be scrutinized to minimize exposure to retaliation claims. Supervisory training will take an even more crucial role in risk avoidance. If you have further questions about this topic or related topics, please feel free to contact the Labor & Employment Practice Group at Womble Carlyle. When Supreme Court Justices asked counsel in oral argument of Burlington Northern & Santa Fe Railway v. White whether an ‽adverse employment action” could be something as simple as not inviting an employee to lunch, the discussion seemed to highlight how petty some retaliation claims have become. It was, therefore, a surprise when a unanimous court concluded that virtually anything may be enough to form a basis for a federal court case. Sheila White was the only woman working in the Maintenance of Way department at BNSF†s Tennessee Yard. She had been hired based in part on her previous experience operating forklifts, but her job title was ‽track laborer,” a physically demanding assignment encompassing a variety of tasks. From the beginning, White was assigned to operate the only forklift in the yard because another employee, Ellis, elected to forego forklift duties in order to receive higher per diem pay on a ‽mobile crew.” Forklift operation was White†s primary, but not sole, duty. Less than three months after she began work, White complained that her foreman, Bill Joiner, ‽had repeatedly told her that women should not be working in the Maintenance of Way department” and had ‽made insulting and inappropriate remarks to her in front of her male colleagues” on two occasions. (Joiner admitted this was so; he had never supervised a woman and believed women should not work on a railroad.); Joiner was suspended for ten days and ordered to attend a sexual-harassment training session. When this outcome of her complaint was communicated to White, she was also informed that she was being removed from forklift duty because of co-worker complaints that ‽a more senior man should have the less arduous and cleaner job of forklift operator.”; Ellis, who had been one of the complainants, resumed the forklift duties because he was the only other employee qualified to do so. Two weeks later, White filed her first EEOC charge, claiming that the reassignment of her duties was both sex discrimination and retaliation for her complaint about her supervisor. Two months thereafter, she filed a second retaliation charge with EEOC, asserting; she had been placed under ‽surveillance” with her daily activities being monitored. Three days after the EEOC mailed the charge to BNSF, White and her new foreman, Percy Sharkey, disagreed about whether White could ride with him on a trip to a work site in Arkansas; White insisted she was entitled to ride with Sharkey due to her seniority. Sharkey reported the incident to higher management, and White was immediately suspended without pay due to ‽insubordination.” White filed a grievance through her collective bargaining representative, resulting in her reinstatement and back pay for the 37 days she had been suspended. Notwithstanding this ‽make-whole” remedy, White filed a third retaliation charge with the EEOC. All of these events, from White†s first complaint to her third charge, occurred in less than four months. A federal court jury in Tennessee awarded White $43,500.00 in compensatory damages, including $3,250 in medical expenses, for the retaliatory conduct of changing her job responsibilities and suspending her for 37 days without pay. A three-judge panel of the Sixth Circuit, in a 2-1 decision, reversed the result below and found in favor of BNSF, following which the full 13-judge court upheld the verdict below but strongly disagreed as to the appropriate standard to apply. The majority of the 13 judges, using the same test for retaliation as that which applies to a disparate treatment discrimination case, held that a plaintiff in a retaliation case must show an ‽adverse employment action,” defined as a ‽materially adverse change in the terms and conditions” of employment. BNSF sought Supreme Court review, pointing to conflicts between federal appellate courts concerning two issues:; (1); must action claimed to be retaliatory be ‽employment or workplace related,” and (2); how harmful must this action be to constitute retaliation? The Court reached three sweeping conclusions: Retaliation Claims Are Broader than Discrimination Claims. The provisions of Title VII which forbid retaliation aren†t limited to employmentâ€"related conduct.; Anything which might dissuade employees from complaining about discrimination is against the law; the two examples the Court gave are the FBI†s refusal to investigate death threats by a person toward an FBI agent and his wife, and filing false criminal charges against an employee. Cases dealing with employment discrimination in general are therefore not controlling. Anything which might chill employee complaints to EEOC is enough to trigger statutory protection. ‽Harm” Doesn†t Always Involve Money. Although attempting to stress that ‽material” adversity is necessary as a basis for a retaliation claim, because courts must ‽filter out complaints attacking â€~the ordinary tribulations of the workplace,†” and warning that a discrimination charge creates no immunity from ‽those petty slights and minor annoyances that often take place at work”, the Court makes it clear that the circumstances will determine whether retaliation exists; ‽context matters.” Schedule changes are important to mothers of young children; excluding an employee from ‽a weekly training lunch” could deter that person from complaining about discrimination. But context focuses on the impact the retaliatory act would have on a reasonable person who is similarly situated to the plaintiff â€" which may mean that in the scheduling example the zone of comparison is limited to reasonable mothers of small children. One Plus One Makes $43,500 â€" Plus Attorneys†Fees and Costs. Given the first two conclusions, the train followed those tracks to its inevitable destination:; The reassignment of duties within a single job classification was ‽materially adverse,” and the fully-remedied suspension was nonetheless retaliatory because ‽White and her family had to live 37 days without income,” a time period including the Christmas holidays, and White ‽obtained treatment for her emotional distress.” Case closed. There are numerous lessons to be learned from the White decision; not all of them are obvious: Separate functional responsibilities. The pivotal figure in the White scenario was the department head in that facility, Roadmaster Marvin Brown. Brown, along with HR Manager Cathy McGee, interviewed White for her job. (The; Court simply stated that Brown hired White.); Brown assigned White to operate the; forklift. Brown received the complaint that White had been treated differently from male employees by Joiner, her foreman. (McGee investigated the complaint, but this isn†t mentioned by the Court.); Brown removed White from the forklift assignment and gave it back to Ellis. Brown received the complaints from White†s co-workers before White complained about Joiner but he did not remove White from the forklift until after her complaint. Brown was the target of White†s second charge, which contended he had placed her under surveillance and checked on her daily activities. The EEOC mailed a copy of the second charge to Brown three days before her suspension for insubordination. Brown made the determination that White had been insubordinate based on a statement from White†s new foreman, Sharkey. ; Brown was involved in every aspect of BNSF†s dealing with White for the entire period in question. This is a recipe for disaster. Allowing a manager who has been accused of discrimination to continue to deal with the accuser on a day-to-day basis cannot help but create tension and an environment in which further complaints will flourish. It is, therefore, critical that employers ensure that complaints are presented to an objective party. Don†t weigh the merits of the underlying complaint. The White decision stresses that the court will look at the employer†s reaction to a complaint in determining whether the employer was out of bounds, without worrying about whether the complaint had merit. Complaints to the EEOC are presumed to be made in good faith; whether or not the employer believes a charge to be frivolous, it should be extremely careful in taking any adverse action, no matter how slight, which could later be argued to be retaliatory. While you may be able, somewhere down the road, to contend successfully that your reaction was warranted or that the charge was objectively meritless, such an approach can be guaranteed to produce yet more charges. The filing of a grievance under a union contract takes on a separate form of protection, that provided by §8(a)(4) of the National Labor Relations Act. Again, even a foolhardy grievance should be treated as serious, with the saving grace that the union may well adopt a more reasonable attitude toward the grievance than you would expect from an EEOC investigator. Finally, true ‽internal” complaints presented through a ‽chain of command” or through a special complaint procedure should be dealt with in a manner which is objectively fair. Think of principle, not principal. It is readily apparent that the jury verdict in White†s favor, even when added to the 37 days of back pay her union got for her, would have cost BNSF far less than the attorney†s fees, expenses, time and trouble devoted to litigating this case through to the Supreme Court. BNSF probably believed this was a ‽no harm, no foul” case, and that the courts would conclude that White had not been injured. But the Supreme Court†s resolution of the issue means that non-monetary claims can be litigated, with the real exposure to the employer being the potential for paying the plaintiff†s attorney†s fees and costs in addition to paying to defend itself. Moreover, following the Civil Rights Act of 1991, all sorts of compensatory damages, expert witness fees and the like may be borne by a losing defendant. Add to that the prospect of potentially crippling litigation costs in cases where email and other electronic communications are at issue and you have a threatening landscape indeed. Look at the facts again:; The employee worries about getting her job back and ‽obtains treatment for emotional distress.” Apparently that†s all it takes â€" and anyone can claim worry and seek treatment. In practice, it may not be that easy, but plaintiffs†attorneys have already begun to contend that the bar is so low as to be nonexistent. CONCLUSION We predict that the implications of the White decision will not be resolved for years to come. Trial courts may be reluctant to dismiss cases on summary judgment no matter how little is at stake. Unique factual situations will be dealt with case-by-case until a set of standards eventually emerges. Until that time, dealing with ‽squeaky wheels” in the workplace will entail extremely careful maintenance; policies, internal complaint procedures, disciplinary actions, evaluations, and every aspect of the employment relationship will need to be scrutinized to minimize exposure to retaliation claims. Supervisory training will take an even more crucial role in risk avoidance. If you have further questions about this topic or related topics, please feel free to contact the Labor & Employment Practice Group at Womble Carlyle. Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC, today announced that Richard D. (Rick) Jordan has joined the firm\'s Intellectual Property Practice Group as a member in the Tysons Corner office. Jordan, a registered patent attorney with degrees in biology and chemical engineering, has worked as a chemical and environmental engineer and as a patent examiner. Jordan has an extensive background in patent prosecution and counseling. Jordan will work closely with the lawyers in Womble Carlyle†s new office in Wilmington, Del., which is exclusively devoted to intellectual property litigation. ‽Womble Carlyle has lawyers in the chemical engineering and biotech areas who are among the most impressive at any major firm,” said Jordan. ‽My role at the firm will be to help the firm build on its existing chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotech patent practice and thus to help effect one of the firm†s major strategic goals.” Jordan is a 1991 graduate of the George Mason University School of Law. He also holds a B.A. in chemical engineering from Louisiana State University (1982). and a B.A. in biology from the University of Texas (1977). Before getting his law degree, he worked as a chemical and environmental engineer for the Placid Refining Co. in Port Allen, La., and as a patent examiner and patent agent. Jordan joins Womble Carlyle from the Washington, D.C. office of Shook Hardy & Bacon, where he had been a partner since 2004. Before that, he practiced at Morrison & Foerster, where he was a partner, and at Crowell & Moring. He also worked in the 1990s for the Exxon Chemical Co. as an in-house technology and patent attorney. ‽We are very excited to welcome Rick to Womble Carlyle and the Tysons office,” said Dan Mackesey, managing member of the office. ‽We expect him to be a real leader in building our patent capabilities in this office and the firm generally.” Jordan is a member of the District of Columbia and Virginia bars. He began work at Womble Carlyle on May 22, 2006. He can be via email or via phone at (703) 394-2262. Womble Carlyle†s Tysons Corner office has embarked on an aggressive strategy aimed at becoming the premier corporate and transactional counsel for technology companies in Northern Virginia as well as the premier technology-related litigation firm in the region. Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC, today announced that Richard D. (Rick) Jordan has joined the firm\'s Intellectual Property Practice Group as a member in the Tysons Corner office. Jordan, a registered patent attorney with degrees in biology and chemical engineering, has worked as a chemical and environmental engineer and as a patent examiner. Jordan has an extensive background in patent prosecution and counseling. Jordan will work closely with the lawyers in Womble Carlyle†s new office in Wilmington, Del., which is exclusively devoted to intellectual property litigation. ‽Womble Carlyle has lawyers in the chemical engineering and biotech areas who are among the most impressive at any major firm,” said Jordan. ‽My role at the firm will be to help the firm build on its existing chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotech patent practice and thus to help effect one of the firm†s major strategic goals.” Jordan is a 1991 graduate of the George Mason University School of Law. He also holds a B.A. in chemical engineering from Louisiana State University (1982). and a B.A. in biology from the University of Texas (1977). Before getting his law degree, he worked as a chemical and environmental engineer for the Placid Refining Co. in Port Allen, La., and as a patent examiner and patent agent. Jordan joins Womble Carlyle from the Washington, D.C. office of Shook Hardy & Bacon, where he had been a partner since 2004. Before that, he practiced at Morrison & Foerster, where he was a partner, and at Crowell & Moring. He also worked in the 1990s for the Exxon Chemical Co. as an in-house technology and patent attorney. ‽We are very excited to welcome Rick to Womble Carlyle and the Tysons office,” said Dan Mackesey, managing member of the office. ‽We expect him to be a real leader in building our patent capabilities in this office and the firm generally.” Jordan is a member of the District of Columbia and Virginia bars. He began work at Womble Carlyle on May 22, 2006. He can be via email or via phone at (703) 394-2262. Womble Carlyle†s Tysons Corner office has embarked on an aggressive strategy aimed at becoming the premier corporate and transactional counsel for technology companies in Northern Virginia as well as the premier technology-related litigation firm in the region. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100084 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100084&page=15 Address : P.O. Box 30397, Phone : 704-366-1101, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1045 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1045&page=16 Address : 1065 East Morehead Street, Phone : 704-332-1181, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1199 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1199&page=17 Address : 214 North Tryon Street47th Floor ,, Phone : 704-331-7400, City : Charlotte Kennedy Covington, one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, is pleased to announce that nine new attorneys have joined the firm as associates. Charlotte Office Glenn E. (Bo) Ketner III has joined the Litigation/Employment Law Section. He received his J.D. from Duke University in 2006, his M.A. from the University of London in 2001, and his A.B. from Duke University in 1996. Molly L. McIntosh has joined the Litigation/Commercial Section. She received her J.D. from Duke University in 2007 and her A.B. from Dartmouth College in 2003. Anna B. Nisbet has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. She received her J.D. from the University of Virginia in 2007 and her B.A. from the University of North Carolina in 2004. Patrick J. Rogers has joined the Business Law/Corporate Section. He received his J.D. from Vanderbilt University in 2007 and his B.S.B.A from the University of North Carolina in 2004. R. Colby Slaughter has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. He received his J.D. from the University of Virginia in 2007 and his B.S. from Brigham Young University in 2002. Derek M. Wisniewski has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. He received his J.D. from Duke University in 2007 and his M.B.A and B.S. from the University of Dayton in 2002. Raleigh Office Suzanne B. Allaire has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. She received her J.D. from the University of Texas in 2007 and her B.A. from the University of Virginia in 2002. Camden C. Betz has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. He received his J.D. in 2007 and his B.A. in 1997 from the University of North Carolina. Carolyn M. Gillikin has joined the Business Law/Business and Technology Section. She received her J.D. from the University of North Carolina in 2007 and her B.S. from North Carolina State University in 2004. Kennedy Covington, one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, is pleased to announce that nine new attorneys have joined the firm as associates. Charlotte Office Glenn E. (Bo) Ketner III has joined the Litigation/Employment Law Section. He received his J.D. from Duke University in 2006, his M.A. from the University of London in 2001, and his A.B. from Duke University in 1996. Molly L. McIntosh has joined the Litigation/Commercial Section. She received her J.D. from Duke University in 2007 and her A.B. from Dartmouth College in 2003. Anna B. Nisbet has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. She received her J.D. from the University of Virginia in 2007 and her B.A. from the University of North Carolina in 2004. Patrick J. Rogers has joined the Business Law/Corporate Section. He received his J.D. from Vanderbilt University in 2007 and his B.S.B.A from the University of North Carolina in 2004. R. Colby Slaughter has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. He received his J.D. from the University of Virginia in 2007 and his B.S. from Brigham Young University in 2002. Derek M. Wisniewski has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. He received his J.D. from Duke University in 2007 and his M.B.A and B.S. from the University of Dayton in 2002. Raleigh Office Suzanne B. Allaire has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. She received her J.D. from the University of Texas in 2007 and her B.A. from the University of Virginia in 2002. Camden C. Betz has joined the Real Estate/Development Section. He received his J.D. in 2007 and his B.A. in 1997 from the University of North Carolina. Carolyn M. Gillikin has joined the Business Law/Business and Technology Section. She received her J.D. from the University of North Carolina in 2007 and her B.S. from North Carolina State University in 2004. Kennedy Covington, one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, is pleased to announce that Bill Brian has been named Chair of the firm's Land Use and Zoning practice. This section, which includes 23 attorneys, focuses on zoning, land use and municipal law, real estate litigation and commercial real estate law. Brian practices out of the firm's RTP office, which is located in Durham. In addition, Brian, who is widely known in his field, was recently named Chair of the North Carolina Bar Association's Zoning, Planning and Land Use Section. This newest section of the NCBA was formed in 2005, in response to the state's rapid real estate development and growing number of zoning and land use attorneys. "Bill's knowledge, depth of experience and incredible work ethic make him a valuable asset to the firm, its clients and the practice of law as a whole," says Kent Christison, partner-in-charge of Kennedy Covington's Triangle offices. "However, what is unique about Bill is his intrinsic commitment to his community. He is able to effect long-term, positive change on a very large scale. That's what makes him a successful leader." For the past 15 years, Brian has been active with the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, currently serving on its Executive Committee as Vice Chairman for Government Affairs. He also chairs the Durham City/County Zoning Board of Adjustment; is a member of the City of Durham Citizens Capital Improvement Panel; serves on the Board of Directors of the Triangle Land Conservancy; and is a member of several other Triangle organizations. "It's important for me to actively participate in moving my community forward," says Brian. "Watching Durham's continued economic evolution is exciting and motivating. I look forward to working on more beneficial projects with my clients and with the community overall." This year, Chambers USA named Brian one of "America's Leading Lawyers for Business" for Land Use and Zoning. He was one of only five North Carolina lawyers listed in this section. Brian has been a featured speaker for the North Carolina Bar Association; the Wake Forest University School of Law Continuing Legal Education Program; the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association; and for the Campbell University School of Law Agribusiness Conference. He also has written recent articles for Greater Wilmington Business and the Triangle Business Journal. Kennedy Covington, one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, is pleased to announce that Bill Brian has been named Chair of the firm's Land Use and Zoning practice. This section, which includes 23 attorneys, focuses on zoning, land use and municipal law, real estate litigation and commercial real estate law. Brian practices out of the firm's RTP office, which is located in Durham. In addition, Brian, who is widely known in his field, was recently named Chair of the North Carolina Bar Association's Zoning, Planning and Land Use Section. This newest section of the NCBA was formed in 2005, in response to the state's rapid real estate development and growing number of zoning and land use attorneys. "Bill's knowledge, depth of experience and incredible work ethic make him a valuable asset to the firm, its clients and the practice of law as a whole," says Kent Christison, partner-in-charge of Kennedy Covington's Triangle offices. "However, what is unique about Bill is his intrinsic commitment to his community. He is able to effect long-term, positive change on a very large scale. That's what makes him a successful leader." For the past 15 years, Brian has been active with the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, currently serving on its Executive Committee as Vice Chairman for Government Affairs. He also chairs the Durham City/County Zoning Board of Adjustment; is a member of the City of Durham Citizens Capital Improvement Panel; serves on the Board of Directors of the Triangle Land Conservancy; and is a member of several other Triangle organizations. "It's important for me to actively participate in moving my community forward," says Brian. "Watching Durham's continued economic evolution is exciting and motivating. I look forward to working on more beneficial projects with my clients and with the community overall." This year, Chambers USA named Brian one of "America's Leading Lawyers for Business" for Land Use and Zoning. He was one of only five North Carolina lawyers listed in this section. Brian has been a featured speaker for the North Carolina Bar Association; the Wake Forest University School of Law Continuing Legal Education Program; the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association; and for the Campbell University School of Law Agribusiness Conference. He also has written recent articles for Greater Wilmington Business and the Triangle Business Journal. Kennedy Covington, one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, is pleased to announce that 62 of its attorneys have been named among the Best Lawyers in America, published by Woodard/White, Inc. Outstanding honors for the firm include number one rankings in North Carolina for Real Estate Law; Land Use & Zoning; and Corporate Governance and Compliance. Statewide, Kennedy Covington has the greatest number of listed attorneys in these three practice areas. The firm's Charlotte office also received a number one ranking for having the most listed lawyers in the city. Recently named the number one fastest growing law firm in the Triangle by the Triangle Business Journal, 14 of the firm's Best Lawyers are located in the Raleigh and RTP offices. Recognized attorneys for the 2008 list include: Charlotte John D. Allison (Corporate Law, International Trade and Finance Law, Project Finance Law), David Line Batty (Banking Law), J. Michael Booe (Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law), John H. Carmichael (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), G. Lee Cory Jr. (Real Estate Law), John H. Culver III (Commercial Litigation), James E. Earle (Employee Benefits Law), Brian P. Evans (Real Estate Law), B. D. Farmer III (Real Estate Law), Walter D. Fisher Jr. (Real Estate Law), David A. Franchina (Environmental Law), T. Richard Giovannelli (Venture Capital Law), Glen B. Hardymon (Real Estate Law), Michael S. Hawley (Corporate Law), Wayne P. Huckel (Alternative Dispute Resolution, Commercial Litigation, Construction Law), David H. Jones (Real Estate Law), Sean M. Jones (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Securities Law), Warren P. Kean (Tax Law), Joseph B. C. Kluttz (Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law), J. Donnell Lassiter (Banking Law), William C. Livingston (Labor and Employment Law), Felicia Washington Mauney (Immigration Law, Labor and Employment Law), Kiran H. Mehta (Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Construction Law), Roy H. Michaux Jr. (Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, Real Estate Law), Lee West Movius (Employee Benefits Law), John M. Murchison Jr. (Antitrust Law), Raymond E. Owens Jr. (Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation), Bailey Patrick Jr. (Government Relations Law, Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), Francis M. Pinckney (Intellectual Property Law), E. Allen Prichard (Real Estate Law), Eugene C. Pridgen (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law), J. Norfleet Pruden III (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Securities Law), Stephen K. Rhyne (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law), Karl S. Sawyer Jr. (Intellectual Property Law), Dalbert U. Shefte (Intellectual Property Law), Raleigh A. Shoemaker (Employee Benefits Law), A. Zachary Smith III (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law), Paul A. Steffens (Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Venture Capital Law), Kevin P. Stichter (Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law, Venture Capital Law), Maynard E. Tipps (Real Estate Law), Michael A. Tobin (Intellectual Property Law), Charles V. Tompkins Jr. (Alternative Dispute Resolution), Carolyn A. Jones Van Buren (Environmental Law), Clarence W. Walker (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law, Energy Law, Securities Law), Dean A. Warren (Banking Law), J. Michael Wilson (Tax Law). Columbia James H. Hodges (Government Relations Law). Raleigh Stanford D. Baird (Environmental Law), Eric M. Braun (Land Use & Zoning Law), Kent F. Christison (Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law), A. Lee Hogewood III (Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law), Mack A. Paul IV (Land Use & Zoning Law), Alan H. Peterson (Real Estate Law), Lacy H. Reaves (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), John L. Sarratt (Commercial Litigation), William G. Scoggin (Government Relations Law), Robert B. Womble (Corporate Law, Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law). Research Triangle Park Mary Beth Johnston (Health Care Law), John E. Markham Jr. (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), Patricia T. Meador (Health Care Law), Gary S. Qualls (Health Care Law). Rock Hill Stephen R. McCrae Jr. (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law). About Best Lawyers Best Lawyers compiles lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. In the U.S., Best Lawyers publishes an annual referral guide, The Best Lawyers in America, which includes 29,575 attorneys in 78 specialties, covering all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Kennedy Covington, one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, is pleased to announce that 62 of its attorneys have been named among the Best Lawyers in America, published by Woodard/White, Inc. Outstanding honors for the firm include number one rankings in North Carolina for Real Estate Law; Land Use & Zoning; and Corporate Governance and Compliance. Statewide, Kennedy Covington has the greatest number of listed attorneys in these three practice areas. The firm's Charlotte office also received a number one ranking for having the most listed lawyers in the city. Recently named the number one fastest growing law firm in the Triangle by the Triangle Business Journal, 14 of the firm's Best Lawyers are located in the Raleigh and RTP offices. Recognized attorneys for the 2008 list include: Charlotte John D. Allison (Corporate Law, International Trade and Finance Law, Project Finance Law), David Line Batty (Banking Law), J. Michael Booe (Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law), John H. Carmichael (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), G. Lee Cory Jr. (Real Estate Law), John H. Culver III (Commercial Litigation), James E. Earle (Employee Benefits Law), Brian P. Evans (Real Estate Law), B. D. Farmer III (Real Estate Law), Walter D. Fisher Jr. (Real Estate Law), David A. Franchina (Environmental Law), T. Richard Giovannelli (Venture Capital Law), Glen B. Hardymon (Real Estate Law), Michael S. Hawley (Corporate Law), Wayne P. Huckel (Alternative Dispute Resolution, Commercial Litigation, Construction Law), David H. Jones (Real Estate Law), Sean M. Jones (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Securities Law), Warren P. Kean (Tax Law), Joseph B. C. Kluttz (Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law), J. Donnell Lassiter (Banking Law), William C. Livingston (Labor and Employment Law), Felicia Washington Mauney (Immigration Law, Labor and Employment Law), Kiran H. Mehta (Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Construction Law), Roy H. Michaux Jr. (Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, Real Estate Law), Lee West Movius (Employee Benefits Law), John M. Murchison Jr. (Antitrust Law), Raymond E. Owens Jr. (Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation), Bailey Patrick Jr. (Government Relations Law, Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), Francis M. Pinckney (Intellectual Property Law), E. Allen Prichard (Real Estate Law), Eugene C. Pridgen (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law), J. Norfleet Pruden III (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Securities Law), Stephen K. Rhyne (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law), Karl S. Sawyer Jr. (Intellectual Property Law), Dalbert U. Shefte (Intellectual Property Law), Raleigh A. Shoemaker (Employee Benefits Law), A. Zachary Smith III (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law), Paul A. Steffens (Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Venture Capital Law), Kevin P. Stichter (Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law, Venture Capital Law), Maynard E. Tipps (Real Estate Law), Michael A. Tobin (Intellectual Property Law), Charles V. Tompkins Jr. (Alternative Dispute Resolution), Carolyn A. Jones Van Buren (Environmental Law), Clarence W. Walker (Corporate Governance and Compliance Law, Corporate Law, Energy Law, Securities Law), Dean A. Warren (Banking Law), J. Michael Wilson (Tax Law). Columbia James H. Hodges (Government Relations Law). Raleigh Stanford D. Baird (Environmental Law), Eric M. Braun (Land Use & Zoning Law), Kent F. Christison (Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions Law), A. Lee Hogewood III (Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law), Mack A. Paul IV (Land Use & Zoning Law), Alan H. Peterson (Real Estate Law), Lacy H. Reaves (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), John L. Sarratt (Commercial Litigation), William G. Scoggin (Government Relations Law), Robert B. Womble (Corporate Law, Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law). Research Triangle Park Mary Beth Johnston (Health Care Law), John E. Markham Jr. (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law), Patricia T. Meador (Health Care Law), Gary S. Qualls (Health Care Law). Rock Hill Stephen R. McCrae Jr. (Land Use & Zoning Law, Real Estate Law). About Best Lawyers Best Lawyers compiles lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. In the U.S., Best Lawyers publishes an annual referral guide, The Best Lawyers in America, which includes 29,575 attorneys in 78 specialties, covering all 50 states and the District of Columbia. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1262 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1262&page=18 Address : 100 North Tryon StreetSuite 4700 ,, Phone : 704-331-1000, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1688 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1688&page=19 Address : 701 Green Valley RoadSuite 100 ,, Phone : 336-373-1600, City : Greensboro Charleston, SC - Dwayne A. Watts, whose career includes diverse experience in both law and business, has joined Nexsen Pruet\'s Charleston office as Special Counsel and will work in the firm\'s corporate practice group. Prior to joining Nexsen Pruet he practiced in Los Angeles. He has also held corporate positions with internationally known companies such as Vivendi and PricewaterhouseCoopers. \"\"Dwayne brings a good mix of legal and business experience to our firm,\"\" said Leighton Lord, board chairman of Nexsen Pruet. \"\"He has a tremendous business background in corporate strategy, business development, and mergers and acquisitions, which is matched by solid legal experience. This combination makes him a great fit for the companies we represent.\"\" He has most recently advised clients on corporate issues, and musicians and artists on business and entertainment matters. Watts served as senior director of business and strategic development for Universal Music Group, part of Vivendi Universal. In that capacity, he was involved in merger and acquisition transactions and advised executives on business-related matters. He also conducted broad-based analyses of strategic initiatives and managed various corporate strategic processes from beginning to end. At PricewaterhouseCoopers, he was senior manager in Mergers & Acquisitions Consulting, advising corporate officers in industries that included healthcare, manufacturing and distribution, technology, Internet, computer software and hardware, entertainment, and lodging. Watts earned his undergraduate degree in business administration from West Virginia University and his law degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. He also has an MBA from the Kelley Graduate School of Business at Indiana University. Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. Charleston, SC - Dwayne A. Watts, whose career includes diverse experience in both law and business, has joined Nexsen Pruet\'s Charleston office as Special Counsel and will work in the firm\'s corporate practice group. Prior to joining Nexsen Pruet he practiced in Los Angeles. He has also held corporate positions with internationally known companies such as Vivendi and PricewaterhouseCoopers. \"\"Dwayne brings a good mix of legal and business experience to our firm,\"\" said Leighton Lord, board chairman of Nexsen Pruet. \"\"He has a tremendous business background in corporate strategy, business development, and mergers and acquisitions, which is matched by solid legal experience. This combination makes him a great fit for the companies we represent.\"\" He has most recently advised clients on corporate issues, and musicians and artists on business and entertainment matters. Watts served as senior director of business and strategic development for Universal Music Group, part of Vivendi Universal. In that capacity, he was involved in merger and acquisition transactions and advised executives on business-related matters. He also conducted broad-based analyses of strategic initiatives and managed various corporate strategic processes from beginning to end. At PricewaterhouseCoopers, he was senior manager in Mergers & Acquisitions Consulting, advising corporate officers in industries that included healthcare, manufacturing and distribution, technology, Internet, computer software and hardware, entertainment, and lodging. Watts earned his undergraduate degree in business administration from West Virginia University and his law degree from the West Virginia University College of Law. He also has an MBA from the Kelley Graduate School of Business at Indiana University. Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. COLUMBIA, SC - Roshella James has joined Nexsen Pruet, LLC as an associate in the firm's Employment and Labor Law Practice Group. She will practice in the firm's Columbia, SC office. James' experience includes representing corporate clients in employment litigation matters, mediations, and administrative proceedings, as well as commercial and business litigation. She has also worked in the corporate setting as a consumer and commercial banking loan officer with First Citizens Bank in Columbia. "Roshella has experience in multiple business-specific areas," said Leighton Lord, chairman of the board of Nexsen Pruet. "She will bring immediate value and skill to our employment group on a wide range of matters." James earned her undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina and her law degree from the USC School of Law. She also has an LL.M. in labor and employment law from the Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. James was previously an associate with Gallivan, White & Boyd in Greenville. Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. COLUMBIA, SC - Roshella James has joined Nexsen Pruet, LLC as an associate in the firm's Employment and Labor Law Practice Group. She will practice in the firm's Columbia, SC office. James' experience includes representing corporate clients in employment litigation matters, mediations, and administrative proceedings, as well as commercial and business litigation. She has also worked in the corporate setting as a consumer and commercial banking loan officer with First Citizens Bank in Columbia. "Roshella has experience in multiple business-specific areas," said Leighton Lord, chairman of the board of Nexsen Pruet. "She will bring immediate value and skill to our employment group on a wide range of matters." James earned her undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina and her law degree from the USC School of Law. She also has an LL.M. in labor and employment law from the Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. James was previously an associate with Gallivan, White & Boyd in Greenville. Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. HILTON HEAD, SC - Melissa L. Azallion, an employment and immigration attorney in Nexsen Pruet's Hilton Head office, has been appointed vice chair of the Lowcountry Workforce Investment Board. "Our firm has a tradition of supporting economic opportunity in South Carolina, and workforce development will play a major role in ensuring the state's future prosperity," said Leighton Lord, chairman of the board of Nexsen Pruet. "Melissa†s appointment underscores that tradition and reflects her commitment to community service." The Workforce Investment Board seeks to work with partners to establish a customer-driven workforce development system that maximizes return on investment and focuses on customer satisfaction. Board members are nominated by local chambers of commerce/development boards, partner agencies, community-based groups, and other organizations. Members are then appointed by the county councils in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper. In her legal practice Azallion represents individuals and corporate clients in multiple industries, including higher education, manufacturing, health care, government, and technology. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the Latin American Council of South Carolina, and the National Association of College and University Attorneys. Additionally, Azallion is a frequent speaker for business and community organizations on topics such as sexual harassment, immigration, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, Title VII, and wage and hour and workers' compensation issues. Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. HILTON HEAD, SC - Melissa L. Azallion, an employment and immigration attorney in Nexsen Pruet's Hilton Head office, has been appointed vice chair of the Lowcountry Workforce Investment Board. "Our firm has a tradition of supporting economic opportunity in South Carolina, and workforce development will play a major role in ensuring the state's future prosperity," said Leighton Lord, chairman of the board of Nexsen Pruet. "Melissa†s appointment underscores that tradition and reflects her commitment to community service." The Workforce Investment Board seeks to work with partners to establish a customer-driven workforce development system that maximizes return on investment and focuses on customer satisfaction. Board members are nominated by local chambers of commerce/development boards, partner agencies, community-based groups, and other organizations. Members are then appointed by the county councils in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper. In her legal practice Azallion represents individuals and corporate clients in multiple industries, including higher education, manufacturing, health care, government, and technology. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the Latin American Council of South Carolina, and the National Association of College and University Attorneys. Additionally, Azallion is a frequent speaker for business and community organizations on topics such as sexual harassment, immigration, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, Title VII, and wage and hour and workers' compensation issues. Nexsen Pruet, LLC is one of the largest law firms in the Carolinas, with more than 170 attorneys and offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C. Founded in 1945, Nexsen Pruet provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies and other entities in local, state, national, and international venues. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1757 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1757&page=41 Address : 101 North Tryon StreetSuite 1900 ,, Phone : 704-377-2536, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2025 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2025&page=21 Address : 756 Tyvola RoadSuite 130 ,, Phone : 704-940-9128, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=449 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=449&page=22 Address : 201 South College StreetSuite 1400 ,, Phone : 704-334-4565, City : Charlotte Fisher & Phillips LLP announces that five of Florida's most respected labor and employment attorneys have joined the Firm's Orlando office effective September 1, 2007. The attorneys who have been practicing at Akerman Senterfitt's Orlando office, represent 115 years of experience in labor and employment law. The five are: Partners Jeffrey E. Mandel, David V. Kornreich, and Benton N. Wood; Of Counsel Vasilis ("Bill") Katsafanas; and Associate David A. Young. Mr. Mandel will be the managing partner of the Orlando office. Fisher & Phillips Chairman Roger Quillen said, "Our Orlando office overnight becomes one of the best labor and employment legal practices in the state of Florida with the addition of these attorneys. This group includes one of the â€~deans' of labor lawyers in the state of Florida, David Kornreich. Each of these lawyers has demonstrated the knowledge and commitment that our firm provides to our clients." Mr. Mandel said, "Fisher & Phillips has the national reach and the extensive experience that will enhance our practices and benefit the clients with whom we currently work. We are able to tap into one of the richest sources of labor and employment knowledge in the country. Each of us wanted to join what we view as the premier boutique in the U.S." Fisher & Phillips LLP announces that five of Florida's most respected labor and employment attorneys have joined the Firm's Orlando office effective September 1, 2007. The attorneys who have been practicing at Akerman Senterfitt's Orlando office, represent 115 years of experience in labor and employment law. The five are: Partners Jeffrey E. Mandel, David V. Kornreich, and Benton N. Wood; Of Counsel Vasilis ("Bill") Katsafanas; and Associate David A. Young. Mr. Mandel will be the managing partner of the Orlando office. Fisher & Phillips Chairman Roger Quillen said, "Our Orlando office overnight becomes one of the best labor and employment legal practices in the state of Florida with the addition of these attorneys. This group includes one of the â€~deans' of labor lawyers in the state of Florida, David Kornreich. Each of these lawyers has demonstrated the knowledge and commitment that our firm provides to our clients." Mr. Mandel said, "Fisher & Phillips has the national reach and the extensive experience that will enhance our practices and benefit the clients with whom we currently work. We are able to tap into one of the richest sources of labor and employment knowledge in the country. Each of us wanted to join what we view as the premier boutique in the U.S." Fisher & Phillips LLP has become a partner with Strategic HR Partners (SHRP). SHRP is a non-profit employer†s association located in the Incubator Program in the Cunningham Center in Columbus, Georgia. The new organization is offering diversified HR services to mid- and small-sized companies. Fisher & Phillips is the partner offering services in employment and labor law. SHRP is holding a kickoff event on Thursday, August 30 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Cunningham Center at Columbus State University. Member companies will be able to tap into resources that can review their company handbooks for legal compliance, assess their corporate culture and develop a plan for change, assist with writing job descriptions, performance evaluations, and affirmative action plans, develop compensation programs, conduct employee and customer opinion surveys, and much more. In addition, there†s an HR Hotline that members can call to discuss HR issues, a CEO Roundtable, and a HR Roundtable where member companies can discuss best practices. In addition to Fisher & Phillips, several other companies will be offering a variety of services to employers. Membership cost to join the association varies, depending on the number of employees. Companies of any size may join. "We are excited about filling a niche that has been lacking in our area," said Charles Little, President and CEO of SHRP. "For instance, there are a lot of mid- and small-sized companies that do not have human resource departments to keep them in compliance with state and federal laws. Our goal is to assist them. Those companies with Human Resource professionals can utilize our services in HR consultation, project management, outplacement, training and development, and professional certification." Fisher & Phillips LLP has become a partner with Strategic HR Partners (SHRP). SHRP is a non-profit employer†s association located in the Incubator Program in the Cunningham Center in Columbus, Georgia. The new organization is offering diversified HR services to mid- and small-sized companies. Fisher & Phillips is the partner offering services in employment and labor law. SHRP is holding a kickoff event on Thursday, August 30 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Cunningham Center at Columbus State University. Member companies will be able to tap into resources that can review their company handbooks for legal compliance, assess their corporate culture and develop a plan for change, assist with writing job descriptions, performance evaluations, and affirmative action plans, develop compensation programs, conduct employee and customer opinion surveys, and much more. In addition, there†s an HR Hotline that members can call to discuss HR issues, a CEO Roundtable, and a HR Roundtable where member companies can discuss best practices. In addition to Fisher & Phillips, several other companies will be offering a variety of services to employers. Membership cost to join the association varies, depending on the number of employees. Companies of any size may join. "We are excited about filling a niche that has been lacking in our area," said Charles Little, President and CEO of SHRP. "For instance, there are a lot of mid- and small-sized companies that do not have human resource departments to keep them in compliance with state and federal laws. Our goal is to assist them. Those companies with Human Resource professionals can utilize our services in HR consultation, project management, outplacement, training and development, and professional certification." Fisher & Phillips exhibited at this year†s national SHRM Conference and sponsored a reception June 25 at Caesars Palace for attendees. About 350 people attended the reception. Staff members Jackie Greenbaum and Ilene Hasforth helped to arrange the event. A strong contingent of attorneys was present: Mark Ricciardi, Shaun Haley, Scott Mahoney, Jeffrey Winchester, Christian Zinn from Las Vegas; Jim McDonald, John Polson, Mark Jacobs, Danielle Moore and Jeff Thurrell from Irvine; and Cheryl Behymer from Columbia. Fisher & Phillips exhibited at this year†s national SHRM Conference and sponsored a reception June 25 at Caesars Palace for attendees. About 350 people attended the reception. Staff members Jackie Greenbaum and Ilene Hasforth helped to arrange the event. A strong contingent of attorneys was present: Mark Ricciardi, Shaun Haley, Scott Mahoney, Jeffrey Winchester, Christian Zinn from Las Vegas; Jim McDonald, John Polson, Mark Jacobs, Danielle Moore and Jeff Thurrell from Irvine; and Cheryl Behymer from Columbia. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=752 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=752&page=23 Address : Suite 2500214 North Tryon Street ,, Phone : 704-338-5000, City : Charlotte ATLANTA (January 27) â€" The Blue Ribbon Commission of the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) has published its Report on ‽Director Liability: Myths, Realities, and Prevention.” Kilpatrick Stockton Partner Neil Falis was a member of the prestigious 23-person Commission, and an active participant in preparing the Report. ‽The Commission†s members included directors, general counsel and executive officers of some of the largest companies in the country, many of whom are leaders in the corporate governance arena,” said Mr. Falis. ‽As a result, the Report reflects the perspectives of people who grapple with director liability issues on a daily basis.” The Commission†s report separates myths from realities concerning directors†liability exposure, and recommends a series of best practices for directors to limit that exposure. The NACD established the Commission to assess current trends in litigation against directors, and to consider more generally recent developments in stockholder litigation, its impact on the fiduciary duties of directors at both the federal and state levels, and to recommend practices that may allow directors to move beyond compliance to focus on creating value for stockholders. Mr. Falis added, ‽The Commission†s Report is unparalleled in its clear assessment of where and how real risks have increased for directors, and debunks myths that have resulted from misinterpretations of recent events in the media and elsewhere. It is highly readable for the busy director or executive, as well as informative for an experienced corporate lawyer.” The Commission was chaired by Norman Veasey, former chief justice of the Delaware Supreme Court and, along with Mr. Falis of Kilpatrick Stockton, included legal and corporate leaders from companies across the country, including: American Express, Black & Decker, Conoco-Phillips, DuPont, ExxonMobil, General Electric, General Motors, Pfizer, Inc., Proctor & Gamble, TIAA/CREF, Tyco International, Wells Fargo and others. About the National Association of Corporate Directors The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) is an independent not-for profit membership organization devoted exclusively to improving corporate board performance. Founded in 1977, NACD conducts educational programs and standard-setting research, and provides information and guidance on a variety of board governance issues and practices. Membership is comprised of individual directors and entire corporate boards from U.S. and overseas companies ranging from large publicly held corporations to small over-the-counter, private, and closely held firms. Institutions such as the U.S. Congress, SEC, NYSE and NASDAQ recently have called upon NACD to provide input and recommendations on standards of good corporate governance. www.nacdonline.org. About Kilpatrick Stockton Kilpatrick Stockton LLP is a full-service international law firm with more than 470 attorneys in nine offices across the globe: Atlanta and Augusta, GA.; New York, New York; Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem, N.C.; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Stockholm, Sweden. Kilpatrick Stockton's delivery of innovative business solutions provides results-oriented counsel for companies, from the execution of myriad financing arrangements and complex business transactions to the protection and management of intellectual property. Kilpatrick Stockton's corporate, litigation, intellectual property and specialty-practice attorneys collaborate seamlessly to provide proactive and efficient counsel and guidance to companies at every stage of the business life cycle. For more, go to www.kilpatrickstockton.com. ATLANTA (January 27) â€" The Blue Ribbon Commission of the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) has published its Report on ‽Director Liability: Myths, Realities, and Prevention.” Kilpatrick Stockton Partner Neil Falis was a member of the prestigious 23-person Commission, and an active participant in preparing the Report. ‽The Commission†s members included directors, general counsel and executive officers of some of the largest companies in the country, many of whom are leaders in the corporate governance arena,” said Mr. Falis. ‽As a result, the Report reflects the perspectives of people who grapple with director liability issues on a daily basis.” The Commission†s report separates myths from realities concerning directors†liability exposure, and recommends a series of best practices for directors to limit that exposure. The NACD established the Commission to assess current trends in litigation against directors, and to consider more generally recent developments in stockholder litigation, its impact on the fiduciary duties of directors at both the federal and state levels, and to recommend practices that may allow directors to move beyond compliance to focus on creating value for stockholders. Mr. Falis added, ‽The Commission†s Report is unparalleled in its clear assessment of where and how real risks have increased for directors, and debunks myths that have resulted from misinterpretations of recent events in the media and elsewhere. It is highly readable for the busy director or executive, as well as informative for an experienced corporate lawyer.” The Commission was chaired by Norman Veasey, former chief justice of the Delaware Supreme Court and, along with Mr. Falis of Kilpatrick Stockton, included legal and corporate leaders from companies across the country, including: American Express, Black & Decker, Conoco-Phillips, DuPont, ExxonMobil, General Electric, General Motors, Pfizer, Inc., Proctor & Gamble, TIAA/CREF, Tyco International, Wells Fargo and others. About the National Association of Corporate Directors The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) is an independent not-for profit membership organization devoted exclusively to improving corporate board performance. Founded in 1977, NACD conducts educational programs and standard-setting research, and provides information and guidance on a variety of board governance issues and practices. Membership is comprised of individual directors and entire corporate boards from U.S. and overseas companies ranging from large publicly held corporations to small over-the-counter, private, and closely held firms. Institutions such as the U.S. Congress, SEC, NYSE and NASDAQ recently have called upon NACD to provide input and recommendations on standards of good corporate governance. www.nacdonline.org. About Kilpatrick Stockton Kilpatrick Stockton LLP is a full-service international law firm with more than 470 attorneys in nine offices across the globe: Atlanta and Augusta, GA.; New York, New York; Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem, N.C.; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Stockholm, Sweden. Kilpatrick Stockton's delivery of innovative business solutions provides results-oriented counsel for companies, from the execution of myriad financing arrangements and complex business transactions to the protection and management of intellectual property. Kilpatrick Stockton's corporate, litigation, intellectual property and specialty-practice attorneys collaborate seamlessly to provide proactive and efficient counsel and guidance to companies at every stage of the business life cycle. For more, go to www.kilpatrickstockton.com. ATLANTA (January 24) â€" Kilpatrick Stockton LLP announced today that the firm earned top recognition in the annual Chambers and Partners Global Guide. The International Arbitration practice group in London placed in the Chambers†rankings for its ‽breadth” and ‽significant following among peers and clients.” Chambers also stated that ‽the group advises on an impressive range of work from East-West arbitrations to commodities proceedings.” Mary O†Connor, a partner in the firm†s litigation group in London, was noted for her work in international arbitration. ”We are proud of the work our attorneys are doing to distinguish Kilpatrick Stockton as a top firm, nationally and internationally,” said Bill Brewster, Managing Partner of Kilpatrick Stockton. ‽It†s gratifying to know that we are highly regarded by our clients and we will continue to grow in key practice areas and locations important to them.” Chambers and Partners also awarded partner Helen Newman in Intellectual Property its #1 ranking. Described as "brilliant and effective," she was hailed for her "incredibly deep knowledge of trade marks." Ms. Newman was described as a leader in ‽ the protection, enforcement and management of domestic and international brands.” Ms. Newman†s client base includes companies from the pharmaceutical, fashion and banking sectors. About Chambers and Partners Chambers and Partners Publishing, based in London, produces the annual Chambers Global Guide. For the current global directory, more than 6,500 interviews were conducted covering 170 countries and were carried out by a team of 30 full-time researchers over a period of 12 months. About Kilpatrick Stockton Kilpatrick Stockton LLP is a full-service international law firm with more than 470 attorneys in nine offices across the globe: Atlanta and Augusta, GA.; Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem, NC.; New York, NY; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Stockholm, Sweden. Kilpatrick Stockton's delivery of innovative business solutions provides results-oriented counsel for corporations, from the challenging demands of financial transactions and securities to the disciplines of intellectual property management. Collaboration among Kilpatrick Stockton's corporate, litigation and intellectual property attorneys provides knowledgeable and proactive guidance for companies at every stage of the business life cycle. ATLANTA (January 24) â€" Kilpatrick Stockton LLP announced today that the firm earned top recognition in the annual Chambers and Partners Global Guide. The International Arbitration practice group in London placed in the Chambers†rankings for its ‽breadth” and ‽significant following among peers and clients.” Chambers also stated that ‽the group advises on an impressive range of work from East-West arbitrations to commodities proceedings.” Mary O†Connor, a partner in the firm†s litigation group in London, was noted for her work in international arbitration. ”We are proud of the work our attorneys are doing to distinguish Kilpatrick Stockton as a top firm, nationally and internationally,” said Bill Brewster, Managing Partner of Kilpatrick Stockton. ‽It†s gratifying to know that we are highly regarded by our clients and we will continue to grow in key practice areas and locations important to them.” Chambers and Partners also awarded partner Helen Newman in Intellectual Property its #1 ranking. Described as "brilliant and effective," she was hailed for her "incredibly deep knowledge of trade marks." Ms. Newman was described as a leader in ‽ the protection, enforcement and management of domestic and international brands.” Ms. Newman†s client base includes companies from the pharmaceutical, fashion and banking sectors. About Chambers and Partners Chambers and Partners Publishing, based in London, produces the annual Chambers Global Guide. For the current global directory, more than 6,500 interviews were conducted covering 170 countries and were carried out by a team of 30 full-time researchers over a period of 12 months. About Kilpatrick Stockton Kilpatrick Stockton LLP is a full-service international law firm with more than 470 attorneys in nine offices across the globe: Atlanta and Augusta, GA.; Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem, NC.; New York, NY; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Stockholm, Sweden. Kilpatrick Stockton's delivery of innovative business solutions provides results-oriented counsel for corporations, from the challenging demands of financial transactions and securities to the disciplines of intellectual property management. Collaboration among Kilpatrick Stockton's corporate, litigation and intellectual property attorneys provides knowledgeable and proactive guidance for companies at every stage of the business life cycle. Winston-Salem (January 24) â€" Kilpatrick Stockton LLP announces the addition of Frank W. Leak Jr. to the firm†s Winston-Salem office. Mr. Leak joins as an associate in the firm†s Litigation Practice Group. Prior to joint Kilpatrick Stockton, Mr. Leak was an associate with Alston & Bird, LLP in Charlotte, N.C. Mr. Leak†s practice will focus in the areas of patent litigation and complex business litigation. Mr. Leak is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office and he has significant experience representing large and mid-sized institutional clients as both plaintiff and defendant in patent litigation and trademark litigation. Mr. Leak earned his B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, his M.S. from North Carolina State University and his J.D. from University of North Carolina School of Law. He has also published the following articles, ‽Challenges of Business Method Patent Enforcement â€" Extraterritoriality,” The Computer & Internet Lawyer, 2002 and ‽A Setback to Reach-Through Claiming,” Patent, Trademark & Copyright Journal, 2003. About Kilpatrick Stockton Kilpatrick Stockton LLP is a full-service international law firm with more than 470 attorneys in nine offices across the globe: Atlanta and Augusta, GA.; New York, New York; Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem, N.C.; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Stockholm, Sweden. Kilpatrick Stockton's delivery of innovative business solutions provides results-oriented counsel for corporations, from the challenging demands of financial transactions and securities to the disciplines of intellectual property management. Collaboration among Kilpatrick Stockton's corporate, litigation and intellectual property attorneys provides knowledgeable and proactive guidance for companies at every stage of the business life cycle. For more, go to www.kilpatrickstockton.com. Winston-Salem (January 24) â€" Kilpatrick Stockton LLP announces the addition of Frank W. Leak Jr. to the firm†s Winston-Salem office. Mr. Leak joins as an associate in the firm†s Litigation Practice Group. Prior to joint Kilpatrick Stockton, Mr. Leak was an associate with Alston & Bird, LLP in Charlotte, N.C. Mr. Leak†s practice will focus in the areas of patent litigation and complex business litigation. Mr. Leak is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office and he has significant experience representing large and mid-sized institutional clients as both plaintiff and defendant in patent litigation and trademark litigation. Mr. Leak earned his B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, his M.S. from North Carolina State University and his J.D. from University of North Carolina School of Law. He has also published the following articles, ‽Challenges of Business Method Patent Enforcement â€" Extraterritoriality,” The Computer & Internet Lawyer, 2002 and ‽A Setback to Reach-Through Claiming,” Patent, Trademark & Copyright Journal, 2003. About Kilpatrick Stockton Kilpatrick Stockton LLP is a full-service international law firm with more than 470 attorneys in nine offices across the globe: Atlanta and Augusta, GA.; New York, New York; Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem, N.C.; Washington, D.C.; London, England; and Stockholm, Sweden. Kilpatrick Stockton's delivery of innovative business solutions provides results-oriented counsel for corporations, from the challenging demands of financial transactions and securities to the disciplines of intellectual property management. Collaboration among Kilpatrick Stockton's corporate, litigation and intellectual property attorneys provides knowledgeable and proactive guidance for companies at every stage of the business life cycle. For more, go to www.kilpatrickstockton.com. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1275 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1275&page=24 Address : 13925 Ballantyne Corporate PlaceSuite 200 ,, Phone : 704-544-2500, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100118 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100118&page=25 Address : 214 North Tryon StreetSuite 3800 ,, Phone : 704-444-3500, City : Charlotte Mayer Brown LLP has been recognized as one of the 2007 Top Ten Family-Friendly Firms by Yale Law Women (YLW), the largest student organization at Yale Law School, which co-sponsored the survey with Women's Law School Coalition groups at Boalt(Berkeley), Chicago, Columbia, Harvard, Northwestern, Stanford and Virginia. YLW seeks to emphasize the need for firm employment policies that facilitate work-life balance for attorneys and work environments that accommodate, as well as support, lawyers with families. "The list is a way to celebrate those firms that have taken important steps toward helping attorneys have both a family and a successful career," said YLW Activism Co-Chair Katie Wilson-Milne. The top ten were selected from 150 firms that completed workplace questionnaires for NALP, the Association for Legal Career Professionals and were ranked among "the most prestigious" or "best of the rest" law firms by The Vault. "This recognition is further evidence of our numerous efforts to build a workplace where Mayer Brown people will thrive as professionals," said James D. Holzhauer, Chairman of Mayer Brown. "We are especially proud to note that this honor follows Working Mother's recent recognition of Mayer Brown as one of the 2007 Best Law Firms for Women and the MCCA's Sager Award." The Minority Corporate Counsel Association (MCCA) Thomas L. Sager Award is presented to law firms that demonstrate a commitment to creating a more inclusive legal profession and working environment. Mayer Brown LLP has been recognized as one of the 2007 Top Ten Family-Friendly Firms by Yale Law Women (YLW), the largest student organization at Yale Law School, which co-sponsored the survey with Women's Law School Coalition groups at Boalt(Berkeley), Chicago, Columbia, Harvard, Northwestern, Stanford and Virginia. YLW seeks to emphasize the need for firm employment policies that facilitate work-life balance for attorneys and work environments that accommodate, as well as support, lawyers with families. "The list is a way to celebrate those firms that have taken important steps toward helping attorneys have both a family and a successful career," said YLW Activism Co-Chair Katie Wilson-Milne. The top ten were selected from 150 firms that completed workplace questionnaires for NALP, the Association for Legal Career Professionals and were ranked among "the most prestigious" or "best of the rest" law firms by The Vault. "This recognition is further evidence of our numerous efforts to build a workplace where Mayer Brown people will thrive as professionals," said James D. Holzhauer, Chairman of Mayer Brown. "We are especially proud to note that this honor follows Working Mother's recent recognition of Mayer Brown as one of the 2007 Best Law Firms for Women and the MCCA's Sager Award." The Minority Corporate Counsel Association (MCCA) Thomas L. Sager Award is presented to law firms that demonstrate a commitment to creating a more inclusive legal profession and working environment. International law firm Mayer Brown[1] is delighted to announce the appointment of partners Clare Canning, Simon Willis and Matthew Lawson, who will join the firm from Barlow Lyde & Gilbert. Clare led the high profile commercial litigation team, which included Simon and Matthew, best known for its work on the defence of Equitable Life's ÂŁ2.6 billion claim against Ernst & Young for which it won 'Dispute Resolution Team of the Year' at the Legal Business Awards, 'Litigation Team of the Year' at the annual Legal Week Awards and together with Brick Court Chambers, Ernst & Young and 7 King's Bench Walk, the 'Litigation Team of the Year' at The Lawyer Awards. Clare, Simon and Matthew are recognised for their expertise in large-scale commercial litigation for significant corporate professional clients, including the Big Four accountants. Their arrival will complement Mayer Brown's existing global litigation team and further enhance the firm's capability in large scale commercial disputes. The team will work closely with the U.S. litigation team, which is also renowned for its expertise in acting for the Big Four, giving the Litigation & Dispute Resolution practice a unique international platform from which to advise clients. Joining Mayer Brown in London, are: Clare Canning. Clare has been a partner at Barlow Lyde & Gilbert since 1992 and the Head of Commercial Litigation since 2004. She has wide experience of litigation and arbitration across a broad spectrum of matters and advises numerous financial institutions, hedge funds and private equity houses. She is well known for her litigation advice in particular in relation to high-profile disputes in London and internationally. She is recognised as a leader in her field by independent legal directories Chambers UK and UK Legal 500. She led the team on Equitable Life. Simon Willis. Simon joined Barlow Lyde & Gilbert in 1998 and was made a partner in 2003. He has considerable expertise and experience in the field of professional liability. In addition his practice covers a range of commercial disputes for both corporate and professional clients, in particular banking and financial services, corporate and M&A activity, corporate insolvency, shareholder agreements, consultancy and other professional services. He is well known for his work for Ernst & Young in relation its successful defence of the major claim brought by the Equitable Life. Matthew Lawson. Matthew was also made a partner in 2003 in the commercial litigation team at Barlow Lyde & Gilbert. Specialising in commercial litigation, particularly claims against professional service firms, he has extensive experience of large-scale disputes. In particular he is experienced in disciplinary and regulatory investigations, public inquiries, as well as litigation both within and outside the UK. He also acts for both claimants and defendants on contract and licensing disputes and acts for insurers and insureds in defending professional indemnity claims. Commenting on behalf of the team joining Mayer Brown, Clare Canning said: "I have enjoyed my time at Barlows and am now looking forward to a new challenge. Mayer Brown's existing expertise coupled with its commitment to develop its litigation practice is enormously attractive in terms of the opportunities it presents." Paul Maher, Vice-Chairman Mayer Brown, continued: "Big-ticket litigation is one of Mayer Brown's core components, and it remains critical that we boost our offering for clients, where we can, as part of the execution of our strategy. It is also an area which has enormous potential for client service internationally. While our U.S. and European teams work together regularly, by developing a global practice which is ready to hit the ground running, we provide a strong offering for businesses with global interests and global challenges." Sean Connolly, London Senior Partner added: "The combination of Clare, Simon and Matthew's experience with our established UK capability will create a potent force. We already have over 30 litigation partners in London across various disciplines, and are one of the largest litigation practices in the world. By bringing in this significant team, we intend to make sure we remain a real force to be reckoned with." David Allen, London Head of Litigation said: "We are delighted that Clare, Simon and Matthew will be joining our litigation team in London. Their appointment will significantly enhance our existing expertise and is another step forward in the implementation of our litigation strategy in London." International law firm Mayer Brown[1] is delighted to announce the appointment of partners Clare Canning, Simon Willis and Matthew Lawson, who will join the firm from Barlow Lyde & Gilbert. Clare led the high profile commercial litigation team, which included Simon and Matthew, best known for its work on the defence of Equitable Life's ÂŁ2.6 billion claim against Ernst & Young for which it won 'Dispute Resolution Team of the Year' at the Legal Business Awards, 'Litigation Team of the Year' at the annual Legal Week Awards and together with Brick Court Chambers, Ernst & Young and 7 King's Bench Walk, the 'Litigation Team of the Year' at The Lawyer Awards. Clare, Simon and Matthew are recognised for their expertise in large-scale commercial litigation for significant corporate professional clients, including the Big Four accountants. Their arrival will complement Mayer Brown's existing global litigation team and further enhance the firm's capability in large scale commercial disputes. The team will work closely with the U.S. litigation team, which is also renowned for its expertise in acting for the Big Four, giving the Litigation & Dispute Resolution practice a unique international platform from which to advise clients. Joining Mayer Brown in London, are: Clare Canning. Clare has been a partner at Barlow Lyde & Gilbert since 1992 and the Head of Commercial Litigation since 2004. She has wide experience of litigation and arbitration across a broad spectrum of matters and advises numerous financial institutions, hedge funds and private equity houses. She is well known for her litigation advice in particular in relation to high-profile disputes in London and internationally. She is recognised as a leader in her field by independent legal directories Chambers UK and UK Legal 500. She led the team on Equitable Life. Simon Willis. Simon joined Barlow Lyde & Gilbert in 1998 and was made a partner in 2003. He has considerable expertise and experience in the field of professional liability. In addition his practice covers a range of commercial disputes for both corporate and professional clients, in particular banking and financial services, corporate and M&A activity, corporate insolvency, shareholder agreements, consultancy and other professional services. He is well known for his work for Ernst & Young in relation its successful defence of the major claim brought by the Equitable Life. Matthew Lawson. Matthew was also made a partner in 2003 in the commercial litigation team at Barlow Lyde & Gilbert. Specialising in commercial litigation, particularly claims against professional service firms, he has extensive experience of large-scale disputes. In particular he is experienced in disciplinary and regulatory investigations, public inquiries, as well as litigation both within and outside the UK. He also acts for both claimants and defendants on contract and licensing disputes and acts for insurers and insureds in defending professional indemnity claims. Commenting on behalf of the team joining Mayer Brown, Clare Canning said: "I have enjoyed my time at Barlows and am now looking forward to a new challenge. Mayer Brown's existing expertise coupled with its commitment to develop its litigation practice is enormously attractive in terms of the opportunities it presents." Paul Maher, Vice-Chairman Mayer Brown, continued: "Big-ticket litigation is one of Mayer Brown's core components, and it remains critical that we boost our offering for clients, where we can, as part of the execution of our strategy. It is also an area which has enormous potential for client service internationally. While our U.S. and European teams work together regularly, by developing a global practice which is ready to hit the ground running, we provide a strong offering for businesses with global interests and global challenges." Sean Connolly, London Senior Partner added: "The combination of Clare, Simon and Matthew's experience with our established UK capability will create a potent force. We already have over 30 litigation partners in London across various disciplines, and are one of the largest litigation practices in the world. By bringing in this significant team, we intend to make sure we remain a real force to be reckoned with." David Allen, London Head of Litigation said: "We are delighted that Clare, Simon and Matthew will be joining our litigation team in London. Their appointment will significantly enhance our existing expertise and is another step forward in the implementation of our litigation strategy in London." Mayer Brown LLP is pleased to announce the formation of its Financial Services Regulatory and Enforcement Group, which brings together practitioners from across the firm who focus on regulatory, enforcement, litigation, and policy matters for leading financial services firms. The firm's new practice group, which is composed of approximately 50 lawyers from several offices, including New York, Washington, Chicago, Houston and London, allows Mayer Brown to meet the rapidly-changing and growing needs of our banking, securities, investment management, insurance and other financial institution clients. "Our multidisciplinary team of lawyers provides integrated strategic solutions to the full range of financial services regulatory and enforcement issues," said James D. Holzhauer, Chairman of Mayer Brown. He continued, "We have a diverse and highly talented group of attorneys to serve our substantial base of financial services clients, on both domestic and cross-border issues." Mayer Brown's strong global capabilities and diverse client base provide an excellent platform to grow and support the practice. Commented Vice Chairman Paul Maher, "The formation of the new group is a logical step that supports the firm's ongoing commitment to excellence in the representation of its financial services clients across the globe." The formation of the group in large part was made possible by the rapidly-increasing number of attorneys in Mayer Brown's financial services related practices. Since mid-2005, the firm has added almost 30 lawyers, including 15 partners, whose practices focus on investment management and financial services regulatory and enforcement matters. Mayer Brown LLP is pleased to announce the formation of its Financial Services Regulatory and Enforcement Group, which brings together practitioners from across the firm who focus on regulatory, enforcement, litigation, and policy matters for leading financial services firms. The firm's new practice group, which is composed of approximately 50 lawyers from several offices, including New York, Washington, Chicago, Houston and London, allows Mayer Brown to meet the rapidly-changing and growing needs of our banking, securities, investment management, insurance and other financial institution clients. "Our multidisciplinary team of lawyers provides integrated strategic solutions to the full range of financial services regulatory and enforcement issues," said James D. Holzhauer, Chairman of Mayer Brown. He continued, "We have a diverse and highly talented group of attorneys to serve our substantial base of financial services clients, on both domestic and cross-border issues." Mayer Brown's strong global capabilities and diverse client base provide an excellent platform to grow and support the practice. Commented Vice Chairman Paul Maher, "The formation of the new group is a logical step that supports the firm's ongoing commitment to excellence in the representation of its financial services clients across the globe." The formation of the group in large part was made possible by the rapidly-increasing number of attorneys in Mayer Brown's financial services related practices. Since mid-2005, the firm has added almost 30 lawyers, including 15 partners, whose practices focus on investment management and financial services regulatory and enforcement matters. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1553 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1553&page=26 Address : 301 South College StreetSuite 2300 ,, Phone : 704-342-5250, City : Charlotte In recent years, a flurry of laws have been passed by Congress and state legislatures to protect the privacy and security of personal information. Among them is the North Carolina Identity Theft Protection Act, which became effective in December 2005 and is one the nation†s most sweeping identity theft protection laws. It applies to most businesses and requires employers to take certain ‽reasonable measures” to protect ‽personal information.” A company†s failure to comply with the Identity Theft Protection Act may result in exposure to significant liability. Several other laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Health Insurance Portability and Availability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), impose obligations on employers to keep sensitive employee data secure and confidential. In addition, the increasing use of e-mail, personal and social networking websites, and ‽blogging” by employees poses significant challenges for employers who wish to monitor their employees†job-related activities while avoiding claims for invasion of privacy. Join us on September 27th to learn more about the Identity Theft Protection Act and employee privacy rights, hear suggestions to reduce risks associated with ‽personal information” and sensitive employee data, and understand your rights and obligations when monitoring an employee†s job-related activities. In recent years, a flurry of laws have been passed by Congress and state legislatures to protect the privacy and security of personal information. Among them is the North Carolina Identity Theft Protection Act, which became effective in December 2005 and is one the nation†s most sweeping identity theft protection laws. It applies to most businesses and requires employers to take certain ‽reasonable measures” to protect ‽personal information.” A company†s failure to comply with the Identity Theft Protection Act may result in exposure to significant liability. Several other laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Health Insurance Portability and Availability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), impose obligations on employers to keep sensitive employee data secure and confidential. In addition, the increasing use of e-mail, personal and social networking websites, and ‽blogging” by employees poses significant challenges for employers who wish to monitor their employees†job-related activities while avoiding claims for invasion of privacy. Join us on September 27th to learn more about the Identity Theft Protection Act and employee privacy rights, hear suggestions to reduce risks associated with ‽personal information” and sensitive employee data, and understand your rights and obligations when monitoring an employee†s job-related activities. Twenty-two lawyers from Poyner & Spruill LLP were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2008. (Copyright 2008 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.) Best Lawyers bases its listings on an exhaustive and rigorous peer-review survey of the legal profession in which attorneys nationwide are asked to rate the top practitioners in their areas of practice in their jurisdictions. Because listings are based on the votes of other lawyers and cannot be bought, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor. The following Poyner & Spruill attorneys have been included in Best Lawyers: William T. ‽Bill” Belcher (Trust & Estates), William S. "Bill" Cherry, Jr. (Real Estate Law), Robin Tatum Currin (Land Use & Zoning Law), Joseph B. "Bo" Dempster, Jr. (Real Estate Law), H. Glenn Dunn (Environmental and Water Law), Thomas D. "Del" Eatman, Jr. (Real Estate Law), J. Nicholas "Nick" Ellis (Commercial Litigation), Lemuel H. "Chip" Gibbons III (Tax Law), Susanna K. "Susie" Gibbons (Labor and Employment Law), Meg D. Goldstein (Trusts & Estates), Eugene S. ‽Gene” Griggs (Employee Benefits Law), Cecil W. Harrison, Jr. (Commercial Litigation and Labor and Employment Law) Keith H. Johnson (Environmental Law), David W. Long (Commercial Litigation, White-Collar, and Non-White-Collar Criminal Defense), Frank P. Meadows, Jr. (Tax Law), E. Fitzgerald "Jerry" Parnell, III (White-Collar Criminal Defense and Legal Malpractice Law), Steven M. Shaber (Administrative Law), John L. Shaw (Construction Law), William R. ‽Bill” Shenton (Health Care Law), Timothy P. ‽Tim” Sullivan (Environmental Law) Thomas R. "Tom" West (Administrative Law), and Joseph E. "Joe" Zeszotarski, Jr. (White-Collar and Non-White-Collar Criminal Defense). Twenty-two lawyers from Poyner & Spruill LLP were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2008. (Copyright 2008 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.) Best Lawyers bases its listings on an exhaustive and rigorous peer-review survey of the legal profession in which attorneys nationwide are asked to rate the top practitioners in their areas of practice in their jurisdictions. Because listings are based on the votes of other lawyers and cannot be bought, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor. The following Poyner & Spruill attorneys have been included in Best Lawyers: William T. ‽Bill” Belcher (Trust & Estates), William S. "Bill" Cherry, Jr. (Real Estate Law), Robin Tatum Currin (Land Use & Zoning Law), Joseph B. "Bo" Dempster, Jr. (Real Estate Law), H. Glenn Dunn (Environmental and Water Law), Thomas D. "Del" Eatman, Jr. (Real Estate Law), J. Nicholas "Nick" Ellis (Commercial Litigation), Lemuel H. "Chip" Gibbons III (Tax Law), Susanna K. "Susie" Gibbons (Labor and Employment Law), Meg D. Goldstein (Trusts & Estates), Eugene S. ‽Gene” Griggs (Employee Benefits Law), Cecil W. Harrison, Jr. (Commercial Litigation and Labor and Employment Law) Keith H. Johnson (Environmental Law), David W. Long (Commercial Litigation, White-Collar, and Non-White-Collar Criminal Defense), Frank P. Meadows, Jr. (Tax Law), E. Fitzgerald "Jerry" Parnell, III (White-Collar Criminal Defense and Legal Malpractice Law), Steven M. Shaber (Administrative Law), John L. Shaw (Construction Law), William R. ‽Bill” Shenton (Health Care Law), Timothy P. ‽Tim” Sullivan (Environmental Law) Thomas R. "Tom" West (Administrative Law), and Joseph E. "Joe" Zeszotarski, Jr. (White-Collar and Non-White-Collar Criminal Defense). Poyner & Spruill LLP attorney Michelle C. Hunt was appointed Chair of the Legislation, State and Local Government Committee for the American Bar Association†s Section of Alternative Dispute Resolution. She has served as Vice Chair of the group for the past two years. The Committee tracks, compiles, and publishes state and federal ADR legislation, offers technical assistance to states in developing legislation, and testifies before Congress on matters related to dispute resolution. The Committee has identified goals for the coming year, including reviewing and evaluating legislation as it relates to Dispute Resolution, providing information on the ABA web site about ADR-related legislation and creating Uniform Mediation Act and Revised Uniform Arbitration Act resources. ‽I am excited about the opportunity to develop new resources for lawyers, neutrals and others interested in Dispute Resolution legislation, and look forward to expanding the Committee†s role in the coming year,” says Hunt. Hunt†s practice concentrates on civil litigation, employment law and communications matters, including issues related to commercial transactions, regulatory compliance and antitrust law. She received her B.A. from Stanford University, and her J.D. from the University of San Francisco. She may be reached at 704.342.5326 or mhunt@poynerspruill.com. Poyner & Spruill LLP attorney Michelle C. Hunt was appointed Chair of the Legislation, State and Local Government Committee for the American Bar Association†s Section of Alternative Dispute Resolution. She has served as Vice Chair of the group for the past two years. The Committee tracks, compiles, and publishes state and federal ADR legislation, offers technical assistance to states in developing legislation, and testifies before Congress on matters related to dispute resolution. The Committee has identified goals for the coming year, including reviewing and evaluating legislation as it relates to Dispute Resolution, providing information on the ABA web site about ADR-related legislation and creating Uniform Mediation Act and Revised Uniform Arbitration Act resources. ‽I am excited about the opportunity to develop new resources for lawyers, neutrals and others interested in Dispute Resolution legislation, and look forward to expanding the Committee†s role in the coming year,” says Hunt. Hunt†s practice concentrates on civil litigation, employment law and communications matters, including issues related to commercial transactions, regulatory compliance and antitrust law. She received her B.A. from Stanford University, and her J.D. from the University of San Francisco. She may be reached at 704.342.5326 or mhunt@poynerspruill.com. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1916 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1916&page=27 Address : First Citiznes Bank Plaza128 South Tryon Street , Suite 1800, Phone : 704-375-0057, City : Charlotte The law firm of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP is pleased to announce that Theodore C. Taub, Partner in the Tampa office, who has represented the City of Temple Terrace for more than 39 years has handed over City Attorney duties to his partner, Mark A. Connolly, at the City Council meeting on September 4, 2007. During the meeting, Mr. Taub stated, ‽[A]lthough engaged in practicing municipal law since 1963, I was formally named City Attorney when Red McEwen, a great man and my mentor, in 1974 passed me the torch. Now Mark will step into my shoes. I have served with seven Mayors, 25 different members of City Council, several City Managers, City Clerks and many City staff. Serving as Temple Terrace City Attorney has been the highlight of my public service career. I thank the City for honoring me over the years and here tonight. The trip has been spectacular!” Mr. Connolly has extensive experience in representing counties and municipalities in litigation matters in both state and federal court, and providing general counsel representation to municipalities at public meetings, and in reviewing and negotiating public and private contracts. Mr. Connolly†s litigation experience is diverse, as he has successfully represented individuals, businesses and governmental clients in commercial, tort and land-use litigation at the trial level and on appeal. His expertise also includes representation of health care providers in administrative and litigation matters, and he has substantial experience in the enforcement of restrictive covenants. Mr. Connolly is ‽AV” rated by Martindale Hubbell and he is admitted to practice in all State and Federal courts in the State of Florida. Mr. Connolly is a member of the Hillsborough County School District†s capacity advisory committee. Mr. Taub recently received the 2007 Ralph A. Marsicano Award, the most prestigious award given out annually by the Florida Bar†s local government law section to a lawyer for his long-standing contributions to local government law. Mr. Taub has extensive experience in transactional real estate, land use and related litigation, representing both the private and public sectors almost over 47 years at the Bar. A graduate of Duke and the University of Florida, he has served three Florida Governors in significant regional and statewide endeavors. He has lectured for the ABA, ALI-ABA, the Florida Bar, the Practising Law Institute, the Florida Redevelopment Association, ICSC, ULI, and a number of other organizations, over the years and authored numerous articles regarding real estate, land use, title insurance and eminent domain. He has been a part time City Attorney for over 39 years. Mr. Taub is a member of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers and a Florida Bar Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer. He is a past member of the Board of Visitors of Duke University†s Terry Sanford Institute of Public Policy. Mr. Taub has held several other public service positions with state and local government, including ten years as Chairman of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Expressway Authority. His most recent publication is ‽Reflections on 40 Years as a Part-time City Attorney” in the winter issue of Real Estate Law Journal. Mr. Taub is listed in Best Lawyers in America and is a Florida Super Lawyer. The law firm of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP is pleased to announce that Theodore C. Taub, Partner in the Tampa office, who has represented the City of Temple Terrace for more than 39 years has handed over City Attorney duties to his partner, Mark A. Connolly, at the City Council meeting on September 4, 2007. During the meeting, Mr. Taub stated, ‽[A]lthough engaged in practicing municipal law since 1963, I was formally named City Attorney when Red McEwen, a great man and my mentor, in 1974 passed me the torch. Now Mark will step into my shoes. I have served with seven Mayors, 25 different members of City Council, several City Managers, City Clerks and many City staff. Serving as Temple Terrace City Attorney has been the highlight of my public service career. I thank the City for honoring me over the years and here tonight. The trip has been spectacular!” Mr. Connolly has extensive experience in representing counties and municipalities in litigation matters in both state and federal court, and providing general counsel representation to municipalities at public meetings, and in reviewing and negotiating public and private contracts. Mr. Connolly†s litigation experience is diverse, as he has successfully represented individuals, businesses and governmental clients in commercial, tort and land-use litigation at the trial level and on appeal. His expertise also includes representation of health care providers in administrative and litigation matters, and he has substantial experience in the enforcement of restrictive covenants. Mr. Connolly is ‽AV” rated by Martindale Hubbell and he is admitted to practice in all State and Federal courts in the State of Florida. Mr. Connolly is a member of the Hillsborough County School District†s capacity advisory committee. Mr. Taub recently received the 2007 Ralph A. Marsicano Award, the most prestigious award given out annually by the Florida Bar†s local government law section to a lawyer for his long-standing contributions to local government law. Mr. Taub has extensive experience in transactional real estate, land use and related litigation, representing both the private and public sectors almost over 47 years at the Bar. A graduate of Duke and the University of Florida, he has served three Florida Governors in significant regional and statewide endeavors. He has lectured for the ABA, ALI-ABA, the Florida Bar, the Practising Law Institute, the Florida Redevelopment Association, ICSC, ULI, and a number of other organizations, over the years and authored numerous articles regarding real estate, land use, title insurance and eminent domain. He has been a part time City Attorney for over 39 years. Mr. Taub is a member of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers and a Florida Bar Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer. He is a past member of the Board of Visitors of Duke University†s Terry Sanford Institute of Public Policy. Mr. Taub has held several other public service positions with state and local government, including ten years as Chairman of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Expressway Authority. His most recent publication is ‽Reflections on 40 Years as a Part-time City Attorney” in the winter issue of Real Estate Law Journal. Mr. Taub is listed in Best Lawyers in America and is a Florida Super Lawyer. Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP is pleased to announce that Jessica Paz Mahoney has joined the Tampa office as an Associate in the Real Estate Practice Group. Ms. Mahoney comes to Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP, from Donna J. Feldman, P.A., where she advised clients in all aspects of real estate development and contractual matters. Ms. Mahoney received her J.D. from Stetson University in 2001, cum laude, and her B.A. from the University of Florida, in 1998, with honors. Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP is pleased to announce that Jessica Paz Mahoney has joined the Tampa office as an Associate in the Real Estate Practice Group. Ms. Mahoney comes to Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP, from Donna J. Feldman, P.A., where she advised clients in all aspects of real estate development and contractual matters. Ms. Mahoney received her J.D. from Stetson University in 2001, cum laude, and her B.A. from the University of Florida, in 1998, with honors. The law firm of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick is pleased to announce that Jenay E. Iurato, Associate in the Tampa office, will serve on the Stetson Lawyers Association Advisory Council for a three year term beginning Fall 2007. Ms. Iurato†s principal areas of practice are commercial litigation, federal court litigation, and labor and employment law. Ms. Iurato received her J.D. and M.B.A. from Stetson University College of Law in 2000 and her B.S. and B.A. from Pepperdine University in 1994. The law firm of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick is pleased to announce that Jenay E. Iurato, Associate in the Tampa office, will serve on the Stetson Lawyers Association Advisory Council for a three year term beginning Fall 2007. Ms. Iurato†s principal areas of practice are commercial litigation, federal court litigation, and labor and employment law. Ms. Iurato received her J.D. and M.B.A. from Stetson University College of Law in 2000 and her B.S. and B.A. from Pepperdine University in 1994. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2186 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2186&page=28 Address : 1023 West Morehead StreetSuite 301 ,, Phone : 704-334-3459, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2213 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2213&page=29 Address : 301 McCullough DriveSuite 510 ,, Phone : 704-307-4600, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2359 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2359&page=30 Address : 65 McCachern Boulevard, SEP.O. Box 444 ,, Phone : 704-788-3211, City : Concord http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=739 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=739&page=31 Address : 2525 Meridian ParkwaySuite 300 ,, Phone : 919-688-7393, City : Durham http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=294 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=294&page=32 Address : P.O. Drawer 3600, Phone : 919-682-9691, City : Durham http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1938 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1938&page=33 Address : 4819 Emperor BoulevardSuite 400 ,, Phone : 919-313-4750, City : Durham http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1149 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1149&page=34 Address : 308 Person Street, Phone : 910-678-8900, City : Fayetteville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1673 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1673&page=35 Address : P.O. Box 2505, Phone : 910-864-6888, City : Fayetteville The Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton, P.A., an established creditors†rights and civil litigation law firm based in Fayetteville, North Carolina, announced today that Cynthia D. Hawkins has joined the Firm as Marketing Director. Prior to joining Hutchens, Senter & Britton, Hawkins was a Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator for Cape Fear Valley Health System. She also teaches English at Methodist University. Hawkins received her undergraduate degree in Writing from Methodist University, and her graduate degree in English and English Literature from Fayetteville State University. The Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton, P.A., an established creditors†rights and civil litigation law firm based in Fayetteville, North Carolina, announced today that Cynthia D. Hawkins has joined the Firm as Marketing Director. Prior to joining Hutchens, Senter & Britton, Hawkins was a Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator for Cape Fear Valley Health System. She also teaches English at Methodist University. Hawkins received her undergraduate degree in Writing from Methodist University, and her graduate degree in English and English Literature from Fayetteville State University. Andrew Cogbill, an attorney with The Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton, P.A., an established creditors†rights, civil litigation, and real estate law firm with an office in Charlotte, North Carolina, recently passed the South Carolina bar and is now licensed to practice law in South Carolina as well as North Carolina. Cogbill†s practice is located in the Firm†s Charlotte office where he concentrates in the areas of foreclosure and real estate, providing legal counsel to a wide range of clients. Cogbill earned undergraduate degrees in both humanities and English literature from the University of Toledo and, in 2001, his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Toledo College of Law. Andrew Cogbill, an attorney with The Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton, P.A., an established creditors†rights, civil litigation, and real estate law firm with an office in Charlotte, North Carolina, recently passed the South Carolina bar and is now licensed to practice law in South Carolina as well as North Carolina. Cogbill†s practice is located in the Firm†s Charlotte office where he concentrates in the areas of foreclosure and real estate, providing legal counsel to a wide range of clients. Cogbill earned undergraduate degrees in both humanities and English literature from the University of Toledo and, in 2001, his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Toledo College of Law. Attorney David Ford and Paralegal Angey Nicol of the Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton joined North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall at the Johnston County Courthouse Thursday morning to usher in a new era in document recording. Ford demonstrated the first live electronic recording (eRecording) of a legal document under North Carolina†s recently approved Electronic Recording Council rules. Following passage of a new law in January, North Carolina became the first state in the nation to offer electronic notarization. The new technology was developed to save the public time and money, allowing cost-effective electronic filing of documents that typically were sent through regular mail or courier Ford, who completed additional training to be authorized as an e-notary, says the electronic recording of documents with the Register of Deeds will benefit clients. ‽Advancements in technology create opportunities to increase efficiency” says Ford, ‽When we understand and embrace these advancements, we are better prepared to serve our clients.” Only currently commissioned notaries can become electronic notaries by taking additional training to earn their e-notary certification. Attorney David Ford and Paralegal Angey Nicol of the Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton joined North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall at the Johnston County Courthouse Thursday morning to usher in a new era in document recording. Ford demonstrated the first live electronic recording (eRecording) of a legal document under North Carolina†s recently approved Electronic Recording Council rules. Following passage of a new law in January, North Carolina became the first state in the nation to offer electronic notarization. The new technology was developed to save the public time and money, allowing cost-effective electronic filing of documents that typically were sent through regular mail or courier Ford, who completed additional training to be authorized as an e-notary, says the electronic recording of documents with the Register of Deeds will benefit clients. ‽Advancements in technology create opportunities to increase efficiency” says Ford, ‽When we understand and embrace these advancements, we are better prepared to serve our clients.” Only currently commissioned notaries can become electronic notaries by taking additional training to earn their e-notary certification. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2350 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2350&page=36 Address : 235 North Edgeworth StreetP.O. Box 540 ,, Phone : 336-379-8651, City : Greensboro http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=391 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=391&page=37 Address : 300 N. Greene StreetSuite 1400 ,, Phone : 336-378-5200, City : Greensboro The Greensboro office of Smith Moore LLP has been named by the Triad Business Journal as one of the ten best places to work among mid-sized businesses in the Triad. The publication selected Smith Moore for the top ten distinction based on results of an anonymous employee satisfaction survey administered by independent researchers. The recognition was not limited to law firms but instead covered all businesses in the Triad. Smith Moore was the only law firm to receive the honor in the mid-size company category, which includes businesses with 51-250 employees. "We are proud of this award because it means that our emphasis on teamwork in client service is working," said Smith Moore managing partner, Steve Earp. "For our law firm to be truly successful for its clients, every person on our team must feel that their contributions are valued. It is gratifying to see that Smith Moore employees fully support that idea. They are building teamwork into every aspect of our culture." The Greensboro office of Smith Moore LLP has been named by the Triad Business Journal as one of the ten best places to work among mid-sized businesses in the Triad. The publication selected Smith Moore for the top ten distinction based on results of an anonymous employee satisfaction survey administered by independent researchers. The recognition was not limited to law firms but instead covered all businesses in the Triad. Smith Moore was the only law firm to receive the honor in the mid-size company category, which includes businesses with 51-250 employees. "We are proud of this award because it means that our emphasis on teamwork in client service is working," said Smith Moore managing partner, Steve Earp. "For our law firm to be truly successful for its clients, every person on our team must feel that their contributions are valued. It is gratifying to see that Smith Moore employees fully support that idea. They are building teamwork into every aspect of our culture." Smith Moore LLP has added a new attorney to its Raleigh office, continuing the growth that has expanded the firm's ranks by nearly one-fourth over the past six months. Kelly Ensslin is the newest addition to Smith Moore; she joins the Litigation practice area in Raleigh. A graduate of the North Carolina Central University School of Law, Ensslin is a former North Carolina Magistrate in Judicial District 15B, has worked as law clerk to U.S. Magistrate Judge William Webb and was an attorney for Lenovo, Inc. in Research Triangle Park. "With her background related to federal litigation and business law on the corporate side, Kelly immediately deepens Smith Moore's capabilities in business litigation," said Mark Finkelstein, a partner in Smith Moore's litigation practice area. "Defense of white collar crime allegations, professional licensing issues and resolution of business disputes are areas where demand for Smith Moore's services are growing, and Kelly's practice will involve each of those areas." Ensslin said, "I am truly excited about the opportunity to work with attorneys who are as widely respected as my new colleagues at Smith Moore. I could not dream of a better situation in which to develop my practice." Smith Moore LLP has added a new attorney to its Raleigh office, continuing the growth that has expanded the firm's ranks by nearly one-fourth over the past six months. Kelly Ensslin is the newest addition to Smith Moore; she joins the Litigation practice area in Raleigh. A graduate of the North Carolina Central University School of Law, Ensslin is a former North Carolina Magistrate in Judicial District 15B, has worked as law clerk to U.S. Magistrate Judge William Webb and was an attorney for Lenovo, Inc. in Research Triangle Park. "With her background related to federal litigation and business law on the corporate side, Kelly immediately deepens Smith Moore's capabilities in business litigation," said Mark Finkelstein, a partner in Smith Moore's litigation practice area. "Defense of white collar crime allegations, professional licensing issues and resolution of business disputes are areas where demand for Smith Moore's services are growing, and Kelly's practice will involve each of those areas." Ensslin said, "I am truly excited about the opportunity to work with attorneys who are as widely respected as my new colleagues at Smith Moore. I could not dream of a better situation in which to develop my practice." Smith Moore LLP continues the expansion of its Wilmington office with the addition of its fourth attorney since June. Aimee Ezzell joins the real estate development practice, becoming the 25th attorney overall to join the firm this year. Michael Lee, a partner in Smith Moore's Wilmington office, says Ezzell's addition reflects fast-changing developments in both the firm and the region. "The rapid growth in the commercial real estate market necessitates that we expand our capacity to serve this region," Lee says. "There are already several major corporations and developers who have, or are looking to, bring their business to this region of the state and beyond. We are increasing our own capabilities in order to position ourselves as an asset to development needs in Wilmington's real estate landscape, as well as across the Southeast." Ezzell's practice will focus on real estate development and corporate law. She joins Smith Moore after pursuing a varied practice across the country, including a clerkship with the United States Court of Appeals, practice with Keker & Van Nest, LLP in San Francisco, and most recently, practice in the Wilmington office of Fletcher, Ray and Satterfield, LLP. "I'm looking forward to being a part of the Smith Moore team," said Ezzell. "Smith Moore is well known for its real estate capabilities and I'm eager to help continue the growth and success of that practice in Wilmington." Ezzell is a graduate of Wake Forest University and the Yale Law School. She is a member of the American Bar Association and state bar associations of New York, California and North Carolina. Smith Moore LLP continues the expansion of its Wilmington office with the addition of its fourth attorney since June. Aimee Ezzell joins the real estate development practice, becoming the 25th attorney overall to join the firm this year. Michael Lee, a partner in Smith Moore's Wilmington office, says Ezzell's addition reflects fast-changing developments in both the firm and the region. "The rapid growth in the commercial real estate market necessitates that we expand our capacity to serve this region," Lee says. "There are already several major corporations and developers who have, or are looking to, bring their business to this region of the state and beyond. We are increasing our own capabilities in order to position ourselves as an asset to development needs in Wilmington's real estate landscape, as well as across the Southeast." Ezzell's practice will focus on real estate development and corporate law. She joins Smith Moore after pursuing a varied practice across the country, including a clerkship with the United States Court of Appeals, practice with Keker & Van Nest, LLP in San Francisco, and most recently, practice in the Wilmington office of Fletcher, Ray and Satterfield, LLP. "I'm looking forward to being a part of the Smith Moore team," said Ezzell. "Smith Moore is well known for its real estate capabilities and I'm eager to help continue the growth and success of that practice in Wilmington." Ezzell is a graduate of Wake Forest University and the Yale Law School. She is a member of the American Bar Association and state bar associations of New York, California and North Carolina. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2209 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2209&page=38 Address : P.O. Box 2888, Phone : 336-378-1431, City : Greensboro David Bury, an Associate, is a member of the Business & Tax and Bankruptcy practice groups. His practice focuses in the area of corporations, limited liability companies, mergers and acquisitions, commercial transactions, tax, and representing creditors in federal bankruptcy proceedings and bankruptcy-related litigation. David received his law degree from the Wake Forest University School of Law in 2006, where he served as a Notes and Comments Editor on the Wake Forest Law Review and a teaching assistant in the writing program. Before law school, he was a management consultant at a Chicago-based firm where he served various Fortune 500 companies. David received a B.B.A. in Accounting and Finance from the University of Georgia in 1999, where he was a Georgia Governor's Scholar, a University of Georgia Alumni Scholar, and a recipient of the Honors Program Certificate of Achievement. David is admitted to practice law in North Carolina. David Bury, an Associate, is a member of the Business & Tax and Bankruptcy practice groups. His practice focuses in the area of corporations, limited liability companies, mergers and acquisitions, commercial transactions, tax, and representing creditors in federal bankruptcy proceedings and bankruptcy-related litigation. David received his law degree from the Wake Forest University School of Law in 2006, where he served as a Notes and Comments Editor on the Wake Forest Law Review and a teaching assistant in the writing program. Before law school, he was a management consultant at a Chicago-based firm where he served various Fortune 500 companies. David received a B.B.A. in Accounting and Finance from the University of Georgia in 1999, where he was a Georgia Governor's Scholar, a University of Georgia Alumni Scholar, and a recipient of the Honors Program Certificate of Achievement. David is admitted to practice law in North Carolina. Jessica Cox, an Associate, is a member of both the Dispute Resolution & Litigation and the Business & Tax practice groups. Jessica focuses on commercial Real Estate, including closings, foreclosures, lease preparation, and property line disputes. Jessica received her law degree from Duke University in 2006, where she was a Jack M. Knight Scholar. Jessica was also Articles Editor for the Duke Journal of Gender Law & Policy. Prior to law school, she received her B.S.B.A. in Economics from Appalachian State University, summa cum laude, where she was a member of Alpha Chi, Beta Gamma Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi, and Omicron Delta Epsilon. Jessica is admitted to practice law in North Carolina. Jessica Cox, an Associate, is a member of both the Dispute Resolution & Litigation and the Business & Tax practice groups. Jessica focuses on commercial Real Estate, including closings, foreclosures, lease preparation, and property line disputes. Jessica received her law degree from Duke University in 2006, where she was a Jack M. Knight Scholar. Jessica was also Articles Editor for the Duke Journal of Gender Law & Policy. Prior to law school, she received her B.S.B.A. in Economics from Appalachian State University, summa cum laude, where she was a member of Alpha Chi, Beta Gamma Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi, and Omicron Delta Epsilon. Jessica is admitted to practice law in North Carolina. Tuggle Duggins is pleased to announce that Richard J. Tuggle, James N. Duggins, Jr., David F. Meschan, H. Vaughn Ramsey and Michael J. Wenig have been recognized in the 2007 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Published since 1983, The Best Lawyers in America is a preeminent referral guide to the legal profession in the United States. The publication, representing 57 specialty practice areas, compiles lists through an exhaustive peer-review survey in which thousands of the top lawyers in the U.S. confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The 2007 edition is based on more than 1.8 million detailed evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers. Tuggle, Duggins, Ramsey and Wenig were recognized for their legal expertise in tax law. Meschan was recognized in the area of bankruptcy law/creditor†s rights. Tuggle has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America for more than twenty (20) years. Duggins and Meschan have been listed for more than ten (10) years. Tuggle Duggins is pleased to announce that Richard J. Tuggle, James N. Duggins, Jr., David F. Meschan, H. Vaughn Ramsey and Michael J. Wenig have been recognized in the 2007 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Published since 1983, The Best Lawyers in America is a preeminent referral guide to the legal profession in the United States. The publication, representing 57 specialty practice areas, compiles lists through an exhaustive peer-review survey in which thousands of the top lawyers in the U.S. confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The 2007 edition is based on more than 1.8 million detailed evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers. Tuggle, Duggins, Ramsey and Wenig were recognized for their legal expertise in tax law. Meschan was recognized in the area of bankruptcy law/creditor†s rights. Tuggle has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America for more than twenty (20) years. Duggins and Meschan have been listed for more than ten (10) years. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2409 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2409&page=39 Address : 410 Blandwood Avenue, Phone : 336-379-8448, City : Greensboro http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100187 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100187&page=42 Address : 208 West Wendover, Phone : 336-273-3812, City : Greensboro http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=643 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=643&page=43 Address : 209 Commerce StreetSuite C, Phone : 252-353-7300, City : Greenville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1015 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1015&page=44 Address : 120 West Fire Tower RoadP.O. Box 8088 ,, Phone : 252-215-4000, City : Greenville Ward and Smith, P.A. is pleased to announce that financial institutions attorney Matthew A. Cordell, labor and employment attorney Kyle R. Still, and litigation and family law attorney Lauren E. Taylor joined the firm effective September 10. All three of the attorneys will work in the firm's New Bern office. Matthew A. Cordell received his law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 2007. He was a member of The North Carolina Law Review and a Chancellors Scholar. Mr. Cordell received his M.B.A. and his B.A. in Business Administration from Campbell University in 2004. He was a 2006 Summer Associate at Ward and Smith and an intern for Justice Paul M. Newby of the North Carolina Supreme Court in 2005. Kyle R. Still also received his law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 2007. He was a member of The North Carolina Law Review and the Sports and Entertainment Law Association. He received his B.A. in Political Science from the University of North Carolina in 2004. Mr. Still worked as a Summer Associate for Ward and Smith in 2006 and served as an intern for Justice Mark Martin of the North Carolina Supreme Court in 2005. Lauren E. Taylor earned her law degree from Campbell University School of Law in 2005 and her M.B.A. from Campbell University in 2005. She received a B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communications from the University of North Carolina in 2002. Ms. Taylor has routinely drafted opinions, reviewed appellate briefs, and researched legal issues as a law clerk for the Honorable J. Douglas McCullough of the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Ward and Smith, P.A. is pleased to announce that financial institutions attorney Matthew A. Cordell, labor and employment attorney Kyle R. Still, and litigation and family law attorney Lauren E. Taylor joined the firm effective September 10. All three of the attorneys will work in the firm's New Bern office. Matthew A. Cordell received his law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 2007. He was a member of The North Carolina Law Review and a Chancellors Scholar. Mr. Cordell received his M.B.A. and his B.A. in Business Administration from Campbell University in 2004. He was a 2006 Summer Associate at Ward and Smith and an intern for Justice Paul M. Newby of the North Carolina Supreme Court in 2005. Kyle R. Still also received his law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 2007. He was a member of The North Carolina Law Review and the Sports and Entertainment Law Association. He received his B.A. in Political Science from the University of North Carolina in 2004. Mr. Still worked as a Summer Associate for Ward and Smith in 2006 and served as an intern for Justice Mark Martin of the North Carolina Supreme Court in 2005. Lauren E. Taylor earned her law degree from Campbell University School of Law in 2005 and her M.B.A. from Campbell University in 2005. She received a B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communications from the University of North Carolina in 2002. Ms. Taylor has routinely drafted opinions, reviewed appellate briefs, and researched legal issues as a law clerk for the Honorable J. Douglas McCullough of the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Paul A. Fanning, an attorney with Ward and Smith, P.A., successfully completed the requirements for national certification by the American Board of Certification in both business and consumer bankruptcy law. The American Board of Certification is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the public and improving the quality of the bankruptcy bar. To be certified, a lawyer must: practice law full time for at least five years and be in good standing in all states in which a license to practice law is held; devote at least 30% of practice time and at least 400 hours to bankruptcy related matters in the last three years; have documented involvement in business and consumer bankruptcy; have earned at least 60 hours of bankruptcy education in the past three years; and pass an extensive one and a half day-long written examination covering business and consumer bankruptcy issues. The American Board of Certification offers separate certification programs in business and consumer bankruptcy and creditors' rights. All three certification programs are accredited by the American Bar Association. Mr. Fanning graduated from Wake Forest University School of Law in 1998. He is a member of the American Bar Association and the Bankruptcy Council of the Bankruptcy Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association. Mr. Fanning's practice experience encompasses bankruptcy, collections, creditors' rights, and lender liability. He concentrates his practice in representation of creditors in bankruptcy and collections, including workouts, reorganizations, and liquidations. Mr. Fanning serves clients throughout North Carolina and the southeast from his office in Greenville. Mr. Fanning also is certified as a Board Certified Specialist in Business and Consumer Bankruptcy Law by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. Paul A. Fanning, an attorney with Ward and Smith, P.A., successfully completed the requirements for national certification by the American Board of Certification in both business and consumer bankruptcy law. The American Board of Certification is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the public and improving the quality of the bankruptcy bar. To be certified, a lawyer must: practice law full time for at least five years and be in good standing in all states in which a license to practice law is held; devote at least 30% of practice time and at least 400 hours to bankruptcy related matters in the last three years; have documented involvement in business and consumer bankruptcy; have earned at least 60 hours of bankruptcy education in the past three years; and pass an extensive one and a half day-long written examination covering business and consumer bankruptcy issues. The American Board of Certification offers separate certification programs in business and consumer bankruptcy and creditors' rights. All three certification programs are accredited by the American Bar Association. Mr. Fanning graduated from Wake Forest University School of Law in 1998. He is a member of the American Bar Association and the Bankruptcy Council of the Bankruptcy Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association. Mr. Fanning's practice experience encompasses bankruptcy, collections, creditors' rights, and lender liability. He concentrates his practice in representation of creditors in bankruptcy and collections, including workouts, reorganizations, and liquidations. Mr. Fanning serves clients throughout North Carolina and the southeast from his office in Greenville. Mr. Fanning also is certified as a Board Certified Specialist in Business and Consumer Bankruptcy Law by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. Ward and Smith, P.A. is pleased to announce that Douglas A. Scholer joined its Business Section on August 6, 2007. Mr. Scholer will work from the firm's Wilmington office. His practice is limited to federal patent law before the United States Patent and Trademark Office while his license to practice state law in North Carolina is pending. Mr. Scholer is licensed to practice law in Ohio. After obtaining his North Carolina license, his practice primarily will be focused on intellectual property, including computer, telecommunications, medical device, automobile, and general electrical technologies. Mr. Scholer has extensive experience in patent prosecution, including searches, application preparation, filings, and responses to office actions. Mr. Scholer received his law degree in 2000 from the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University and graduated in 1994 from the University of Notre Dame with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. He is a distinguished graduate of the Air Force Intelligence School and is an active member of the Air Force Reserves, serving as a captain. Mr. Scholer was an electrical engineer in the Foreign Technology Exploitation Division of the National Air Intelligence Center for five years. He has served as a guardian ad litem in the Hamilton County Juvenile Court in Ohio since 2000. Ward and Smith, P.A. serves as counsel for more mid- and large-sized businesses in eastern North Carolina than any other law firm. The firm has more than 70 attorneys who serve clients locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally from offices in Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, and Wilmington. Ward and Smith also is home to 17 attorneys included in the publication The Best Lawyers in America and 12 attorneys selected as "Legal Elite" from peer-review surveys published in Business North Carolina. The firm is recognized in BTI's Client Service A-Team for Law Firms, and one attorney, David L. Ward, Jr., is a member of the BTI Client Service All-Star Team. Ward and Smith, P.A. is pleased to announce that Douglas A. Scholer joined its Business Section on August 6, 2007. Mr. Scholer will work from the firm's Wilmington office. His practice is limited to federal patent law before the United States Patent and Trademark Office while his license to practice state law in North Carolina is pending. Mr. Scholer is licensed to practice law in Ohio. After obtaining his North Carolina license, his practice primarily will be focused on intellectual property, including computer, telecommunications, medical device, automobile, and general electrical technologies. Mr. Scholer has extensive experience in patent prosecution, including searches, application preparation, filings, and responses to office actions. Mr. Scholer received his law degree in 2000 from the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University and graduated in 1994 from the University of Notre Dame with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. He is a distinguished graduate of the Air Force Intelligence School and is an active member of the Air Force Reserves, serving as a captain. Mr. Scholer was an electrical engineer in the Foreign Technology Exploitation Division of the National Air Intelligence Center for five years. He has served as a guardian ad litem in the Hamilton County Juvenile Court in Ohio since 2000. Ward and Smith, P.A. serves as counsel for more mid- and large-sized businesses in eastern North Carolina than any other law firm. The firm has more than 70 attorneys who serve clients locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally from offices in Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, and Wilmington. Ward and Smith also is home to 17 attorneys included in the publication The Best Lawyers in America and 12 attorneys selected as "Legal Elite" from peer-review surveys published in Business North Carolina. The firm is recognized in BTI's Client Service A-Team for Law Firms, and one attorney, David L. Ward, Jr., is a member of the BTI Client Service All-Star Team. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2465 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2465&page=45 Address : 240 Third Avenue West, Phone : 828-692-2595, City : Hendersonville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1930 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1930&page=46 Address : P.O. Drawer 2086, Phone : 336-884-4444, City : High Point http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2610 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2610&page=48 Address : 112 Old Bridge StreetP.O. Box 1088 ,, Phone : 910-455-4065, City : Jacksonville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100123 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100123&page=49 Address : 131 South Queen StreetP.O. Box 3557 ,, Phone : 252-523-2000, City : Kinston http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2455 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2455&page=50