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 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:31:04 -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=46 Address : 1400 Crescent GreenSuite 300, Phone : 919-854-1844, City : Cary http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=460 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=460&page=3 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=39 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=5 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=40 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=7 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=8 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=9 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=10 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=11 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 £2.6 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 £2.6 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=12 Address : Bank of America Corporate Center100 North Tryon StreetSuite 4000, Phone : , 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=13 Address : 13925 Ballantyne Corp. PlaceSte. 200, Phone : 704-544-2500, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100118 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100118&page=14 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 €1.4 billion. The transactions, which closed on July 25, 2007 and August 9, 2007, respectively, were for €850 million secured floating-rate facilities issued by AIG MezzVest Investments II Limited and €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 €1.4 billion. The transactions, which closed on July 25, 2007 and August 9, 2007, respectively, were for €850 million secured floating-rate facilities issued by AIG MezzVest Investments II Limited and €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=15 Address : 214 North Tryon StreetSuite 2500, Phone : 704-338-5000, City : Charlotte ATLANTA (January 27) - 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) - 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) - 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) - 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) - 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 - 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) - 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 - 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=16 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=17 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=18 Address : 100 North Tryon StreetSuite 2400, Phone : 704-417-3000, City : Charlotte Monica Wilson Joins Nelson Mullins as Librarian Monica Wilson has joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP to serve as Manager of Library Services in the Firm's Columbia office. Ms. Wilson will manage all aspects of the Firm's multi-office law libraries including acquisitions, budgets, personnel, and legal research. Specifically, she will oversee the supervising and training of library staff, developing and implementing of library services throughout the Firm, provide research assistance, supervise electronic and print collection development, and provide excellent customer service in research and reference services. Ms. Wilson will also be responsible for implementing a new cataloguing program for the Library and a new information management program for the Firm. She will primarily work in the Firm's Columbia office; however she will frequently visit other Nelson Mullins offices as needed. Prior to joining Nelson Mullins Ms. Wilson served as a Reference Librarian, Library Director and Office Administrator at a law firm in Miami for 15 years. She brings to Nelson Mullins over 30 years of Library experience including 15 years of Research Law Library experience. She is a member of the American Law Libraries Association, Special Libraries Association and South Florida Law Libraries Association. Ms. Wilson earned a bachelors degree in Liberal Arts from the University of West Indies, a Master of Liberal Studies at Pratt Institute, and a Masters of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Nelson Mullins, established in 1897, has more than 360 attorneys practicing from offices in Atlanta, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Raleigh, Washington, D.C. and Winston-Salem. For more information on the Firm, go to www.nelsonmullins.com, or call (803) 255-9788 or (803) 255-9280. Nelson Mullins Expands Washington Office Nelson Mullins is adding four attorneys to its Washington, D.C. office-Timothy Fitzgibbon, Robert Hoegle, Thomas Bardo and Mary Diemer. "This group of attorneys brings significant litigation experience to our Firm. They also bring deep knowledge of the Federal administrative process, having represented clients before a wide range of agencies, including the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Trade Commission, and other regulatory agencies," said George Wolfe, managing partner in the Firm's Washington, D.C. office. "Their addition to the Washington office significantly enhances our ability to represent our clients in Washington." The Nelson Mullins Washington, D.C. office opened in 2004 to draw on the Firm's governmental experience and to provide federal government relations assistance to clients. Today the office has 11 attorneys and three policy advisors. "Our attorneys provide a unique service because we understand how government works and how it can impact our clients," Wolfe said. "Our team has worked in the Washington community and has developed a knowledge of the policies, processes and personnel involved that enables us to serve our clients well in their dealings with the federal government. Tim, Bob, Tom and Mary bring unique talents and relationships to Nelson Mullins. We welcome them to both the Firm and this office." 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=19 Address : P.O. Box 36469, Phone : 704-332-1181, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1199 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1199&page=20 Address : 301 McCullough DriveSuite 510, Phone : 704-307-4600, City : Charlotte http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2359