http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_va.php Judged Law Firm en-us (C) 2006 Judged. All rights reserved. contact@judged.com(Judged) contact@judged.com Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:36:32 -0500 Law Firms http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_va.php 60 http://www.judged.com/images/xml_rss_feed.gif http://www.judged.com/jdfirmrssfeed_va.php Address : 277 South Washington StreetSuite 500, Phone : 703-836-6400, City : Alexandria http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100114 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100114&page=1 Address : 225 Reinekers LaneSuite 290, Phone : 703-684-7550, City : Alexandria http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1844 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1844&page=2 Address : 1940 Duke Street, Phone : 703-413-3000, City : Alexandria There has been an important development at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Trial and Appeal Board ("TTAB"). On August 1, 2007, the TTAB published its long-awaited "Miscellaneous Changes to Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Rules", which amend the Trademark Rules of Practice before the TTAB (PDF copy attached). This package of rules follows the February 2006 proposed rules, which generated much concern and debate amongst trademark practitioners in the U.S. Oblon, Spivak was so concerned with the impact the February 2006 proposed rules would have on trademark owners that we created a blog, TTAB-Rules.com. The full discussion, including the comments by bar associations opposed to those proposed rules, can be found here: www.ttab-rules.com. This web site contains the original proposed rules, and much of the commentary and comments provided to the TTAB in opposition to the proposed rules. The final rules published on August 1, 2007 remove many, but not all, of the objectionable portions of the proposed rules. The final rules will generally be effective on November 1, 2007, although a few provisions will be effective starting on August 31, 2007. Pending oppositions and cancellation proceedings are affected by these rules, as well as matters filed after those dates. We are carefully studying the new rules, and will later provide our valued clients with our recommendations regarding the new rules. There has been an important development at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Trial and Appeal Board ("TTAB"). On August 1, 2007, the TTAB published its long-awaited "Miscellaneous Changes to Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Rules", which amend the Trademark Rules of Practice before the TTAB (PDF copy attached). This package of rules follows the February 2006 proposed rules, which generated much concern and debate amongst trademark practitioners in the U.S. Oblon, Spivak was so concerned with the impact the February 2006 proposed rules would have on trademark owners that we created a blog, TTAB-Rules.com. The full discussion, including the comments by bar associations opposed to those proposed rules, can be found here: www.ttab-rules.com. This web site contains the original proposed rules, and much of the commentary and comments provided to the TTAB in opposition to the proposed rules. The final rules published on August 1, 2007 remove many, but not all, of the objectionable portions of the proposed rules. The final rules will generally be effective on November 1, 2007, although a few provisions will be effective starting on August 31, 2007. Pending oppositions and cancellation proceedings are affected by these rules, as well as matters filed after those dates. We are carefully studying the new rules, and will later provide our valued clients with our recommendations regarding the new rules. Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C. is pleased to announce that the Firm has been ranked as a #1 law firm for intellectual property in Northern Virginia for the third consecutive year in Chambers USA 2007. Additionally, Arthur I. Neustadt and Charles L. Gholz again share a #1 ranking among leading intellectual property attorneys in the state. According to Chambers USA's profile about the firm and attorneys: "This Alexandria boutique is well known among peers. Interviewees comment on the 'large variability in the excellent abilities of its lawyers.'The firm acts for clients nationally and internationally in all areas of patent, trademark and copyright prosecution and litigation, and has a particularly strong interference practice." "According to peers, Charles Gholz is the 'premier IP lawyer for interference law in the country.' He focuses his practice on representing clients in patent interference matters both in and out of the courts." "The 'terrific and first-class' Arthur Neustadt is head of the litigation department. He represents clients in front of the Supreme, federal circuit and regional circuit courts in all national and international IP matters." "It is an honor to have our peers and other in-house counsel continue to recognize us as a leading intellectual property firm in Virginia," said Gregory J. Maier, the firm's managing partner. Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C. is pleased to announce that the Firm has been ranked as a #1 law firm for intellectual property in Northern Virginia for the third consecutive year in Chambers USA 2007. Additionally, Arthur I. Neustadt and Charles L. Gholz again share a #1 ranking among leading intellectual property attorneys in the state. According to Chambers USA's profile about the firm and attorneys: "This Alexandria boutique is well known among peers. Interviewees comment on the 'large variability in the excellent abilities of its lawyers.'The firm acts for clients nationally and internationally in all areas of patent, trademark and copyright prosecution and litigation, and has a particularly strong interference practice." "According to peers, Charles Gholz is the 'premier IP lawyer for interference law in the country.' He focuses his practice on representing clients in patent interference matters both in and out of the courts." "The 'terrific and first-class' Arthur Neustadt is head of the litigation department. He represents clients in front of the Supreme, federal circuit and regional circuit courts in all national and international IP matters." "It is an honor to have our peers and other in-house counsel continue to recognize us as a leading intellectual property firm in Virginia," said Gregory J. Maier, the firm's managing partner. The U.S. Court Of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) has affirmed the Massachusetts district court's judgment in favor of SMC Corp. of lack of infringement of Festo Corporation's U.S. Patent No. 4,354,125. The July 5, 2007 ruling determined that prosecution history estoppel applied because Festo failed to rebut the Supreme Court's presumption that SMC's accused equivalent was foreseeable. This nearly 20-year long landmark patent infringement dispute between SMC and Festo included two Supreme Court and five Federal Circuit decisions, two of which were en banc. "SMC is, of course, pleased with this decision" said Arthur I. Neustadt, a name partner at Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C., and the lead counsel for SMC who successfully argued this case before the Supreme Court and the Federal Circuit. The CAFC ruling, which includes a history of this case, is available upon request. The U.S. Court Of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) has affirmed the Massachusetts district court's judgment in favor of SMC Corp. of lack of infringement of Festo Corporation's U.S. Patent No. 4,354,125. The July 5, 2007 ruling determined that prosecution history estoppel applied because Festo failed to rebut the Supreme Court's presumption that SMC's accused equivalent was foreseeable. This nearly 20-year long landmark patent infringement dispute between SMC and Festo included two Supreme Court and five Federal Circuit decisions, two of which were en banc. "SMC is, of course, pleased with this decision" said Arthur I. Neustadt, a name partner at Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C., and the lead counsel for SMC who successfully argued this case before the Supreme Court and the Federal Circuit. The CAFC ruling, which includes a history of this case, is available upon request. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1779 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1779&page=3 Address : 1737 King StreetSuite 500, Phone : 703-836-6620, City : Alexandria Real Estate attorney Cheryl A. Santaniello was elected to serve a two-year term on the Board of Directors of the Dress for Success Delaware. She will also serve as secretary of the board for a one-year term. Dress for Success is a nonprofit organization that helps economically disadvantaged women acquire jobs, retain their new positions and succeed in the workplace. Each Dress for Success client receives one suit when she has a job interview, as well as a week\'s worth of career separates when she gets the job. The Dress for Success Professional Women\'s Group program then provides ongoing support to help the client build a successful career. About Santaniello Cheryl A. Santaniello is an associate in the Philadelphia office of Buchanan Ingersoll PC and is a member of the firm\'s Financial Institutions and Real Estate Group. Her practice incorporates a range of finance and real estate transactions, representing lenders and borrowers in mortgage loan transactions involving acquisition and construction financings, permanent financings and revolving credit facilities. Santaniello has also represented clients in more traditional real estate transactions, including advising clients in the acquisition and sale of real estate, and drafting and negotiating complex commercial leases. Real Estate attorney Cheryl A. Santaniello was elected to serve a two-year term on the Board of Directors of the Dress for Success Delaware. She will also serve as secretary of the board for a one-year term. Dress for Success is a nonprofit organization that helps economically disadvantaged women acquire jobs, retain their new positions and succeed in the workplace. Each Dress for Success client receives one suit when she has a job interview, as well as a week\'s worth of career separates when she gets the job. The Dress for Success Professional Women\'s Group program then provides ongoing support to help the client build a successful career. About Santaniello Cheryl A. Santaniello is an associate in the Philadelphia office of Buchanan Ingersoll PC and is a member of the firm\'s Financial Institutions and Real Estate Group. Her practice incorporates a range of finance and real estate transactions, representing lenders and borrowers in mortgage loan transactions involving acquisition and construction financings, permanent financings and revolving credit facilities. Santaniello has also represented clients in more traditional real estate transactions, including advising clients in the acquisition and sale of real estate, and drafting and negotiating complex commercial leases. Buchanan Ingersoll\'s Corporate Finance & Technology Group has announced the addition of William A. Reavey, special counsel, in the firm\'s San Diego office. Reavey\'s practice is focused on international business transactions, cross-border investment in Mexico, structuring international joint ventures, real estate development, construction, leasing and finance. His experience includes representing buyers and sellers in M&A transactions involving private companies; negotiating IT outsourcing contracts; representing a private, nonprofit university; and advising corporate clients on contract disputes, leasing and handling hazardous materials. San Diego\'s rapid development over the past 20 years has resulted in Reavey\'s real estate practice being focused on the representation of developers and users of commercial real estate. The recent boom in Mexico resort development has led to his representing U.S. developers in the acquisition of large tracts of land throughout Baja California for development of resort communities. Over the years, Reavey has also gained experience in matters involving compliance with RESPA by real estate brokers, title insurance companies and other settlement service providers. About Reavey Reavey has represented Native American tribes on non-gaming matters including casino construction contracts, leasing, executive employment agreements, waivers of tribal sovereign immunity and casino management agreements. After serving on active duty in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1973, Reavey remained in the Reserves until his retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 1992. He is a member of the American, California and San Diego County Bar Associations, as well as the Board of Trustees of the Anza-Borrego Foundation. Reavey received his J.D. degree from Yale University in 1976, where he also earned an M.A., degree in international relations in 1968. He earned a B.S. degree in international affairs from the United States Air Force Academy, graduating in 1966 as a distinguished graduate. About the Firm Buchanan Ingersoll PC is one of the largest law firms in the nation, and has more than 415 attorneys and government relations professionals practicing throughout the United States, with offices in San Diego, Silicon Valley, Washington, D.C., Alexandria, New York, Buffalo, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Miami, Aventura, Tampa, Wilmington, Princeton and Cleveland. The firm has undergone a series of acquisitions and additions during the last year, including: government relations boutique Hill Solutions; a group of nine litigators from Saul Ewing; the 55 attorneys and patent professionals of Burns, Doane, Swecker & Mathis; a team of IP and business litigators in San Diego; a group of three government relations professionals in Washington, D.C.; a group of seven high-profile tax and immigration lawyers in Miami; and the litigation boutique of Slotnick, Shapiro & Crocker in New York. Buchanan Ingersoll\'s attorneys have experience in industries that include entertainment and media, pharmaceuticals and biomedicine, nanotechnology, financial institutions, construction, franchise and real estate. Within these and other industries, Buchanan Ingersoll attorneys focus on more than 65 practice areas including Corporate Finance, Litigation, Intellectual Property, Tax, Government Relations, Health Care and Labor & Employment. The firm serves national and international clients that include Fortune 500 corporations, start-ups, technology companies and financial institutions. Buchanan Ingersoll\'s Corporate Finance & Technology Group has announced the addition of William A. Reavey, special counsel, in the firm\'s San Diego office. Reavey\'s practice is focused on international business transactions, cross-border investment in Mexico, structuring international joint ventures, real estate development, construction, leasing and finance. His experience includes representing buyers and sellers in M&A transactions involving private companies; negotiating IT outsourcing contracts; representing a private, nonprofit university; and advising corporate clients on contract disputes, leasing and handling hazardous materials. San Diego\'s rapid development over the past 20 years has resulted in Reavey\'s real estate practice being focused on the representation of developers and users of commercial real estate. The recent boom in Mexico resort development has led to his representing U.S. developers in the acquisition of large tracts of land throughout Baja California for development of resort communities. Over the years, Reavey has also gained experience in matters involving compliance with RESPA by real estate brokers, title insurance companies and other settlement service providers. About Reavey Reavey has represented Native American tribes on non-gaming matters including casino construction contracts, leasing, executive employment agreements, waivers of tribal sovereign immunity and casino management agreements. After serving on active duty in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1973, Reavey remained in the Reserves until his retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 1992. He is a member of the American, California and San Diego County Bar Associations, as well as the Board of Trustees of the Anza-Borrego Foundation. Reavey received his J.D. degree from Yale University in 1976, where he also earned an M.A., degree in international relations in 1968. He earned a B.S. degree in international affairs from the United States Air Force Academy, graduating in 1966 as a distinguished graduate. About the Firm Buchanan Ingersoll PC is one of the largest law firms in the nation, and has more than 415 attorneys and government relations professionals practicing throughout the United States, with offices in San Diego, Silicon Valley, Washington, D.C., Alexandria, New York, Buffalo, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Miami, Aventura, Tampa, Wilmington, Princeton and Cleveland. The firm has undergone a series of acquisitions and additions during the last year, including: government relations boutique Hill Solutions; a group of nine litigators from Saul Ewing; the 55 attorneys and patent professionals of Burns, Doane, Swecker & Mathis; a team of IP and business litigators in San Diego; a group of three government relations professionals in Washington, D.C.; a group of seven high-profile tax and immigration lawyers in Miami; and the litigation boutique of Slotnick, Shapiro & Crocker in New York. Buchanan Ingersoll\'s attorneys have experience in industries that include entertainment and media, pharmaceuticals and biomedicine, nanotechnology, financial institutions, construction, franchise and real estate. Within these and other industries, Buchanan Ingersoll attorneys focus on more than 65 practice areas including Corporate Finance, Litigation, Intellectual Property, Tax, Government Relations, Health Care and Labor & Employment. The firm serves national and international clients that include Fortune 500 corporations, start-ups, technology companies and financial institutions. Insurance and Reinsurance attorney H. Marc Tepper was recently named to serve on the Board of Directors of the Central Atlantic Region America-Israel Chamber of Commerce (AICC). Tepper is a shareholder in the Philadelphia office of Buchanan Ingersoll. The AICC is the only organization in the Greater Philadelphia region devoted exclusively to promoting business development with Israel. The Central Atlantic Region serves Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey and Delaware. Insurance and Reinsurance attorney H. Marc Tepper was recently named to serve on the Board of Directors of the Central Atlantic Region America-Israel Chamber of Commerce (AICC). Tepper is a shareholder in the Philadelphia office of Buchanan Ingersoll. The AICC is the only organization in the Greater Philadelphia region devoted exclusively to promoting business development with Israel. The Central Atlantic Region serves Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey and Delaware. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=329 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=329&page=4 Address : 1100 North Glebe Road8th Floor, Phone : 703-816-4000, City : Arlington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1764 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1764&page=5 Address : 2001 Jefferson Davis HighwaySuite 208, Phone : 703-415-0303, City : Arlington The Associates Committee at Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., has established a volunteer program to help feed the homeless. Organized by attorney, Robert D. Summers, Jr., volunteers will offer their assistance at The Franciscan Outreach Association's Marquard Center, located at 1645 W. LeMoyne Street in Chicago, which is open 365 days of the year. On the second Friday of every month, three Brinks employees will have the opportunity to greet and interact with homeless guests at the shelter, serve dinners, bus tables and provide clean-up services afterwards. The Franciscan Outreach Association works to provide for basic human needs, such as food, shelter, encouragement and assistance in creating a better life for those who are homeless, marginalized and often underserved. The Associates Committee at Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., has established a volunteer program to help feed the homeless. Organized by attorney, Robert D. Summers, Jr., volunteers will offer their assistance at The Franciscan Outreach Association's Marquard Center, located at 1645 W. LeMoyne Street in Chicago, which is open 365 days of the year. On the second Friday of every month, three Brinks employees will have the opportunity to greet and interact with homeless guests at the shelter, serve dinners, bus tables and provide clean-up services afterwards. The Franciscan Outreach Association works to provide for basic human needs, such as food, shelter, encouragement and assistance in creating a better life for those who are homeless, marginalized and often underserved. Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., is pleased to announce that 18 new associates have joined the firm. The new associates are: Andrew J. Avsec holds a J.D. from The George Washington University Law School and a B.A. in an independent concentration in bioethics from Princeton University. Mr. Avsec worked as a summer associate with the firm last summer and will focus his practice on trademark law. Jacob C. Bachman, a past summer associate at the firm, holds a J.D. from The John Marshall Law School and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois. Katie M. Blakley worked at Brinks as a law clerk before receiving her law degree. She earned a J.D. from Wayne State University Law School and a B.S. in engineering mechanics from Michigan State University. Ms. Blakley will be based in Brinks' Ann Arbor office. Thomas C. Burton has a J.D. from the University of Illinois College of Law and a B.S. in mechanical engineering, with a minor in Japanese, from the University of Utah. Mr. Burton was a summer associate with the firm last summer. Igor V. Dubinsky, a past summer associate, earned his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law, cum laude, and holds a Certificate in Intellectual Property from the Center for Intellectual Property Law and Technology. Mr. Dubinsky earned his B.A. from Northwestern University, where he triple-majored in integrated science, advanced physics and molecular/genetic biology and minored in business institutions. Benjamin Findley holds a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School, an M.S. in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a B.S. in civil engineering from Tufts University College of Engineering in Medford, Massachusetts. Mr. Findley was a summer associate with the firm last summer. Joshua S. Frick earned his J.D. from Washington University School of Law and holds a B.S. in marketing and legal studies from Indiana University, Bloomington. Mr. Frick worked at the firm last summer as a summer associate and will focus his practice on trademark law. Joseph S. Hanasz earned his J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law and holds a B.S. in electrical engineering from The University of Iowa. Mr. Hanasz spent last summer as a summer associate with the firm. Brandon C. Helms, a past summer associate with the firm, holds a J.D. from the DePaul University College of Law and has a B.S. in chemistry from Carthage College, Kenosha, Wisconsin. Karl Horlander received his J.D. from Indiana University School of Law in Indianapolis. He also holds an M.S. in electrical and computer engineering from Purdue University and a B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Kentucky. Mr. Horlander worked as a law clerk at the firm during his last year of law school and will work in the firm's Indianapolis office. Michael Hussey holds a J.D. from Indiana University School of Law in Indianapolis as well as a B.S. in electrical engineering and a B.A. in German from Purdue University, Indianapolis. Mr. Hussey will be based in Brinks' Indianapolis office. Bryan J. Leitenberger earned his J.D. from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill and received a B.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Notre Dame. Mr. Leitenberger worked at the firm last summer as a summer associate. Edward Machado earned his J.D. at Chicago-Kent College of Law and has both a B.S. and an M.S. in electrical engineering from The University of Illinois at Chicago. Luke A. Parsons holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University. Mr. Parsons is a former summer associate with the firm. Kevin Patariu earned his J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law and holds a B.S. and M.Eng. in electrical engineering from Cornell University. Mr. Patariu worked as a summer associate last summer at the firm. Megha Patel, a past summer associate at the firm, earned her J.D. at Indiana University, Bloomington School of Law. She holds a Ph.D. in molecular biology and genetics from the University of California, Los Angeles and a B.S. in biological sciences from University of California, Irvine. M. Daniel Spillman, a past summer associate at the firm, received his J.D. from the University of Dayton School of Law and his B.S. in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. Mr. Spillman will work out of the firm's Indianapolis office. Christopher Sukhaphadhana holds a J.D. from University of Virginia School of Law in Charlottesville and a B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois. Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., is pleased to announce that 18 new associates have joined the firm. The new associates are: Andrew J. Avsec holds a J.D. from The George Washington University Law School and a B.A. in an independent concentration in bioethics from Princeton University. Mr. Avsec worked as a summer associate with the firm last summer and will focus his practice on trademark law. Jacob C. Bachman, a past summer associate at the firm, holds a J.D. from The John Marshall Law School and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois. Katie M. Blakley worked at Brinks as a law clerk before receiving her law degree. She earned a J.D. from Wayne State University Law School and a B.S. in engineering mechanics from Michigan State University. Ms. Blakley will be based in Brinks' Ann Arbor office. Thomas C. Burton has a J.D. from the University of Illinois College of Law and a B.S. in mechanical engineering, with a minor in Japanese, from the University of Utah. Mr. Burton was a summer associate with the firm last summer. Igor V. Dubinsky, a past summer associate, earned his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law, cum laude, and holds a Certificate in Intellectual Property from the Center for Intellectual Property Law and Technology. Mr. Dubinsky earned his B.A. from Northwestern University, where he triple-majored in integrated science, advanced physics and molecular/genetic biology and minored in business institutions. Benjamin Findley holds a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School, an M.S. in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a B.S. in civil engineering from Tufts University College of Engineering in Medford, Massachusetts. Mr. Findley was a summer associate with the firm last summer. Joshua S. Frick earned his J.D. from Washington University School of Law and holds a B.S. in marketing and legal studies from Indiana University, Bloomington. Mr. Frick worked at the firm last summer as a summer associate and will focus his practice on trademark law. Joseph S. Hanasz earned his J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law and holds a B.S. in electrical engineering from The University of Iowa. Mr. Hanasz spent last summer as a summer associate with the firm. Brandon C. Helms, a past summer associate with the firm, holds a J.D. from the DePaul University College of Law and has a B.S. in chemistry from Carthage College, Kenosha, Wisconsin. Karl Horlander received his J.D. from Indiana University School of Law in Indianapolis. He also holds an M.S. in electrical and computer engineering from Purdue University and a B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Kentucky. Mr. Horlander worked as a law clerk at the firm during his last year of law school and will work in the firm's Indianapolis office. Michael Hussey holds a J.D. from Indiana University School of Law in Indianapolis as well as a B.S. in electrical engineering and a B.A. in German from Purdue University, Indianapolis. Mr. Hussey will be based in Brinks' Indianapolis office. Bryan J. Leitenberger earned his J.D. from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill and received a B.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Notre Dame. Mr. Leitenberger worked at the firm last summer as a summer associate. Edward Machado earned his J.D. at Chicago-Kent College of Law and has both a B.S. and an M.S. in electrical engineering from The University of Illinois at Chicago. Luke A. Parsons holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University. Mr. Parsons is a former summer associate with the firm. Kevin Patariu earned his J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law and holds a B.S. and M.Eng. in electrical engineering from Cornell University. Mr. Patariu worked as a summer associate last summer at the firm. Megha Patel, a past summer associate at the firm, earned her J.D. at Indiana University, Bloomington School of Law. She holds a Ph.D. in molecular biology and genetics from the University of California, Los Angeles and a B.S. in biological sciences from University of California, Irvine. M. Daniel Spillman, a past summer associate at the firm, received his J.D. from the University of Dayton School of Law and his B.S. in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. Mr. Spillman will work out of the firm's Indianapolis office. Christopher Sukhaphadhana holds a J.D. from University of Virginia School of Law in Charlottesville and a B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) published its much anticipated new rules regarding continuing application practice and limitations on the number of claims presented for examination. The new rules are allegedly being adopted to reduce the number of continuing applications so that the USPTO may eliminate the present back-log of new patent applications waiting to be examined. The new rules are also being adopted to ease the examination process for examiners by having applicants provide more focus and clarity regarding their inventions. The new rules go into full effect on November 1, 2007. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) published its much anticipated new rules regarding continuing application practice and limitations on the number of claims presented for examination. The new rules are allegedly being adopted to reduce the number of continuing applications so that the USPTO may eliminate the present back-log of new patent applications waiting to be examined. The new rules are also being adopted to ease the examination process for examiners by having applicants provide more focus and clarity regarding their inventions. The new rules go into full effect on November 1, 2007. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=274 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=274&page=6 Address : 2000 North 14th StreetSuite 100, Phone : 703-525-4000, City : Arlington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=140 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=140&page=7 Address : 2200 Clarendon Boulevard13th Floor, Phone : 703-528-4700, City : Arlington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2458 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2458&page=8 Address : 2300 Clarendon BoulevardSuite 306, Phone : 703-522-7500, City : Arlington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100080 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100080&page=9 Address : 1300 North 17th Street11th Floor, Phone : 703-812-0400, City : Arlington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=771 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=771&page=10 Address : 3717 Columbia Pike, Phone : 703-486-1000, City : Arlington http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2357 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2357&page=11 Address : 712 North Main StreetSuite 201, Phone : 540-552-3390, City : Blacksburg http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2154 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2154&page=12 Address : 301 East Market Street, Phone : 434-220-9310, City : Charlottesville Hudson Cook LLP, a nationwide provider of legal compliance services for the financial services industry, announced the addition of Rene Ramirez as a partner at the firm's Los Angeles area office. In his new capacity, Ramirez will focus his practice on consumer financial services matters, principally on automotive dealership and financial institutions compliance issues at both the state and federal level. Prior to joining Hudson Cook, Ramirez held senior positions at Ford Motor Credit Co. as director of legal affairs for Latin America and vice president, legal for Primus Automotive Financial Services. Hudson Cook LLP, a nationwide provider of legal compliance services for the financial services industry, announced the addition of Rene Ramirez as a partner at the firm's Los Angeles area office. In his new capacity, Ramirez will focus his practice on consumer financial services matters, principally on automotive dealership and financial institutions compliance issues at both the state and federal level. Prior to joining Hudson Cook, Ramirez held senior positions at Ford Motor Credit Co. as director of legal affairs for Latin America and vice president, legal for Primus Automotive Financial Services. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1132 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1132&page=13 Address : P.O. Box 298, Phone : 434-951-7200, City : Charlottesville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1642 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1642&page=14 Address : 133 Mount Pleseant Road, Phone : 757-482-570, City : Chesapeake http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100113 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=100113&page=15 Address : 7255 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Phone : 804-746-4900, City : Mechanicsville http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=27 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=27&page=50 Address : 9850 Lori RoadSuite 101, Phone : 804-778-7265, City : Chesterfield http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1133 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1133&page=17 Address : 212 East Market Street, Phone : 703-737-0200, City : Leesburg Randolph A. Sutliff, Daniel P. Lyon and Lawrence J. McClafferty from the Leesburg office of McCandlish & Lillard have been recognized by Virginia Business Magazine as being among Virginia's "Legal Elite." They are among nine attorneys from the firm to be awarded this year's distinction. All three were named to the list last year as well. Virginia Business determines the "Legal Elite" designation from a survey conducted with the Virginia Bar Association, which polls thousands of Virginia lawyers to determine whom they consider the very best in certain defined practice categories. The seventh edition of the list is published in the magazine's December edition. Randolph A. Sutliff, a principal and President of McCandlish & Lillard, was named among the best in the category of Business Law. He began the general practice of law in Fairfax in 1973. Over time, he has concentrated on business law, with an emphasis on corporate and real estate matters. Currently, he divides his practice between the firm's Fairfax and Leesburg offices. Mr. Sutliff has served as General Counsel for the National Capital Area Council Boy Scouts of America and currently is the President of the Dulles Area Transportation Alliance and General Counsel for the Claude Moore Foundation. Mr. Sutliff also was named as one of the Washington, D.C.'s Super Lawyers for 2006. Daniel P. Lyon, a principal and member of the Firm's Executive Committee, was named among the best in the category of Labor and Employment Law. Mr. Lyon has been recognized among Virginia Business' Legal Elite in three of the past four years. He has significant experience litigating commercial issues on behalf of businesses and individuals at the trial and appellate level in both state and federal courts. Mr. Lyon divides his practice between the firm's Fairfax and Leesburg offices. He recently completed his second term as Chairman of the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce and has been named as its Legal Counsel for 2007. Mr. Lyon also was named by Smart CEO Magazine as one of the Greater Washington Legal Elite for 2006 in Employment Labor Law/Commercial Litigation. Lawrence J. McClafferty, a principal in the Firm's Leesburg Office, was named among the best in the category of "Young Lawyer." Mr. McClafferty, who is President-Elect of the Loudoun County Bar Association, concentrates his practice in the area of civil litigation, particularly with respect to business torts, commercial disputes and community associations. He also devotes a significant portion of his practice to guardianships, conservatorships and other elder law issues. Randolph A. Sutliff, Daniel P. Lyon and Lawrence J. McClafferty from the Leesburg office of McCandlish & Lillard have been recognized by Virginia Business Magazine as being among Virginia's "Legal Elite." They are among nine attorneys from the firm to be awarded this year's distinction. All three were named to the list last year as well. Virginia Business determines the "Legal Elite" designation from a survey conducted with the Virginia Bar Association, which polls thousands of Virginia lawyers to determine whom they consider the very best in certain defined practice categories. The seventh edition of the list is published in the magazine's December edition. Randolph A. Sutliff, a principal and President of McCandlish & Lillard, was named among the best in the category of Business Law. He began the general practice of law in Fairfax in 1973. Over time, he has concentrated on business law, with an emphasis on corporate and real estate matters. Currently, he divides his practice between the firm's Fairfax and Leesburg offices. Mr. Sutliff has served as General Counsel for the National Capital Area Council Boy Scouts of America and currently is the President of the Dulles Area Transportation Alliance and General Counsel for the Claude Moore Foundation. Mr. Sutliff also was named as one of the Washington, D.C.'s Super Lawyers for 2006. Daniel P. Lyon, a principal and member of the Firm's Executive Committee, was named among the best in the category of Labor and Employment Law. Mr. Lyon has been recognized among Virginia Business' Legal Elite in three of the past four years. He has significant experience litigating commercial issues on behalf of businesses and individuals at the trial and appellate level in both state and federal courts. Mr. Lyon divides his practice between the firm's Fairfax and Leesburg offices. He recently completed his second term as Chairman of the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce and has been named as its Legal Counsel for 2007. Mr. Lyon also was named by Smart CEO Magazine as one of the Greater Washington Legal Elite for 2006 in Employment Labor Law/Commercial Litigation. Lawrence J. McClafferty, a principal in the Firm's Leesburg Office, was named among the best in the category of "Young Lawyer." Mr. McClafferty, who is President-Elect of the Loudoun County Bar Association, concentrates his practice in the area of civil litigation, particularly with respect to business torts, commercial disputes and community associations. He also devotes a significant portion of his practice to guardianships, conservatorships and other elder law issues. Peter A. Arntson, a principal and Senior Counsel of the law firm of McCandlish & Lillard, was named among the Greater Washington Legal Elite by Washington Smart CEO Magazine. He was recognized in the category of Trusts and Estates. Washington Smart CEO listed 60 lawyers, who were chosen by nominations from their peers, CEOs, industry experts and clients. The list was published in the magazine's August 2006 issue. Mr. Arntson's practice is devoted primarily to estate planning and administration with a particular emphasis on the taxation of trusts and estates. His practice also includes forming and advising partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies, closely held businesses, private foundations and public charitable organizations. Mr. Arntson has given numerous Continuing Legal Education programs for the Virginia State Bar and other organizations and has served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Tax Section of the Virginia State Bar. He has also published law review articles on the Virginia Land Trust and on Individual Retirement Accounts. Mr. Arntson serves, and has served, on the boards of numerous charitable and nonprofit organizations. Peter A. Arntson, a principal and Senior Counsel of the law firm of McCandlish & Lillard, was named among the Greater Washington Legal Elite by Washington Smart CEO Magazine. He was recognized in the category of Trusts and Estates. Washington Smart CEO listed 60 lawyers, who were chosen by nominations from their peers, CEOs, industry experts and clients. The list was published in the magazine's August 2006 issue. Mr. Arntson's practice is devoted primarily to estate planning and administration with a particular emphasis on the taxation of trusts and estates. His practice also includes forming and advising partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies, closely held businesses, private foundations and public charitable organizations. Mr. Arntson has given numerous Continuing Legal Education programs for the Virginia State Bar and other organizations and has served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Tax Section of the Virginia State Bar. He has also published law review articles on the Virginia Land Trust and on Individual Retirement Accounts. Mr. Arntson serves, and has served, on the boards of numerous charitable and nonprofit organizations. Gary W. Brown, a principal and Chairman of the Board of the law firm of McCandlish & Lillard, was named among the Greater Washington Legal Elite by Washington Smart CEO Magazine. He was recognized in the category of Medical Malpractice Law. Washington Smart CEO listed 60 lawyers, who were chosen by nominations from their peers, CEOs, industry experts and clients. The list was published in the magazine's August 2006 issue. Mr. Brown's practice is devoted primarily to medical malpractice, legal malpractice, product liability and employment discrimination. He is a trained and experienced arbitrator and mediator. He is admitted to the Bars of the District of Columbia, Virginia and Oklahoma. He is also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, the United States Courts of Appeals for the District of Columbia and Fourth Circuits; the United States District Courts for the District of Columbia, Eastern District of Virginia, and District of Maryland; the United States Court of Federal Claims; and the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. Gary W. Brown, a principal and Chairman of the Board of the law firm of McCandlish & Lillard, was named among the Greater Washington Legal Elite by Washington Smart CEO Magazine. He was recognized in the category of Medical Malpractice Law. Washington Smart CEO listed 60 lawyers, who were chosen by nominations from their peers, CEOs, industry experts and clients. The list was published in the magazine's August 2006 issue. Mr. Brown's practice is devoted primarily to medical malpractice, legal malpractice, product liability and employment discrimination. He is a trained and experienced arbitrator and mediator. He is admitted to the Bars of the District of Columbia, Virginia and Oklahoma. He is also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, the United States Courts of Appeals for the District of Columbia and Fourth Circuits; the United States District Courts for the District of Columbia, Eastern District of Virginia, and District of Maryland; the United States Court of Federal Claims; and the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1566 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1566&page=33 Address : 10201 Lee HighwaySuite 210, Phone : 703-934-6377, City : Fairfax http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1423 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1423&page=19 Address : 4084 University DriveSuite 204-A, Phone : 703-218-5330, City : Fairfax http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1383 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1383&page=20 Address : 9302 Lee HighwaySuite 1100, Phone : 703-218-2100, City : Fairfax Odin, Feldman & Pittleman attorney Misti Mukherjee will speak on "Recent Trends in HR Law" at the Sept. 19 meeting for the Dulles Society of Human Resource Management. The meeting will be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Reston, Va. Doors will open at 5:15 p.m. with the program starting at 7 p.m. Mukherjee, co-chair of the firm's Labor & Employment group, is a human resources community leader and frequent speaker on employment law issues. Her practice is management-oriented, and she counsels and trains businesses, non-profit organizations and trade associations to anticipate and avoid labor and employment problems. Odin, Feldman & Pittleman attorney Misti Mukherjee will speak on "Recent Trends in HR Law" at the Sept. 19 meeting for the Dulles Society of Human Resource Management. The meeting will be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Reston, Va. Doors will open at 5:15 p.m. with the program starting at 7 p.m. Mukherjee, co-chair of the firm's Labor & Employment group, is a human resources community leader and frequent speaker on employment law issues. Her practice is management-oriented, and she counsels and trains businesses, non-profit organizations and trade associations to anticipate and avoid labor and employment problems. Misti Mukherjee and Timothy McEvoy, principals with law firm Odin, Feldman & Pittleman, will speak at the 2007 Virginia Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) conference in October. The Virginia State SHRM Conference offers world-renowned keynote speakers, an extensive schedule of professional development and educational sessions, and networking opportunities. Mukherjee and McEvoy will present their session, Conducting Investigations and Detecting Deception, on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 10:45 a.m. The conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport. Mukherjee, co-chair of the firm's Labor & Employment group, is a human resources community leader and frequent speaker on employment law issues. Her practice is management-oriented, and she counsels and trains businesses, non-profit organizations and trade associations to anticipate and avoid labor and employment problems. McEvoy, a member of the firm's Litigation practice group, represents clients in many types of complex matters including employment law compliance and litigation. SHRM works to develop strategic human resources leaders through networking, mentoring, and civic and educational programs. Misti Mukherjee and Timothy McEvoy, principals with law firm Odin, Feldman & Pittleman, will speak at the 2007 Virginia Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) conference in October. The Virginia State SHRM Conference offers world-renowned keynote speakers, an extensive schedule of professional development and educational sessions, and networking opportunities. Mukherjee and McEvoy will present their session, Conducting Investigations and Detecting Deception, on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 10:45 a.m. The conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport. Mukherjee, co-chair of the firm's Labor & Employment group, is a human resources community leader and frequent speaker on employment law issues. Her practice is management-oriented, and she counsels and trains businesses, non-profit organizations and trade associations to anticipate and avoid labor and employment problems. McEvoy, a member of the firm's Litigation practice group, represents clients in many types of complex matters including employment law compliance and litigation. SHRM works to develop strategic human resources leaders through networking, mentoring, and civic and educational programs. The Washington Business Journal named Odin, Feldman & Pittleman one of the region's Best Places to Work at their breakfast awards program on June 7 at the Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner, Va. More than 300 companies applied for the award which was given to the Washington region's top 50 companies. OFP was one of only 10 midsize companies recognized at the event. The top companies were also profiled in the June 8th edition of the Washington Business Journal. The award recognizes companies with outstanding working relationships, benefits and culture. OFP was also named a Best Place to Work in 2005. The Washington Business Journal named Odin, Feldman & Pittleman one of the region's Best Places to Work at their breakfast awards program on June 7 at the Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner, Va. More than 300 companies applied for the award which was given to the Washington region's top 50 companies. OFP was one of only 10 midsize companies recognized at the event. The top companies were also profiled in the June 8th edition of the Washington Business Journal. The award recognizes companies with outstanding working relationships, benefits and culture. OFP was also named a Best Place to Work in 2005. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1786 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1786&page=21 Address : 10509 Judicial DriveSuite 200, Phone : 703-246-0900, City : Fairfax http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2351 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2351&page=22 Address : 4020 University DriveSuite 300, Phone : 703-691-1235, City : Fairfax http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=206 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=206&page=23 Address : 10511 Judicial Drive, Phone : 703-691-0500, City : Fairfax http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=226 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=226&page=24 Address : 4112 Innslake Drive, Phone : 804-967-9604, City : Glen Allen In a two-day jury trial where the plaintiff alleged right ankle injuries resulting from a fall from a physical therapy trampoline, Sean P. Byrne, Esq. and Daniel M. Kincheloe, Esq. convinced the trial judge to grant a Motion to Strike and dismiss the case. While the plaintiff was jumping on a mini-trampoline as part of her physical therapy regimen, the trampoline gave way and the plaintiff fell. The plaintiff alleged that the trampoline was defective due to improper inspection and maintenance and that the defect caused her fall. She further alleged that as a result of the fall, she sustained severe right foot and ankle problems that necessitated significant medical treatment and eventual surgery. Prior to trial, Mr. Byrne and Mr. Kincheloe prevented the plaintiff from increasing her damages sought from $50,000 to $300,000 on a Motion to Amend filed six weeks before trial. At trial, counsel successfully argued that the plaintiff's liability and causation experts were not properly designated or qualified to offer opinions at trial and their testimony was excluded. At the close of the plaintiff's evidence, Mr. Byrne and Mr. Kincheloe persuaded the trial judge that the plaintiff had failed to present evidence that the trampoline was defective or that the defendant had knowledge of any alleged defect. The trial judge granted the Motion to Strike and dismissed the case before it was given to the jury for decision. In a two-day jury trial where the plaintiff alleged right ankle injuries resulting from a fall from a physical therapy trampoline, Sean P. Byrne, Esq. and Daniel M. Kincheloe, Esq. convinced the trial judge to grant a Motion to Strike and dismiss the case. While the plaintiff was jumping on a mini-trampoline as part of her physical therapy regimen, the trampoline gave way and the plaintiff fell. The plaintiff alleged that the trampoline was defective due to improper inspection and maintenance and that the defect caused her fall. She further alleged that as a result of the fall, she sustained severe right foot and ankle problems that necessitated significant medical treatment and eventual surgery. Prior to trial, Mr. Byrne and Mr. Kincheloe prevented the plaintiff from increasing her damages sought from $50,000 to $300,000 on a Motion to Amend filed six weeks before trial. At trial, counsel successfully argued that the plaintiff's liability and causation experts were not properly designated or qualified to offer opinions at trial and their testimony was excluded. At the close of the plaintiff's evidence, Mr. Byrne and Mr. Kincheloe persuaded the trial judge that the plaintiff had failed to present evidence that the trampoline was defective or that the defendant had knowledge of any alleged defect. The trial judge granted the Motion to Strike and dismissed the case before it was given to the jury for decision. After a two week jury trial held in the Circuit Court for Berkeley County, West Virginia, Michael E. Olszewski, Esq. obtained a defense verdict for his client, a general surgeon. The defendant surgeon performed an open cholecystectomy. After the cholecystectomy, the patient was restarted on blood thinners for his prosthetic heart valve. The patient hemorrhaged day 5 post-op and died the following day. Plaintiff's counsel alleged the defendant surgeon failed to perform surgery in order to stop the internal bleeding and to treat the patient's abdominal compression syndrome. Mr. Olszewski established that the bleeding was caused by a toxic level of Refludan, a dangerous blood thinner, which could not be reversed due to kidney failure. Mr. Olszewski further established that surgery would not have helped the patient whatsoever. The jury agreed and returned a verdict in favor of the surgeon. After a two week jury trial held in the Circuit Court for Berkeley County, West Virginia, Michael E. Olszewski, Esq. obtained a defense verdict for his client, a general surgeon. The defendant surgeon performed an open cholecystectomy. After the cholecystectomy, the patient was restarted on blood thinners for his prosthetic heart valve. The patient hemorrhaged day 5 post-op and died the following day. Plaintiff's counsel alleged the defendant surgeon failed to perform surgery in order to stop the internal bleeding and to treat the patient's abdominal compression syndrome. Mr. Olszewski established that the bleeding was caused by a toxic level of Refludan, a dangerous blood thinner, which could not be reversed due to kidney failure. Mr. Olszewski further established that surgery would not have helped the patient whatsoever. The jury agreed and returned a verdict in favor of the surgeon. We are honored to have 4 attorneys recognized by their peers as "Virginia's Legal Elite for 2006". Congratulations to Thomas F. Hancock III, James M. Daniel, Jr., Richard L. Nagle and Kimberly W. Daniel for being named to this prestigious group. We are honored to have 4 attorneys recognized by their peers as "Virginia's Legal Elite for 2006". Congratulations to Thomas F. Hancock III, James M. Daniel, Jr., Richard L. Nagle and Kimberly W. Daniel for being named to this prestigious group. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=997 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=997&page=31 Address : 5661 Columbia PikeSuite 200, Phone : 703-671-5800, City : Falls Church http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=731 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=731&page=26 Address : 3110 Fairview Park DriveSuite 1400, Phone : 703-641-4200, City : Falls Church Reed Smith Boosts Munich Office with Hire Of Telecommunication, Media & Technology Partner International law firm Reed Smith is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Stephan Rippert as a partner in the Munich office. He will join the firm on January 9th 2006, and will spearhead the growth of the telecommunication, media and technology practice in Munich. Dr Rippert, who joins the firm from Haarmann Hemmelrath, specialises in advising clients in the telecommunications, media and technology sector, comprising a major global financial services media provider, a leading medical products company, a major US entertainment company and a well known French software company. He focuses on both transactional and litigious work including intellectual property, outsourcing, private equity, e-commerce and licensing issues. Dr Rippert also has extensive knowledge and experience of the New York legal market, he is admitted to the New York bar and has previously held Senior Counsel position at Viacom International in New York. Dr Stefan Kugler, Partner, Reed Smith commented: "We are delighted that Dr Rippert will be joining the Munich office. He has strong US and European connections and these will substantially facilitate the development of the Munich operation and indeed the Global TMT capability." Dr Stephan Rippert added: "Joining Reed Smith is an attractive proposition, the firm has a clear commitment to the evolution of its German operation and its strong US and UK presence offers an appealing platform for growth. I am delighted to be joining Reed Smith at such an exciting time" Reed Smith Announces Sean Halpin Award Recipient - Oakland Partner James M. Wood Recognized for Years of Pro Bono Work; Four Reed Smith Partners Honorable Mention Winners Reed Smith LLP, a top-25 international law firm, named James M. Wood as winner of its annual Sean Halpin Award for outstanding pro bono accomplishments. Mr. Wood is a senior partner in the Product Liability group in the firm's Oakland, CA office. The annual recognition was established by the firm to honor Sean Halpin, an outstanding young partner in its Philadelphia office who died July 10, 2004. A recipient is selected annually by the Reed Smith Pro Bono Committee from nominees who have made significant pro bono or other community service contributions during the previous year. All employees of the firm are eligible for the award. Recognition includes a $10,000 donation from Reed Smith to a nonprofit organization designated by the winner. Mr. Wood selected the AIDS Legal Referral Panel of San Francisco (ALRP) as this year's nonprofit beneficiary. "Jim has been involved in many pro bono causes since joining Reed Smith, but it has been his commitment to people with HIV/AIDS and their needs -- both legal and otherwise -- that makes him a pro bono champion," said Ira Lefton, the firm's Pro Bono Committee Chair. "Jim is the quintessential example of a partner who never hesitates to put one more iron in the fire when a pro bono opportunity arises. He is being honored not just for his efforts but for his ability to inspire the efforts of other attorneys and staff members." For many years, Mr. Wood has been active with the San Francisco-based AIDS Legal Referral Panel and has represented people with HIV/AIDS in a wide variety of legal actions, including those involving breaches of confidentiality and improper disclosure of HIV status. In 2005, Jim initiated a partnership with the Panel which will make Reed Smith the Panel's principal law firm on issues related to client confidentiality. Mr. Wood has most recently been working on a California class action on behalf of school-age children with diabetes. In September, Reed Smith filed a civil action against two school districts and the California Department of Education seeking an order requiring schools to provide basic health services to children with diabetes which are required for them to attend school safely. He has been a leader of that 20-lawyer litigation team, and he has personally logged more than 300 hours on this effort. The case is progressing and it is hopeful there will be a resolution without the need for litigation. "To receive an award in the name of Sean Halpin is a great honor for me," Mr. Wood said. "I see this award, above all, as recognition of Sean's deep commitment to social justice. I hope it inspires us to continue working together to keep his commitment alive. I am also very grateful that this prize honors and benefits those at the ALRP who do not accept injustice, but take action to do something about it." "This recognition of Jim's efforts will provide much needed visibility and support for our organization's work," said Bill Hirsh, Executive Director of ALRP. "And we're delighted to have additional funds to help in bolstering the organization's work in the year ahead. We heartily congratulate Jim on this well-deserved honor." Halpin Award 2005 Honorable Mention Winners The Committee recognized four other members of the firm as Honorable Mention winners for their outstanding pro bono activities in 2005: Pittsburgh and Philadelphia partner Efrem M. Grail for his efforts on behalf of incarcerated individuals in the Gulf Coast region in the wake of Hurricane Katrina; Falls Church partner Bill Thomas and Richmond partner Lane Kneedler for their work securing the commutation Robin Lovitt's death penalty sentence to life in prison in Virginia; and Pittsburgh Of Counsel Kim Watterson's successful challenge to a student's expulsion from public high school for writing rap music at home and posting it on the Internet. Mr. Halpin's Legacy Sean Halpin joined Reed Smith in September 1993 and progressed through the ranks before being elected a partner in the Philadelphia office. He practiced in the areas of commercial litigation and arbitration, both in the United States and internationally, and had jury trial, arbitration, and appellate experience in a broad range of commercial and general litigation areas. An ardent pro bono advocate, Mr. Halpin was a recipient of the VIP Award given by the Philadelphia Bar Association in recognition of exceptional efforts by an attorney on behalf of the indigent and disadvantaged. Large law firm Reed Smith has snagged the top China guy from Greenberg Traurig, Jinshu "John" Zhang, to increase Reed Smith's now significant China presence. Large law firm Reed Smith has snagged the top China guy from Greenberg Traurig, Jinshu "John" Zhang, to increase Reed Smith's now significant China presence. One of the leading environmental lawyers in New Jersey, Steven Picco, has led a small defection from the giant firm Reed Smith to the smaller firm Saul Ewing. One of the leading environmental lawyers in New Jersey, Steven Picco, has led a small defection from the giant firm Reed Smith to the smaller firm Saul Ewing. "A provocative ad that features a young girl in a cage is at the center of a legal challenge to the UK ban on political advertising-which, if successful, could dramatically alter the European advertising landscape. Currently, many European countries have laws that prohibit political advertising on the airwaves, in an effort to avoid creating unfair advantages for political groups with greater resources. However, nonprofit groups, prevented by such laws from airing advocacy ads, claim such bans violate their free-speech guarantees. The most recent-and perhaps most graphic-challenge to the ban comes from Animal Defenders International (ADI), a group that has sought to advertise on television its "My Mate's a Primate" campaign highlighting the use of performing primates in the entertainment industry. ADI's latest commercial depicts an obviously frightened young girl in a cage, juxtaposed to a chimpanzee in a cage, accompanied by a voice-over pointing out that a chimpanzee has the average mental capacity of a human four-year-old. Though the commercial can be viewed online, ADI was unable to receive permission from British broadcast authorities to have the commercial aired on TV. ADI, which has offices in London and San Francisco, was told that its advertisement would be banned out-of-hand under the UK's Communications Act 2003's provision prohibiting political advertising on television, because of the group's campaign activities. "This is a ban on our right to free speech," stated Jan Creamer, chief executive of ADI. She noted that it is legal for companies to use animals in their commercials to sell products, "but not for us to point out how animals like these are outsourced, how they are kept and trained, before they go near a film set." ADI is asking the UK's High Court to declare the ban on political advertising as incompatible with the right to freedom of expression under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The UK court has indicated it will reserve judgment on the case until fall. If the UK court rules against ADI, the group said it plans appeal to the European Court. ADI's case is considered to be a test case for how issue advertising will be treated under the Human Rights Convention. The European Court has ruled before, in a Swiss case, in favor of allowing advocacy groups to advertise on television, according to ADI. The group is hoping to use this case as precedent. Why This Matters: The lack of ability to air political advertising is a key distinction between the U.S. and European markets. If nonprofit groups, companies, lobbyists and others win the right to air issue ads in Europe, it is expected to open up a major new source of advertising revenue. "A provocative ad that features a young girl in a cage is at the center of a legal challenge to the UK ban on political advertising-which, if successful, could dramatically alter the European advertising landscape. Currently, many European countries have laws that prohibit political advertising on the airwaves, in an effort to avoid creating unfair advantages for political groups with greater resources. However, nonprofit groups, prevented by such laws from airing advocacy ads, claim such bans violate their free-speech guarantees. The most recent-and perhaps most graphic-challenge to the ban comes from Animal Defenders International (ADI), a group that has sought to advertise on television its "My Mate's a Primate" campaign highlighting the use of performing primates in the entertainment industry. ADI's latest commercial depicts an obviously frightened young girl in a cage, juxtaposed to a chimpanzee in a cage, accompanied by a voice-over pointing out that a chimpanzee has the average mental capacity of a human four-year-old. Though the commercial can be viewed online, ADI was unable to receive permission from British broadcast authorities to have the commercial aired on TV. ADI, which has offices in London and San Francisco, was told that its advertisement would be banned out-of-hand under the UK's Communications Act 2003's provision prohibiting political advertising on television, because of the group's campaign activities. "This is a ban on our right to free speech," stated Jan Creamer, chief executive of ADI. She noted that it is legal for companies to use animals in their commercials to sell products, "but not for us to point out how animals like these are outsourced, how they are kept and trained, before they go near a film set." ADI is asking the UK's High Court to declare the ban on political advertising as incompatible with the right to freedom of expression under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The UK court has indicated it will reserve judgment on the case until fall. If the UK court rules against ADI, the group said it plans appeal to the European Court. ADI's case is considered to be a test case for how issue advertising will be treated under the Human Rights Convention. The European Court has ruled before, in a Swiss case, in favor of allowing advocacy groups to advertise on television, according to ADI. The group is hoping to use this case as precedent. Why This Matters: The lack of ability to air political advertising is a key distinction between the U.S. and European markets. If nonprofit groups, companies, lobbyists and others win the right to air issue ads in Europe, it is expected to open up a major new source of advertising revenue. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1972 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1972&page=27 Address : 8110 Gatehouse RoadP.O. Box 747, Suite 100E, Phone : 703-205-8000, City : Falls Church http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=194 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=194&page=28 Address : 725 Jackson StreetSuite 200, Phone : 540-372-3515, City : Fredericksburg Thirteen Hirschler Fleischer attorneys were named 2007 Virginia Super Lawyers in a recent study by Law & Politics magazine. Super Lawyers identified the top five percent of the lawyers in Virginia based on a survey and research conducted by Law & Politics. The Hirschler Fleischer partners named Virginia Super Lawyers are as follows: David F. Belkowitz, Real Estate K. Marshall Cook, Health Care S. Brian Farmer, Business/Corporate Law L. Charles Long, Jr., Real Estate R. Webb Moore, Real Estate Litigation Charles H. Rothenberg, Real Estate John W. Steele, Real Estate Michael H. Terry, Real Estate James W. Theobald, Land Use and Zoning W. Michael Walker, Business/Corporate Law James L. Weinberg, Mergers & Acquisitions Jay M. Weinberg, Real Estate Charles F. Witthoefft, Business Litigation Additionally, Michael H. Terry and James W. Theobald, both partners in the Real Estate section, were recognized in the top fifty attorneys in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Law & Politics mailed ballots to over 19,000 attorneys in Virginia. Law & Politics performs the polling, research and selection of Super Lawyers in a process designed to identify lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Super Lawyers is a comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys, representing a wide range of practice areas, firm sizes and geographic locations Thirteen Hirschler Fleischer attorneys were named 2007 Virginia Super Lawyers in a recent study by Law & Politics magazine. Super Lawyers identified the top five percent of the lawyers in Virginia based on a survey and research conducted by Law & Politics. The Hirschler Fleischer partners named Virginia Super Lawyers are as follows: David F. Belkowitz, Real Estate K. Marshall Cook, Health Care S. Brian Farmer, Business/Corporate Law L. Charles Long, Jr., Real Estate R. Webb Moore, Real Estate Litigation Charles H. Rothenberg, Real Estate John W. Steele, Real Estate Michael H. Terry, Real Estate James W. Theobald, Land Use and Zoning W. Michael Walker, Business/Corporate Law James L. Weinberg, Mergers & Acquisitions Jay M. Weinberg, Real Estate Charles F. Witthoefft, Business Litigation Additionally, Michael H. Terry and James W. Theobald, both partners in the Real Estate section, were recognized in the top fifty attorneys in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Law & Politics mailed ballots to over 19,000 attorneys in Virginia. Law & Politics performs the polling, research and selection of Super Lawyers in a process designed to identify lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Super Lawyers is a comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys, representing a wide range of practice areas, firm sizes and geographic locations Hirschler Fleischer was named the top Real Estate law firm in Virginia for the third year in a row by Chambers and Partners, a highly respected research organization. In addition, this year, the firm's Litigation Section joined other high-ranking firms in Virginia on the Chamber's list. The 2007 edition of Chambers USA, which was released June 15 online, identifies the most skilled legal practitioners throughout the country based on the qualities most valued by clients. The publication recognized real estate attorneys Jay Weinberg as a "fabulous gentleman [with a] knack for handling delicate and tricky matters," Jim Theobald as "high-caliber and talented," Mike Terry as "very comfortable to work with [and gains clients' confidence by] rolling up his sleeves and finding a practical way to get things done" and Chuck Rothenberg as "a dominant force for zoning." Chair of Hirschler Fleischer's litigation department, Rick Witthoefft was also recognized for his excellence in litigation as "wonderful and outstanding." In the category of Real Estate, Chambers USA says the following about Hirschler Fleischer: "This "fantastic all-star team" operates out of offices in Richmond and Fredericksburg. The firm has established a long-standing reputation for providing comprehensive advice on developments, which includes handling permitting, zoning, easements and tax advice in relation to mixed-use projects, housing developments and office conversions. The team also handles a steady stream of REIT advice for a national client base, while local developers, engineers and brokers highlighted the group as a "major strength in real estate transactions." Chambers USA also commended the excellence of the firm's litigation section: "This successful regional firm has a litigation department of about 22 lawyers, and is "a fine presence in the marketplace," according to peers. The group acts for clients in construction, employment, IP, products liability, real estate, domestic land use, securities, and trust and estate litigation." Clients interviewed include New Kent Vineyards, Atack Properties; Daniel Corporation; Gumenick Properties; HHHunt; Highwoods Properties; Home Depot and Silver Companies. Hirschler Fleischer was named the top Real Estate law firm in Virginia for the third year in a row by Chambers and Partners, a highly respected research organization. In addition, this year, the firm's Litigation Section joined other high-ranking firms in Virginia on the Chamber's list. The 2007 edition of Chambers USA, which was released June 15 online, identifies the most skilled legal practitioners throughout the country based on the qualities most valued by clients. The publication recognized real estate attorneys Jay Weinberg as a "fabulous gentleman [with a] knack for handling delicate and tricky matters," Jim Theobald as "high-caliber and talented," Mike Terry as "very comfortable to work with [and gains clients' confidence by] rolling up his sleeves and finding a practical way to get things done" and Chuck Rothenberg as "a dominant force for zoning." Chair of Hirschler Fleischer's litigation department, Rick Witthoefft was also recognized for his excellence in litigation as "wonderful and outstanding." In the category of Real Estate, Chambers USA says the following about Hirschler Fleischer: "This "fantastic all-star team" operates out of offices in Richmond and Fredericksburg. The firm has established a long-standing reputation for providing comprehensive advice on developments, which includes handling permitting, zoning, easements and tax advice in relation to mixed-use projects, housing developments and office conversions. The team also handles a steady stream of REIT advice for a national client base, while local developers, engineers and brokers highlighted the group as a "major strength in real estate transactions." Chambers USA also commended the excellence of the firm's litigation section: "This successful regional firm has a litigation department of about 22 lawyers, and is "a fine presence in the marketplace," according to peers. The group acts for clients in construction, employment, IP, products liability, real estate, domestic land use, securities, and trust and estate litigation." Clients interviewed include New Kent Vineyards, Atack Properties; Daniel Corporation; Gumenick Properties; HHHunt; Highwoods Properties; Home Depot and Silver Companies. Hirschler Fleischer announced today that Luder F. Milton and Jason T. Jacoby have joined the firm's litigation section. As an associate in the litigation section, Luder F. Milton will handle a broad range of commercial litigation matters. Luder has extensive arbitration, jury and trial experience and is admitted to practice in all Federal courts within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Luder received his B.A. from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah and his J.D. from the Washington & Lee University School of Law. Prior to joining Hirschler Fleischer, Luder practiced with a local boutique litigation firm and has published an article on environmental matters. Luder is actively involved in the Richmond Bar Association, the Virginia State Bar and the Steering Committee of the Virginia Chapter of the Federalist Society. Prior to law school, Luder spent two years in Costa Rica as a missionary and is fluent in Spanish. As an associate in the litigation section, Jason T. Jacoby will represent clients in jury trials, bench trials and arbitration hearings, as well as regulatory and administrative hearings in both federal and state courts across Virginia. Jason will also represent clients before attorneys general and in other government enforcement matters across the country. Jason received his J.D. from the University of Richmond T.C. Williams School of Law and his B.A. from the same Alma Mater. Jason sits on the Board of Directors of the Pregnancy Resource Center and has sat on the boards of the University of Richmond Alumni Association and the Henrico County Court-Appointed Special Advocate Association (CASA). Jason is admitted to practice in the state of Virginia, the U.S. District Court in the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. He is also a member of the Virginia State Bar, the Richmond Bar Association, and the National Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers. Hirschler Fleischer announced today that Luder F. Milton and Jason T. Jacoby have joined the firm's litigation section. As an associate in the litigation section, Luder F. Milton will handle a broad range of commercial litigation matters. Luder has extensive arbitration, jury and trial experience and is admitted to practice in all Federal courts within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Luder received his B.A. from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah and his J.D. from the Washington & Lee University School of Law. Prior to joining Hirschler Fleischer, Luder practiced with a local boutique litigation firm and has published an article on environmental matters. Luder is actively involved in the Richmond Bar Association, the Virginia State Bar and the Steering Committee of the Virginia Chapter of the Federalist Society. Prior to law school, Luder spent two years in Costa Rica as a missionary and is fluent in Spanish. As an associate in the litigation section, Jason T. Jacoby will represent clients in jury trials, bench trials and arbitration hearings, as well as regulatory and administrative hearings in both federal and state courts across Virginia. Jason will also represent clients before attorneys general and in other government enforcement matters across the country. Jason received his J.D. from the University of Richmond T.C. Williams School of Law and his B.A. from the same Alma Mater. Jason sits on the Board of Directors of the Pregnancy Resource Center and has sat on the boards of the University of Richmond Alumni Association and the Henrico County Court-Appointed Special Advocate Association (CASA). Jason is admitted to practice in the state of Virginia, the U.S. District Court in the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. He is also a member of the Virginia State Bar, the Richmond Bar Association, and the National Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1091 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1091&page=29 Address : 410 Neff Avenue, Phone : 540-434-5353, City : Harrisonburg http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1453 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1453&page=32 Address : Kemper Street Station825 Kemper Street, Phone : 434-846-4040, City : Lynchburg Roanoke, VA-January 4, 2006 - Woods Rogers PLC is proud to announce that Mark Loftis, Principal in the firm's Roanoke, VA office and Chair of the firm's Litigation section has recently been elected President of the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys (VADA). Mark will serve as President through 2006, leading the organization in to its annual meeting in late October. Mr. Loftis joined Woods Rogers in 1989 and practices primarily in the product liability litigation, commercial litigation and technology litigation practice groups. He has extensive experience representing product manufacturers, product retailers, and utility companies in litigation matters in both State and Federal Courts. He frequently writes and lectures on warranty, contract and technology law issues. In addition to serving as President-Elect of VADA, Mark is a member of the American Bar Association, the Virginia Bar Association, the Virginia State Bar and the Defense Research Institute. Mr. Loftis received his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1989, and was the recipient of the law school's Roger & Madeline Traynor Prize. He received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University in 1986, where he graduated with honors. About VADA: The VADA is a statewide bar association of approximately 800 members serving the professional needs of attorneys whose practices primarily involve the defense of civil litigation matters. For more information on the VADA, please contact Leigh Farmer, Executive Director, VADA, 804-649-1002 or lfarmer@vada.org. About Woods Rogers PLC: For more than 110 years, Woods Rogers PLC has provided legal solutions to clients across Virginia and the Southeast. With professionals in 5 offices practicing in 25 legal specialties across all major industries, Woods Rogers is "Where You Need Us." For media inquiries, interviews or photo requests, please contact Jon Hulak, Marketing Director, Woods Rogers PLC at jhulak@woodsrogers.com or 540-983-7600. Roanoke, VA-January 4, 2006 - Woods Rogers PLC is proud to announce that Mark Loftis, Principal in the firm's Roanoke, VA office and Chair of the firm's Litigation section has recently been elected President of the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys (VADA). Mark will serve as President through 2006, leading the organization in to its annual meeting in late October. Mr. Loftis joined Woods Rogers in 1989 and practices primarily in the product liability litigation, commercial litigation and technology litigation practice groups. He has extensive experience representing product manufacturers, product retailers, and utility companies in litigation matters in both State and Federal Courts. He frequently writes and lectures on warranty, contract and technology law issues. In addition to serving as President-Elect of VADA, Mark is a member of the American Bar Association, the Virginia Bar Association, the Virginia State Bar and the Defense Research Institute. Mr. Loftis received his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1989, and was the recipient of the law school's Roger & Madeline Traynor Prize. He received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University in 1986, where he graduated with honors. About VADA: The VADA is a statewide bar association of approximately 800 members serving the professional needs of attorneys whose practices primarily involve the defense of civil litigation matters. For more information on the VADA, please contact Leigh Farmer, Executive Director, VADA, 804-649-1002 or lfarmer@vada.org. About Woods Rogers PLC: For more than 110 years, Woods Rogers PLC has provided legal solutions to clients across Virginia and the Southeast. With professionals in 5 offices practicing in 25 legal specialties across all major industries, Woods Rogers is "Where You Need Us." For media inquiries, interviews or photo requests, please contact Jon Hulak, Marketing Director, Woods Rogers PLC at jhulak@woodsrogers.com or 540-983-7600. Victor Cardwell and Tom Winn will be speaking to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) at their Annual Operations Forum in Atlanta, GA on Jan 19-21, 2006. They will cover topics, including: Drug Tests and Physicals: Legal Requirements after Hiring Wage and Hour Violations and What They Can Cost Your Company The Multicultural Scrapyard Victor Cardwell and Tom Winn will be speaking to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) at their Annual Operations Forum in Atlanta, GA on Jan 19-21, 2006. They will cover topics, including: Drug Tests and Physicals: Legal Requirements after Hiring Wage and Hour Violations and What They Can Cost Your Company The Multicultural Scrapyard http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2600 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2600&page=34 Address : 8484 Westpark Drive9th Floor, Phone : 703-744-8000, City : McLean The New Jersey office of Patton Boggs LLP recently donated over 60 backpacks filled with school supplies to Bridges Outreach, Inc., a nonprofit organization for the homeless community, for distribution to children living in homeless shelters in the City of Newark. During the month of August, attorneys and staff helped raise over $1,000 by wearing jeans to work every Friday for the firm's first annual Back-To-School Backpack Drive. All of the proceeds from "Jeans Fridays" went toward purchasing backpacks and school supplies such as notebooks, pencils, crayons, rulers, and folders. "We are pleased to have had the opportunity to assist students in our community by participating in the backpack and school supply initiative. All of us at Patton Boggs are committed to supporting worthwhile efforts in the City of Newark," said John McGahren, New Jersey Managing Partner. Bridges Outreach, Inc. creates opportunities for people of all ages to make a difference in the life of homeless friends while enriching their own in countless ways. The organization forms relationships between the housed and homeless that is founded on mutual dignity and respect. Bridges Outreach, Inc. includes over 1,500 kind and caring volunteers delivering over 75,000 brown -bagged lunches, clothing and toiletries donations as well as other necessities each year. "The donation from Patton Boggs will help Bridges Outreach, Inc. reach over 100 children. Not only will these children have basic necessities for the school year provided to them, but on an emotional level, they will fit in with their classmates and eliminate any anxiety about feeling different because they don't have those necessities. Their parents will also benefit from the donation because they will know we helped them take care of their children's needs," said Lois Bhatt, Executive Director for Bridges Outreach, Inc. The New Jersey office of Patton Boggs LLP recently donated over 60 backpacks filled with school supplies to Bridges Outreach, Inc., a nonprofit organization for the homeless community, for distribution to children living in homeless shelters in the City of Newark. During the month of August, attorneys and staff helped raise over $1,000 by wearing jeans to work every Friday for the firm's first annual Back-To-School Backpack Drive. All of the proceeds from "Jeans Fridays" went toward purchasing backpacks and school supplies such as notebooks, pencils, crayons, rulers, and folders. "We are pleased to have had the opportunity to assist students in our community by participating in the backpack and school supply initiative. All of us at Patton Boggs are committed to supporting worthwhile efforts in the City of Newark," said John McGahren, New Jersey Managing Partner. Bridges Outreach, Inc. creates opportunities for people of all ages to make a difference in the life of homeless friends while enriching their own in countless ways. The organization forms relationships between the housed and homeless that is founded on mutual dignity and respect. Bridges Outreach, Inc. includes over 1,500 kind and caring volunteers delivering over 75,000 brown -bagged lunches, clothing and toiletries donations as well as other necessities each year. "The donation from Patton Boggs will help Bridges Outreach, Inc. reach over 100 children. Not only will these children have basic necessities for the school year provided to them, but on an emotional level, they will fit in with their classmates and eliminate any anxiety about feeling different because they don't have those necessities. Their parents will also benefit from the donation because they will know we helped them take care of their children's needs," said Lois Bhatt, Executive Director for Bridges Outreach, Inc. In a continuing campaign to add top legal talent to its New York office, Patton Boggs LLP has attracted transportation and project finance specialist R. Jay Fortin. Mr. Fortin is the latest lateral partner hire to join the firm's growing Manhattan office. He brings over 20 years of experience in project finance, aircraft, and railcar leasing and financing, secured lending, structured trade and commodity finance, and cross-border investment, with particular emphasis on the energy and transportation industries. "The addition of Jay is the latest step in what has been a measured growth plan for our New York office since we opened in late 2006," noted Jim Tyrrell Managing Partner of the Greater New York Metropolitan Area. "His project finance experience will enhance our overall capabilities, and thus provide our clients with a wider range of legal services on matters relating to corporate finance, international business transactions, and complex commercial litigation." At Patton Boggs, Mr. Fortin will continue to represent foreign and domestic banks and financial institutions, equipment lessors, airlines, developers, and private equity funds in a wide range of domestic and cross-border transactions involving energy and transportation infrastructure, such as power plants and ports, and transportation equipment. He has successfully negotiated numerous joint venture agreements between foreign and domestic parties relating to the acquisition, development, and financing of such assets, and has represented bidders in energy industry privatizations in Latin America and Central and Eastern Europe. Specifically, Mr. Fortin is experienced with electric power generating facilities and related assets and the acquisition, leasing, and financing of commercial aircraft. He advises both lender/lessors and borrower/lessees in all varieties of structured financing, refinancing, workouts, and restructurings with respect to such assets. Mr. Fortin frequently speaks on cross-border investment issues at international conferences and has written articles for project and trade finance publications He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a J.D. in 1984 and attended the University of Rhode Island, earning a B.S., with honors, in 1977. In a continuing campaign to add top legal talent to its New York office, Patton Boggs LLP has attracted transportation and project finance specialist R. Jay Fortin. Mr. Fortin is the latest lateral partner hire to join the firm's growing Manhattan office. He brings over 20 years of experience in project finance, aircraft, and railcar leasing and financing, secured lending, structured trade and commodity finance, and cross-border investment, with particular emphasis on the energy and transportation industries. "The addition of Jay is the latest step in what has been a measured growth plan for our New York office since we opened in late 2006," noted Jim Tyrrell Managing Partner of the Greater New York Metropolitan Area. "His project finance experience will enhance our overall capabilities, and thus provide our clients with a wider range of legal services on matters relating to corporate finance, international business transactions, and complex commercial litigation." At Patton Boggs, Mr. Fortin will continue to represent foreign and domestic banks and financial institutions, equipment lessors, airlines, developers, and private equity funds in a wide range of domestic and cross-border transactions involving energy and transportation infrastructure, such as power plants and ports, and transportation equipment. He has successfully negotiated numerous joint venture agreements between foreign and domestic parties relating to the acquisition, development, and financing of such assets, and has represented bidders in energy industry privatizations in Latin America and Central and Eastern Europe. Specifically, Mr. Fortin is experienced with electric power generating facilities and related assets and the acquisition, leasing, and financing of commercial aircraft. He advises both lender/lessors and borrower/lessees in all varieties of structured financing, refinancing, workouts, and restructurings with respect to such assets. Mr. Fortin frequently speaks on cross-border investment issues at international conferences and has written articles for project and trade finance publications He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a J.D. in 1984 and attended the University of Rhode Island, earning a B.S., with honors, in 1977. Patton Boggs LLP continues to add top talent to its growing intellectual property practice, hiring two new partners in the firm's Northern Virginia office, Mark R. Shanks and Toni-Junell Herbert. Mr. Shanks and Ms. Herbert were founding partners of the IP firm Shanks & Herbert, where they provided counsel to clients on intellectual property and patent litigation, auditing and due diligence, licensing and technology transfer, and corporate issues related to pharmaceutical drug development. "We are pleased that Toni and Mark have joined our expanding IP group," noted Scott Chambers, Chair of the firm's Intellectual Property department. "I've had the pleasure of working closely with them in the past; their combined experience handling a broad range of complex matters compliments our present expertise and enhances our ability to more effectively serve our clients." Ms. Herbert will assist clients in identifying and developing intellectual property (IP) protection strategies, overseeing the preparation and prosecution of patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and serving as lead counsel in Interference Proceedings and trial counsel in patent infringement actions. Her litigation background has provided her with extensive experience for advising clients during all phases of the discovery process, including drafting/filing and responding to document requests and interrogatories, preparing and filing discovery motions, deposing witnesses, defending witnesses, and selecting, deposing, and preparing experts. Before practicing law, Ms. Herbert worked in the fields of biochemistry and physics, receiving a B.A. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1981. She conducted post graduate biochemical research studying cellular protein mechanisms as the Senior Research Technician at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard, participated in the development of diagnostic histochemical profiles for breast cancer at New England Medical Center/Tufts, and carried out experiments in high-energy physics at the University of Colorado Cyclotron. She attended the University of Baltimore School of Law, earning a J.D. in 1990, and interned/clerked for the Hon. Phillip Baldwin at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in 1989. Mr. Shanks' practice focuses on representing parties involved in IP litigation, including the representation of branded pharmaceutical manufacturers in patent infringement actions brought against generic drug-makers. His work in this area involves case management and strategy development, expert preparation and analysis of expert theories and reports, supervision of discovery request and response preparation, drafting of discovery and dispositive motions, deposition defense, and settlement negotiations. In addition, Mr. Shanks counsels clients on IP matters as they affect mergers and acquisitions and other commercial and technology-related transactions, including due diligence and contract drafting and review. After co-founding Shanks & Herbert, he was later a partner at one of the world's 15 largest full-service law firms, while earlier in his career he served as an associate at a leading IP law firm and patent counsel at a prominent Fortune 500 diversified technology corporation. He has represented domestic and international clients in nearly every aspect of patent acquisition and enforcement before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and numerous U.S. courts. Mr. Shanks graduated with a J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law, with distinction, in 1987 and earned a B.S. from Iowa State University in Chemical Engineering in 1985. Patton Boggs LLP continues to add top talent to its growing intellectual property practice, hiring two new partners in the firm's Northern Virginia office, Mark R. Shanks and Toni-Junell Herbert. Mr. Shanks and Ms. Herbert were founding partners of the IP firm Shanks & Herbert, where they provided counsel to clients on intellectual property and patent litigation, auditing and due diligence, licensing and technology transfer, and corporate issues related to pharmaceutical drug development. "We are pleased that Toni and Mark have joined our expanding IP group," noted Scott Chambers, Chair of the firm's Intellectual Property department. "I've had the pleasure of working closely with them in the past; their combined experience handling a broad range of complex matters compliments our present expertise and enhances our ability to more effectively serve our clients." Ms. Herbert will assist clients in identifying and developing intellectual property (IP) protection strategies, overseeing the preparation and prosecution of patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and serving as lead counsel in Interference Proceedings and trial counsel in patent infringement actions. Her litigation background has provided her with extensive experience for advising clients during all phases of the discovery process, including drafting/filing and responding to document requests and interrogatories, preparing and filing discovery motions, deposing witnesses, defending witnesses, and selecting, deposing, and preparing experts. Before practicing law, Ms. Herbert worked in the fields of biochemistry and physics, receiving a B.A. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1981. She conducted post graduate biochemical research studying cellular protein mechanisms as the Senior Research Technician at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard, participated in the development of diagnostic histochemical profiles for breast cancer at New England Medical Center/Tufts, and carried out experiments in high-energy physics at the University of Colorado Cyclotron. She attended the University of Baltimore School of Law, earning a J.D. in 1990, and interned/clerked for the Hon. Phillip Baldwin at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in 1989. Mr. Shanks' practice focuses on representing parties involved in IP litigation, including the representation of branded pharmaceutical manufacturers in patent infringement actions brought against generic drug-makers. His work in this area involves case management and strategy development, expert preparation and analysis of expert theories and reports, supervision of discovery request and response preparation, drafting of discovery and dispositive motions, deposition defense, and settlement negotiations. In addition, Mr. Shanks counsels clients on IP matters as they affect mergers and acquisitions and other commercial and technology-related transactions, including due diligence and contract drafting and review. After co-founding Shanks & Herbert, he was later a partner at one of the world's 15 largest full-service law firms, while earlier in his career he served as an associate at a leading IP law firm and patent counsel at a prominent Fortune 500 diversified technology corporation. He has represented domestic and international clients in nearly every aspect of patent acquisition and enforcement before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and numerous U.S. courts. Mr. Shanks graduated with a J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law, with distinction, in 1987 and earned a B.S. from Iowa State University in Chemical Engineering in 1985. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1845 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1845&page=35 Address : 8405 Greensboro DriveSuite 100, Phone : 703-749-1000, City : McLean WTHF is pleased to announce that Diana Fordyce has been named Director of Litigation Support Services. She will be providing support to all of WTHF's offices. Diana will provide advisement on best practices for electronic case management. In addition, she will consult with our attorneys, clients and paralegals on the organization and management of electronic evidence and case-related documents. WTHF is pleased to announce that Diana Fordyce has been named Director of Litigation Support Services. She will be providing support to all of WTHF's offices. Diana will provide advisement on best practices for electronic case management. In addition, she will consult with our attorneys, clients and paralegals on the organization and management of electronic evidence and case-related documents. The Law Firm of Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP is pleased to announce the addition of three experienced associates. Briana Stolley and Mary Klima have joined the real estate group in our McLean office and Scott Fitzsimmons will focus on construction law, government contracts and suretyship. We are also pleased to announce the addition of six new associates: Michael Bauer, Adam Brink, Christopher Cheatham, Laura Daniel, Stephen McBrady, and Scott Palmer. These six new associates are focusing their practice on construction law, government contracts and suretyship. The Law Firm of Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP is pleased to announce the addition of three experienced associates. Briana Stolley and Mary Klima have joined the real estate group in our McLean office and Scott Fitzsimmons will focus on construction law, government contracts and suretyship. We are also pleased to announce the addition of six new associates: Michael Bauer, Adam Brink, Christopher Cheatham, Laura Daniel, Stephen McBrady, and Scott Palmer. These six new associates are focusing their practice on construction law, government contracts and suretyship. Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald is pleased to announce two new partners: C. William Groscup in our McLean, VA office and David E. Nemeth in our Irvine, CA office. Bill Groscup is an experienced commercial litigation attorney who has worked on contract, trade secret, antitrust, and employment matters. Bill has represented clients in state and federal courts, before administrative agencies, and in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. David Nemeth's experience includes litigation and counseling services to general contractors, subcontractors, owners, developers and sureties. He has provided advice to clients during contract preparation, performance, preparing and defending complex claims and dispute resolution on large and small projects in both the public and private sectors. Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald is pleased to announce two new partners: C. William Groscup in our McLean, VA office and David E. Nemeth in our Irvine, CA office. Bill Groscup is an experienced commercial litigation attorney who has worked on contract, trade secret, antitrust, and employment matters. Bill has represented clients in state and federal courts, before administrative agencies, and in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. David Nemeth's experience includes litigation and counseling services to general contractors, subcontractors, owners, developers and sureties. He has provided advice to clients during contract preparation, performance, preparing and defending complex claims and dispute resolution on large and small projects in both the public and private sectors. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2479 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=2479&page=36 Address : 1650 Tysons BoulevardSuite 300, Phone : , City : McLean Corporate Partner Cori Allen Rejoins Morrison & Foerster's Palo Alto Office Morrison & Foerster LLP announced today that Cori Allen has rejoined its Corporate Group in the Palo Alto office as a partner. Mr. Allen was previously a partner at Morrison & Foerster, where he practiced from 1994-2000. He comes to the firm from BEA Systems, Inc., where he served as the Vice President of Legal Affairs. "Cori brings with him a unique combination of legal skills and hands-on experience that will further enhance our capabilities in Silicon Valley and firmwide," said Robert S. Townsend, Co-Chair of Morrison & Foerster's Corporate Group. "His experience as an executive at one of the most dynamic companies in Silicon Valley will further enhance the firm's ability to understand the issues confronting our corporate clients and offer real-world solutions to their problems. We are pleased to welcome him back to the team." Mr. Allen's responsibilities at BEA included all mergers and acquisitions, Sarbanes-Oxley compliance, SEC public reporting, technology transactions, and venture capital investments. His practice focuses on securities matters, M&A, venture capital investments, general corporate counseling for publicly and privately held companies and technology licensing. "Cori is a top-notch corporate and transactional lawyer, and his experience as in-house counsel, dealing directly with the business realities facing executives today, is invaluable," said Keith C. Wetmore, Chair of Morrison & Foerster. "We are delighted to have him back at the firm." "Morrison & Foerster is a firm with exceptional quality, depth, and breadth of practice," commented Mr. Allen. "I am very excited about working with my colleagues at Morrison & Foerster, both old and new, and look forward to growing my practice in the Palo Alto office." Mr. Allen was a Fulbright Scholar studying the Korean securities market in Seoul, Korea, in 1992 and 1993. He received his J.D., magna cum laude and Order of the Coif, from Cornell University in 1992 and his Bachelor's degree from Princeton University in 1988. Morrison & Foerster's China Offices represented Time Share Media Co., Ltd. (??????), also known as TSM, in its US$20 million financing from The Carlyle Group. TSM is a China-based advertising and media company that specializes in providing outdoor advertising services. The Morrison & Foerster team was lead by Hong Kong partner Xiaohu Ma. Morrison & Foerster's China Offices represented Time Share Media Co., Ltd. (??????), also known as TSM, in its US$20 million financing from The Carlyle Group. TSM is a China-based advertising and media company that specializes in providing outdoor advertising services. The Morrison & Foerster team was lead by Hong Kong partner Xiaohu Ma. Ninety-nine attorneys from Morrison & Foerster have made the 2008 Best Lawyers in America directory -- including 21 attorneys named to the list for the first time. Of the firm's listed attorneys, 12 have been considered a Best Lawyer in America for 10 years or more, another 9, for 20 years or more. Best Lawyers in America listings represent 79 specialties in all 50 states and Washington, DC., and is compiled through an exhaustive peer-review survey, developed and refined for nearly 25 years, in which thousands of the top lawyers in the U.S. confidentially evaluate their professional peers. Lawyers are not allowed to pay a fee to be listed. Best Lawyers publishes an advertisement-free book each year to honor all those chosen - something that no other survey does. The forthcoming 14th edition of Best Lawyers (2008) is based on nearly 2 million confidential evaluations by only the top attorneys in the country. Best Lawyers also conducted thousands of extensive telephone interviews with leading attorneys throughout its balloting process. Ninety-nine attorneys from Morrison & Foerster have made the 2008 Best Lawyers in America directory -- including 21 attorneys named to the list for the first time. Of the firm's listed attorneys, 12 have been considered a Best Lawyer in America for 10 years or more, another 9, for 20 years or more. Best Lawyers in America listings represent 79 specialties in all 50 states and Washington, DC., and is compiled through an exhaustive peer-review survey, developed and refined for nearly 25 years, in which thousands of the top lawyers in the U.S. confidentially evaluate their professional peers. Lawyers are not allowed to pay a fee to be listed. Best Lawyers publishes an advertisement-free book each year to honor all those chosen - something that no other survey does. The forthcoming 14th edition of Best Lawyers (2008) is based on nearly 2 million confidential evaluations by only the top attorneys in the country. Best Lawyers also conducted thousands of extensive telephone interviews with leading attorneys throughout its balloting process. Demonstrating that it continues to be an enlightened work environment for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community, law firm Morrison & Foerster LLP has again achieved a perfect 100-percent score on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index for 2007, earning the distinction of being one of the "Best Places to Work for GLBT Equality." Since 2003 the firm has received a perfect score every year, one of the few law firms to do so. This year 29 other law firms were rated at 100 percent (the trend is sharply upward - last year there were just 12). The average score among law firms surveyed was 88. With the realization that one of the best ways to attract high-quality employees is to offer a diverse and inclusive workplace, Morrison & Foerster is proud to set such a consistent example of equality and integrity in our industry. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) created its Corporate Equality Index to measure how completely company policies, including benefits, are made and applied without regard to the sexual preference, orientation, or expression of employees or customers. This year the HRC surveyed a total of 519 businesses in 29 industry sectors; law firms were drawn from the AmLaw 200. A total of 195 companies achieved perfect scores of 100, the HRC reports, up nearly 15-fold in the last five years. Demonstrating that it continues to be an enlightened work environment for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community, law firm Morrison & Foerster LLP has again achieved a perfect 100-percent score on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index for 2007, earning the distinction of being one of the "Best Places to Work for GLBT Equality." Since 2003 the firm has received a perfect score every year, one of the few law firms to do so. This year 29 other law firms were rated at 100 percent (the trend is sharply upward - last year there were just 12). The average score among law firms surveyed was 88. With the realization that one of the best ways to attract high-quality employees is to offer a diverse and inclusive workplace, Morrison & Foerster is proud to set such a consistent example of equality and integrity in our industry. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) created its Corporate Equality Index to measure how completely company policies, including benefits, are made and applied without regard to the sexual preference, orientation, or expression of employees or customers. This year the HRC surveyed a total of 519 businesses in 29 industry sectors; law firms were drawn from the AmLaw 200. A total of 195 companies achieved perfect scores of 100, the HRC reports, up nearly 15-fold in the last five years. http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1711 http://www.judged.com/jdfirmdetail.php?firmid=1711&page=37 Address : 1751 Pinnacle DriveSuite 500, Phone : 703-610-8686, City : McLean Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that the law firm ranked sixth out of 164 participating firms nationally in The American Lawyer's 2007 Midlevel Associates Survey. Lawyers across the country in their third through fifth years of practice completed the magazine's survey this spring with questions concerning satisfaction with the substance of work; relations with associates and partners; training and guidance; openness about finances and strategies; and the firm's attitude toward diversity. Since 2003, Miles & Stockbridge has consistently ranked among the top 6% of firms nationally as an overall place to work in The American Lawyer's surveys of midlevel associates, including a No. 2 ranking in 2004. Each year, the firm has ranked No. 1 in midlevel associate satisfaction among participating Baltimore law firms. "We are delighted that our midlevel associates have consistently placed Miles & Stockbridge at the top of this key ranking," said Randi Lewis, Miles & Stockbridge's Director of Diversity and Professional Development. "Miles & Stockbridge strives to provide our associates with rewarding professional opportunities that promote learning and teamwork in a client-focused environment." Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that the law firm ranked sixth out of 164 participating firms nationally in The American Lawyer's 2007 Midlevel Associates Survey. Lawyers across the country in their third through fifth years of practice completed the magazine's survey this spring with questions concerning satisfaction with the substance of work; relations with associates and partners; training and guidance; openness about finances and strategies; and the firm's attitude toward diversity. Since 2003, Miles & Stockbridge has consistently ranked among the top 6% of firms nationally as an overall place to work in The American Lawyer's surveys of midlevel associates, including a No. 2 ranking in 2004. Each year, the firm has ranked No. 1 in midlevel associate satisfaction among participating Baltimore law firms. "We are delighted that our midlevel associates have consistently placed Miles & Stockbridge at the top of this key ranking," said Randi Lewis, Miles & Stockbridge's Director of Diversity and Professional Development. "Miles & Stockbridge strives to provide our associates with rewarding professional opportunities that promote learning and teamwork in a client-focused environment." Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that it represented Baltimore-based architectural design firm RTKL Associates Inc. (RTKL) in its recent acquisition by ARCADIS N.V., an international consulting and engineering company headquartered in The Netherlands. "Miles & Stockbridge's primary focus was assisting RTKL in obtaining economic value commensurate with the company's financial success and global stature," said Charles Schelberg, a principal of the firm who helped structure and negotiate the transaction. Schelberg, who led the team of lawyers that represented RTKL, said, "We are confident that we have accomplished that for our client." Before the acquisition by ARCADIS, RTKL was a privately owned firm. The company had 2006 gross revenues of $195 million and net revenues of $142 million. With 1,100 professionals and support staff, RTKL provides architectural design, master planning and specialized engineering services from six U.S. offices in Baltimore, Washington, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami and from offices in London, Madrid, Shanghai and Tokyo. Miles & Stockbridge P.C. announced today that it represented Baltimore-based architectural design firm RTKL Associates Inc. (RTKL) in its recent acquisition by ARCADIS N.V., an international consulting and engineering company headquartered in The Netherlands. "Miles & Stockbridge's primary focus was assisting RTKL in obtaining economic value commensurate with the company's financial success and global stature," said Charles Schelberg, a principal of the firm who helped structure and negotiate the transaction. Schelberg, who led the team of lawyers that represented RTKL, said, "We are confident that we have accomplished that for our client." Before the acquisition by ARCADIS, RTKL was a privately owned firm. The company had 2006 gross revenues of $195 million and net revenues of $142 million. With 1,100 professionals and support staff, RTKL provides architectural design, master planning and specialized engineering services from six U.S. offices in Baltimore, Washington, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami and from offices in London, Madrid, Shanghai and Tokyo. Miles & Stockbridge P.C. is pleased to announce that it has been ranked one of the top firms in Maryland (Band 1) by Chambers USA for outstanding legal work in the area of labor & employment law. It also earned high marks (Band 2) in the areas of corporate/mergers and acquisitions; employee benefits and executive compensation; and litigation Law firms and individual attorneys are ranked by Chambers USA in bands from 1-6, with 1 being the best. The qualities on which rankings are assessed include technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by the client. Additionally, the following Miles & Stockbridge lawyers earned top honors: Band 1 - Edward Adkins in Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Band 1 - Kathleen Pontone in Labor & Employment Band 1 - Stephen Silvestri in Labor & Employment Band 2 - Steven Frenkil in Labor & Employment Band 2 - John Frisch in Corporate/M&A Band 2 - Thompson Webb in Corporate/M&A Band 3 - Anthony Kraus in Labor & Employment Stefan Jan Marculewicz was also listed as one of the top "up and coming" lawyers in the area of labor & employment law. ABOUT CHAMBERS USA The Chambers Guides, including Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business, list the top lawyers and law firms in 175 countries, providing independent rankings and editorial commentary. A team of more than 100 experienced Chambers researchers are dedicated to investigating the legal profession. They talk to clients and find out which law firms they use, in which practice areas and which individual lawyers are doing the work. Miles & Stockbridge P.C. is pleased to announce that it has been ranked one of the top firms in Maryland (Band 1) by Chambers USA for outstanding legal work in the area of labor & employment law. It also earned high marks (Band 2) in the areas of corporate/merge