LA'S LEGAL CLASS OF 2022 - Fisher Phillips
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BRANDED CONTENT M AY 16 , 2 02 2 LA’S LEGAL CLASS OF 2022 PLATINUM SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS Buchalter | CBRE | DLA Piper | Glaser Weil | Latham & Watkins | Miller Kaplan Nixon Peabody | Polsinelli | Thompson Coburn LLP 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 25 5/12/22 11:05 AM
26 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 Letter from the Publisher T he Los Angeles Business Journal was proud to host our Los Angeles legal professionals in two different ways moving forward, inaugural Top 100 Lawyers Awards event on the evening of this Top 100 Lawyers event and a Corporate Counsel Awards event May 12th at ASU California Center. This exciting event shone in October. the spotlight on the region’s outstanding legal community by The 100 lawyers listed throughout this section have demonstrated recognizing Los Angeles’ top 100 lawyers for their legal achievements, exceptional legal skill and achievements across the full spectrum of community involvement and impacts on the profession. In addition, responsibility, exemplary leadership and contributions to the Los we also presented several specialty awards to those who continue to Angeles community at large. excel in profession in unique and impactful ways. In the following pages we share biographical information on these Considering the fact that the Los Angeles region has long been legal thought leaders and shed some additional light on some of the known for its status as a hub for legal though leaders and record-setting premier examples of business law practitioners among us today. attorneys, being a standout in that field is particularly impressive. We hope you enjoy this special section, which contains some After 11 years, we at the Los Angeles Business Journal decided to unique insights on what exactly it means to be a leading attorney in restructure our Leaders in Law event. We will now honor our esteemed today’s business climate. Best regards, Josh Schimmels Publisher & CEO WE CONGRATULATE OUR ESTEEMED PARTNER Patricia L. Glaser LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL “TOP 100 LAWYER” AND “LEGAL EXCELLENCE (LIFETIME) SPECIALTY AWARD” RECIPIENT GLASERWEIL.COM 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 26 5/12/22 11:05 AM
MAY 16, 2022 CUSTOM CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 27 Baker McKenzie congratulates our Partner, Perrie M. Weiner, for being listed as one of the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Top 100 Lawyers. Partner in Charge of Baker McKenzie’s Los Angeles office and Chair of the Firm’s North America Securities Litigation Group We are proud of our Los Angeles office's growth from 4 to 40 lawyers. bakermckenzie.com 007-72_labj20220516_fullpages.indd 27 5/10/22 5:38 PM
28 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 ANGELA AGRUSA CLIFTON W. ALBRIGHT SEAN ANDRADE Managing Partner, Los Angeles; President and Founding Partner Partner Co-Chair, Commercial Litigation Group; Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC Andrade Gonzalez LLP Co-Chair, Food and Beverage Subsector C S DLA Piper lifton Albright is the president of Albright, Yee & ean Andrade, founding partner at Andrade Gon- Schmit. Based in downtown Los Angeles, Albright zalez, is well known for his ongoing representation D LA Piper partner Angela Agrusa handles high-stake specializes in labor and employment law. He was the of the nation’s second largest school district, Los matters that command headlines and shape legal first attorney to win a lawsuit against the Department of Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), playing a precedent. From Chipotle to T-Mobile, she has suc- Health and Human Services (DHHS) regarding its Pub- critical role in leading the District through the recent cessfully defended her clients in more than 50 putative lic Health Service Training Program. In December 2010 chapter of numerous difficult and complex, multi-plain- class actions with combined potential exposure of over and March 2014, President Barack Obama appointed tiff tort matters and the subsequent high-stakes efforts $100 billion in just the last five years alone, including Albright to the International Trade Advisory Commit- to obtain insurance coverage for those same multi-mil- Danone in first-of-its-kind impact litigation. Her track tee (ITAC 11). Albright was reappointed to (ITAC 9) lion litigations. He has led the defense in multi-plaintiff record has resulted in long-term partnerships with icon- in February 2018 by President Donald Trump. Albright cases and the plaintiff-side of the insurance recovery ic brands Danone, Hilton, Chipotle and Motel 6. is currently being considered for reappointment by Pres- efforts in cases involving hundreds of millions of dollars. Within DLA Piper, Agrusa serves as the managing ident Biden. Over the past nine years, Andrade represented partner of DLA Piper’s Los Angeles offices, helping A sought-after speaker, Albright conducts continu- LAUSD in the Miramonte Litigation – the largest sex- grow the firm’s presence in the market. She serves as ing education programs for attorneys, executives, and ual abuse litigation ever facing a K-12 public school sys- co-chair of the firm’s Business and Commercial Litiga- employees in such areas as employment and labor law, tem – and other major, multi-plaintiff cases. Also, over tion sub-practice and its Food and Beverage subsector. business management, and complex litigation. The this past year and despite the impact of the COVID-19 She is hired to defend clients in bet-the-brand litigation National Institute of Trial Advocacy awarded Albright pandemic, Andrade and his team were able to resolve and in cases where unique legal theories are advanced a diploma and a master’s degree in its Master Advocates 100 potential claims for the City of Santa Monica. or when the court of public opinion threatens to over- Program. He is licensed to practice before United States power justice in the courtroom. Supreme Court. ANDREW APFELBERG RYAN BAKER ADAM BASS Partner Managing Partner Shareholder, President and Chief Executive Officer Greenberg Glusker LLP Waymaker LLP Buchalter A O A ndrew Apfelberg, a partner at Greenberg Glusker ne of California’s elite trial and appellate lawyers, dam Bass is the president and chief executive officer LLP, is a corporate and finance attorney for mid- Waymaker LLP co-managing and founding partner of Buchalter. Bass joined the Firm in 1993 and after dle-market companies throughout the United Ryan Baker regularly wins trial verdicts and appeals 20 years became president and CEO in January of States. He often acts as outside general counsel to his in high-stakes cases. A skilled litigator and trial lawyer 2013. Under his leadership, Buchalter has experienced clients, providing advice on a business’ significant trans- who often deals with cases involving intellectual prop- substantial growth and opened six new office locations actions, whether it’s a merger or acquisition, private erty and innovative or disruptive technology, Baker in Napa Valley, Sacramento, Seattle, San Diego, Port- equity or other financing, joint venture or licensing has built Waymaker (formerly Baker Marquart LLP) land, and Salt Lake City. deal. He has a considerable depth of experience in the into one of the nation’s premiere trial and litigation As chair of the Family Office & Wealth Manage- branded consumer products, manufacturing & distribu- boutiques. The firm regularly handles litigation at the ment Practice Group and co-chair of the Social Media tion, new media and technology industries. intersection of innovative technology and complex Influencers Industry Group, Bass’ practice includes the Apfelberg’s strong business and finance background legal issues and Baker himself has a stellar record of representation of companies of all sizes and financial results from his education from USC’s Marshall School achievement at both trials and appeals in intellectual institutions in both transactional and litigation matters. of Business and from working in investment banking property cases. He is often called upon to handle general business mat- prior to going to law school. This experience enables In particular, Baker is known for presenting argu- ters for his corporate clients. Further, his areas of exper- him to more effectively structure transactions and nego- ments in a clear, elegant, persuasive manner in his rep- tise include regulatory matters at the local, state, and tiate agreements to maximize the value to the client resentation of industry innovators. Baker has tried cases federal levels, as well as government procurement. His and increase the likelihood of getting the deal closed. and argued motions in state and federal courts across experience includes corporate, loan workouts, creditors’ He is the former president of the Association of Corpo- the country and has appeared in the courtrooms of no rights, real property, labor relations, public contracting rate Growth Los Angeles chapter. fewer than 15 states. and regulatory compliance. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 28 5/12/22 11:05 AM
MAY 16, 2022 CUSTOM CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 29 Congratulations ALISON L. PLESSMAN Top 100 Lawyers —Los Angeles Business Journal HUESTON.COM 007-72_labj20220516_fullpages.indd 29 5/10/22 5:01 PM
30 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 STEPHANIE BLUM PHILIP BONOLI ERICA BOSE Partner Co-Managing Partner Partner Reuben, Raucher & Blum PC BG Law Cox, Castle & Nicholson S P E tephanie Blum, a certified family law specialist who hilip Bonoli of BG Law is a seasoned litigator with rica Bose has built a reputation in California for has practiced exclusively in the area of family law extensive experience in a wide array of employment representing developers of all sizes, as well as various for 25 years, supports those who face the turmoil, matters, including wrongful discharge, discrimi- equity providers, in connection with their acquisi- uncertainty and challenges of divorce. Though her first nation and harassment, tort claims, and contractual tion, disposition, and development of real estate assets. preference is always to mediate spousal, financial and matters. As the co-managing partner of BG Law, he is She has carved out a niche over the last 20 years repre- custody issues, Blum is also a fierce and relentless oppo- involved in the day-to-day administration of the firm. senting capital providers and to a lesser degree, builders, nent in a court of law. As part of his duties and responsibilities, he is required in the land bank financing arena and homebuilders in Blum regularly speaks before professional organiza- to ensure that there is open communication between their acquisition of properties. tions on various aspects of family law. She has frequent- management, attorneys and staff to allow for the effi- Bose started representing clients in land bank ly appeared on radio and television shows and has been cient operation of the firm and its business. finance transactions both inside and outside of Califor- featured and quoted in online and print publications. Bonoli has been a litigator his entire career and nia back in 2002. Since then, the land banking industry She also co-authored the book “Divorce and Finances: has appeared before many state, federal and appellate has gained widespread popularity homebuilders, many Know your Rights Clearly and Quickly.” Blum is active court judges in all facets of litigation – trial, oral argu- of which are gravitating towards a “land light” business in her profession and the community, serving on the ment and/or evidentiary hearings. He has been lead model in which the builder does not hold legal title to Executive Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar trial attorney in jury trials, has argued cases before the land during the horizontal development stage of home- Association’s Family Law Section and a long-time sup- California Courts of Appeal, and has argued before building. This trend has allowed some of the nation’s porter of the Harriett Buhai Center for Family Law. the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Bonoli has always largest homebuilders to significantly increase their out- persevered through all of the difficult and stressful situa- put, and Bose has been extensively involved in facilitat- tions associated with these cases. ing many of these transactions. BRAD BRIAN JOSHUA BRIONES ALEXANDER CALFO Chair and Partner Managing Member Partner Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP Mintz King & Spalding L J A eadership through crises is a recurring theme in Brad oshua Briones is a son of immigrant farm workers lexander Calfo is a national trial lawyer who has D. Brian’s career. Undeterred by difficulties, he guides who came to the US from Mexico to work in the received numerous accolades and awards for his his clients through some of the most challenging fields of Northern California. His hard work ethic at verdicts on behalf of Fortune 100 companies in the legal issues of the day. The lasting impacts of his leader- an early age was the fuel that helped him succeed later pharmaceutical, medical device, automotive, toxic tort ship transcend client work, effecting positive change on in life. Today Briones is managing member of Mintz’s and heavy industry sectors in national multi-district the world and the next generation of lawyers. Los Angeles office and serves on the firm’s Policy litigation and statewide coordinated proceedings. Calfo As the first elected chair of Munger, Tolles & Olson Committee. Briones has received awards and national has been awarded five of the Top 10 winning first-chair and one of the nation’s most accomplished trial lawyers, recognition for his innovative approach to the defense trial verdicts in California by The Daily Journal. His Brian is frequently retained to represent high-profile of bet-the-company litigation. verdicts have also been named Top 5 nationally by Lex- companies in their most difficult lawsuits and inves- Briones has represented clients in such industries as isNexis, and Courtroom View Network recently named tigations. Known as a “lawyer’s lawyer,” he regularly financial services, building products, retail, pharmaceu- another high-profile national verdict as the “Number represents leading law firms facing complex claims that ticals, automotive, professional sports, food and bever- One Impressive Defense Victory in the United States.” threaten severe financial and reputational consequenc- age, petroleum, chemical manufacturing, health care, Calfo was one of the first partners to join King & es. Client service is at the forefront of everything Brian high technology, and higher education. He frequently Spalding’s Los Angeles office, and has been instrumen- does. He has sustained a career as a top trial lawyers publishes and lectures before national and local bar tal in building the firm’s reputation as a West Coast trial because he goes beyond the typical outside counsel, and industry organizations. Briones has served as lead powerhouse. The bulk of his current work is comprised becoming fully immersed in his clients’ teams and meet- defense counsel on over 550 alleged nationwide class of serving as a lead counsel for Johnson & Johnson in ing their needs as a true business partner. actions in state and federal courts across the country, connection with claims pertaining to talcum-based including many filed in the most plaintiff-friendly juris- products. dictions. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 30 5/12/22 11:05 AM
MAY 16, 2022 CUSTOM CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 31 Congratulations to Brad D. Brian Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP congratulates our Firm Chair, Brad D. Brian, for being recognized in the Los Angeles Business Journal's inaugural Top 100 Lawyers list. With a litigation career spanning four decades, Brad has partnered with numerous Los Angeles-based companies in multi-billion dollar trials that have shaped entire industries. Brad's unwavering focus on excellence has established him as one of the leading trial lawyers in the country. Beyond his courtroom victories, Brad is a trusted leader, supportive mentor, and a major impact player in our community. www.mto.com LOS ANGELES I SAN FRANCISCO I WASHINGTON, D.C. Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP I Brad D. Brian I 350 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90071 I Attorney Advertising I For further information, please visit www.mto.com. Please note past results are not guarantees of future results and each matter depends on the unique circumstances of each. 007-72_labj20220516_fullpages.indd 31 5/9/22 6:01 PM
32 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 DAN CLIVNER NANCY SHER COHEN KANIKA CORLEY Managing Partner Partner in Charge Partner Sidley Austin LLP Lathrop GPM LLP Akerman LLP D N K an Clivner is a global leader at Sidley Austin. He ancy Sher Cohen is the partner in charge of the anika Corley has a broad-based commercial litigation, is managing partner of the firm’s 140-lawyer Los Lathrop GPM Los Angeles office, a firm Executive entertainment, and emerging technology practice. Angeles offices, among the top 10 in Los Angeles, Committee member and an Insurance Recovery Through her many years practicing law, she has and he also guides the direction of the firm interna- & Counseling Practice Group leader. Lathrop GPM worked with and provided legal assistance for a wide tionally as a member of its Executive Committee and (formerly Lathrop Gage) recruited Cohen in late 2017 array of clients including print, digital and television co-leader of the firm’s 390-lawyer global M&A and Pri- seeking the right individual to rejuvenate and bring media companies; landowners and real estate develop- vate Equity group. He achieves this while maintaining a local visibility to its Los Angeles office and national ers; advertising agencies; boutique hotels; footwear and prolific and influential practice. visibility to its insurance recovery work. Cohen helped apparel designers and manufacturers; professional ath- As a leader, Clivner holds the distinction of opening build the Los Angeles office from two lawyers to 15 letes; restaurant chains; software developers; musicians, offices in Century City (both for Sidley and previously and catapulted the firm’s policyholder capabilities and writers and other creatives; and wine manufacturers, for Simpson Thacher). In the past five years, he has profile to a new level, now one of the largest practice among others. elevated the firm’s global M&A/Private Equity practice groups in the United States representing policyholders. Clients turn to Corley for strategic counsel and risk from 40th place to 8th place nationally in Bloomberg’s A lawyer of 40-plus years, Cohen entered the legal assessment when contemplating major business decisions, rankings by deal value. His leadership was crucial world when the glass ceiling was still very much intact, including protecting their assets and brand – including during recent events. He helped guide the firm through especially in litigation departments. She often stood name, image, and likeness – anticipated litigation, and the pandemic and gave voice to the concerns of lawyers alone as a sole female on large teams, but that has never intellectual property issues involving trademarks and dealing with the stresses of COVID-19 and its impact stopped her. She continues to litigate cases for signifi- copyrights for names, logos, and slogans or catchphrases. on the legal profession. cant companies on precedent-setting matters. She has extensive experience advocating for the rights of her clients through arbitration and trial, assisting with appeals, advising on best methods for dispute resolution, advising on deal terms and business structures, and man- aging rights acquisitions. EVA DAVIS PAUL de BERNIER MIKE De VRIES Chair, Transactions Department Partner; Office Practice Leader in Los Angeles for Partner Winston & Strawn LLP Corporate & Securities Practice; Co-Chair of India Practice Kirkland & Ellis LLP Mayer Brown LLP E A va Davis focuses her practice on United States and t the forefront of the evolution of IP litigation P cross-border complex business transactions with a aul de Bernier is the office practice leader in Los legal work, Mike De Vries leads the legal industry particular focus on mergers and acquisitions and pri- Angeles for Mayer Brown’s Corporate & Securities in high-stake competitor cases – as evidenced by vate equity. Her expertise lies in market trends and deal practice, co-chair of the firm’s India practice, US his string of successful outcomes over the last two terms in the middle market – while taking a commercial contact for its media/entertainment practice and an years. During this time, De Vries has secured over $2 approach to transactions and navigating clients through active member of its East Asia and Healthcare/Life Sci- billion in verdicts and settlements representing clients changing landscapes. As an advisor to both strategics ences practices. like Motorola, TriZetto, LivePerson, EagleView and and private equity funds and their portfolio companies, Upon law school graduation in 1999, de Bernier APCON in major trials held throughout the US while Davis anticipates the arguments (and counterargu- joined Mayer Brown’s LA office as one of the early also navigating courtroom protocols designed to keep ments) that each party to a transaction will likely pur- members of the firm’s LA corporate practice. He relo- courtroom participants safe during the pandemic. The sue, and thus can position clients to get the best deal cated to the London office in 2004, where he worked results achieved by De Vries and his team will influence terms. Typical transaction sizes in her purview range on US M&A matters and in turn led the firm’s US IP protection strategies in future litigations for years to from $50 million to over $1.0 billion. Desk in London (doing US/cross-border M&A and cap- come, and will guide the adaptation of trial advocacy in Davis’ industry expertise and impressive list of cur- ital markets). In 2011, he returned to the LA office to technology disputes during the ongoing pandemic. rent clients include consumer products, with a partic- expand the California corporate practice, cross-border Additionally, as IP litigation continues to become ular focus on “better-for-you” brands, food & beverage, capabilities, client roster and bottom line. His broad more high-stakes due to the growing importance of personal care, pet, and health brands; technology, from M&A and securities practice includes working on technology and the need to protect businesses’ inno- software to semiconductor; industrials/manufacturing, dozens of innovative and complex deals, involving mul- vations, De Vries and team are likely to be busier than with a particular focus on aerospace & defense; and tiple jurisdictions and in evolving and emerging areas, ever. business services. including tech, media/entertainment and ESG. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 32 5/12/22 11:05 AM
MAY 16, 2022 CUSTOM CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 33 We see dimensions others can’t from perspectives others don’t. CBRE’s Law Firm Practice Group has an unmatched track record and expertise to help you navigate your real estate needs. • What is the role of the office moving forward? • How can your offices enhance your ability to recruit and retain new talent? • What is your ideal real estate footprint? • How much space do you need in a more hybrid work environment? • Where is the real estate market headed? • How can your space address the evolving generational shift in your firm? You have questions. We have answers. We work in every dimension of real estate with law firms. Our mission is to minimize firms’ real estate spend while maximizing its impact for attorneys by helping to create the real estate solutions of the future. Contact us for strategic insight in an evolving legal landscape. Andrew Ratner Executive Managing Director +1 213 300 6119 andrew.ratner@cbre.com Learn more at cbre.com 007-72_labj20220516_fullpages.indd 33 5/6/22 1:03 PM
34 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 WILLIAM DELGADO RENÉE DELPHIN-RODRIGUEZ DAVID deRUBERTIS Managing Partner Partner Founder and Principal Attorney DTO Law Crowell & Moring LLP The deRubertis Law Firm APC W R D illiam Delgado, managing partner of minori- enée Delphin-Rodriguez is a partner in Crowell & avid deRubertis heads one of Los Angeles’ leading ty-owned law firm DTO Law, which he co-found- Moring’s Los Angeles office and a member of its boutique contingency-fee trial law firms, handling ed in 2019, is a relentless litigator focused on Corporate and Health Care groups. Her practice employment disputes on behalf of employees, cat- superior results. He approaches litigation with a clear focuses on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, astrophic personal injury and wrongful death matters, focus: win, as fast as possible. To do that, he dives into equity and debt financing, corporate governance, and contingency business litigation, consumer class actions his clients’ business so that he has a clear understanding complex commercial agreements. Her clients span a and insurance bad faith matters. of what matters, what doesn’t, what creates leverage, wide range of industries (with a particular emphasis on During the last few years, deRubertis has been lead and what triggers a successful outcome. companies within the health care industry). counsel in single-plaintiff employment settlements Delgado did not inherit a book of business from a Delphin-Rodriguez has experience representing totaling well over $55 million, with an average settle- retiring partner; rather, he built his book of business special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) sponsors, ment of over $2 million for individual employment from scratch, relying on the same tenacity that fueled investors and underwriters in initial public offerings cases. He is also a leader in class action recoveries. him throughout his early years. His book has grown year (IPOs) and business combinations (deSPACs). She also deRubertis has continued to secure sizeable confidential after year in the class action, commercial litigation, and advises large corporations on a variety of significant pre-litigation resolution in matters such as #metoo cases intellectual property arenas. Not only does he contin- M&A and other strategic corporate transactions. She or high-level-executive whistleblowing cases. He has ue to represent major clients, he is representing them regularly assists public and private corporations on cor- also continued his aggressive pursuit of changing the in significant matters such as his work for American porate governance, compliance, and general corporate workplace for the better for AT&T and Walmart work- Honda in both a patent case and in four major class matters. Delphin-Rodriguez has a unique blend of law ers. In one of his most high-profile cases, he represented actions. firm and in-house experience. She served as assistant Oscar-winning actress and famed comedian Mo’Nique general counsel to a Fortune 500 health care company in her quest for equal pay against Netflix. and general counsel to a health care management ser- vices organization. ERIC EARLY DAVID EISMAN THEANE EVANGELIS Founding and Managing Partner Partner; Head of Los Angeles Corporate Partner and Co-Chair of the Litigation Practice Group Early Sullivan Wright Gizer & McRae LLP and Global Entertainment Group Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP E T ric Early, founding and managing partner of Early heane Evangelis has spent close to 20 years honing a D Sullivan Wright Gizer & McRae LLP, has earned a avid Eisman is the newly appointed head of Skad- practice that has positioned her as one of the coun- national reputation for his representation of Fortune den’s Los Angeles Corporate Group, reflecting his try’s leading appellate, employment, class action, 500 companies, small business entrepreneurs and indi- many contributions to its rise in prominence on and general commercial litigation lawyers. She serves viduals around America, and has built one of the best the West Coast over the last more than 25 years. Eis- as co-chair of Gibson Dunn’s global Litigation Practice and most respected boutique law firms in the nation. He man also continues to be the head of Skadden’s global Group and previously served as co-chair of the firm’s is one of the go-to attorneys for all of the major nation- Entertainment Group, which has been at the forefront Class Actions Practice Group. al title insurance companies including Fidelity National of some of the most impactful deals in the industry Evangelis has played a lead role in a wide range of Financial, First American Title Insurance Company, in recent years. He is known for his representation of high-profile, groundbreaking litigation matters and and Stewart Title. entertainment companies in all segments of the market, has been a leading lawyer who has helped shaped how Early is leading what many consider one of the most particularly in high stakes matters where a delicate bal- companies serving the “gig economy” operate. As the important defamation lawsuits in the nation currently ance of business and legal issues is required. achievements highlighted in this submission showcase, pending in Federal Court in West Virginia, and led the In 2021, Eisman led and successfully led numerous Evangelis has emerged as a go-to class action lawyer for first lawsuit in the nation filed four years ago against high profile corporate transactions and he has been on businesses whose business models are under attack. In what is now commonly known as critical race theory. the leading edge of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and these instances, the stakes couldn’t be higher for these He is currently lead counsel representing former coal innovative transaction structures. Eisman has also been clients. Evangelis’ recently secured a landmark arbi- baron and West Virginia Senatorial Candidate, Don a prolific dealmaker and has been involved in some of tration ruling for Uber and also secured the reversal of Blankenship, in a high-profile defamation case. the most significant transactions over the past several a record-setting $102 million judgment in an employ- years. ment class action and PAGA case. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 34 5/12/22 11:06 AM
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36 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 ANITA FAMILI VINCE FARHAT MILES FELDMAN Leader of Real Estate Transactions and Finance Practice; Partner; Chair of the White Collar Defense & Investigations Group Founder & Partner Leader of Cannabis and CBD Practice Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP Raines Feldman Manatt, Phelps & Phillips V M ince Farhat represents companies and individuals in iles Feldman is a founding partner of Raines Feld- T he leader of Manatt’s Real Estate Transactions and criminal and civil investigations, corporate internal man LLP and is the chair of the Trials, Litigation Finance practice, Anita Famili is one of the nation’s investigations, and complex federal court litigation. and Dispute Resolution department of the firm. A go-to advisors for owners, operators, lenders, develop- His clients include licensed healthcare professionals, seasoned trial lawyer, Feldman has over two decades of ers and investors looking to complete financing, devel- healthcare companies, publicly-traded and privately-held experience handling hard fought and often high-profile opment, leasing and investment-related transactions. financial services companies, non-profits, construction cases through trial and appeal, as well as in numerous Anita is a trusted partner for clients across the gamut of companies, consulting firms, government contractors, arbitration forums. Prior to launching Raines Feldman, industries – including energy, retail and cannabis – as and import and export companies. Farhat assists clients he was a partner with two of Los Angeles’ most promi- they assemble, lead and manage major real estate trans- with corporate internal investigations, government nent business litigation firms. actions. She is especially well-known for helping her investigations, parallel investigations, healthcare fraud Feldman regularly gets results in cutting-edge litiga- clients navigate complex transactions that require them investigations, FDA enforcement defense, False Claim tion disputes for business leaders in technology, media to coordinate and collaborate with other legal experts, Act defense, Civil RICO defense, affirmative enforce- and finance, such as Belkin International, MedMen, third-party operators, vendors, outside managers, devel- ment matters, AML/BSA compliance and supply chain United Talent Agency, Julien’s Auctions, Haymaker opers and consultants. compliance. Content, Twentieth Century Fox Television, FilmTools Famili regularly guides REITs, national retail grocers, Farhat served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the and Westwood Financial Corporation. Feldman was the public utilities, and other commercial developers and Major Frauds section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. In architect of several landmark cases that changed prac- owners/users in acquiring, entitling, developing, leasing, that position, he investigated and prosecuted white-col- tices in the entertainment industry and corporate law. building, financing, deleveraging and joint venturing lar crimes, including healthcare fraud, bank fraud, wire The cases involved California’s seven-year employment property across the United States. She has extensive fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and money laundering. While rule, copyright fair use, the Talent Agency Act, and the experience in secured and unsecured financings, lever- in Major Frauds, Vince served as the criminal healthcare descendability of rights and publicity. aged acquisitions, complex subordination and intercredi- coordinator for the Central District of California. He tor arrangements, letters of credit, and perfecting security served in both the Criminal and Civil Divisions of the interests in collateral. U.S. Attorney’s Office. TERRENCE FRANKLIN ALBERT GIANG PATRICIA GLASER Partner Partner Partner and Chair of the Litigation Department Sacks, Glazier, Franklin & Lodise LLP King & Spalding Glaser Weil LLP W A G ith over three decades of experience handling lbert Giang’s practice blends class action defense, laser Weil’s Patricia Glaser is a partner and chair of some of the most significant and complex trusts regulatory investigations and enforcement, and the firm’s Litigation Department. She has long served and estates disputes, Terrence Franklin is regard- crisis management for public companies and tech as one of the entertainment industry’s preeminent ed as one of the top litigators in the U.S. by clients disruptors, particularly those facing litigation or govern- trial lawyers – a leading attorney for studios, production and colleagues. He is responsible for several published ment scrutiny over their worker classification models in companies, creative executives and A-list celebrities appeals and the landmark Moeller v. Superior Court the wake of the California Supreme Court’s Dynamex who need to solve their issues through negotiation or case, which was brought before the California Supreme decision, AB5, and Proposition 22. litigation. Glaser’s clients include Fortune 500 compa- Court and established a fiduciary exception to the Giang’s leadership on cutting-edge employment nies, major studios, real estate investors and developers, attorney-client privilege for successor trustees. issues is evidenced by an enviable roster of gig economy financial institutions and high-profile entertainers and While Franklin is well-known in the legal commu- clients like Lyft, Postmates (for whom he defeated its public figures. nity for his trusts and estates expertise, he is equally first COVID class action), and Instawork (for whom he Glaser is consistently ranked as one of California’s top renowned for his commitment to furthering the serves as strategy counsel on PAGA and employment business trial attorneys. Chambers and Partners describes advancement of minority lawyers. As a gay, African litigation); other innovative startups (whom he advises her as a “trial icon” and gives her top California rankings American lawyer, Franklin works tirelessly to bring on confidential business modeling or governmental in General Commercial Litigation and Media & Enter- awareness and educate others about the importance of inquiries); and major corporations (for whom he serves tainment Litigation. Benchmark Litigation identifies diversity and inclusion. He holds countless leadership as national strategy counsel on employment issues). He Glaser among the “Top 20 Trial Lawyers California,” positions in organizations which impact the law and is a core member of King & Spalding’s innovative Glob- “Top 100 Trial Lawyers,” and “Top 250 Women Litiga- support his mission to “Help Bend the Arc of History al Human Capital and Compliance practice, leading the tors.” Glaser serves on the board of directors of several Towards Justice.” practice’s notable growth with gig economy companies arts organizations, including the Los Angeles Music Cen- and disruptive startups. ter Theatre Group and The Geffen Playhouse. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 36 5/12/22 11:06 AM
MAY 16, 2022 CUSTOM CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 37 CONGRATULATES SANFORD MICHELMAN our co-founder and Top 100 Lawyer as designated by the Los Angeles Business Journal. M&R is the most influential and in demand law firm of its kind, where bona fide industry expertise meets unsurpassed advisory and practice area know-how. Los Angeles | Orange County | San Francisco | Dallas | Houston | Chicago | New York 310.299.5500 www.mrllp.com 007-72_labj20220516_fullpages.indd 37 5/10/22 10:37 AM
38 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 CHRISTINA N. GOODRICH DAVID GRAELER DEMETRIA L. GRAVES Partner Chair, Litigation Department; Co-Chair, Real Estate Group Founding & Managing Partner and Certified Family Law Specialist K&L Gates LLP Nossaman The Graves Law Firm C D C hristina Goodrich is an intellectual property litigator avid Graeler serves as chair of Nossaman’s Litigation ertified family law specialist Demetria Graves in the Los Angeles office of K&L Gates LLP – a Department and co-chair of its Real Estate Group. opened her own family law practice, The Graves fully-integrated full service global law firm. She has With more than 20 years of litigation and trial Law Firm, at the age of 25, just six months out of law experience litigating complex civil cases in federal trial experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants, school. She has offices in both Pasadena and Beverly and appellate courts across the nation. Goodrich has Graeler excels at partnering with his clients to identify Hills and is today considered a leading family law attor- trial experience in the International Trade Commis- goals and to develop and execute winning strategies ney and has received many accolades for her dedication sion on a large patent infringement case and first chair to effectively resolve complex business disputes inside to the field of family law as well as to the community. arbitration experience in a complex and lengthy action and outside the courtroom. Through the development Graves hosts a podcast, “Legally Uncensored with in which she and her team secured a complete defense of his civil trial practice, Graeler has honed his ability Attorney Demetria L. Graves‚” available on Apple Pod- verdict. to communicate and connect with judges and juries, as cast, addressing family law-related topics. In addition, Goodrich has consistently held numerous import- well as with clients, witnesses and other attorneys. Graves wrote and released a book in 2021 titled, “When ant leadership roles at the firm over the past ten years, Graeler strives to learn and understand his client’s Women Run the Firm: How to Successfully Launch and including Intellectual Property Litigation Practice business objectives, key issues and goals in order to Manage Your Law Practice with Confidence‚” which Group coordinator, co-chair of the Los Angeles Women develop a tailored strategy and obtain the best possible was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Graves currently in the Profession committee, member of the firmwide result. His track record of success in high stakes litiga- serves as the secretary of the Family Law Executive Women in the Profession committee, inaugural member tion in federal and state courts has earned him numer- Committee with the California Lawyers Association and co-chair of the Global Associate Liaison Commit- ous awards and accolades, including a California Lawyer (vice-chair as of September 2021). tee, member of the firmwide Idea Group (which focuses Attorney of the Year Award for litigation. on innovation at the firm), and co-chair of the Los Angeles Associates Group. JORDAN HAMBURGER MIRA HASHMALL GARY HECKER Co-Head of Healthcare M&A Partner Managing Partner Sheppard Mulllin Miller Barondess, LLP Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP J M G ordan Hamburger, Sheppard Mulllin’s co-head of ira Hashmall is an accomplished litigator and trial ary Hecker has more than 40 years of legal expe- Healthcare M&A, is a lead attorney and project attorney who specializes in labor and employment. rience in technology and entertainment law in manager focusing on healthcare and financial services She is sought out to defend private and public the Los Angeles market. He began his career as a industry transactions, private equity representation and employers in high stakes litigation involving claims of power systems engineer before attending law school at sell-side M&A engagements. He has additional expertise harassment, discrimination, retaliation, wage and hour, the University of San Diego School of Law. His engi- advising public companies with capital markets offerings, wrongful termination, disability discrimination and neering background combined with his love for enter- SEC periodic reporting, NYSE and NASDAQ compli- accommodation, and family and medical leave rights. tainment positioned Hecker for a dynamic legal career ance and corporate governance matters. She was named Employment Lawyer of the Year 2021 during which he has had the privilege of representing Hamburger’s practice focuses on corporate and by the Century City Bar Association. many of the nation’s leading technology companies in securities matters, including mergers and acquisitions, In a ruling recognized as a Daily Journal Top Defense patent, trademark, and copyright law, as well as celebri- public and private securities offerings and other general Verdict in 2020, Hashmall won summary judgment on ties and entertainment clients. corporate representation. He represents private equity behalf of the County of Los Angeles in a FLSA class Throughout his legal career, Hecker has been known firms, corporations, entrepreneurs, and other market par- action lawsuit relating to the State of California’s IHSS as the tech-savvy, go-to lawyer for the businesses of ticipants in the healthcare and financial services indus- program, in which plaintiffs sought nearly $50 million. well-known technology and entertainment leaders in tries, among others. Additionally, Hamburger advises Also, In December 2021, Hashmall won a summary the California region, including luminaries such as public and private companies on corporate governance judgment on behalf of the County of Los Angeles in Steve Jobs, Steven Spielberg, Mark Burnett, and Maria matters, and represents public companies in connection an action filed by an employee against the County Shriver. He also testified twice on behalf of Apple with securities law compliance and reporting, including and other employees and supervisors employee by the before the U.S. House of Representatives. compliance with NASDAQ and NYSE listing standards. County. Hamburger also volunteers at the Veterans Free Legal Clinic, offering free legal and practical advice to Veterans in the Haven and New Directions programs. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 38 5/12/22 11:06 AM
MAY 16, 2022 CUSTOM CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 39 007-72_labj20220516_fullpages.indd 39 5/10/22 10:36 AM
40 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 JANE HINTON CRAIG HOLDEN MARK HOLSCHER Partner Partner Partner Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP Lewis Brisbois Kirkland & Ellis LLP A C M s a partner in the Los Angeles office of Hunton raig Holden is a dedicated, accomplished leader both ark Holscher has a diverse national litigation Andrews Kurth on the Capital Finance & Real within Lewis Brisbois and in the legal industry as practice with an emphasis on complex commercial Estate Team, Jane Hinton brings a broad range of a whole. He serves as a national co-chair of Lewis matters. Described by his clients as “go-to litigator experience to commercial real estate and finance trans- Brisbois’ Complex Business & Commercial Litigation for tough matters,” Holscher represents clients across actions, representing investors, financial institutions, and White Collar Defense Practices. In addition, he the U.S. and abroad in their most significant litigation investment funds, and other clients in single-asset and serves as vice-chair of the firm’s Government Relations ranging from securities litigation and white-collar and portfolio transactions. She focuses on highly structured Practice. In these roles, Holden consistently delivers regulatory investigations, to trade secret and high-pro- debt and equity real estate transactions, with responsive the highest level of service to firm clients and success- file employment disputes. transaction management and timely execution. She fully achieves their business objectives, while serving as Holscher’s clients range from entertainment and maintains a nationwide 360-degree practice in real a trusted mentor and advisor to his colleagues and more media companies to hospitality companies, real estate estate law that includes leasing, acquisitions, disposi- junior attorneys. developers, defense manufacturers, private equity firms, tions, joint ventures and lending throughout the capital A skilled first-chair trial attorney, Holden manages hedge funds, and other major financial institutions. stack, such as mortgage, mezzanine and preferred equity a wide range of domestic and international commercial A nationally recognized trial attorney, Holscher is financing. matters, with an emphasis on litigation, trials, and branded a board-level strategist skilled in taking on the A significant portion of the firm clients Hinton arbitrations involving complex and contested business FBI, Department of Justice, Securities and Exchange represents are composed of alternative or non-bank transactions, intellectual property, unfair competition, Commission, along with other state and national reg- lenders, which have found opportunity and transaction entertainment, investment, and high-stakes disputes. ulatory agencies, and obtaining outcomes that others volume due to the ongoing market conditions and the His clients range broadly from multinational companies thought impossible. With particular experience with evolving regulatory environment. Hinton also works to and entrepreneurs to entertainment companies and bet-the-company cases, Holscher has been an elite liti- expand the firm’s real estate client base and support the businesses of sovereign Indian nations. gator for more than 30 years, leading Kirkland & Ellis’ firm’s existing clients. California commercial litigation group. MELANIE HOWARD NICKY JATANA ROY JIMENEZ Chair, Intellectual Property Protection; Chair, Luxury Brands; Office Managing Principal Partner Deputy Chair, Advanced Media and Technology Jackson Lewis TLD Law Loeb & Loeb N R icky Jatana is a principal in the Los Angeles oy Jimenez, a partner at TLD Law since 2006, has W hen iconic brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, Canada office of Jackson Lewis P.C. Her practice focuses over 25 years of experience in business and real Goose, and The Gap, and celebrity personalities on employment litigation, as well as on advising estate litigation. Jimenez has extensive experience like Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins, need to protect and employers regarding daily workplace issues. Jatana has in resolving or litigating large, small, and complex busi- monetize their intellectual property assets, they turn to experience with litigation involving wrongful termina- ness disputes involving collections, breach of contract, Melanie Howard, chair of Loeb & Loeb’s Intellectual tion, discrimination, harassment, breach of contract, unfair competition, fraud, intellectual property disputes, Property Protection; and chair of the firm’s Luxury wage and hour, preventive advice and training, and ownership & partnership disputes, shareholder disputes, Brands practices. Howard’s business-savvy guidance is other labor and employment-related matters. She has purchase and sale disputes, unfair business practices, trusted by her clients in connection with complex intel- litigated numerous wage and hour class and multi-plain- misappropriation of trade secrets, and other business lectual property transactions, advertising and marketing tiff actions, has trial experience and is a member of the torts. matters, and privacy and data security issues. firm’s national Trial Team. She has represented employ- Jimenez is successful in economically and favorably Howard is sought after for her practical approach. ers in the retail, restaurant, manufacturing, pharmaceu- settling real estate disputes affecting title, transfer, and As demonstrated by her clientele, Howard has expertise tical, tech, entertainment, transportation, and banking use of real property, and in lending issues. In this capac- in luxury fashion, but her range of experience spans industries, among others. ity he works with agents, buyers, sellers, lenders and numerous industries, including beauty and wellness, Jatana conducts training seminars and frequently escrow officers. Jimenez consults and provides general entertainment and media, and Web3. She has served speaks publicly on a multitude of employment law counsel services to financial institutions, medical prac- as lead counsel in on a number of matters, including topics. Her experience includes handling employment tices, entertainment, retail, distribution, manufacturing representing Kobe Bryant’s estate in the filing of federal matters from both in-house counsel and outside counsel and national packaging and packaging-related business- trademark applications for virtual and digital goods to perspectives. She practices in both state and federal es. He enjoys the competitive and fast-paced nature of protect Bryant’s name and brand in the metaverse. court and also before such tribunals as the United civil litigation. He strives to reach successful results in States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. the most cost-efficient manner for each client. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 40 5/12/22 11:06 AM
MAY 16, 2022 BRANDED CONTENT – LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL 41 CARY JONES ASHLEY JORDAN ROLAND JUAREZ Managing Partner, Los Angeles Partner Partner Snell & Wilmer Reed Smith LLP Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP C L R ary D. Jones is the managing partner at Snell & os Angeles-based Reed Smith LLP partner Ashley oland Juarez is known for handling high-stakes labor Wilmer. He draws upon his over 30 years of exten- Jordan has a proven record of maximizing insurance and employment cases for some of California’s largest sive experience practicing real estate law to serve recoveries through strategic negotiation, litigation, and most high-profile employers in the temporary as a trusted advisor, often serving as the go-to outside and alternative dispute resolution, handling billions in staffing, service, manufacturing, and retail industries, counsel or lead counsel for his clients. His practice claims for major energy, construction, and manufacturing successfully defending clients against the most challeng- focuses sophisticated national real estate transactions, clients; natural disaster claims for property owners; and ing wage and hour, discrimination, non-compete and including mixed use, transit, hotel, historic properties, major financial services firms. anti-raiding claims facing employers in California and ski resort, shopping center and office developments and Jordan recently led a legal team as co-lead counsel in across the nation. He is currently leading class, collective joint ventures; zoning and land use; real estate financ- two parallel, high-stakes lawsuits on behalf of high-profile and other complex employment litigation and has devel- ing, and construction. He has experience in affordable Kuwait client, PVT Limited. The actions arose out of a oped a highly-successful unfair competition and employ- housing law through his work on Heroes Project, which total loss to PVT Limited’s G550 business jet, exceeding ee raiding practice in California. builds housing for teachers, police officers and hospital $20 million in damages. National Union Fire Insurance Juarez has been at the helm helping companies nav- staff. Company filed a declaratory judgment action against igate the uncharted challenges brought on by the pan- Jones is actively involved in internal Snell & Wilm- PVT Limited concerning property insurance coverage. demic and by regulation keeping up with technology. He er committees and groups. As the managing partner of PVT Limited came to Jordan’s team with denied claims is representing several companies in cases that implicate the Los Angeles office, Jones leads his fellow attorneys and no expectation of recovery. Following two years of COVID issues, including a novel question about whether and staff in efforts to exceed client expectations while hard-fought litigation, Jordan recently secured favorable, masks and COVID-19 testing via temperature checks fostering an enjoyable working environment, based on global settlements in both cases that contributed to the can be considered compensable time and reimbursement open communication and mutual respect. client recovering approximately 90% of its losses. issues related to work at home. MAKING AN IMPACT Nixon Peabody congratulates our healthcare partner Harsh Parikh, for being recognized among the Top 100 Lawyers by the Los Angeles Business Journal. Harsh makes a positive impact every day with his talent, insight, and dedicated service to healthcare providers and managed care organizations in California. 300 South Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA nixonpeabody.com/healthcare @NixonPeabodyLLP 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 41 5/12/22 11:06 AM
42 LOS ANGELES BUSINESS JOURNAL – BRANDED CONTENT MAY 16, 2022 CHRISTIANNE KERNS KATHY KU LAUREN LANGER Managing Partner Partner Partner Hahn & Hahn LLP Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Best Best & Krieger C K B hristianne Kerns is the first female managing partner athy Ku’s career legal work stretches from the high- est Best & Krieger partner Lauren Langer manages of the prestigious 121-year-old Pasadena-based law est levels of the judicial system as a clerk to the late the legal matters for numerous prominent California firm, which has transitioned from a historic “old-line Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, to the entities. She serves as city attorney for the City of firm” into a majority woman and minority-owned firm. highest levels of the corporate world, as an advisor on West Hollywood and as land use counsel for the cities As managing partner, Kerns is responsible for managing transformative deals like Careem’s $3.1 billion acquisi- of Lomita and Hermosa Beach. She also serves as legal day-to-day business operations, developing, imple- tion by Uber. The transactions she has handled for pub- counsel for the Westside Cities Council of Govern- menting and driving organizational goals, procedures, lic and private companies includes the IPO of Internet ments, which includes the Westside cities of West Hol- and policies, managing firm lawyers and the director of Brands (owner of Fodor’s Travel, CarsDirect, and other lywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City and administration, collaborating with other partners and top consumer websites) and Berkshire Hathaway’s com- portions of the City of Los Angeles and the County of maintaining positive client relationships. plex acquisition of Duracell. Los Angeles. Kerns and her team handle sophisticated financing In the last two years, Ku has played a lead role on a In these roles, Langer advises her clients on land transactions and restructure; manage complex commer- host of particularly impactful deals, including her work use, zoning, development projects, environmental and cial business relationships and contracts, and lead mul- acting as lead M&A partner on the $550 million sale of housing laws, including SB 9, Density Bonus Law, the tifaceted real estate deals and projects. Kerns is a trusted Lyft’s self-driving vehicle division, Level 5, to the Toyo- Housing Accountability Act, the Housing Crisis Act board member and advisor to boards of directors, equity ta subsidiary Woven Planet Holdings, Inc. Lyft executed (SB 330) and the California Environmental Quality holders, and C-suite executives with a track record of the deal in part to accelerate its path to profitability, Act (CEQA). She also drafts legislation and contracts identifying and effectively addressing risks and legal which the company has now achieved for multiple and advises on all other legal issues associated with issues and strategic and operational challenges with the consecutive quarters. municipal law practice, such as the Brown Act and overarching goal of optimizing results value and ROI. California Public Records Act. STEPHEN LARSON DAVID LASH RANDALL S. LEFF Partner Managing Counsel for Pro Bono and Public Interest Services Co-Managing Partner Larson LLP O’Melveny & Myers LLP Ervin Cohen & Jessup LLP F D R ormer U.S. District Judge and Larson LLP founding avid Lash has long been a leader in the public inter- andy Leff is a co-managing partner of ECJ and a part- partner Stephen Larson has been a renowned trial est community. As an attorney he has devoted his ner in the Litigation Department. For more than 30 lawyer for high-stakes civil, commercial, and white career to using the law to fight poverty and advance years, he has tried and resolved “bet the company” collar matters since returning to private practice in the causes of the underserved, ensuring that our demo- business disputes in both state and federal court. His cli- 2009. Perhaps what distinguishes Larson most is how he cratic protections work for those who need them most. ents value his consistently customized, high-quality legal handles every case on a personal level. His reputation He believes in the power of judicial branch to preserve services with his signature enthusiasm, creativity, and in the courtroom is as an even-tempered litigator with the basic necessities of life for those in need, under- passion. a keen mind, but clients know him for his unyielding standing that access to justice is meaningless without Leff has many long-term clients in various industries, work ethic that drives him to advocate relentlessly for representation by competent, compassionate counsel. including technology, healthcare, real estate, manufac- their best. Lash helped launch O’Melveny & Myers’ Pro Bono turing, food and beverages, entertainment, biotechnolo- Larson achieved landmark results during an unprec- Initiative, a recipient of the ABA’s distinguished Pro gy, and financial services. Leff has built his reputation by edented two years. In 2022, with several law firms vying Bono Publico Award, the Rose L. Schiff Commitment developing innovative strategies that recognize the rela- for the role, he was selected to serve as interim co-lead to Justice Award, the Beacon of Justice Award from tionship between the immediate legal and the long-term counsel of the oil spill class actions against Amplify the National Legal Aid and Defender Association, and goals of the business. By working collaboratively with his Energy Corp. He and partner Hilary Potashner were many others. Following the murder of George Floyd, clients, he is able to solve problems creatively and min- also hired to conduct an investigation into the allega- he was one of the founders of the Law Firm Antiracism imize the impact of litigation. Whether it be litigating a tions regarding the treatment of the 13 Turpin children Alliance. multi-state class action matter involving more than $100 while under the care of Riverside County. million, resolving a business dispute before the case is filed, or strategizing business expansion, Leff consistently delivers exceptional results. 025-66_Top100Law_SUPP.indd 42 5/12/22 11:06 AM
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