Amanda O'Brien

At Marshall Dennehey and Blank Rome, upper-level attorneys, including former federal judges, devote time they could be billing to sharpening the next generation’s skills.

Attorney Kevin Berry says Vaughan McLean owes him over $350,000 that he contributed to help the firm pay off a $2 million loan. Founder Joseph Vaughan responded that Berry’s misrepresentations over his book of business caused the firm to incur $10 million in litigation funding loans.

“The Supreme Court in Harrington made it clear that federal courts can no longer ‘look the other way’ and issue such free passes to mass tortfeasors such as Eckert who refuse to place their assets on the settlement negotiation table,” argued attorney George Bochetto.

While the firms had hoped to hold partnership votes in July for an October merger, sources said, the plan is now to formalize the combination before the start of 2025.

The three-partner team includes former energy and natural resources practice co-chair Ryan Purpura.

San Diego non-equity partner Meagan Garland also claims the firm discriminates against attorneys of color and women in compensation decisions.

“We did this move a little bit swiftly, in light of client demands,” said incoming partner Stacie Hartman.

Corporate practice leaders view career development efforts not just for their impact on individual attorneys but for their broader relationship to a firm’s long-term growth.

Corey Smith replaces Thomas Ecker, who is retiring after 23 years at Klehr Harrison.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, an estimated 43% of cats have been adopted from a rescue group or animal shelter.