Chambers USA 2016 ranks Eckert Seamans lawyers and practices

May 27, 2016

Eckert Seamans has again been named among the nation’s leading law firms, earning top rankings in multiple practice areas and markets in the 2016 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business.

Thirteen Eckert Seamans attorneys were selected by their clients and peers for inclusion among America’s Leading Business Lawyers by Chambers USA. Attorneys with the firm’s Hospitality and Aviation practices earned national rankings, while lawyers in the firm’s Public Finance, Bankruptcy/Restructuring, Construction, Litigation, and Intellectual Property practices earned high honors in Pennsylvania and Delaware.

Additionally, in Pennsylvania, Chambers USA ranked the firm’s Construction, Intellectual Property, Bankruptcy/Restructuring and General Commercial Litigation practices among tops in the state.

Full rankings and editorial commentary are available on the Chambers and Partners website. The publication’s rankings are based upon the recommendations of more than 10,000 clients and lawyers throughout the United States. Chambers USA researchers conduct thousands of interviews to obtain opinions about the lawyers and law firms the interviewees have dealt with over the past year. The leading law firms and attorneys are then compiled and ranked based on the comments in the interviews.

NATIONWIDE, INDIVIDUALS RANKED

Timothy Q. Hudak, Chair of Hospitality Group (Pittsburgh), Notable Practitioner in Leisure & Hospitality Law – Has extensive experience with real estate transactions as well as franchise and management agreements. Clients describe a “tremendously affable person who never gets flustered or shows stress” who “has seen virtually every scenario I could get myself into.”

Evelyn D. Sahr, Chair of Aviation Group (Washington, D.C.), Notable Practitioner in Transportation: Aviation: Regulatory – Described as “very competent and very knowledgeable of the field” by one observer. She offers recognized experience in regulatory compliance matters, regularly representing clients before the FAA and other government agencies.

Drew M. Derco (Washington, D.C.), Associates to Watch in Transportation: Aviation: Regulatory – Noted for his knowledge of foreign route authority actions and consumer protection and disability regulations before the DOT. Derco is a highly rated associate who is widely considered to be a rising star in this space.

PENNSYLVANIA, PRACTICE AREAS RANKED

Construction – According to Chambers USA, the team is “well respected for representing a wide range of clients, such as public and private owners, suppliers and designers. Active in both national and international projects in the infrastructure, energy and leisure sectors.” Sources say, “”They are straightforward, knowledgeable, prepared and engaged.” “Their credibility and efficiency has made a significant difference in the difficult situations we have encountered and their eventual outcomes.”

Intellectual Property – According to Chambers USA, the team has an “enviable track record in the registration and protection of patents, trademarks and copyright. The firm also offers a sophisticated licensing and portfolio management service.” Sources say, “Very good performance.”

Bankruptcy/Restructuring – According to Chambers USA, the team “regularly advises an impressive roster of clients from a variety of sectors, including retail, healthcare, transportation and manufacturing. Renowned for its prowess in contentious bankruptcy work including lender liability, preference and fraudulent conveyance actions. Sources say, “They are capable, they are very well staffed and have a deep bench of staff, and are very client-focused.”

Litigation: General Commercial (Western Pennsylvania) – According to Chambers USA, the team is “distinguished for its representation of clients in commercial litigation before state and federal courts, with a focus on IP, product liability and insurance matters. Also noted for its experience in construction dispute resolution. Sources say, “A classy firm with good lawyers.”

PENNSYLVANIA, INDIVIDUALS RANKED

BANKING & FINANCE

Joan N. Stern (Philadelphia), Notable Practitioner – An “expert in public finance deals and often advises on transactions in the education, transportation and healthcare sectors.”

BANKRUPTCY/RESTRUCTURING

Gary M. Schildhorn (Philadelphia), Notable Practitioner – “He’s a big-picture guy – he is very business-oriented and works hard to get deals done,” reports one interviewee.

Karen Lee “Kitt” Turner (Philadelphia), Notable Practitioner – An appreciative client notes she is “Extremely knowledgeable and considers all the possible options before helping us select the best.”

CONSTRUCTION

Scott D. Cessar, Chair of Construction Group (Pittsburgh), Notable Practitioner – “The ‘efficient’ and ‘practical’ Scott Cessar is regarded by peers and clients as an ‘outstanding attorney’ and ‘a zealous advocate.’”

Cornelius J. O’Brien (Pittsburgh), Notable Practitioner – “Evokes praise as a ‘very compelling advocate,’ with others commenting: ‘People trust his knowledge and judgment.’”

Christopher R. Opalinski, Chair of Litigation Division (Pittsburgh), Notable Practitioner – “Touted as an ‘exceptional trial attorney, counselor and outstanding problem solver.’”

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Roberta Jacobs-Meadway, Co-Chair of the Intellectual Property Group (Philadelphia), Notable Practitioner – “The ‘remarkable’ Roberta Jacobs-Meadway is a ‘walking encyclopedia of trademark knowledge.’.”

Richard E. Peirce (Philadelphia), Notable Practitioner – “Specializes in disputes concerning the internet and computer software. He advises clients on digital privacy and security, software licenses, domain names and the unauthorized use of copyrighted or trademarked material online.”

GENERAL COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Bridget E. Montgomery (Harrisburg), Recognized Practitioner – Chair of the firm’s Harrisburg office commercial litigation group, she handles a wide range of commercial litigation, including patent litigation and class action disputes, as well as daily construction and contract counseling.

DELAWARE, INDIVIDUALS RANKED

CHANCERY

Francis G.X. Pileggi (Wilmington, Delaware), Recognized Practitioner – Litigation practice emphasizes representation in high-stakes corporate and commercial disputes.

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