Recent Firm News
MARCH 2010
Richmond Partner at the Top of her Game
Congratulations to Richmond Managing Partner, Sandra Giannone Ezell, who was one of three named as 2010 Women at the Top by River City Express Network, the Richmond chapter of the American Business Women's Association.
FEBRUARY 2010
South Carolina Partners Featured in South Carolina Lawyers Weekly
Congratulations to Joel H. Smith and Pamela J. Roberts, who were featured in a front page story on February 15. The husband and wife team share with South Carolina Lawyers Weekly how they balance busy legal careers with a demanding family life.
Richmond Managing Partner Quoted in Law360
Sandra Giannone Ezell was quoted in the February 16th edition of Product Liability Law360! In the article, "BPA Bans Could Fan Litigation Flames," Sandra comments on the current and future litigation against manufacturers of children's products containing the BPA chemical. Click here for to visit Law360's website.
Minneapolis Partner Featured in Law360
David R. Kelly is quoted in the February 12 edition of Product Liability Law360 in the article titled, "Smarter Juries Rendering Bigger Verdicts, PL Attys Say." David shares his view that the well-informed juries of today are more likely to make fair decisions based on the facts of the case. Click here for to visit Law360's website.
Attorneys Author Chapter in Product Liability Guide
Four firm attorneys recently authored chapters in the new treatise entitled, Product Liability Litigation: Current Law, Strategies and Best Practices, which was published in October 2009 by the Practising Law Institute.
Partner George W. Soule and Of Counsel to the firm, Kenneth Ross authored the chapter titled, "Post-Sale Responsibilities in the United States and Foreign Countries," and Partner Sandra Giannone Ezell along with David E. Gluckman authored the chapter titled, "Game-Changers: Defending Products Cases with Child Plaintiffs."
This treatise is available at http://www.pli.edu/product/book_detail.asp?id=56643.
New Managing Partner Featured in MN Lawyer Blog
Newly elected Managing Partner, Kim M. Schmid was featured on minnlawyer.com in a blog by the editor, related to the growing number of women leaders in law firms. Click here to read the entry.
2010 Managing Partners
Bowman and Brooke is pleased to announce the election of two new Managing Partners! Kim M. Schmid, of Minneapolis and Barry C. Toone, of Phoenix, now hold responsibility and leadership for day-to-day operations in their respective offices.
Bowman and Brooke Celebrates 25 Years
February 1st marked the firm's 25th anniversary! When we opened our doors in 1985, we had two offices, and less than 20 attorneys. Today, we have seven offices from coast to coast, and more than 150 attorneys nationwide!
JANUARY 2010
Detroit Partner on Front Page of Detroit Legal News
Managing Partner in our Detroit office, Thomas P. Branigan was profiled in the January 6th issue of the Detroit Legal News. Tom talks about traveling, his practice and his recent recognitions. Click here for the article.
2009 Irish Legal 100
Congratulations to Partners Thomas P. Branigan, Vincent Galvin, Jr., and David R. Kelly for being named to the second annual Irish Legal 100! This recognition is presented by the Irish Voice newspaper and Irish America magazine to those in the legal community nationwide who "share a passion for the law and pride in their heritage." Click here to read more.
Managing Partner in Law360
Detroit Managing Partner, Thomas P. Branigan was quoted extensively in the January 4th edition of Product Liability Law360 in the article "Weak Economy Slows Litigation Growth." Tom talks about his predictions for the litigation landscape in 2010.
Product Liability Defense Firms of the Year
In the January 1st edition of Product Liability Law360, Bowman and Brooke was one of five firms named as Product Liability Defense Firms of the Year! The firm was recognized for its role in a class action defense verdict obtained for a seat belt manufacturer client, where the judge found the client did meet testing guidelines. Firm Chairman David W. Graves is extensively quoted in the story accompanying the list.
Managing Partner, Sandra Giannone Ezell was quoted in the same issue regarding upcoming changes to the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act in their Product Liability Legislation to Watch In 2010 listing, as it relates to child products.
DECEMBER 2009
Virginia Legal Elite
Richmond Partner, Michael A. Montgomery, has been named to the 2009 Legal Elite by Virginia Business Magazine! Mike was named in the area of construction, and was also named to the Legal Elite in 2006-2007 for transportation law. To read more about the honor, click here.
Best Lawyers in America
Congratulations to Partners Richard A. Bowman, George W. Soule, Joel H. Smith and Michael A. Montgomery are recognized in the 2010 edition of The Best Lawyers in America! Joel Smith, our Columbia, South Carolina office's Managing Partner was named to the inaugural Lawyers of the Year List for the Personal Injury category. Only a single lawyer in each practice area in each community was honored as the "Lawyer of the Year" for 2010.
Firm Ranked #32 for Concentration of Female Partners
In the December 14th edition of Product Liability Law360, the publication ranks the top 100 firms with the highest concentration of female partners. Bowman and Brooke LLP ranked number 32 on that list!
Law360 Ranks Bowman and Brooke #1
In the December 7th edition of Product Liability Law360, Bowman and Brooke is ranked number 1 for the highest concentration of product liability attorneys! Ranked number 6 for overall size of our product liability practice, firm Chairman/Managing Partner David W. Graves, Jr. and Managing Partner Thomas P. Branigan were extensively quoted in the article.
2010 Minnesota Rising Stars
Congratulations to Partners, Alana K. Bassin, Christopher W. Fowlkes, Scott B. Paxton and Roshan N. Rajkumar; and Patrick L. Arneson, Jenny A. Covington and Barry J. Koopmann, Associates, who have been selected as 2010 Rising Stars® by Minnesota Law & Politics Magazine! Rising Stars are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state. For more information about the selection process, click here.
NOVEMBER 2009
South Carolina Office Addition Featured in Law360
In the November 25th edition of Product Liability Law360, an article titled, "Bowman Opens SC Office With Nelson Mullins Quartet," features our four new partners and the opening of our seventh office. Click here to read the article.
Bowman and Brooke Opens Office in South Carolina
Bowman and Brooke is very pleased to announce the opening of our seventh office! Located in Columbia, South Carolina, this office will be lead by Managing Partner, Joel H. Smith. Also joining the firm are Partners Pamela Roberts, Courtney Shytle and Richard Willis.
Left to right: Pamela Roberts, Joel Smith, Courtney Shytle, Richard Willis.
This office will officially open for business on December 1st, and contact information will be:
1441 Main Street, Suite 1000
Columbia, SC 29201
803.726.0020 Main
803.726.0021 Fax
Click here to read more about these partners in the press release.
SEPTEMBER 2009
Michigan Super Lawyers and Rising Stars 2009
Congratulations to Partners Thomas P. Branigan, Gretchen A. Colter, Fred J. Fresard, Lawrence C. Mann and Ronald C. Wernette, who were named as 2009 Super Lawyers® by Michigan Super Lawyers Magazine! Super Lawyers® are selected by their peers, and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state.
Also listed in this issue of Michigan Super Lawyers Magazine, are the 2009 Rising Stars®. Rising Stars® are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state. Congratulations to Associates David L. Campbell, Nicole L. DiNardo, Nicholas G. Even, David J. Gentile and Partner, Andrea L. Moody, for being selected to this elite group! For more information about the selection process for either recognition, click here.
Phoenix Partner Named to Hall of Fame
Congratulations to Phoenix Partner, Rebecca A. Albrecht, who will be recognized as a 2009 Maricopa County Bar Association Hall of Fame inductee. Rebecca will be recognized with the 20 other inductees at the MCBA's Annual Meeting, October 28th.
This recognition was created to recognize lawyers and judges in practice for at least 10 years who have contributed to the county bar and the profession. Their choices were based on individuals having had an impact on the history and development of the Maricopa County Bar and the legal profession, significant or unique contributions to the law or the administration of justice, or who have demonstrated significant leadership, advocacy and accomplishments in service to the community or the profession.
Rebecca, who currently manages a successful Alternative Dispute Resolution practice in our Phoenix office, served as the County Bar President from 1990-1991. She was the first woman to serve as the president of the Maricopa County Bar Association.
Detroit Associate Named to State Bar Executive Council
Congratulations to Detroit Associate, Nicholas G. Even on being appointed to the Executive Council for the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Michigan.
The Young Lawyers Section is the largest section of the Michigan State Bar, providing education, information and analysis about issues of concern for members. As a member of the Executive Council, Nick will be involved in the coordination of activities of particular interest and value to young lawyers in Michigan, as well as working with the various bar associations in Michigan, and the American Bar Association, in the promotion of their programs.
Phoenix Partner Quoted in the National Law Journal
Managing Partner, Jill S. Goldsmith, was quoted extensively in the National Law Journal story, "The pain of laser hair removal heads to court." In the article, Jill discusses recent trends and the future of Medical Spa lawsuits. Click here to read the article.
AUGUST 2009
Minneapolis Partner featured in Minnesota Lawyer
Minneapolis Partner, Kim M. Schmid, was recently featured in the Minnesota Lawyer article, "Medical device, pharmaceutical litigation." Kim discusses what's hot and what's not in Drug & Medical Device Litigation trends. Click here to read the entire article.
JULY 2009
Firm named to Chambers and Partners List
For the first time, Bowman and Brooke LLP has been named to the Chambers and Partners list for Products Liability: Nationwide! Similar to our Legal 500 listing, Chambers has been ranking firms for 19 years and is internationally respected for their research and rankings. Ranked in Band 4, the editors note our strong history in automotive litigation and credits a growing profile in other industries including pharmaceuticals, medical devices and nursing home work!
Chambers also notes key industries highlighting a short list of lawyers. In the national list for Product Liability: Automotive, both Richard A. Bowman and Paul G. Cereghini were named to a list of only eight lawyers who are considered top lawyers nationwide. Click here to read more about Chambers and Partners.
Managing Partner Quoted in Law360
Minneapolis Managing Partner, George W. Soule, was extensively quoted in the July 13th issue of Product Liability Law360. In the article, "Top Product Liability Motions And How To Win Them," George discusses different types of motions used in product liability cases, and when they should be used. Click here for a copy of the article.
JUNE 2009
Partner Quoted in Law360
Minneapolis Partner Kim M. Schmid was interviewed for Product Liability Law360, following a successful summary judgment motion for her medical device manufacturer client. The article titled, "Device Maker Prevails in Pain Pump Suit," appeared in the publication's June 29th issue. Click here to read the article.
Bowman and Brooke named to the National Law Journal's "Midsize Hot List!"
In the June 29th edition of the National Law Journal, Bowman and Brooke was named as one of only 20 midsized firms on the publication's "Midsize Hot List!" The National Law Journal's inaugural Midsize Hot List represents law firms across the country that, according to the newspaper, "have demonstrated creative, innovative strategies to stay competitive. From piles of nominations they received, the NLJ selected firms that have found new ways to recruit and retain top talent, develop practice areas, manage their operations and position themselves to stay on track during the economic upheaval."
The Midsize Hot List can be found by clicking here.
Virginia Rising Stars 2009
Congratulations to Richmond Associate Rebecca Herbig for being selected as a 2009 Rising Star® by Virginia Super Lawyers Magazine! Rising Stars® are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state. For more information about the selection process, click here.
Southern California Rising Stars 2009
Congratulations to Partners Gregory P. Gilmer and Susan V. Vargas, and Associate Douglas J. Lief, who have been selected as 2009 Rising Stars® by Southern California Super Lawyers Magazine, and are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state selected as Rising Stars®. For more information about the selection process, click here.
Bowman and Brooke Named to 2009 Legal 500 U.S.
Bowman and Brooke is named in the 2009 Legal 500 U.S., as the only firm in the top tier of the Product liability and mass tort defense: automotive/transport category! The firm was also recognized in this category for 2008, and for the second year in a row, Paul G. Cereghini and Vincent Galvin, Jr. are recognized as "leading lawyers." Other individuals highlighted are Richard A. Bowman, David W. Graves, Jr., David R. Kelly, Mark V. Berry, Brian Takahashi, Fred J. Fresard, Thomas P. Branigan, Thomas M. Klein, H. Franklin Hostetler, III and Sandra Giannone Ezell.
To read the full report in detail, and see what our clients said about us, click here.
MAY 2009
Managing Partner Quoted in Law 360 Article on Globalization
In the May 27th issue of Product Liability Law 360, Phoenix Managing Partner, Paul G. Cereghini, is quoted in the article, "Globalization Could Incite Global Forum Shopping." In this article, he discusses how globalization is impacting product liability litigation, and in particular leading to international forum shopping by foreign injured plaintiffs.
Law360 is an on-line national publication that covers relevant news in 13 practice areas daily. In January, Law 360 named Bowman and Brooke as one of the nation's largest product liability practices in their 2009 Law360 Litigation Almanac.
Detroit Partner Featured in Crain's Article
In the May 10th issue of Crain's Detroit Business, Partner Andrea L. Moody shares her work-life balance story as a single mother of a young son and a growing product liability practice in the article titled, "Family in the balance: Firms reduce obstacles, but having kids still affects lawyers' earnings." Detroit Managing Partner, Lawrence C. Mann is also interviewed, and discusses the advantages of supporting working parents.
Read the full article by clicking here.
Southwest Super Lawyers 2009
Congratulations to Partners Jill S. Goldsmith, Thomas M. Klein, and Barry C. Toone, and Of Counsel Jeffrey R. Brooke, who were selected as 2009 Super Lawyers® by Southwest Super Lawyers Magazine! Super Lawyers® are selected by their peers, and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state. For more information about the selection process, click here.
APRIL 2009
2009 Burton Award Winners
Congratulations to Minneapolis Partner, Ryan L. Nilsen and Minneapolis Associate, Michael R. Carey for receiving the Burton Foundation's 2009 Distinguished Legal Writing Award! Their article, Defending Lead-Containing Toy Lawsuits, was published in DRI's "For The Defense", February, 2008. This year's recognition marks the third in a row for Bowman and Brooke. Past honorees include George W. Soule and Kenneth Ross in 2007 and Sandra Giannone Ezell in 2008.
The Burton Award is a unique national awards program dedicated principally to rewarding effective legal writing. The program honors partners in law firms who use plain, clear and concise language and avoid archaic, stilted legalese. Each year, only 30 authors are selected out of the entries submitted by the nation's 1,000 largest law firms. For more information, click here: http://www.burtonawards.com/index.html.
MARCH 2009
Crain's Detroit Diversity Award
In the March 29 issue of Crain's Detroit Business, Bowman and Brooke LLP was announced as one of three 2009 Crain's Diversity Award winners! The Firm's Detroit office was featured in a special section for which Managing Partner, Lawrence C. Mann, was interviewed about the firm's diversity efforts. Click here for a copy of the article. The Firm will be recognized at an April luncheon with the two additional recipients.
This is the second diversity award for the firm in less than a year, after being awarded the DRI Law Firm Diversity Award in 2008.
Minneapolis Partner Quoted in Modern Healthcare
Managing Partner, Richard G. Morgan was quoted recently in Modern Healthcare regarding the effects on medical device manufacturers, following a preemption ruling for drug companies. Click here to read the article.
2009 Up & Coming Attorneys
We are pleased to announce that Minneapolis Associate Barry J. Koopmann has been selected as one of Minnesota Lawyer's "Up and Coming Attorneys" for 2009! Each year Minnesota Lawyer recognizes local attorneys in practice 10 years or less with this honor, and bases their decision on each nominee's professional accomplishment, leadership, and service to the community/profession.
Barry will be featured in a special section of the Minnesota Lawyer, and will be honored at a luncheon with other 2009 winners on Thursday, May 7. Congratulations Barry!
FEBRUARY 2009
Phoenix Managing Partner Featured in Of Counsel
Paul G. Cereghini, a firm Managing Partner, is featured in the February 2009 issue of Of Counsel! In this national publication, Paul Cereghini talks about his early beginnings as a lawyer including why he chose to be a trial lawyer, what makes our Phoenix office tick locally and nationally in litigation, trends in ATV litigation and what it's like to represent household name manufacturers in personal injury litigation. Click here to read the article.
JANUARY 2009
Firm Named Top 10 Largest Product Liability Practice
Bowman and Brooke came in at #4 in the 2009 Law360 Litigation Almanac as one of the top 10 largest product liability practices in the U.S., and ranked #1 for the highest concentration of product liability lawyers!
Law360 surveyed U.S. firms with 100 or more lawyers, and then ranked them by number of cases for which the firms were retained as counsel over a one-year period. Click here to read the press release.
Bowman and Brooke Announces Advanced Firm-wide Diversity for 2009
Bowman and Brooke LLP, announces its recognition by the DRI (the voice of the defense bar) as the winner of the Law Firm Diversity Award for 2008. This national honor concluded another year in the firm's ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusiveness. Click here to read the press release.
NOVEMBER 2008
2009 Minnesota Rising Stars
Congratulations to Partners, Alana K. Bassin, Christopher W. Fowlkes, Ryan L. Nilsen, and Roshan N. Rajkumar; and Theodore Dorenkamp, III, Barry J. Koopmann, and Scott B. Paxton, Associates, who have been selected as 2009 Rising Stars® by Minnesota Law & Politics Magazine! Rising Stars are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state. For more information about the selection process, click here.
OCTOBER 2008
Detroit Associate Makes Front Page
Detroit Associate, David L. Campbell was recently featured on the front page of both the Oakland County Legal News and the Detroit Legal News in an article titled, "Double Duty," about his licensure in both the U.S. and Canada. David talks about the benefits his clients gain from his multi-country licenses.
Bowman and Brooke Receives Diversity Award
At this year's DRI (Defense Research Institute) Annual Meeting on October 23, Bowman and Brooke proudly accepted the 2008 DRI Law Firm Diversity Award. Established in 2002, this award is presented each year to a law firm that demonstrates a significant commitment to diversity. For more information, visit: http://www.dri.org/.
Who's Who of Product Liability Lawyers
Congratulations to Richard A. Bowman, Jeffrey R. Brooke and Kenneth Ross for being listed as three of 313 lawyers worldwide who were selected for inclusion in the 2009 edition of The International Who's Who of Product Liability Lawyers! For more information, click here to visit their website.
SEPTEMBER 2008
Michigan Super Lawyers and Rising Stars 2008
Congratulations to Partners Thomas P. Branigan, Lawrence C. Mann, Fred J. Fresard, Gretchen A. Colter and Ronald C. Wernette, who were named as 2008 Super Lawyers® by Michigan Super Lawyers Magazine! Super Lawyers® are selected by their peers, and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state.
Also listed in this issue of Michigan Super Lawyers Magazine, are the 2008 Rising Stars®. Rising Stars® are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state. Congratulations to Associate Nicholas G. Even, for being selected to this elite group! For more information about the selection process for either recognition, click here.
Of Counsel Unvails New Product Liability Prevention Website
Kenneth Ross, Of Counsel to the firm, has just set up a new website devoted to Product Liability Prevention. The site contains many of his articles on the subject as well as a page devoted to links on product safety, regulatory compliance, and product liability prevention. You can access the site at http://www.productliabilityprevention.com/.
AUGUST 2008
Minnesota Super Lawyers 2008
Congratulations to Richard A. Bowman, David W. Graves, David R. Kelly, Richard G. Morgan, John D. Sear and George W. Soule, who were named as 2008 Super Lawyers® by Minnesota Law & Politics Magazine. Super Lawyers® are selected by their peers, and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state. For more information on the selection process, click here.
JULY 2008
Two Named Unsung Legal Heroes!
Congratulations to our firm's COO, Mickey Bailey, and Librarian, Donna Trimble, for being selected as 2008 Unsung Legal Heroes by Minnesota Lawyer! Two of just 25 honorees, Mickey Bailey earns the honor in the Firm Administrator category, and Donna Trimble in the Law Librarian category. Each will be honored in a special section of Minnesota Lawyer and at a September luncheon. Click here to read more about the awards.
Northern California Super Lawyers 2008
Congratulations to Vincent Galvin, Jr., a Managing Partner in our San Jose office, who was named a 2008 Super Lawyer® by Northern California Super Lawyers Magazine! Super Lawyers® are selected by their peers, and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state. For more information on the selection process, click here.
JUNE 2008
Minneapolis Office Recognized with "Top Projects" Award
Finance and Commerce released a June special section, in which our recently-redesigned Minneapolis office was named one of 25 "2008 Top Projects". This award is reserved for projects completed in 2007, and award winners were selected based on innovative construction techniques, creativity in design and overall complexity. To read more about the recognition, click here.
Virginia Rising Stars 2008
Congratulations to Richmond Associate Rebecca Herbig for being selected as a 2008 Rising Star® by Virginia Super Lawyers Magazine! Rising Stars® are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state. For more information about the selection process, click here.
Phoenix Partner Featured in Business Journal Story
As a female Managing Partner of our Phoenix office, Jill Goldsmith is highlighted in this week's Phoenix Business Journal following a national story on the lack of female managing partners around the country. In the article, Jill shares her views on women in leadership roles, tort reform and more. Click here to read the entire story on the Phoenix Business Journal's website.
Southern California Rising Stars 2008
Congratulations to Partners Gregory P. Gilmer and Susan V. Vargas, and Associate Douglas J. Lief, who have been selected as 2008 Rising Stars® by Southern California Super Lawyers Magazine, and are among the top 2.5% of attorneys in their state selected as Rising Stars®. For more information about the selection process, click here.
In addition, Doug Lief was featured in an article titled, "Why Wayne Brady Would Make A Great Lawyer," in Southern California Super Lawyers Magazine 2008 - Rising Stars Edition. The article focuses on Doug's hobby, improv comedy.
Southwest Super Lawyers 2008
Congratulations to Jeffrey R. Brooke, and Barry C. Toone, who were named as 2008 Super Lawyers® by Southwest Super Lawyers Magazine. Super Lawyers® are selected by their peers, and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state. For more information on the selection process, click here.
Nine Named in 2008 Legal 500
Bowman and Brooke has been listed in the Legal 500 U.S. as a 2008 "#1 Recommended Firm" in the Product Liability and Mass Torts Defense-Automotive/Transport category. Congratulations to Mark V. Berry, Richard A. Bowman, Thomas P. Branigan, Paul G. Cereghini, Sandra Giannone Ezell, Fred J. Fresard, Vincent Galvin, Jr., David R. Kelly and Brian Takahashi for being named in the Legal 500 United States 2008 edition! In addition, Paul Cereghini and Vincent Galvin were named "Leading Lawyers" in their field!
The Legal 500 is published each year, and provides independent research on leading law firms and lawyers in a variety of practice areas, specialties and countries, largely based on the combined opinions of corporate counsel and clients who participated in their research process. To read about our firm's listing, click here.
APRIL 2008
Richmond Partner Receives Writing Award
Sandra Giannone Ezell, Managing Partner of our Richmond office, has been selected as a 2008 Burton Award winner for her article, "Round Up the Usual Suspects: Traditional Methods of Selecting First-Chair Trial Counsel Exclude Women," published in Product Liability Law & Strategy's February 2007 issue.
The Burton Awards for Legal Achievement are being awarded at a June 16th awards ceremony to 30 partners from the nation's top 1,000 law firms. For more information, click here.
Minneapolis Office Recognized with Design Award
We are proud to announce that our recently re-designed Minneapolis office has been recognized by the Northland Chapter of the IIDA (International Interior Design Association) with the 2008 FAB Award (Fresh, Artistic, Brilliant) for the best Sustainable Design of the year! For more information on the award, visit the IIDA's Northland Chapter website by clicking here. Special thanks to our architects, SmithGroup, for their award-winning LEED Certified design.
Three Attorneys Recognized for their Achievements
San Jose Partner, Vincent Galvin, Jr., has been selected as a 2008 Who's Who in Silicon Valley by the Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal. Vince will get special recognition in an issue of the publication, and will be honored at a dinner reception on May 8th. This award is given to accomplished top executives in the Silicon Valley area.
Minneapolis Partner, Ryan L. Nilsen, will be recognized as one of 25 named 2008 Up & Coming Attorneys by Minnesota Lawyer at a May 8th reception. Ryan will also be featured in a special section of this newspaper. This award is reserved for attorneys who have distinguished themselves during their first 10 years of practice, and have demonstrated leadership, professional accomplishment and service to the legal community. Click here to read Ryan's story.
Detroit Associate, Nicholas G. Even, was awarded the 2008 Golden Gavel Award by the Michigan Defense Trial Counsel association. This award is given to young lawyers who have been in practice for 10 years or less, and have demonstrated that they are accomplished in the areas of professionalism, community involvement/pro bono activities, leadership of other young attorneys, and achievement in their practice.
Partner Named to Board of Directors
Congratulations to Minneapolis Partner, Roshan Rajkumar, for his nomination to the Board of Directors of Twin Cities Diversity in Practice, an association dedicated to attracting and retaining attorneys of color in the Minneapolis/St. Paul legal community. You can visit this organization's website at http://www.diversityinpractice.org/.
MARCH 2008
Richmond Office Works to Save Protected Wetlands from Destruction
Richmond Partner, Robert Wise was recently quoted in the recent The Virginian-Pilot article regarding a pro bono case our Richmond office is handling to save protected wetlands from destruction. Click here to read the story.
JANUARY 2008
Bowman and Brooke's Minneapolis Office First Certified LEED-Commercial Interiors Law Office in Minnesota
Bowman and Brooke's Minneapolis office has received a LEED - Commercial Interiors certification rating from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). This is the first law firm workplace outside of California, and the second nation-wide, to meet the strict environmental criteria set by the USGBC's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design green commercial interiors rating system. Click here for more information.
Three Named Southern California Super Lawyers(R)
Congratulations to Mark V. Berry, Mike H. Madokoro, and H. Franklin Hostetler, III on being selected by Super Lawyers Magazine as 2008 Super Lawyers(R) in Southern California. Super Lawyers are selected by their peers and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state. For more information on the selection process, click here.
Minneapolis Partner Named Attorney of the Year
Congratulations to Minneapolis Partner, David R. Kelly, for being selected as one of fifteen lawyers to be named as a "2007 Attorney of the Year" by Minnesota Lawyer.
This recognition is being awarded to a select group of attorneys who have demonstrated exemplary work throughout 2007. Criteria for this award included leadership in the profession, involvement in major cases or other newsworthy events, excellence in corporate or transactional services, and public service.
A special section in an upcoming issue of Minnesota Lawyer will highlight the accomplishments of these award recipients, and they will be honored at a dinner celebration that will take place on Feb. 21, 2008.
New Partners in Minneapolis and Detroit
We are pleased to announce three new Partners in our Minneapolis and Detroit offices. Roshan N. Rajkumar and Ryan L. Nilsen from Minneapolis and Samuel A. Nouhan in Detroit, have been elected to our Partnership as of January 1, 2008. Please join us in congratulating them!
DECEMBER 2007
Minnesota's 2008 Rising Stars
Congratulations to the seven Minneapolis attorneys selected by Minnesota Law & Politics Magazine as 2008 Rising Stars(R). Partners Alana K. Bassin, Christopher W. Fowlkes, Jennifer K. Huelskoetter, and Michelle L. Rognlien-Gilboe and associates Theodore Dorenkamp, III, Scott B. Paxton, and Roshan N. Rajkumar were all among the top 2.5% in the state selected as Rising Stars(R). For more information about the selection process, click here.
SEPTEMBER 2007
Richmond Partner Featured in Law Practice Magazine
Our Richmond Office's Managing Partner, Sandra Giannone Ezell, was featured in the September 2007 issue of Law Practice Magazine along with 3 other female managing partners in the cover story titled, "Rising to the Top." The article focuses on how each attorney got to the top of their firm's leadership, and the lessons they have learned. Click here to read the article.
Michigan Super Lawyers
Five attorneys in our Detroit office have been selected as a Super Lawyer(R) for 2007 by Super Lawyers Magazine. The office's Managing Partner, Thomas P. Branigan, and Partners, Fred J. Fresard, Ron C. Wernette, Lawrence C. Mann, and Gretchen A. Colter, were selected by their peers and are a part of the top five percent of attorneys in their state who made this list. For more information about the selection process, click here.
Bowman and Brooke's Detroit Office is a Cool Place to Work
Crain's Detroit Business recently named our Detroit office as one of sixty "Cool Places to Work" in the Detroit metro area. They were ranked number 8 of 15 "cool places to work" in the 51-250 employees category, and were selected out of more than 200 local businesses. Click here to read more about the recognition.
AUGUST 2007
Five Partners Named 2007 Minnesota Super Lawyers
Congratulations to Richard G. Morgan, David W. Graves, Jr., David R. Kelly, George W. Soule and Richard A. Bowman on being selected by Super Lawyers Magazine as 2007 Super Lawyers(R). Super Lawyers are selected by their peers and make up the top five percent of attorneys in their state. For more information on the selection process, click here.
JUNE 2007
New Addition to our Richmond Office
We are pleased to announce the addition of Michael A. Montgomery, Partner, to our firm's Richmond, Virginia office. Michael is a national trial lawyer who focuses his practice on the defense of commercial litigation, construction litigation, toxic torts, and personal injury matters, and has experience defending railroads and trucking companies in many states.
MAY 2007
Three Attorneys Named among World's Leading Product Liability Lawyers by Expert Guides.
Richard A. Bowman, Jeffrey R. Brooke, and Kenneth Ross were recently named in the 2007 Expert Guides as among the world's leading product liability lawyers. These lawyers are selected by sending out over 4,000 questionnaires to senior practitioners or in-house counsel involved in each practice area in over 60 jurisdictions, asking them to nominate leading practitioners based on their work and reputation. For more information on these guides, click here.
Minneapolis Partner Awarded 2007 "Forty Under 40"
Christopher W. Fowlkes , a Partner in our Minneapolis office, has been named as one of the 2007 "Forty Under 40" award winners. Each year, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal honors 40 Twin Cities professionals, under 40 years old, based on professional achievements, community service and diversity. Chris will be honored in the May 18th issue of this publication, as well as at a private reception this spring. Congratulations, Chris!
From Riding Broncos to Roping Juries
Richmond Partner, Jill Jacobson, is featured in the current issue of The Advocate Magazine, one of the most popular nationally published gay and lesbian magazines. Jill is Bowman and Brooke's first and only openly gay partner, and we are excited to welcome her and share her story. In the article "Courtroom Wrangler," she talks about her experience being a lesbian in what is typically perceived to be a conservative environment, and her experiences along the way. Click here to read the entire story.
Arizona Civil Verdicts 2006
Brethauer v. GM, tried by Thomas M. Klein, William F. Auther and Dustin A. Christner, of our Phoenix, AZ office, was named one of 8 Significant Defense Verdicts in the Arizona Bar Association's Arizona Attorney magazine.
APRIL 2007
Partner Named 2007 Up & Coming Attorney
Jennifer K. Huelskoetter, a Partner in our Minneapolis office, has been named one of 20 attorneys as a "2007 Up and Coming" honoree by Minnesota Lawyer.
The recognition is designed to honor a small select group of lawyers admitted to the bar ten years or less who have done things worthy of recognition. Honorees were selected on the basis of a variety of criteria including professional accomplishment, significant involvement in the community/bar, taking on a leadership position and/or demonstrating great promise. Jennifer will be featured in an upcoming issue of Minnesota Lawyer as well as receive a recognition at the awards luncheon May 24.
Minneapolis Attorneys to Receive Writing Award
George W. Soule, Partner, and Kenneth Ross, Of Counsel, have been selected as 2007 Burton Award winners for their article, “Post-Sale Duties: A Minefield for Manufacturers ,” published in the Defense Research Institute’s In-House Defense Quarterly, Fall 2006 issue.
The Burton Awards for Legal Achievement are being awarded at the June 4th awards ceremony to 30 partners from the nation’s top 1,000 law firms. For more information, click here.
MARCH 2007
Forget the moving van. We’re taking the stairs.
Our Minneapolis office is moving up to a new location. The building remains the same, only our suite number has changed.
We’re growing, and our new space provides room for continued growth. It’s complete with built-in video conferencing technology, 6 conference rooms, as well as many environmentally friendly features.
Our phone numbers will stay the same, but please update your records with our new suite number:
Bowman and Brooke LLP
150 South Fifth Street, SUITE 3000
Minneapolis, MN 55402
FEBRUARY 2007
Richmond Office Welcomes a New Partner
We are proud to welcome Jill Jacobson to our Richmond office Partner ranks. Jill brings experience representing several manufacturers of products such as drugs and medical equipment, as well as automotive manaufacturers in various types of claims. Jill has also defended claims involving employment and commercial related matters.
Drawing from her previous experience, Jill plans to focus on developing her drug and medical device practice, as well as lead automotive, motorcycle and ATV matters.
Richmond Attorney's Article Posted in LJN's Product Liability Law & Strategy
Sandra Giannone Ezell, Managing Partner at our Richmond office, recently published the article titled, "Traditional Methods of Selecting First-Chair Trial Counsel Exclude Women." This article first appeared in the February 2007 issue of LJN's Product Liability Law & Strategy. Within her article, Sandra discusses the under-representation of women in courtrooms around the country, the barriers to take into consideration, the lack of female role models and mentors within law firms, the systematic exclusion of women in both law firms and the courtroom and gender bias, amongst other topics.
JANUARY 2007
Four Los Angeles Partners Acknowledged as 2007 Southern California Super Lawyers
Mark V. Berry, Managing Partner, H. Franklin Hostetler III, Partner, Mike H. Madokoro, Managing Partner and Robert K. Miller, Partner, have been named 2007 Southern California Super Lawyers by Law & Politics. Kudos to these four talented trial attorneys, whose courtroom savvy depicts our firm's commitment to provide the exceptional service our clients have come to know.
Minneapolis Attorney Quoted in Minnesota Lawyer
John Sear, a Partner at our Minneapolis office, was recently quoted in Minnesota Lawyer in the article, "Insurer gets sanction for evidence spoliation." The case involves a fire scene that was cleaned up too quickly, which did not allow testimony to be used. John discusses the difficulty to fashion a remedy in spoliation cases because sanctions can be either too severe or not enough to remedy the prejudice. He states, "It can be difficult to find a remedy that fits."
John has a uniquely diverse product liability defense practice which includes defending a manufacturer of institutional cleaning and sanitizing products in personal injury and property damages cases involving a variety of toxic exposure circumstances, and defending manufacturers of recreational vehicles and their components and systems.
A Salute to Nine New Partners Who are All at the Top of Their Game
Bowman and Brooke proudly announces the following have joined our partnership. Their courtroom skills, legal prowess and dedication to our clients continues to enhance Bowman and Brooke's reputation as a national defense powerhouse. Please join us in congratulating each of them for "earning their stripes" to partnership.
Our Phoenix office welcomes four new partners, whereas our Minneapolis and Los Angeles offices each add two new partners and one new partner joins our San Jose office. Following is a listing of the newly deemed partners: Phoenix - Curtis J. Busby, Stephanie L. Chilton, Dustin A. Christner, Rebecca A. Albrecht; Minneapolis - Jennifer K. Huelskoetter, C.J. (Charles) Schoenwetter; Los Angeles - Gregory P. Gilmer and Susan V. Vargas; San Jose - Sean A. Ramia. Rebecca and Susan joined our firm last year and continue to nurture and grow their practices.
NOVEMBER 2006
Nine Attorneys Named a "Rising Star" in Minneapolis Office
Nine attorneys from our Minneapolis office were named a "Rising Star" for 2007 in the Minnesota edition of Super Lawyers. Alana K. Bassin, Bard D. Borkon, Christopher W. Fowlkes, Jennifer K. Huelskoetter, Barry J. Koopmann, Ryan L. Nilsen, Roshan N. Rajkumar, Michelle L. Rognlien, and C.J. (Charles) Schoenwetter were selected as "Rising Stars."
Congratulations to these exceptional trial attorneys, whose extraordinary talent and savoir-faire in the courtroom epitomize the values of our firm. This recognition reflects our diligent representation of our clients' interests, which is instilled within each of these attorneys. Approximately two and one-half percent of the state's attorneys are selected as "Rising Stars."
Detroit Office Welcomes New Special Counsel
Our firm welcomes Samuel A. Nouhan as a special counsel to our Detroit office.
OCTOBER 2006
Phoenix Office Welcomes Former Superior Court Judge to Firm
We are pleased to welcome Rebecca A. Albrecht to our Phoenix office. Rebecca was a former Superior Court Judge who served the State of Arizona for 24 years in numerous positions throughout several departments. Additionally, she was a founding Master of the American Inns of Court, Horace Rumpole. Rebecca's prior experience on the bench will provide insight to her practice focusing on arbitration and mediation.
SEPTEMBER 2006
Four Detroit Partners Named 2006 Michigan Super Lawyers
Thomas P. Branigan, Managing Partner, Gretchen A. Colter, Partner, Lawrence C. Mann, Managing Partner and Ronald C. Wernette, Jr., Partner, have been named 2006 Michigan Super Lawyers by Law & Politics. Congratulations to these four gifted trial attorneys. Their savoir-faire in the courtroom reflects our firm's devotion and consummate service to our clients and our approach to effectively resolve their litigation needs.
In order to be named a Super Lawyer in Michigan, these four trial lawyers were selected by their peers from a survey of over 30,000 attorneys with at least five years of practice experience. Only the top five percent of Michigan attorneys are named Super Lawyers.
Bowman and Brooke Welcomes Two New Associates
Our Firm has recently experienced continual growth as we have added two new associates to our ranks. We are pleased to welcome two associates to our Minneapolis location - Melissa Stull and Nathan J. Marcusen.
JULY 2006
Two Minneapolis Partners Named 2006 Minnesota Super Lawyers
Richard A. Bowman , Firm Managing Partner and George W. Soule, Partner, were named Super Lawyers in the recent issue of Minnesota Law & Politics. Each of these attorneys have previously received this designation numerous times as nominated by their peers.
Los Angeles Office Welcomes First Female Partner
We are proud to welcome Susan Vargas to our Los Angeles office. Susan previously worked for our firm as an associate, and is returning as the first female partner in the Los Angeles office. Susan's prior experience with Nissan in her role as in-house counsel, and vast automotive knowledge, will assist her with her practice focusing on defending automotive manufacturers on matters regarding product liability claims.
JUNE 2006
Two Attorneys Named a "Rising Star" in Los Angeles Office
Two attorneys from our Los Angeles office were named a "Rising Star" for 2006 in the Southern California edition of Super Lawyers. Edgar J. Gutierrez and Gregory P. Gilmer were selected as "Rising Stars."
Kudos to these talented trial attorneys, whose outstanding training, talent, and courtroom savvy exemplify our firm's high standards. Their achievement reflects a commitment to intelligent litigation and aggressive pursuit of defense wins for our clients large and small. Approximately two and one-half percent of each state's lawyers are selected as "Rising Stars."
New Associates Join Bowman and Brooke
We are pleased to welcome two new associates and one returning associate to our firm. Curtis E. Jimerson will be based out of our office in San Jose. Scott B. Paxton is returning to our Minneapolis office, in which he previously worked.
APRIL 2006
2006 Management Committee Named
The 2006 Management Committee was recently named. The management committee oversees the day-to-day operations at each of our six offices, performs long-range planning, firm leadership and the search for future management leaders. William F. Auther, Mike H. Madokoro and Daniel J. Smith are new members to this committee. Following are returning members to the committee: Mark V. Berry, Richard A. Bowman, Thomas P. Branigan, Paul G. Cereghini, Sandra Giannone Ezell, Vincent Galvin, Jr., David W. Graves, Jr., Thomas M. Klein, Lawrence C. Mann, Richard G. Morgan, and Wayne D. Struble .
MARCH 2006
Bowman and Brooke LLP Selects CT Summation Enterprise for Its Litigation Support Needs
Legal teams are seeing an increased amount of documentary evidence for review, and the teams often need to collaborate on the data from multiple locations. Bowman and Brooke has found one solution that can help address these increasing challenges: CT Summation Enterprise. Bowman and Brooke is among the first to use CT Summation Enterprise. Click here for more information.
FEBRUARY 2006
Detroit Attorney Quoted in Michigan Lawyers Weekly
Detroit Partner Jeffrey T. Gorcyca was quoted in a front page Michigan Lawyers Weekly article about a recent Federal court decision clarifying ex parte meetings with doctors under HIPPA Act requirements. In this article he explains what the court decision means for defendants in these cases.
Three Los Angeles Partners Named Southern California Super Lawyers
Mark V. Berry, Managing Partner, Robert K. Miller, Managing Partner, and H. Franklin Hostetler III, Partner, were named Super Lawyers in the recent issue of Los Angeles Magazine. There were roughly 100 lawyers named in the Civil Defense Litigation category, and only about five percent of all Southern California lawyers are recognized as Super Lawyers.
Product Liability Goes Global: Minneapolis Attorney Describes Changes for Manufacturers
Product liability and product safety laws and regulations have significantly expanded throughout the world. As a result, the dramatic increase in litigation and potential liability in foreign countries could potentially increase the product liability risks in the United States. Kenneth Ross, Of Counsel–Minneapolis, recently published "Product Liability Goes Global" in Risk Management magazine. He analyzes the European Union and Pacific-Asian product liability laws, litigation, regulatory laws, as well as, the effects of globalization. For the entire article, click here.
JANUARY 2006
Bowman and Brooke's Detroit Office Named to Crain's Top 50 Largest Law Firms
Each year Crain's Detroit Business, publishes a "Books of Lists," which is a compilation of lists that includes the largest law firms. For the first time in firm history, the Detroit office was ranked No. 50 with 15 attorneys. Since the publication the office has grown to 19 attorneys.
Larry Mann Featured in Counsel to Counsel
Counsel to Counsel magazine recently featured Lawrence C. Mann, Partner–Detroit on his view on the Merck Vioxx verdicts and how different state liability laws can impact jury verdicts. For the entire article, click here and go to the Pharmaceuticals section.
Larry is an experienced trial attorney who focuses his practice on defending manufacturers against product liability claims involving, drug and medical devices, boats, cars, trucks, industrial equipment, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles.
Bowman and Brooke Adds More Stripes
Like tigers—the tougher the challenge, the tougher we get. Bowman and Brooke began 2006 by adding more stripes to its leadership. Recently the following five associates were promoted to partner level: (Minneapolis) Kevin Curry and Chris Fowlkes; (Phoenix) Paul Lee; (Los Angeles) Edgar Gutierrez; and (San Jose) Neil Kliebenstein.
Minneapolis Attorney Publishes "Minimizing Risk When Buying and Selling"
While it would be nice if manufacturers could sell the part of their business that had the biggest product liability risk, this isn’t a reality. In the January issue of Risk Management magazine, Kenneth Ross, Of-Counsel–Minneapolis, provides insight on how manufacturers can minimize risk in both buying and selling a business. For the entire article, click here.
Two Minneapolis Attorneys Publish "How to Mount a Successful Defense Against Toxic Mold Claims" in Construction Accounting and Taxation Journal
Richard Morgan, Partner, and Charles Schoenwetter, Associate, discuss how defense attorneys can fight back against toxic mold claims. The article gives hard-hitting advice to prevent mold litigation from being a slam-dunk for plaintiff attorneys. For the entire article, click here.
Richard has taken more than 40 cases to verdict. He has experience in a wide variety of civil litigation matters including products liability, construction defect, chemical exposure, commercial disputes, trucking and bus company litigation and intellectual property. Charles concentrates his civil litigation practice in the areas of general commercial and construction litigation, with a special focus relating to products liability, tort and breach of contract/warranty claims.
Archived Firm News
