PARTNERS
John Gill Wharton (Partner) born 1927; admitted to bar, 1953, Maryland. Education: Princeton University, New Jersey (A.B., 1950); University of Maryland School of Law (LL.B., 1953). Mr. Wharton has spoken extensively before industry-sponsored seminars on real estate related topics, and is the author of various nationally published articles on such topics. He is a director of a national title insurance company and is active in numerous civic organizations. Member: International Limousine Service, Inc. (Director, 1979); Green Spring Valley Hunt Club (Secretary, Board of Governors, 1955-2007). Practice Areas: Commercial Real Estate.Email: John Gill Wharton
Forrest F. Bramble, Jr. (Partner) born 1931; admitted to bar, 1956, Maryland. Education: Harvard Univ. (A.B., 1953); Univ. Maryland (LL.B., 1956). Mr. Bramble is Chair of the firm's Estates and Trusts Department, and is former Managing Partner. In addition to estate planning, probate and trust administration, Mr. Bramble's practice includes corporate law. Member: The Bar Assn. of Baltimore City; American Bar Assn. Practice Areas: Estate Planning; Trusts and Estates; Trusts and Estates Taxation; Corporate Law.Email: Forrest F. Bramble, Jr.
Patrick J. B. Donnelly (Partner) born 1936; admitted to bar, 1965, Maryland and U.S. Dist., Dist. of Maryland including Trial Bar; U.S. Court of Appeals, 4th Circuit. Education: Queen's Univ., Belfast, Northern Ireland; Univ. of Notre Dame and Loyola College (B.S., 1961); Univ. of Maryland (LL.B., 1964). Mr. Donnelly has an active national and international business practice which includes real estate, corporate finance, and mergers and acquisitions. He is Director and Chairman of the Board of NS Group, Inc. (NYSE) which he helped take public in 1990. Mr. Donnelly is author of "The Use of Urban Development Grants as a Component of Financing," which appeared in Vol. 1 Real Estate Finance, 1984. Member: American Bar Association. Practice Areas: International Mergers and Acquisitions; Commercial Real Estate.Email: Patrick J. B. Donnelly
V. Timothy Bambrick (Partner) born 1949; admitted to bar, 1974, Maryland; 1975, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 1983, U.S. Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit; 1987, U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia and U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit. Education: University of Maryland (B.A., History, 1971); University of Maryland School of Law (J.D., with honors, 1974). Mr. Bambrick's area of concentration is property insurance law. His experience includes investigation and litigation in various first party areas, including coverage disputes, arson and fraud investigation and subrogation. Member: American Bar Association (Property Insurance Law Committee); Loss Executives Association (Counsel, Maryland-DC Anti-Car Theft Committee). Practice Areas: Subrogation; Insurance Fraud; Property Insurance; Insurance Bad Faith Defense.Email: V. Timothy Bambrick
Robert F. Scholz (Partner) born 1950; admitted to bar, 1976, Maryland. Education: Johns Hopkins Univ. (B.A., 1973); Univ. of Maryland School of Law (J.D., 1976). Mr. Scholz is a business lawyer with broad and deep experience in corporate and financial transactions including mergers and acquisitions, corporate and commercial law, including creditor's rights. Mr. Scholz serves on the Firm's Management Committee, is Chair of the Corporate/Commercial Law Department, and was Managing Partner for fifteen years. He is currently Chair of the Maryland State Ethics Commission, a regulatory commission that interprets and enforces Maryland's ethics laws for public officials, state employees and lobbyists. He serves on the Greater Baltimore Committee's Public Safety Commission and the Board of B&A Railroad Roundhouse Museum. Mr. Scholz is also president of the Johns Hopkins Club. Mr. Scholz has been recognized as a top attorney in business and corporate law by Maryland Super Lawyers magazine. Member: American Bankruptcy Institute; Maryland Bankruptcy Bar Association; Maryland State Ethics Commission (Commissioner and Chair 2003); Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum (Member, Board of Directors, 2008); The Johns Hopkins Club (President, 2006-2008); The Johns Hopkins Club (Member, Board of Governors, 2002); Public Safety Committee, The Greater Baltimore Committee (Member, 1998-2008); Calvert Institute for Policy and Research (Member, Board of Directors, 1998-2002). Special Agencies: Commissioner, Maryland State Ethics Commission. Practice Areas: Corporate Law; Commercial Law; Bankruptcy Law; Mergers and Acquisitions.Email: Robert F. Scholz
Robert P. O'Brien (Partner) born 1951; admitted to bar, 1977, Maryland and U.S. District Court District of Maryland; 1978, U.S. Federal Court; 1980, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit. Education: Johns Hopkins University (B.A., Philosophy, 1973); University of Maryland School of Law (J.D., with honors, 1977) Notes and Comments Editor, Maryland Law Review, 1975-1977. Mr. O'Brien's practice is focused on admiralty and maritime law and the defense of claims in commercial litigation. He has had extensive experience in defending maritime claims (including cargo damage, collision, personal injury and death), inland marine claims, non-maritime trucking industry claims (including cargo damage, personal injury, death and coverage issues), claims involving warehousemen, freight forwarders, transportation brokers and terminal operators, as well as claims involving commercial contract disputes. He has served on the firm's Management Committee and as Chair of the firm's Litigation Section. He is the author of such articles as Admiralty Jurisdiction Over Pleasure Craft Torts, 36 Md. L. Rev. 212 and What You Need to Know About the Amended Wrongful Death Statute, The Defense Line, Spring, 1997. Mr. O'Brien has been a proctor member of the Maritime Law Association of the United States since 1981 and is currently a member of the MLA's Maritime Torts and Casualties Committee. Mr. O'Brien has also served as an Assistant Editor of American Maritime Cases since 1981. Member: The Bar Association of Baltimore City; Maryland State and American Bar Associations; Maritime Law Association of the United States; Maritime Law Association; Maritime Torts and Casualties Committee; Defense Research Institute; Trucking Law Committee. Reported Cases: Professional Communications, Inc. v. Contract Freighters International, 171 F.Supp 2d 546 (U.S. District Court, District of Maryland 2001); Murphy v. Edmonds, 325MD342 (Court of Appeals 1992); Consumer Protection Division v. Outdoor World Corporation, 91 Md. App. 275, 603 A.2d 1376 (Md. App. 1992); Mare Schiffahrtskontor GmbH & CO. KG v. MV OCEAN HAVEN, 763 F.2d 633 (4th Circuit 1985); Amstar Corp. v. M/V Alexander T.M, 472 F.Supp 1289 (U.S. District Court 1979). Practice Areas: Shipping; Trucking Law; Admiralty and Maritime Law; Transportation; Appellate Practice; Civil Appeals; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Professional Liability; Insurance; Accident Insurance; General Liability; Insurance Litigation; Personal Liability; Property Damage; Property Insurance; Property Insurance Coverage; Property Loss; Subrogation; Commercial Litigation; Complex Commercial Litigation.Email: Robert P. O'Brien
Christopher J. Heffernan (Partner) born 1956; admitted to bar, 1982, Maryland; 1984, District of Columbia and U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit. Education: University of Rhode Island (B.S., with distinction, Resource Economics, 1978); Washington College of Law of American University (J.D., 1982). Mr. Heffernan's practice focuses on civil litigation, including business, construction, surety, real estate, insurance and alternative dispute resolution. Mr. Heffernan has achieved the highest rating for legal ability in Martindale-Hubbell, awarded by peer review, for the highest standards of professional skill and ethics. He has also been selected, based on rigorous peer review, for inclusion in the 2008 and 2009 editions of The Best Lawyers in America in Construction Law, and has been named for professional achievement as a 2007-2009 Maryland Super Lawyer in construction litigation, business litigation and general litigation. Mr. Heffernan's extensive courtroom experience began in 1982 as a trial attorney with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Solicitor, where he defended claims covered by federal employment statutes. Since 1984, he has been in the private practice of law representing design professionals, contractors, developers, insurers, government entities, computer systems integrators, medical service and technology companies, environmental service companies, businesses and individuals in a variety of business, construction, real estate, eminent domain/condemnation, and insurance matters before state and federal courts, administrative bodies and alternative dispute resolution panels. Mr. Heffernan is a frequent lecturer on various legal topics, including design-build construction, green building and green legislation, defective bids and specifications, delay and inefficiency claims, drafting and negotiating contracts, construction claims, liability of owners, contractors and design professionals, alternative dispute resolution, construction defects, mediation, arbitration, mechanics' liens, payment bonds, and liability and ownership of CADD drawings. He is a Maryland Institute for Continuing Professional Education for Lawyers (MICPEL) Instructor in Construction Law, and is also an Instructor for Lorman Education Services, National Business Institute and the Construction Specifications Institute certification program. Mr. Heffernan has completed the MICPEL 40 Hour Mediation Training Course. He has been selected as a Court-Appointed Mediator for the Circuit Courts for Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Howard County and Montgomery County. Member: Maryland State Bar Association (Member, Sections: Alternative Dispute Resolution, 2000; Litigation; Council-Chair 2008-2009; Council Member 2000); Bar Association of Baltimore City; Frederick County Bar Association; Building Congress & Exchange; Maryland Municipal League, Charter Club Member; Maryland Municipal Attorneys Association; Construction Specifications Institute; Defense Research Institute; Leadership Anne Arundel (Board of Directors 2003-2005; Chair, Development Committee, 2000-2003); Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce; BWI Business Partnership. Practice Areas: Construction Law; Surety Law; Eminent Domain; Alternative Dispute Resolution; Appellate Practice; Civil Appeals; Business Law; Commercial Litigation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Condemnation; Insurance; Insurance Mediation; Real Estate; Real Estate Litigation; Construction Accidents; Construction and Design Law; Construction Insurance; Construction Insurance Defense; Construction Liability; Construction Litigation; Intellectual Property; Commercial Law; Commercial Liability; Government; Municipal Law.Email: Christopher J. Heffernan
Susan D. Baker (Partner) born 1955; admitted to bar, 1983, Maryland. Education: University of Pennsylvania (B.A., History, cum laude, 1977); Catholic University of America (J.D., 1983). Ms. Baker practices in the Corporation/Commercial Department. Her practice includes business law, contracts, business organizations, health care law, copyrights, and trademarks. Member: Maryland State (Member, Business and Health Law Sections) and American (Intellectual Property Law Section) Bar Assns. Languages: French. Practice Areas: Business Transactions; Intellectual Property; Corporate Law; Business Law; Copyrights; Health Care; Trademarks; Intellectual Property Litigation; Intellectual Property Rights; Internet Intellectual Property; Internet Copyright Law; Copyright Infringement; Copyright Licensing; Copyright Litigation; Copyright Prosecution; Copyright Protection; Copyright Registration; International Copyright Law.Email: Susan D. Baker
Matthew L. Kimball (Partner) admitted to bar, 1983, Rhode Island; 1987, Maryland. Education: University of Rhode Island (A.B., American Civilization, with honors, 1977; B.S., Resource Economics, with honors, 1978); Washington and Lee University School of Law (J.D., 1983) Member, Washington and Lee Law Review, 1981-1982. Mr. Kimball is chairman of the firm's Real Estate Department. His practice includes real estate, real estate finance, leasing, property management and real estate-related environmental law. He is a frequent contributor to The Daily Record, Real Estate Finance and other journals, writing on leasing, property management and other real estate issues. Mr. Kimball is the co-author of the text Property Manager's Guide to Commercial Real Estate Law, published by the BOMI Institute. Mr. Kimball is a Fellow of the American College of Mortgage Attorneys. He has also been recognized as a top attorney in real estate by Maryland SuperLawyers magazine. Member: Maryland State Bar Association (Member, Sections on: Planning and Zoning, Real Property; Environmental Law); International Conference of Shopping Centers; Building Owners and Managers Association of Baltimore Maryland Mortgage Bankers Association; Preservation Maryland President, Board of Directors. Fellow: American College of Mortgage Attorneys (Maryland State Chair). Practice Areas: Commercial Real Estate.Email: Matthew L. Kimball
David D. Gilliss (Partner) born 1958; admitted to bar, 1985, Maryland; 1986, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 1987, U.S. Court of Appeal, Fourth Circuit; 1990, U.S. Court of Federal Claims; 2004, U.S. Supreme Court. Education: College of Wooster (B.A., Political Science, with honors, 1980); University of Maryland School of Law (J.D., 1985) Assistant Editor, Maryland Law Review. Mr. Gilliss' practice focuses on surety, fidelity and construction related claims on behalf of sureties, fidelity carriers and construction companies. His practice includes general commercial and insurance defense litigation. Mr. Gilliss co-authored "Surety Bonds and Insurance in the Construction Industry," "Arbitration of Construction in Commercial Cases" and "Maryland Construction Law: What Do You Do When...?" and has written numerous articles and papers on surety, fidelity and construction-related issues. Mr. Gilliss has served as a member of the Board of Governors of the Maryland State Bar Association (1992-1994) and was a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Robert L. Karwacki of the Maryland Court of Appeals (Ret.) (then of the Court of Special Appeals). Member: Maryland State Bar Association (Member, Board of Governors 1992-1994; Fidelity and Surety Subcommittee, 1988-1994 of Secretary and Treasurer 1988-1994, Co-Founder). Fellow: Maryland Bar Foundation. Practice Areas: Fidelity and Surety; Construction Law; Commercial Litigation; Construction Contracts; Construction Liens; Appellate Practice; Civil Practice; Professional Liability.Email: David D. Gilliss
Susan B. Austin (Partner) born Coral Gables, Florida; admitted to bar, 1985, Maryland; 1994, U.S. Tax Court. Education: The College of William and Mary (B.A., 1980); College of William and Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of Law (J.D., 1984). Ms. Austin practices in the areas of estate planning and estate and trust administration. Former Member, Baltimore Estate Planning Council, 2004. Member: Maryland State Bar Association (Member, Estates and Trusts Section); American Bar Association (Member, Estates and Trusts Section). Practice Areas: Estate Planning; Estate Administration; Trust Administration.Email: Susan B. Austin
John C. Wetzel (Partner) admitted to bar, 1986, Maryland. Education: University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois (Bachelor of Science, Accounting, 1981, Master of Accounting Science, 1982); University of Illinois College of Law, Champaign, Illinois (J.D., 1985); University of Baltimore School of Law (L.L.M., Taxation, 1997). Mr. Wetzel practices in the areas of general business, commercial real estate and tax law. Mr. Wetzel is a certified public accountant and a member of the Bar of Maryland. He has broad experience in business transactions and in the on-going legal, tax and general business issues encountered by owners and financiers of businesses and commercial real estate. He represents businesses, financial institutions and individuals in a wide variety of business, commercial real estate and tax matters including: acquisition, sale and financing of businesses and commercial real estate; representation of landlords and tenants in commercial leases; representation of commercial real estate developers and lenders in commercial real estate loans, work-outs and foreclosures; and representation of businesses, individuals and non-profit organizations in various federal, state, and local tax matters. Certified Public Accountant, Illinois, 1982. Member: Bar Assn. of Baltimore City; Maryland State and American Bar Assns. Practice Areas: Commercial Real Estate; Tax Law; Commercial Real Estate Finance; Business Law.Email: John C. Wetzel
Paul M. Finamore (Partner) born 1963; admitted to bar, 1988, Maryland and U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 1992, U.S. Court of Appeals, District of Columbia and Federal Circuits; 1994, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit; 1999, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia; U.S. Court of Federal Claims. Education: Univ. of Notre Dame (B.A., 1985); Catholic Univ. of America (J.D., 1988). Mr. Finamore is Chair of the Firm's Diversity Committee. His practice in the Litigation Department concentrates in the areas of employment law and general liability. Mr. Finamore began practicing in employment law while serving on active duty in the US Army Judge Advocate Generals Corps at Aberdeen Proving Ground. He is the author of "The Employment Process, A Practical Guide." His litigation experience includes employment claims, various first and third party insurance claims, fraud and subrogation. Mr. Finamore has lectured extensively regarding the investigation of fraudulent claims. Mr. Finamore has been recognized as a top attorney in general litigation and employment and labor by Maryland Super Lawyers magazine. He is a member of the Maryland Association of Defense Trial Counsel and the Defense Research Institute, and is admitted to practice in Maryland and the District of Columbia. American Jurisprudence Award, Real Property. Member: Bar Association of Baltimore City; District of Columbia Bar; Maryland State (Member, Labor & Employment Section; Defense Research Institute) and American Bar Associations. [U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Corps, Assistant Staff Judge Advocate, 1989-1992]. Reported Cases: State Farm Fire & Cas. Co. v. Carter, 154 Md.App. 400 (Md. App. 2003) Remsburg v. Montgomery, 376 Md. 568 (Md. 2003) Bradley v. Boone, WL 1018689 (LRP Jury 1998) Salsberg v. Sullivan, 1996 WL 936310 (LRP Jury 1996) Allen v. Hill, 626 A.2d 875 (D.C. 1993) Walser v. Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 98 Md.App. 371 (Md. App. 1993) Alpha Graphics, Inc. v. State Department of Assessments and Taxation, TC-C 715 (Md. Tax Court 1993). Practice Areas: Labor and Employment; Insurance Coverage; Insurance Defense; Appellate Practice; Business Law; Commercial Law; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Insurance; Professional Liability; Labor Law; Employment Litigation; Employment Law; General Liability.Email: Paul M. Finamore
George E. Reede, Jr. (Partner) born 1965; admitted to bar, 1990, Maryland; 1991, District of Columbia, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland and U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit; 2000, U.S. Supreme Court; 2006, U.S. Court of Appeals District of Columbia Circuit and U.S. Court of Appeals Third Circuit. Education: Burks Scholar Cedarville College (B.A., with high honor, 1987); Washington and Lee University School of Law (J.D., 1990). COVERAGE ANALYSIS - Effective coverage analysis involves knowing how to apply policy language to the unique facts of each case. Mr. Reede regularly advises insurers on a variety of coverage issues. Having coauthored a commercial property insurance policy, he has a unique perspective on insurance policy interpretation. His experience as coverage counsel has included a wide variety of property insurance coverage, including computers and media, civil authority, builders risk and business interruption; liability insurance coverage issues, including the duty to defend in trademark and patent cases; many different businesses and industries, including chemical manufacturers, professional sports teams, airports and convention centers; over a thousand examinations under oath, many involving suspected insurance fraud. LITIGATION - Even the best coverage decisions are still subject to challenge, and litigation can be unavoidable. Mr. Reede has effectively represented insurers in federal and state courts, at both the trial and appellate level, and in administrative hearings. In addition to published cases, his experience includes: Complex property coverage litigation involving loss of income claims at 58 airports across the country, all arising from the events of 9/11; a variety of coverage cases relating to natural disasters; declaratory judgment actions regarding the duty to defend and indemnify an insured in trademark and patent litigation; subrogation litigation involving significant explosion, fire and water losses; administrative proceedings arising from complaints under Maryland's Unfair Claim Settlement Practices Act; national and international discovery, including depositions in 30 states, Israel, England and Canada. Mr. Reede regularly provides training as a service to his clients. This has included classes offered through CEU Institute for adjuster licensing requirements on topics such as ethical claims management, wind claim causation analysis, mold claims, and insurance fraud detection. He has also spoken at seminars and conferences on various property insurance issues. Member: Maryland State, District of Columbia and American (Property Insurance Committee; TIPS American Bar Association-Litigation Section) Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Property Insurance; Subrogation; Insurance Fraud; Insurance; Property Damage; Property Insurance Coverage; Property Loss; Insurance Contracts; Insurance Coverage; Insurance Litigation; Risk Management; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Litigation; Civil Litigation; Complex Litigation; Trial Practice; Insurance Bad Faith Defense.Email: George E. Reede, Jr.
Jeffrey A. Wothers (Managing Partner) born Dover, Delaware, 1965; admitted to bar, 1991, Maryland; 1992, District of Columbia, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland and U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit; 1994, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia and U.S. Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit; 2000, Pennsylvania, U.S. District Court, Middle and Eastern Districts of Pennsylvania and U.S. Court of Appeals Third Circuit; 2003, U.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania; 2008, West Virginia, U.S. District Court, Northern and Southern Districts of West Virginia. Education: Constitutional Law University of Maryland (B.A., Economics, 1988); University School of Law (J.D., 1991) Recipient, American Jurisprudence Award. Mr. Wothers is the Managing Partner at Niles, Barton & Wilmer. He practices in the Litigation Department concentrating in insurance coverage litigation, property insurance law, related first party insurance matters and commercial litigation. His experience includes investigation and litigation in various first party areas, including coverage disputes, arson and fraud investigations. Mr. Wothers has lectured extensively regarding investigation of fraudulent claims and insurance coverage. He also has extensive experience in subrogation. His liability/third party practice includes construction defect matters and commercial litigation involving business related matters. Mr. Wothers is a member of the American Bar Association's Property Insurance Law Committee, Intellectual Property Litigation Committee and Computer and Internet Litigation Committee. He is also a member of Defense Research institute and various intellectual property committees in Maryland, D.C. and Pennsylvania. Mr. Wothers practices in the state and federal courts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Member: Maryland State, Pennsylvania, District of Columbia and American (Tort and Insurance Practice Section) Bar Associations; National Association of Subrogation Professionals; Defense Research Institute; American Bar Association (Intellectual Property Litigation); Committee Computer and Internet Litigation Committee; Carroll Hospital Center, Chairman of the Risk; Audit and Compliance Committee; Cen-Mar Assurance Company, Board of Directors. Reported Cases: GLM Partnership v. Hartford Casualty Insurance Company, 753 A.2d 995 (District of Columbia Court of Appeals 2000). Practice Areas: Insurance Law; Insurance Defense; Insurance Bad Faith; Subrogation; Commercial Litigation; Appellate Practice; Civil Appeals; Corporate Litigation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Commercial Torts; Insurance; Fire Insurance; Fire Insurance Subrogation; Fire Loss; First and Third Party Insurance; First Party Insurance; General Liability; Insurance Fraud; Insurance Investigations; Insurance Litigation; Property Damage; Property Insurance; Property Insurance Coverage; Property Loss; Property Subrogation; Commercial Insurance; Commercial Property Insurance; Arson and Insurance Fraud; First and Third Party Insurance Defense; First Party Insurance Defense; Insurance Coverage Defense; Intellectual Property Litigation; Copyright Litigation; Copyright Prosecution; Civil Practice; Federal Civil Practice.Email: Jeffrey A. Wothers
Craig D. Roswell (Partner) born 1966; admitted to bar, 1991, Maryland; 1992, Virginia, District of Columbia, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland and U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia; 1994, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit and U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia; 2000, U.S. District Court, Western District of Virginia and U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Virginia. Education: Loyola College (B.A., 1988); Univ. of Baltimore (J.D., with honors, 1991). Recipient, American Jurisprudence Award, Federal Jurisdiction. Mr. Roswell is the Chair of the Litigation Department. He concentrates his practice on commercial litigation, property insurance law, first party insurance matters and the defense of general liability claims. Additionally, Mr. Roswell practices in the areas of bankruptcy and creditor's rights. His experience includes the investigation and litigation of various coverage issues, including arson, coverage interpretations, and fraud investigations. Mr. Roswell has been recognized as a top attorney in business litigation by Maryland SuperLawyers magazine and as a SmartLawyer by SmartCEO magazine. He is a member of the American Bar Association's Property Insurance Law Committee and the Defense Research Institute. Mr. Roswell is admitted to practice in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Member: Maryland State, Virginia State, District of Columbia and American Bar Assns.; American Bankruptcy Institute; Defense Research Institute. Reported Cases: Catalina Enterprises Pension Trust v. Hartford Fire Ins. Co., 67 F.3d 63 (4th Cir. 1995); Powell v. U.S.F.&G., 88 F.3d 271 (4th Cir. 1996). Practice Areas: Property Insurance; Commercial Litigation; Bankruptcy Litigation; First and Third Party Insurance; Appellate Practice; Civil Appeals; Bankruptcy; Business Law; Business Litigation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Insurance; Accident Insurance; Automobile Insurance; Commercial Insurance; Commercial Property Insurance; Fire Insurance; Fire Insurance Subrogation; Fire Loss; First Party Insurance; General Liability; Indemnity; Insurance Litigation; Insurance Mediation; Personal Liability; Property Damage; Property Insurance Coverage; Property Loss; Property Subrogation; Arson and Insurance Fraud; Automobile Insurance Defense; Automobile Liability Defense; First and Third Party Insurance Defense; Property Insurance Defense; Professional Liability; Creditors Rights; Insurance Bad Faith Defense; Complex Civil Litigation.Email: Craig D. Roswell
Bambi W. Stevens (Partner) born 1970; admitted to bar, 1995, Maryland; 1997, District of Columbia; 1996, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 2002, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia; 2005, U.S. Court of Appeals, 4th Circuit. Education: University of Baltimore School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1995); University of Maryland, College Park (B.S., 1992). Dean's List Major. Recipient: Architecture Honors Awards; American Jurisprudence Award, Commercial Transactions. With a degree in architecture, Ms. Stevens focuses her legal practice in the areas of construction and surety law. Her experience includes a wide variety of construction and surety-related matters, including contract review, mechanics' liens, construction defects, delay and impact claims, I-9 immigration compliance, performance and payment bond claims, and indemnification under general agreements of indemnity. In 2009, Maryland Super Lawyers named Ms. Stevens as a Rising Star in the areas of construction and surety law. Ms. Stevens is also a member of the American Arbitration Association's Commercial Panel of Arbitrators. Ms. Stevens serves on the Niles Barton Associate Relations Committee, and is the firm's Hiring Partner. Member: Maryland State and American (Member, Fidelity and Surety Law Committee) Bar Associations; Maryland Defense Counsel; Bar Association of Baltimore City; Defense Research Institute; Associated Builders and Contractors; National Association of Women in Construction. Practice Areas: Construction Law; Surety Law; Construction Insurance; Construction Insurance Defense; Construction Litigation; Construction and Surety Law; Construction Contracts; Construction Defects; Construction Liens; Construction Liability; Construction Accidents; Construction and Design Law.Email: Bambi W. Stevens
Joel P. Williams (Partner) born Washington, District of Columbia, 1965; admitted to bar, 1997, Maryland and U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 1999, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit; 2000, District of Columbia. Education: University of Maryland, Munich, Germany; University of Maryland (B.A., Economics, 1988); University of Baltimore School of Law, Baltimore, Maryland (J.D., magna cum laude, 1997) Member, University of Baltimore Law Review, 1994-1996. Mr. Williams' practice includes surety and fidelity law, insurance law, construction law and commercial litigation. His experience includes surety claims, fidelity coverage, litigation, and recovery matters, insurance receivership law, tort defense and contract disputes. He has argued cases before Maryland State and federal courts at both the trial and appellate level. He previously served as law clerk to the Hon. Lawrence H. Rushworth of the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County. Member: Baltimore City, Maryland State, Howard County and American Bar Associations; Fidelity and Surety Law Committee; St. Thomas More Society; Maryland Defense Counsel and Defense Research Institute; Fidelity and Surety Law Committee. Reported Cases: Schek v. NGM Ins. Co. (In Re. Schek), 397 Br. 752 (D. Md. 2008); Gray and Associates, LLC v. Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America, 2008 U.S. Dist. Lexis 23903 (U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland 2008); Carytown Jewelers v. St. Paul Travelers Ins. Cos., 2007 U.S. Dist., Lexis 3620 (U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia 2007); Williamson v. National Grange Mut. Ins. Co., 887 A.2d 665 (Ct. Spec. App. Of Maryland 2005); Author: Note: Van Horn v. Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., University of Baltimore Law Review, Vol. 25:2; Co-Author: The Salary Exclusion-A Fidelity Coverage Limitation Earns its Place, For the Defense, "Defense Research Institute," 2005. Practice Areas: Fidelity and Surety; Insurance Law; Construction Law; Fidelity and Surety Bonds; Appellate Practice; Professional Liability.Email: Joel P. Williams
Owen J. Curley (Partner) born 1965; admitted to bar, 1998, Maryland; 1999, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 2000, North Carolina and U.S. District Court, Eastern District of North Carolina; 2003, U.S. Supreme Court; 2004, District of Columbia and U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia. Education: Virginia Military Institute (B.A., 1987); Catholic Univ. Columbus School of Law (J.D., 1998). Mr. Curley practices in the Litigation Department, concentrating in commercial litigation, real estate litigation, maritime law, property insurance law, related first party insurance matters and general business litigation. Mr. Curley's practice includes insurance law, construction law, tort defense and contract disputes. He also has extensive experience in subrogation. His liability/third party practice includes intellectual property litigation as well as construction defect matters and commercial litigation involving business related matters. Mr. Curley practices in the state and federal courts of Maryland and North Carolina. He is a member of the American Bar Association's Intellectual Property Litigation Committee and the National Association of Subrogation Professionals. He previously served as law clerk to the Hon. Clayton Greene, Jr. of the Maryland Court of Special Appeals while Judge Greene was serving on the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County. Member: American Bar Association (Member, Intellectual Property Litigation Committee). [United States Navy Reserve, Captain, 20087; United States Navy Reserve, Commander, 1987-2008; United States Navy, Surface Warfare Officer, 1987-1997]. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Commercial Litigation; Real Estate Litigation; Admiralty and Maritime Law; Maritime Law; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Construction Law; Contracts; Copyrights; Intellectual Property; Internet Law; Personal Injury; Products Liability; Real Estate; Railroad Law; Trade Secrets; Tort Liability; Subrogation; First and Third Party Insurance; Appellate Practice; Civil Appeals; Condominium Association Law; Community Association Law; Condominium Law; Homeowners Association Law; Intellectual Property Litigation; Insurance Bad Faith.Email: Owen J. Curley
OF COUNSEL
A. Adgate Duer (Of Counsel) admitted to bar, 1941, Virginia; 1946, Maryland. Education: Princeton University (A.B., History, with honors, 1939); University of Virginia School of Law (LL.B., with honors, 1942) Member, University of Virginia Law Review, 1940-1942. Mr. Duer's practice includes all aspects of general corporate law as well as health care law. He has been active in numerous civic and professional activities. Member: Bar Association of Baltimore City; Maryland State and American Bar Associations. Fellow: Maryland Bar Foundation. Practice Areas: Trusts and Estates.Email: A. Adgate Duer
ASSOCIATES
Brett A. Buckwalter (Associate) born Lancaster, Pennsylvania; admitted to bar, 2000, Maryland; 2001, U.S. Dist. Court, Dist. of Maryland; 2002, District of Columbia; 2004, U.S. Dist. Court for the District of Columbia; 2005, U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Education: Univ. of Pittsburgh (B.S., 1997); Univ. of Maryland (J.D., 2000). Mr. Buckwalter practices in the litigation department, concentrating in general civil litigation and employment law, and has litigated cases at the trial and appellate levels in both state and federal courts. His litigation experience spans several areas of law, including various first and third party insurance claims, wrongful death/survival actions, employment discrimination, contract disputes, and products liability. In addition, he advises employers and human resources professionals regarding various state and federal employment statutes and regulations. He also works with employers in drafting employment agreements, handbooks, and policies for the workplace. Mr. Buckwalter is a member of the Defense Research Institute and the Maryland Defense Counsel. Member: Maryland State (Member, Sections on: Labor and Employment Law; Litigation Law; Negligence, Insurance and Worker's Compensation) and American (Sections on: Labor and Employment Law; Litigation; Tort, Trial and Insurance Practice) Bar Associations; District of Columbia Bar (Member, Sections on: Labor and Employment Law; Litigation); Defense Research Institute; Maryland Defense Counsel. Practice Areas: Insurance Defense; Labor and Employment; Contracts; Professional Liability; Products Liability; Toxic Torts; Personal Injury; Wrongful Death; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Employment Law; Employment Litigation; First and Third Party Insurance.Email: Brett A. Buckwalter
Leslie John Williams (Associate) born Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, May 14, 1971; admitted to bar, 1997, Maryland; 2003, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 2004, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit. Education: Johns Hopkins University (B.A., 1993); George Washington University (J.D., 1996); University of Baltimore (LL.M., Taxation, 2005). Practice Areas: Trusts and Estates.Email: Leslie John Williams
Christopher D. Wolf (Associate) born Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 1974; admitted to bar, 2000, Maryland; 2007, Pennsylvania. Education: Temple University, Philadelphia, PA (B.A., magna cum laude, Justice System Services, 1997); University of Baltimore School of Law, Baltimore, Maryland (J.D., cum laude, 2000). Mr. Wolf practices in the Litigation Department concentrating on property insurance law. His practice includes arson and insurance fraud investigation, Maryland condominium law, contract disputes, insurance law, and tort defenses. Mr. Wolf practices in the state and federal courts of Maryland and Pennsylvania. Practice Areas: Litigation; Subrogation; Property Insurance; Admiralty and Maritime Law; Maritime Law; Commercial Law; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Professional Liability; First and Third Party Insurance; Tort Defense.Email: Christopher D. Wolf
Eric G. Korphage (Associate) born 1975; admitted to bar, 2001, Maryland; 2003, District of Columbia; 2005, U.S. Dist. Court, Dist. of Maryland; 2006, U.S. Dist. Court for the District of Columbia. Education: University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware (B.A., Criminal Justice, 1997); Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania State University, Carlisle, Pennsylvania (J.D., 2001) Dean's List; Alpha Kappa Delta Honor Society; Recipient, ABA Urban, State and Local Government Award; Senior Editor, Dickinson Law Review, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, 1997. Mr. Korphage is a member of the Litigation Department and focuses his practice on commercial litigation, including construction, surety and fidelity law, as well as appellate law. In 2009, Super Lawyers Magazine named Mr. Korphage a Rising Star in the areas of construction and surety law. Mr. Korphage has first and second chair trial and arbitration experience and represents general contractors, sureties, engineers and subcontractors in wide variety of construction and surety matters, including mechanic's liens, payment and performance bond claims, construction defect claims, delay and inefficiency claims, and prompt payment and trust fund violation claims. Mr. Korphage also has experience in condemnation proceedings and receivership law, including litigation and matters involved with a decade long fraud committed upon a Maryland State agency and a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme with the perpetrator of the fraud allegedly investing in speculative real estate. Prior to joining Niles Barton, Mr. Korphage was an attorney at The Travelers Companies, Inc. and the St. Paul Companies, Inc. focusing on surety claims and a Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable Joseph F. Murphy, Jr., Court of Appeals of Maryland (then Chief Judge of the Court of Special Appeals), and the Honorable Pamela L. North, Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Mr. Korphage attended the Dickinson School of Law of Pennsylvania State University where he was member of the Dickinson Law Review and Dickinson's National Trial Team. Member: Maryland State (Section of Litigation), District of Columbia and American (Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section; Fidelity & Surety Law Committee) Bar Associations; Defense Research Institute; Maryland Defense Counsel. Practice Areas: Construction Law; Fidelity and Surety; Commercial Litigation; Appellate Practice; Civil Appeals.Email: Eric G. Korphage
Jason E. Fetterman (Associate) born Spangler, Pennsylvania, 1976; admitted to bar, 2002, Pennsylvania; 2006, Maryland, U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit and U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Pennsylvania; 2008, West Virginia. Education: Pennsylvania State Univ. (B.A., with high distinction, 1998); George Washington Univ. (J.D., 2001). Mr. Fetterman practices in the Litigation Department, focusing on complex commercial, business, and contractual matters throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. He also has extensive experience successfully briefing and arguing appeals, including numerous cases before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Prior to joining Niles Barton, Mr. Fetterman served as a prosecutor with the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office. He currently practices before the state and federal courts in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. Reported Cases: Commonwealth v. Carson, 913 A.2d 220 (Pa. 2006) Commonwealth v. Matthew, 909 A.2d 1254 (Pa. 2006) Commonwealth v. Frye, 909 A.2d 853 (Pa. Super. 2006) Commonwealth v. Jefferson, 853 A.2d 404 (Pa. Super. 2006) Commonwealth v. The Real Property and Improvements Commonly Known 648 West Mayfield Street, Philadelphia, Pa., 819 A.2d 1226 (Pa. Commonwealth. 2003). Practice Areas: Appellate Practice; Commercial Litigation; Insurance Defense; Subrogation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Insurance Bad Faith Defense; First and Third Party Insurance Defense; Civil Litigation; Property Insurance.Email: Jason E. Fetterman
Mark J. Stiller (Associate) born Wilmington, Delaware, 1969; admitted to bar, 2003, Maryland. Education: Towson University, Towson (B.A., Mass Communications, 1992); University of Baltimore School of Law (J.D., 2003). Mr. Stiller practices in the Litigation Department concentrating in general liability, property insurance law, related first party insurance law matters and subrogation. He practices in the state courts of Maryland. Prior to joining Niles, Barton & Wilmer, LLP, Mr. Stiller was a claims adjuster specializing in litigation defense claims, homeowner liability claims and first and third party recreational watercraft claims. Member: Maryland State Bar Assn. Practice Areas: Subrogation; Insurance Litigation; Property Insurance; Civil Litigation; Professional Liability; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; General Liability; First and Third Party Insurance.Email: Mark J. Stiller
Tracy L. Steedman (Associate) born Montebello, California; admitted to bar, 2003, Maryland; 2004, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland; 2005, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit. Education: Towson University (B.A., 2000); University of Maryland School of Law (J.D., 2003). Ms. Steedman practices in the Litigation Department, concentrating on commercial construction-related civil litigation. She has litigated cases at the trial and appellate levels in both state and federal courts. Her experience includes a wide variety of litigation matters, including fair housing disputes, mechanics' liens, condemnation matters, construction defects, impact and delay claims, MOSH liability, bid protests, and warranty disputes. Ms. Steedman is designated as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP™) by the U.S. Green Building Council. Her LEED AP designation allows clients to earn one point toward LEED Certification for their projects. She also advises clients on green building incentive-based and regulatory requirements and represents clients in adversarial proceedings. Member: American Bar Association (Member of the Forum on the Construction Industry, the Litigation and YLD Sections, 2003); Bar Association of Baltimore City (Member, Bench/Bar Committee, 2008-2009); Baltimore County Bar Association (Member, 2003); Building Congress and Exchange (Member, Ambassador Committee); Maryland State Bar Association (Member: Leadership Academy Committee, 2008); Leadership Academy Fellow (Project Manager, Beyond the Bars: A Symposium on Reentry in Maryland, 2007-2008); Young Lawyers Section ("YLS") Council (Co-Chair of the Education Committee, 2008-2009); Construction Law Committee of the Real Property Section (Chair of the Publications Committee, 2007); Membership Committee (Member, 2008); The MICPEL Restructuring and Transition Taskforce (Member, 2009); Women's Bar Association of Maryland, Inc. (Board Member and Co-Chair, Judicial Selections Committee, 2008-2009); Membership Committee of the Baltimore City/County and Carroll County Chapter of the Women's Bar Association (Chair, 2008-2009). Reported Cases: MSBA Real Property Sections' Construction Law Committee Case and Legislative Summary 2007-2008, Acting as Publications Committee Chair and Executive Editor, Feb. 2009; Practice Manual for the Maryland Lawyer, 3rd Ed. with 2008 Update, The Maryland Institute for Continuing Professional Education of Lawyers, Inc. (MICPEL), Contributing Author, Editor and YLS Coordinator, Oct. 2008; 'No Damage for Delay' Clauses and Your Right of Recovery, The Contractor's Compass, American Subcontractors Association, Inc., Dec. 2005; Republished in the Fire Protection Contractor Magazine, Haden Brumbeloe, P.E., February 2006; Republished in BUSINESS CREDIT, National Association of Credit Management, April 2006; Indemnification Clauses: Limiting Your Liability, CONSTRUCTION MONTHLY REVIEW, Adam C. Harrison, P.C., March 2004; Compliance Tips for the New 3% Withholding Law (since repealed), CONSTRUCTION MONTHLY REVIEW, Adam C. Harrison, P.C., Nov. 2003. Practice Areas: Litigation; Construction Law; Construction Claims; Construction Contracts; Construction Defects; Construction Liens; Construction Litigation; Contractors Liability; Mechanics Liens; Appellate Practice; Commercial Law; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Fidelity and Surety; Commercial Litigation.Email: Tracy L. Steedman
M. David Stallings (Associate) born Lynchburg, Virginia, 1977; admitted to bar, 2003, Maryland; 2006, U.S. District Court, District of Maryland. Education: University of Richmond (B.S.B.A., 1999); University of Maryland (J.D., 2003). Mr. Stallings practices in the Litigation Department focusing primarily on commercial, contractual, and insurance matters. His experience also includes estate administration, creditor's rights and family law, including adoptions and Qualified Domestic Relations Orders. He is a former law clerk of the Circuit Court for Baltimore County and has handled cases throughout the State of Maryland. Member: Baltimore County, Maryland State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Complex Litigation; Trial Practice; Estate Administration; Adoptions, Qualified Domestic Relations Orders, Family Law; Bankruptcy; Construction Law; Insurance; Commercial Litigation.Email: M. David Stallings
Geneau M. Thames (Associate) born New York, New York; admitted to bar, 2004, Maryland; 2005 U.S. District Court, District of Maryland. Education: Towson State University (B.S., Political Science and Economics, 1999); University of Baltimore School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 2004). Ms. Thames practices in the litigation department, concentrating in general liability, professional liability, property insurance law, related first party insurance matters and commercial litigation. Her experience includes first and third-party claims and fraud investigation. Ms. Thames co-chairs the firm's Women's Committee and is also a member of the firm Hiring Committee. Member: Maryland State and American (Tort and Insurance Practice Sections, 2004) Bar Associations; Defense Research Institute; Association of Trial Lawyers of America; Alliance of Black Women Lawyers in Maryland. Practice Areas: Litigation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Insurance; Professional Liability; Insurance Defense; General Liability Defense; Insurance Defense Subrogation; General Liability; Personal Injury Defense; Professional Liability Defense; Insurance Coverage; Insurance Litigation.Email: Geneau M. Thames
Heather Benson Nelson (Associate) born Baltimore, Maryland; admitted to bar, 2004, Pennsylvania; 2006, Maryland. Education: Columbia College, Columbia University (B.A., English, 2001); Villanova University School of Law, Villanova, Pennsylvania (J.D., 2004). Heather Benson Nelson is an associate in the Litigation Department. She practices in the areas of commercial litigation, complex civil litigation, intellectual property litigation and insurance law. Prior to joining Niles, Barton & Wilmer, Ms. Nelson was an Assistant District Attorney for the City of Philadelphia, where she focused her practice on litigating appeals in the Pennsylvania Superior and Supreme Courts. She is a May 2004 graduate from the Villanova University School of Law. Practice Areas: Litigation; Appellate Practice; Commercial Litigation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Insurance Litigation; Intellectual Property; Professional Liability; Intellectual Property Litigation; Civil Litigation.Email: Heather Benson Nelson
Inana T. Blankson (Associate) born 1978; admitted to bar, 2005, Maryland; 2007, District of Columbia. Education: Univ. of Virginia (B.A., 2000); Univ. of Maryland (J.D., with honors, 2005). Ms. Blankson is an associate in the Corporate Law Department. She practices in the areas of business and corporate law and mergers and acquisitions. Prior to joining Niles Barton, Ms. Blankson was a Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable David W. Young in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City. Member: Bar Association of Baltimore City; Maryland State (Member, Sections on: Business Law; Litigation) and American (Member, Sections on: Business Law; Litigation) Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Business Law; Business Litigation; Contracts; Mergers, Acquisitions and Divestitures; Bankruptcy; Insurance; Corporate Law; Commercial Law; Creditors Rights.Email: Inana T. Blankson
Kate E.S. Haaf (Associate) admitted to bar, 2007, Maryland. Education: University of Maryland (B.A., cum laude, 2003); University of Baltimore School of Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 2007). Dean's List. Heuisler Honor Society. Recipient: Criminal Justice Honors Program; Scholars Program; Beyond the Classroom; Central Judiciary Board; President, Criminal Justice Student Association President, Senior Class; Assistant Articles Editor, University of Baltimore Law Forum; Student Bar Association President, 2006-2007. Kate E. S. Haaf is an Associate in the Litigation Department. Prior to joining Niles, Barton & Wilmer, Ms. Haaf was a law clerk for the Honorable Carol E. Smith in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City. She is a 2007 graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law. Member: The Bar Association of Baltimore City; Maryland State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Insurance; Property Insurance; Subrogation; Insurance Litigation.Email: Kate E.S. Haaf
Courtney M. Mattson (Associate) admitted to bar, 2007, Maryland. Education: West Virginia University (B.A., Political Science, summa cum laude); University of Baltimore School of Law (J.D., cum laude) Member, Family Law Moot Court Team. Dean's List. Ms. Mattson is an Associate in the Litigation Department. She is a 2007 graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law. Member: Maryland Bar Association. Practice Areas: Litigation; Complex and Multi-District Litigation; Insurance Defense; Automobile Insurance Defense; Automobile Liability Defense; Casualty Insurance Defense; Commercial Insurance Defense; Insurance Defense Subrogation; Personal Liability Defense; Property Damage Defense; Property Insurance Defense; Construction Litigation; Property Insurance; Subrogation; Civil Litigation.Email: Courtney M. Mattson