George R. Hardin (Member) born Paterson, New Jersey, October 28, 1946; admitted to bar, 1974, New Jersey; 1981, New York; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey and the Southern District of New York; U.S. Court of Appeals, Second and Third Circuits; U.S. Supreme Court. Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., 1968; J.D., cum laude, 1974). Certified Civil Trial Attorney: Mr. Hardin is a cum laude graduate of Seton Hall University School of Law and a former Judicial Law Clerk in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County. Prior to his law career, Mr. Hardin was employed as a Labor Relations Representative for General Motors Corporation. At that time, he gained extensive corporate experience, including a working knowledge of manufacturing processes and the labor field. Mr. Hardin is admitted to the New Jersey and New York State Bars, the Bar of the United States District Courts for the District of New Jersey and the Southern District of New York, the Bar of the United States Courts of Appeals for the Second and Third Circuits, and the Bar of the United States Supreme Court. He is a litigation and appellate attorney with extensive experience in matters involving insurance coverage, professional liability and errors and omissions claims, product liability and construction claims. He represents clients in mediation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution proceedings. Mr. Hardin has been handling insurance and product liability cases since first entering the practice of law, and has had extensive involvement in multi-party environmental, toxic tort, and asbestos litigation cases which have arisen over the past three decades. He has also been involved in defending claims against public entities and public employees under Title 59, the New Jersey Tort Claims Act.
Mr. Hardin is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney. He has successfully conducted, through trial and appeal, many cases involving large exposures and significant issues to the Firm's clients. He oversees the Firm's litigation practice encompassing multi-party, complex, high exposure cases. Member: Essex County (Past Trustee; Past Chair, Legal/Medical Committee; Past Member, Products Liability Committee), Union County (Member, Judicial and Prosecutorial Appointments Committee), New Jersey State (Past Member, Appellate Practice Committee, 1983-1999) and American (Member, Tort and Insurance Practice Section) Bar Associations; Defense Research Institute. (Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney) (Also at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and New York, New York Offices). Practice Areas: Insurance Litigation; Alternative Dispute Resolution; Mediation; Product Liability; Professional Liability; Multi Party Environmental Toxic Tort and Asbestos Litigation.Email: George R. Hardin
Janet L. Poletto (Member) born Spring Valley, New York, January 10, 1955; admitted to bar, 1980, New Jersey. Education: Bucknell University (B.A., Psychology, highest honors, magna cum laude, 1976); Georgetown University Law Center (J.D., 1980). Certified Civil Trial Attorney: Ms. Poletto is a 1976 graduate of Bucknell University, where she earned her B.A. magna cum laude with Special Recognition and Highest Honors in Psychology. In 1980, Ms. Poletto graduated from Georgetown University Law Center and was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar that same year.
Ms. Poletto has been primarily engaged as a civil litigation attorney, working on matters involving all aspects of defense litigation and the analysis and litigation of coverage issues. Ms. Poletto has also had significant involvement in analyzing and litigating questions relating to insurance coverage including issues of bad faith and extra contractual claims and has developed special expertise in the analysis and litigation of insurance coverage disputes relating to environmental and latent injury claims. Her involvement with environmental and mass tort Coverage litigation dates back to the mid 1980s and she has been extensively engaged in litigating these issues since then. Her experience includes the trial of a number of significant pollution coverage cases and she is counsel of record in a number of appellate division decisions in New Jersey addressing pollution coverage issues.
Ms. Poletto also extensive in litigating matters in the fields of professional liability, including medical malpractice, biomedical and medical device claims, legal malpractice and broker malpractice claims. Ms. Poletto has further handled the defense of products liability, construction, environmental liability, toxic tort, chemical exposure, asbestos and other mass tort claims. She has experience, as well, in the litigation of claims arising out of employment discrimination, wrongful discharge and sexual harassment under both federal and state statutes.
Her practice includes the appeal of litigated matters and she has extensive experience in representing clients in mediation, arbitration and other forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Ms. Poletto is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney having successfully litigated, through trial and appeal, a significant number of cases.
Ms. Poletto's decades of litigation experience has culminated in intensive involvement in high exposure, multi-party litigation, including the litigation of class actions and matters handled through the Federal Multi-District Litigation program. In a number of these matters, she has been appointed to serve as defense liaison counsel, acting as the conduit on behalf of the defense in communications with the court and plaintiff's counsel. Member: Ocean County, New Jersey State and American (Member, Civil Trial Section) Bar Associations. (Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney). Practice Areas: Medical Malpractice; Insurance Coverages; Environmental Insurance Coverage.Email: Janet L. Poletto
Mark S. Kundla (Member) born Newark, New Jersey, August 12, 1956; admitted to bar, 1981, New Jersey; 1990, New York; U.S. District Court, District of New York and Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; U.S. Court of Appeals, Second and Third Circuits; U.S. Supreme Court. Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., cum laude, 1978); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1981). Certified Civil Trial Attorney: Mr. Kundla graduated Seton Hall University in 1978, receiving his B.A. degree cum laude after earning Honor's List distinction and Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society membership throughout his collegiate years. In 1981, Mr. Kundla received his J.D. degree cum laude from Seton Hall University School of Law, where he was Associate Editor of the Law Journal. Following graduation, he served as Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable John J. Geronimo, Civil Assignment Judge, Hudson County.
Mr. Kundla is admitted to the New Jersey and New York State Bars, the Bar of the United States District Courts, Districts of New Jersey, and the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York, the Bar of the United States Court of Appeals, for the Second and Third Circuits, and the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Kundla has focused his practice on defense litigation largely in the fields of Product Liability, Fire and Explosion, Professional Liability, including attorney malpractice and brokers errors and omissions. His litigation unit also is responsible for Transportation Law, Construction Law, Business and Commercial Law, General Negligence Claims, including claims against public entities under Title 59 of the New Jersey Tort Claims Act.
Mr. Kundla is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney. He has successfully tried numerous complex products liability and accident reconstruction cases, achieving outstanding results for the Firm's clients. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations; Defense Research Institute; LP Gas Defense Association. (Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney). Practice Areas: Products Liability; Insurance Law; Professional Liability; Fire and Explosions; Construction Claims; General Negligence; Claims against Public Entities.Email: Mark S. Kundla
John F. McKeon (Member) born Montclair, New Jersey, June 3, 1958; admitted to bar, 1983, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Muhlenberg College (B.A., cum laude, 1980); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 1983). Certified Civil Trial Attorney: In 1980, Mr. McKeon received his B.A. cum laude from Muhlenberg College, where he was President of the Student Lobby and a member of the Student Congress. Mr. McKeon earned his J.D. degree from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1983. At graduation, he was the recipient of the Peter Rodino Law Society Outstanding Student Award. He then served as Judicial Clerk to the Honorable Joseph M. Thuring, Superior Court of New Jersey, Hudson County and formerly as a Legislative Aide to Congressman Joseph G. Minish. Mr. McKeon presently serves as Mayor to the Town of West Orange, New Jersey and as Assemblyperson representing the 27th Legislative District. He is chairperson of the New Jersey State Assembly Committee on the Environment and Solid Waste, and serves as a member of the Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee. He was formerly Legislative Counsel to New Jersey State Senate President, Richard J. Codey.
Mr. McKeon was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, in 1983. Mr. McKeon practices in the fields of medical malpractice, human services, institutional health care liability, general negligence and commercial law, and has vast experience in municipal, county and State public sector law and governmental issues. He has extensive experience in litigation involving professional liability, with emphasis on medical malpractice, and he is Certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Civil Trial Attorney. He has been involved in all phases of real estate and land use matters. In 1987, Mr. McKeon was appointed to serve as counsel to the Township of West Orange Board of Adjustment.
In 1988, in recognition of his distinguished professional achievement, service to the bar and service to the community, Mr. McKeon was awarded the distinction of "Young Lawyer of the Year" by the New Jersey State Bar Association. Mr. McKeon was previously the recipient of the Essex County Bar Association Award for Meritorious Service to the Public in 1985-86. He has been named to Who's Who in American Law and was nominated to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court Committee on Civil Practice. Member: Essex County (Former Board of Trustees; Past Chair: Young Lawyer's Section; Community Service Committee) and New Jersey State (Former Executive Committee; Young Lawyer's Section Representative to American Bar Association House of Delegates) Bar Associations; Children's Right Project (Past Chair). (Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney). Practice Areas: Medical Malpractice; Health Care; Hospital Law; Real Estate; Commercial Law.Email: John F. McKeon
Nicea J. D'Annunzio (Member) born Belleville, New Jersey, July 19, 1962; admitted to bar, 1985, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Fairleigh Dickinson University (B.S., Biology, magna cum laude); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1985). Ms. D'Annunzio, a member of Phi Omega Epsilon Honor Society and Tri Beta Biological Honor Society, is a magna cum laude graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a Chemistry minor. In 1985, Ms. D'Annunzio graduated cum laude from Seton Hall University School of Law and was a Finalist in the Seton Hall University School of Law Appellate Advocacy Competition.
Admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey in 1985, Ms. D'Annunzio has been with Hardin Kundla, Mckeon & Poletto law firm since 1986. Prior to joining the Firm, during the judicial year 1985-1986, she served as the Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Stanley G. Bedford, a Judge of Civil Law and an Acting Assignment Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County.
As a toxic tort litigation attorney Ms. D'Annunzio has been involved in the defense of corporations involving products such as asbestos, beryllium, lead, industrial chemicals, silica and solvents. In her capacity as national counsel to a leading wire & cable manufacturer in their defense of asbestos litigation, for over a decade, Ms. D'Annunzio has been on the cutting edge of toxic tort litigation and trends nationwide. She also has been Joint Medical Counsel for Defendants in Asbestos Lawsuits pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey - Middlesex County.
Ms. D'Annunzio has also been involved in environment litigation involving the NJ Spill Act Claims and landfill clean-up and remediation.
Products liability matters including industrial equipment, playground equipment and automobiles, has also been an area of practice in which Ms. D'Annunzio has been involved through the years.
Additionally, Ms. D'Annunzio has represented defendants such as engineers, architects, suppliers, contractors and EIFS manufacturers in construction litigation in New Jersey.
A 1990 recipient of the New Jersey State Bar Association Young Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year, Service to the Community" Award, Ms. D'Annunzio has been actively involved in community service. She is a past contributing Editor for The Dictum, the New Jersey Young Lawyers Newsletter and had been a regular contributor to The Chronicle, the Essex County Bar Association publication. Ms. D'Annunzio has also participated in third world country medical missions, as a volunteer.
As a former Barrister in the Arthur T. Vanderbilt American Inns of Court, Ms. D'Annunzio has trained new attorneys in the State of New Jersey and she has been named to Who's Who in American Law and the New Jersey Super Lawyer publication.
Pi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. Speaker: "Spoliation of Evidence," Institute of Continuing Legal Education; "Expert Issues Regarding the Supreme Court Decision in Daubert," Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Member: Essex County (Pat Member: Young Lawyers Executive Committee; Public Relations Committee), New Jersey State and American Bar Associations; Essex County Legal Aid Association (Trustee). Practice Areas: Products Liability; Toxic Tort; Commercial Litigation; Environmental Litigation; Construction Claims.Email: Nicea J. D'Annunzio
John S. Favate (Member) born Jersey City, New Jersey; admitted to bar, 1985, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit. Education: St. Peter's College (B.A., History); University of Bridgeport School of Law (J.D., 1985). Since joining the firm in 1986, Mr. Favate has developed a diverse litigation practice that encompasses insurance coverage and bad faith litigation, toxic torts, mass torts, environmental and pollution liability, employment practice claims and complex litigation. Mr. Favate handles all phases of litigation in state and federal courts at the trial and appellate levels in multiple jurisdictions. Mr. Favate's clients include insurers and corporations of all sizes.
Mr. Favate was born in Jersey City, New Jersey and is a graduate of St. Peter's College where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and earned Dean's List recognition in each semester during his Junior and Senior years. In 1985, Mr. Favate graduated from the University of Bridgeport School of Law, where he was the recipient of the 1983 American Jurisprudence Award for Academic Achievement in Torts. Mr. Favate became a member of the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United District Court, District of New Jersey, in 1985. He is a member of the bar of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Mr. Favate served as the Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Frank A. Piscatella, Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Insurance Coverage; Employment Law; Construction Claims; Negligence.Email: John S. Favate
Patrick J. Clare (Member) born Newark, New Jersey, September 23, 1960; admitted to bar, 1986, New Jersey; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1988, U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit. Education: Fordham University (B.A., Political Science, cum laude, 1982); St. Louis University (J.D., 1986). Mr. Clare is a 1982 cum laude graduate of Fordham University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a minor in Spanish. Mr. Clare went on to earn his J.D. degree from St. Louis University in 1986. Thereafter, he served as Law Secretary to the Honorable Edward F. Neagle, Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County.
Prior to becoming Partner at the firm, Mr. Clare served three (3) years as an Assistant Prosecutor in Morris County, New Jersey, where he served as the Morris County Juvenile Prosecutor and as a member of the Adult Trial Unit. He gained extensive trial experience from his responsibilities and developed a specialized ability in prosecuting cases of vehicular homicide.
Since becoming Partner at the firm, Mr. Clare has handled all types of general liability cases from discovery through and including trial. Special emphasis has been placed in the field of medical malpractice and hospital liability claims. He also has been selected to serve as an arbitrator in uninsured and underinsured arbitrations. A portion of Mr. Clare's practice involves criminal defense in both Municipal and Superior Court matters and the defense of health care practitioners in state administrative proceedings. He has also lectured extensively on the topic of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
Mr. Clare was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey in 1986. He was admitted to the Bar of the United States Court of Appeals, Third Circuit, in 1988. Member: Essex County, New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Languages: Spanish. Practice Areas: Criminal Law; Transportation Claims; Medical Malpractice; Auto Liability; General Liability.Email: Patrick J. Clare
Jeffrey A. Oshin (Member) born Plainfield, New Jersey, June 30, 1964; admitted to bar, 1990, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Brandeis University (B.A., Politics, 1987); DePaul University College of Law (J.D., 1990). Mr. Oshin earned a B.A. in Politics from Brandeis University in 1987. He received his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law in June, 1990 and served a judicial clerkship for the Honorable William A. Dreier, Superior Court of New Jersey, Appellate Division. Mr. Oshin was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, in December 1990.
Co-Author: "Raising the Threshold Question of Whether Product Warnings are an Effective Means of Preventing Injury: A Critique on the Developing Law Pertaining to the Manufacturer's Duty to Warn," American Law Firm Association, National Client Seminar. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; General Negligence; Construction Accident Claims; Personal Injury Protection Litigation.Email: Jeffrey A. Oshin
Paul Daly (Member) born Bronx, New York, September 4, 1968; admitted to bar, 1995, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Rutgers College (B.A., History and English, 1990); Rutgers School of Law (J.D., 1995). Mr. Daly graduated from Rutgers College in 1990 with a B.A. in History and English. He received his J.D. from Rutgers School of Law, Newark, in 1995 where he served as an Associate Editor for the Rutgers Journal of Law, Computers and Technology. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Daly served as law clerk for the Honorable Rocco L. D'Ambrosio, Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris County.
Mr. Daly was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey in 1995.
Mr. Daly has focused his practice on defense litigation largely in the fields of Product Liability, Fire and Explosion, Professional Liability, including attorney malpractice and brokers' errors and omissions. His litigation unit also is responsible for Transporting Law, Construction Law, Business and Commercial Law, General Negligence Claims, including claims against public entities under Title 59 of the New Jersey Tort Claims Act. Member: Morris County and New Jersey State Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Warranty; Products Liability; Professional Negligence; Fire Loss; Explosions; Gas Explosions; Lemon Law.Email: Paul Daly
Stephen J. Donahue (Member) born Portland, Maine, January 18, 1964; admitted to bar, 1995 New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1996, New York and U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Education: Kean University (B.A., Economics and Political Science, 1992); Seton Hall University (J.D., 1995). Mr. Donahue graduated from Kean University in 1991 with a B.A. in Economics and Political Science. Mr. Donahue went on to Seton Hall University School of Law where he earned his J.D. in 1995. Also in 1995, Mr. Donahue was admitted to the Bar of the State of New Jersey, as well as the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. He was admitted to the Bar of the State of New York as well as the United States District Court for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York in 1996.
Mr. Donahue practices in the areas of civil and commercial litigation including products liability, general negligence, personal injury and insurance coverage. Member: New Jersey State Bar Association. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Commercial Litigation; Products Liability; General Negligence; Personal Injury; Insurance Coverage.Email: Stephen J. Donahue
John R. Scott (Member) born Somerville, New Jersey, January 5, 1964; admitted to bar, 1989, New Jersey; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Lafayette College (B.A., Economics, 1986); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1989). Certified Civil Trial Attorney: Mr. Scott is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney. He is a Cum Laude graduate of Seton Hall University School of Law where he received his degree in 1989. He received his Bachelors Degree in Economics from Lafayette College in 1986.
Mr. Scott's practice involves personal injury litigation and complex civil litigation including: Product Liability Claims, Construction Litigation, Professional Liability Claims, Insurance Coverage Disputes, Automobile Accident Claims and Premises Liability Claims. He has over a decade of experience as a trial attorney and has practiced throughout New Jersey. He is admitted to practice before Courts in the State of New Jersey and before the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. (Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney). Practice Areas: Personal Injury Litigation; Complex Civil Litigation; Product Liability Claims; Construction Litigation; Professional Liability Claims; Insurance Coverage Disputes; Automobile Accident Claims; Premises Liability Claims.Email: John R. Scott
OF COUNSEL
Edward Zampino (Of Counsel) admitted to bar, 1980, New Jersey. Education: Montclair State College (B.A., 1976); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 1980). Edward Zampino is of Counsel of the firm. He is nationally regarded for his specialization in the insurance policy "drafting history" and "regulatory estoppel" issues that have significantly impacted insurance coverage litigation. He headed National Strategic Initiatives for a major casualty insurer. Edward also directed a nationwide Amicus Curiae Program. He participated in virtually every Supreme Court and federal or state appellate court case interpreting pollution exclusions, achieving victories that include the unprecedented reversal of the Florida Supreme Court decision in Dimmitt, the Oklahoma Supreme Court decision in Kerr-McGee, the Sinclair Oil decision rendered by the Wyoming Supreme Court, the California Court of Appeals decision in ACL Technologies, the Washington Supreme Court decision in Alcoa, the decision of the New York Court of Appeals in Northville, the Texas Supreme Court decision in CBI Industries, the Delaware Supreme Court decision in DuPont, and many federal circuit court decisions.
Edward has written 15 articles on environmental coverage issues and provides expert consultation to insurers and their counsel across the country. He also provides expert reports and testimony in connection with pollution exclusion issues in environmental coverage litigation.
Edward also litigates significant cases in other coverage fields in conjunction with the firm's insurance department. He handled some of the largest coverage cases in the country, including the General Electric, Waste Management and Bethlehem Steel litigations.
Edward earned his bachelor of arts degree at Montclair State University in 1976 and his law degree at Seton Hall University School of Law in 1980, where he was the recipient of the American Jurisprudence Award. He was admitted to practice in New Jersey in 1980. He served as a law clerk to the Honorable John G. Geronimo, Civil Assignment Judge of the New Jersey Superior Court, Hudson County. Practice Areas: Appellate; Bad Faith Litigation; Commercial General Liability; Commercial Litigation; Construction Liability; Directors' and Officers' Liability; Environmental Coverage; Excess and Surplus Lines; Fidelity and Surety; Property Insurance; Toxic Torts.
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Jeffrey H. Goldsmith (Associate) admitted to bar, 1994 New Jersey, Pennsylvania and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1997, U.S. District Court, Eastern and Southern Districts of New York; 2001, New York and U.S. Court of Appeals, Second and Third Circuits; 2002, U.S. District Court Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., Political Science, magna cum laude, 1991; J.D., cum laude, 1994). Since his admission to the New Jersey Bar in 1994, Mr. Goldsmith has focused on insurance coverage disputes, both litigated and in various forms of ADR. He has handled multi-party complex insurance matters arising from asbestos, hazardous waste and construction claims. He is also experienced in the defense of general liability bodily injury and property damage suits.
Mr. Goldsmith graduated magna cum laude from Seton Hall University in 1991 with a B.A. in Political Science and Minors in Business Administration and History. In 1994, he graduated cum laude from Seton Hall University School of Law, where he was an Articles Editor for the Seton Hall Legislative Journal and a member of the Inmate Advocacy Law Clinic. A former judicial clerk to the Hon. Martin L. Greenberg, Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County, Mr. Goldsmith was admitted to the Bars of the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, in 1994. He was admitted to the Bars of the United States District Court for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York in 1997, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in 2002, the Bar of the State of New York in 2001, and the Bars of United States Court of Appeals for the Second and Third Circuits in 2000 and 2001. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Insurance Coverage Disputes; Asbestos; Hazardous Waste; Construction Claims; General Liability Bodily Injury; Property Damage Suits.
Eileen Bass Rudd (Associate) admitted to bar, 1985, New Jersey. Education: Rutgers University (B.A., American Studies, 1979); Seton Hall University (J.D., 1984). Ms. Rudd is a graduate of Douglass College, Rutgers University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in American Studies and Urban Communication in 1979. Thereafter, Ms. Rudd was employed in a Wall Street law firm until returning to school to obtain her Juris Doctor degree from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1984. After gaining admission to the New Jersey State Bar and the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, she served as a judicial law clerk to both the Honorable Burton J. Ironson, J.S.C.-Law Division and the Honorable Miriam N. Span, J.S.C.-Chancery Division/Family Part in the Union Superior Court.
Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Rudd practiced in various areas of law, including numerous aspects of civil litigation and general practice. With past experience which includes general negligence and representation of parties involved in commercial and residential real estate transactions, she has most recently practiced as a trial attorney with specific emphasis in all aspects of the litigation and defense of medical malpractice matters. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; General Practice; General Negligence; Commercial; Residential Real Estate Transaction; Litigation; Medical Malpractice Matters.
Patrick J. McCormick (Associate) admitted to bar, 2000, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Montclair State University (B.A., Political Science, magna cum laude, 1994); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 2000). Mr. McCormick graduated from Montclair State University magna cum laude with a B.A. in political science in 1994. He attended Seton Hall University School of Law where he earned his J.D. in 2000. At Seton Hall, he was a member of the Seton Hall Law Review.
In 2000, Mr. McCormick was admitted to the Bar of the State of New Jersey and the Bar for the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. McCormick served as judicial law clerk to the Honorable F. Michael Caruso, J.S.C., Civil Division.
Chad B. Sponder (Associate) admitted to bar, 2000, New Jersey, New York and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: New York University (B.S., Speech and Professional Communication, 1996); Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law (J.D., 1999). Mr. Sponder graduated from New York University in 1996 with a B.S. in Speech and Professional Communication. In 1999, Mr. Sponder was awarded his J.D. degree from Yeshiva University's Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, where he was a member of the Trial Team, awarded First Place in a Client Counseling Competition and Editor in Chief of the Cardozo Law Forum. Prior to graduation, Mr. Sponder served as an intern to the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office and New York State Magistrate Judge Michael L. Orenstein.
Mr. Sponder was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar, New York State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey in 2000.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Sponder served as judicial law clerk to the Honorable Lorraine C. Parker, Superior Court of New Jersey, Sussex County, N.J., Criminal Division and Probate Part. Subsequent to his clerkship, Mr. Sponder practiced in various areas of civil and criminal litigation. Mr. Sponder's practice will focus on personal injury litigation with an emphasis on automobile related insurance defense. Practice Areas: Personal Injury Litigation.
Lilas Borsa (Associate) admitted to bar, 1997, New Jersey and New York. Education: Rutgers College (B.A., Economics and Political Science, 1991); Seton Hall University (J.D., 1991). Ms. Borsa graduated from Rutgers University in 1991, earning a B.A. in Economics and Political Science with a minor degree in Finance. In 1996, Ms. Borsa received her J.D. from Seton Hall University, School of Law and her MBA from Seton Hall University, Stillman School of Business.
Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Borsa was engaged as internal corporate counsel to several entities in the financial sector. She served as Assistant Vice President and Counsel to Credit Suisse First Boston, counsel for Bear, Stearns & Co., and Senior Marketing Review Principal for Prudential Insurance and Financial Services. Her experience and responsibilities included advising investment banking divisions on a variety of legal issues, oversight responsibilities for SEC and other regulatory compliance matters, review and monitoring of fixed income, high yield, equity, asset backed and convertible investment reports, developing pre-approve process for risk arbitrage desk trading, conducting audits of advertising activities and material, and involvement in numerous other aspects of the financial-trading practice. She held designations as Registered Representative (NASD Series 6) and Registered Principal (NASD Series 26).
Currently, Ms. Borsa is actively engaged in the firm's New York litigation practice in various aspects of contract and tort law. Member: New York State, New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Contract and Tort Law; Litigation.
Arthur A. Povelones, Jr. (Associate) admitted to bar, 1995, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Claremont Mckenna College (B.A., Government, magna cum laude, 1992); University of Notre Dame (J.D., cum laude, 1995). Mr. Povelones graduated from Claremont McKenna College in 1992, earning a B.A. magna cum laude in Government. In 1995, Mr. Poveloens was awarded a J.D. Cum Laude from the University of Notre Dame Law School.
Mr. Povelones was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, in 1995.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Povelones practiced in civil litigation with an emphasis on collection litigation. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Collection Litigation.
Nan Gallagher (Associate) admitted to bar, 2001, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Fordham University (B.A., magna cum laude, 1998); New York Law School (J.D., 2001). Ms. Gallagher graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude from Fordham University in 1998, earning a B.A. in English and a B.A. in Spanish Studies. She was the recipient of a United States Presidential Fellowship from the National Security Education Program to study abroad at the Catholic University of Valparaiso in Valparaiso, Chile. Ms. Gallagher was the President of Alpha Mu Gamma, the National Collegiate Modern Language Honor Society, from 1995 through 1997 and was also a member of Alpha Sigma Nu, the National Jesuit Honor Society. In June of 2001, she earned the degree from New York Law School, where she returns yearly to serve as a moot court judge. During all three years of law school, she served as a law clerk at a busy civil litigation firm specializing in legal malpractice, administrative law, and environmental law, and insurance coverage disputes. From 2001-2002, she served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Mahlon L. Fast, J.S.C., Civil Division, in Essex County.
Ms. Gallagher has been admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey, since 2001. She was admitted to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in 2008.
Ms. Gallagher specializes in various areas of civil litigation, with an emphasis on medical and hospital negligence, appellate practice, Title 59 actions, police negligence, complex premises and products liability actions, personal injury law and municipal matters. Member: Union County, New Jersey State and American Bar Associations; William J. Brennan, Jr. American Inn of Court. Languages: Spanish. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Complex Premises; Products Liability; Employment Law; Medical Negligence; Hospital Negligence; Personal Injury Law; Title 59 Actions.
Albert N. Montano (Associate) admitted to bar, 1996, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., Psychology, magna cum laude, 1993; J.D., 1996). Mr. Montano is a 1993 Magna Cum Laude graduate of Seton Hall University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. He received his law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1996. Mr. Montano was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court that same year.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Montano served as a law clerk in both the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County (1996-1997) and the United States District Court, Newark Vicinage (1997-1998) for the Honorable Katherine S. Hayden.
Mr. Montano's practice focuses mainly on personal injury defense, including automobile claims, premises and product liability, and civil rights defense. Mr. Montano also represents plaintiffs in a variety of personal injury actions. Member: New Jersey State Association; United States District Court Bar Association for the District of New Jersey. Practice Areas: Personal Injury; Automobile Claims; Premises Liability; Product Liability; Civil Rights Defense.
Rosa M. Marques (Associate) admitted to bar, 1995, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Rutgers University (B.A., English, with highest honors, 1992; J.D., 1995). Ms. Marques graduated with Highest Honors and College Honors from Rutgers University-Newark in 1992 with a B.A. in English. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the recipient of the Madison C. Bates Award, David Robert Friedlander Award, and Paul Mahlon Hamlin Award.
In 1995, Ms. Marques received her J.D. from Rutgers Law School-Newark. While in law school, she was an Articles Editor for the Rutgers Computer and Technology Law Journal. In addition, she served on the Moot Court Board. Ms. Marques finished in 1st place in the Nathan Baker Mock Trial Competition and was the recipient of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers Award.
Ms. Marques has been admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, since 1995. During the Spring Semester of 1994, while still in law school, she served as a law intern to the Honorable Dickinson R. Debevoise, United States District Court, District of New Jersey. Upon graduation from law school, she served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Theodore A. Winard, Superior Court of New Jersey, Criminal and Civil Divisions, Essex County.
Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Marques was associated with a firm specializing in medical malpractice defense. Practice Areas: Medical Malpractice Defense.
James P. McBarron (Associate) born Passaic, New Jersey, March 14, 1967; admitted to bar, 1992, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1993, New York. Education: University of Notre Dame (B.B.A., Finance, 1989); Rutgers University School of Law (J.D., 1992). Mr. McBarron graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1989 with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Finance. He received his J.D. from the Rutgers School of Law, Newark, in 1992 where he served as Senior Research Editor for the Rutgers Law Review.
Mr. McBarron was admitted to the Bar of the State of New Jersey and to the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey in 1992 and to the Bar of the State of New York in 1993. His practice is concentrated in the areas of real estate and construction litigation, employment law, products liability, and insurance coverage and defense. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations; Association of Trial Lawyers of America. Practice Areas: Real Estate; Construction Litigation; Employment Law; Products Liability; Insurance Coverage; Insurance Defense.
Brian J. Convery (Associate) admitted to bar, 1994, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Lafayette College (B.A., Government and Law, 1991); Vermont Law School (J.D., 1994). Mr. Convery received his B.A. from Lafayette College, Easton, PA, in 1991, where he majored in Government and Law, with a minor in English. In 1994, Mr. Convery received his J.D. from Vermont Law School, South Royalton, VT.
Mr. Convery was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar in 1994, and is also admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Convery practiced primarily in civil defense, with a broad emphasis on automobile and premises liability. Practice Areas: Civil Defense; Automobile; Premises Liability.
Cynthia Lee (Associate) admitted to bar, 2003, New Jersey; 2004, U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: State University of New York at Binghamton (B.A., Philosophy and Politics and Law, cum laude, 2000); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 2003). Ms. Lee graduated cum laude from the State University of New York at Binghamton in 2000, where she double majored in Philosophy and Philosophy Politics & Law (PPL), an interdisciplinary major emphasizing critical thinking and expository writing with core courses in philosophy with complementary courses in history, political science, economics, and other disciplines, leading to an interdisciplinary B.A. degree.
In June, 2003, Ms. Lee received her J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law.
Ms. Lee was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar in 2003, and the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey in 2004. Member: New Jersey State and American Bar Associations; Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey.
Adam G. Husik (Associate) admitted to bar, 2004, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Hampshire College (B.A., 2000); Rutgers University Law School (J.D., 2004). Mr. Husik graduated from Hampshire College in December 2000, earning a B.A. with an interdisciplinary degree encompassing course work in psychology, language and cultural studies.
In May, 2004, Mr. Husik received his J.D. from Rutgers University School of Law - Newark. While at Rutgers, he served as a supervising student attorney in the Community Law Clinic, where he trained students in transactional matters and performed corporate counsel functions for several nonprofit and corporate entities. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Husik served as judicial law clerk to the Honorable Ramona A. Santiago, J.S.C., Civil Division. In addition, Mr. Husik served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Mahlon L. Fast, J.S.C., Civil Division. Member: Essex and New Jersey State Bar Associations.
Kenneth Hayes (Associate) admitted to bar, 1997, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 2000, New York; U.S. District Court Eastern and Southern Districts of New York. Education: Rutgers University (B.S., Accounting and Spanish, 1990); Rutgers University Law School, Newark (J.D., 1997). Mr. Hayes graduated from Rutgers University in 1990 where he majored in Accounting and Spanish. In May 1997, Mr. Hayes received a J.D. from Rutgers School of Law Newark. While attending law school, Mr. Hayes was the Notes and Comments Editor of the Rutgers Law Review.
During the 1997-1998 judicial term, Mr. Hayes served as the law clerk to the Honorable Alan A. Rockoff, Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex Vicinage.
In 1997, Mr. Hayes was admitted to the New Jersey and Pennsylvania State Bars and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Thereafter, Mr. Hayes was admitted to the New York State Bar and the United States District Courts for Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Hayes practices in the areas of civil litigation with an emphasis on insurance defense and commercial litigation. Languages: Spanish. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Commercial Litigation; Insurance Defense.
Toni A. DeGennaro (Associate) admitted to bar, 2006, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Kean University (B.A., Political Science, magna cum laude, 1998); Rutgers School of Law (J.D., 2006). Ms. DeGennaro graduated Magna Cum Laude from Kean University in 1998 where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and was privileged to be the honorary recipient on behalf of her graduating class for achieving the highest grade point average. During her years at Kean, she became the founder and President of the Political Science Association for Part-Time Students.
Ms. DeGennaro then earned a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from Kean University in 2001, concentrating in American literature. She also served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Political Science Alumni Chapter Journal.
Ms. DeGennaro received a Juris Doctorate from Rutgers School of Law Newark in 2006. While in law school, Ms. DeGennaro served as the Articles Editor for the Rutgers Conflict Resolution Law Journal. In addition, she was elected as a first-year representative to the Student Bar Association and Vice-President to the Evening Student Association.
During the Spring 2006 semester, Ms. DeGennaro served as an intern for the Honorable Frances L. Antonin, Superior Court of New Jersey, Hudson Vicinage.
Ms. DeGennaro's practice focuses mainly on defense litigation, including personal injury, products and premises liability, fire and gas-related explosions, dental malpractice, and general negligence claims.
Ms. DeGennaro is admitted to practice law in the State of New Jersey and the United States District Court, District of New Jersey. Member: New Jersey State, American and National Italian American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Defense Litigation; Products Liability Litigation; Premises Liability Litigation; Fire and Gas Explosions; General Negligence Claims.
Matthew R. Panas (Associate) admitted to bar, 2005, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 2007, New York. Education: University of Delaware (B.A., Criminal Justice, 2000); Seton Hall Law School (J.D.). Mr. Panas graduated from the University of Delaware in 2000 with a B.A. in Criminal Justice. In 2005, Mr. Panas was awarded his J.D. degree from Seton Hall Law School, where he was a member of the Journal of Sports and Entertainment Law and was awarded the Best Brief Author and Best Oral Advocate in Appellate Advocacy. Prior to graduation, Mr. Panas worked as a Legal Intern at the United State's Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey and studied abroad in Italy.
Mr. Panas was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey in 2005. And the New York State Bar in 2007.
Prior to joining the Firm, Mr. Panas served as judicial clerk to the Honorable Douglas M. Fasciale, Superior Court, Union County, N.J., Law Division, Civil Part. Mr. Panas' practice will focus on personal injury litigation with an emphasis on automobile related insurance defense. Member: American Bar Association. Practice Areas: Personal Injury Litigation; Automobile; Insurance Defense.
Ann Mader-McKeon (Associate) admitted to bar, 1983, New Jersey. Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., Criminal Justice, magna cum laude); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D.). Ms. Mader-McKeon graduated Magna Cum Laude from Seton Hall University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.
Ms. Mader-McKeon graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law where she received a Juris Doctorate. During law school, Ms. Mader-McKeon was selected to be a member of the Seton Hall Legislative Bureau. In that capacity, she authored several case notes and articles published in the Seton Hall Legislative Journal.
Upon graduation from law school, Ms. Mader-McKeon served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Maurice Walsh, J.S.C. A former Deputy Attorney General specializing in appellate practice, Ms. Mader-McKeon thereafter worked with the firm as litigation associate before leaving to serve as in-house counsel to the Howard Savings Bank before joining Hardin Kundla McKeon & Poletto.
Ms. Mader-McKeon is admitted to practice law in New Jersey.
Joseph A. Gurski (Associate) admitted to bar, 2004, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: College of New Jersey (B.A., Political Science, 2001); Rutgers University Law School (J.D., 2004). Mr. Gurski graduated from The College of New Jersey in 2001 where he majored in Political Science, with a minor in History and a concentration in Russian Studies. He is also a graduate of the College Honors Program.
In May 2004, Mr. Gurski received his J.D. from Rutgers School of Law - Newark. During law school, he was a member of the Intellectual Property Society and the Sports and Entertainment Law Society. Mr. Gurski also served as a student attorney in the Urban Legal Clinic at Rutgers, where he provided counsel for individuals, and for small profit and not-for-profit businesses with limited financial resources in connection with the use, licensing, and transfers of their intellectual property rights.
Mr. Gurski was admitted to the New Jersey State and the Federal Court, District of New Jersey bars in 2004. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Gurski served as an Associate with a firm practicing civil plaintiff's litigation and foreclosure defense litigation. Member: New Jersey and American Bar Associations.
Michael D. Jardim (Associate) admitted to bar, 2006, New Jersey; 2007, New York and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Rutgers University (B.A., History and Political Science, 2002); Seton Hall University (M.B.A., Finance); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 2006). Mr. Jardim graduated from Rutgers University in 2002 where he earned a B.A. in History and Political Science and a minor in Economics. In 2006, Mr. Jardim graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law and was awarded a J.D. Also, in 2006 Mr. Jardim received his M.B.A. with a concentration in Finance from Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business. Mr. Jardim interned for the Newark Public Defender's office and served as the Secretary for the College Republicans at Seton Hall University School of Law in 2002-2003 academic year.
Mr. Jardim was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar in 2006 and the Bar of the United States for the District of New Jersey in 2007. Mr. Jardim also passed the bar in 2006 for the State of New York and his admission to the New York Bar and United States District Court for the Northern District of New York is currently pending.
Mr. Jardim practices in the areas of Civil Litigation with an emphasis on toxic Torts. Member: American Bar Association. Practice Areas: Civil Litigation; Toxic Torts.
Gary M. Sarno (Associate) admitted to bar, 1996, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Montclair State University (B.A., Political Science, cum laude, 1990); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 1995). In June 1990, Mr. Sarno graduated cum laude from Montclair State University where he majored in Political Science and minored in Pre-Law. During his undergraduate studies, he was a member, and eventual graduate, of the inaugural Montclair State Honors Program.
In June 1995, Mr. Sarno received his J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law. While in law school, Mr. Sarno was an active participant in the Pro Bono program of the Center for Social Justice and was both a participant and judge for the Moot Court Competition. During the years 1994 and 1995, he worked as a law clerk for a solo practitioner.
Mr. Sarno practices in the area of litigation, with an emphasis on insurance defense and employment law. Practice Areas: Insurance Coverage; Insurance Defense; Employment Law; Construction Law.
John M. Infosino (Associate) admitted to bar, 1991, Michigan; 1995, New Jersey. Education: The College of New Jersey (B.S., Industrial Arts Education, 1977); University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (J.D., 1991). Mr. Infosino received his B.S. from the College of New Jersey in 1977 where he majored in Industrial Arts Education. After graduation, he taught Auto Shop and Woodworking in Carteret NJ. He then joined Ford Motor Company as a Zone Manager in their Parts and Service Division. During his time at Ford, he earned a Master Degree in Business Administration from Rider University in 1984. He also earned his J.D. from the University if Detroit School of Law in 1991. He is admitted to practice in Michigan and New Jersey.
Mr. Infosino recently retied from Ford Motor Company after holding a variety of progressively responsible management positions in Marketing and Sales.
He is now an associate with the firm handling Lemon Law and breech of warranty litigation. Practice Areas: Lemon Law; Breech of Warranty Litigation.
Adam P. Birkhold (Associate) admitted to bar, 2006, New Jersey. Education: University of Minnesota (B.A., Advertising, 2003); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., 2006). Mr. Birkhold graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2003 with a B.A. in Advertising. In May, 2006, Mr. Birkhold received his J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law. During law school, Mr. Birkhold worked in the Civil Litigation Clinic and participated in various school associations.
Mr. Birkhold was admitted to the New Jersey State in 2006. Prior to joining the Firm, Mr. Birkhold served as judicial clerk to the Honorable Kathryn A. Brock, Superior Court of New Jersey Law Division, Civil Part, Union County.
Eileen T. Budd (Associate) admitted to bar, 1999, New York; 2001, U.S. District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. (Not admitted in New Jersey). Education: University of Southern California (B.A., Political Science, 1995); Tulane Law School (J.D., Environmental Law Certification, 1998). Ms. Budd graduated from the University of Southern California where she majored in Political Science with a minor in Environmental Social Sciences. Ms. Budd was a Dean's Scholar at the University of Southern California and a member of the Thematic Option Honor's Program. Ms. Budd participated in the Joint Education Project, a volunteer organization that worked with schools in South Central Los Angeles. In addition, Ms. Budd was a member of the women's lacrosse team.
In May 1998, Ms. Budd received her J.D. from Tulane University School of Law with an Environmental Law Certification. At Tulane University School of Law, Ms. Budd received a Tulane Law Scholarship. Ms. Budd was a student attorney with the Tulane Environmental Law Clinic, which was awarded Honorable Mention as Lawyer of the Year by the National Law Journal in 1998. During law school, Ms. Budd was a research assistant for Professor Oliver Houck, assisting in the preparation of a three-part article on the Clean Water Act. During law school, Ms. Budd was the legal intern for Operation Comeback, not-for-profit organization that assisted individuals in purchasing and expropriating abandoned and blighted housing in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ms. Budd also held a summer associate position with a litigation firm during the summer of 1996.
Ms. Budd is a project leader with New York Cares. In 2005, Ms. Budd helped create Coast-to-Coast to Cure Cancer ("C4"), a not-for-profit organization which raised funds for cancer research.
Ms. Budd is admitted to the New York State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Budd practiced in the areas of civil and commercial litigation including employment discrimination, environmental law, false advertisement, general negligence, insurance coverage, personal injury, product liability, and toxic torts. Practice Areas: Litigation(100%).
Megan C. Pear (Associate) admitted to bar, 2000, New Jersey; 2001, Pennsylvania; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Widener University (B.A., cum laude, 1998); Widener University School of Law (J.D., 2004). Ms. Pear graduated cum laude from Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania in 1998, where she majored in both sociology and criminal justice. Ms. Pear was president of the Criminal Justice Honor Society, as well as a member of the Honor Society for Liberal Arts and the Honor Society for Psychology. In her senior year, she was the recipient of the Patricia Blair Criminal Justice Prize, an honor bestowed upon the individual who has achieved the most in the area of criminal justice.
In 2001, Ms. Pear graduated from Widener University School of Law in Wilmington Delaware. As a student, Ms. Pear was an extern for the Delaware County District Attorney's Office, in Media, Pennsylvania. In this position, she handled preliminary hearings for three different townships, which involved prosecuting various crimes including robbery, rape, and murder.
Ms. Pear practices in the area of litigation, with an emphasis on toxic torts. She is a member of the New Jersey State Bar, the Pennsylvania State Bar and the bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey. Member: New Jersey State and Pennsylvania Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Litigation; Toxic Torts.
Leonard H. Zaslow (Associate) admitted to bar, 2003, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: County College of Morris (A.S., Criminal Justice/Forensic Science, 1993); Richard Stockton College (B.A., Criminal Law/Pre Law); Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center (J.D., 2001). In December, 2001, Mr. Zaslow received his J.D. from Touro School of Law - Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center. During law school, Mr. Zaslow was a member of the Touro School of Law Family Law Clinic and received a public service award from the Family Law Clinic Pro Bono Foundation.
Mr. Zaslow graduated from the County College of Morris with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and Forensic Science. Mr. Zaslow continued his undergraduate studies and graduated from the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey where he majored in Criminal Justice/Pre Law. He is a member of the New Jersey State Bar and the bar of the United States District Court, District Court of New Jersey.
Mr. Zaslow focuses his practice on defense litigation, with an emphasis on Personal Injury, Automobile Claims, Premises Liability, General Negligence Claims, Construction Law, Employment Law and Professional Liability, including attorney malpractice and broker errors and omissions. Member: Middlesex County, New Jersey State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Defense Litigation; Personal Injury; Automobile Claims; Premises Liability; General Negligence Claims; Construction Law; Employment Law; Professional Liability; Attorney Malpractice; Broker Errors and Omissions.
David Lafarga (Associate) admitted to bar, 1997, Michigan and U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan; 1998, U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit; 2007, New York. (Not admitted in New Jersey). Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., Political Science, 1991); Michigan State University College of Law (J.D., 1996). Mr. Lafarga graduated from Seton Hall University where he majored in Political Science, and was inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society.
Mr. Lafarga attended Michigan State University College of Law and received his J.D. in January 1996. During law school, Mr. Lafarga served various internships in the Detroit, Michigan and Madrid, Spain.
Upon graduating from law school, Mr. Lafarga entered the practice of law in Detroit, Michigan. He maintained a national defense practice, specializing in complex litigation, medical malpractice and products liability. He also provided pro bono legal services through the Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit. In addition to his legal work, Mr. Lafarga was also active in the Michigan State Bar ultimately becoming a Representative in the Michigan State Bar Assembly. In 2008, Mr. Lafarga joined the New York office of Hardin, Kundla, McKeon & Poletto, P.A. where he continues to represent clients in the defense of complex litigation matters and products liability claims.
He is a member of the New York State bar, the Michigan State bar, the bar of the United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Court. Member: New York State Bar Association; State Bar of Michigan; Hispanic National Bar Association. Languages: Spanish and Portuguese. Practice Areas: Complex Litigation; Products Liability Claims.Email: David Lafarga
Stephen P. Murray (Associate) admitted to bar, 2004, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 2005, New York. Education: State University of New York at Albany (B.A., American History, cum laude, 1990); Yeshiva University Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law (J.D., 2004). Mr. Murray graduated cum laude from the University at Albany where he majored in American History. During his undergraduate studies, he served as an intern with the New York State legislature and graduated in three years while working part-time.
Upon graduation, Mr. Murray worked over ten years in the banking industry in trading and operations roles and was employed by Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan, Banca Commerciale Italiana and Credit Suisse First Boston among others. In June, 2004, Mr. Murray received his J.D. from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. During law school, Mr. Murray was a legal intern for the Union County Prosecutor's office in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Mr. Murray also worked as an intern for the Enforcement Division of the New York Stock Exchange during the spring semester of 2002.
Upon admittance to the New Jersey State Bar, Mr. Murray was employed by the Environmental Claims Department of AIG Domestic Claims, Inc. Mr. Murray was as an adjuster in the declaratory judgment unit. He is a member of the New York State bar, the New Jersey bar, and the bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey.
Mr. Murray practices in the area of litigation, with an emphasis on insurance coverage, mass torts and product liability. Member: New York State and American Bar Associations. Practice Areas: Litigation; Insurance Coverage; Mass Torts; Product Liability.
Nghia H. Nguyen (Associate) admitted to bar, 2004, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Villanova University (B.S., Chemistry); Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania State University (J.D.). Mr. Nguyen earned his law degree from Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania State University. During law school, Mr. Nguyen was a law clerk for a personal injury law firm. Mr. Nguyen earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Villanova University. During his undergraduate studies, Mr. Nguyen was awarded a fellowship grant to conduct research experiments in Physical Chemistry.
Mr. Nguyen was admitted to the New Jersey State bar, the bar of the United State District Court, District Court of New Jersey, and the Pennsylvania State bar in 2004.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Nguyen was an associate with a law firm practicing civil litigation with an emphasis on retail and commercial collection. Mr. Nguyen's practice focuses primarily on insurance coverage, construction and general liability litigation. Member: New Jersey State Bar Association. Practice Areas: Insurance Coverage; Construction; General Liability Litigation.
Philip Y. Ing (Associate) admitted to bar, 2003, New Jersey; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Boston College (B.A., English, magna cum laude, 1993); Hofstra University School of Law (J.D., 2002). Philip Y. Ing graduated magna cum laude from Boston College in 1993, where he was enrolled in the School of Arts & Sciences Honors Program, and received his Bachelor of Arts degree in English. During his undergraduate studies, he completed his thesis in the Honors Program, was a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, and on the Dean's List.
In May 2002, Mr. Ing received his Juris Doctorate from Hofstra University School of Law. From 2002-2003, Mr. Ing was the law clerk to The Honorable Bruce A. Gaeta, former judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey. He is admitted to the New Jersey State Bar and the bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Ing practiced in general civil litigation, criminal defense, and administrative law. Mr. Ing practices in the areas of complex liability, insurance coverage and employment litigation. Member: New Jersey State Bar Association. Practice Areas: Complex Liability; Insurance Coverage; Employment Litigation; General Civil Litigation; Criminal Defense; Administrative Law.
Michael S. Horn (Associate) admitted to bar, 2006, New York, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Tulane University (B.A., Political Science, cum laude); Syracuse College of Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 2004). Mr. Horn graduated cum laude from Tulane University where he majored in Political Science and minored in Business. In December, 2004, Mr. Horn graduated magna cum laude from Syracuse College of Law. During law school, Mr. Horn was in the Order of the Coif, and a member of the Justinian Honorary Society. During law school, Mr. Horn was in the Order of the Coif, and a member of the Justinian Honorary Society. He also received many awards and distinctions such as the CALI Award. He was also named in Who's Who among Students in American Universities & Colleges. During the summer of 2004, Mr. Horn served as a law clerk for the Onondaga County Department of Law.
Mr. Horn is a member of the New York State Bar, the New Jersey State Bar, and the Bar of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. In April 2005, Mr. Horn was sworn in as an Assistant District Attorney in Queens County. During his tenure, Mr. Horn prosecuted a variety of cases from their inception of trial. Mr. Horn specialized in prosecuting defendants who committed fraud against insurance companies and large businesses. Mr. Horn also conducted long-term investigations of criminal enterprises. In addition, he successfully argued cases before the New York State Appellant Division and the New York Sate Appellant Term.
In April 2008, Mr. Horn associated with a law firm where he litigated civil matters from their inception to trial. During his tenure, he represented clients in state and federal court.
Mr. Horn practices in the area of litigation, with emphasis on insurance related cases. Member: Queens Bar Association. Practice Areas: Litigation; Insurance Related Cases.
Lennny Fuchs (Associate) admitted to bar, 2009, New York. (Not admitted in New Jersey). Education: New York University (B.A., Politics); Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law (J.D.). Mr. Fuchs is a graduate of New York University where he majored in Politics and minored in Philosophy. In June, 2008, Mr. Fuchs graduated from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. While there, he received a certificate in Disputes Resolution. He also completed requirements for a concentration in Real Estate and Property Law. During law school, Mr. Fuchs worked in The Hartford's Legal Professional Liability Department where he received significant experience in claims handling. Mr. Fuchs is a member of the Bar of the State of New York and is a litigation associate in the New York Office. Member: New York State Bar Association. Practice Areas: Litigation.
Lisa A. Breen (Associate) admitted to bar, 1993, New Jersey; U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey. Education: Rutgers University (B.S., Psychology); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1993). Ms. Breen graduated from Rutgers University, Rutgers College where she majored in Psychology with a minor in French. In June 1993, Ms. Breen received her J.D., cum laude from Seton Hall University School of Law. During law school, Ms. Breen worked as a summer associate at a large Newark firm. Upon graduation from law school, Ms. Breen was offered a position at that firm where she concentrated in environmental and commercial litigation. Ms. Breen continued her practice at a large Morristown firm and concentrated in corporate commercial litigation. After five years as a solo practitioner, Ms. Breen joined in 2008 and now focuses on defense litigation, commercial litigation and real-estate transitional work.
Ms. Breen is a member of the New Jersey State Bar and the Bar of the United States District Court, District of New Jersey. Member: New Jersey State Bar Association; Worrall Mountain, Inn of Court. Practice Areas: Defense Litigation; Commercial Litigation; Real Estate Transitional.
John J. Grillos (Associate) admitted to bar, 1973, New Jersey and U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey; 1981, New York. Education: Seton Hall University (B.A., History, 1969); Seton Hall University School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1973). Mr. Grillos received his J.D. cum laude from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1973 and earned B.A. in history from Seton Hall University in 1969. He served as Deputy Attorney General for the State of New Jersey from 1973 through 1976. He is admitted to practice in the State of New Jersey and New York.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Grillos served as General Counsel to the A.M. Best Company from 1985 to 1997. He also was engaged as Corporate Counsel and Senior Vice President at Oxford University Press through 2006, where he managed Human Resources and focused on employment law issues. Mr. Grillos is designated as a Senior Professional in Human Resources by the Society for Human Resources Management ("SHRM"). He currently practices in various areas of civil litigation for the firm.