In The News

May 22, 2012
'Prosecutors, Innocence Project clash over Bennie Starks case'
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
Ronald S. Safer
This article describes the exoneration of Bennie Starks, a man wrongfully convicted of rape and assault in 1986, who spent 20 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Ronald Safer, Schiff Hardin's managing partner, participated in Mr. Starks' pro bono defense and is quoted regarding the state's attorney's continued pursuit of assault charges despite a lack of clear evidence.
February 21, 2012
"Photographer's Access to Wild Horses Requires First Amendment Balancing Test"
United States Law Week
Bruce A. Wagman
Schiff Hardin partner Bruce Wagman was part of the legal team that succeeded in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, establishing that certain standards needed to be set regarding the access of photographers and reporters wanting to observe wild horse roundups undertaken by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Mr. Wagman comments on the case's expansion of wild horse law and the application of First Amendment precedent to the case at hand, in which a photographer was denied access to a government horse round up.
February 9, 2012
"Workplace policies on tweeting"
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Eric L. Barnum
Schiff Hardin partner Eric Barnum is quoted in this article about CNN analyst Roland Martin's suspension from the network after Martin posted a Twitter update that was perceived as homophobic. Mr. Barnum, who focuses on employment litigation, points out that laws governing employment relationships in social media differ from state to state, but that in no case does the First Amendment bar an employer from terminating an employee.
January 18, 2012
"Big Asbestos Trial Under Way in San Francisco"
The Recorder
Eliot S. Jubelirer
This article about the start of a multi-defendant asbestos trial quotes Schiff Hardin partner Eliot Jubelirer. Mr. Jubelirer, who has defended companies in asbestos litigation for over 30 years, comments on the nature of asbestos cases involving plaintiffs in the construction industry.
December 8, 2011
"Lengthy Blagojevich Sentence Meant to Send Others a Message"
USA Today
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner and former assistant U.S. Attorney Ron Safer was quoted in this article reacting to the 14-year prison sentence handed down to former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Mr. Safer has been widely consulted and quoted in local and national media throughout the former governor's two trials and their aftermath.
November 24, 2011
"New team aims for rebirth of defiled cemetery"
Chicago Tribune
Patricia Brown Holmes
This article profiles the efforts of a team led by Patricia Brown Holmes, trustee of Burr Oak Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois, to restore the tarnished image of the cemetery in the wake of a grave-reselling scandal in 2009. Ms. Holmes leads Schiff Hardin's White Collar Crime and Corporate Compliance Group.
November 23, 2011
“Defense Verdict in High-Stakes Trial Over Child's Injury in Dorel Booster Seat”
Product Safety and Liability Reporter
Walter C. Greenough
This item recounts a recent victory by Schiff Hardin attorney Walter Greenough on behalf of Dorel Juvenile Group Inc. in a product liability case involving a child's car seat. Mr. Greenough focuses his practice on product liability defense and civil litigation.
November 9, 2011
"Chief judge from Brunswick accused of misconduct"
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Leah Ward Sears
This item takes note of former Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears' appointment by Georgia's Judicial Qualification Commission to prosecute a drug court judge accused of misconduct. Justice Sears is a Schiff Hardin partner and leader of its Appellate Team.
November 1, 2011
"Asbestos Lawyers Balking at Court's Plan to Erase General Orders"
The Recorder
Eliot S. Jubelirer
This article relates the San Francisco Superior Court's plans to do away with general orders, procedural rules for asbestos-related cases that have stood for decades. Schiff Hardin partner Eliot Jubelirer, who has more than 30 years' experience representing defendants in asbestos litigation, suggests that the rules be updated and modified rather than done away with.
October 7, 2011
"S.F. Tames Asbestos Docket"
The Recorder
Eliot S. Jubelirer
Schiff Hardin partner Eliot Jubelirer is quoted in this article about a transition of judges in San Francisco Superior Court's "asbestos department." Mr. Jubelirer, who focuses his practice on toxic tort and product liability litigation, praises the outgoing judge, Harold Kahn, and notes that the new judge, Teri Jackson, is entering a department with much established history.
August 2, 2011
'Q&A With Schiff Hardin's Eliot Jubelirer'
Law360
Eliot S. Jubelirer
The Law360 newswire published a Q&A with Schiff Hardin partner Eliot Jubelirer, a partner in the firm’s San Francisco office who focuses on product liability and toxic tort matters. The piece covers career-related topics including challenging cases and opposing counsel, and trial preparation routines.
July 22, 2011
'Q&A With Schiff Hardin?s Thomas Battistoni'
Law360
Thomas P. Battistoni
The Law360 newswire conducted a detailed interview with Schiff Hardin partner Tom Battistoni, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and now partner in the firm's New York office. The piece covers his dedication to serving client needs by getting to the heart of the matter efficiently. The article also covers career-related topics including challenging cases and opposing counsel, and trial preparation routines.
July 6, 2011
'Q&A With Schiff Hardin’s Eric Barnum'
Law360
Eric L. Barnum
The Law360 newswire conducted a detailed interview with Schiff Hardin partner Eric Barnum, a trial lawyer in the firm’s Atlanta office. The piece covers career-related topics including challenging cases and opposing counsel, and trial preparation routines.
July 1, 2011
'New trustee has personal stake in restoring Burr Oak cemetery'
Southtown Star
Patricia Brown Holmes
This item highlights the appointment of Schiff Hardin partner Patricia Brown Holmes as trustee of the Burr Oak Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois. The cemetery is emerging from bankruptcy and a scandal involving the resale of burial plots by the former operators. Ms. Holmes, who focuses her practice on white collar criminal matters and internal investigations, also headed a task force in the immediate aftermath of the Burr Oak scandal aimed at amending cemetery law.
June 28, 2011
'Blagojevich found guilty of corruption'
USA Today
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer is quoted in this article about the conviction of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich on 17 felony counts in his retrial on corruption charges.
June 25, 2011
'Black's 'final chapter' closes'
National Post (Canada)
Ronald S. Safer
This article about convicted newspaper baron Conrad Black's latest appeal quotes Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer. Mr. Safer, who defended Black's co-defendant Mark Kipnis (ultimately exonerated) comments on the slim chances of any successful appeals in the case before Black completes his sentence.
June 19, 2011
'On The Case With Paula Zahn'
Investigation Discovery Channel
Ronald S. Safer
This television interview program spotlighted Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer's successful defense in the second trial of Julie Rae (f/k/a Julie Rae Harper). Ms. Rae earlier had been wrongfully convicted of murdering her son and had spent nearly three years in jail. That conviction was overturned on appeal, albeit on a rather technical issue and a special prosecutor re-filed charges against her. Schiff Hardin's team persuaded a jury of what the forensic evidence made clear: Ms. Rae was innocent. The case attracted national and international attention.
June 1, 2011
'CEO Failed to Prove Attorney-Client Privilege, Court Finds'
Inside Counsel
Patricia A. Pileggi
This article describes the potential for confusion over attorney-client privilege when, during an internal investigation, a lawyer representing the company interviews that company's employees or officers. Schiff Hardin partner Pat Pileggi comments upon the need for clarity, as to the nature of the representation, when interviewing employees. Ms. Pileggi, who focuses her practice in white collar criminal defense, is also a columnist for Insidecounsel.com.
March 31, 2011
'Rajaratnam's Defense Has a Tough Job Ahead'
Bloomberg Businessweek
Patricia A. Pileggi
This article about the insider-trading trial of the former leader of the Galleon Group hedge fund quotes Schiff Hardin partner Pat Pileggi. Ms. Pileggi focuses her practice in white collar criminal matters.
March 24, 2011
'To End Inquiry, Suffolk Leader Exits Race'
The New York Times
Patricia A. Pileggi
Schiff Hardin partner Pat Pileggi is quoted in this Times article about a county executive under investigation for corruption. Ms. Pileggi, a former chief of the public integrity section at the Brooklyn U.S. attorney's office, comments that the executive's acceptance of responsibility for wrongdoing might have prompted the district attorney to close the investigation.
March 11, 2011
'New Government Product Safety Database Sparks Controversy'
San Francisco Daily Journal
Jeffrey R. Williams
This article about a new public database of consumer product safety complaints quotes Schiff Hardin partner Jeff Williams, co-leader of the firm's Product Liability group. Jeff comments on the potential for information from the database to be misused in litigation against product manufacturers.
March 9, 2011
Coverage related to former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich
Chicago NBC and ABC affiliates
Ronald S. Safer
Following Rod Blagojevich's motion to be sentenced on his sole corruption conviction and forego a new trial on remaining counts, Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer gave comments to local television network affiliates. Mr. Safer, a former federal prosecutor, describes the motion as more a publicity stunt than a serious legal maneuver.
March 2, 2011
'Q and A With Schiff Hardin's Jeff Williams'
Law360
Jeffrey R. Williams
The Law360 newswire conducted a detailed interview with Schiff Hardin partner Jeff Williams, co-leader of the firm's Product Liability group. The piece covers topics including where Jeff finds challenge and reward in the legal profession, reforms needed in expert witness testimony, and advice to new lawyers starting their careers.
October 15, 2010
'Port Authority Settles With 9/11 Plaintiffs'
New York Law Journal
Paul A. Scrudato
This item notes the representation by Schiff Hardin partner Paul Scrudato of a defendant in litigation involving claims by more than 10,000 plaintiffs who are seeking damages for claims arising from their work at Ground Zero.
August 18, 2010
In the Trenches
Fulton County Daily Report
Kimberly R. Bourroughs
This article takes note of the recent addition of associate Kimberly Bourroughs to Schiff Hardin's Litigation Group and Appellate Team. Ms. Bourroughs is the former chief of staff to retired Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears, who joined the firm last year, and she continues to work alongside Justice Sears at Schiff Hardin.
July 27, 2010
'Schiff Hardin win solidifies CBOE as the leading options exchange'
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
Paul E. Dengel, Stacie R. Hartman, Robert H. Riley
This article details a recent successful representation of the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE), a longtime Schiff Hardin client. The firm recently prevailed for the CBOE in litigation regarding whether the tort of misappropriation prevents exchanges from offering a market in index options without a license from the index owner. Partners Paul Dengel and Stacie Hartman, and firm Chairman Robert Riley, all comment on the significance of the case.
July 26, 2010
'It Ain't Tainted'
New Jersey Law Journal
Walter C. Greenough, Brian J. Neff
This item relates to an incident in which potential jury members made anti-plaintiff statements during voir dire in a personal injury trial, Eleanor Madden and Jerome Madden v. Cosco, a Dorel Company et al. (N.J. Super. Ct. Law Div.). Schiff Hardin attorney Walter Greenough, a partner in the firm's Chicago office, along with Brian Neff, counsel in the firm's New York office, were successful in obtaining a jury verdict in favor of defendant Dorel Juvenile Group, Inc., and an affirmance of that verdict on appeal. Mr. Neff is quoted regarding the appellate court's ruling rejecting the argument that the jury had been tainted by the negative remarks.
July 14, 2010
'Outside Court, a Divide Over Blagojevich Case'
The Wall Street Journal
Ronald S. Safer
This Wall Street Journal article quotes Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer regarding the challenges faced by the prosecution in securing a conviction of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich in his corruption trial. The prosecution recently rested its case in the trial.
June 24, 2010
'Supreme Court Ruling Won't Affect Blago Case'
ABC 7 News (WLS-TV Channel 7)
Ronald S. Safer
In another of a series of local television news appearances, Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer discusses recent developments in the corruption trial of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Here, Mr. Safer discusses the impact (or lack thereof) on the trial of a recent Supreme Court decision narrowing the scope of 'honest services' fraud. Mr. Safer also discussed this issue recently on Chicago's WMAQ-TV and WGN-TV, as well as a the ABA Journal Podcast.
June 21, 2010
'Plaintiffs Lawyers Size Up Obstacle Course for Toyota Class Action'
National Law Journal
Joseph J. Krasovec III
This article about the upcoming multidistrict class action litigation against Toyota Motor Corp. regarding recalled vehicles quotes Schiff Hardin partner Joe Krasovec. Mr. Krasovec, who focuses on product liability matters, points out the difficulty of proving a claim in so-called 'no injury' cases, where the plaintiffs in the class have not personally experienced the defect that led to the recall, yet allege 'economic-loss' injuries instead.
June 16, 2010
'Conference to discuss asbestos bankruptcy filings'
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
Robert H. Riley
This item in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin spotlights the upcoming Asbestos Bankruptcy Conference, featuring discussions about bankruptcy filings by asbestos manufacturing companies. Robert Riley, chairman of Schiff Hardin and leader of the firm's Product Liability Group, will be a panelist.
June 7, 2010
'Judge throws out injured man's claims against ladder maker'
Texas Lawyer
Walter C. Greenough
This item spotlights a defense verdict in a product liability suit in Texas, obtained by Schiff Hardin Product Liability Group partner Walter Greenough.
June 3, 2010
'Passion and Success in U.S. Attorney's Office'
The New York Times
Ronald S. Safer
This article in The New York Times offers a look inside the federal prosecutor's office in the Northern District of Illinois, which is currently trying a corruption case against former governor Rod Blagojevich. Ron Safer, managing partner at Schiff Hardin and a former Assistant U.S. Attorney in Chicago (where he headed the Criminal Division), offers his insights on the operation of the office. Mr. Safer was also quoted in the Times in a separate article on June 4 ('Defendants Face a Treacherous Walk at Dirksen') about defendants' interactions with the press outside the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago, where Mr. Blagojevich is being tried.
June 3, 2010
'Will Rod Blagojevich trial be a circus? The ex-governor hopes so'
The Christian Science Monitor
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer is quoted in this item on the corruption trial of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Mr. Safer, himself a former federal prosecutor, discusses trial strategy and notes the potential for the jury to become swamped with evidentiary details if the big picture is not emphasized.
June 2, 2010
'Corruption Trial To Start For Ex-Illinois Governor Blagojevich'
NPR Morning Edition
Ronald S. Safer
National Public Radio produced a story concerning the start of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich's corruption trial, featuring comments by Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer. A frequent media commentator on important issues involving white collar criminal matters, Mr. Safer also appeared on local Chicago newscasts on WMAQ-TV and WGN-TV to discuss the case.
June 1, 2010
'It's showtime for U.S. vs. Blagojevich'
Chicago Tribune
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer is quoted in this lengthy review of the government's corruption case against former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Mr. Safer, himself a former federal prosecutor, notes that the governor's tone in secretly recorded conversations to be replayed at trial may make his defense team's job more difficult.
May 28, 2010
'Taking the stage on the stand'
USA Today
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer is quoted in this USA Today article on the corruption trial of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich, which is due to start next week. Mr. Safer is a former assistant United States attorney.
April 28, 2010
'Corporate compliance efforts are critical in stepped-up enforcement environment'
Insight
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer is interviewed for this extensive article about the government's increased use of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Mr. Safer, former Chief of the Criminal Division in the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois, points out the various facets of the FCPA, how companies can avoid running afoul of them, and the consequences of violations.
April 27, 2010
'Lawyer Named for Woman Who Says She was Fired Because of Jury Duty'
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
Matthew C. Crowl
This article takes note of the appointment by U.S. District Judge Amy St. Eve of Schiff Hardin partner Matt Crowl to represent a woman who alleges she was fired in retaliation for reporting for jury duty. Mr. Crowl is a trial attorney whose focus includes complex civil litigation, white collar crime and corporate compliance matters.
April 25, 2010
'Fox Chicago Sunday'
Fox Chicago News (WFLD-TV Channel 32)
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer was a guest on Chicago Fox affiliate WFLD-TV's 'Fox Chicago Sunday' news program, which centered on comments made by ousted Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich in advance of his trial on corruption charges. Mr. Safer is a former Assistant United States Attorney, and was Chief of the Criminal Division in the Northern District of Illinois.
April 22, 2010
'Rod, Take Your Trash Talkin' and Walk'
Chicago Tribune
Ronald S. Safer
This op-ed piece, contributed by Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer, imagines potential responses of U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald to challenges to his manhood leveled recently by former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Mr. Safer, himself a former federal prosecutor, points out the sometimes personal risks inherent in a prosecutor's work.
April 14, 2010
'News Analysis: The Blagojevich Case'
Chicago Tonight (WTTW Channel 11) and other local news programs
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer participated in a panel discussion on Chicago Tonight, a news and public affairs program airing on WTTW Channel 11, a Chicago public television station. The discussion centered on the recently released proffer outlining the government's case against former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich, who is due to stand trial for corruption this summer. Mr. Safer also appeared on two other local television stations — NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV Channel 5 and WGN-TV Channel 9 — to discuss recent developments in the case.
April 5, 2010
'Taxpayers likely to help fund ex-gov's defense'
Chicago Sun-Times
Ronald S. Safer
This article in the Chicago Sun-Times quotes Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer on the likelihood of public funds being used in the defense of Rod Blagojevich, the former Illinois governor due to stand trial this summer for corruption. Mr. Safer is a former federal prosecutor and former chief of the Chicago U.S. Attorney's Criminal Division.
April 1, 2010
'Listening In'
Inside Counsel
Patricia A. Pileggi
Schiff Hardin partner Patricia Pileggi, who practices in the firm's White Collar Crime and Corporate Compliance group, comments in this article about the potential advantages of wiretaps — and the legal obstacles to their use — in white collar criminal investigations.
March 1, 2010
'Schiff Hardin's Safer Leads His Midsize Firm by Example, Compassion, Modesty and Grit'
Of Counsel
Ronald S. Safer
In its March issue, Of Counsel magazine features an interview with Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer. Mr. Safer discusses his early years as a lawyer, two of his most significant engagements (defending Julie Rea Harper and Mark Kipnis), and the challenges of navigating a midsize law firm through the economic turmoil of recent years.
February 4, 2010
'Taking Time to Represent the Little Guy'
Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
Ronald S. Safer
This feature story focuses on Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer. It traces his legal career from a clerkship for a federal judge in Washington, D.C., through a ten-year stint at the U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago — where he ultimately led the Criminal Division — to his current position. The story notes Mr. Safer's continuing commitment to pro bono work, particularly his efforts to exonerate Julie Rea Harper, a woman wrongfully convicted of murdering her son, in 2006.
November 25, 2009
'Trio of defendants win asbestos trial'
The Recorder
Eliot S. Jubelirer
Schiff Hardin partner and commercial litigator Eliot Jubelirer is quoted in this article about an asbestos trial. Mr. Jubelirer comments on the possible negative impact of the large awards sought by the plaintiffs in the case.
November 23, 2009
'Dahlonega rolls out red carpet for high court'
Fulton County Daily Report
Paul E. Greenwalt III
This article describes the argument made by Schiff Hardin partner Paul Greenwalt during special oral argument session conducted by the Supreme Court of Georgia in Dahlonega, Georgia. Mr. Greenwalt, who represents a death row inmate on a pro bono basis, obtained a complete victory before the habeas court when that court ordered a new trial after finding that the client's trial lawyers were ineffective and that the client is mentally retarded and therefore cannot be executed. The State did not appeal the finding of mental retardation and the only issue before the Supreme Court is whether the client is entitled to a new trial as a result of his counsel's ineffectiveness.
October 23, 2009
'Skilling's Enron Appeal: Is 'Honest Services Fraud' a Bogus Charge?'
TIME Magazine
Patricia A. Pileggi
Patricia Pileggi, a partner in Schiff Hardin's New York office who concentrates on white collar criminal defense, is quoted in this article from TIME Magazine discussing the broad application of the controversial 'honest services fraud' charge, which has been used to convict several high-profile defendants in recent years.
September 29, 2009
'New tenet in law of supply and demand; Federal judge tosses price-fixing charges after finding no evidence of lies, misrepresentation or other fraud'
Chicago Tribune
Ronald S. Safer
This article about a case of alleged commodities price-fixing quotes Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer. Schiff Hardin was co-counsel for one of the defendants in the case, in which four former BP America Inc. employees were accused of market manipulation and conspiring to corner the market in over-the-counter propane. Though BP paid hundreds of millions of dollars in fines, a federal judge in Houston recently threw out the indictments. This is an important development for the trading and related industries.
September 29, 2009
'Add Knockoff Bags to Web Hosts' Woes'
National Law Journal
David Jacoby
This article about a $32 million judgment against two Web hosting firms for contributory trademark infringement, in the form of counterfeit handbag sales, quotes Schiff Hardin partner David Jacoby. Mr. Jacoby comments on the responsibility of Web site hosting companies when fake brand-name goods are being sold online using their services.
September 15, 2009
'Twitter Sued Over User Posing As Energy Co. Oneok'
Law360
David Jacoby, Judith S. Roth
This article, on a trademark infringement claim against the social networking site Twitter by an Oklahoma energy company, quotes Schiff Hardin attorneys Judith Roth and David Jacoby. Ms. Roth and Mr. Jacoby comment on the significance of the case, in which a Twitter user adopted the company's name, in the evolving 'Wild, Wild West' world of IP in the online realm.
September 8, 2009
'The Little Indian Restaurant That Could'
The AmLaw Daily
David Jacoby, Judith S. Roth
Malaysian courts turned down McDonald's bid in a trademark infringement suit to stop a competing restaurant from calling itself McCurry. The AmLaw Daily reached out to Schiff Hardin IP attorneys David Jacoby and Judith Roth for a quick Q&A on the significance of the ruling. The published interview draws on their experience protecting the rights of varied trademark holders, and discusses why major brand owners need to be proactive in protecting their rights and some of the practical aspects of doing so.
June 1, 2009
'Special Report: Operation Rescue'
O, The Oprah Magazine
Bruce A. Wagman
The June issue of O, The Oprah Magazine features an extensive account of an animal cruelty case recently concluded in North Carolina. Bruce Wagman, Schiff Hardin partner and chief outside litigation counsel for the Animal Legal Defense Fund, designed and oversaw the lawsuit from start to finish, and is quoted in the article.
May 19, 2009
'In rare ruling, court agrees to hear Black's appeal' and 'Were Black's Services Honest?'
Toronto Daily Globe and Mail
Ronald S. Safer
Two stories in Toronto's Globe and Mail address the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to review the convictions of Conrad Black and Hollinger General Counsel Mark Kipnis last year on fraud charges. Ron Safer, managing partner at Schiff Hardin and lead attorney for Mark Kipnis, is quoted on the application of the 'honest services' theory used to convict Black and now under review by the Court.
May 8, 2009
'Beefing up investigative tools: State panel's proposals include expanded use of wiretaps, but some see flaws'
Chicago Tribune
Ronald S. Safer
This story on the role of state and local law enforcement in public corruption investigations quotes Schiff Hardin Managing Partner Ron Safer, a former federal prosecutor. Mr. Safer questions the need for expanded state powers when federal authorities already have the tools and track record to successfully fight corruption.
April 22, 2009
'Australia Behind on Animal Law'
Lawyers Weekly
Bruce A. Wagman
The Australian legal news publication Lawyers Weekly spoke with Schiff Hardin partner Bruce Wagman about the state of animal protection and welfare in that country. In May, Mr. Wagman will embark on a 10-day speaking tour throughout Australia on the subject of animal law, speaking to law societies, judges and lawmakers, and the public sector.
April 15, 2009
'Schiff Hardin Signs on Cerussi Mass Tort Partner'
Law360
Thomas M. Crispi
This item from the Law360 news service takes note of the recent move to Schiff Hardin of Thomas Crispi, now a partner in the firm’s Product Liability group. It specifically points out Schiff Hardin's steady growth even during the current economic downturn.
April 7, 2009
'With Stevens order, judge declares war on withheld evidence'
McClatchy newspapers
Ronald S. Safer
Schiff Hardin Managing Partner Ron Safer is quoted in this story regarding the dismissal of former U.S. Senator Ted Stevens' conviction on corruption charges. Mr. Safer noted that the dismissal was a tremendously powerful statement directed at federal prosecutors. The story originated from McClatchy Newspapers' Washington bureau; the McClatchy organization owns dozens of papers nationwide.
March 19, 2009
Elliott Spitzer discussion
The Brian Lehrer Show
Patricia A. Pileggi
Patricia Pileggi, a partner in our New York office who concentrates in white collar crime matters, was interviewed on WNYC radio. On the first anniversary of the resignation from office of Governor Elliott Spitzer, Ms. Pileggi discussed issues related to the decision not to prosecute former Governor Spitzer, his potential criminal liability, and the prosecution of the clients of prostitutes.
March 10, 2009
'Madoff to Cop to Charges Without Plea Deal'
Law360
Allan Horwich
Schiff Hardin partner Allan Horwich is quoted extensively in this assessment of the government’s case against disgraced financier Bernard Madoff. Mr. Horwich comments on the lack of a plea bargain in the case.
March 3, 2009
'Students craft real-world strategies for lawyers in DePaul's Litigation Lab'
DePaul Distinctions
James A. Clark
This feature in a newsletter published by DePaul University spotlights a unique new class at the university’s law school. Students in the class serve as consultants to lawyers litigating active cases. The class is led by Schiff Hardin attorney James Clark.
February 19, 2009
'Petland Discounts: Pro Bono Work for Animal Rights Skyrockets'
The AmLaw Daily
Bruce A. Wagman
This article highlights Schiff Hardin partner Bruce Wagman’s efforts as outside litigation counsel of the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF). Mr. Wagman discusses the growing opportunities for work in the area of animal law.
January 12, 2009
“Blagojevich Trial to Hold Drama: Observers See ‘Dragnet’ Meeting ‘Columbo’”
USA Today
Ronald S. Safer
This story in USA Today profiles two attorneys on opposing sides of the corruption case involving Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich: defense attorney Ed Genson and U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald. Schiff Hardin Managing Partner Ron Safer, who knows both lawyers, offers his assessments of their legal styles and abilities.
January 11, 2009
'Can the Senate Nix Burris?'
Chicago Tribune
Ronald S. Safer
An editorial about the recent appointment by Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich of Roland Burris to the U.S. Senate draws on the knowledge and experience of Schiff Hardin Managing Partner Ron Safer. Mr. Safer offers three possible arguments that the Senate could make in a decision not to seat Mr. Burris.
December 23, 2008
'Madoff Case Raises Compliance Questions'
The Wall Street Journal
Michael K. Wolensky
Schiff Hardin partner Mike Wolensky, who focuses on financial industry issues in the firm’s Atlanta office, is quoted in this article about compliance procedures in the alleged $50 billion Ponzi scheme connected to Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC.
December 1, 2008
'The Wag-Man'
California Lawyer
Bruce A. Wagman
A column in this issue of California Lawyer focuses on Schiff Hardin partner Bruce Wagman’s highly-regarded work in animal law. It highlights his relationships with major animal protection organizations, as well as the challenges of working in an often uncharted area of law.
September 15, 2008
'The NLJ Client List: Who Represents Corporate America'
National Law Journal
Schiff Hardin’s name appears several times in this 21st annual survey of go-to law firms for the nation’s largest companies. These Fortune 100 companies rely on Schiff Hardin’s representation in matters ranging from intellectual property work to torts and negligence to commercial law and contracts litigation.
March 5, 2008
'Hollinger Trial Shows Even Least Culpable GC at Risk'
Daily Report
Patricia Brown Holmes, David H. Williams
This article reflects on the recently increasing exposure of corporate general counsel to risks of criminal prosecution for ethical infractions. Schiff Hardin partners Patricia Brown Holmes and David H. Williams comment on the ethical pitfalls that can complicate the work of a GC. Ms. Holmes, along with managing partner Ron Safer, represented Mark Kipnis, the former GC of Hollinger International, Inc., in the fraud trial of Conrad Black and his associates.
December 12, 2007
'It’s A Wonderful Verdict: Mark Kipnis, the George Bailey of the Black Trial, Didn’t Deserve Jail'
Toronto Sun
Ronald S. Safer
This column in the Toronto Sun reviews the sentencing of Mark Kipnis, former in-house counsel of Hollinger International, Inc., who was a defendant in the recently concluded Conrad Black trial. Mr. Kipnis received the lightest sentence of all the defendants — probation — due in part, the column suggests, to a deft characterization of him before the judge by his attorney, Schiff Hardin Managing Partner Ron Safer. Similar pieces noting the favorable sentence have appeared in the Chicago Tribune and numerous other publications across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.
November 1, 2007
“Beast Practices: High Profile Cases Are Putting Plenty of Bite Into the Lively Field of Animal Law”
ABA Journal
Bruce A. Wagman
Schiff Hardin has established a national practice in animal law and is a leading firm in protecting and defending the rights of animals. This feature in the November 2007 ABA Journal explores the swiftly expanding field of animal law. Two Schiff Hardin partners are highlighted: Walter Bush, in our Atlanta office, and Bruce Wagman in San Francisco. Both lawyers relate some of their experiences in a practice that has become personally meaningful to them.
September 17, 2007
'CFTC, FERC Reportedly at Odds Over Amaranth Jurisdiction, Enforcement Roles'
Inside FERC
Allan Horwich
This article examines the roles of two regulatory agencies as they attempt to enforce penalties against a hedge fund accused of manipulating natural gas markets. Allan Horwich, a partner working in Schiff Hardin’s Energy, Securities and Futures Market Regulation, and Litigation groups, explains the jurisdictional conflicts that make this case particularly significant.
August 13, 2007
'Monkey See, Monkey Sue (for Legal Custody)'
Newsweek
Bruce A. Wagman
This item from Newsweek spotlights an animal protection case involving two chimpanzees, twelve gibbons and a steer who were rescued from a situation of severe neglect. Schiff Hardin partner Bruce Wagman, who represents the plaintiffs in the case, is quoted.
August 6, 2007
'In-House Attorneys, Watch Your Step'
BusinessWeek
Ronald S. Safer
This article focuses on the status of Conrad Black co-defendant and former Hollinger International Inc. in-house counsel Mark Kipnis. Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer, who represents Mr. Kipnis, comments on the significance of the jury’s decision in the case.
June 7, 2007
'Kipnis' Case May Have Improved' and 'Largely Forgotten Figure Now Looms Large'
Chicago Tribune and Toronto Daily Globe and Mail
Ronald S. Safer
These articles, part of continuing coverage of the Conrad Black fraud trial, take special note of U.S. District Court Judge Amy St. Eve's praise for the efforts of Schiff Hardin managing partner Ron Safer on behalf of his client, Mark Kipnis. Specifically, Mr. Safer's cross-examination of a government witness showed that Mr. Kipnis received no improper reward for his in-house counsel work at Hollinger International Inc. Judge St. Eve was quoted as telling Mr. Safer that this testimony 'gives you a very powerful argument in your closing arguments.'
June 4, 2007
'Law Schools Increase Animal Law Studies'
National Law Journal
Bruce A. Wagman
This survey story featured Bruce Wagman’s comments about law students’ growing interest in animal law and the expansion of his own animal law practice nationwide. He pointed out that owners setting up trusts for their pets to be taken care of after their owners die is an example of the kind of legal work that is increasing.
May 21, 2007
'Law Suits By Pet Owners Skyrocket'
East Bay Business Times (California)
Bruce A. Wagman
This article featured comments by Bruce Wagman, whose national animal law practice continues to attract significant media coverage, on rapid expansion of this legal area.
May 3, 2007
'Director Says He Skimmed Reports - Former Chair Of Hollinger Audit Committee Concedes He Should Have Read Papers Carefully'
Globe and Mail (Toronto)
Ronald S. Safer
Ron Safer’s cross-examination of former Illinois Governor and former Chair of the Hollinger International Inc. Audit Committee, James R. Thompson, in the Conrad Black trial, attracted worldwide media attention in articles such as this story.
April 4, 2007
'Lawyer Tries To Show Hollinger Board OKd Payments'
Crain’s Chicago Business Online and Reuters
Patricia Brown Holmes
Patricia Brown Holmes’ examination of a witness in the Conrad Black et al. trial, including Schiff Hardin client, co-defendant Mark Kipnis, was featured.
April 2, 2007
'Pet Poisoning Suits Looking To Up The Ante'
National Law Journal
Bruce A. Wagman
Bruce A. Wagman was quoted an authority on animal law regarding the spate of law suits resulting from poisoned pet foods.
April 1, 2007
'Defending His Lordship'
American Lawyer
Ronald S. Safer
Ronald S. Safer was featured regarding his representation of Mark Kipnis, a co-defendant of Conrad Black in a white collar crime prosecution that is one of the most covered cases in recent Chicago history. This is just one of dozens of articles mentioning Mr. Safer in regard to this case that have appeared in news media across the United States and around the world.
March 5, 2007
'Jordan Wins First Round In WorldCom Suit'
Washington Post
Frederick J. Sperling
Frederick J. Sperling was interviewed regarding yet another litigation victory for Michael Jordan.
February 1, 2007
'Air Sperling'
Chicago Magazine/Super Lawyers Edition
Frederick J. Sperling
Frederick J. Sperling’s stellar litigation career, including a spotlight on his representation of basketball superstar Michael Jordan, was featured in a cover story, &'Air Sperling.”
February 1, 2007
'Consultants, Experts Help Law Firms Develop Their Cases'
Chicago Lawyer
William E. Meyer Jr.
William E. Meyer was quoted in a survey story on the effective use of experts in litigation.
December 11, 2006
'Corruption Boom — Front Page — In Chicago, There Is Steady Work Defending Public Officials Gone Awry'
National Law Journal
Ronald S. Safer
Ronald S. Safer was featured in this survey story focusing on the significant increase in defense work for Chicago and Illinois governmental officials charged with criminal wrongdoing.