Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC and its partners have been awarded prestigious and highly sought-after recognition by The Legal 500 United States 2023. Morvillo Abramowitz is one of five elite firms in the country to be selected as a Top Tier law firm in the categories of Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense. The firm also received top honors in the categories of Leading Trial Lawyers and Securities Litigation.

More than half of the firm’s partners have been recognized for their exceptional expertise and dedication in the category of Corporate Investigations & White Collar Criminal Defense including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Kathleen E. Cassidy, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Christopher B. Harwood, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Karen R. King, Lawrence Iason, and Jeremy H. Temkin. Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Christopher B. Harwood, and Edward M. Spiro have been acknowledged for their outstanding contributions in the category of Securities Litigation.

Additionally, Elkan Abramowitz has earned a place in the Hall of Fame category for both the Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense and Leading Trial Lawyers. Attorneys selected to Hall of Fame "must be widely regarded as being at the very top of the profession" and "have been consistently ranked as leading individuals by The Legal 500 for a number of years."

Our clients praise the firm and note:

"Morvillo Abramowitz stands out in a crowded field by having true excellence in every level of their team."

"Morvillo Abramowitz has a tremendous and long-standing reputation in white collar criminal defense."

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring U.S. firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

Click here to read more.

For 19 consecutive years, Chambers USA Guide to America's leading lawyers and law firms has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in the category of Litigation: Specialist Firms in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations and has, once again, awarded the coveted top-tier ranking of Band 1 to the firm. We continue to receive Chambers Nationwide recognition in the category of Securities: Regulation: Enforcement and in Chambers Global 2023 Guide for FCPA practice.

Chambers USA writes,"They have an incredibly deep bench and are very adept at dealing with any situation."

Chambers USA highlights our firm as "widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice" and emphasizes our “impressive breadth of expertise in regulatory investigations and enforcement proceedings.” Notably, our firm "fields a deep bench of formidable litigators with experience with acting on some of the most high-profile criminal trials of recent times…"

Twelve of our seventeen partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA and Chambers Global across three separate categories.

In the category of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations, Elkan Abramowitz (Senior Statesman), Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Brian A. Jacobs, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Robert R. Radick, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, Richard D. Weinberg and Kate Cassidy were all recognized. In the category of Securities: Regulation: Enforcement, Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg were recognized. Robert J. Anello was recognized in Chambers Global in the category of FCPA.

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the United States and worldwide.

Morvillo Abramowitz and Morvillo Abramowitz attorneys are ranked in Chambers USA Guide 2023 and Chambers Global Guide 2023. This award is conferred by Chambers and Partners. A description of the selection methodology can be found here. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New York.

The Legal 500 United States 2022 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC and its partners in the categories of Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense, Leading Trial Lawyers, and Securities Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recognized, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Kate Cassidy, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Christopher B. Harwood, Lawrence Iason, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Karen R. King and Jonathan S. Sack, within Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, and Edward M. Spiro within Securities Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been included in the Hall of Fame for both the Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense and Leading Trial Lawyers categories. The Hall of Fame “highlights individuals who have received constant praise by their clients for continued excellence."

Clients praise the firm and note, “Morvillo Abramowitz has continued to stand out as one of the top litigation boutiques in the country.”

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring U.S. firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity. Click here to read more.

Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: Specialist Firms in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking of Band 1. The firm is also recognized in Securities: Regulation: Enforcement. The publication noted that our firm is “widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice” and “offers an impressive breadth of expertise in regulatory investigations and enforcement proceedings." Further, we are characterized as “a top-flight white-collar boutique” that is “among the elite.” Clients commented that we are “prestigious, classy, and have a very strong reputation in the business crime sector in New York” and that the firm’s “work ethic and teamwork is exceptional.” Eleven of our sixteen partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in three separate categories. In the category of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations, Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Brian A. Jacobs, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Robert R. Radick, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg were all recognized. In the category of Securities: Regulation: Enforcement, Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg were recognized. In the category of FCPA, Robert J. Anello was recognized.

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the United States with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the United States and worldwide.

To learn more, please click here.

NEW YORK, October 7, 2021 - Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello in Tier 1 in the White-Collar Crime category, Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York. Acknowledged as “Litigation Stars” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime are Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine Foti, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partner Edward M. Spiro was named “Litigation Star” in the area of General Commercial Litigation. Partners Christopher B. Harwood, Brian A. Jacobs, Telemachus P. Kasulis, and Robert M. Radick have been selected as “Future Stars.”

The publication noted that the firm “has a dominating reputation as being a white-collar and investigations powerhouse.”  As noted by a peer, “they don’t do everything, but they are the best at what they do … and that word has gotten around well beyond New York."  Clients stand in agreement offering their support and praise. One client applauds Morvillo Abramowitz and states that “it is hard to imagine they could deliver more focused and effective client service.”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello, Catherine M. Foti and Christopher B. Harwood were named as Benchmark Litigation "Labor and Employment Stars." As noted by Benchmark Litigation, “the firm has [] established itself in the labor and employment realm with its expertise in handling some of the most sensitive and complex disputes and investigations. The firm’s employment practice is often called upon by high-profile individuals seeking formidable lawyers in disputes that are bound to gain public attention.”

To view the full editorial, please click here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

On September 13^th, Robert Anello appeared on the Korean news channel Airing News Center as a legal analyst discussing the Elizabeth Holmes trial. In the interview, Bob discussed the extraordinary amount of attention this case has garnered, and how the public’s attention has been even more rapt as a result of the ongoing global pandemic. He also discussed that while only time will tell whether the government will determine that the company’s claims were lies or simply failures, it is clear that the government is taking the types of allegations made against Ms. Holmes very seriously.

Watch Here

NEW YORK, August 19, 2021 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized in the 2022 Edition of Best Lawyers, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Catherine M. Foti, Paul R. Grand, Lawrence Iason, Brian A. Jacobs, Robert M. Radick, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg, and are featured in the following categories: Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Corporate Compliance Law, Corporate Governance Law, and Criminal Defense: White-Collar.

Published in almost 70 countries around the world, the Best Lawyers publication is the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. The selection process for Best Lawyers is designed to fully “capture, as accurately as possible, the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues within the same geographical area and legal practice area.”

Please click here to read more.

NEW YORK, May 20, 2021 – Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: Specialist Firms in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking of Band 1. The firm is also recognized in Securities: Regulation: Enforcement. The firm is “widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice” and “offers an impressive breadth of expertise in regulatory investigations and enforcement proceedings.” The publication also noted that the firm “fields a deep bench of formidable litigators with experience with acting on some of the most high-profile criminal trials of recent times, as well as advising on internal investigations.” Clients commented that “[t]he firm is at the very top and shows true excellence in all the work it performs” and that the attorneys’ “knowledge and expertise in white-collar matters are unparalled.” More than half of the firm’s partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg; FCPA: Robert J. Anello.

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the United States with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the United States and worldwide.
To learn more, please click here.

NEW YORK, May 14, 2021 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Brian A. Jacobs collaborated to update Chapter 12, Securities Fraud, and Chapter 12A, Insider Trading, in Law Journal Press’ treatise entitled, White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses. The update to Chapter 12 addresses SEC enforcement actions arising from spoofing-­related activity and SEC guidance on the factors that determine whether cryptocurrency and digital assets are securities under the federal securities laws. The chapter also discusses Liu v. SEC, in which the Supreme Court upheld disgorgement of illicit gains as an equitable remedy in SEC enforcement actions, but considered whether such a disgorgement award may exceed a wrongdoer’s net profits. The update to Chapter 12A addresses the latest developments in the case of United States v. Blaszczak, in which the Second Circuit in late 2019 considered whether 18 U.S.C. § 1348 requires the government to prove the breach of a duty of confidence in exchange for a personal benefit. In January 2021, the Supreme Court vacated the Second Circuit’s opinion and remanded for further consideration in light of Kelly v. United States, the “Bridgegate” case relating to what qualifies as “property.” Although the Supreme Court’s vacatur in Blaszczak did not relate to the Second Circuit’s personal­ benefit holding, the Supreme Court’s actions created uncertainty as to the degree to which Blaszczak’s personal­ benefit holding remains good law.

To order a copy of White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses, please click here. 

NEW YORK, March 19, 2021 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been shortlisted by Benchmark Litigation as a White Collar Crime/Investigations Firm of the Year. Firms who are recognized for this honor have been chosen based on extensive research conducted throughout 2020.

To view the nominees, please click here.

On October 11, 2020, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in Bloomberg in an article entitled, “White-collar crime probes likely to intensify under Biden’s DOJ.” The article discusses the decline in white-collar prosecutions under Trump’s DOJ and restoration of morale in the Justice Department.

To read more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, October 28, 2020 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been named 2020 New York Super Lawyers as well as several counsel and associates, who have been distinguished as New York Rising Stars.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations.

NEW YORK, October 28, 2020 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been selected for The Global Investigations Review 100 2020 guide. Based on extensive research, the annual edition of GIR 100 will highlight leading cross-border investigations practices from around the world, and will be distributed at several premier international conferences.

To view the full list, please click here.

NEW YORK, October 1, 2020 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC Tier 1 nationally in the White-Collar Crime category, Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York, and recognized the firm’s partners. Acknowledged as “Litigation Stars” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime are Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine Foti, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partner Edward M. Spiro was named “Litigation Star” in the area of General Commercial Litigation. Partners Catherine M. Foti, Christopher B. Harwood, Brian A. Jacobs, Telemachus P. Kasulis, and Robert M. Radick have been selected as “Future Stars.”

As noted by a peer, “many other firms are trying to ramp up their white-collar practices right now, hiring aggressively out of the government and so forth, but Morvillo Abramowitz still has an edge on most of them. Not only have their lawyers been at this game longer than most who are still practicing, but they are seasoned with years of wisdom and trial experience. They know what works and what doesn’t, what arguments will hold up and when to employ them. And for a relatively small firm, their bench is surprisingly deep.” Clients have expressed their appreciation as well. One client applauds Morvillo Abramowitz and states that the firm is “simply the best at what they do.” Another confirms, “if you’re in need of counsel regarding really serious concerns, you don’t mess around and 'window shop.' You just go straight to the experts – you go to Morvillo.”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Catherine M. Foti were named as Benchmark Litigation Labor and Employment Stars. As noted by Benchmark Litigation, “the demand for this independent study was not just driven simply by the attorneys attending to this specialty in private practice... but rather employment litigation has become a top five issue keeping in-house counsel up at night."

To view the full list, please click here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, June 10, 2020 – The Legal 500 United States 2020 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC and its partners in the categories of Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense, Leading Trial Lawyers, and Securities Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recommended, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Christopher B. Harwood, Lawrence Iason, Telemachus P. Kasulis, and Jodi Misher Peikin, within Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, and Edward M. Spiro within Securities Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been recognized as a “Leading Trial Lawyer” in this year’s edition for his outstanding skills in the courtroom and included in the Hall of Fame for both the Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense and Leading Trial Lawyers categories. The Hall of Fame “highlights individuals who have received constant praise by their clients for continued excellence."

Clients praise the firm and note, “they are the go-to firm in New York in white-collar cases and SEC enforcement actions and the team comprises smart, dedicated, hard-working lawyers.”

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring U.S. firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

NEW YORK, May 20, 2020 - Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Brian A. Jacobs collaborated to update Chapter 12A, Insider Trading, in Law Journal Press' treatise entitled, White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses. The updates address the Second Circuit’s decision in United States v. Blaszczak considering whether to impose the “personal benefit” standard established by the Supreme Court in Dirks v. SEC on insider trading cases brought under 18 U.S.C. Sections 1343 and 1348, pending insider trading legislation, and insider trading “reforms” proposed by the Bharara Task Force on Insider Trading

To order a copy of White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses, please click here.

NEW YORK, April 23, 2020 – Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking, Band 1. Indeed, it has more partners who are ranked in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations than any other firm. The firm also is recognized in Securities: Regulation: Enforcement. The firm is “widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice and offers an impressive breadth of expertise in regulatory investigations and enforcement proceedings, and fields a deep bench of formidable litigators with experience with acting on some of the most high-profile criminal trials of recent times, as well as advising on internal investigations.” Clients praise the firm and note, “If you're looking for a firm to represent an individual in a trial or investigation, they're at the very top - they're one of the best, if not the best in New York.” More than half of the firm's partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Jodi Misher Peikin, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg.

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the U.S. with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the U.S. and worldwide.

To learn more, please click here.

NEW YORK, January 24, 2020 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been shortlisted by Benchmark Litigation as a White Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations Firm of the Year. Firms who are recognized for this honor have been chosen based on extensive research conducted throughout 2019.

To view the nominees, please click here.

NEW YORK, January 7, 2020 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized as experts in Who’s Who Legal: Investigations 2020, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Richard D. Weinberg. The practitioners have been selected for their exceptional work assisting companies and individuals in a wide range of issues in white-collar crime, corporate compliance and regulatory enforcement.

Who's Who Legal along with its sister publication, Global Investigations Review, has created a comprehensive guide focusing on the foremost lawyers working in the field of investigations.

NEW YORK, November 1, 2019 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been recognized in the 2020 Edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers’ “Best Law Firms.” The firm was ranked nationally in Tier 1 in the practice area of Criminal Defense: White-Collar and Tier 3 in the practice area of Commercial Litigation. The firm also was ranked in Metropolitan Tier 1 in the practice areas of Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Corporate Compliance Law, and Criminal Defense: White Collar, and in Tier 2 in the practice area of Corporate Governance Law.

Published in almost 70 countries around the world, the Best Lawyers publication is the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. For more than three decades, Best Lawyers lists have earned the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals anywhere.

For more information, please click here.

NEW YORK, October 31, 2019 - Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Brian A. Jacobs collaborated to update Chapter 12A, Insider Trading, in Law Journal Press' treatise entitled, White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses. The chapter addresses the current state of insider trading law following the Second Circuit’s decisions in United States v. Martoma.

To order a copy of White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses, please click here.

NEW YORK, Monday, October 7, 2019 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Catherine M. Foti were named as Benchmark Litigation Labor and Employment Stars. As noted by Benchmark Litigation, “the demand for this independent study was not just driven simply by the attorneys attending to this specialty in private practice... but rather employment litigation has become a top five issue keeping in-house counsel up at night."

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

To view the full list, please click here.

NEW YORK, October 1, 2019 – Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello has been appointed by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, First Judicial Department as the new Chairperson of the Attorney Grievance Committees, effective October 1, 2019. The Attorney Grievance Committees, formerly known as the Departmental Disciplinary Committee, were established by the Joint Rules of the Departments of the Appellate Division (22 NYCRR Part 1240) and the First Department’s local rules to investigate complaints of professional misconduct by attorneys. Along with Abigail Reardon, Bob will serve a three-year term.

Upon announcing the appointments, Presiding Justice Rolando T. Acosta said, “The Court is grateful that Ms. Reardon and Mr. Anello have agreed to serve as chairs of the Attorney Grievance Committees and has every confidence that they will continue to serve the public and the bar honorably.”

To view Supreme Court of the State of New York Appellate Division, First Judicial Department’s press release, please click here.

NEW YORK, September 27, 2019 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC Tier 1 nationally in the White-Collar Crime category, Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York, and recognized the firm’s partners. Acknowledged as “Litigation Stars” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime are Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence S. Bader, Benjamin S. Fischer, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partners Judith L. Mogul, and Edward M. Spiro are named “Litigation Stars” in the area of General Commercial Litigation. Partners Catherine M. Foti, Christopher B. Harwood, Brian A. Jacobs, Telemachus P. Kasulis, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Robert M. Radick have been selected as “Future Stars.”

As noted by a peer, “many other firms are trying to ramp up their white-collar practices right now, hiring aggressively out of the government and so forth, but Morvillo Abramowitz still has an edge on most of them. Not only have their lawyers been at this game longer than most who are still practicing, but they are seasoned with years of wisdom and trial experience. They know what works and what doesn’t, what arguments will hold up and when to employ them. And for a relatively small firm, their bench is surprisingly deep.” Clients have expressed their appreciation as well. One client applauds Morvillo Abramowitz and states that the firm is “simply the best at what they do.” Another confirms, “if you’re in need of counsel regarding really serious concerns, you don’t mess around and 'window shop.' You just go straight to the experts – you go to Morvillo.”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Catherine M. Foti were named as Benchmark Litigation Labor and Employment Stars. As noted by Benchmark Litigation, “the demand for this independent study was not just driven simply by the attorneys attending to this specialty in private practice... but rather employment litigation has become a top five issue keeping in-house counsel up at night."

To view the full list, please click here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, September 12, 2019 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been named 2019 New York Super Lawyers as well as several counsel and associates, who have been distinguished as New York Rising Stars.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations.

NEW YORK, August 16, 2019 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been selected for The Global Investigations Review 100 2019 guide. Based on extensive research, the 5th edition of GIR 100 will highlight leading cross-border investigations practices from around the world, and will be distributed at several premier international conferences.

NEW YORK, August 15, 2019 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized in the 2020 edition of Best Lawyers, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Catherine M. Foti, Paul R. Grand, Lawrence Iason, and Richard D. Weinberg, and featured in the following categories: Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Corporate Compliance Law, Corporate Governance Law, and Criminal Defense: White-Collar.

Published in almost 70 countries around the world, the Best Lawyers publication is the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. The selection process for Best Lawyers is designed to fully “capture, as accurately as possible, the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues within the same geographical area and legal practice area.”

Please click here to read more.

On August 9, 2019, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a Law360 article entitled, “UN Bribery Ruling Further Defines The Limits Of McDonnell.” 

To read this article and review Bob's comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, May 30, 2019 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized as experts in Who’s Who Legal: Business Crime Defence 2019, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Jonathan S. Sack. The practitioners were selected for "their exceptional work handling a range of matters, including regulatory and internal investigations, fraud, corruption, bribery and mutual legal assistance."

Since 1996, Who's Who Legal has identified the foremost legal practitioners in business law based upon comprehensive, independent research.

NEW YORK, May 29, 2019 – The Legal 500 United States 2019 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC and its partners in the categories of Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense, Leading Trial Lawyers, and Securities Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recommended, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Jonathan S. Sack within Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence S. Bader, and Edward M. Spiro within Securities Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been recognized as a “Leading Trial Lawyer” in this year’s edition for his outstanding skills in the courtroom and included in the Hall of Fame, which “highlights individuals who have received constant praise by their clients for continued excellence."

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring U.S. firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

NEW YORK, April 25, 2019 – Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking, Band 1. Indeed, the firm has more partners who are ranked in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations than any other firm. The firm also is recognized in Securities: Regulation: Enforcement. The firm is “widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice” and “fields a deep bench of formidable litigators with experience with acting on some of the most high-profile criminal trials of recent times, as well as advising on internal investigations.” Clients praise the firm and note, “They're excellent. They're top-notch criminal defense lawyers and the gold standard of white-collar criminal boutiques.” More than half of the firm's partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Judith L. Mogul, Jodi Misher Peikin, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg; FCPA: Robert J. Anello; and Litigation: General Commercial: Judith L. Mogul.

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the U.S. with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the U.S. and worldwide.

To learn more, please click here.

NEW YORK, January 23, 2019 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been shortlisted by Benchmark Litigation as a White Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations Firm of the Year. Firms who were recognized for this honor have been chosen based on extensive research conducted throughout 2018. All selected firms will be announced at a formal ceremony on Thursday, February 28, 2019 at the Essex House in New York.

To view the nominees, please click here.

On January 11, 2019, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in The American Lawyer in an article entitled, “Law Firms Face 'Uncharted Waters' as Shutdown Grinds Some Practices to a Halt.” The article discusses the legal industry's first quarter financial results, which may see a dent as court appearances and deals fall prey to political gridlock. To read more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, September 28, 2018 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC Tier 1 nationally in the White-Collar Crime category, Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York, and recognized all of the firm’s partners. Acknowledged as “Litigation Stars” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime are Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence S. Bader, Benjamin S. Fischer, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partners Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro are named “Litigation Stars” in the area of General Commercial Litigation. Partners Catherine M. Foti, Brian A. Jacobs, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Robert M. Radick have been selected as “Future Stars.”

As noted by a peer, “many other firms are trying to ramp up their white-collar practices right now, hiring aggressively out of the government and so forth, but Morvillo Abramowitz still has an edge on most of them. Not only have their lawyers been at this game longer than most who are still practicing, but they are seasoned with years of wisdom and trial experience. They know what works and what doesn’t, what arguments will hold up and when to employ them. And for a relatively small firm, their bench is surprisingly deep.” Clients have expressed their appreciation as well. One client applauds Morvillo Abramowitz and states that the firm is “simply the best at what they do.” Another confirms, “if you’re in need of counsel regarding really serious concerns, you don’t mess around and 'window shop.' You just go straight to the experts – you go to Morvillo.”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, September 26, 2018 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized as experts in Who’s Who Legal: Business Crime Defence 2018, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Jonathan S. Sack. The practitioners were selected for "their exceptional work handling a range of matters, including regulatory and internal investigations, fraud, corruption, bribery and mutual legal assistance."

Earlier this year, Morvillo Abramowitz partners Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Richard D. Weinberg were recognized as experts in Who’s Who Legal: Investigations 2018 for "their exceptional work assisting companies and individuals in internal investigations and enforcement proceedings." In addition, both Elkan Abramowitz and Lawrence Iason were identified as Thought Leaders.

Since 1996, Who's Who Legal has identified the foremost legal practitioners in business law based upon comprehensive, independent research.

NEW YORK, September 13, 2018 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been named 2018 New York Super Lawyers as well as several counsel and associates, who have been distinguished as New York Rising Stars.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations.

NEW YORK, June 13, 2018 – The Legal 500 United States 2018 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in both Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense and Securities Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recommended, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Bader, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Jonathan S. Sack within Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Bader, Lawrence Iason, and Edward M. Spiro within Securities Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been recognized as a “Leading Trial Lawyer” in this year’s edition for his outstanding skills in the courtroom.

Praising the firm’s capabilities, sources note that “it is fantastic, a very fine firm with significant trial experience … and commands industry-wide respect for its investigations and trial work for individuals, particularly senior executives across a range of fields.” Other clients rave that “the firm has a very strong securities litigation defense team and is at the top of the list of boutique firms.”

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring U.S. firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

On May 24, 2018, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a Los Angeles Times article entitled, “The Bumble Bee tuna price-fixing case could point to the future of white-collar prosecutions.” The article highlights a shift in emphasis away from corporate prosecutions and toward immigration cases, crimes of violence, and drug crimes. To view more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, May 3, 2018 – Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking, Band 1. Indeed, the firm has more partners who are ranked in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations than any other firm. The firm also is recognized in Securities: Regulation: Enforcement and Litigation: General Commercial: Highly Regarded. The firm is known for its “impressive breadth of expertise” and “fields a deep bench of formidable litigators with experience with acting on some of the most high-profile criminal trials of recent times as well as advising on internal investigations, and enjoys a burgeoning profile for its work in the civil litigation market.” Clients praise the firm and note, “they are extremely well respected and their credibility in court is exceptional, and all the members of the team are superb.”

More than half of the firm's partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, Robert M. Radick, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg; FCPA: Robert J. Anello; and Litigation: General Commercial: Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro.

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the U.S. with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the U.S. and worldwide.

To learn more, please click here.

NEW YORK, March 1, 2018 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized as experts in Who’s Who Legal: Investigations 2018, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Richard D. Weinberg. The practitioners have been selected for their exceptional work assisting companies and individuals in internal investigations and enforcement proceedings.

Since 1996, Who's Who Legal has identified the foremost legal practitioners in business law based upon comprehensive, independent research.

NEW YORK, February 26, 2018 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners Robert J. Anello and Richard F. Albert have been selected as winners of the Burton Award for Distinguished Legal Writing. Only 30 elite articles were chosen from over 1,000 submissions from the nation’s most prestigious law firms. The winners will be celebrated at a ceremony held on May 21, 2018, at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The Academic Board, which reviewed articles published within the past year, was led by Virginia Wise, Chair, formerly of Harvard Law School; Jeanne Merino, Stanford Law School; Lindsay Saffouri, UC Berkeley School of Law, William C. Burton, author and founder of the event; Judge Edward Forstenzer, Superior Court of California (retired); and William Ryan, member of the Department of Homeland Security and former Chair of the White House Plain Language Committee.

The Burton Awards, established in 1999, is funded by the Burton Foundation, a non-profit, academic effort devoted to recognizing and rewarding excellence in the legal profession. The Burton Awards honors the finest accomplishments in law, including writing, reform, public service and interest, regulatory innovation, and lifetime achievements in the profession.

NEW YORK, December 20, 2017 – Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC was featured in a Bloomberg Big Law Business article entitled, “Morvillo Abramowitz Wants You to Know it Wasn’t Recently Acquired by Orrick.” The article discusses Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP’s acquisition of white collar litigation boutique Morvillo LLP. Morvillo Abramowitz, which is not merging with Orrick shared this message, “Congratulations to Morvillo LLP from your friends and former colleagues at Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC. We wish you well on your merger with Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP and have no doubt that the combination will be a success. Your beloved father, our friend and co-founder, Robert G. Morvillo, would be proud.”

To read this article, please click here.

NEW YORK, December 18, 2017 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been shortlisted by Benchmark Litigation as a White Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations Firm of the Year. Firms who were recognized for this honor have been chosen based on extensive research conducted throughout 2017. All selected firms will be announced at a formal ceremony on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at The Pierre in New York.

To view this recognition, please click here.

On November 27, 2017, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a New York Law Journal article entitled, “Convictions Roil Big Law Firms as Partners Seek 'The Good Life.'” The article discusses the trend of notable Big Law partner convictions throughout 2017, and highlights the increasing awareness and greater media coverage of such cases. To read more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, November 1, 2017 – Morvillo Abramowitz was recognized in the 2018 edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers’ “Best Law Firms.” The firm was ranked nationally in the practice area of Criminal Defense: White-Collar, and in Metropolitan Tier 1 in the practice areas of Corporate Compliance Law and Criminal Defense: White-Collar and in Metropolitan Tier 2 in Corporate Governance Law.

Published in almost 70 countries around the world, the Best Lawyers publication is the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. For more than three decades, Best Lawyers lists have earned the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals anywhere.

NEW YORK, October 27, 2017 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been selected for The Global Investigations Review 100 2017 guide. Based on extensive research, GIR has selected 100 firms from around the world that are able to handle sophisticated cross-border, government-led, and internal investigations.

NEW YORK, October 16, 2017 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC Tier 1 nationally in the White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations category, Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York, and recognized all of the firm’s partners. Acknowledged as “Litigation Stars” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations are Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence S. Bader, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partners Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro are named “Litigation Stars” in the area of General Commercial Litigation, and Jeremy H. Temkin is named a “Litigation Star” in both the areas of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations and General Commercial Litigation. Partners Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Brian A. Jacobs, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Robert M. Radick have been selected as “Future Stars.”

As noted by a peer, “many other firms are trying to ramp up their white-collar practices right now, hiring aggressively out of the government and so forth, but Morvillo Abramowitz still has an edge on most of them. Not only have their lawyers been at this game longer than most who are still practicing, but they are seasoned with years of wisdom and trial experience. They know what works and what doesn’t, what arguments will hold up and when to employ them. And for a relatively small firm, their bench is surprisingly deep.” Clients have expressed their appreciation as well. One client applauds Morvillo Abramowitz and states that the firm is “simply the best at what they do.” Another confirms, “if you’re in need of counsel regarding really serious concerns, you don’t mess around and ‘window shop.’ You just go straight to the experts – you go to Morvillo.”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, September 20, 2017 – Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been named 2017 New York Super Lawyers as well as several counsel and associates, who have been distinguished as New York Rising Stars.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations.

NEW YORK, September 1, 2017 – Several Morvillo Abramowitz partners have been recognized as experts in Who’s Who Legal: Business Crime Defence 2017, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Jonathan S. Sack. Partner Elkan Abramowitz also has been named a “Thought Leader.” Who’s Who Legal recognizes “Thought Leaders” as individuals who have been identified as “truly outstanding practitioners and the very best in their field,” and those who have received the highest number of nominations from peers, corporate counsel, and other market sources.

Since 1996, Who's Who Legal has identified the foremost legal practitioners in business law based upon comprehensive, independent research.

To view the full editorial section, please click here.

On August 26, 2017, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a Financial Times article entitled, “US may struggle to extradite SocGen bankers over Libor.” The article addresses the recent indictment of French Société Générale bankers, Danielle Sindzingre and Muriel Bescond, over alleged Libor rigging, and discusses the sizeable hurdles that U.S. authorities will need to overcome if they are to successfully prosecute these two executives. To read more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

On July 28, 2017, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a New York Law Journal article entitled, “Prosecutors, Litigators Face New Reality After 'Allen.'” The article discusses the recent decision in United States v. Allen, and highlights the new reality after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit curtailed compelled testimony use in cross-border prosecutions. To read more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, July 11, 2017 – All charges pending against Sean Ewing were dismissed by the Honorable John A. Kronstadt of the Central District of California. Mr. Ewing’s representation was spearheaded by Robert J. Anello, Judith L. Mogul, and Peter Janowski. The result is an unqualified victory for Mr. Ewing, who, among others, had been the subject of an investigation by the government into the fraudulent market manipulation committed by Florian Homm, the former Chief Investment Officer of Absolute Capital Management, a $3.25 billion investment management company. Mr. Ewing had founded ACM and built it through his acquisition of Homm’s investment business and other businesses, including Argo Capital Management. He also served as its Chairman of the Board and CEO. The dismissed charges were books and records violations that did not contain any allegations of fraud or intent to deceive on the part of Mr. Ewing. Those charges have now been dismissed. Additionally, last year, a resolution was reached resulting in the dismissal of all charges in a civil case pending against Mr. Ewing in the Southern District of New York and of forfeiture proceedings in the Central District of California. These resolutions have vindicated Mr. Ewing from any allegation that he could or had been involved with Florian Homm’s fraud.

NEW YORK, June 29, 2017 – The Legal 500 United States 2017 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in both Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense and Securities Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recommended, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Brian A. Jacobs, and Jeremy H. Temkin within Corporate Investigations & White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Judith L. Mogul, and Edward M. Spiro within Securities Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been recognized as a “Leading Trial Lawyer” in this year’s edition for his outstanding skills in the courtroom.

Praising the firm’s capabilities, sources note that, “it is fantastic, a very fine firm with significant trial experience,” and “has a top white-collar team that helps clients with securities litigation thanks to really smart advocates.” Other clients rave that, “the firm is an excellent New York Litigation boutique with quality people and great strength in depth.”

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring US firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

On May 26, 2017, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a Law360 article entitled, “UN Bribery Trial Tees Up Questions On FCPA, Corruption.” The article discusses the recent case against a Chinese businessman accused of bribing U.N. officials, which raises unique considerations about the scope of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and other U.S. bribery laws. To read more on this topic and review Bob’s comments, please click here.

NEW YORK, May 26, 2017 – Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking, Band 1. The firm also is recognized in FCPA, Securities: Regulation: Enforcement, and Litigation: General Commercial. The firm is regarded as an “esteemed litigation boutique, widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice and increasing activity in civil litigation.” Clients praise the firm and note that working with the team “has been a superb experience… they are incredibly strong in terms of ability and knowledge and they work well together… from the most senior down to the most junior they are all really good.”

More than half of the firm's partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, Robert M. Radick, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg; and Litigation: General Commercial: Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro. Indeed, the firm has more partners who are ranked in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations than any other firm. The firm is known for its “impressive breadth of expertise” and “fields a deep bench of litigators whose experience includes acting on some of the most high-profile criminal trials of recent times, as well as advising on internal investigations.”

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the U.S. with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the U.S. and worldwide.

NEW YORK, February 8, 2017 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been selected by Law360 as a 2016 White Collar Practice Group of the Year. Law360’s profile focuses on the firm’s successful representation at trial of Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP’s former chairman Steven Davis, its involvement in the high-profile VimpelCom Ltd. FCPA investigation and subsequent settlement (one of the largest in U.S. history), and its victory at trial in a long-running litigation matter. Partner Robert J. Anello noted that, “the continued success of the firm and its white collar group largely flows from a collaborative work culture that’s less structured on hierarchy and more focused on collecting ideas.”

Law360’s Practice Groups of the Year series recognizes “law firms that racked up victories in litigation and closed the big deals to make their mark among clients and throughout the legal industry.” Now in its seventh year, the Practice Groups of the Year series received more than 600 submissions, and only five were chosen for the White Collar category.

For more information, please click here.

On November 9, 2016, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a Thomson Reuters article entitled, “Trump due in court before Oval Office.” The article highlights how President-elect Donald Trump could potentially face a federal jury in California. If the trial moves forward, there are many difficulties seating an impartial jury, since there are various strong opinions regarding Trump’s election. As Bob noted, “if experienced pollsters can't get it right, how can a jury consultant who is not spending as much time studying the demographics?”

On November 9, 2016, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in a New York Law Journal article entitled, “After Trump's Triumph, a Cloudy Crystal Ball for Firm Leaders.” The article addresses the cautious optimism that New York’s law firm leaders and legal industry observers have about their practices faring under a different regulatory and business environment. Bob notes that, “the most significant impact on the legal industry will be the personnel change at the U.S. Department of Justice” and predicts that, “many sitting U.S. attorneys will soon transition out of public service.” While Trump has said he wants to reduce regulations on manufacturing and other industries, Bob adds that, “it's not yet clear if there will be fewer regulations and enforcement against Wall Street banks.”

NEW YORK, November 2, 2016 – Morvillo Abramowitz was recognized in the 2017 edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers’ “Best Law Firms.” The firm was ranked Tier 1 in the practice areas of Corporate Compliance Law and Criminal Defense: White-Collar, and Tier 2 in the practice area of Corporate Governance Law.

Published in almost 70 countries around the world, the Best Lawyers publication is the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. For more than three decades, Best Lawyers lists have earned the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals anywhere.

NEW YORK, October 19, 2016 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in Tier 1 nationally in the White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations category, Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York, and recognized all of the firm’s partners. Acknowledged as “Litigation Stars” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations are Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partners Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro are named “Litigation Stars” in the area of General Commercial Litigation, and Jeremy H. Temkin was named a “Litigation Star” in both the areas of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations and General Commercial Litigation. Furthermore, Lawrence S. Bader, Benjamin S. Fischer, Catherine M. Foti, Brian A. Jacobs, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Robert M. Radick have been selected as “Future Stars.”

In addition to being named a “Litigation Star,” partner Elkan Abramowitz is listed as a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer in America.” The winners were chosen on a geographically diverse and intensive peer-and-client review-driven study over the six months of the research as being the elite trial strategists in their respective fields. He was also ranked as a national “Top 10 Practitioner” in the practice area of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations.

Benchmark Litigation notes one peer’s observation that “many other firms are trying to ramp up their white-collar practices right now, hiring aggressively out of the government and so forth, but Morvillo Abramowitz still has an edge on most of them. Not only have their lawyers been at this game longer than most who are still practicing, but they are seasoned with years of wisdom and trial experience. They know what works and what doesn’t, what arguments will hold up and when to employ them. And for a relatively small firm, their bench is surprisingly deep.” Clients have expressed their appreciation as well. One applauds Morvillo Abramowitz by stating that the firm is “simply the best at what they do.” Another confirms, “if you’re in need of counsel regarding really serious concerns, you don’t mess around and ‘window shop.’ You just go straight to the experts – you go to Morvillo.”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, October 4, 2016 – Morvillo Abramowitz was selected for The GIR 100 2016 guide. Based on extensive research, GIR selected 100 firms from around the world that are able to handle sophisticated cross-border, government-led, and internal investigations. GIR noted that "with a slew of big-name cases on the firm's books, including advising the supervisory board of embattled telecoms company VimpelCom, the past year has been a busy one for New York boutique Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello."

To view the full list, please click here.

NEW YORK, September 21, 2016 – Sixteen Morvillo Abramowitz partners and counsel were named 2016 New York Super Lawyers, and four associates were named New York Rising Stars. Two lawyers were also named to Top Lists: Elkan Abramowitz was named to the Top 100 New York Super Lawyers list and Catherine M. Foti was named to the Top 50 Women Super Lawyers list.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.

NEW YORK, July 18, 2016 — All charges in a criminal complaint pending against the former Chief Executive Officer of Absolute Capital Management (“ACM”), a $3.25 billion investment management company based in Majorca, were dismissed with prejudice in the Central District of California pursuant to a Deferred Prosecution Agreement negotiated on Mr. Ewing’s behalf by partners Robert J. Anello and Judith L. Mogul, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in that district. The result is a victory for Mr. Ewing, who, for the past three years, has been the subject of an investigation by the government into the fraudulent market manipulation committed by Florian Homm, the former Chief Investment Officer of ACM. Simultaneously, a resolution was reached resulting in the dismissal of all charges in a civil case pending against Mr. Ewing in the Southern District of New York and putative forfeiture proceedings in the Central District of California. Mr. Ewing was advised by partners Robert J. Anello, Judith L. Mogul, and associate Peter Janowski.

NEW YORK, July 14, 2016 – Partners Robert J. Anello and Brian A. Jacobs, and associate Devin M. Cain represented Su Bin, a foreign national, in connection with his indictment by the DOJ relating to allegations of theft of military contractor trade secrets. As a result of the firm’s representation, the team was able to broker a plea deal while the client was being held in Canada awaiting extradition. The client, who was indicted on six counts where one of the substantive charges carried a 20-year maximum and another carried a 10-year maximum, pleaded guilty only to a one-count conspiracy information which capped the prison exposure at five years. The client was sentenced to a term about 20% less than what the government asked for and probation had recommended, after the court agreed to a variance based on arguments concerning the client’s extraordinary acceptance of responsibility and generosity throughout his life.

NEW YORK, June 16, 2016 – The Legal 500 United States 2016 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in both White-Collar Criminal Defense and Securities Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recommended, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F.  Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence S. Bader, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg within White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Brian A. Jacobs, and Edward M. Spiro within Securities Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been recognized as a “leading trial lawyer” in this year’s edition for his outstanding skills in the courtroom.

Praising the firm’s capabilities, sources note that, “the lawyers are tremendous and superb at understanding intricate problems and protecting clients’ interests.” Other clients rave that, “the firm has a very talented, experienced and tough team … who are at the top of their game.”

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring US firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

NEW YORK, May 26, 2016 – Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking, Band 1. The firm also is recognized in FCPA, Securities: Regulation: Enforcement, and Litigation: General Commercial. It is noted that the team is known as an “esteemed litigation boutique, widely acclaimed for its market-leading white-collar defense practice and increasing activity in civil litigation.” Clients praise the firm, noting, "it's an absolutely top-flight firm. It has fantastic lawyers with great experience, and always has excellent associates too."

More than half of the firm's partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Lawrence Iason and Richard D. Weinberg; and Litigation: General Commercial: Judith Mogul. Clients applaud the team, noting, "they are very smart and strategic, and just good to deal with. They're some of the best white-collar lawyers in New York.”

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the U.S. with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the U.S. and worldwide.

On March 29, 2016, partner Robert J. Anello was featured in Law360’s Trial Series. The Q&A segment highlights Mr. Anello’s impressive career as a trial lawyer and provides a glance into some of Mr. Anello’s most memorable trials.

Click here to read the full conversation.

NEW YORK, February 18, 2016—Amsterdam-based telecommunications company VimpelCom, Ltd. today announced the resolution of potential charges under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act with the United States Department of Justice and the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and resolution of potential charges under Dutch anti-corruption law with the Dutch Public Prosecutor’s Office. Under the three resolutions, which were negotiated separately but which comprised a global termination of investigation into the alleged conduct, VimpelCom agreed to pay a total of $795 million in penalties and disgorgement to be divided among the three agencies. VimpelCom and its subsidiary, Unitel, were alleged to have made improper payments to a government official in Uzbekistan in connection with VimpelCom’s entry into in the Uzbekistan mobile telecommunications market in 2006. The FCPA investigation and subsequent settlement has been widely referred to as one of the largest in U.S. history. The Supervisory Board of VimpelCom Ltd. was advised by a team led by partner Robert J. Anello, including partner Jeremy H. Temkin, and associates Peter Janowski, Devin Cain, Kostya Lantsman, and Ashley Burns.

NEW YORK, January 28, 2016 – Morvillo Abramowitz has been named a Law360 White Collar Practice Group of the Year for 2015. Law360's profile focuses on the firm’s successful representation of Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP’s former chairman Steven Davis, who after a lengthy and complex trial, was acquitted of many charges. The jury deadlocked on the remaining counts, and Morvillo Abramowitz attorneys subsequently negotiated a deferred prosecution agreement for Mr. Davis under which all criminal charges would ultimately be dismissed and he would not admit any wrongdoing. The profile also discusses the firm’s representation of attorney Evan Greebel in a criminal case being prosecuted in the Eastern District of New York.

Law360’s Practice Groups of the Year series recognizes “firms that came through for clients by sealing the biggest deals and securing wins in high-stakes litigation.”

To view the full profile, please click here.

NEW YORK, October 22, 2015 – Partner Robert J. Anello recently authored  “White Collar Crime,” a chapter in the highly regarded treatise Commercial Litigation in New York State Courts, Fourth Edition. The treatise is a joint venture of Thomson Reuters and the New York County Lawyers’ Association and features the work of experts authors, including some of the best commercial litigators in New York.

NEW YORK, October 15, 2015 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in Tier 1 nationally in the White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations category, and Highly Recommended (the guide’s top honor) in New York. Indeed, almost all of the firm’s partners have been named “Litigation Stars” in the area of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations, including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partners Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro were named “Litigation Stars” in the area of General Commercial Litigation. In addition, Benjamin S. Fischer, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Robert M. Radick have been named “Future Stars.”

Benchmark Litigation notes that, “some clients are unquestionably forthcoming when it comes to their regard for the firm's individual and collective acumen: ‘We have worked with a number of their attorneys, and we turn to them on sensitive matters we need handled carefully; they address all key issues, they are attuned to the details, and leave no stone unturned. Quite simply, they are the best at what they do.’”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, September 17, 2015 – Morvillo Abramowitz was included in “50 Law Firms Professionals Should Know About.” In addition, all partners and select counsel were named 2015 New York Super Lawyers, and three associates were named New York Rising Stars. Three lawyers were also named to Top Lists: Elkan Abramowitz was named to the Top 100 New York Super Lawyers list, and Catherine M. Foti and Judith L. Mogul were named to the Top 50 Women Super Lawyers list.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.

On August 1, 2015, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello explained extradition law in a New York Daily News article, “Kids are all right,” which discussed the recent killing of Cecil the Lion by Minnesota dentist, Walter Palmer.

NEW YORK, June 17, 2015 - Partner Robert J. Anello was interviewed by “Talkin Law.” The interview focused on the recent high-profile FIFA case, as well as Mr. Anello’s related blog, “FI-FA Fo Fum: Who Gets to Prosecute Non-Americans.”

Please find the link to the full interview here.

"Talkin Law" with Dan Hochheiser analyzes criminal cases in the news, trends in the law, and covers all legal current events.

The Legal 500 United States 2015 has recommended Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in both White-Collar Criminal Defense and Securities: Shareholder Litigation. Indeed, more than half of the firm’s partners have been recommended, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Jonathan S. Sack, and Jeremy H. Temkin within White-Collar Criminal Defense; and Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence S. Bader, Lawrence Iason, Judith L. Mogul, Jonathan S. Sack, Edward M. Spiro, and Richard D. Weinberg within Securities: Shareholder Litigation. In addition, Elkan Abramowitz has been recognized as a “leading trial lawyer” in this year’s edition for his outstanding skills in the courtroom.

Praising the firm’s capabilities, sources note that the group is “outstanding in regulatory litigation.”

Since 2006, The Legal 500 United States has been analyzing the capabilities of law firms nationwide, honoring US firms that couple a national presence with the capability to handle sophisticated and complex work. Each year, the publication highlights those legal teams who consistently uphold quality over quantity.

NEW YORK, May 22, 2015 - Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC has been ranked by Who’s Who Legal 100 in the top 20 in the category of Asset Recovery, Business Crime Defence & Investigations. Who’s Who Legal has also named 7 partners as experts in Business Crime Defence, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Paul R. Grand, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, Jonathan S. Sack, and Richard D. Weinberg.

Please find the full editorial section here.

Since 2005, Law Business Research’s Who’s Who Legal has listed only the leading lawyers in each field based exclusively on the findings of in-depth research. Who’s Who Legal draws on 18 years of independent research encompassing thousands of hours of interviews with leading lawyers and hundreds of thousands of votes and recommendations, in order to identify the best law firms in the world. For more information, please visit www.whoswholegal.com.

Since its inception, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business Guide has recognized Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC for excellence in Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations with its highest ranking, Band 1. The firm is also recognized in FCPA. It is noted that the team is known for its "enviable reputation as a boutique litigation practice, with excellent bench strength and formidable experience in complex criminal investigations. It also boasts impressive courtroom expertise, and bolsters its practice with notable cross-border strength and skill in civil litigation. It is considered a go-to practice for individuals and corporations facing major investigations or criminal proceedings."

More than half of the firm's partners were named leading lawyers by Chambers USA in the categories of Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations: Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Robert M. Radick, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg; and Securities: Regulation: Enforcement: Richard D. Weinberg. Clients praise the firm, noting, '"they're one of the leading white-collar boutiques in the city – they're the gold standard.'" Clients also echo that, '"they have a very deep bench on the FCPA side, and the quality across the board is good.'"

Since 1990, Chambers and Partners has been researching the legal profession, identifying the leading lawyers and law firms through in-depth and client-focused interviews with thousands of lawyers and their clients. Known for its independence and the objectivity of its research, Chambers USA ranks the leading firms and lawyers in an extensive range of practice areas throughout the U.S. with their guides read by industry-leading companies, organizations, and law firms throughout the U.S. and worldwide.

On December 18, 2014, Morvillo Abramowitz partner Robert J. Anello was quoted in an MSNBC article, “As U.S.-Cuba Tension Thaws, the Fate of a Fugitive is in Question,” which discusses the question of whether or not Assata Shakur, formerly JoAnne Chesimard and the step-aunt of deceased rapper Tupac Shakur, will be extradited back to the U.S. to carry out the remainder of her life sentence. Mr. Anello stated, “It certainly will be easier than when we weren’t talking to Cuba, although it may not be the first order of priority.” He also said, “You will see both countries trying to do things to foster better relations.”

Law Journal Press recently published new book covers for the treatise White Collar Crime: Business and Regulatory Offenses, to recognize the contribution of partner Robert J. Anello, who became an editor of the treatise in 2012. The treatise has been described as “a fundamental and essential addition to every practitioners bookshelf.”

NEW YORK, November 5, 2014 - Partner and Federal Bar Council President Robert J. Anello gave testimony before the Advisory Committee on Criminal Rules. In his capacity as Federal Bar Council President, Bob commended the Advisory Committee on Criminal Rules for its work developing the amendment to Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 41. Further, he noted that the Federal Bar Council supports the proposed amendment to Rule 41 and recommends that the Advisory Committee submit the proposed amendment to the Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure.

NEW YORK, October 31, 2014 - Who’s Who Legal: Business Crime Defense 2014 names 7 Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC partners as experts, including Elkan Abramowitz, Robert J. Anello, Paul R. Grand, Lawrence Iason, Jodi Misher Peikin, Jonathan S. Sack, and Richard D. Weinberg. Partner Elkan Abramowitz has also been singled out as one of the 8 “Most Highly Regarded Individuals” across the U.S.

Please find the full editorial section here.

Since 2005, Law Business Research’s Who’s Who Legal has listed only the leading lawyers in each field based exclusively on the findings of in-depth research. Who’s Who Legal draws on 18 years of independent research encompassing thousands of hours of interviews with leading lawyers and hundreds of thousands of votes and recommendations, in order to identify the best law firms in the world. For more information, please visit www.whoswholegal.com.

NEW YORK, October 24, 2014 – Benchmark Litigation ranked Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC in Tier 1 in the White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations category. Indeed, almost all of the firm’s partners have been named “Litigation Stars,” including Elkan Abramowitz, Richard F. Albert, Robert J. Anello, Lawrence Iason, Jonathan S. Sack, Jeremy H. Temkin, and Richard D. Weinberg in the area of White-Collar Crime/Enforcement/Investigations. Partners Judith L. Mogul and Edward M. Spiro have been named “Litigation Stars” in the area of General Commercial Litigation. In addition, Benjamin S. Fischer, Jodi Misher Peikin, and Robert M. Radick have been named “Future Stars.”

“Client feedback on the firm is resounding and plentiful; one such client in particular cheers, ‘[…] Integrity and talent to defend on principle: sadly, a novel concept these days, but not with this firm.’”

Please find the full editorial section here.

Benchmark Litigation is the Definitive Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, Benchmark Litigation’s guide is derived from a process of extensive research and interviews with litigators and their clients.

NEW YORK, September 23, 2014 – All partners and select counsel and associates from Morvillo Abramowitz have been named 2014 New York Super Lawyers and New York Rising Stars. Three lawyers were also named to Top Lists: Elkan Abramowitz was named to the Top 100 New York Super Lawyers List, and Judith Mogul and Catherine Foti were named to the Top 50 Women Super Lawyers List.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.

Partner and Federal Bar Council President Robert J. Anello, left, poses with honoree, Eastern District Judge Joseph F. Bianco, second from left, at the annual Central Islip Reception on Wednesday, May 14, 2014. Anello is joined by Eastern District Chief Judge Carol Bagley Amon and courthouse committee chairman Anton Borovina.

The Honorable Joseph F. Bianco was celebrated for his service to the Long Island Bench and Bar.

Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello featured in Law360 on being a rainmaker and shares his thoughts on generating business, excelling in the legal sphere, and maintaining client relations.

In a recent New York Law Journal opinion piece, Partner and Federal Bar Council President Robert Anello addresses how severely the budget sequester has compromised both the courts and the Federal Defenders' ability to fulfill their constitutional duties.

On Friday, July 19, 2013 Partner Robert Anello sat down with Huffington Post Live to discuss the fate of Edward Snowden and the complexities of extradition. Huffington Post aired the segment after continuing debates about Snowden’s actions and the implications of international laws.

Click here to view the entire segment. 

Morvillo Abramowitz Partner and Federal Bar Council President Robert Anello discusses the nation’s swelling prison population and calls upon fellow attorneys to reconsider the current state of the country’s penal system.

On Thursday, June 13, 2013, Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello appeared on Huffington Post Live in a segment discussing options for fugitives attempting to evade the U.S. legal system. Huffington Post aired the legal discourse after recent controversy surrounding Edward Snowden and Julian Assange. Anello was joined by Ryan Grim, Huffington Post Washington Bureau Chief, and Widney Brown, Senior Director of International Law and Policy at Amnesty International.

Click here to view the entire segment.

On Wednesday, May 22, 2013 Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello participated in a reception hosted by the Federal Bar Council honoring attorneys of the Federal Defenders of New York at the D'Amato Federal Courthouse in Central Islip, New York. Mr. Anello currently serves as the President of the Federal Bar Council, an organization of lawyers who practice in federal courts within the Second Circuit. 

Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello was quoted in “White-Collar Boutiques Find Their Niche in a Crowded Market” (February 27, 2013 New York Law Journal) which discusses white collar defense work and the law firms who focus on this practice area. Anello noted that while there are more cases in the white-collar arena, there is also more competition now coming from large firms saying, "When the practice was in its infancy some 35 years ago, white-collar firms were almost exclusively boutiques, because large corporate firms did not want to get involved in criminal practice.” He went on to say that investigations are one of the largest drivers of business for Morvillo Abramowitz, which represents both companies and individuals subject to the internal investigations. Speaking on the long-term prospects of the white-collar practice, Anello said, "You see the recent [regulatory and criminal] settlements. The numbers are very big so that companies will increasingly have the need for white-collar lawyers to protect them and guide them through the shoals of criminal multi-national investigations because the stakes are so high," he said. Click here to read the full article.

NEW YORK, February 14, 2013 – Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC, a leading New York litigation boutique, was named to The National Law Journal’s Litigation Boutiques Hot List. Morvillo Abramowitz was chosen because of a string of high-profile successes in white collar criminal defense, securities enforcement, civil litigation, and government investigations in 2012.

“Some of the biggest victories won by Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello are the cases that no one ever hears about,” writes Leigh Jones of The National Law Journal. “Representing white-collar clients who avoid prosecution — and the media spotlight — provides some of the most satisfying wins for the 44-lawyer operation.”

The ten firms selected — boutiques, but commanding attention — each field no more than 50 lawyers. Selection is based on important litigation won during the calendar year 2012 whether in monetary terms or by establishing important precedents — at the trial or appellate level.

Though many of Morvillo Abramowitz’s matters never make headlines, the firm achieved public successes in 2012 including: the successful defense of former officers and directors at Merck & Co. Inc. in derivative litigation arising from claims that the drug maker delayed disappointing results of a clinical drug trial; a $16 million jury award in a SDNY trial in two civil actions for Donald Drapkin, former vice chairman of Ronald Perelman owned MacAndrews & Forbes Holdings Inc.; a United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit victory for a former officer and director of Cayman Islands-based investment manager Absolute Capital Management Holdings Ltd.; and a settlement for a former executive at WAMU alleged to have misled investors about the health of the bank’s mortgage lending business.

NEW YORK, February 1, 2013 – Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello PC, a leading New York litigation boutique, was awarded the Northeast White Collar Crime Firm of the Year Benchmark Litigation Award, recognizing the Firm's prominence in white collar criminal defense, securities enforcement, and government investigations, at a ceremony held last night, January 31, 2013 at New York’s Essex House Hotel.

"Peer review conducted during the research cycle for the 2013 edition of Benchmark overwhelmingly spoke toward the depth and prestige of Morvillo Abramowitz’s white-collar practice," says Anne Szustek, deputy editor of Benchmark Litigation. "The firm’s defense practice hits a sweet spot between having its clientele keep a low profile while having a case load of matters too influential not to make headlines."

In September 2012 the firm was recognized as a top, Tier 1 national firm in white collar criminal defense by Benchmark Litigation 2013, the Guide to America's Leading Litigation Firms and Attorneys. Elkan Abramowitz, Robert Anello, Paul Grand and Lawrence Iason were also ranked as national stars by Benchmark Litigation for their white collar defense work. The firm also ranked as highly recommended in New York, with Elkan Abramowitz, Robert Anello, Paul Grand and Lawrence Iason listed as stars and Stephen Juris listed as a future star.

Benchmark Litigation, published by Euromoney Legal Media Group, is the only publication on the market to focus exclusively on litigation in the US. The guide's results are the culmination of a six-month research period that allows researchers to conduct extensive interviews with litigators and their clients. This is the first nationwide awards event that the publication is hosting. The awards follow similar successful events held by Benchmark's sibling publications International Financial Law Review, International Tax Review, and Managing Intellectual Property.

Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello is the current President of the Federal Bar Council, an organization of lawyers who practice in federal courts within the Second Circuit. In his first quarterly column as President, Mr. Anello explains why he is proud of his fellow lawyers for their contributions to the community.

A Morvillo Abramowitz team led by Robert J. Anello, along with Jodi Misher Peikin, Sidhardha Kamaraju and Sean Nuttall, obtained an injunction preventing disgruntled investors in an independent defunct hedge fund from pursuing claims against Banc of America Securities. Investors who had been defrauded by the perpetrators of one of the largest securities frauds in Florida history filed several lawsuits against prime broker Banc of America Securities in both state and federal court, seeking to recover losses caused by the convicted hedge fund operators. In 2007, the Morvillo Abramowitz team successfully obtained the dismissal of the investors' claims in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. The Eleventh Circuit affirmed that decision in 2010, in a significant ruling for prime brokers. While the Eleventh Circuit was considering the appeal, however, the investors commenced yet another lawsuit in Florida state court against Banc of America Securities, asserting the same essential claims. Invoking the All Writs Act and the Anti-Injunction Act, Morvillo Abramowitz successfully persuaded the District Court to protect its previous judgment and the judgment entered by the Eleventh Circuit by permanently enjoining the investors from pursuing claims against Banc of America Securities.

On Tuesday, October 23, 2012 Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello was elected President of the Federal Bar Council. Mr. Anello, who will serve a two year term, was inducted on Wednesday, November 21, 2012 at the Federal Bar Council’s Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon. Most recently Mr. Anello served as President-Elect of the Federal Bar Council and served on its Executive Committee.

Founded in 1932, the Federal Bar Council is comprised of more than 3,700 lawyers who practice in the federal courts of the Second Circuit. Members include judges, prosecutors, public defenders, professors, experienced private lawyers at firms of all sizes, and lawyers who are just starting out in practice.

On Tuesday September 25, 2012 the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to consider an appeal by fund manager Marc Gabelli, who accused the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission of waiting too long to bring a civil case accusing him of letting a client engage in so-called market timing. In U.S. Top Court to Hear Marc Gabelli Appeal in SEC Case, Thomson Reuters notes that, "The case hinges on the question of when the statute of limitations clock begins to tick." Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert Anello, who wrote a NYLJ article on the statute of limitations in SEC enforcement actions, is quoted in this article.

On March 1, 2012, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit agreed with Morvillo Abramowitz in a precedent setting case applying the Supreme Court’s decision in Morrison v. National Australia Bank Ltd., which limited the extraterritorial reach of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In Absolute Activist Value Master Fund Ltd., v. Ficeto,--- F.3d ----, 2012 WL 661771 (2d Cir. Mar. 1, 2012), the Second Circuit affirmed the dismissal of all claims brought by nine Cayman Islands hedge funds against former officers and directors of investment manger Absolute Capital Management Holdings Ltd., and its broker-dealer, for losses from an alleged scheme involving stocks in small-cap United States companies. Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert J. Anello was lead counsel before the district court and argued the Second Circuit appeal on behalf of Sean Ewing, the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Absolute Capital Management. 

In its decision, the Second Circuit explained that in order to allege sufficiently the existence of a “domestic transaction” in an off-market securities transaction after Morrison, a plaintiff must allege facts suggesting that either “irrevocable liability was incurred or title transferred within the United States.” After reviewing the sixty-one page complaint, the Second Circuit found the allegations in this regard insufficient, but remanded to the district court to provide the plaintiffs an opportunity to re-plead. The Second Circuit directed the district court on remand also to consider alternate arguments for dismissing the case, including failure to state a claim, expiration of the statute of limitations, and lack of personal jurisdiction. Morvillo Abramowitz lawyers Judith L. Mogul and Eli J. Mark also represent Mr. Ewing in this matter.

Directors & Boards Corporate Governance for Thought Leaders January 2012 E-Briefing features Morvillo Abramowitz Partners Jonathan S. Sack, Catherine M. Foti and Robert J. Anello commenting on the attorney-client privilege as one of the critical issues facing directors today, including how it applies to corporations, internal investigation 'work product' with respect to privilege, considerations when privileged materials are inadvertently disclosed to third parties, and applications of privilege outside the United States. To view the entire Q&A click here.

On Wednesday, July 13, 2011, Robert J. Anello was interviewed by Lee Pacchia of BloombergLaw on the News Corp hacking scandal. Mr. Anello discussed the intricacies of internal investigations, what this event means for others in the media industry, and the possibility of DOJ and SEC investigations.

On March 2, 2011, Morvillo Abramowitz, led by Partners Robert J. Anello and Judith L. Mogul, won the dismissal of all claims against a well-regarded private wealth management company brought by three former investors in Westchester County Supreme Court. The private wealth management company had provided the investors with decades of outstanding, long-term investment management services, earning the primary investor millions in profit. In the wake of the general financial downturn in 2008 and Bernard Madoff’s now-infamous fraud, the investors sought to hold the wealth management company liable for the reduction in their portfolios’ profits, including for losses that the primary investor sustained in two indirect investments in Madoff feeder funds. 

The principal investor had previously brought and lost an arbitration before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) against a number of entities and individuals related to the wealth management company. In the subsequent New York State-court action, the judge accepted the argument advanced by Morvillo Abramowitz that the FINRA arbitration precluded relitigation of the primary investor’s claims. The court held that the plaintiff “cannot pursue the same claims in another forum against the same parties or their privi[ti]es.” It dismissed all claims against the private wealth management company by the investor with prejudice. The court also dismissed with prejudice the fraud claims brought by the remaining two plaintiffs who were not parties to the arbitration, and also dismissed without prejudice negligence and breach of fiduciary duty claims by the same plaintiffs.

On Wednesday, November 24, 2010, Robert J. Anello was interviewed on CNBC about the intricacies of determining what insider trading is and what it isn't.

Morvillo Abramowitz Partner Robert J. Anello was among a group of distinguished authors who were honored on November 15, 2010 by the New York County Lawyers’ Association and Thomson West for their contributions to the recently published Third Edition of Commercial Litigation in New York State Courts. Mr. Anello authored a chapter on White Collar Crime, which is a new addition to the six-volume treatise. Commercial Litigation in New York State Courts is widely recognized as a leading resource on procedural and substantive legal issues in New York commercial litigation. In a review of the treatise published in the New York Law Journal on November 22, 2010, Thomas E. Mercure wrote:

"Given that parallel civil and criminal proceedings in business matters are increasingly common, the chapter on white collar crime and on the interplay between commercial litigation and criminal proceedings are particularly valuable. Both chapters are strategically focused, providing practical advice on the issues such as immunity, privileged materials, protective orders and the interplay between civil damages and criminal restitution."

In his chapter, “White Collar Crimes in the New York State System,” Mr. Anello provides an overview of New York criminal statutes and case law relied upon in the prosecution of crimes related to commercial litigation, the investigative bodies which prosecute such white collar crime, the criminal trial process in New York State, and how New York’s system differs from the federal system.

Additional information about the treatise can be found here.

In an important decision for prime brokers, on March 25, 2010, a panel of the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the district court’s dismissal with prejudice of a complaint against our client, Banc of America Securities LLC, in SFM Holdings, Ltd. v. Banc of America Securities, LLC, ---- F.3d -----, 2010 WL 1068230 (11th Cir. 2010). Partner Robert J. Anello was lead counsel before the district court and argued the Eleventh Circuit appeal on behalf of Banc of America. The appellant, SFM Holdings, Ltd., was one of nearly 200 hundred investors defrauded by corrupt investment advisors at Shoreland Trading; as part of its arrangement with Shoreland, SFM had opened a prime brokerage account with Banc of America. A central issue on appeal was SFM's claim that Banc of America owed (and breached) a fiduciary duty to SFM based on the agreements entered into by SFM to open its account and Banc of America's role as a prime broker. Accepting our arguments, the panel affirmed the district court's judgment, holding that the governing account documents specifically precluded imposition of a fiduciary duty on the bank. Notably, the majority also explained that traditionally, it is the introducing brokers—those brokers who have a relationship with and provide investment advice to the client—that assume a fiduciary duty to the client; the prime or executing broker—the broker who merely executes securities transactions at the direction of the client or introducing broker—normally does not owe such a duty.

Robert Anello discusses an unusual "war story" in the September, 2007 issue of the New York Law Journal Magazine. The full article may be found here.