New York boutique Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello remains one of the most respected names in white-collar criminal defense, investigations, and high-stakes civil litigation. Peers consistently identify the firm as a first call for executives, individuals, and companies confronting sensitive criminal and regulatory matters. One peer calls the firm “an outstanding, top-tier boutique in both white collar and high-stakes civil matters,” noting that “every partner does excellent work,” while another goes so far as to describe its lawyers as the “Benchmark” for New York criminal lawyers. Clients similarly emphasize the firm’s responsiveness and efficiency, with one succinctly describing the team as “communicative and efficient.”

The firm's deep white-collar bench continues to generate considerable market recognition. Lisa Zornberg, a former chief of the Criminal Division for the Southern District of New York, is drawing praise for a practice spanning both criminal and civil matters. One peer simply calls her “great,” while another describes her as “equally adept at complex civil and white collar matters, with substantial experience in both criminal and civil arenas.” Telemachus "Tim" Kasulis is commended for his "outstanding judgment in white collar and regulatory matters," with a peer praising his ability to obtain results "that other attorneys would not." Similarly, Thomas McKay earns praise for his judgment in criminal and regulatory matters and his effectiveness before both government authorities and fact-finders.

Other members of the white-collar team are earning enthusiastic endorsements of their own. Kate Cassidy is described by peers as a "super smart strategist in any criminal case" who "fights hard for her clients," with peers highlighting both her written and oral advocacy. Benjamin Fischer, meanwhile, is characterized by one peer as a “masterful white-collar and securities lawyer” to whom the source regularly turns when individual executives require representation. Another calls Fischer “a creative and brilliant litigator” who approaches strategic decisions with considerable care.

The firm's strength extends well beyond criminal investigations. Christopher Harwood earns some of the strongest client and peer feedback gathered during this year’s research. A client commends his command of the facts and case law, strategic focus and courtroom abilities, while a peer praises his judgment in civil litigation and ability to anticipate the government’s objectives in criminal investigations. Richard Albert is similarly recognized as a “superb trial lawyer” and “fierce advocate,” while Brian Jacobs is singled out as “excellent overall and especially adept at appeals.” Edward Spiro also draws recognition for commercial litigation, including his work on complex disputes involving ethics issues.

Clients continue to emphasize the firm's responsiveness, preparation, and client service. One client states that the lawyers are "extremely reliable in service and always available to talk," while another reports receiving "top-notch representation" throughout a federal matter, noting that communication and command of the case were "outstanding." Particular praise is directed at Karen King, who led a plaintiff-side trial representation this year. The client describes King as an exceptional communicator who is "extremely detail oriented and well versed in all aspects of legal matters," adding that she consistently exceeds expectations. According to the client, the team's performance reflected the firm's broader commitment to delivering representation "to the highest standards."

Taken together, peer and client feedback paints a picture of a boutique operating at the very top of the New York litigation market. As one peer succinctly observes, Morvillo's lawyers combine outstanding judgment, deep experience, and a collaborative approach that consistently produces excellent results across white-collar, investigations, appellate, and high-stakes civil matters.


Updated October 2026