Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello

Global

Review

United States (National)

Dispute resolution

Situated strategically in New York City, Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello has built a premier white-collar crime and investigations practice recognized nationwide as the “go-to” for both domestic and international clients. Its esteemed white-collar practice is complemented by capability in commercial and securities litigation, largely involving executives and cutting-edge issues, as well as employment-related litigation and high-profile and sensitive investigations. Former co-counsel and clients alike have praised its lawyers’ expertise and professionalism in and out of the court room. “Morvillo is a top-notch firm,” one states. “Their lawyers are extremely intelligent, seasoned, and professional. They provide superior legal services. It is a pleasure working with them.” Another depicts the lawyers as “very responsive and knowledgeable in their subject matter.”

     Karen King and Kate Cassidy debuted as Litigation Stars this year. King is a civil litigator, representing clients involved in issues from regulatory disputes to cryptocurrency – an area in which she is a thought-leader. She has represented crypto-related clients nationwide, including a provider of online cryptocurrency market data, in a putative class action lawsuit filed in the District of Arizona. The plaintiffs assert violations of state and federal law in relation to an alleged scheme that suppressed the value of HEX cryptocurrency. King obtained a motion to dismiss, arguing a lack of personal jurisdiction and a failure to plead cognizable claims and continues to represent the client on appeal. King has taken cases for clients up to the United States Supreme Court. She represented Narkis Golan, a domestic violence survivor and the mother of the young child at the center of the case in a matter challenging the Second Circuit’s precedent and interpretation of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of Child Abduction. King successfully prevailed before the US Supreme Court. Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor authored the unanimous opinion holding that the Second Circuit’s rule is inconsistent with the requirements and text of the Hague Convention, largely seen as a win for fellow survivors and their children. Cassidy is well-known for her expertise in high-profile criminal cases. She is currently representing Trump Organization members involved in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office investigation and trial regarding tax issues. Catherine Foti is distinguished for her prowess in investigations, especially those that highly sensitive and often in the public eye.

     One of the firm’s most recognized and celebrated lawyers is Elkan Abramowitz. A seasoned criminal defense litigator who is revered by clients and peers, Abramowitz is regularly called upon to handle the most sensitive and high-stakes cases. He has been working on investigations related to the Trump organization, including representing the Chief Executive Officer of American Media, the company that publishes the National Enquirer, in their involvement with the high-profile investigations related to the Michael Cohen and former President Donald Trump prosecutions brought by the SDNY and Manhattan District Attorney office. Richard Albert, a nationally recognized litigator in the field, works alongside Abramowitz on the case. On the litigation side, Abramowitz and Ed Spiro have moved to dismiss a lawsuit against former Governor Andrew Cuomo filed by the NRA alleging that he violated the association’s right to free speech and equal protection. He has been one of the go-to lawyers for COVID-19 related disputes, including a case representing CEO of MBE Capital, Rafael Martinez, against alleged claims of fraud related to loans provided under the Paycheck Protection Program. Robert Anello, another recognized name-partner, is well-known for his established expertise in investigating and litigating issues related to white-collar crime and regulatory compliance, and employment-related discrimination and sexual harassment allegations. He is one of the firm’s leaders in International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) investigations and defense. Richard Weinberg is an additional expert in regulatory and white-collar issues. Co-counsel in a white-collar and regulatory investigation shares their first-hand look into Weinberg’s handling of the case for the clients, saying, “Richard Weinberg has substantial experience and expertise. He has a strong reputation for quality work and integrity, and he’s responsive to the clients’ needs. He was able to provide real-world advice and problem solving.

     ”Described by peers as “very knowledgeable and experienced,” Jonathan Sack splits his time between handling high-profile investigations and litigation. He is representing an individual connection to Steve Bannon and his Southern District of New York (SDNY) investigation and the District Attorney of New York County’s case involving alleged fraudulent fundraising for “We Build the Wall”. He and Benjamin Fischer represent a former Blackrock portfolio manager, Randy Robertson, against alleged potential conflicts of interest related to a contested investment made in a film distribution company. Fischer and seasoned white-collar defense lawyer Lawrence Iason obtained a non-jail sentence representing former basketball player Milton Palacio in his criminal case involving allegations of fraudulent insurance claims.

     Morvillo’s distinguished Future Stars have received a chorus of praise from various co-counsel. Brian Jacobs is commended by co-counsel who says, “Brian is extremely intelligent, professional, knowledgeable, and personable. He is an exceptional lawyer and one of the best white-collar practitioners I know. He offers superior client service and handles difficult, highly complex cases.” Christopher Harwood is described by a peer as “brilliant, strategic, and careful,” especially when handling sensitive investigations. His experience in employment-related cases and investigations is also noteworthy.

     “I regularly refer clients to Telemachus “Tim” Kasulis at Morvillo,” contends a peer. “Tim is extremely analytical and experienced.  His trial skills are top notch, but, more importantly, his judgment is nuanced and exceptional.”  Robert Radick is recognized as an “excellent all-around lawyer who is thoughtful and thorough,” according to former co-counsel. “Rob is wonderful to work with.  He's smart and provides practical solutions to complex matters.”