Lowenstein's Justice Barry T. Albin (ret.), Matthew Boxer, Christopher Porrino, Chief Judge Freda L. Wolfson (Ret.), Kegan A. Brown, Craig Dashiell, Parimal Garg, Jason S. Gould, Mark S. Heinzelmann, Michael A. Kaplan, Colleen M. Restel, Jarrett R. Schindler, Rasmeet K. Chahil, Markiana J. Julceus, Mikayla R. Berliner, Alessandra M. Moore, and Sarah Scott are speaking at the New Jersey State Bar Association Annual Meeting & Convention. 

Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Panel: Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) and Multicounty Litigation (Mass Torts): Guidance from Leaders of the Bench and Bar

An all-star panel will provide practice tips and updates on key issues in federal multidistrict and New Jersey multicounty litigation, including (1) case trends, (2) selection of experts and surviving Daubert, (3) similarities, differences, and coordination between federal MDLs and state MCLs, (4) leadership considerations and getting a seat at the table, and (5) the role of special masters and mediators. Hear from current and former judges of the District of New Jersey and the Superior Court of New Jersey, who have presided over some of the largest MDLs and MCLs on record. The panel also includes trailblazing trial lawyers from both sides of the bar, who are recognized nationally for achieving landmark settlements as lead plaintiffs’ counsel and winning defense verdicts in multibillion-dollar jury trials.

Moderator:

Speakers:

  • Chief Judge Freda L. Wolfson (Ret.), Partner; Chair, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Hon. Christine P. O’Hearn, U.S.D.J., Camden
  • Hon. John C. Porto, P.J.Cv., Civil Presiding Judge for Vicinage One
  • Allison M. Brown, Esq., Kirkland & Ellis LLP
  • Christopher A. Seeger, Esq., Seeger Weiss LLP

Time: 1:30-3 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Bankruptcy Court Law Changes and Mass Tort Liability

Learn from this panel about efficacy and impact of recent bankruptcy court law changes by the Supreme Court and how that impacts the ability to address mass tort liability (e.g., church sex abuse, asbestos, talc) in the bankruptcy context.

Moderator/Speaker:

Speakers:

  • Hon. Christine M. Gravelle, U.S.B.J., U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey
  • Donald W. Clarke, Esq., Genova Burns LLC
  • Christopher M. Placitella, Esq., Editor in Chief, New Jersey Mass Tort & Class Actions Treatise (NJICLE 2020), Cohen, Placitella & Roth, PC

Time: 8:45-10 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Would Litigation Be Different if I Were a Man?

Gather for a timely discussion on gender dynamics in litigation. The panel will include a candid discussion by prominent female and male litigators, as well as jurists, on why certain conduct is perceived to be acceptable for men and not women, and conversely, whether heightened awareness of gender inequality has chilled zealous advocacy.

Moderator:

Speakers:

  • Michael A. Kaplan, Partner, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Hon. Madeline Cox Arleo, Law Office of Hon. Madeline Cox Arleo
  • Hon. Mitzy Galis-Menendez, P.J.Cr., Hudson County, Admin Building
  • Hon. Douglas E. Arpert (Ret.), Walsh Pizzi O'Reilly Falanga LLP
  • Alexandra V. Gallo, Esq., O'Toole Scrivo LLC
  • Kay Gonzalez, Esq., Bendit Weinstock
  • Kevin H. Marino, Esq., Marino,Tortorella & Boyle, PC.
  • Kristin D. Sostowski, Esq., Gibbons PC

Time: 8:45-10 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: What I Wish I Knew

A panel will discuss their experiences in the legal world and what they have learned in their careers, including from early successes as well as “teachable moments.” The panelists will discuss practical issues which are not taught in law school such as networking, climbing the career ladder, managing billable hours, navigating financial matters, asking for help, and engaging with your adversaries.

Moderator:

Speakers:

  • Christopher Porrino, Partner; Chair, Litigation Department, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Justice John J. Hoffman, NJ Supreme Court
  • Bria Beaufort, Esq., Gibbons PC.
  • Yvette Cave, Esq., Archer & Greiner
  • Marc A. Rollo, Esq., Chair, Environmental Law Department , Archer & Greiner PC

Time: 8:45-10 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Got Referrals? The Importance of Networking for Business Development and the Evolution of the Practice

The business of the profession has changed. More and more new cases come from other lawyers and the relationships developed throughout your life, bar association involvement and carer. Join this conversation about the best – and ethical – practices to developing relationships and nurturing referral networks. Learn what you need to know about business development from case intake; the unique vetting process involved when cases come in from your network; substituting in a new case; and managing client expectations, especially when multiple generations are in play. The discussion will also look at what young lawyers do not compared to how it used to be done, what strategies everyone can implement and the obstacles in the road.

Moderator:

  • Frederick W. Alworth, Esq., Gibbons PC

Speakers:

  • Alessandra M. Moore, Associate, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Domenick Carmagnola, Esq., Past President, New Jersey State Bar Association, Carmagnola & Ritardi, LLC
  • Thomas P. Scrivo, Esq., O'Toole Scrivo LLC
  • Remi L. Spencer, Esq., Pashman Stein Walder Hayden, PC.

Time: 10:30-11:45 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Public Corruption Investigations and Prosecutions

Moderator:

  • Leo J. Hurley, Esq., Connell Foley LLP

Speakers:

  • Matthew Boxer, Partner; Chair, White Collar Defense; Chair, Corporate Investigations & Integrity, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Michael Robertson, Esq., O'Toole Scrivo LLC
  • Ricardo Solano, Jr., Esq., Gibbons PC
  • Robert C. Scrivo, Esq., Former AUSA, Mandelbaum Barrett PC

Time: 10:30-11:45 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Exploring In-House Counsel as a Career Path—Insights from Lawyers on the Inside

This bar association panel discussion features seasoned in-house counsel from a variety of industries sharing their career journeys and day-to-day experiences. The panelists will provide insights into how they transitioned into in-house roles, whether from law firms, government positions, or other professional backgrounds. They will offer practical advice for those considering this career path. Attendees will learn about the diverse responsibilities that in-house counsel handle daily, from managing legal risks and advising business leaders to overseeing compliance and litigation. The panelists will also touch upon the strategic and collaborative nature of their roles and how they contribute to the success of their organizations. The speakers will share what they find most rewarding about being in-house counsel, such as the opportunity to work closely with business teams, engage in problem-solving, oversee complex litigation, and make a tangible impact on their companies’ goals. This session is ideal for legal professionals at any stage of their career who are curious about the challenges and rewards of working as in-house counsel.

Moderator:

Speakers:

  • Michelle S. Gasparian, Esq., Director, Global Investigations, Merck
  • Natalya G. Johnson, Esq., Senior Counsel, Johnson & Johnson
  • Rachel Pryor, General Counsel, Jefferson Health
  • Sophie E. Reiter, Senior Litigation Counsel, Compass Real Estate
  • Simone Silva-Arrindell, Director, Senior Legal Counsel, Samsung

Time: 10:30-11:45 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: How Appealing: Tricks of the Trade in Appellate Practice

Join esteemed appellate jurists and practitioners as they present a seminar in which they highlight the best practices for representing your clients on appeal.

Moderator:

Speakers:

  • Hon. Patty Shwartz (3rd. Cir.), US Courts of Appeals for the Third Circuit
  • Hon. Jack M. Sabatino, P.J.A.D, Hughes Justice Complex
  • Hon. Greta A. Gooden Brown, J.A.D., Superior Court of New Jesry
  • Lawrence S. Lustberg, Esq., Co-Chair, White Collar & Investigations Group, Gibbons PC
  • Michael L. Zuckerman, Esq., Office of Attorney General

Time: 10:30-11:45 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Meeting the Need: The Business Case for Expanding Your Firm’s Pro Bono Practice

The unprecedented need for pro bono services in New Jersey; How to expand build a pro bono practice within your firm; The business benefits for having a dedicated pro bono practice within your firm; and How working on pro bono cases can enhance skill-building, especially for newer attorneys.

Moderator:

  • Michelle Pallak, Esq., McCarter & English LLP

Speakers:

  • Markiana J. Julceus, Counsel, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Yvette Donaldson-Brown, Esq., Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC
  • CJ Griffin, Esq., Pashman Stein Walder Hayden, PC
  • Mary Frances Palisano, Esq., Gibbons PC
  • Akil Roper, Esq., Legal Services of New Jersey

Time: 10:30-11:45 a.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Managing Partners Roundtable: What's Keeping Law Firm Leaders Awake at Night

The managing partners of New Jersey law firms of differing sizes will come together to discuss the issues facing the profession and what practices all firms can use to improve business.

Moderator:

  • Peter J. Torcicollo, Esq., Gibbons PC

Speakers:

  • Christopher Porrino, Partner; Chair, Litigation Department, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Marie L. Mathews, Esq., Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC
  • Marc A. Rollo, Esq., Chair, Environmental Law Department, Archer & Greiner PC
  • Thomas P. Scrivo, Esq., O'Toole Scrivo LLC

Time: 1:15-2:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: The Nuanced Relationship Between In-House Counsel and Their Law Firms

Effectively partnering with outside counsel is critical to a successful in-house career in all industries. This panel (pairs of in-house counsel and their go-to outside counsel) will share the important things in-house counsel should know in building and navigating their relationships with outside counsel. This panel will also substantively explore this relationship in the context of various industries and practice areas, including pharmaceutical patent litigation under the Hatch-Waxman Act, employment law, and real estate. Panelists will also discuss practical, cost-effective approaches to working with local counsel to improve efficiency and outcomes for companies.

Moderators:

  • Nicole G. McDonough, Esq., Sills Cummis & Gross PC.
  • Eric Wong, Esq., Greeberg Traurig, LLP

Speakers:

  • Jason S. Gould, Partner, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Aziz Burgy, Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP
  • Gina R. Gencarelli, Endo
  • David Jay, Esq., Greenberg Traurig
  • Tedd Kochman, Esq., Littler Mendelson, PC.
  • Sara F. Merin, Assistant General Counsel, Bayer U.S. LLC
  • Paige Nestel, Esq., PSEG
  • Jamie D. Zogby, Anywhere Real Estate Inc.

Time: 1:15-2:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Smart on Crime NJ: Justice Reform and Public Safety in 2025 and Beyond

New Jersey has long been a national leader in smart and data-driven justice reform that protects the public, our Constitutional rights, and ensures fairness. New Jersey is considering changes that affect attorneys, including pretrial, sentencing, mandatory minimums, and parole reform. Much of this work has been led by the New Jersey Criminal Sentencing and Disposition Commission, with input from law enforcement leaders, and national and state advocates. Join a panel of experts to discuss the specific pending justice reform initiatives, and what is possible in 2025.

Moderator/Speaker:

  • Timothy F. McGoughran, Esq., Law Office of Timothy F. McGoughran LLC

Speakers:

  • Christopher Porrino, Partner; Chair, Litigation Department, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Hon. Michael J. Blee, Administrative Director Designate
  • John Koufos, Arnold Ventures, LLC
  • William E. Reynolds, Esq., Atlantic County, Prosecutor, Atlantic County, Prosecutor's Office
  • Jennifer N. Sellitti, Esq., Office of the Public Defender
  • Senator Michael L. Testa, Jr., Esq., Testa Heck Testa & White, P.A.

Time: 3:15-4:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Defending Against PFAS Liability Claims

In this presentation, we examine the current state of PFAS litigation, including a discussion of the potential impact of developing federal and state PFAS regulation on the volume and risk of litigation. We also examine notable recent litigation and novel defenses being used. And we offer the best practices for counsel and their clients to mitigate the risk of PFAS claims and defense strategies. And go into the critical issues surrounding PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). Education on (1) Actionable Strategies: Equip yourself with practical approaches to managing PFAS contamination in your community or projects; and (2) In-Depth Knowledge: Build a solid understanding of the regulatory landscape and technical challenges associated with PFAS.

Moderator:

Speakers:

  • Kegan A. Brown, Partner, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Caryn Barnes, Langan Engineering & Environmantal Serv.
  • Dawn M. Monsen Lamparello, Esq., K&L Gates LLP

Time: 3:15-4:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: General Counsel Roundtable

Join general counsel from some of New Jersey’s most prominent law firms and NJ ethics counsel. Topics will include a robust discussion of issues unique to representing law firms.

Moderator:

  • James J. DiGiulio, Esq., O'Toole Scrivo

Speakers:

  • Sarah Scott, Associate General Counsel, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Ronald Israel, Esq., Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC
  • Joshua S. Levy, Esq., Gibbons PC
  • Rebecca L. Rakoski, Esq., XPAN Law Partners LLP

Time: 3:15-4:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Changes in Employment Law Updates: Administration’s ‘Shock and Awe’ Approach meets the Rule of Law

This panel, featuring Lowenstein partner Craig Dashiell, will provide the latest updates on federal government efforts to redefine the structure of the Federal Civil Service, enhanced immigration enforcement in the workplace, changes to wage and hours regulations, the impact on the National Labor Relations Act and its governing Board and shifting the role of the EEOC and attempting to roll back DEI. Questions will include whether the Presidential Administration’s civil service changes violate the First Amendment, whether the immigration crackdown can survive due process challenges, and whether changes to the administration of employment and anti-discrimination laws will survive challenges.

Speakers:

  • Craig Dashiell, Partner, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Leonard V. Jones, Esq., Jackson Lewis PC - Berkeley Heights
  • John Malchow, Simon Law Group
  • Scott R. Malyk, Esq., Meyner and Landis
  • Beth P. Zoller, KSBranigan Law PC.

Time: 3:45-4:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Litigation 101

The purpose of this seminar will provide a complete, big-picture litigation overview for law clerks, young lawyers, and new associate. Other Related Tracks: Civil Litigation

Moderator:

  • Chelsea Turiano, Esq., Day Pitney LLP

Speakers:

  • Mikayla R. Berliner, Associate, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Hon. Rukhsanah L. Singh, U.S.M.J.
  • Yvette Donaldson-Brown, Esq., Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC
  • Christopher L. Jackson, Esq., Goldberg Segalla
  • Paul R. Marino, Esq., Day Pitney LLP
  • Gigio K. Ninan, Esq., Shankar Ninan & Co., LLP
  • Travis Nunziato, Esq., Laddey Clark & Ryan LLP

Time: 3:15-4:45 p.m. ET

Thursday, May 15, 2025
Panel: Navigating New Jersey's Legislative Landscape: Key Updates for Counsel and Corporate Leaders

Stay informed and strategically prepared by joining our essential panel discussion focused on the latest legislative updates affecting corporate counsel and business leaders in New Jersey. This session will cover recent changes in state laws, regulations, and policies that impact business operations, compliance, and risk management. Key topics will include: Overview of Recent Legislation: A detailed examination of newly enacted laws in New Jersey that affect corporate governance, employment practices, environmental regulations, and data privacy. Impact on Business Compliance: Understand the implications of legislative changes on corporate compliance programs and best practices for adapting to new legal requirements. Risk Management Strategies: Explore how to identify and mitigate potential legal risks arising from recent legislative developments. Case Studies and Real-World Applications: Learn from case studies that illustrate how companies have successfully navigated legislative changes and adapted their strategies. Future Legislative Trends: Insights into anticipated legislative initiatives and their potential impact on business operations in New Jersey. This panel will feature seasoned legal practitioners, legislators, and business leaders who will provide crucial insights and foster meaningful discussions. Equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions and lead your organization through the evolving legislative landscape in New Jersey.

Moderator:

  • Courtney A. Johnson, Esq., Gibbons PC

Speakers:

  • Parimal Garg, Partner, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
  • Sharon A. Balsamo, Esq., Assistant Executive Director and General Counsel, New Jersey State Bar Association
  • Christopher J. Guiton, Esq., Johnson & Johnson
  • Jayne J. Johnson, Esq., Director of Equity, Office of the Governor
  • Kevin Logan, Chief Counsel, New Jersey General Assembly
  • Chad Watson, PSEG

Time: 3:15-4:45 p.m. ET

Friday, May 16, 2025
Panel: Reading the Constitution – A Conversation with Retired Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer

The May 16 program, moderated by retired state Supreme Court Justice Barry T. Albin, will center on themes in Justice Stephen Breyer’s latest book “Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism.” Together, these two titans of jurisprudence will dissect the pragmatic approach to interpretating the Constitution and the competing judicial philosophy – textualism – which guides decisions from the current court.?

Moderator:

Speaker:

  • Justice Stephen Breyer, (Ret.), Former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States

Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m. ET

Conference Location: Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa, 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Event details