Connell Foley LLP is proud to announce the firm's rankings in the 2020 Chambers USA Guide, one of the most respected rankings of lawyers and law firms in the country.
This year, Connell Foley earned rankings in three practice areas: Construction, Insurance and Real Estate. We are also extremely pleased to congratulate seven partners for being recognized in the 2020 Chambers Guide: Agnes Antonian (Environmental), Kevin Coakley (Real Estate), Thomas Cosma (Construction), Mark Fleder (Construction), Michael McBride (Construction), Jonathan McHenry (Insurance) and Peter Smith (Construction).
Connell Foley's 2020 Chambers USA rankings are as follows:
Construction (Band 1). Of note, this is the first year that Chambers USA has a New Jersey ranking table for Construction. In addition to achieving a Band 1 ranking, the firm has more attorneys ranked for Construction than any other firm. According to Chambers, Connell Foley is known as a “[l]eading construction firm with vast experience assisting governmental entities, owners, developers and contractors with contract negotiation and litigation. Regularly handles claims involving delay, defective design and construction issues as well as bidding disputes and lien filings.” Clients are noted as saying that "the team's combined years of experience and construction expertise is exceptional, plus they are genuinely nice people and good to work with."
Insurance (Band 2). Chambers describes Connell Foley’s Insurance Group as a “[s]killful outfit acting on behalf of insurers in coverage and subrogation disputes, regularly selected to represent clients in many large and high-profile cases. Boasts an impressive number of civil trial attorneys in its ranks. Possesses experience covering environmental insurance litigation, mass and toxic torts, and product liability matters.” Of the team, clients are quoted as saying “They go above and beyond, provide amazing client service and know how to deal with contentious environments" and that “the firm is a go-to for ‘heavy-duty, in-the-trenches litigation - it's a well-oiled machine.’"
Real Estate (Band 3). As noted by Chambers, Connell Foley's real estate group “[o]ffers a wide range of real estate services, with expertise in transactional, development and financing matters. Frequently involved in high-profile residential and commercial projects throughout the state. Also has notable expertise in land use and related environmental concerns.” Chambers also quotes clients as saying ‘They're excellent. They're responsive, skilled and always able to get good results.’ And “[f]ellow practitioners report the team is ‘well respected for handling meaningful projects.’"
Agnes Antonian – Environment (Band 3). Chambers notes that clients find Agnes’ “‘solid technical and scientific background to be invaluable; she is very sharp when it comes to technical issues and is a persuasive advocate.’ She is adept at negotiating with government agencies as well as defending companies in contamination and CERCLA claims.”
Kevin Coakley – Real Estate (Band 2). According to Chambers, “[c]lients regard Kevin Coakley as a "very experienced attorney with a substantial litigation background, enabling him to plan strategies to obtain land use approvals." He regularly advises development companies on financial and regulatory negotiations, as well as disputes against municipalities."
Thomas Cosma – Construction (Band 2). The Chambers Guide reports that Tom “represents owners, contractors and architects in significant contract negotiation and litigation. Sources highlight him for being ‘a really smart, detail-oriented lawyer.’"
Mark Fleder – Construction (Band 1). Chambers notes Mark “is considered ‘one of the top construction lawyers in New Jersey.’ He is valued for his ability to handle major construction projects and litigation on behalf of public owners and general contractors. Clients describe him as ‘very calm’ and ‘very, very effective.’”
Michael McBride – Construction (Band 1). According to Chambers, Mike “is highly regarded for his deep expertise advising owners and developers on major construction projects and disputes. ‘He is focused, decisive, very responsive and driven to help us succeed,’ reports a client, adding: ‘His deep knowledge of construction law is a great resource.’"
Jonathan McHenry – Insurance (Band 3). The Chambers Guide notes “The ‘fabulous,’ Jonathan McHenry is described as ‘intellectually savvy, creative and knowledgeable,’ by interviewees. He handles a diverse array of coverage disputes, including those involving environmental damage, asbestos, product defects and sexual abuse claims.”
Peter Smith – Construction (Band 2). Chambers quotes clients as saying Peter is “‘a strong construction attorney’ and ‘a very good lawyer.’ He is deeply experienced in the litigation and arbitration of construction disputes and is recognized for his work as an arbitrator.”
For more information about the Chambers USA Guide or to search the 2020 rankings, please visit the Chambers website. For details on Chambers’ research process, please read their ranking methodology.