Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP Announces New Managing Partner
CONTACT:
Andrea Vernetti
Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP
510-419-2217
(Oakland, CA) - Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP (FAB), one of Northern California's longest-standing multi-practice law firms, today announced the appointment of Michael S. Ward as its new Managing Partner. The appointment became effective on January 1, 2009. Mr. Ward succeeds Barry H. Epstein who served for four and a half years as Managing Partner, assuming the role in July 2004. Mr. Epstein has returned full-time to his position as Partner and Chair of the Land Use, Environment and Natural Resources Practice Group. Mr. Epstein will also continue to participate in the management of the firm as a member of its Executive Committee.
Mr. Ward will focus on providing guidance regarding the management of the firm and its strategic direction. He will continue to practice employment law, representing management-side clients in employment litigation, employer-employee relations, hiring, discipline and termination, wage and hour issues and severance plan administration.
"Under Barry's leadership the firm has flourished by providing its clients with the highest level of legal expertise and maximum value," said Mr. Ward. "I fully intend to help the firm keep the commitment it has made to clients."
"The sound judgment Michael has demonstrated in his law practice, coupled with the high level of integrity that has become his hallmark, make him an excellent candidate for Managing Partner," said Barry Epstein.
A 14-year veteran of FAB, Mr. Ward joined the firm from the University of California at Berkeley, Boalt Hall School of Law. He completed his undergraduate studies at Stanford University. He is a member of State Bar of California, Section on Employment and Labor and a member of the National Association of College and University Attorneys. A frequent lecturer on employment law topics, Mr. Ward has presented seminars before hundreds of human resources executives and practitioners.
Mr. Ward resides in El Cerrito, CA, with his wife Olivia Lang and their three daughters.
About Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP
Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley is a multi-practice law firm providing legal solutions for clients throughout Northern California and nationally. Founded in 1883, the firm celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2008. Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP is consistently recognized by clients, peers and the media as a leader in its field. More information on the firm is available at www.fablaw.com.