In a nod to the daunting economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Genova Burns announced Tuesday morning that it will integrate the boutique bankruptcy law firm Wasserman, Jurista & Stolz, effective Jan. 1.
The expansion means Genova Burns will grow both in its selective practice areas and its geographical footprint, as it will add an office in Basking Ridge at 110 Allen Road. The location will be the sixth in the region for the firm.
The firm will continue to operate under the name Genova Burns LLC.
Angelo Genova, the chairman and managing partner of Genova Burns, said WJS brings an expertise that is perfect for the times.
“WJS is a household name among the bankruptcy bar and bench, and we are so very fortunate that Dan Stolz and his team have chosen to build upon that reputation by making Genova Burns their new home,” Genova said. “I don’t think there is a more important time than now for a law firm to possess the skill sets that the WJS bankruptcy team brings to our clients as we face the daunting economic consequences of the current public health crisis.”
Stolz, the managing partner at Wasserman, Jurista & Stolz, said he also sees the integration of the two firms as the right fit at the right time.
“WJS will now have the platform to meet our own growth objectives, expand our geographical footprint and service a growing institutional client base in need of bankruptcy law and restructuring services,” he said.
Stolz will join Genova Burns as a partner and chair the Bankruptcy and Restructuring practice, while at the same time he assumes the leadership role of communications director for the Bankruptcy section of the Association of the Federal Bankruptcy Bar.
Steven Jurista will join as “of counsel”; Scott Revers and Don Clarke will join as “counsel.”
The Genova Burns attorney complement grows to 75 attorneys with the expansion. But both Genova and Stolz said the fit was about more than just adding lawyers.
“We are excited to start 2021 by welcoming this talented and respected group of professionals to our firm,” Genova said. “Wasserman, Jurista & Stolz brings a tradition of excellence which matches our own commitment to the highest quality in legal services.”
Stolz said his group is eager to join the team.
“Based on my experience with Genova Burns for decades, the compatibility of our firm cultures and GB’s evident professional success, we believe Genova provides an ideal opportunity and an environment for successful synergies for the mutual benefit of our clients,” he said. “I am confident we can do all of this and more by joining Genova Burns.”