Cozen O'Connor

Cozen O'Connor is characterized by its ‘expert subject matter knowledge on issues related to sex discrimination’. Academic institutions engage the higher education team to review their policies on sexual harassment and misconduct. Alongside its strengths in handling Title IX matters, the firm is adept at supporting research institutions with intellectual property law issues. Another area where the firm shines is employment, representing universities in a range of labor matters, including unionization and breach of contract. Alan M. Pittler and Mariah L. Passarelli jointly lead the team with Maureen P. Holland, who advises educational institutions on addressing discrimination and sex- and gender-based harassment. Praised for being a ’strong advocate’, Leslie M. Gomez is known for designing institutional responses to misconduct that integrate complex federal and state regulations. On the employment front, Daniel V. Johns is a skilled litigator who advises universities on the full gamut of employment law issues. Gina Maisto is an expert on the intersection of trauma-informed internal processes at universities and the wider legal and regulatory framework. The practice also benefits from the expertise of Boulder-based IP litigator Curtis Vock and Chicago-based employment specialist Anna Wermuth. Sandi F. Dublin joined from Ogletree Deakins in June 2024. All lawyers are based in Philadelphia unless otherwise mentioned.