Continuing a trajectory of rapid strategic growth, Connell Foley LLP announced Tuesday the launch of a dedicated Corporate Restructuring & Bankruptcy practice. The firm has bolstered its ranks with five veteran partners from FBT Gibbons and established a new physical footprint in the nation’s corporate litigation hub: Wilmington, Delaware.
The new practice group is spearheaded by Co-Chairs Robert Malone and Brett Theisen. Joining them are partners Katharina Earle, Dale Barney and Mark Conlan. Collectively, the team brings over a century of experience navigating high-stakes reorganizations and insolvency litigation.
The opening of the Wilmington office marks a significant milestone for the Mid-Atlantic firm. By establishing a local presence, Connell Foley gains direct access to the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware and the Delaware Court of Chancery—venues where many of the world’s most complex corporate disputes are resolved.
Earle will lead the Wilmington location, providing “on-the-ground” support for clients involved in Chapter 11 and Chapter 7 proceedings.
“Today’s announcement adds significant expertise to our firm and helps set the stage for what’s next—for both the firm and for our clients,” Timothy Corriston, managing partner of Connell Foley said.
The incoming partners bring a wealth of decorated experience to the firm:
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Robert Malone (co-chair): Based in New Jersey with 40+ years of experience. A Chambers USA Band 1 attorney, Malone has represented creditors’ committees, debtors, and financial institutions in massive restructuring matters.
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Brett Theisen (co-chair): Based in New York and a recipient of the American Bankruptcy Institute’s “40 Under Forty” honor. Theisen specializes in complex liquidations and high-stakes litigation involving fiduciary duties and shareholder disputes.
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Katharina Earle: A specialist in international insolvency law, Earle will bridge the firm’s New Jersey and New York roots with the new Delaware operations.
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Dale Barney: A seasoned litigator focusing on debtor-creditor relations and appellate work within the bankruptcy sphere.
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Mark Conlan: Known for his deep expertise in avoidance actions, Conlan previously led a team managing over 850 actions in a multi-billion-dollar bankruptcy case.
