Brian Ballay

Robert W. Rachal is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Employment Law - Management and Litigation - ERISA. Robert W., who practices law in New Orleans, Louisiana, has been recognized since 2016. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Robert W. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

David Israel is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation, Corporate Compliance Law and Employment Law - Management. David, who practices law in Metairie, Louisiana, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which David is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Stephen R. Klaffky focuses his practice in the areas of commercial litigation, environmental litigation, insurance coverage and bad faith, and securities litigation and regulation. Stephen has represented financial institutions, investors, manufacturers, and employers through trial and on appeal. As lead counsel, he has successfully defended clients against allegations involving fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, lender liability, employment discrimination, and wrongful termination. He has also...

Nathan G. Huntwork is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Energy Regulatory Law and Utilities Law. Nathan G., who practices law in New Orleans, Louisiana, has been recognized since 2022. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Nathan G. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Edward B. Poitevent II is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Energy Law, Energy Regulatory Law, Mining Law and Oil and Gas Law. Edward B., who practices law in New Orleans, Louisiana, has been recognized since 2007. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Edward B. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Marty McLeod practices in the area of marine and energy and business litigation law. He represents U.S. and foreign vessel owners as well as offshore energy companies in a variety of marine and energy matters, including regulatory issues, business counseling, bankruptcy, and property, loss of use, pollution and commercial disputes. Marty serves as the practice coordinator of Phelps Dunbar's New Orleans admiralty group and is a current member of the firm's Operations Committee. Prior to enteri...

State and federal court litigator, trial advocate, and appellate advisor, Chuck Talley has more than four decades of experience representing clients in complex disputes. Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, Chuck practices with Kean Miller and focuses on resolving matters involving Admiralty and Maritime Law, Oil and Gas Law, insurance coverage, and general business litigation. His work includes handling cases at every stage of litigation, from initial strategy and motion practice through trial a...

Ault's practice is focused on bankruptcy, restructuring and commercial litigation. He represents clients in commercial contract disputes, defense of lien rights, acquisitions and financial litigation matters.

Bret LeBreton is a partner in the Maritime Practice Group and a member of the insurance coverage team. He has practiced in all facets of maritime, energy, and marine and non-marine insurance law. Bret has represented assureds, underwriters, and other industry participants in a broad range of disputes involving hull, cargo, builder's risk, P&I, MEL, CGL, control of well, and excess and umbrella policies. He has given opinions regarding coverage, prepared reservations of rights, and advised...

Patrick Talley practices primarily in the area of commercial litigation, with a focus on transportation, energy and environmental law. Mr. Talley has worked extensively within the railroad industry, and is well-known both regionally and nationwide in that area. He has successfully represented railroads, including three Class I and two Short Line railroads, in matters involving cargo and freight claims, derailments, crossing litigation, and employee personal injury and death (F.E.L.A.). He als...