Taylor Dowd

Edward L. Wender is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Real Estate Law. Edward L., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2010. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Edward L. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Jeff Gilmore chairs Akerman’s Construction Practice, a team dedicated to providing practical counsel on the legal aspects of major construction initiatives and infrastructure projects around the world. Jeff is sought after for his domestic and international experience in many segments of the construction industry on both private and public projects. He is repeatedly ranked by The Legal 500 and Chambers USA, which describes him as “extremely talented and astute at strategy.” ...

David D. Rines is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Communications Law. David D., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which David D. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Rick Fischer’s practice focuses on retail financial services, privacy, and data security. For over 40 years, he has advised banks, retailers, insurers, technology and other companies throughout the United States on the full range of financial services and payment system issues. His practice has a special emphasis on privacy, data security, e-commerce, technology, and financial services joint ventures, as well as compliance and enforcement matters involving the Consumer Financial Protect...

Lynette Kleiza is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Family Law. Lynette, who practices law in Bethesda, Maryland, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Lynette is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Frank J. Pergolizzi is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Transportation Law. Frank J., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Frank J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Keri McWilliams is a co-leader of the Franchise & Distribution team. She represents start-ups and mid-size companies across numerous industries, including restaurants, retailers, fitness centers, health concepts, and luxury brands, in all aspects of their corporate relationships. Keri is also a member of the Health and Wellness initiative, and the Food, Beverage and Agribusiness team. What do you focus on? Franchising I represent franchise systems ranging from 3 units to more than 1000 un...

Christy Tinnes is involved in all aspects of health and welfare plans, including the Affordable Care Act, ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). She represents large employers designing health plans as well as insurers designing new products. She frequently advises both employers and service providers on the legal requirements for wellness programs, including HIPAA, ADA, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. She also has significant experience working...

Saul Mezei is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Tax Law. Saul, who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Saul is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

David Schertler is widely recognized as one of the top white–collar criminal defense attorneys in the Washington area and nationwide. He founded Schertler & Onorato, LLP, in 1996 and has built the firm’s reputation as a premier litigation boutique through his broad experience with criminal and civil investigative and trial matters and the results that he has achieved for his clients. Mr. Schertler is known for his skilled and tenacious representation of individuals and entitie...