RUDMAN WINCHELL - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Attorney at Law
- Partner
- President of the Board of Directors of the Maine Discovery Museum
Anne-Marie L. Storey, Attorney at Law, practices employment law, including general advising of employers, litigation, administrative actions, training, and workers' compensation. Anne-Marie is the Chair of the Firm's Employment Practice Group. She has been recognized by Best Lawyers for five consecutive years in the practice areas of Employment and Workers' Compensation.
Anne-Marie is a frequent speaker to human resource professionals and other groups on employment-related topics. She has spoken at both the Northern New England Law Publishers Comp Summit, focusing on workers' compensation in Maine, and the Maine HR Convention, Maine's largest human resources convention, for many years. She is also a repeat presenter for the Maine State Bar Association's Bridging the Gap and Legal Year in Review programs.
Anne-Marie serves as a President of the Board of Directors of the Maine Discovery Museum. She is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Bangor YMCA, The Grand Theatre in Ellsworth, and the Eastern Area Agency on Aging. She has received the Volunteer of the Year award from the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce. She also participates in the local Meals-on-Wheels weekly delivery program.
Anne-Marie graduated cum laude from Vermont Law School, where she was a notes editor for the Vermont Law Review. She is a past president of the Maine State Bar Association and a former member of the Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar Professional Ethics Commission. Anne-Marie has received a Notable rating from Martindale and is recognized as a Best Lawyer in America.
Anne-Marie was born in New York City but grew up primarily in Virginia. She is a graduate of Middlebury College. After college, she served as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in Thailand. She lives in Winterport with her husband, John Hamer, daughter, Zoey, and St. Bernard, Josie.
Anthony D. Pellegrini is a highly accomplished attorney and a partner at Rudman Winchell, specializing in Estate Planning, Intellectual Property (including Patent and Trademark Law, Copyright, and Trade Secrets), Immigration, and Contracts. With over three decades of legal experience, Anthony is committed to providing exceptional legal counsel and tailored solutions to clients in Maine.
Anthony brings extensive expertise to his practice areas. He began his legal journey after graduating from Boston University School of Law in 1994. Since joining Rudman Winchell in 2000, Anthony has excelled in various legal domains, constantly expanding his repertoire. His diverse expertise has garnered recognition and numerous notable achievements. Anthony has been named "Best Copyright Lawyer" by Best Lawyers™ for the past several years. He was written up in Maine Lawyer's Review after resolving a complex dispute for clients who had unknowingly built a house on disputed land, preserving both their property and their peace of mind. Anthony has successfully represented clients in a wide range of cases, including a significant trademark cancellation proceeding before the U.S. Trademark Trial and Appeals Board, an antitrust suit against Amazon, and a copyright infringement settlement protecting a client's literary rights.
Recognizing the importance of understanding his clients' unique needs and goals, Anthony adopts a client-centric approach. He embraces a learning stance with his clients, recognizing that they are valuable teachers who provide essential insights into their unique needs and goals. Through in-depth interviews and thorough information gathering, he forges a strong attorney-client relationship. Anthony is dedicated to guiding his clients towards the best possible outcomes by offering advice, direction, and tailored legal solutions. He ensures that these solutions are effective and efficient, even if only minimal legal intervention is necessary.
Anthony's educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College, a Master of Engineering from Cornell University, and a Juris Doctor degree from Boston University School of Law. He is admitted to practice law by the Maine Bar, U.S. Patent Bar, U.S. District Court of Maine, U.S. District Court of Massachusetts, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit.
As an active member of the Penobscot County Bar and the Maine Bar, Anthony remains at the forefront of legal developments. He also participates in the John Waldo Ballou Inn of Court, fostering professional growth and collaboration. He is a frequent volunteer adjudicator with the Maine MedMal Screening Panel. Outside of his legal practice, Anthony serves on the board of the Penobscot Theatre Company and John Bapst Memorial High School, demonstrating his commitment to the community.
Known for his warmth, attentiveness, and sense of humor, Anthony puts his clients at ease while providing top-notch legal representation. He believes in creating a positive and enjoyable experience for his clients, offering guidance and on occasion a touch of levity. Outside the office, Anthony enjoys lobstering, biking, skiing, and spending time with his family as well as with his beloved office dog, Sadie.
If you are seeking a dedicated and accomplished attorney who will prioritize your needs and deliver tailored legal solutions, contact Anthony D. Pellegrini at Rudman Winchell. Schedule a consultation today and experience firsthand the outstanding representation and personalized attention that Anthony provides to every client.
Brent's personal life includes his late wife, Patricia Singer, fondly known as Beautiful Sam. Their meeting at the Samoset Resort in Rockport in 2002 led to a beautiful marriage years later. Very sadly, Beautiful Sam passed away in March 2023. She was an accomplished skydiver, contributing to one of the largest recreational skydiving schools in the world in Elsinore, California.
Caitlyn S. Smith is in the litigation practice group of Rudman Winchell. She concentrates on Family and Criminal Law. Caitlyn is an accomplished, aggressive litigator with an unfailing dedication to her clients. She establishes strong, lasting client relationships.
By committing herself to understanding each client's specific needs, she delivers services tailored to meet those needs. Caitlyn's passion is assisting people through some of the most difficult times in their lives by providing strong advocacy and compassionate advice.
Caitlyn is a rostered Guardian ad litem. She takes appointments as a GAL in various courts throughout the State of Maine. Caitlyn is also a board member of the Penobscot County Bar Association, a member of the Maine Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, John Waldo Ballou Inn of Court, and the Maine State Bar Association.
Caitlyn is a native of Maine. She graduated from Bangor High School in 2007. She received her B.A. in English, with a minor in Political Science and History, cum laude, from Saint Joseph's College of Maine in 2011. Caitlyn then went to law school in Rhode Island.
She graduated from Roger Williams University School of Law in 2014, where she received the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Juvenile Justice and Children and the Law. Caitlyn is admitted to practice before the State Courts of Maine and Massachusetts and the United States District Court for the District of Maine.
After graduating from Law School, Caitlyn served in AmeriCorps. She represented unaccompanied minors in immigration proceedings. Following AmeriCorps, she worked at the Committee for Public Counsel Services in Boston, Massachusetts, where she represented parents and children in child protection matters.
In November 2015, Caitlyn moved back to Maine and practiced family and criminal law at a firm in Bangor before joining Rudman Winchell in 2016. When Caitlyn is not in a courtroom, she enjoys running, skiing, and spending time with her husband, Mike, and golden retriever, Cooper.
Job Titles:
- Business Development Manager
Cynthia M. Mehnert has practiced real estate law for over 30 years in both Maine and Massachusetts. She represents clients in the sale and acquisition of commercial and residential property. She also assists with real estate transactions that arise as part of estate planning or probate administration. For many years, Cindy has truly enjoyed working with local land trusts and private landowners on land acquisition and preservation for conservation purposes.
Daniel Pulaski focuses his practice on Real Estate and transactional matters. Dan's researching skills help him navigate the issues that arise during a Real Estate transaction.
During Law School, Dan was sworn in as a Student Attorney with the Cumberland Legal Aid Clinic. This allowed him to practice law under a licensed attorney's supervision. As a student attorney, Dan worked closely with clients on a variety of civil and criminal legal matters. Additionally, Dan worked as a law clerk for Liberty Mutual where he performed research for a range of complicated issues throughout several different states and where he prepared a variety of legal documents.
At the University of Maine School of Law, Dan also served as a research editor for the Ocean & Coastal Law Journal. He applies his experience working at the Cumberland Legal Aid Clinic, as a law clerk, and as research editor to navigate the many different challenges his clients face.
Before relocating to Bangor, Dan was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. He is excited to get to know and become a part of the Bangor community. In his spare time, Dan enjoys spending time outdoors and watching sports.
Deven Soondar has a passion for helping people and a commitment to providing his clients with the support they need during challenging times. As a valued member of our firm, Deven brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to his practice.
Deven's journey into the legal field began with a fascination for government and a desire to make a positive impact. During his senior year of high school, he took an Advanced Placement government class that sparked his interest in the workings of government. This curiosity led him to explore how he could help people and maximize his potential, eventually leading him to law school.
Deven completed his undergraduate education with a double major in political science and religious studies. While completing his Master's, he was a teaching assistant for religious studies, which honed his skills in listening and communicating with people from diverse backgrounds and taught him valuable writing and research skills. Deven's studies extended to exploring the intersections of religion with various aspects of life, such as politics, urban planning, food sovereignty, and environmentalism. The holistic approach to learning laid the foundation for his legal career and continues to drive him to refine his practice, both in mediation and by collaborating with all parties to achieve the best outcomes.
Deven earned his law degree from Franklin Pierce (UNH) School of Law, and has been admitted to the Maine State Bar. During his second year at UNH, he delved into the world of criminal defense, and this newfound interest led him to an internship with the Broward County Public Defender in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It was here that he gained his first practical exposure to the legal profession, working in the misdemeanor division and dealing with a wide variety of cases. Deven was also actively involved in clubs and organizations during law school, including the Environmental Law Club, the Sport Club, treasurer of the Student Bar Association, often holding leadership positions and organizing events.
Attorney Diane S. O'Connell joined the firm in August of 2022, bringing her legal knowledge and expertise from over 18 years of legal practice in Ellsworth, serving the Hancock County area. Diane continues to work in Ellsworth from Rudman Winchell's new branch office at 140 High Street.
joined the firm in August of 2022, bringing her legal knowledge and expertise from over 18 years of legal practice in Ellsworth, serving the Hancock County area. Diane continues to work in Ellsworth from Rudman Winchell's new branch office at 140 High Street.
Diane has developed a transactional practice with a focus on real estate related legal work, including family real estate succession planning, real estate development, residential waterfront acquisitions and dispositions, title insurance, lease agreements including solar farm leases, easements, including conservation easements and advising land trusts, municipal zoning, road associations, and commercial real estate transactions. In addition, Diane assists clients with estate planning, estate administration, business formations, buying and selling small businesses and advises municipal boards.
Born and raised on a sheep farm in the South Island of New Zealand, Diane spent several years travelling and working her way around the world, until she "discovered" Maine, and never left.
Diane graduated from Otago University in New Zealand with double degrees in Law and Accounting, and was admitted to the New Zealand Law Society in 1996, and the Maine Bar in 2003, and then made the move to Hancock County to join James Patterson in his legal practice in Ellsworth, and she has been building her legal skills and client relationships ever since, most recently as part of Lambert Coffin, P.A.
Diane loves Maine, and enjoys all the wonderful things Maine has to offer, and she is eager to assist others who live here or who are moving to Maine, with all their transactional legal needs. Diane and her husband, Steve live in Orland, have two children, Hayden and Darra, a dog Roxy, and a very loud parakeet Athena. Diane and her family enjoy sailing, hiking (especially in the Great Pond Mountain Trust wildlands in Orland), and snowboarding, a new sport they took up to make the most of Maine winters.
Edmond J. Bearor served as the managing partner of Rudman Winchell from 2010 to 2019. His practice includes municipal and administrative law, real estate transactions, development, and litigation. Since 2007, Ed has been recognized as a Best Lawyer, including being honored as the Best Lawyer of the Year for Zoning and Land Use Law in 2012 and 2016. He has also achieved a Distinguished rating by Martindale and is recognized by SuperLawyers.
Job Titles:
- Attorney at Law
- Senior Counsel
F. David Walker, Attorney at Law, works predominately in the litigation section at Rudman Winchell. He focuses his practice on catastrophic personal injury defense, medical liability, product liability, personal injury, and commercial litigation. David has acted as lead counsel in a wide variety of lawsuits in both state and federal court.
David attends to all aspects of litigation, from filing the initial complaint or answer to making closing arguments in front of a jury. In addition to his trial experience, he has been an effective advocate before the Maine Supreme Judicial Court. He has a solid record of accomplishment for obtaining favorable results.
David also practices OSHA law. He has experience in defending businesses, large and small, from OSHA citations. After successfully completing an extended course of study, David is certified by OSHA, focusing on both general and construction industry OSHA regulations. In addition to guiding clients through the OSHA inspection process, David provides legal advice to assist clients in complying with all workplace safety regulations and standards.
David was born in Bethesda, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C. He grew up on Navy bases around the world. He graduated from the University of Alaska in Anchorage in 2000 with leadership and academic honors. Before attending law school, David spent time working for the State of Alaska Department of Transportation to generate GPS maps of south-central Alaska.
David obtained his J.D. from the University of Maine in 2003. He spent his first year after law school clerking for the Honorable Justice Paul L. Rudman of the Maine Supreme Court. In his free time, David serves as an officer in the Navy Reserves.
Hans S. Peterson has been consistently recognized as a top real estate lawyer by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America, and Super Lawyers. Hans provides a broad range of real estate, corporate, business, bankruptcy, and commercial advice to clients in all of Maine's business and non-profit sectors, including aerospace, construction, energy, healthcare, forest resources, commercial real estate development, technology, manufacturing, insurance, retail, and finance.
Hans is regularly involved in negotiating the purchase and sale of commercial real estate, commercial finance, the purchase and sale of businesses, commercial contracts, leasing transactions, and representing creditors and debtors in bankruptcy proceedings. He is a member of the Business Law Section of the American Bar Association.
Hans devotes a significant portion of his practice to complex commercial financing transactions, including SBA 504 loan closings, the formation, and structuring of real estate holding and leasing enterprises, advising and structuring tax-deferred, like-kind exchanges for real estate, and the creation and structure of business enterprises and partnerships.
Hans S. Peterson is consistently recognized as an up-and-coming real estate lawyer by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers in America. In 2017, Hans was recognized by Super Lawyers.
Job Titles:
- Attorney at Law
- Senior Counsel
Jonathan P. Hunter, Attorney at Law, has served as a law clerk for the Maine Superior Court and the Honorable Warren M. Silver of the Maine Supreme Judicial Court. His practice at Rudman Winchell concentrates on litigation and appeals.
Jonathan grew up in Medford, Massachusetts. He received his bachelor's degree in history from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, graduating summa cum laude. Jonathan studied law at Suffolk University Law School, where he served as managing editor of the Suffolk University Law Review and graduated summa cum laude.
While in law school, Jonathan worked as a judicial intern for the Massachusetts Superior Court and as a student prosecutor through the Suffolk Prosecutors Clinical Program. He was the recipient of the Best Brief Award, Distinguished Oral Advocate Award, and the Jurisprudence Award in Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Securities Regulation, and Federal Income Tax.
Jonathan currently serves on the advisory committee on the Maine Rules of Appellate Procedure and the US District Court Local Rules Advisory Committee. Jonathan lives in Bangor with his wife, Jessica. They enjoy reading, following the New England Patriots and Boston Celtics, and spending time with their cats in their spare time.
Job Titles:
- Attorney at Law
- of Counsel
Joshua A. Tardy, Attorney at Law, practices with the Rudman Winchell Litigation Team. He works primarily in civil and criminal litigation, real estate, and counseling business clients. Josh began practicing law as an associate attorney at Rudman Winchell in 1993 before starting the practice of Mitchell, Tardy, and Jackson, which focuses on governmental affairs work.
Justin Bennett is a highly experienced attorney and Senior Counsel at Rudman Winchell, dedicated to delivering exceptional service and achieving optimal outcomes for his clients. With over 20 years of experience in the legal field, Justin brings a wealth of expertise and a client-centric approach to his practice.
Born and educated in England, Justin began his legal career working as a Solicitor for six years before relocating to the United States. His background spans a wide range of litigation, including family, criminal, and real estate cases. Over time, Justin transitioned to specialize in real estate, corporate transactions, governance advice for non-profit organizations, and representation of land trusts, where he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Throughout his career, Justin has garnered a proven track record of success. He has successfully argued numerous cases before the Maine Supreme Court, winning four out of five-a testament to his skillful advocacy and strategic thinking. Justin's dedication to pro bono work has also been recognized, earning him the Maine State Bar Association's award for the highest number of Pro Bono hours in Hancock County.
Driven by personal tragedy, Justin's commitment to understanding his clients' needs goes beyond the legal realm. He approaches each case with reflection, attentive listening, and an open mind, ensuring a deep understanding of his clients' unique circumstances. His pragmatic guidance and commitment to empowering his clients result in outcomes that surpass initial expectations. Additionally, Justin serves as a patron of the Oliver Bennett Charitable Trust in the UK, honoring his late brother's memory and making a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Justin's educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Business Law with honors from London Metropolitan University and the completion of the Law Society Finals program with high honors at Guildford College of Law. He was admitted as a Solicitor to the Law Society of England and Wales in 1994 and became a member of the Maine State Bar Association in 2002.
To stay up-to-date with legal developments and contribute to the legal community, Justin actively engages in numerous professional organizations. He is a member of the Maine Land Conservation Attorney Network as well as the real estate section of the Maine State Bar. Additionally, Justin serves as a Director of Friends of Acadia, where he supports and engages in projects to assist Acadia National Park. He is a former President of the Board of Directors of the Bay School in Blue Hill, Maine, and holds the position of Clerk at the Blue Hill Country Club.
Outside of the legal field, Justin is an avid outdoor enthusiast. Engaging in activities such as biking, hiking, and running, he finds solace, inspiration, and the discipline necessary to navigate complex legal challenges. Justin's dedication to endurance sports has cultivated the focus, determination, and strategic thinking that underpin his success as an attorney.
For personalized legal solutions and expert representation, contact us today to discuss your legal needs and benefit from Justin's extensive experience and client-focused approach. Justin Bennett is ready to guide you through your legal journey with skill, empathy, and unwavering dedication.
Attorney Kristi Trafton is a dedicated attorney who works closely with clients to understand their needs and goals. She confidently helps her clients navigate the various rules, regulations, and laws that come with a real estate transaction in order to obtain the best possible outcome. Kristi focuses her practice on Real Estate and Municipal law. Her attention to detail and strong research skills are invaluable to the clients she works with.
Kristy focuses her practice on estate and trust law, assisting individuals and families with estate planning, wealth transfers, trust and estate administration, guardianship and conservatorship proceedings, and other probate matters. For her work in Trusts and Estates, Kristy received recognition in the 2023 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America. She was also recognized in the 2022 and 2023 editions for her work in the field of Trusts and Estates Litigation.
Having been raised in a family business, Kristy is particularly passionate about helping small business owners plan for the future. She understands the unique challenges facing business owners, and she works with families and business owners in all stages of estate planning to protect and preserve the legacies they have created.
Kristy earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maine at Orono, and she graduated magna cum laude from the University of Maine School of Law. She is a current member of the Maine Advisory Committee on Probate Rules, she serves as the Member Representative for the John Waldo Ballou Inn of Court, and she is a member of the Board of Trustees for Maine Central Institute. From 2016-2022, she served two terms as a Select Board Member for her hometown of Burnham.
Kristy lives in Burnham with her husband, Patrick, and their dog, Ridley. In her free time, she is a competitive candlepin bowler and can be found traveling throughout New England and Canada to compete in leagues and tournaments year-round.
Mark Laverdiere, Esq. practices within the Corporate and Business Practices group. Mark is a talented transactional and finance attorney with years of experience representing countless banks and businesses in the greater Bangor community. He is known for bringing practical guidance and creative solutions to the most complex business issues.
Mark understands the challenges involved in forming, operating, selling, or winding down a successful business. He has conducted numerous multi-million dollar transactions for his clients over the years. Mark is ready to help you with your legal needs, from start-ups to mergers and acquisitions to sales and succession planning.
In recent years, Mark has also become well known for representing numerous Maine veterinarians to sell their practices. Mark also works extensively with real estate matters. He maintains an active civil litigation practice for real estate and corporate matters.
Job Titles:
- President, Starboard Leadership Consulting
Paul Brown focuses his practice at Rudman Winchell in the Transaction Practices section of the firm which includes corporate, finance, healthcare, real estate, and landlord-tenant law. Paul's vast knowledge and experience position him as a leader in complex business issues.
Paul has a substantial, varied transaction practice. He enjoys working with businesses, corporate and individual clients to assist with purchase and sale agreements, handling breach of contract matters, commercial loan transactions, farming, working with corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships.
Prior to joining Rudman Winchell, Paul practiced with a local firm. He focused on commercial and corporate transactions, business, and real estate matters. Previous to his legal career, Paul served for 15 years in the United States Navy as a Naval Flight Officer. He flew the F-14A Tomcat fighter aboard the USS Enterprise. Then, he served as an amphibious air operations planner.
Paul was admitted to the Maine State Bar in 1994. He is a member of the American Bar Association, the Maine State Bar, and the Business and Health Law Sections. Paul lives in Bangor with his wife. They enjoy visits from their adult sons. His interests include aviation history, hiking, kayaking, and canoeing.
Job Titles:
- Vice President, Starboard Leadership Consulting
Job Titles:
- Manager of Fiduciary Services
Robert C. Vanderpool is a Senior Associate at our firm, primarily specializing in Business & Corporate Law, with a keen focus on tax planning. Robert specializes in handling the tax-related aspects of diverse legal areas, offering clients comprehensive tax strategies. His expertise spans Business Reorganizations, Mergers and Acquisitions, Entity Formations, Succession Planning for Closely-Held Business Entities, Real Estate Transactions, Estate Planning & Wealth Preservation, and Municipal, Land Use & Environmental matters. Additionally, he is well-versed in Tax Controversy matters, effectively handling disputes with the IRS or Maine Revenue Services.
Robert earned his Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from Stetson Law in Florida in 2021, complementing it with an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Taxation from New York University in 2022. He then ventured to Boise, Idaho, delving into Tax Law, Corporate Transactions, and Estate/Wealth Preservation. This diverse experience laid the groundwork for his return to Maine, where he found his professional home at Rudman Winchell. Robert is currently licensed to practice in Maine, Washington, and Idaho as well as before the U.S. Tax Court.
In the realm of tax planning, Robert shines. He employs a unique ‘tax trifecta' approach, considering the effect of all income, property, and sales/use tax consequences to provide comprehensive solutions. Notably, Robert has worked on substantial business mergers and acquisitions involving large national corporations and successfully advocated major international tax controversy matters directly before the IRS.
Robert excels in client interactions with a personal approach, prioritizing a personal understanding of each individual's situation. He skillfully navigates through the misconceptions regarding tax and business law found online and often perpetuated by tax preparers through emphasizing clear, relatable communication and analysis. He helps clients understand the tax consequences of their decisions, both past and future, and guides them to make choices that are well-informed and tax efficient. His blend of empathy, clarity, and strategic efficiency underscores his deep commitment to client service and satisfaction.
Beyond his legal expertise, Robert is an active community member, dedicating his time to volunteering through Pine Tree Legal Assistance assisting veterans residing in Northern Maine. He is multilingual, with a vast knowledge of international issues and complexities. Outside the office, Robert is an avid outdoor enthusiast, enjoying hikes, skiing, and mountain climbing.
As a first-generation college student and a military veteran with over 8 years of service under the Special Operations Command, Robert brings a unique perspective to his practice. For expert legal guidance in tax or business planning tailored to your personal needs, reach out to Robert today.
Ryan Lizanecz is a passionate attorney who is ready to make a positive impact. As an Associate at our firm, Ryan is committed to serving his clients with dedication and enthusiasm.
Ryan's journey into law began at Bates College in Lewiston, where he cultivated his foundational knowledge while serving as student body president. He pursued his law degree at the University of Maine School of Law in 2023 and was admitted to the Maine Bar Association later that year.
While pursuing his legal education, Ryan embarked on a unique path to gain practical experience. He served an elected term on Portland's Charter Commission from 2021 to 2022, where he played a pivotal role in editing the city's charter. This experience exposed him to the nuances of Municipal Law, a field that would become a focal point of his legal career. Additionally, during law school, Ryan interned with the Maine Department of Marine Resources, working on aquaculture policy for the state. He also contributed to the Maine Audubon, collaborating with the director of advocacy on policy-making and lobbying efforts in Augusta. Furthermore, Ryan clerked at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, where he gained valuable insights into personal injury law.
Ryan's dedication and passion for his practice have earned him recognition. In 2022, he received the Shur Frinsko Award for Municipal Law and Local Governance from the University of Maine School of Law. This accolade was a result of his outstanding contribution as a member of the Charter Commission and academic excellence in local government law, reflecting his commitment to serving the community.
Scott T. Lever serves the firm in an ‘of counsel' position providing expert legal services to businesses operating in regulated industries. With a wealth of experience spanning various sectors, including Business & Corporate, Municipal & Land Use, Real Estate, Civil Litigation, and Criminal Defense, Scott has established himself as a trusted advisor and advocate. In addition to his legal practice, Scott is the principal and founder of Lever Consulting. Scott specializes in licensing and compliance for cannabis companies, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate litigation.
Scott's approach to understanding his clients' unique needs involves collaborative leadership and problem-solving. Through thoughtful conversations, he delves into their goals, seeking to connect on a human level. Known for his knowledge, experience, and professional demeanor, Scott provides tailored legal solutions that align with his clients' objectives.
Scott earned his law degree from the University of Maine, School of Law, in 2011, concurrently working for both Cumberland and York County District Attorney's Offices. Later, he served as the Chief Legal Officer and lobbyist for Maine's largest construction trade association, transitioning to a role as a state regulator. Subsequently, Scott held the position of Deputy Commissioner of DHHS, playing a crucial role in securing the recertification of Riverview Psychiatric Center by the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services-a significant achievement in healthcare regulation. He also co-led the launch of Maine's Adult Use Cannabis Program, contributing to the establishment of the state's first regulated Cannabis agency.
Scott's success as an attorney is rooted in his personable, loyal, and intuitive nature. He enjoys participating in sports such as hockey, golf, snowboarding, and Irish hurling, showcasing his well-rounded personality. Scott is actively involved in community events and dedicated to philanthropy, aligning with his values of staying active and engaged in various aspects of life.
In addition to his legal pursuits, Scott passionately participates in charity road biking, covering hundreds of miles each summer in both the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Cycle For Life ride and National MS Society's Bike MS ride alongside his retired pediatrician and pediatric pulmonologist father. He cherishes quality time with his wife, Kira, and their three dogs, Henry, Beatrice, and Dottie, especially on Kira's favorite holiday - Halloween. Scott also finds joy in fly fishing in Northern Maine and fishing with his niece and nephew in the Sebago Region.
For legal assistance that combines experience, insight, and a client-centric approach, contact Scott T. Lever. Scott is ready to leverage his expertise to help you navigate legal challenges and achieve your goals.
Stephen Wagner is a dedicated attorney with a passion for serving his clients. He recently accepted partnership at Rudman Winchell effective January 1, 2024. As a key member of Rudman Winchell's Municipal and Land Use practice, Stephen brings extensive experience and a client-centric approach to his practice.
Stephen's journey into the legal profession was guided by a deep-rooted interest in land use and environmental law. His undergraduate background in environmental policy set the stage for a career that aligns with his personal values and aspirations. Originally from Connecticut, Stephen's commitment to environmental issues led him to Maine, where he has since firmly established his legal career. His first summer job in Maine was for a renowned local cheesemaker. Although his cheese-making skills are best kept in the home kitchen, Stephen's conversations that summer with farmers and food entrepreneurs about the policy and market challenges facing Maine's local food movement solidified his commitment to a Maine-based career in environmental and land use law.
Stephen earned his law degree at the University of Maine School of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude in 2015. His accomplishments during law school include receiving the Outstanding Scholastic Achievement Award in Environmental Law, serving as the Articles Editor of the Ocean and Coastal Law Journal, and earning the 2014 Shur-Frinsko Award for Municipal Law and Local Government.
Following law school, he completed a clerkship with the Maine Superior Court in Bangor before entering private practice. Stephen has since become a trusted authority in municipal, land use, and environmental law. His expertise encompasses areas such as land use appeals and litigation, interlocal agreements, tax increment financing, and economic development initiatives. Stephen has a proven track record of successfully representing private and public clients before local and state administrative boards and in trial and appellate courts. He actively contributes to his profession through speaking engagements at municipal and real estate conferences, and he collaborates closely with fellow members of the firm's Municipal and Land Use practice group to keep clients informed about the latest developments in municipal law.
Stephen's approach to client representation is characterized by a deep understanding of his clients' unique needs and goals. Rather than simply reacting to legal challenges, he partners with all stakeholders to craft long-term solutions that address the underlying issues driving conflicts. Clients and opposing counsel alike hold Stephen in high regard for his ability to maintain a calm and respectful demeanor in the sometimes chaotic and tense environments typical of local government disputes, all while providing clear and practical advice and advocacy.
Beyond his legal career, Stephen's interests include travel, family time, and a love for paddling. He is deeply immersed in the world of food, thanks in part marrying into a family of restaurateurs. He and his wife are known to host memorable dinner parties that bring fellow Mainers together and demonstrate their commitment to community and camaraderie. Additionally, Stephen is an avid gardener, bread baker, and fermentation enthusiast.
Job Titles:
- Managing Partner
- Business Executive
Tim Pease is a highly experienced attorney, business executive, and community leader with over two decades of practice in municipal law, land use, and administrative law. Tim, the Firm's current Managing Partner, is adept at building relationships naturally and quickly, motivating teams to accomplish shared goals, and effectively developing and promoting strategies to solve complex legal challenges.
Tim has a proven track record of working with large-scale developers, county and municipal governments, and handling general practice matters. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as a trusted advocate for clients seeking tailored legal solutions, ensuring that his strategies seamlessly align with each client's individual circumstances. Tim's deep, existing working relationships with key stakeholders and government officials and his skill in bringing together various team members and finding innovative pathways for development sets him apart in his field.
When clients first meet Tim, they're immediately impressed by his thoughtful and comprehensive approach. Drawing on his extensive business experience, Tim excels in helping clients grasp the realistic landscape of their legal matters while efficiently navigating the process toward their desired outcomes. His commitment to illuminating a clear path forward, one that ensures projects stay on track, showcases his distinctive approach. Tim's client-centric philosophy, combined with his adaptability and comprehensive understanding, consistently results in experiences that exceed expectations.
Tim earned his Juris Doctorate from Seattle University in Washington and further enriched his legal education as a visiting student at the University of Miami. He is admitted to practice law in various jurisdictions, showcasing his commitment to serving clients in different regions. Tim actively participates in the community, serving on the board of the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce and the Maine Justice Foundation. His contributions extend beyond legal expertise, as he provides valuable insights and perspectives to help further the goals of these organizations.
Outside of his legal practice, Tim is an avid downhill skier, whitewater canoeist, and road cyclist. He also undertakes the Dempsey Challenge annually and has participated in triathlons. His passion for adventure and exploration translates into his legal work, where he constantly seeks new pathways to success.
Tim harbors a dream of becoming a game show host and enjoys sharing his love for adventure with his son by visiting a different football stadium across the country each year. In addition to his legal endeavors, Tim's entrepreneurial spirit led him to rent out a camper van he co-owns with a friend, providing vacationers with an opportunity to explore the beauty of Maine.
Tim Pease's multifaceted background, exceptional legal skills, and client-centric approach make him a standout attorney in the field. His ability to find creative solutions, coupled with his passion for adventure, truly sets him apart. To benefit from Tim's expertise and experience, contact him at Rudman Winchell today.