Q&A with Our New Partners
Our newsletter team recently sat down with new partners Lori Wisniewski Azzara and Maria L. Panichelli.
Q: How did you get started in construction, given that few women lawyers focus on this industry?
A: Lori — During law school, I worked at a construction law firm in Pittsburgh. While there, I was immersed in all aspects of construction and construction law and quickly learned the unique and exciting aspects of the industry. One partner that I worked closely with was a woman and a mother, and showed me that women can be successful in the construction industry, despite often times being the minority.
Q: What first drew you to Cohen Seglias?
A: Maria — Prior to working at Cohen Seglias, I practiced at two large-sized firms. I was kind of a jack-of-all trades, general litigator. I really liked litigation, but I was looking for a career that would allow me to develop my expertise in a particular practice area. When I was approached and asked to interview for the Federal Group at Cohen Seglias, it was the perfect opportunity. I knew of the firm — it has a great reputation with its clients and with other attorneys — and working with the Federal Group offered me a chance to continue litigating but also develop a very specialized area of practice in a growing and dynamic field. It was a perfect fit.
Q: What made you stay and grow here? What is it that you like about the firm?
A: Lori — Since starting at the firm, I have been a part in helping it grow, not only in the Pittsburgh region, but into Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia. When I started, we had only a few offices. Now, we have grown to 10 offices and have more than doubled the number of attorneys. It is exciting to be a part of that growth, and I look forward to continuing to play a role, now as a partner, in the firm’s very promising future.
A: Maria — I think our firm is unique in that we approach the practice of law in a holistic way. It is not just about solving the specific problem a client puts in front of you, but looking at a company, its business plan, and its future goals, to help develop a comprehensive plan for success. We are always looking at the big picture and striving to see what additional value we can provide the client. I really like that. Our practice is also very collaborative and friendly. Even though many of us are in different practice groups, with various areas of expertise, we all work together to help achieve the best possible result for our clients.
Q: What services do you provide your clients?
A: Lori — Because I am licensed in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia, I am able to assist my clients on both a regional and local level. In construction, clients are often working across state lines. I can provide continuity in assisting with all aspects of their projects, from contract review and negotiation to preparing notice letters during construction to claim preparation and submission, regardless of the state in which they are working. After being a part of the development of the Pittsburgh office, I am taking that experience and focusing on the development of the Kentucky office and increasing our presence in the Midwest.
A: Maria — I run the gamut of all things Federal contracting and small business procurement. From SBA and VA Small Business programs certification and eligibility issues, to REAs and claims, to bid protests, to size/status determination cases, to drafting subcontracts, teaming agreements, and joint ventures. If it is in the Federal contracting realm, I do it.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your practice?
A: Maria — Two things, really. First, the problem solving. I really enjoy sitting down and figuring out how to make the law work in our client’s favor. Second, I like that in law, you are always learning new things. You never stop growing and expanding your capabilities.
A: Lori — Practicing in the construction industry and at this firm for the last 10 years has opened so many doors and allowed me to see and be a part of many amazing projects. Every day is different for me, and I truly enjoy getting out of the office to meet my clients at the project site to see their work. I can be a part of a project from the beginning with contract drafting and negotiation, all the way to the end, with ensuring that my clients are fully compensated for their work. In addition, I am very passionate about green and sustainable construction, and Pittsburgh is leading the country on so many levels in this area. It is an exciting time to practice in the Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.