LOS ANGELES (March 13, 2013) – Morrison & Foerster today announced that David M. Walsh, a prominent consumer class action litigator, has joined the firm as a partner in its Los Angeles office.
Mr. Walsh's experience in complex litigation includes defending businesses against class actions alleging violations of California's Unfair Competition Law and Consumers Legal Remedies Act, along with analogous laws in other states. He also regularly handles class actions and other litigation arising from false advertising, food labeling, environmental, and employment claims.
According to Arturo González, co-chair of Morrison & Foerster's 500-lawyer Litigation Department, Mr. Walsh's practice will enhance the firm's already considerable experience defending businesses against a wide range of putative class actions.
"It's no secret, particularly to the plaintiffs' bar, that California is ground zero for consumer class actions of every stripe," said Mr. González. "Our group has distinguished itself as a go-to practice for businesses facing an onslaught of high-stakes courtroom battles. David's incredible track record will be extremely attractive to our clients."
Added Rebekah Kaufman, chair of the firm's Consumer Litigation and Class Action Practice Group, "David's successful representation of leading consumer products companies and other businesses across a wide range of industries makes him a perfect fit for our group."
Mr. Walsh's achievements include successfully defending:
- A major consumer electronics manufacturer in a series of class actions alleging misleading advertising and other misrepresentations;
- The world's largest provider of wireless insurance services in multiple nationwide class actions alleging that the company's marketing materials were deceptive and that its claims-handling process was fraudulent;
- A major pharmaceutical distributor in patient privacy claims; and
- An international food company in a mislabeling and environmental class action.
"I am delighted to join one of the nation's top class action defense teams, and the unqualified leader in defense of actions under California's Unfair Competition Law, the CLRA, Proposition 65 and privacy statutes," said Mr. Walsh. "These cases are exploding, and businesses face significant reputational and monetary risks. My practice fits in exceptionally well at MoFo given the firm's long history handling such matters on behalf of industry-leading players in financial services, electronics, manufacturing, healthcare, food, home products and other major sectors."