Sills Cummis Adds New Practice Chair, Real Estate Atty

Sills Cummis’ addition of new Members, Keith Hemming and Frank Vitolo are highlighted in this Law360 article. Keith R. Hemming joined the firm’s litigation department and will chair its construction and energy law practice, and Frank J. Vitolo joined the real estate department with a focus on land use and redevelopment.

Keith Hemming
“‘I decided to join Sills Cummis because the firm’s expertise in other areas of law complemented my practice and will enable a broader range of services to my clients,’ Hemming, who started at Sills Cummis on July 20, told Law360 Pulse. ‘The opportunity to work with [litigation department chairs] Richard Epstein and Joseph Buckley was instrumental in my decision.,’” The article later continues, “…Hemming believes his experience representing clients in complex commercial transactions and litigating claims in various federal and state courts will help expand Sills Cummis. ‘My experience and client base complements the firm’s real estate and corporate practice groups and I expect many new opportunities for the firm based on these synergies,’ he said. ‘Immediately following my first day, a client inquired about the firm’s capabilities related to intellectual property law. I expect this type of interest to continue and look forward to working with all of the highly skilled practice groups here at Sills Cummis.’”

Frank Vitolo
“‘I switched because I believe that Sills offers a terrific platform for my practice and the firm is interested in planting a flag in the greater Morristown area,’ he told Law360 Pulse, adding that Ted Zangari, chair of the firm’s real estate and outside counsel departments, inspired him to join the firm. Vitolo, who started at Sills Cummis on Aug. 2, said he is planning on tapping into his regional contacts to help Newark-based Sills Cummis expand its business in Morris County and the surrounding area. ‘I have assisted developers and others execute major projects in these areas and will market Sills’ wide array of legal services to existing clients and those looking for a full-service firm of Sills’ caliber,’ he explained. ‘You also can’t underestimate the importance of a firm’s corporate practice, and Sills has one of the best out there.’” The article later continues, ‘Sills’ geographic reach and expertise in incentives and government affairs will allow me to offer ‘one-stop shopping’ for land use and redevelopment services,’ he said. ‘If I didn’t think Sills would help grow my practice, I would not have made the move.’”