SAN FRANCISCO, CA (April 11, 2005):  Farella Braun + Martel LLP announced today the election of Steven R. Lowenthal as the firm's new Chair.

The acclamation by the partnership affirms their trust and dedication to Mr. Lowenthal. "I thank my partners for the honor to lead FBM and look forward to working with firm leadership to continue our financial growth and strategic practice expansion," he stated.

Mr. Lowenthal will officially take the helm on July 1.  In the next couple of months, he will work closely with Bill Schlinkert, outgoing Chair, to transition the position's roles and responsibilities.  Mr. Lowenthal stated, "We are grateful for the years of leadership Bill provided to the firm.  I am proud to take the reins and build on the strong foundation he created."

"Steve Lowenthal is an excellent choice as Chair of Farella Braun + Martel," stated Jim Bruen on behalf of the firm's Strategic Advisory Board.  "He is an outstanding leader and visionary.  We look forward to continued growth and success under Steve's stewardship."

Mr. Lowenthal, a litigation partner, has held numerous leadership positions in his 23-year tenure with Farella Braun + Martel, including head of the Litigation Department and a Member of the Advisory Board.   A 1982 graduate of Stanford Law School, Mr. Lowenthal is admitted to practice in California and various federal district and appellate courts.  He serves on the Board of Governors of the Association of Business Trial Lawyers and has been active in numerous bar and community organizations.

About Farella Braun + Martel LLP
Since its founding in 1962, Farella Braun + Martel has achieved a national reputation for the acumen of its business practice, the high profile cases of its complex commercial litigation practice and its prestigious client base. Based in San Francisco, the firm serves a diverse group of clients from multinational corporations to emerging businesses. The firm also has an office in the Napa Valley focused on the wine industry and related businesses.   

Media Contacts

Steven R. Lowenthal              Cheryl Loof
Chair                                          Marketing Manager
415.954.4405                           415.954.4433