Top 10 Most Influential Food & Beverage Regulatory Lawyers in 2023

Among the many varied specialities within the remit of a legal professional, one area that consistently poses intriguing and at times intricate issues is the Food & Beverages: Regulatory & Litigation sector. These lawyers have the challenging task of not only working in a highly regulated field, but also dealing with ever-changing guidelines concerning the preparation, sale and advertising of food and beverage items. With their competence in dealing with FDA, USDA and FTC regulations, they assist companies in achieving their business goals while remaining compliant with the law. Let’s take a closer look at some of these astute and accomplished attorneys, practicing in the Food & Beverages: Regulatory & Litigation industry, who stand out for their superior expertise and practical knowledge.

They navigate the tightrope of regulatory compliance, litigation strategy and industry advancements with professionalism and dexterity. Their clients range from large multinationals to smaller local businesses and they engage with diverse issues such as labeling, product safety, marketing claims and more. These are the attorneys who ensure that the food and beverages we consume, and the companies that provide them, adhere to the necessary legal protocols and standards of compliance.

These legal luminaries nurture their clients with timely legal advice, strategic planning and comprehensive counsel, remaining by their sides through thick and thin, acting as both their guiding compass and as defense shields when required. Here are ten such noteworthy stalwarts from renowned law firms across the USA:

Jeannie Perron

Currently serving at Covington & Burling LLP, Jeannie Perron is widely known for her comprehensive knowledge of animal food law and proficiency in advising on FDA and FTC regulation matters. With an excellent reputation in the industry, she provides great counsel to her clients.

Jessica P. O’Connell

Also from Covington & Burling LLP, Jessica P. O’Connell’s respected food and beverage practice includes handling labeling claims, FDA, USDA and FTC regulation compliance, and litigation strategy. Clients celebrate her outstanding subject matter expertise and service.

Angela Spivey

Angela Spivey, co-chair of the food and beverage practice at Alston & Bird LLP, handles a wide spectrum of contentious and regulatory issues, including class action litigation related to labeling, outbreaks and product recalls. Best-in-class service is her trademark.

Christopher Van Gundy

Christopher Van Gundy of Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP excels in dealing with false advertising claims and labeling issues. His depth of knowledge and tailored advice to business needs are invaluable assets for his clients.

Justin Prochnow

With Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Justin Prochnow assists clients on both regulatory and litigation issues, including FDA inspections, mislabeling claims and advertising matters. His knowledge and guidance on food labeling laws are well-respected in the industry.

Veronica Colas

Veronica Colas at Hogan Lovells US LLP regularly advises on labeling requirements, food safety regulation compliance, and advertising issues. Her expertise and timely guidance, aligned with commercial considerations, are greatly respected.

Dale Giali

Dale Giali, from King & Spalding LLP, primarily focuses on class action litigation and is a preferred choice among international corporations within the food and beverages industry. Praised for his business acumen and expertise, his strategic advice is highly sought after.

Martin J Hahn

Martin Hahn of Hogan Lovells US LLP brings his significant experience of handling FDA matters, a background in food technology and his expertise in compliance and food safety matters to clients’ tables. He is referred to as an outstanding and highly responsive lawyer.

Elizabeth Fawell

Also from Hogan Lovells US LLP, Elizabeth Fawell advises multinational corporations and trade associations on FDA regulation, foodborne illness matters, and product labeling. Her deep knowledge and timely advice are renowned in the industry.

David T. Biderman

David Biderman at Perkins Coie LLP is frequently called upon to defend clients in state and federal courts following labeling and advertising claims. Applauded for his excellent litigation skills and great client service, he’s known for his sophisticated, effective approach.