Eckert Seamans Strengthens Litigation Team with Key Partner Addition in Princeton Office

Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC has announced the addition of Joao Magalhaes as a partner in its commercial litigation practice group at the firm’s Princeton, New Jersey office. Magalhaes brings extensive experience in complex commercial disputes, including mass tort defense and construction litigation. His background also includes serving as in-house counsel, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of both litigation and corporate legal strategies. This appointment is part of Eckert Seamans’ ongoing efforts to strengthen its litigation capabilities in the region.

This move follows the firm’s recent expansion into New York City, where it established an office with an 11-attorney team from Hawkins Parnell & Young LLP. ([bizjournals.com](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2025/05/15/eckert-seamans-adds-manhattan-office.html?utm_source=openai)) Additionally, in March 2025, Eckert Seamans welcomed back Michael Posavetz to its Princeton office as a member of the commercial litigation practice group. Posavetz focuses on business disputes, construction litigation, and general liability matters. ([news.bloomberglaw.com](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/privacy-and-data-security/eckert-seamans-adds-posavetz-as-commercial-litigation-member?utm_source=openai))

These strategic hires reflect Eckert Seamans’ commitment to enhancing its litigation services and expanding its presence in key markets. Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC has announced the addition of Joao Magalhaes as a partner in its commercial litigation practice group at the firm’s Princeton, New Jersey office. Magalhaes brings extensive experience in complex commercial disputes, including mass tort defense and construction litigation. His background also includes serving as in-house counsel, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of both litigation and corporate legal strategies. This appointment is part of Eckert Seamans’ ongoing efforts to strengthen its litigation capabilities in the region.

This move follows the firm’s recent expansion into New York City, where it established an office with an 11-attorney team from Hawkins Parnell & Young LLP. ([bizjournals.com](https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2025/05/15/eckert-seamans-adds-manhattan-office.html?utm_source=openai)) Additionally, in March 2025, Eckert Seamans welcomed back Michael Posavetz to its Princeton office as a member of the commercial litigation practice group. Posavetz focuses on business disputes, construction litigation, and general liability matters. ([news.bloomberglaw.com](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/privacy-and-data-security/eckert-seamans-adds-posavetz-as-commercial-litigation-member?utm_source=openai))

These strategic hires reflect Eckert Seamans’ commitment to enhancing its litigation services and expanding its presence in key markets.