Pepper Hamilton Strengthens New York Construction Practice with Addition of Vincent J. Torna
Pepper Hamilton LLP announced today that Vincent J. Torna has joined the firm as of counsel in the Construction Practice Group, resident in the New York office.
Mr. Torna has spent more than 30 years representing contractors in litigation involving infrastructure and public works projects, and counsels clients in regard to matters in state and federal courts at the trial and appellate levels, as well as administrative proceedings and arbitrations. His litigation experience has encompassed virtually every aspect of construction and real estate claims, including representation of contractors, subcontractors, developers, sureties, public school districts and design professionals in litigation involving bridges, roadways, tunnels, utilities, subway and railroad infrastructure projects and institutional buildings. Mr. Torna also advises contractors on MBE/WBE/DBE requirements and mentors MBE/WBE/DBE firms on obtaining certifications.
“Vince brings a wealth of experience to the practice, and is a well-known and well-respected member of the New York construction bar. His vast breadth and depth of knowledge, especially as it pertains to both public and private construction matters, will provide invaluable assistance to our team and clients,” said Michael Subak, chair of Pepper’s Construction Practice Group.
Ira Schulman, head of Pepper’s New York construction practice, notes “Vince has superb experience and has substantive depth in construction law especially as it pertains to the New York market – we are delighted to welcome him to Pepper.”
Prior to joining Pepper, Mr. Torna was the leader of Connell Foley’s New York Construction Law practice, and chaired his own construction and real estate litigation practice preceded by a partnership at a prominent New York City area construction law boutique. He came to private practice after serving in multiple government positions, including assistant division chief in the Commercial and Real Estate Litigation divisions for the New York City Law Department, where he represented the city in all phases of major real estate and construction litigation.
Mr. Torna also served as general counsel for the New York City Department of Ports and Trade, the municipal agency formerly responsible for the economic development and regulation of waterfront properties and marine facilities. This position followed his role as a special assistant attorney general in the Office of the New York State Special Prosecutor, where he tried narcotics and official misconduct cases.
Mr. Torna received his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law and his B.A. in philosophy from Georgetown University.