Ballard Spahr Adds Two Attorneys, Expands Practices in Minneapolis

Intellectual property lawyer Jodi DeSchane and public finance attorney Rebecca Lawrence have joined Ballard Spahr, firm Chair Mark Stewart announced today.

Ms. DeSchane is Of Counsel in the firm’s Intellectual Property Department. Her practice centers on trademark, copyright, advertising, social media, and internet-related matters, especially for clients in the banking, retail, restaurant, human resources, consumer products, professional sports, and franchising industries.

Ms. Lawrence is Senior Counsel in the firm’s Finance Department. She counsels clients on public finance and fixed-income products, with a focus on the regulation of municipal securities underwriters and municipal advisers. Prior to joining the firm, she served as in-house counsel at Piper Jaffray (now Piper Sandler) for more than a decade.

The arrival of Ms. DeSchane and Ms. Lawrence follows that of Lori Sommerfield, who is Of Counsel in the Consumer Financial Services group and joined the Minneapolis office in February.

“We are thrilled that these three accomplished attorneys have joined us,” said Minneapolis Office Managing Partner Karla M. Vehrs. “Our national platform and value-focused client service model will help them grow and develop their practices, and our clients will appreciate the skills and experience they bring to the table.”

The attorneys in Ballard Spahr’s Minneapolis office represent emerging and established local, regional, and national businesses in M&A and private equity transactions and matters involving corporate governance and financing, tax, real estate, and regulatory compliance. They advocate for clients in a range of litigation matters, including bankruptcy cases and media and entertainment law. They also represent individuals in public finance, private client services, white collar defense, and business matters.

About Ballard Spahr

Ballard Spahr LLP, an AmLaw 100 law firm with more than 650 lawyers in 15 U.S. offices, serves clients across industry sectors in litigation, transactions, and regulatory compliance. We partner with clients—from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, governments, and non-profit organizations—to deliver the strategic counsel, powerful advocacy, and dynamic thinking that helps them overcome challenges, protect what’s important, and position themselves for future success. The firm combines a comprehensive scope of practice with strong regional market knowledge. And we are nationally recognized in the development and use of innovative technology to drive efficiency, transparency, and results. Please visit www.ballardspahr.com.