Law firms Morgan Carlo Downs and Ward & Herzog have merged to form Downs Ward Bender Hauptmann & Herzog, P.A., effective Jan. 1, 2019. The merger fosters the expansion of services and growth of both firms.

“Our new firm, in which all six partners are litigators with extensive trial experience, will allow each of us to be stronger and to offer our clients new and expanded services in each of our practice areas,” said Partner Margaret Fonshell Ward.

Among the firm’s practice areas are medical professional and long-term care liability defense, health care licensing, insurance defense, insurance coverage, employment practices liability, commercial litigation, trademarks and workers’ compensation.

The women-owned firm is located in Hunt Valley, practices in Maryland, the District of Columbia and Virginia and represents clients nationwide.

“Our joint philosophies and strengths of experience, good judgment and a proactive approach to reaching the best result are the reasons this merger will be so positive for our clients. We are goal-driven to reach inventive solutions, while giving each client personalized service,” said Partner Mary Alane Downs.

Partners in Downs Ward Bender Hauptmann & Herzog, P.A., are Mary Alane Downs, Margaret Fonshell Ward, Steffany K. Bender, Robin E. Hauptmann, Karen M. Herzog, Morrisann Martin and Christian W. Kintigh.

Downs Bender Ward Hauptmann & Herzog, P.A., is a law firm specializing in litigation and appeals of complex civil cases. The firm’s practice encompasses the entire Maryland and Washington, D.C., area as well as the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region and nationwide. (downs-ward.com)