Washington, D.C. – Crain’s New York Business named Wilkinson Stekloff Partner Moira Penza to its annual 40 under 40 list, recognizing the most accomplished New York City-based professionals under age 40 across all sectors of the business world, including law, finance, real estate, technology, healthcare innovation, hospitality and the arts.
Announcing her selection to 2021’s 40 under 40 class, Crain’s called Moira “very much a legal star” and praised her ability to relate to juries and witnesses while also proving to be “a canny legal strategist” who can “go for the jugular when necessary.” In an interview with Crain’s, Moira said one of the secrets to her success is that adversaries do not always expect her to “be as fierce” as she “definitely can be.”
“She has ingenuity, creativity and doggedness,” Founding Partner Beth Wilkinson said to Crain’s about Moira. “She has great confidence, but she also has humility. Jurors can see that.”
Crain’s highlighted Moira’s trial conviction of Nxivm leader Keith Raniere, as well as her recent work in private practice investigating allegations of misconduct at the Washington Football Team, her representation of Summer Zervos in her defamation case against Donald Trump, and her role in national litigation on behalf of Altria arising out of its minority investment in JUUL. Crain’s praised the nominees for their “dedication to keeping New York moving during one of its toughest times.”
“I am thrilled to be named a 40 under 40 among such a successful and diverse group of business professionals,” said Moira Penza. “I have dedicated my career to helping others through my legal advocacy, and as a lifelong New Yorker, I am proud to be recognized for the impact that I have made on my city.”
Founded in February 2016, Wilkinson Stekloff has grown to nearly 40 lawyers and has quickly established itself as the leading trial boutique firm in the country. The firm has tried over a dozen cases to verdict across the country, winning the vast majority, and has won several other pre-trial victories in bet-the-company cases.
###