Addressing issues with state attorneys general can be particularly challenging because it is where difficult issues intersect with state government, politics, public policy and the law. Lori Kalani is a pioneer at counseling clients through these complexities and has taken attorneys general representation from a distinctive area and turned it into a nationally recognized legal practice, while still treating each client like it is her only one.
Lori Kalani is the co-chair of Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Practice, but her path to building a unique practice area focused on AGs and regulatory agencies was self-directed and varied. It started when she managed DISH Network’s federal and state relationships as a top in-house counsel, one who took it upon herself to visit the AGs and their staff in all 50 states to understand how and why they worked the way they did. Strategic, direct interaction with AGs has proven highly successful for many of Lori’s clients. It is this uncommon approach that truly sets her apart and has enabled her to successfully counsel clients through business transactions, investigations and disputes with government agencies. Her role with DISH Network evolved into the establishment of a State Attorneys General Practice with a global law firm that she later moved to Dickstein & Shapiro and finally to Cozen O’Connor.
Lori’s business-minded approach, and extensive legal, political and policy experience, makes her a highly regarded lawyer and advocate where it counts – in state capitols and in Washington, D.C. Her knowledge, especially in the areas of finance, disruptive technology, gaming, social media, telecommunications, retail, transportation, and dietary supplements, allows her to serve as a trusted liaison between general counsels and state AGs, bridging the gap between the goals of the state and the business community. Whether it is consumer protection, environmental and regulatory inquiries, investigations or litigation, Lori and her team have the skills to make a difference.
Lori has been recognized for her pioneering role as one of America’s Leading Lawyers for Business by Chambers USA and a “Woman Worth Watching” by Profiles in Diversity Journal. The 2016 edition of Chambers USA notes that Lori "possesses far-reaching experience of advocating for clients in sensitive investigations and disputes" and describes her as a "consummate professional who is laser-focused on the issues that are of interest to her clients. If you have a problem with an Attorney General or want to avoid one, she is a go-to hire."
Lori is the co-editor of Cozen O’Connor’s State AG Report blog, the go-to resource for issues relating to AGs.
She is actively involved in AG organizations and programs throughout the country, including serving as an advisory board member on the Conference of Western Attorneys General (CWAG) Alliance Partnership and the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia’s Law Firm Advisory Committee.
Lori is a member of Cozen O’Connor’s board of directors and sits on the firm's PAC Governance and Shareholder Compensation Committees.