Pictured: Melissa Wernick (Left) and Catherine Trinkle (Right)
Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) is pleased to announce that Melissa F. Wernick, Esq. of Millburn and Catherine A. Trinkle, Esq. of Morristown recently joined its Board of Trustees. Melissa is a Member of Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC (CSG Law) based in West Orange, and Catherine is Deputy General Counsel, Regulatory & Environmental Law, and Head of Government Affairs at BASF Corporation, based in Florham Park.
Melissa Wernick is a tenacious litigator with significant trial experience in criminal and civil matters. At CSG Law Melissa’s practice includes white collar criminal defense, regulatory investigations, and complex civil litigation. Melissa is well known for being a zealous advocate for her clients, and she regularly appears in state and federal court on both sides of the Hudson (in addition to alternative dispute resolution forums). When not at CSG Law, Melissa is an active member of the Women’s White Collar Defense Association (New Jersey Chapter) in addition to her generous donation of time and talent to the boards of JCC MetroWest and VLJ.
Of Melissa’s joining the Board, VLJ’s Executive Director, Cathy Keenan, said, “VLJ is incredibly fortunate to have such an advocate for justice on its Board of Trustees, especially one who is an existing VLJ clinic volunteer and whose daily practice involves ensuring access to justice. Melissa’s professional background including her litigation experience bring a unique perspective to the Board and one that will give us insight into the evolving nature of the practice of law, access to justice, and how VLJ can position itself to be a responsive, agile front-line provider of civil legal help. Melissa joins a wonderful group of trustees and on behalf of VLJ’s staff, I look forward to working with her as both a volunteer and now Trustee.”
When asked about her board role at VLJ, Melissa responded, “I’m thrilled to be joining VLJ as a member of its Board of Trustees. Working in the criminal defense space, I’ve witnessed firsthand how important representation is in our justice system. VLJ does a tremendous job providing representation to those in need, and connecting attorney volunteers with opportunities to serve. I’ve enjoyed participating in VLJ’s volunteer clinics, and look forward to further supporting the important work of the organization.”
Melissa is a member of the New Jersey and New York State Bars, and she received a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science, summa cum laude, from Rutgers University (2007) and a Juris Doctor from Boston University School of Law (2010).
Catherine Trinkle brings a wealth of experience to VLJ including regulatory compliance, public policy, and government affairs. Catherine is also currently a board member and treasurer for the Household & Commercial Products Association, an organization that advocates for sound science and laws that encourage a common-sense business environment and product innovation that enables job growth and safe environments for consumers and workers.
VLJ’s Executive Director, Cathy Keenan, says, “Catherine is a committed, longstanding champion of justice and supporter of VLJ, having been instrumental in launching VLJ’s Veterans Legal Wellness Program at the East Orange Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Catherine’s appointment to the Board of Trustees was a ‘no brainer,’ and I have no doubt that VLJ, its staff and clients will immensely benefit from Catherine’s expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm for ensuring access to justice for people experiencing poverty in New Jersey.”
On her appointment to the Board, Catherine relayed, “I’m honored to join the Volunteer Lawyers of Justice Board of Trustees and firmly believe in the importance of access to justice for everyone. Since 2016, BASF has sponsored the Veterans Legal Wellness Program clinic and continues to support that clinic and all the services that VLJ provides. I look forward to working with the Board to further the organization’s vital mission of ensuring access to justice for individuals in need.”
Catherine is a member of the New Jersey State Bar, and she received a Bachelor of Arts in History & French, summa cum laude, from Georgetown University (1993) and a Juris Doctorate from William & Mary Law School (1996). During her time at William & Mary Catherine was on the law review and inducted into the Order of the Coif.