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Genova Burns LLC this week announced the addition of Neil J. Cleary, Esq. as counsel, where he will spearhead the firm’s white-collar crime practice and enhance its litigation and corporate investigations teams.  

Cleary brings over 20 years of legal and prosecutorial experience, positioning Genova Burns to offer its clients unparalleled insight into high-stakes litigation, corporate compliance, and regulatory matters. 

Prior to joining Genova Burns, Cleary served as first assistant prosecutor at the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, overseeing the operations of a team comprising over 175 legal and investigative professionals. His role included managing complex case assignments, collaborating with law enforcement agencies at multiple levels, and directing internal affairs investigations. 

Throughout his career with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Cleary held prominent roles, including chief assistant prosecutor and senior assistant prosecutor, managing post-indictment cases and overseeing the agency’s trial unit. Additionally, since 2003, he has been certified as an instructor by the Police Training Commission, where he imparts critical criminal law knowledge to cadets. 

Cleary’s extensive background also includes positions with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Judiciary, as well as academic contributions as an adjunct professor at Berkeley College. His teaching experience underscores his commitment to training future leaders in criminal justice. 

Cleary received his law degree from New England Law in Boston, where he earned the prestigious CALI Award for Employment Law, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Rowan University.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Neil to our team at Genova Burns,” James M. Burns, Esq., managing partner of Genova Burns LLC., said Monday. “His extensive prosecutorial experience and deep understanding of white-collar crime and corporate investigations will significantly benefit our clients as they navigate today’s complex legal landscape. Neil’s experience will be instrumental in providing our clients with strategic counsel and effective solutions.” 

With his formidable experience in criminal and regulatory investigations, Cleary is positioned to enhance Genova Burns’ capabilities in providing high-quality legal services to clients facing challenging compliance, litigation, and investigation needs. 

About Genova Burns LLC 

Genova Burns LLC, headquartered in Newark, is a full-service law firm with deep understanding across diverse practice areas, including litigation, corporate law, employment law, bankruptcy, government contracts, and ethics and compliance. Serving clients from local businesses to Fortune 500 companies, Genova Burns combines industry insight with a strong dedication to legal excellence.