Introduction
Amy Spencer is a member of the Government Investigations & White Collar Defense practice group and the Higher Education team. She represents organizations and individuals in investigations, regulatory inquiries, and complex criminal and civil cases involving securities and financial fraud, Title IX, NCAA compliance, NIL issues, election law, and other federal and state law matters.
My focus
I represent organizations and individuals involved in federal, state, and administrative criminal, civil, and regulatory investigations, inquiries, and proceedings, and in complex criminal and civil litigation. I conduct internal investigations and have helped clients successfully navigate criminal and regulatory investigations. By listening to my clients and vigorously investigating the relevant facts, I have secured non-prosecution agreements for clients under federal and state investigation and negotiated favorable plea agreements and settlements that avoid or resolve issues without protracted public court proceedings.
My work includes representing organizations and individuals in matters involving mail and wire fraud, securities fraud, bank fraud, Medicare and Medicaid fraud, money laundering, cybersecurity, identity theft, campaign finance and election law, civil rights and discrimination, consumer protection, complex commercial disputes, sex offenses, RICO, the FCA, the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute, HIPAA, ITAR and EAR, the FCPA, and other federal and state laws, at every stage of the process, from the initial contact through final appeal.
As founder of the firm’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) practice, a significant portion of my civil practice involves representing and advising educational institutions, faculty, and staff, in matters involving the emerging field of NIL, NCAA and secondary athletic compliance, coaching changes, and student-athlete transfers and eligibility. I also counsel higher education client on Title IX, other disciplinary proceedings, academic misconduct, employment, and civil rights—including special education.
I have also successfully negotiated the settlement of numerous coordinated cases pending in various state and federal courts, including many cases consolidated in a nationwide multidistrict litigation.
In addition, I work to vindicate clients’ due process, First Amendment, and voting rights. I was part of the team that successfully challenged Senate Bill 3, a law that sought to complicate the New Hampshire voter registration process, resulting in the trial court issuing a preliminary and permanent injunction and the New Hampshire Supreme Court ultimately striking the law as unconstitutional.
Prior to joining Nixon Peabody, I served as a law clerk for the Honorable Steven J. McAuliffe of the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire, the Honorable Carolyn Dineen King of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, the Honorable John E. Sprizzo of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and the Honorable Kevin Thomas Duffy of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Most recently, I was a partner at a regional law firm in New Hampshire, and previously worked as a litigation associate at a large international law firm and a midsize national law firm in New York.
Representative experience
Below representative experience includes engagements and representations from prior firms.
I have achieved numerous positive outcomes for my clients in cases spanning the full spectrum of my practice, including:
- Successfully appealed a client’s federal criminal conviction to the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, which reversed his conviction because the Government failed to present sufficient evidence from which a reasonable jury could find guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, United States v. Pothier; 919 F.3d 143 (1st Cir. 2019) (oral argument available at https://www.ca1.uscourts.gov/sites/ca1/files/oralargs/18-1561_20190306-0934_01d4d3ffd3202f1-0.mp3)
- Represented a Fortune 200 financial institution and several executives and employees in a state criminal wiretap investigation resulting in no criminal or civil charges and in the ensuing civil employment action resulting in a confidential low-dollar settlement.
- Represent an individual in a high profile federal criminal investigation involving unprecedented allegations of campaign finance and election law violations.
- Represent an academic physician in multiple state and federal matters, including in a national multidistrict litigation and as a witness in a federal bankruptcy adversary proceeding involving a major pharmaceutical company.
- Worked on a team that represented a life insurance premium finance company in a wide-ranging federal criminal investigation resulting in a non-prosecution agreement.
- Represented a global turbomachinery development and manufacturing company in responding to a federal subpoena seeking sensitive and protected information.
- Represented a United States citizen living abroad in a federal criminal investigation involving allegations of mail and wire fraud, bank fraud, and identity theft resulting in a non-prosecution agreement.
- Worked on a team that represented a Global 500 financial institution in multiple federal and state securities fraud investigations related to the residential mortgage backed securities offerings.
- Worked on a team that represented a Fortune 500 financial institution in multiple matters in state and federal court involving allegations of mortgage fraud.
- Represented healthcare providers, medical practices, and medical device companies in criminal, civil, and regulatory investigations, including resolving pre-charge a federal inquiry involving FCA, Controlled Substances Act, and Medicare and Medicaid fraud.
- Represented healthcare providers and medical practices in inquiries involving allegations of Stark, Anti-Kickback, and HIPAA violations.
- Represented healthcare providers in inquiries and adversary proceedings conducted by various state regulatory boards.
- Drafted Title IX and other school disciplinary policies and counseled and advised regarding implementation of the same.
- Advised an independent school through several Title IX investigations and other disciplinary and employment matters.
- Represented NCAA student-athletes, medical students, and others in federal court challenging disciplinary actions, including expulsions, suspensions, and removal from all team activities, on the bases of race discrimination, sex discrimination, including same-sex discrimination, and breach of contract.
- Represented NCAA student-athletes in an internal investigation of an authority figure conducted by the institution and outside counsel.
- Represented an ROTC and honors student in a university Title IX matter resulting in a finding of not responsible.
- Represented individuals, including faculty and NCAA coaches, in employment and academic misconduct matters.
- Represent a former member of the New Hampshire National Guard challenging his wrongful conviction in federal court and seeking his exoneration.
- Represent clients in civil and criminal appeals before the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
- Represented an individual in a federal criminal trial, on appeal, and in filing a petition for certiorari in the United States Supreme Court.
- Served as court-appointed pro bono counsel representing an incarcerated individual in a federal civil rights case alleging federal and state constitutional and statutory claims involving police misconduct and resolving the same on confidential favorable terms.
- Worked on a team that successfully challenged Senate Bill 3, a law that sought to complicate the New Hampshire voter registration process, resulting in the trial court issuing a preliminary and permanent injunction and the New Hampshire Supreme Court ultimately striking the law as unconstitutional.
Looking ahead
The Department of Justice has expressly stated it intends to increase its civil and criminal enforcement, in connection with other federal and state law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies, in several high-priority areas, such as financial fraud and corporate compliance; public and corporate corruption, foreign and domestic; COVID-19 pandemic fraud; campaign finance and election fraud; and cybersecurity, among other areas. I expect this commitment to increased enforcement to continue in the foreseeable future.
In the education context, the continually shifting Title IX landscape and evolving regulations will continue to pose complicated issues for educational institutions, students, and faculty, alike. Further, issues relating to NCAA compliance, especially with the addition and evolution of the Transfer Portal and NIL, will only become more complex and prevalent. Lastly, in light of the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, No. 20-1199 (June 29, 2023), issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion will be front and center, and schools will need to develop strategies and policies to ensure they are in compliance with the law.
In the news
Under new law, Tara Reardon could not vote on issues her husband lobbies for, critics say
Sep 2, 2024This article covers how a new New Hampshire conflict of interest law could affect a senate race involving Tara Reardon, who is married to lobbyist and former Concord mayor Jim Bouley. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense counsel Amy Spencer is quoted in the coverage, discussing legal details and the statutes involved.
- Associated Press
Both sides argue for resolution of verdict dispute in New Hampshire youth center abuse case
Aug 23, 2024This article covers final requests filed by both sides to resolve David Meehan’s $38 million disputed jury verdict in the first New Hampshire Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo, quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan, discusses the injustice that would be created by either a new trial or Meehan’s acceptance of a small fraction of the jury’s intended award. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- InDepthNH.org
Fiscal OKs changes to YDC settlement program; Chairman suggests lie detectors
Aug 16, 2024This article covers approved changes to the YDC Settlement Fund to make it more attractive to victims and Fiscal Committee Chair Rep. Ken Weyler’s suggested use of lie detector. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Mark Knights is quoted in the coverage, discussing how the legislature expressly directed that the Settlement Fund process be conducted in a victim-centered manner to avoid retraumatizing survivors. Mark is part of the NP team representing more than 1,400 abuse victims. The team includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Dave Vicinanzo of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- InDepthNH.org
Maine law firm vets YDC abuse claims and paid from same victims’ settlement fund
Aug 14, 2024This article covers the State of New Hampshire’s enlistment of a Maine law firm to vet victim claims for the YDC Settlement Funds. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Mark Knights is quoted in the coverage, discussing the significant concern this enlistment should cause New Hampshire taxpayers and what it could mean for victims. Mark is part of the NP team representing more than 1,400 abuse victims. The team includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Dave Vicinanzo of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- WMUR
Judge grants new extension to figure out how to proceed in $38 million YDC abuse verdict
Aug 2, 2024This article covers an additional extension by the court to determine how to proceed in David Meehan’s $38 million YDC abuse verdict. Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, part of the NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,300 abuse victims, is quoted in the coverage discussing how he thinks the court can correct the verdict to reflect the jury’s actual intent, which was to award the full $38 million to Meehan. NP’s YDC team also includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Dave Vicinanzo and Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- WMUR
More money needed for settlement fund to pay YDC victims, New Hampshire Senate president says
July 30, 2024This article and related broadcast segment cover the potential major shortfalls in the YDC Settlement Fund based on the hundreds of claims that remain to be addressed. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Mark Knights joins the segment to discuss the generational and societal impacts of abuse and the potentially massive financial burden for the state. Mark is part of the NP team representing more than 1,400 abuse victims. The team includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Dave Vicinanzo of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- InDepthNH.org
YDC abuse settlement fund headed for ‘looming shortfall,’ victims’ attorney says
July 24, 2024This article covers YDC Fund Administrator John Broderick’s latest report. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Mark Knights is quoted, discussing how the fund has a little less than $60 million remaining, with almost six times as much in pending claims. He notes that if the state doesn’t allocate more soon, the fund will fail despite recent progress to improve it. Mark is part of the NP team representing more than 1,400 abuse victims. The team includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Dave Vicinanzo of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- New Hampshire Union
Top lawmakers call pause on paying YDC victims a ‘bad look’
July 11, 2024This article covers the YDC Settlement Fund and the State of New Hampshire’s temporary pause on claims and payment processing for victims. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted in the coverage, discussing concerns the pause raises and how replenishing it in a timely manner is essential to the program’s success. Dave leads the NP team representing more than 1,400 abuse victims, which includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- InDepthNH.org
YDC abuse fund on temporary hold; revised law allows 10 years to pay victim claims
July 8, 2024This article covers the State of New Hampshire’s temporary pause on claims and payment processing for the YDC Settlement Fund. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Mark Knights is quoted in the coverage, discussing discontent among claimants who accepted settlements but won’t get paid for several months, and how uncertainty around whether and when the state will pay the awards could drive people away from the settlement fund and back into court. Mark is part of the NP team representing more than 1,400 abuse victims, which includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Dave Vicinanzo of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- Associated Press
Disputed verdict draws both sides back to court in New Hampshire youth detention center abuse case
June 24, 2024The following coverage reports on Monday’s hearing related to David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first New Hampshire Youth Development Center trial, as well as the public release of long-sealed arrest warrant affidavits against several men charged with abusing children at YDC. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- New Hampshire Union Leader
Debate continues on $38 million jury award to YDC victim
June 24, 2024The following coverage reports on Monday’s hearing related to David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first New Hampshire Youth Development Center trial, as well as the public release of long-sealed arrest warrant affidavits against several men charged with abusing children at YDC. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- WMUR
Hearing held regarding recent YDC civil trial outcome
June 24, 2024The following coverage reports on Monday’s hearing related to David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first New Hampshire Youth Development Center trial, as well as the public release of long-sealed arrest warrant affidavits against several men charged with abusing children at YDC. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- InDepthNH.org
Arrest affidavits of accused YDC abusers unsealed; hearing on payout to first victim to win civil suit
June 24, 2024The following coverage reports on Monday’s hearing related to David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first New Hampshire Youth Development Center trial, as well as the public release of long-sealed arrest warrant affidavits against several men charged with abusing children at YDC. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- New Hampshire Business Review
Overview of historic $38 million jury award in landmark YDC abuse case
June 20, 2024This article recaps the news to date following the verdict in the first New Hampshire Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing plaintiff David Meehan in the trial. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, Washington, DC Complex Disputes associate Myra Benjamin, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester, and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- Bloomberg Law
New Hampshire ban on teaching about bias ruled unconstitutional
May 29, 2024The following article covers a federal judge’s ruling in New Hampshire that the state’s “divisive concepts” law—restricting what can be taught in public schools about diversity, equity, and inclusion—violates the constitutional rights of educators. Boston Complex Disputes partner Morgan Nighan is quoted in the coverage for representing the National Education Association of New Hampshire. The NP team representing the plaintiffs also includes Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo and counsel Amy Spencer.
- New Hampshire Union Leader
Federal judge strikes down New Hampshire law on banned concepts
May 28, 2024The following article covers a federal judge’s ruling in New Hampshire that the state’s “divisive concepts” law—restricting what can be taught in public schools about diversity, equity, and inclusion—violates the constitutional rights of educators. Boston Complex Disputes partner Morgan Nighan is quoted in the coverage for representing the National Education Association of New Hampshire. The NP team representing the plaintiffs also includes Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo and counsel Amy Spencer.
- NH Journal
Federal judge tosses New Hampshire’s anti-discrimination law as too vague
May 28, 2024The following article covers a federal judge’s ruling in New Hampshire that the state’s “divisive concepts” law—restricting what can be taught in public schools about diversity, equity, and inclusion—violates the constitutional rights of educators. Boston Complex Disputes partner Morgan Nighan is quoted in the coverage for representing the National Education Association of New Hampshire. The NP team representing the plaintiffs also includes Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo and counsel Amy Spencer.
- InDepthNH.org
Judge: State’s liability in YDC abuse ‘beyond doubt’
May 15, 2024The following article covers a New Hampshire Superior Court judge’s order denying the State’s motion to invalidate David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first NH Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, and GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- Associated Press
Judge quickly denies request to discard $38 million verdict in New Hampshire youth center abuse case
May 15, 2024The following article covers a New Hampshire Superior Court judge’s order denying the State’s motion to invalidate David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first NH Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, and GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- The Boston Globe
New Hampshire judge denies state’s request to invalidate $38 million YDC verdict
May 15, 2024The following article covers a New Hampshire Superior Court judge’s order denying the State’s motion to invalidate David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first NH Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, and GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- WMUR News 9
Judge denies state’s motion to change jury’s verdict in YDC trial
May 15, 2024The following article covers a New Hampshire Superior Court judge’s order denying the State’s motion to invalidate David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first NH Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, and GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- New Hampshire Union Leader
Judge denies state’s attempt to toss YDC lawsuit
May 15, 2024The following article covers a New Hampshire Superior Court judge’s order denying the State’s motion to invalidate David Meehan’s $38 million jury verdict in the first NH Youth Development Center trial. Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Dave Vicinanzo is quoted and mentioned in the coverage for representing Meehan. The NP team representing Meehan and more than 1,400 abuse victims includes Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Mark Knights of Manchester and Brian French of Boston, Manchester Privacy & Technology partner Dan Deane, Manchester Complex Disputes partner Nate Warecki, Chicago Healthcare partner April Schweitzer, Complex Disputes senior counsel Sam Goldblatt of Boston and Mike Philippi of Chicago, Long Island Healthcare counsel Michal Cantor, Manchester GIWC counsel Amy Spencer, Manchester Complex Disputes associate Erin Bucksbaum, Manchester GIWC associate Allison Regan, eDiscovery and Litigation Support director Mike Swiatocha, Manchester Complex Disputes senior paralegal Sharon Willier, and GIWC paralegal and victim specialist Joelle Wiggin of Manchester and paralegal Erin MacMahon of Boston.
- Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
People in the law
Sep 1, 2023This roundup article of recent legal industry moves in the region includes Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense counsel Amy Spencer’s arrival to the firm, noting that she is also a member of the firm’s Higher Education team and is licensed to practice in Massachusetts.
- New Hampshire Business Review
Legal briefs
July 20, 2023This article covering legal news from around New Hampshire includes the arrival of Manchester Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense counsel Amy Spencer.
Admitted to practice
New Hampshire
Massachusetts
New York
California
U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts
U.S. District Court, District of New Hampshire
U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York
U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas
U.S. District Court, Central District of California
U.S. Court of Appeals, First Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit
Education
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, J.D., summa cum laude; Order of the Coif; William T. Aggeler Award recipient; Chief Symposium Editor, Loyola of Los Angeles Law Review
Columbia College of Columbia University, B.A.
Professional activities
- Board member, The Forward Foundation
- Member, Women's White Collar Defense Association, Boston Chapter
- Chair, Federal Practice Section, New Hampshire Bar Association
- Member, Federal Court Advisory Committee for the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire
- Member, New Hampshire Women’s Bar Association
- Member, New Hampshire Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Former member, Town of Pelham, New Hampshire Board of Selectmen
- Founder and former member, Pelham Youth Council
- Former member, Town of Pelham, New Hampshire Budget Committee
Recognition
- United States District Court, District of New Hampshire, Pro Bono Honor Roll
- New Hampshire Association for Justice, Granite State Advocate Award (co-award winner)
- New Hampshire House Democrats, Defenders of Democracy Award (co-award winner)
Pro bono services
Amy has significant experience representing individuals and nonprofit organizations in criminal and civil matters on a pro bono basis, including representation in habeas cases, civil rights litigation, and employment matters. Most recently, she accepted an appointment by the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire to represent a client pro bono in a 42 U.S.C. § 1983 case alleging federal and state constitutional and statutory claims involving significant allegations of widespread police misconduct. Amy helped her client resolve the matter to his satisfaction, setting him on a path to success outside the prison walls.
Insights And Happenings
View AllProfessionals in the Practice Area
View AllRobert Fisher
Partner / Practice Group Leader, Government Investigations & White Collar Defense- Boston
- Office:+1 617.345.1335
- rfisher@nixonpeabody.com
-
Hannah Bornstein
Partner / Deputy Practice Group Leader, Government Investigations & White Collar Defense- Boston
- Office:+1 617.345.1217
- hbornstein@nixonpeabody.com
-
