Patrick C. Dunican Jr. has joined Connell Foley as a partner in the Corporate Practice Group, where he will focus on law firm consulting, expert opinion, risk management, and higher education governance. He will also support business development and client relationship initiatives at the firm.
Dunican previously held leadership roles at Gibbons P.C., serving as managing director and executive chairperson for 18 years. During his time there, he guided the firm’s strategic direction and oversaw operational leadership through various economic cycles. He began his legal career in 1992 after working as editor-in-chief of the Seton Hall Law Review and clerking for Judge Clarkson S. Fisher.
“Pat’s addition to our partnership represents a significant milestone for him and Connell Foley,” said Timothy E. Corriston, managing partner of Connell Foley LLP. “His reputation as a ‘lawyer’s lawyer’ and his extensive network across legal, business, government and academic sectors will be invaluable as we continue to expand our capabilities and provide comprehensive business and legal solutions to our client’s complex challenges.”
“I am excited to join Connell Foley at this pivotal time in the firm’s growth,” said Dunican. “Connell Foley’s dedication to client service and its collaborative culture are closely aligned with my professional values, establishing an effective partnership for both existing and prospective clients. I look forward to contributing to the firm’s continued success.”
Dunican has significant experience in higher education governance, having served over 13 years on Iona University’s Board of Legal Trustees—including two years as Chair—where he helped oversee the institution’s transition from college to university status and led efforts related to campus expansion. He also spent two decades on Seton Hall Law School’s Board of Visitors as a founding member and Chairman.
Throughout his career, Dunican has been recognized by legal publications such as Best Lawyers in America and New Jersey and New York Metro Super Lawyers. He has received honors from organizations including the New Jersey Law Journal, NJBIZ, ROI-NJ, and the New Jersey Commission on Professionalism in the Law for his contributions to the profession.
