A seasoned litigator, Marisa primarily represents higher education clients in a wide variety of disputes. She practices from Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania via our Link virtual office.
With experience handling almost any case that can arise in the higher education setting, Marisa works on employment issues, tenure disputes and other faculty relations matters, board governance, First Amendment and other civil rights issues, student conduct and affairs—including matters involving Title IX, the Clery Act, and FERPA—and discrimination claims under the ADA, Title VI, and Section 504. She also handles general commercial litigation and premises liability matters as they apply to educational institutions. In addition, Marisa regularly provides policy and compliance guidance to colleges and universities.
Marisa’s background includes extensive work with large state university systems, as well as smaller schools and private institutions. Her practice is primarily focused in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey and while she works mostly at the college and university level, she has also advised on issues involving K-12 schools. Beyond higher education, Marisa also handles real estate litigation, including commercial real estate and lease disputes and quiet title matters.
Marisa’s interest in higher education litigation began early in her career, when she worked as a junior associate during the high-profile Sandusky scandal in Pennsylvania. The complex legal and investigative issues involved convinced her to focus on this area of law. Since then, she has dedicated her practice to litigation within higher education, gaining significant trial experience with nearly 10 jury and bench trials in both state and federal courts.
Known for her intense preparation and her adaptability in the courtroom, Marisa is trusted to make sound decisions and respond effectively when cases take unexpected turns. Clients value her commitment to their matters and recognize her genuine investment in supporting their educational missions.