Genova Burns LLC has announced the appointment of Neil J. Cleary, Esq. as counsel to lead its white-collar crime practice. Cleary will also contribute to the firm's litigation and corporate investigations teams.
Cleary brings over two decades of legal and prosecutorial experience, which positions Genova Burns to provide clients with insights into high-stakes litigation, corporate compliance, and regulatory matters.
Before joining Genova Burns, Cleary was the first assistant prosecutor at the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office. There he managed a team of more than 175 legal and investigative professionals. His responsibilities included handling complex case assignments, working with law enforcement agencies at various levels, and directing internal affairs investigations.
During his tenure at the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Cleary served in key roles such as chief assistant prosecutor and senior assistant prosecutor. He managed post-indictment cases and led the agency's trial unit. Since 2003, he has been certified by the Police Training Commission as an instructor for cadets in criminal law.
Cleary's background includes roles with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and New Jersey Judiciary. He has also taught as an adjunct professor at Berkeley College, demonstrating his commitment to training future leaders in criminal justice.
Cleary earned his law degree from New England Law in Boston where he received the CALI Award for Employment Law. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Rowan University.
James M. Burns, Esq., managing partner of Genova Burns LLC stated: “We are thrilled to welcome Neil to our team at Genova Burns...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.”
With his experience in criminal and regulatory investigations, Cleary is expected to enhance Genova Burns' ability to provide high-quality legal services for clients facing compliance, litigation, and investigation challenges.
Genova Burns LLC is headquartered in Newark and offers services across diverse practice areas including litigation, corporate law, employment law, bankruptcy, government contracts, ethics and compliance. The firm serves a range of clients from local businesses to Fortune 500 companies.
