Description of field of expertise

Nexus Sea is a versatile litigator and trial lawyer who advises and defends a wide spectrum of Fortune 500 companies, including clients in the financial services, pharmaceutical, energy, and tech industries. He represents some of the world’s best-known companies in a variety of areas, including multimillion-dollar commercial disputes and class actions, product-liability and mass-tort litigation, and internal investigations.

Companies call on Nexus for his responsive service and goal-focused guidance, trusting him to devise creative solutions, build the right teams, and craft winning strategies that advance their business goals. 

He recently defended a leading medical device manufacturer in a high-profile state attorney general consumer protection action. He also played a prominent role on the court-appointed counsel team to the Securities Investor Protection Act Trustee for the liquidation of Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC.

A veteran of product-liability and mass-tort litigation, Nexus served as a member of the lead national team that defended an international consumer products company against numerous state court consumer product cases involving talcum powder. He also played a key role in defending a Fortune 500 bank and premises owner in hundreds of toxic tort personal injury suits arising from the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Bringing his background in mathematical sciences to bear on the intersection of law and cutting-edge technology, Nexus is currently advising clients on Artificial Intelligence-based risk, including pre-litigation counseling related to the implementation of large language models. 

The Metropolitan Black Bar Association honored Nexus with its prestigious “Private Practitioner of the Year Award” in 2023. He is also a recipient of the National Bar Association’s 2017 “40 Under 40 Nation’s Best Advocates Award,” and has been routinely recognized by Super Lawyers as a “New York Metro Rising Star.”

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

To those embarking on a career in commercial litigation or product liability, know this: with hard work and determination, you are capable of excelling in this field. Like any craft, to excel as a litigator or trial lawyer it requires patience and persistence.

Remember, the practice of law is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to build your skills, gain diverse experiences, and embrace every opportunity to grow—no matter how small it may seem. Each case, deposition, or mentor session adds a layer to your foundation. Equally important is the power of connection. Network widely and learn from others whether senior attorneys, peers, or even clients. 

Collaboration and mentorship—including with those who not share your views—will accelerate your development and enrich your perspective. Stay curious, stay humble, and trust the process. The courtroom is waiting for the confident, prepared, and well-rounded advocate you are becoming.

Final thoughts…

Thank you, National Bar Association Commercial Law Section, for your unwavering commitment to supporting African American attorneys nationwide. Your dedication ensures excellence in our profession, empowering each generation to carry the mantle forward with strength, purpose, and pride. Your impact inspires and uplifts us all.

Description of field of expertise

Guillaume Saliah is a partner in Fasken’s Montreal Business Law Group and practices business law, with extensive experience in M&A, private equity and capital markets. He specializes in national and cross-border transactions in both the public and private markets, advises private and institutional investors, and represents issuers and brokers in relation to equity financings. He also provides regulatory advice on all issues related to the Charter of the French Language in Québec and transparency requirements.

Guillaume works with clients from a variety of industries and sectors such as natural resources, technology, energy, transportation, manufacturing, and services. 

Guillaume commenced his tenure at Fasken as a student in 2012, ascended to the role of Associate in 2015, and was promoted to Partner by early 2023. His contributions to the firm have been manifold since his arrival. Notably, he has mentored articling students within the Montreal Business Law Group and currently serves as the Co-Chair of the Student Recruitment Committee of Fasken’s Montreal office. Furthermore, Guillaume has been instrumental in the formation and growth of the Black Collective within the firm. His passion for sports, mostly acquired as a former offensive lineman, has also translated into active participation in Fasken’s collaboration with the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

In addition to his law practice, Guillaume serves as a member of the board of each of the Centaur Theatre Company and a Community Social Pediatrics Centre. 

Guillaume is an avid supporter of his community and is committed to fostering an environment of excellence, teamwork, and inclusion for all.

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

Start by immersing yourself in a variety of M&A deals, especially those of a smaller scale which will help you take on bigger roles. This foundational work is where you will learn the ins and outs of due diligence, become adept at contract drafting, and sharpen your overall skills. With each transaction you’re involved in, strive to build your confidence and legal acumen. This will set you up to take on more complex and sizeable deals as you move forward. Think of each step as an investment in your career, put yourself in the shoes of your clients as if you were selling or purchasing that business for yourself, steadily equipping you with the knowledge and experience you need to master the demanding world of M&A.

Final Thoughts…

Networking transcends the bounds of business—it’s about forging genuine relationships. Participation in events organized by esteemed organizations such as the NBA and attending their annual conference presents a valuable opportunity for professional engagement, the exchange of innovative concepts, and the development of lasting friendships. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of greeting new participants and reconnecting with familiar faces at this year’s event!