Cullen and Dykman Announces Key Appointment and Partner Promotion in Construction Litigation Practice
July 24, 2025New York, New York - Cullen and Dykman LLP is pleased to announce the appointment of Christopher Ruggiero as head of the firm’s Construction Litigation practice, along with the promotion of Althea W. Harris to Partner, effective September 1, 2025.
Christopher H. Palmer, Managing Partner of Cullen and Dykman, praised the appointments, stating, “Chris Ruggiero’s deep expertise and strategic vision make him the ideal leader to steer our Construction Litigation practice toward continued success. Althea has consistently demonstrated exceptional legal skill and dedication, and her well-earned promotion reinforce our commitment to cultivating top talent. Together, they will continue to elevate the high-quality service we provide to our clients.”
Christopher Ruggiero to Lead Construction Litigation Practice
With nearly a decade of experience at Cullen and Dykman, Christopher E. Ruggiero brings a wealth of knowledge in representing building owners, contractors, and design professionals in complex disputes. His expertise spans construction defects, contract litigation, professional liability, labor law, insurance coverage, environmental torts, and specialized technical cases involving arc flash incidents and electrical system design.
Chris will succeed John Sparling, a valued partner who will be leaving the firm after many years of dedicated service. John’s leadership has been instrumental in building the strength of the Construction Litigation practice, and the firm is confident that Chris will continue this legacy with excellence.
Althea W. Harris Promoted to Partner
Althea W. Harris has been with the firm for over six years, focusing her practice on construction law, insurance coverage and risk transfer, premises and product liability, and general tort litigation. She is admitted to practice in New York and before the U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Althea earned her J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law.
About Cullen and Dykman LLP
Cullen and Dykman LLP is a full-service law firm that clients have trusted to deliver top-tier, cost-effective legal services since 1850. With over 190 attorneys in seven offices located throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, Cullen and Dykman is strategically positioned to meet the changing needs and demands of our clients.