NEWARK, N.J., Oct. 29, 2026 — Walsh Pizzi O’Reilly LLP is proud to announce that co-founding partner Stephen V. Falanga has accepted a position with the United States Department of Justice as Director of the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) effective November 2, 2026.
Throughout his prestigious career, Steve’s practice has involved representing debtors and creditors in bankruptcy proceedings and handling complex commercial and bankruptcy litigation. He has also served as a chapter 11 trustee in bankruptcy matters on numerous occasions.
The USTP is the component of the Department of Justice responsible for overseeing the administration of bankruptcy cases and private trustees under 28 U.S.C. § 586 and 11 U.S.C. § 101 et seq. Its mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for debtors, creditors, and the public through broad administrative, regulatory, and litigation and enforcement responsibilities.
“We are extremely proud to celebrate Steve’s new role with the Department of Justice,” said Managing Partner Liza M. Walsh. “I have had the privilege of working alongside Steve for more than three decades as colleagues, partners, friends, and co-founders of a firm built on integrity and professionalism, which we know Steve will carry forward into his new role. We congratulate Steve on his appointment and are confident he will add tremendous value to the USTP as its new Director.”