Saul Ewing announced the addition of highly regarded attorney Maria Ellena Chavez-Ruark as a partner in the firm’s bankruptcy and restructuring practice.

Ruark brings to Saul Ewing extensive experience representing debtors, creditors’ committees, secured creditors, unsecured creditors, lessors, purchasers of assets, and trustees in complex bankruptcy and debtor-creditor matters. She also represents receivers and indenture trustees in complex commercial litigation. She was previously a partner in the bankruptcy practice at Tydings & Rosenberg and DLA Piper U.S.

“We are delighted to welcome Maria Ruark to Saul Ewing,” said Mark Minuti, co-chair of the bankruptcy and restructuring practice. “Her practice, experience and energy are perfect complements to our bankruptcy team. Her knowledge and presence will greatly enhance our bankruptcy capabilities in Maryland and the Baltimore region. She is a wonderful addition.”

Ruark was named one of Maryland’s “Top 100 Women in Business” by The Daily Record in 2009 and 2011. She also was honored in 2010 as a “Pro Bono Star” by the Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland. She is active with the Bankruptcy Bar Association for the District of Maryland where she serves as treasurer and on the board of directors. She also is co-chair of the Pro Bono Committee for the Bankruptcy Bar Association for the District of Maryland.