MoveMakers and NewsMakers for Oct. 27, 2026
See who is making news and moving where in the weekly Missouri Bar update "MoveMakers & NewsMakers."
Kansas City
Spencer Fane LLP is pleased to welcome Sean T. Foley to the firm’s Kansas City, Missouri, office as an Of Counsel attorney in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice Group.
Foley represents companies and individuals navigating high-stakes, complex civil litigation matters, government investigations, and regulatory and compliance issues. As a former Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Missouri, he tried numerous jury trials and managed some of the most complex and high-profile investigations the district faced.
Over the course of nearly eight years as a federal prosecutor, Foley investigated and prosecuted a broad range of matters involving national security and cybersecurity, including domestic and international terrorism, transnational criminal organizations and cartels, export control violations, cybercrime, ransomware, data breaches, money laundering, fraud, cryptocurrency, and tax offenses, among others. He also served as the office’s National Security Cyber Specialist.
Foley notably tried nine jury trials, most recently serving as first chair in the district’s first-ever trial involving a conspiracy to provide material support for acts of violence and use of weapons of mass destruction abroad and participation in an international money laundering conspiracy. His work involved complex investigations with federal law enforcement, including the FBI, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as engagement with state, local, and international law enforcement officials.
“Sean’s federal prosecution experience lends itself to confident, efficient advocacy even when faced with exceptional risks or complexities – a key skill set for success within our litigation team,” said Julia M. Vander Weele, office managing partner for Spencer Fane in Kansas City. “We know he’ll be a powerful collaborator here in KC and across offices and look forward to gaining his unique perspective.”
After completing his bachelor’s degree at Truman State University, Foley earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law, where he served on the Kansas Law Review and was elected Order of the Coif.
Springfield
Spencer Fane LLP is pleased to welcome Rachel A. Riso to the firm’s Springfield, Missouri, office as a partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice Group.
Riso represents individuals, insurance companies, municipalities, public entities, and businesses of all sizes in a broad range of defense matters, working closely with clients to address significant legal, financial, and operational concerns.
Beyond her practice, Riso serves as a Missouri Disciplinary Hearing Officer.
“Rachel’s extensive experience and active involvement in the Springfield legal and business communities complement our growing team,” said Jason C. Smith, office managing partner for Spencer Fane in Springfield. “She is a top-notch litigator who brings a diverse client base and positions us for exciting new opportunities.”
After completing her bachelor’s degree summa cum laude at the University of Northern Iowa, Riso earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law. She is licensed to practice in both Missouri and Kansas.
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