Robinson+Cole Receives 42 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Six National Rankings in Latest Edition of Best Law Firms®

Robinson+Cole received 42 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 27 in the city of Hartford, in the 2024 Edition of Best Law Firms®. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

Robinson+Cole also received six national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and Tier 3 rankings in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Insurance Law, and Labor Law - Management. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2023 Super Lawyers®

A total of 35 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2023. In addition, 27 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Appellate Group chair Linda L. Morkan and Manufacturing Industry Team chair Jeffrey J. White were named to the Top 50: 2023 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda also appears on the Top 25: 2023 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Recognized in 2024 Edition of Benchmark Litigation

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a “highly recommended” firm in Connecticut in the 2024 edition of Benchmark Litigation – “the Definitive Guide to America’s Leading Firm and Attorneys”.

The following Robinson+Cole lawyers earned a litigation star honor: Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Patrick W. Begos,  Joseph L. Clasen, Gerald P. Dwyer Jr., Edward J. Heath, Linda L. Morkan, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, and Jeffrey J. White. This past August, Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda Tobin was also named one of Benchmark Litigation‘s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2023 for the tenth consecutive year. Once again, she was the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut for 2023. In addition, Stephen W. Aronson and Rachel V. Kushel received the “Labor & Employment Star” recognition. Read more in the press release.

Crystal Peralta Accepted into the RI Foundation’s Equity Leadership Initiative 2023/2024 Cohort

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Crystal Peralta was one of just 38 applicants selected to join the Rhode Island Foundation’s Equity Leadership Initiative (ELI) 2023/2024 Cohort. The ELI sets an intentional goal to cultivate, mentor, and seek access for individuals who identify as Black, Hispanic or Latino, Indigenous, Asian, and multiracial from across sectors to build a pipeline of leaders of color in positions of influence in Rhode Island. This one-year leadership program supports leaders of color who are working in the public, private, or nonprofit sectors. Members must demonstrate a commitment to racial equity and social justice. Crystal will participate in the program from now through August of 2024. For more information and to see the full list of 2023/2024 cohort members, click here.

78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024

78 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024. Of the 78 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 57 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law. Approximately, the top 5 percent of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

Additionally, five lawyers were named Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year” in the following offices, in the noted practice areas:

Hartford, CT – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

Jacqueline Pennino Scheib – Trademark Law

Michael R. Enright – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law

Theodore J. Tucci – Insurance Law

Boston, MA – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

Michael S. Giaimo – Land Use and Zoning Law

Stamford, CT – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

Patricia D. Weitzman – Health Care Law and Litigation-Health Care

A Best Lawyers “Lawyer of the Year” designation is awarded to one lawyer in each of various high-profile specialties in large legal communities. These particular lawyers received the highest ratings among their peers for their abilities, professionalism, and integrity.

The fourth edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America was also released, which includes 23 Robinson+Cole lawyers. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys early in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. The firm has the highest number of lawyers to receive this designation in Hartford, Connecticut. Read more in the press release.

Three Attorneys Listed as Rhode Island Super Lawyers® as Rising Stars

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer William M. Daley,  Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Leticia C. Pimentel and Data Priavacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan were recognized as “Rising Stars” in the Rhode Island Super Lawyers® list for 2023. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

Steve Boyajian and Dana Horton Receive 2023 Rhode Island Monthly Professional Excellence in Law Awards

Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group member Steven J. Boyajian and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton were among the lawyers recognized in Rhode Island Monthly’s 2023 Professional Excellence in Law awards. Nominated and chosen by their peers, the honorees “exemplify the leading local lawyers in their respective areas of practice, from general counsel and personal injury to civil litigation and criminal defense.” For the third consecutive year, Steve was recognized in the area of Bankruptcy And Workout and, for the fourth year in a row, Dana is one of four lawyers, and the only woman, recognized in the Insurance practice area. View the complete list of honorees.

Robinson+Cole Continues Growth in Boston with Addition of Insurance Partner Sharon S. Fry

Robinson+Cole announces the addition of Sharon S. Fry as a partner in the firm’s Insurance + Reinsurance Group. Fry focuses her practice on the management and resolution of complex insurance coverage matters, particularly in the financial lines area.

“I am thrilled to welcome Sharon to Robinson+Cole,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “Her talent and experience will bring even more depth to our already strong financial lines insurance team, and will significantly enhance and complement our existing capabilities. Her addition also furthers our strategic plan to grow in large commercial centers and in some of our most high-profile practices.” Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Insurance Group Highlighted in Latest Issue of Connecticut Insurance Law Journal

Robinson+Cole and members of its Insurance + Reinsurance Group are highlighted in the latest edition of the Connecticut Insurance Law Journal titled “Risk and Responsibility: Insurance and the University of Connecticut School of Law.” Published by the University of Connecticut School of Law (UConn Law), Volume 28, Issue 2 of the Journal traces the development of UConn Law’s Insurance Law Center (ILC) and the connections it has had over the last 100 years with the substantive development of insurance law. The feature piece, co-authored by Tim Fisher, himself an R+C alum and former Dean of UConn Law (2013-2020), highlights the contributions of former and current Robinson+Cole partners and associates including Kip Dwyer, Dan Sullivan, Greg Ligelis, Dick Tomeo and Stephani Roman. Numerous Robinson+Cole lawyers have served and still serve on the faculty of Insurance Law Center. According to its website, the Connecticut Insurance Law Journal is the world’s only academic law review dedicated exclusively to the publication of original research on the law relating to insurance, risk and responsibility. Read the full article.

Robinson+Cole Receives 43 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 43 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 30 in the city of Hartford, in the 2023 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

Robinson+Cole also received four national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and a Tier 3 ranking in Labor Law - Management. Read more in the press release. 

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

A total of 39 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2022. In addition, 30 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Jeffrey J. White was named to the Top 50: 2022 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2022 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list and, similarly, Natalie D. Ramsey was included in the Top 50: 2022 Women Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Recognized by Benchmark Litigation

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a “highly recommended” firm in Connecticut in the 2023 edition of Benchmark Litigation – an industry guide to the world's leading litigation law firms and lawyers. The firm also received a “recommended” ranking in the area of labor & employment.

The following Robinson+Cole lawyers earned a litigation star honor: Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Patrick W. Begos,  Joseph L. Clasen, Gerald P. Dwyer Jr., Edward J. Heath, Linda L. Morkan, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, James A. Wade and Jeffrey J. White. This past August, Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda Tobin was also named one of Benchmark Litigation‘s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2022 for the ninth consecutive year. She was the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut for 2022. In addition, Stephen W. Aronson and Rachel V. Kushel received the “Labor & Employment Star” recognition in the fifth edition of Benchmark Labor & Employment. Read more in the press release.

J. Tyler Butts Is Honored at CBA Young Lawyers Section Annual Retreat

Congratulations to J. Tyler Butts, a member of the Insurance + Reinsurance Group and the firm’s Litigation Section, who was recognized with a Leadership Award at the Connecticut Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section (YLS) leadership retreat on August 12-13 in Ledyard, Connecticut. The annual event is intended to familiarize new members of the Executive Committee with the duties of their leadership roles and to present awards to members of the committee for their service during the previous year. As a member of the Executive Committee, Tyler earned a Leadership Award for organizing several CLE and non-CLE events, including a revamped YLS pro bono outing, during the 2021-2022 bar year.

Stephani Roman Accepted to DRI’s Diverse Rainmaker Mentoring Program

Congratulations to Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Stephani A. Roman, who has been selected to participate in the inaugural class of DRI’s Diverse Rainmaker Mentoring Program. The program is designed for high-potential, early-career civil defense attorneys who are members of DRI and are from historically underrepresented groups. The goal of the program is to provide mentees with practical tools for developing and leveraging relationship-building skills applicable to law firm practice. Stephani joined R+C in 2019 after working for six years as a claims adjuster in the insurance industry. Her practice involves the representation of domestic and foreign D&O and E&O insurers in coverage matters. The DRI Mentoring Program term runs through August 31, 2023.

74 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America 2023

74 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2023. Of the 74 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 54 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law insurance law and construction litigation. Only the top 5.3 percent of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 29th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

Additionally, the following five lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2023 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Brian R. Smith in Land Use and Zoning Law, Christine E. Bromberg in Tax Law, James P. Ray in Litigation – Environmental, Joey Lee Miranda in Energy Regulatory Law, Norman H. Roos in Banking and Finance Law, Rachel V. Kushel in Employment Law – Management, Theodore J. Tucci in  Health Care Law and Virginia E. McGarrity – in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law.

The third edition of Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” was also released, includes 23 Robinson+Cole lawyers. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys early in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. The firm has the highest number of lawyers to receive this designation in Hartford, Connecticut. Read more in the press release.

Rhonda Tobin Named to Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 9th Consecutive Year

Robinson+Cole Managing Partner and past Litigation Section Co-chair Rhonda J. Tobin has been named one of Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2022. Published on August 4, 2022, the guide focuses on the leading Top 250 female litigators from across the US who have earned their place by participating in some of the most impactful litigation matters in recent history, as well as by earning the hard-won respect of their peers and clients as top players in their respective fields. Tobin is the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut. This is the ninth consecutive year she has received the distinction. Read more in the press release.

John McCarrick Quoted in Law360 Article on Elon Musk-Twitter Dispute

Insurance + Reinsurance Group member John McCarrick was quoted extensively in the article “Musk-Twitter Feud Likely To Ignite Coverage Disputes,” published by Law360 on July 29, 2022. The article focuses on the insurance industry’s keen interest in the legal battle between Twitter and entrepreneur Elon Musk, founder of both Tesla and SpaceX, who has refused to complete his proposed $44 billion deal, first made in April, to purchase the social media platform. The article says the highly-charged dispute, Twitter v. Elon Musk in Delaware Court of Chancery (the Court), is likely to feature focus from both sides on Directors and Officers Liability coverage.

As questions of Musk’s insurability persist, McCarrick points out that Musk scored a win in a shareholder case in the Court in May, allowing it to go to trial and successfully defending against charges that he breached his fiduciary duties to Tesla in an earlier acquisition of SolarCity.

"Although the common view is that Musk is reckless and foolhardy by inviting a Delaware court battle with Twitter, maybe he's not so reckless," said McCarrick, who represents insurance carriers. "In fact, in the SolarCity case, one could wonder how it felt for the rest of the board to pay using D&O insurance, a high eight-figure settlement in a case that was later won at trial by the main defendant."

McCarrick also weighs in on the possibility that Twitter might have more follow-on exposure than Musk, who has charged that the company deliberately understated its number of “spam bots” or fake accounts at five percent, which is an important factor in the action that could pose a big problem for Twitter if the company didn't have a reasonable basis for the estimate. Twitter could face pressure both from shareholder suits that would require it to look for insurance coverage as well as increased scrutiny from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). “My guess is that the SEC is looking closely at this because if it concludes, from what becomes public at the trial, that Twitter was not being fully transparent in its SEC filings, they they’ve got an SEC issue too,” he said. Read the article here.

Julia Fountain, Jeffrey Renaud and Emily Zaklukiewicz Appointed to CBA Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Julia F. Fountain and Jeffrey E. Renaud and Labor and Employment Group lawyer Emily A. Zaklukiewicz have been appointed to serve on the Connecticut Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS) Executive Committee for the 2022-2023 bar year. Julia will serve as co-chair of the Litigation Committee, Jeffrey will serve as co-chair of the CBA-YLS Insurance Law Committee, and Emily has been reappointed to serve as co-chair of the Women in the Law Committee.

The primary goals of the YLS are the promotion of justice, the encouragement of public service, and the promotion of diversity and education of young lawyers and newly admitted practitioners. The Section serves a valuable social and networking role in fostering connections among young lawyers and assisting them in their transition into the legal practice in Connecticut. It includes all members of the CBA who are 37 years of age or younger or who have been admitted to the Bar for less than six full bar years.

Dana Horton Reappointed to Rhode Island Bar Association Leadership Positions

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana Horton has been reappointed to serve as a member of the Rhode Island Bar Association’s (RIBA) House of Delegates and was re-elected to a fourth term to the RIBA Executive Committee. The Executive Committee meets monthly and the House of Delegates, which includes 80 elected delegates, meets quarterly to oversee the administration of the RIBA’s affairs. Dana has served as a member of the RIBA House of Delegates since 2009.

Max Daley Recognized by Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”

Robinson+Cole Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer William M. Daley was named an Up & Coming Lawyer by Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly as part of the publication’s 2022 Excellence in the Law Awards. Max was profiled in a special issue of the publication and celebrated during a ceremony on June 7, 2022. The recognition is described as an honor saluting “the rising stars of the Rhode Island Bar” who “have been practicing and admitted to the RI Bar for 10 years or less yet, have already distinguished themselves in the practice of law.”

Steve Boyajian and Dana Horton Receive 2022 Rhode Island Monthly Professional Excellence in Law Awards

Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group member Steven J. Boyajian and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton were among the lawyers recognized in Rhode Island Monthly’s 2022 Professional Excellence in Law awards. Nominated and chosen by their peers, the honorees “exemplify the leading local lawyers in their respective areas of practice, from general counsel and personal injury to civil litigation and criminal defense.” For the second consecutive year, Steve was recognized in the area of Bankruptcy And Workout and, for the third year in a row, Dana is one of five lawyers, and the only woman, recognized in the Insurance practice area. View the complete list of honorees.

Robinson+Cole Continues Growth in Boston with the Addition of Partners in Health Care and Insurance

Robinson+Cole announces the addition of Kathleen G. Healy in its Health Law Group and Health Care Industry Team, and Matthew M. Burke in the firm’s Insurance + Reinsurance Group. Healy joins from Verrill Dana LLP and Burke joins from Robins Kaplan LLP. Both are partners resident in Robinson+Cole’s Boston office.

“We are excited to welcome Kate and Matt to Robinson+Cole,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “They are talented and successful lawyers who bring significant experience, expertise and depth to some of our most strategic practices. They are natural fits for our strong health care and insurance teams. Adding Kate and Matt furthers our strategic plan by continuing our growth in large commercial centers and in some of our most high-profile practices.” Read more in the press release and in articles published in the Boston Business Journal and Law360.

Rhode Island Bar Association Spotlights Dana Horton in Diversity & Inclusion Newsletter

Dana Horton, a member of the firm’s Insurance + Reinsurance Group and an active member of our Diversity, Equity + Inclusion (DE+I) Committee and Wellness Committee, which she chaired for many years, is profiled in the Rhode Island Bar Association's latest “Diversity & Inclusion Newsletter.” The purpose of the quarterly publication, distributed to all Rhode RIBA members, is “to better educate members of the Bar on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession…and to share relevant information about diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.”

Dana is spotlighted in the recurring “Rhode Island Bar Association Leaders” section of the newsletter. She talks about what diversity and inclusion means to her personally as well as professionally in the workplace, noting that “diversity, equity and inclusion spawn creativity and growth – we need alternative perspectives, varying ideas and cross-sectional experiences for completeness.” She also offers her thoughts on what the Bar can do to raise awareness of diversity and inclusion, recalling a quote heard at a recent DE+I event in Connecticut, “which made an immense impact on me: ‘We need to embrace our differences and simultaneously find our common ground.’” Dana is an active member of the Rhode Island Women’s Bar Association and has served as a mentor to law students at Roger Williams University. She also is a strong mentor for lawyers within Robinson+Cole and new lawyers within the State. Dana currently serves as a member of RIBA’s Executive Committee and chair of its Annual Meeting Planning Committee, and is a past chair of its Superior Court Bench/Bar Committee. Read the full interview here.

Robinson+Cole Receives 40 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 40 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 28 in the city of Hartford, in the 2022 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

Robinson+Cole also received four national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and a Tier 3 ranking in Labor Law - Management. Read more in the press release. 

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 42 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2021. In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Bruce B. Barth and Jeffrey J. White were named to the Top 50: 2021 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2021 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list and, similarly, Natalie D. Ramsey was included in the Top 50: 2021 Women Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

John McCarrick Quoted in Law360 Insurance Authority Article on Insurance Coverage Disputes and SPAC Transactions

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer John F. McCarrick was quoted extensively in the article “SPAC Boom Begets A New Breed Of Insurance Coverage Spat” published in Law360 Insurance Authority on September 1, 2021. The article focuses on the risks and insurance coverage considerations faced by companies formed via special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs), which raise funds to make an initial public offering before purchasing a private target company. “Also called blank-check companies, SPACs are required to obtain a target and merge within two years or return investors' money.” The article references a recent lawsuit filed by Alta Mesa Resources (AMR) seeking coverage for claims that a defunct energy company's former executives caused it to collapse to suggest that a precedent could be set for insurance disputes involving other ventures that, like AMR, were created through increasingly popular SPACs. John said the “case could be a good litmus test to determine if D&O policies are currently structured to actually address the liabilities that may arise when deSPACs are created. He also said the case will demonstrate if the prior acts exclusion represents the right approach for insurers to bar coverage.” Subscribers can read the article.

65 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022

65 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022. Of the 65 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 49 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law.

Additionally, the following five lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Patrick M. Birney in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Michael F. Maglio in Banking and Finance Law, Robert S. Melvin in Environmental Law, Joey Lee Miranda in Energy Law and Jacqueline Pennino Scheib in Trademark Law. Peter V. Lacouture was also named a Best Lawyers® 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Providence, Rhode Island in the area of Energy Law.

The second edition of Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” was also released, of which 17 total Robinson+Cole lawyers are listed in. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Among Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation

Robinson+Cole Managing Partner and past Litigation Section Co-chair Rhonda J. Tobin has been named one of Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2021. Published on August 5, 2021, the guide focuses on the leading Top 250 female litigators from across the US who have earned their place by participating in some of the most impactful litigation matters in recent history, as well as by earning the hard-won respect of their peers and clients as top players in their respective fields. Tobin is the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut. This is the eighth consecutive year she has received the distinction. Read more in the press release.

Audrey Goldman and Gabrielle Mercadante Author Follow-up FDLA Article on COVID-19 Business Interruption Claims

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Audrey E. Goldman and Gabrielle R. Mercadante authored the article “At the Crossroads of COVID-19 and Business Interruption Claims: A Florida Update” published in Volume 40, No. 2 of Trial Advocate, the professional journal of the Florida Defense Lawyers Association (FDLA). The article is a follow-up to an earlier one on the same topic of business interruption insurance coverage published last winter, which was especially timely given the impact of COVID-19 health restrictions on many businesses and uncertainty as to whether there is coverage for their losses. At that time, there was a great deal of litigation taking place nationwide to determine whether coverage exists under their policies. In this piece, Audrey and Gabrielle offer an update referencing Florida federal court decisions from the past year, holding that COVID-19-related losses are not covered under commercial property insurance policies. While policies differ in the specific provisions and exclusions they contain, for the most part, federal courts in Florida have ruled in favor of carriers in finding that there is no coverage for business interruption claims. Trial Advocate is circulated to FDLA members, all Florida judges, and industry professionals statewide and is published by Westlaw as a legal resource. Read the article.

Dan Bryer Admitted to Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Daniel E. Bryer has been admitted to the Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel (FDCC), an organization dedicated to promoting knowledge, fellowship, and professionalism of its members as they pursue the course of a balanced justice system and represent those in need of a defense in civil lawsuits. The FDCC is composed of recognized leaders in the legal community who have achieved professional distinction and membership is limited to approximately 1,200 lawyers internationally. The rigorous vetting process for admission involves outreach to judges, mediators, opposing counsel and clients to inquire not only about a nominee’s skill as a counselor and advocate, but also the nominee’s collegiality and strength of character. Read more about the FDCC.

Steve Boyajian and Dana Horton Reappointed to Rhode Island Bar Association Leadership Positions

Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group member Steven J. Boyajian and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton have been reappointed to serve as members of the Rhode Island Bar Association’s (RIBA) House of Delegates. In addition, Dana was re-elected to a third term to the RIBA Executive Committee. The Executive Committee meets monthly and the House of Delegates, which includes eighty elected delegates, meets quarterly to oversee the administration of the RIBA’s affairs. Steve has served as a member of the RIBA House of Delegates since 2013 and Dana since 2009.

Jess Hamilton and Linda Morkan Author Articles Published in ABA TIPS Spring Newsletter

Insurance + Reinsurance Group member Jessica A. Hamilton and Appellate Practice Group Chair Linda L. Morkan each authored articles published in the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section (TIPS)  Appellate Advocacy Committee Spring 2021 newsletter. Jess’ piece, titled “Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Appellate Legacy,” examines the late United States Supreme Court Justice’s role in a series of landmark opinions before the Supreme Court as an appellate advocate and champion of gender equity. Linda’s article, “Video Calls and Video Hearings Primer," offers some tips on effectively engaging with colleagues, clients, opposing counsel and even judges on virtual platforms. Linda serves as the Committee’s Membership Vice-Chair and Jess is the Technology Vice-Chair of the TIPS Property Insurance Law General Committee. Read the articles.

Steve Boyajian and Dana Horton Receive Rhode Island Monthly Professional Excellence in Law Awards

Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group member Steven J. Boyajian and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton were among the lawyers recognized in Rhode Island Monthly’s 2021 Professional Excellence in Law awards. Nominated and chosen by their peers, the honorees “exemplify the leading local lawyers in their respective areas of practice, from general counsel and personal injury to civil litigation and criminal defense.” Steve was recognized in the area of Bankruptcy And Workout and, for the second consecutive year, Dana is one of four lawyers, and the only woman, recognized in the Insurance practice area. View the complete list of honorees.

Connecticut Law Tribune Honors Seven Robinson+Cole Lawyers During Connecticut Legal Awards

The Connecticut Law Tribune recognized Robinson+Cole lawyers Stephen E. Goldman, Lina M. Morkan, John B. Lynch, Jr., Gregory J. Bennici, Conor O. Duffy, Emilee Mooney Scott, and Jennifer L. Shanley during the publication’s annual Connecticut Legal Awards on May 12, 2021. Hosted virtually, the awards honor those attorneys and judges who have made a remarkable difference in the legal profession in Connecticut - whether in shaping the law, achieving outsized results for their clients, being an outstanding jurist or assisting those in need of legal services.

Steve was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a lawyer “who has left a lasting imprint on the legal community of Connecticut.” Linda received the Distinguished Leader Award for achieving “impressive results in 2020 and demonstrating clear leadership skills that helped achieve those results.” John was honored as a finalist for the Diversity Initiative Award. A new recognition to the awards slate, the distinction honors a lawyer or firm who has made a significant contribution to diversity and inclusion efforts in Connecticut’s legal community. Greg, Conor, Emilee and Jen were all recognized as “New Leaders in the Law,” a distinction that spotlights lawyers under the age of 40 who have excelled in the courtroom, in client service and cultivation, in service to bar associations, and in performing pro bono work or community service in a volunteer capacity. View the complete list of honorees.

Dana Horton and Kathryn Rattigan Selected for Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly 2021 Excellence in the Law Recognitions

Robinson+Cole Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan were selected by Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly for recognitions presented as part of the publication’s 2021 Excellence in the Law Awards. The honorees were each profiled in a special issue of the publication and celebrated during a virtual ceremony on April 8, 2021.

Dana was recognized as a Leader in the Law, which honors the current leaders of the bar, drawn from across the spectrum of the legal profession. Kathryn was named an Up & Coming Lawyer. An honor saluting “the rising stars of the Rhode Island Bar” who “have been practicing and admitted to the RI Bar for 10 years or less yet, have already distinguished themselves in the practice of law.” Read more in the press release. 

Dana Horton and Kathryn Rattigan Profiled in Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly Excellence in the Law 2021 Special Section

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan were profiled in a special section of Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly commemorating the publication’s 2021 Excellence in the Law honorees. Dana appears in the Leaders in the Law section, which honors the current leaders of the bar, drawn from across the spectrum of the legal profession. Kathryn is featured in the Up & Coming Lawyers section. An honor saluting “the rising stars of the Rhode Island Bar” who “have been practicing and admitted to the RI Bar for 10 years or less yet, have already distinguished themselves in the practice of law.” View the special section.

The winners will be recognized during a special online ceremony on April 8.

Rhonda Tobin Named an “Insurance Law Trailblazer” by the National Law Journal

Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda J. Tobin is among those recognized in the 2021 Insurance Law Trailblazers list. Published in a special supplement of the National Law Journal, the inaugural list spotlights professionals who are agents of change in the area of insurance law. Read more in the press release. 

Phyllis Ingram and Sedgwick Jeanite Author Article on ESG Considerations for Corporations, D&O insurers

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Phyllis A. Ingram and Sedgwick M. Jeanite authored the article “Perspectives: Environmental, social and governance considerations for corporations, D&O insurers” published in Business Insurance on February 16, 2021. The article covers the growing shareholder interest in environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues and how investors are increasingly considering ESG initiatives along with more traditional financial considerations in their investment decision-making process. Corporations have responded by making voluntary corporate ESG disclosures resulting in greater scrutiny of public ESG commitment disclosures as investors seek to hold corporations and their directors and officers accountable when corporate policies and practices fall short of stated objectives. Phyllis and Sedgwick observe that “corporations and their directors and officers liability insurers should therefore be mindful of a corporation’s potential susceptibility to ESG risk in today’s D&O marketplace.” Read the article. 

Audrey Goldman and Gabrielle Mercadante Author FDLA Article on COVID-19 Business Interruption

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Audrey E. Goldman and Gabrielle R. Mercadante authored the article “At the Crossroads of Covid-19 and Business Interruption Claims” published in Volume 39, No. 3 of Trial Advocate, the professional journal of the Florida Defense Lawyers Association (FDLA). The article examines business interruption insurance coverage, which has been a significant topic during the COVID-19 pandemic as many businesses have been impacted by health restrictions and are uncertain as to whether there is coverage for their losses. Despite the fact that most commercial insurance policies do not provide business interruption coverage, there is a great deal of litigation taking place nationwide to determine whether coverage exists in their policies. Audrey and Gabrielle provide an overview of business interruption insurance, current coverage litigation, and potential legislative and regulatory action. Trial Advocate is circulated to FDLA members, all Florida judges, industry professionals statewide and is published by Westlaw as a legal resource. Read the full article.

Rhonda Tobin Named to Business Insurance’s 2020 “Women to Watch” Class

Litigation Section co-chair and Managing Committee member Rhonda J. Tobin was selected by Business Insurance for inclusion in its 2020 “Women to Watch” recognition, which showcases an outstanding group of female executives in the insurance and risk management sector.

Now in its 15th year, the awards honor 50 women annually from around the globe who have been selected through a rigorous nomination process focusing on expertise, leadership qualities and achievements. Ms. Tobin was chosen from hundreds of nominations to be featured in a winner profile published in the December issue of Business Insurance, along with recognition during the publication’s virtual Women to Watch Conference and Awards Ceremony on December 10, 2020. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of Steven J. Boyajian, J. Tyler Butts, Ryan V. Leichsenring, Krista L. Patterson, Jonathan H. Schaefer, Emilee Mooney Scott, Jonathan E. Small, Anthony J. Vogel and Abby M. Warren as partner as well as the promotion of Katherine M. Fix, and Kathryn M. Rattigan to counsel, effective January 1, 2021.

“All of these lawyers have been extraordinarily strong contributors to our firm and it is wonderful to be able to recognize their achievements and be a part of the continuing growth of their careers,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “Congratulations to this outstanding group of lawyers and future leaders on their well-deserved promotions.” Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 36 first-tier metropolitan rankings and four national rankings in the 2021 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” The national rankings are in the areas of Information Technology Law, Labor Law - Management, Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Continues to Expand Presence in New York With Eight Member Financial Lines Team

Robinson+Cole announces the expansion of its New York office with the addition of two partners, John F. McCarrick and Erica J. Kerstein, as well as two counsel, Phyllis A. Ingram and Sedgwick M. Jeanite, and four associates, Meryl E. Breeden, Joseph A. Finelli, Dmitriy Gelfand and Andrew G. Lipton. The group has an industry-leading national practice that concentrates on the financial lines sector of the insurance industry, which includes directors and officers liability (D&O), errors and omissions, and representation and warranty insurance. Read more in the press release.

Three Lawyers From Robinson+Cole’s New York Office Recognized by Super Lawyers®

Robinson+Cole lawyers Lawrence Klein and Virginia K. Trunkes were named to the New York Metro Super Lawyers® list for 2020. In addition, Ian T. Clarke-Fisher was recognized as a “Rising Star.” They are joined by 47 Robinson+Cole lawyers named Super Lawyers® and 29 recognized as “Rising Stars” in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2020. Read more in the press release.

47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

A total of 47 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island for 2020. In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Also, Bruce B. Barth was named to the Top 50: 2020 Connecticut Super Lawyers list and Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2020 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list.

The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Recognized in Benchmark Litigation

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a “highly recommended” firm in Connecticut in the 2021 edition of Benchmark Litigation – the definitive guide to the world's leading litigation law firms and lawyers. The firm also received a “recommended” ranking in the area of labor & employment.

The following Robinson+Cole lawyers earned the “Local Litigation Stars” honor: Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Patrick W. Begos,  Joseph L. Clasen, Gerald P. Dwyer Jr., Edward J. Heath, Linda L. Morkan, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, and James A. Wade. This past August, Ms. Tobin was also named one of Benchmark Litigation's Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2020 for the sixth consecutive year. She was also the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut for 2020. In addition, Stephen W. Aronson, Rachel V. Kushel and Matthew T. Miklave, received the “Labor & Employment Star – Northeast” recognition from the third edition of Benchmark Labor & Employment. Read more in the press release.

J. Tyler Butts Elected Treasurer of Connecticut Bar Assoc. Insurance Law Section

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts has been elected to serve as the Treasurer of the Connecticut Bar Association’s (CBA) Insurance Law Section for the 2020-2021 term. Tyler previously served as co-chair of the Section’s Education Committee. Created to meet the professional needs of CBA members who practice in all areas of insurance law, the Insurance Law Section brings together practitioners from a variety of disciplines including litigators (representing both insurers and policyholders), insurance regulatory attorneys, and in-house counsel. The section serves as a forum in which practitioners can exchange information on a variety of topics related to insurance law including, but not limited to life insurance, insurance coverage issues, property & casualty insurance, health and disability insurance, and insurance regulation.

61 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021

61 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021. Of the 61 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 46 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law.

Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2021 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Michael R. Enright in Litigation – Bankruptcy, Gregory R. Faulkner in Litigation – Construction, Virginia E. McGarrity in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Joey Lee Miranda in Environmental Law, James P. Ray in Litigation – Environmental and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law. Michael S. Giaimo was also named a Best Lawyers® 2021 “Lawyer of the Year” in Boston, Massachusetts, in the area of Land Use and Zoning Law.

The inaugural edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch was also released, of which 17 total Robinson+Cole lawyers are listed in. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. Read more in the press release.

Dana Horton Receives Rhode Island Monthly Professional Excellence in Law Award

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton was among the lawyers recognized in Rhode Island Monthly’s 2020 Professional Excellence in Law awards. Nominated and chosen by their peers, the honorees “exemplify the leading local lawyers in their respective areas of practice, from general counsel and personal injury to civil litigation and criminal defense.” Dana is one of four lawyers, and the only woman, recognized in the Insurance practice area. View the complete list of honorees.

Sharone Kornman Is Interviewed in TV Newscast on the 75th Anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation

Insurance + Reinsurance Group member Sharone Kornman was interviewed in the NBC30 story "Holocaust Survivors, Loved Ones Commemorate Auschwitz Liberation," which ran as part of the station's 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts on January 27, 2020. The story aired in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp. Sharone is a founding member and Secretary of Voices of Hope, a nonprofit organization created by descendants of Holocaust survivors that is dedicated to preserving their families' stories and educating about genocide. (R+C did pro bono work for incorporating Voices of Hope.) You can view the story here.

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partner and Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of Taylor A. Shea as partner and the promotion of Nathaniel T. Arden, Jonathan H. Schaefer, Cara C. Vecchione, and Anna Jinhua Wang to counsel, effective January 1, 2020. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Receives 33 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 33 first-tier metropolitan rankings and four national rankings in the 2020 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” The national rankings are in the areas of Information Technology Law, Labor Law - Management , Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Read more in the press release.

52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 52 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2019. In addition, 32 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

The following lawyers were named to the Top 50: 2019 Connecticut Super Lawyers list: Denis C. Cavanaugh, Gregory R. Faulkner, Linda L. Morkan, Todd R. Regan, and Jeffrey J. White. Linda also appears on the Top 25: 2019 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list.

The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. Read more in the press release.

Denis O’Malley Authors Insurance & Risk Management Article on Unambiguous Policy Language

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Denis J. O’Malley authored the article “The Southern District Finds Unambiguous Policy Language Controls NYU’s Superstorm Sandy Claim,” published in the October issue of Insurance & Risk Management, a quarterly newsletter from the Society of Financial Service Professionals. The article, republished from Robinson+Cole’s Property Insurance Coverage Insights blog, covers the March 2019 decision from the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York granting an insurer’s motion for summary judgment in a case arising from Superstorm Sandy based on unambiguous policy language providing a significantly lower limit of liability for losses resulting from flood damage. “The decision demonstrates how unambiguous policy language may literally make a billion dollar difference in coverage.” Read the full article.

Robinson+Cole Recognized by Benchmark Litigation

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a “highly recommended” firm in Connecticut in the 2019 edition of Benchmark Litigation. The firm also received a “recommended” ranking in the area of labor & employment.

The following Robinson+Cole lawyers earned the “Local Litigation Stars” honor: Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Patrick W. Begos,  Joseph L. Clasen, Gerald P. Dwyer Jr., Edward J. Heath, Linda L. Morkan, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, and James A. Wade. This past August, Ms. Tobin was also named one of Benchmark Litigation‘s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2019 for the fifth consecutive year. She was also the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut for 2019. In addition, Stephen W. Aronson received the “Labor & Employment Star – Northeast” recognition from the second edition of Benchmark Labor & Employment. Read more in the press release.

Greg Varga Authors Article on Anti-Concurrent Causation Clause Published in The Brief

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Gregory P. Varga recently authored the article “When Wind and Flood Unite – The Anti-Concurrent Causation Clause,” published in the Summer 2019 issue of The Brief, a publication of the American Bar Association Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (ABA TIPS). The article covers the evolution of the anti-concurrent causation (ACC) clause in a typical property insurance policy. Greg then examines how the interpretation and application of the ACC clause have evolved in litigation arising from hurricanes and other natural disasters. He also offers insight on what may lie ahead as coverage lawsuits arise from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. The full article will be available to ABA TIPS members on the section’s website. 

Dana Horton Authors Chapter in Rhode Island Discovery and Depositions Guide

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton wrote the chapter “Discovery from Out of State and Foreign Nonparty Witnesses” in the recently published two-volume set A Practical Guide to Discovery and Depositions in Rhode Island. The 33-chapter manual is described as a go-to resource for experienced litigators and beginning lawyers alike for creating a discovery plan, drafting effective interrogatories and requests for production, conducting depositions, and taking on other challenges in modern-day discovery practice. Both the complete, updated 2019 guide as well as individual chapters - including downloadable, individual checklists and forms - are available for purchase here. 

57 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

57 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020. Of the 57 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 44 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law, insurance law, and litigation-construction.

Additionally, the following four lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Thomas P. Cody in Real Estate Law, Michael R. Enright in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, John B. Lynch Jr. in Mergers and Acquisitions Law, and Theodore J. Tucci in Insurance Law. Kathleen M. Porter was also named a Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in Boston, Massachusetts, in the area of Information Technology Law. Read more in the press release.

Rhonda Tobin Among Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation

Litigation Section Co-chair Rhonda J. Tobin has been named one of Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2019. In this national list published on August 1, 2019, Ms. Tobin is the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut. This is the fifth consecutive year she has received the distinction. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole achieves favorable decision for our client Sentinel Insurance Co. Ltd., a Hartford Insurance company

R+C was pleased to assist our client Sentinel Insurance Co. Ltd., a Hartford Insurance company, in achieving a favorable decision in the New York Appellate Division, First Department, and subsequently defending that appellate outcome in the trial court. Read the article here.

Dan Sullivan and Dana Horton Present at Connecticut Fire Academy

Dan Sullivan and Dana Horton presented “A Defense Attorney’s Perspective for the Fire Investigator” as part of the Connecticut Fire Academy’s 24th Annual Advanced Fire Investigation School on May 1, 2019.  The Connecticut Fire Academy, located in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, is a training facility operated under the guidance and administration of the Connecticut Commission on Fire Prevention and Control. The Advanced Fire Investigation School is a multi-week program sponsored by the Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit  in cooperation with the Connecticut Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators. The School focuses on various aspects of fire investigation and litigation associated with those investigations. Dan and Dana presented to a large class of state and local fire marshals and shared their experience with the cross-examination of experts, discussed various grounds on which expert opinions are challenged, and offered advice for preparation and testimony in a fire case.

J. Tyler Butts and Ray DeMeo Take Part in ALI’s Restatement of Law Liability Insurance Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Ray DeMeo was a panelist at the American Law Institute’s Restatement of Law Liability Insurance conference, The World Turned Upside Down, at the UConn Law School in Hartford, Connecticut on April 5, 2019. Ray spoke as part of a panel  entitled “Plain Meaning and Ambiguity in Insurance Contracts.” In his role as an education director on the Connecticut Bar Association’s Insurance Law Section board, Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts helped design the CLE-eligible event and assisted in organizing the panel on which Ray spoke.

The American Law Institute adopted its Restatement of the Law, Liability Insurance in May 2018 after years of study, debate and controversy. It remains a work in progress, however, as lawyers and courts consider whether to utilize and adopt Restatement positions, while its opponents continue to lobby against it with regulators as well as in state legislatures and the courts. The conference brought together academics and practicing lawyers who have worked on the Restatement to discuss and debate these issues.

Tyler Butts Co-Presents National Webinar on Handling Difficult Contractors

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts co-presented a webinar entitled “Dealing With Difficult Contractors” on March 14, 2019. The program was sponsored by the Property and Liability Resource Bureau as part of its On-The-Go Training series and attracted more than 800 participants. 

From hurricanes and hailstorms to widespread fires and unprecedented rains and flooding, disastrous events are likely to attract policyholders’ contractors eager to “assist” with recovery. Oftentimes, however, contractors can hinder the process more than they help. The webinar focused on identifying and working with unreasonable or challenging contractors that an adjuster might encounter during the adjustment of a claim. Tyler’s presentation offered practical tips and tricks to make the adjustment process run more smoothly when working with difficult contractors. 

Participants learned to identify the various ways in which a difficult contractor may stand as an impediment to resolving a claim, and discussed adjustment and negotiation strategies to use with difficult contractors to make an adjustment run smoother, including: how to evaluate the law governing assignment of benefits in various jurisdictions; how to work with a contractor holding an assignment of benefits; how to communicate with a difficult contractor throughout the course of a claim; how to push back on a contractor’s inflated or unsubstantiated estimates; and how to document a claim file where a difficult contractor is involved.
 

Dan Bryer Presents on the Opioid Crisis at the 2019 CLM Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Daniel Bryer was a co-presenter on “The Opioid Epidemic: Trending Insurance Coverage Issues” at the 2019 Claims and Litigation Management (CLM) Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida on Friday, March 15, 2019. Robinson+Cole lawyers Jason DePatie and Rhonda Tobin also attended the conference. 

The presentation outlined the factual allegations asserted in more than 2,000 opioid-related lawsuits nationwide and analyzed insurance coverage issues presented by those cases. Specifically, the panel discussed cases analyzing whether the lawsuits implicate “bodily injury” coverage, assert an “occurrence”, and implicate any exclusions. The presentation highlighted Dan’s experience investigating and litigating complex insurance coverage issues. The panel also included the perspectives of a financial services litigation adjustor, a board-certified pharmacist and clinical pharmacy manager, and an insurance coverage litigator whose practice focuses on coverage for healthcare providers ranging from hospitals to small practices and individual doctors. 

CLM is dedicated to meeting the professional development needs of the claims and litigation management industries. The annual industry event attracts some 2,000 participants and features more than 100 collaborative educational sessions as well as networking events. 
 

Greg Varga Elected a Fellow of American College of Coverage Counsel

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Gregory P. Varga has been elected a Fellow of the American College of Coverage Counsel (College). The College is a prestigious international organization of approximately 300 preeminent lawyers who specialize in the fields of insurance coverage counseling and litigation and extracontractual liability litigation. Fellows are drawn from the policyholder and defense bars, as well as academia. 

The mission of the College is to advance the creative, ethical and efficient resolution of insurance coverage and extracontractual disputes; to enhance the civility and quality of the practice of insurance law; to provide peer-reviewed scholarship; and to improve the relationships among the members of the legal profession. The College focuses on educating all sectors involved in the field of insurance law – including the judiciary, legal and insurance professionals, law students and businesses – on cutting edge, emerging, and critical issues such as developing trends in insurance law and bad faith, trial practice and alternative dispute resolution, policy formation and claims handling. 

Before being elected a Fellow of the College, a lawyer undergoes an extensive vetting and peer review process that examines the lawyer’s character, skill and knowledge. Steve Goldman and Rhonda Tobin are also Fellows of the College.

Tyler Butts Participates in CBA Insurance Law Section Programs

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts moderated a program on “Cyber Coverage Issues” on January 17, 2019 in Milford, Connecticut. In addition, he presented a session entitled “Connecticut Insurance 2018 Year-in-Review” on February 5, 2019 in Hamden, Connecticut. Both programs were hosted by the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) Insurance Law Section.

Linn Freedman Presents During 45th Annual TIPS Midwinter Symposium

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Linn F. Freedman was among the speakers who participated in a panel discussion on "InsureTech and Big Data" during the "45th Annual TIPS Midwinter Symposium on Insurance and Employee Benefits – Life, Health and Disability, and ERISA: Emerging Issues and Litigation" held January 17-19, 2019. Presented by the American Bar Association Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (TIPS) in Coral Gables, Florida, this year’s program focused on the latest issues and trends in life insurance, health & disability insurance, employee benefits and ERISA, and insurance regulation. Linn's session covered the increasing influence of Big Data on the provision of insurance coverage in life, health and other lines.

Robinson+Cole Hosts PLUS Cyber Round Table

The firm hosted a gathering of the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS) Hartford Chapter in the Hartford office on January 10, 2019. More than 50 people attended the group’s “Cyber Security & Data Privacy Round Table” program. Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Linn F. Freedman was among the speakers who participated in the discussion. PLUS is recognized as the primary source of professional liability educational programs and seminars, networking events, educational products, and information regarding professional liability. Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Stephen O. Clancy coordinated the program and currently serves on the PLUS Hartford Chapter Steering Committee.

Tyler Butts and Jonathan Small Co-Present Webinar on Choice of Law Principles

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers J. Tyler Butts and Jonathan E. Small co-presented a lunchtime webinar entitled “Choice of Law Principles in Disputes Arising Under Insurance Contracts” on December 11, 2018. The program addressed how courts apply choice of law principles in insurance coverage cases, including those involving property and liability claims. Choice of law issues arise when the facts underlying a dispute implicate the laws of more than one jurisdiction, and a court must determine which jurisdiction’s substantive laws should govern the interpretation of the insurance contract. Increasingly, courts have adopted flexible approaches to choice of law questions, such as the standard set forth in the Restatement (Second) Conflict of Laws and its various incarnations. However, a move toward a uniform contract approach could be in the offing.

Robinson+Cole Promotes Nine Lawyers to Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the promotion of nine associates to counsel, effective January 1, 2019. The new counsel are J. Tyler Butts, Karla L. Chaffee, Kevin P. Daly, Soo Y. Kim, Matthew P. Mazzola, Emilee Mooney Scott, Taylor A. Shea, and Jovana Vujovic.

“Each of these lawyers has significantly enhanced some of our core practices in three of our key markets,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “The elevation of this group furthers the development of our lawyers and the firm’s continued success in these strategic areas. It’s my pleasure to congratulate our new counsel on their well-deserved advancement.” Read more in the press release.

Wystan Ackerman Presents Program on Rule 23(b)(2) Injunctive Relief Class Actions

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Wystan M. Ackerman presented a program entitled “Rule 23(b)(2) Injunctive Relief Class Actions: Recent Decisions, Approaches for Plaintiffs and Defendants” on December 11, 2018. Presented by Strafford, the CLE webinar focused on the standards for injunctive classes and covered recent judicial decisions. The program also offered strategies for approaching Rule 23(b)(2) class actions from both the plaintiff and defense perspective.

Larry Klein Presents Program on The Opioid Epidemic

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Lawrence Klein presented a program on "The Opioid Epidemic" as part of the 2018 Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium in New York on November 29, 2018. Presented by DRI (The Voice of the Defense Bar), the symposium was an educational event for insurance executives, claims professionals, and outside counsel who specialize in insurance coverage. Larry's program focused on how the opioid crisis in the United States will affect commercial general liability, errors and omissions, professional liability, and product liability coverage.

Tyler Butts Presents During 2018 Large Loss Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts was among the speakers who presented during a program entitled "Adjusting a Slow-Developing Commercial Fraud Claim: Forged Documents, Doctored Photographs & 26 Tons of Dead Fish" as part of the 2018 Large Loss Conference hosted November 26-28, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. Presented by the Property & Liability Resource Bureau, the conference was attended by large loss claims adjusters and managers, supervisors, general adjusters and EGAs, complex case managers, senior claims management, and service providers who work with these claims. Tyler’s session covered:

• Strategies for adjusting multiple, concurrent, large commercial claims made by an insured under the same policy when one or more of those claims is demonstrating indicia of fraud
• Investigative considerations when an insured seeking coverage under the policy is going through bankruptcy proceedings
• How to properly authenticate and verify submitted claim documentation when the insured retains official records
• How to retain and appropriately utilize SIU or other investigative services to avoid insured allegations of collusion or bad faith

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of seven new partners, effective January 1, 2019. The new partners are Daniel E. Bryer, Shant H. Chalian, Ian T. Clarke-Fisher, Candace M. Cunningham, Kathleen E. Dion, Jonathan R. Hausner, and Benjamin C. Jensen.

“The strength of the firm and its continuing success is directly related to the ongoing development of our lawyers,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “I proudly congratulate each of our new partners on their well-deserved advancement and the R+C community for helping them achieve their success.” Read more in the press release.

Dan Sullivan Shares "A Defense Attorney’s Perspective for the Fire Investigator"

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Daniel F. Sullivan presented a program entitled "A Defense Attorney’s Perspective for the Fire Investigator," as part of the 33rd Annual Arson Investigators' Seminar in Rocky Hill, Connecticut on November 16, 2018. Presented by the Connecticut Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators, the seminar was hosted for fire/arson investigators, police officers, counselors prosecuting or litigating fires, insurance – special investigation unit personnel, claims professionals, and claims legal personnel.

Tyler Butts, Jessica Hamilton, and Jonathan Small Present During 2018 Eastern Regional Adjusters Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers J. Tyler Butts, Jessica A.R. Hamilton, and Jonathan E. Small were among the speakers who presented during the 2018 Eastern Regional Adjusters Conference in Hartford, Connecticut on October 30, 2018. The conference was hosted by the Property & Liability Resource Bureau as part of the organization's Regional Adjusters Conferences, which were held in three different cities around the country. Tyler and Jessica co-presented a program on "Assignment of Benefits," while Jonathan presented on "Common Coverage Issues Arising from Catastrophes."

Steve Clancy Presented with “Rising Star" Award

The Connecticut Defense Lawyers Association (CDLA) presented Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Stephen O. Clancy with its Rising Star award during the organization’s fall meeting on November 12, 2018 at the Inn at Middletown. CDLA is a statewide organization of civil defense attorneys that assists members in becoming better civil defense lawyers. The CDLA Rising Star award recognizes a civil defense lawyer who is truly “one to watch” because of his or her contributions to the profession, the civil defense bar, and the community, and who shows promise of leadership in the future. Read more and view a photo in the press release.

Dan Sullivan Presents CLE Webcast on Insurance Bad Faith "Setups"

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Daniel F. Sullivan presented a program on “Insurance Bad Faith ‘Setups’” on November 8, 2018. Presented by the National Business Institute (NBI), the recorded webcast offered guidance to prepare for the avoidance and countering of bad faith allegations. The program also shared insight on screening cases for bad faith potential, documenting investigations, and developing tools to deny bad faith in court.

Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – “Best Law Firms” Survey

Robinson+Cole received 36 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2019 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report. The firm also received four national rankings: Tier 2 rankings for Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law and Tier 3 rankings for Information Technology Law and Labor Law - Management.

The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national and metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas. The full methodology can be found at http://bestlawfirms.usnews.com/methodology.aspx.

View the complete list of first-tier metropolitan rankings.

Robinson+Cole Recognized by Benchmark Litigation

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a “highly recommended” firm in Connecticut in the 2019 edition of Benchmark Litigation. The firm also received a “recommended” ranking in the area of labor & employment.

In addition, Stephen W. Aronson received the “Labor & Employment Star – Northeast” recognition, a new distinction from the inaugural edition of Benchmark Labor & Employment, and the following Robinson+Cole lawyers earned the “Local Litigation Stars” honor: Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Joseph L. Clasen, Gerald P. Dwyer Jr., Linda L. Morkan, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, and James A. Wade. Read more in the press release.

51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 51 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2018. In addition, 32 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. View the list of recognized attorneys and their areas of practice.

Wystan Ackerman Presents Program on Personal Jurisdiction After Bristol-Myers Squibb

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Wystan M. Ackerman was among the speakers that presented during a program on “Personal Jurisdiction After Bristol-Myers Squibb: Unresolved Issues, Shifting Plaintiff Strategies” on September 26, 2018. Presented by Strafford, the CLE webinar covered the issue of personal jurisdiction over corporate defendants in the wake of the Supreme Court’s 2017 Bristol-Myers Squibb v. Superior Ct. and BNSF Railway Co. v. Tyrrell rulings. The program reviewed the progression of the Court’s prior decisions on corporate jurisdiction, lower court decisions issued since the BMS/BNSF rulings, and key unresolved legal issues in the year following the BMS decision.

Steve Clancy Appointed Chair of ABA's Property Insurance Law Committee of TIPS

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Stephen O. Clancy has been appointed chair of the Property Insurance Law Committee (PILC) of the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (TIPS) for the 2018 to 2019 term. The PILC focuses on key legal and practical issues that the insurance industry and the insurance consumer encounter in first-party property insurance. Steve has previously served as chair-elect and vice chair of the Committee. He regularly presents at various meetings and events and serves as the liaison between the PILC and the ABA’s various publications.

Jessica Hamilton Presents at 2018 Central Regional Adjusters Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance and Appellate Groups member Jessica Hamilton was among the speakers during the 2018 Central Regional Adjusters Conference held on September 12-13, 2018, in Des Moines, Iowa. The conference was hosted by the Property & Liability Resource Bureau as one of its three Regional Adjusters Conferences around the country. Hamilton, who is also a member of the firm’s Litigation Section as well as its Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team, presented a program on “Assignment of Benefits.” The program:
•  Reviewed recent trends with building contractors soliciting assignment of benefits with personal lines and commercial lines claims;
•  Described assignment of benefits strategies employed by public adjusters, attorneys, and real estate purchasers;
•  Evaluated what the law in various jurisdictions says about rules governing assignment of benefits; and
•  Analyzed adjusting strategies adjusters might consider when faced with various forms of assignment of benefits.

Marc Haas and Gil Lee Co-present Webinar on Construction Defect Coverage

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Gilbert L. Lee co-presented a webinar on “Construction Defect Coverage” on July 31, 2018. The lunchtime program covered the peculiarities of construction defect insurance claims under standard commercial general liability policies. Mr. Haas and Mr. Lee offered insight on a variety of common recurring issues that the courts continue to wrestle with, including policy definitions of property damage and occurrence, and they addressed relevant case law and legislation.

Rhonda Tobin Among Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation

Benchmark Litigation has named Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Rhonda J. Tobinone of its Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2018. In this national list published on July 19, 2018, she is one of only three female litigators chosen in the state of Connecticut. Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation recognizes the accomplishments of America’s leading female trial lawyers from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Read more in the press release.

Larry Klein, Gene Murphy, and Rhonda Tobin Present Program on Policy Limit Demands

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Lawrence J. Klein, Eugene P. Murphy, and Rhonda J. Tobin presented the program “Policy Limit Demands— Protecting Insurers Against The Latest Strategy of Plaintiffs' Counsel” on June 13, 2018 at the firm. Attendees were lead through an interactive discussion on policy limit demands in an effort to coordinate a proper response. Mr. Klein, Mr. Murphy, and Ms. Tobin addressed identifying a policy limit demand, the continuing need to fully evaluate a claim for liability and damages following receipt of a policy limit demand, the potential legal consequences of failing to properly respond to a policy limit demand, and best practices and strategies for responding to a policy limit demand. The presentation was the third in a newly launched “Insurance In-House Counsel CLE Series” that offers continuing legal education (CLE) and networking catered exclusively to in-house counsel and attorney claim professionals in the insurance industry. The next program in the series is scheduled to take place on September 6.

Tyler Butts Presents on Assignment of Benefits During Property & Liability Resource Bureau Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts presented a program on “Assignment of Benefits” during the 2018 Western Regional Adjusters Conference on June 26 to June 27, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The conference is hosted by the Property & Liability Resource Bureau as part of the organization's Regional Adjusters Conferences, which are held in three different cities around the U.S. During the session, Mr. Butts reviewed recent trends with building contractors soliciting assignment of benefits with personal lines and commercial lines claims; described assignment of benefits strategies employed by public adjusters, attorneys, and real estate purchasers; evaluated what the law in various jurisdictions says about rules governing assignment of benefits; and analyzed adjusting strategies adjusters might consider when faced with various forms of assignment of benefits.

Rhonda Tobin Presents Seminar on Policy Limit Demands

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Rhonda J. Tobin presented a seminar on “Policy Limit Demands” to in-house counsel and claim professionals from W. R. Berkley Company, Berkley Professional, Berkley Custom Insurance Managers, Berkley Public Entity Managers, Berkley Global Product Recall, and Vela Insurance in New York City on May 22, 2018. Ms. Tobin covered the increased frequency of policy limit demands, the exposures to insurers for not properly responding to those demands, and insurer best practices.

Dan Sullivan Present at 2018 Advanced Fire Investigation School

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Daniel F. Sullivan invited by representatives of the Connecticut State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit to present at the Connecticut Fire Academy's 2018 Advanced Fire Investigation School on May 2, 2018 in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. Mr. Sullivan alongside others presented on “The Role of the Defense Attorney – Thoughts on Cross Examination of a Fire Expert” to a large class of state and local fire marshals as part of the Academy’s multi-week training session on various aspects of fire investigation and litigation associated with those investigations. They shared their experience about the cross-examination of experts, discussed various grounds on which expert opinions are challenged, and offered their advice for preparation and testimony in a fire case.

Kip Dwyer Presents on Foundation Engineering Design and Insurance Coverage Issues

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Gerald P. Dwyer, Jr. presented a session on “Foundation Engineering Design and Coverage Issues” during the 2018 Claims Conference & Insurance Services Expo, “Adapting to a World of Change,” held April 15-18, 2018 in Orlando, Florida. Presented by the Property & Liability Resource Bureau, Mr. Dwyer focused on the construction methods, types and functions of various foundations; the evaluation of foundation failures, including crack patterns and possible contributing causes; identifying the timing of foundation failure; and analysis of recurring coverage issues with foundation losses under standard commercial property and homeowners policy language. He co-presented with James Panko, a Professional Engineer, who focused on the challenging technical and engineering issues frequently involved in foundation failures and the insurance claims that result.  

Wystan Ackerman, Gene Murphy, and Dan Sullivan Present Webinar on Business Interruption Claims Arising from Catastrophes

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Wystan M. Ackerman, Eugene P. Murphy, and Daniel F. Sullivan presented a webinar on “Business Interruption Claims Arising from Catastrophes” on March 22, 2018. The webinar covered the central issues associated with business interruption claims arising from catastrophes such as Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. Mr. Ackerman, Mr. Murphy, and Mr. Sullivan discussed period of restoration issues, separating covered vs. uncovered losses, loss measurement issues, contingent business interruption coverage, utility service interruption coverage, and civil authority coverage.

Tyler Butts and Kip Dwyer Present on Preparing the Insurance Claim Professional and Corporate Designee for Deposition

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers J. Tyler Butts and Gerald P. Dwyer, Jr. presented the program “Please Raise Your Right Hand—Preparing the Insurance Claim Professional and Corporate Designee for Deposition” on March 22, 2018 at the firm. Attendees were lead through an interactive discussion on depositions of insurance company witnesses, with a focus on claim professionals and corporate designees. Mr. Butts and Mr. Dwyer covered avoiding an inadvertent waiver of the attorney-client or work product privileges when decision-makers are deposed in coverage or bad faith actions; key differences between federal and state practice regarding the designation and deposition of a corporate designee/representative; the potential consequences of designating the wrong person to testify on behalf of the company, the ability to amend prior testimony, and the rules governing the use of corporate designee testimony at trial; and ethical considerations of witness preparation. The program was followed by an informal networking reception. The presentation is the second in a newly launched “Insurance In-House Counsel CLE Series” that offers continuing legal education (CLE) and networking catered exclusively to in-house counsel and attorney claim professionals in the insurance industry. The next program in the series is scheduled to take place in June.

Dan Sullivan Co-Authors Article Published in ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section Magazine

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Daniel F. Sullivan co-authored the article “Let’s Agree to Disagree - Undisputed Amounts and Partial Payments,” published in the Winter 2018 issue of the American Bar Association (ABA) Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section’s quarterly magazine, In Brief. The article discusses the question of when and under what circumstances a policyholder is entitled to interim payments of “undisputed” amounts from an insurer. Mr. Sullivan indicates that the answer will depend on the circumstances of the claim, examination of applicable policy language, and research into case decisions, state statutes, and applicable insurance department regulations. “Notwithstanding, prompt payment of undisputed amounts by a carrier is very often the most practical and preferred approach,” said Mr. Sullivan. “At a minimum, timely payment of undisputed amounts assists a carrier in its defense of any bad faith claims.”

Tyler Butts’ Oral Argument Quoted in Hartford Courant Article

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer J. Tyler Butts was quoted in the article “Convict Who Won Civil Rights Suit Fights State Effort To Seize Money To Pay For Incarceration,” published in the Hartford Courant on March 14, 2018. The article discusses the challenge of a state law that allows Connecticut authorities to seize legal judgments and other assets from prison inmates and apply the money to the costs of their incarceration made by Rashad Williams, an inmate who won $300,000 in a civil rights suit against a prison guard. “'There is something uncouth about the state reducing its liability by paying itself for the bad acts of its employee,’ one of Williams new lawyers, J. Tyler Butts, argued Wednesday to U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in federal court in Hartford.” Read the full article.

Rhonda Tobin Presents at Claims and Litigation Management Alliance Annual Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group Lawyer Rhonda J. Tobin co-presented a program on “Policy Limit Demands: The New Plaintiff’s Strategy and How to Protect Insurers and Defense Counsel” on March 15, 2018 at the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance Annual Conference in Houston, Texas. The CLE program addressed the new wave of policy limit demands, how they impact the claim adjustment process, and the potential legal exposure they create. The session concluded with a review of best practices for insurers in responding to the demands. 

Wystan Ackerman Co-presents on Property Insurance During CBA CLE Seminar

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Wystan M. Ackerman co-presented the program “Property Insurance: What you need to know but were a bit too timid to ask – The Basics and Recent Developments” on February 22, 2018 at the CBA Law Center in New Britain, Connecticut. Co-presented by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Insurance Law Section and Real Property Section, the CLE program offered insight on what property insurance commonly covers, what it doesn’t cover, and how the most recent battles between policyholders and insurers have been resolved. Mr. Ackerman also addressed common provisions that can add to a policy’s protections – such as business interruption coverage – and common exclusions that limit coverage. The panel concluded with a review of recent case law addressing property policy disputes and the issues that may be addressed by the Connecticut appellate courts in the coming year.

Laura Farach, Dan Sullivan, and Greg Varga, Participate in ABA TTIPS Property Insurance Law Committee Spring CLE Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group Lawyers Laura Farach, Daniel F. Sullivan, and Gregory P. Varga all participated in the 2018 Property Insurance Law Committee Spring CLE Conference, "What Keeps You Up at Night?" from March 1 to March 3, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. Presented by the American Bar Association's Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (TTIPS), the conference offered insight on cutting edge issues that affect areas unique to property insurance law. Ms. Farach served as the Program Co-chair for the conference while Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Varga were among the speakers. Mr. Sullivan presented on "The Increasing Threat of Global Ransomware," which focused on the evolving coverage issues associated with ransomware and offered insight on how insurers are responding to this threat. Mr. Varga's session, "Is it Flood? Is it Wind? No, it's a Hurricane!,” addressed an array of causation issues that arise under property insurance policies and remain an omnipresent source of dispute between policyholders and carriers in the context of catastrophe losses.

Ray DeMeo Presents at the Loss Executives Association Annual Meeting

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Raymond T. DeMeo facilitated a program on “Policy Inconsistencies, Inter-Insurer Conflicts, and Effective Claim Handling in the Market Situation” during the 87th Annual Meeting & Educational Conference of the Loss Executives Association in St. Petersburg, Florida from January 24 to January 26, 2018. The session identified areas of conflict that can arise between primary and excess property insurers and between multiple insurers providing quota share coverage in the same layer of insurance. Mr. DeMeo covered strategies to proceed with orderly claims adjustment without allowing conflicts to interfere with providing timely payments of covered losses to the insured.

Steve Clancy, Rhonda Tobin, and Greg Varga Present on Attorney-Client Privilege as Part of New Insurance In-House Counsel CLE Series

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Stephen O. Clancy, Rhonda J. Tobin, and Gregory P. Varga presented a program on “Preserving the Privilege—The Erosion of Protections for Confidential Communications Between In-House Attorneys, Claim Professionals, and Outside Counsel” on January 11, 2018 at the firm. Attendees were led through an interactive discussion on the intricacies of recognizing situations in which attorney-client privilege is preserved and when it may be inadvertently waived in communications between in-house counsel and insurance claims adjusters. The program was followed by an informal networking reception.

The presentation was the first in a newly launched “Insurance In-House Counsel CLE Series” that offers continuing legal education (CLE) and networking catered exclusively to in-house counsel and attorney claim professionals in the insurance industry. The next program in the series is scheduled to take place on March 29, 2018.

Laura Farach Presents at Annual Windstorm Insurance Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Laura Farach co-presented a program on “The Importance of Time and Money” during the 19th Annual Windstorm Insurance Conference held in Orlando, Florida from January 15 to January 19, 2018. The Conference was attended by approximately 1,000 insurance industry professionals and featured programs on current trends, hot topics, and recent developments in windstorm/property insurance claims. During the program, Ms. Farach spoke about undisputed and partial payments, including when and under what circumstances a policyholder is entitled to the payment of “undisputed amounts” before the final resolution of a claim. Ms. Farach also focused on the information that must be included in a sworn statement in proof of loss, its effect on an insurer’s evaluation and adjustment of a claim, and the its impact as a trigger in starting the clock on an insurer’s deadline to make undisputed payments on a claim. In addition, Ms. Farach covered the benefits of timely payments for the policyholder and the repercussions of untimely payments for the insurer, including the insurer’s bad faith exposure as a result of failing to make undisputed payments in a timely manner.

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of seven new partners, effective January 1, 2018. The new partners are Kendra L. Berardi, Stephen O. Clancy, Dana M. Horton, Rachel V. Kushel, Keisha S. Palmer, Timothy C. Twardowski, and George W. Watson III.

“The development and advancement of our lawyers is critical to our continuing success,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “The advancement of these new partners is representative of the ways in which the firm continues to grow and be successful. It gives me great pleasure to congratulate our new partners, and also congratulate the R+C community for helping them achieve their success.”

Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Promotes Eight Lawyers to Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the promotion of eight associates to counsel, effective January 1, 2018. The new counsel are Kathleen E. Dion, Jerome L. Garciano, Sorell E. Negro, Lisa C. Riccio, Evan J. Seeman, Lauren M. Sigg, Jonathan E. Small, and Elizabeth K. Wright.

“The elevation of these lawyers further enhances some of our core practices in three of our key markets,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “It’s my pleasure to congratulate this group on their well-deserved promotions.”

Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Participate at HarrisMartin's Hurricanes Irma & Maria Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers presented at HarrisMartin's Hurricanes Irma & Maria Conference in Miami Beach, Florida, on November 14, 2017. Managing Partner Stephen E. Goldman was co-chair of the event. Gregory P. Varga provided a forecast of the unique insurance coverage and loss measurement issues that are anticipated to arise from business interruption claims filed in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Jonathan E. Small spoke on "Flood, Wind, and Concurrent Causation" and "Unique Insurance and Class Action Litigation Following Irma and Maria." Laura Farach led panel discussions on complex code upgrade coverage issues and litigation involving allegations of unfair claim settlement practices.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at Hurricane Claims Forum

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Wystan M. Ackerman and Gregory P. Varga spoke at the Hurricane Claims Forum in Orlando, Florida, on November 3, 2017. The forum focused on topics of interest to insurance companies, reinsurers, insurance coverage counsel, policyholder counsel, and those providing services to the insurance and legal industry, especially in light of the recent devastating Atlantic hurricane season. Mr. Ackerman participated in the panel discussion "Homeowner Claims: Covered & Excluded Causes of Loss," which addressed the various issues faced by homeowners and insurers, including wind versus flood determinations and methodologies, distinguishing storm damage from preexisiting damage, and how to deal with long-term damage. Mr. Varga presented in the session on "Commercial Claims: Business Interruption, Lost Profits & More," which explored property damage and business interruption losses, including contingent business interruption coverage, determining lost profits using loss calculation methodologies, and losses triggered by supply chain disruptions. 

Robinson+Cole Receives 37 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

Robinson+Cole received 37 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report.

The firm also received three national rankings: Tier 2 ranking for Real Estate Law and Tier 3 rankings for Information Technology Law and Land Use & Zoning Law.

The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.

View a complete list of the firm's first-tier metropolitan rankings in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 56 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2017. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

Wystan Ackerman Serves on Panel for the Northeast General Counsel Seminar

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Wystan M. Ackerman presented at the PCI Northeast General Counsel Seminar, sponsored by the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, on September 19, 2017, in Philadelphia. Along with his fellow panelists, he reported on the latest "Insurance Law Developments." Mr. Ackerman’s portion of the presentation focused on recent developments in class action litigation against insurers, including cases involving depreciation of labor costs, depreciation in California, application of deductibles, diminution in value on property insurance claims, Connecticut faulty concrete foundation litigation, and auto insurance cases involving the Medicare Secondary Payer Act.

Fifty-Nine Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018

Fifty-nine Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018 (Copyright 2017 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Of the 59 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 49 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state.

Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2018 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Litigation – Construction; Stephen E. Goldman in Insurance Law; Stuart D. Rosen in Litigation – Banking and Finance; Edward J. Samorajczyk Jr. in Securities / Capital Markets Law; William T. Sellay in Mergers and Acquisitions Law; and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law.

See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the press release.

Rhonda Tobin Among Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation

Benchmark Litigation has named Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Rhonda J. Tobin one of its Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2017. In this national list published on July 31, 2017, she is one of only three female litigators chosen in the state of Connecticut. Benchmark Litigation’s Top 250 Women in Litigation recognizes the accomplishments of America’s leading female trial lawyers from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Read more in the press release.

Rhonda Tobin Elected Fellow of National Insurance Coverage Organization

Rhonda J. Tobin has been elected a Fellow of the American College of Coverage and Extracontractual Counsel (ACCEC). ACCEC is a national organization that comprises almost 300 preeminent lawyers involved in coverage and extracontractual matters, with Fellows representing both policyholders and insurers as well as honorary members from academia. For its membership, the organization seeks lawyers who are distinguished for their skill, experience, and high standards of professional and ethical conduct in the practice of insurance coverage and extracontractual law and who are dedicated to excellence in this area of practice. Read more in the press release.

Insurance Group Lawyers Present on Undisputed Amounts and Partial Payments

Insurance Group lawyers Daniel F. Sullivan and Laura Farach presented at the Spring Meeting for the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section’s Property Insurance Law Committee in Orlando, Florida on April 7, 2017. The meeting focused on the timing, triggers, and circumstances surrounding first-party property insurance payments. Mr. Sullivan and Ms. Farach’s presentation, “Let’s Agree to Agree: Undisputed Amounts and Partial Payments,” tackled the largely undefined standards for when, and under what circumstances, a policyholder is entitled to interim payment of undisputed amounts during an ongoing claim adjustment under the laws of all 50 states. They also discussed the considerations that factor into an insurer’s decision whether to issue such payments. The conference was attended by policyholder and defense property insurance lawyers from around the country, including Robinson+Cole’s own Gerald P. Dwyer Jr. and Stephen O. Clancy.

Stephen Clancy Presents on Property Insurance, Becomes Chair-Elect of ABA Property Insurance Law Committee

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Stephen O. Clancy was a panelist for a webinar sponsored by the Property Insurance Law Committee of the ABA's Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section (TIPS) on February 15, 2017. The program, "Property Insurance 101," offered an overview of property law insurance and was specifically geared to new claim professionals and attorneys as well as individuals who needed a refresher. The topics included indemnity, coverages, and organization of a typical policy; the doctrine of contra proferentum, policy endorsement, or modifications; policy language; named peril versus all risk; issues relevant to coverage; exclusions and limitations; and bad faith.

In addition, Mr. Clancy has been named chair-elect of the Property Insurance Law Committee of ABA TIPS for the 2017 to 2018 term, which begins in August 2017. He will become chair of the committee in August 2018. 

Insurance + Reinsurance Group Lawyers Present at 39th Annual Arson Seminar

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Daniel F. Sullivan and Eugene P. Murphy presented at the Florida Advisory Committee on Arson Prevention 39th Annual Seminar, held at the Florida State Fire College in Ocala, Florida, on March 8, 2017. The conference was attended by almost 200 fire service, insurance, and legal professionals. In their session, "Preparing for and Providing Testimony in a Fire Case," they explored the different types and purposes of testimony in both civil and criminal cases; the development of law of expert testimony, including the recent decision of the Florida Supreme Court on the standard for admissibility of expert testimony; and common challenges to qualifications and methodology of experts in fire cases, including challenges related to NFPA 921 and NFPA 103. They also provided insight and advice on what experts in fire cases can expect both in the preparation for testifying and during cross-examination.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Conduct Roundtable on Claims Litigation

Health Law Litigation Team lawyers Patrick W. Begos and Theodore J. Tucci recently conducted a roundtable program for in-house counsel for a major group disability insurer handling claim litigation in the group benefits area. The program was on “Risk Management and Litigation Issues Arising Out of the January 2017 Amendments to ERISA Disability Claim Regulations.” The new regulations were issued by the state Department of Labor, and the substantive changes go into effect in January 2018. The new rules impose significant changes on benefit plans and insurers in the claims-handling processes that will govern claims by employees for disability benefits. Plans and insurers are beginning the process now to formulate and implement claim operation changes in order to be ready to comply with the new requirements. 

John Malloy Participates in Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee CLE Seminar

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer John P. Malloy was a presenter at the 2017 Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee CLE Seminar in Tucson, Arizona, on March 1, 2017. In the roundtable luncheon discussion "Is There Equity in Private Equity Insurance Coverage for Both the Investment Companies and Their Portfolio Companies?" Mr. Malloy spoke about coverages available from the investor to fund the portfolio company and coverage issues that may arise when private equity board members also serve as portfolio board members. The seminar featured the latest developments in insurance law from leading lawyers and insurance professionals.

Insurance Lawyer is Panelist at Bad Faith Litigation Symposium

Gerald P. “Kip” Dwyer Jr., chair of Robinson+Cole's Insurance + Reinsurance Group, was among the panelists at the “Annual Insurance Law Symposium: Bad Faith Litigation,” which took place on February 23, 2017, at the University of Connecticut School of Law in Hartford. The event was co-hosted by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Insurance Law Section and the UCONN School of Law’s Insurance Law Center.  Mr. Dwyer and his fellow panelists discussed what bad faith means in 2017 in Connecticut and around the country. The event focused on the historical development of common law bad faith,  the current legal standards applicable to common law and statutory bad faith, challenges of proving bad faith at trial, and the protections afforded (or not afforded) by the attorney-client privilege in claim-handling disputes. 

Rhonda Tobin and Eugene Murphy Speak on Underwriting Issues in Insurance Claims

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Rhonda J. Tobin and Eugene P. Murphy spoke to a group of in-house lawyers at AIG Claims, Inc., on February 16, 2017, in New York City. Their presentation, "Underwriting Issues in Insurance Claims," focused on underwriting issues, legal remedies concerning those issues, and underwriters as witnesses. The attendees included 50 lawyers who handle complex liability claims and their managers.

Kathryn Rattigan and Carrie Turner Speak on Drones in the Insurance Industry

Data Privacy + Security Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Carrie C. Turner, along with  Ivan Stamatovski of Easy Aerial, presented the program "Drones Take Flight in the Insurance Industry" on January 19, 2017, in New York City and on February 8, 2017, in Hartford, Connecticut. Ms. Rattigan and Ms. Turner discussed how drones can collect valuable data to reduce losses, evaluate and monitor risks, reduce fraud, and increase the productivity, safety and efficiency of claims adjusters. Additionally, they addressed the Federal Aviation Administration's Part 107 regulations, voluntary best privacy and security practices, and how businesses using drones can comply with these regulations and practices. Mr. Stamatovski spoke about supplying hardware (drones) and software to many industries already using drones worldwide and provided a drone display, which he designed and built, for audience members to view up close.

Gene Murphy Presents at Annual Windstorm Insurance Conference

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Eugene P. Murphy spoke at the 18th Annual Windstorm Insurance Conference, held in Orlando, Florida. The conference featured programs on current trends, hot topics, and recent developments in windstorm/property insurance claims. Mr. Murphy presented at two sessions, on January 30 and February 1, 2017, on the topic "Advanced Settlement Techniques for Property/Windstorm Insurance Claims: The Upside of Getting to 'Yes,'" which addressed the preparation of mediators and clients for mediation; key settlement issues regarding authority, control, timing, confidentiality, and limited discovery; and insurance-specific dynamics and considerations. This year's Annual Windstorm Insurance Conference drew over 1,000 property/windstorm insurance claims professionals.

Robinson+Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

Robinson+Cole received 34 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 26 in the city of Hartford, in the 2017 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report.

The firm also received three national rankings: Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law, Land Use & Zoning Law, and Real Estate Law.

The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.

View a complete list of the firm's first-tier metropolitan rankings in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 51 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2016. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

In addition, 23 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2017

Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2017 (Copyright 2016 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Across the firm’s practice groups and offices, 57 lawyers were named to this year’s list, including 47 in Connecticut.

Additionally, the following four lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2017 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Construction Law; Judith M. Keppelman  in Litigation – Trusts and Estates; Linda L. Morkan in Appellate Practice; and Edward J. Samorajczyk Jr. in Corporate Law.

See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the news release.

Dana Horton Reappointed Chair of RIBA's Superior Court Bench/Bar Committee for Third Term

Dana M. Horton has been reappointed chair of the Rhode Island Bar Association's Superior Court Bench/Bar Committee for the 2016 to 2017 term. Ms. Horton has been a committee member for over 12 years and has served as the chair for the past two terms. The committee collaborates with the Superior Court to improve facilities, practices, procedures, rules, and other matters that affect the bench/bar and the public.

Ms. Horton is an insurance litigation lawyer in Robinson+Cole's Providence office.

Dana Horton Discusses How Educational Institutions Can Deal with the Rising Prevalence of Food Allergies

On June 17, 2016, Dana M. Horton, moderated the presentation "Digesting the Law of Food Allergies" at the Rhode Island Bar Association Annual Meeting. The program addressed federal and state statutes, regulations, and decisions as they pertain to the education system, as well as school policies and procedures, and best practices. In 2013, the CDC reported a 50 percent increase in children with food allergies between 1997 and 2011. With food allergies dramatically and unexplainably on the rise, protecting the safety of students and adhering to laws and regulations continues to be a priority for educators, from elementary schools through college.

Robinson+Cole Welcomes Thirteen New Lawyers

Robinson+Cole welcomes 13 new lawyers who joined the firm over the last several months in its offices in Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, and New York. The lawyers bring additional breadth to a number of our corporate practices, including business transactions, data privacy, employee benefits and compensation, finance, health law, labor and employment, insurance and reinsurance, real estate and development, and tax.

"Robinson+Cole continues to draw high-caliber talent to our practices, and we are thrilled to welcome these latest additions to our firm," said Stephen E. Goldman, Robinson+Cole's managing partner. "They bring valuable and diverse experiences with them that will allow us to continue to provide the high level of service our clients expect and also to offer new insights and perspectives to the legal challenges our clients face."

Jessica Hamilton Writes Article for ABA's Appellate Practice Journal

Robinson+Cole insurance litigation lawyer Jessica A. R. Hamilton wrote the article "State v. Santiago: Connecticut Highlights Quandaries of Death Penalty Repeals," published on March 4, 2016, in the Winter 2016 issue of Appellate Practice,the newsletter of the American Bar Association's Section of Litigation. In the article, Ms. Hamilton examines State v. Santiago, a watershed case in the death penalty repeal movement in Connecticut. In particular, she discusses various aspects of the case, including the prospective legislative repeal and how the Court, as shown in the 4-3 decision, was deeply divided in reaching its decision. To view all of her insights, please click here to read the article.

Stephen E. Goldman Elected Robinson+Cole Managing Partner

Robinson+Cole Recognized in Benchmark Litigation 2016

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a "highly recommended" firm in Connecticut in the 2016 edition of Benchmark Litigation. The firm also had the most lawyers recognized as "Local Litigation Stars" in Connecticut. The nine lawyers who earned this honor are Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Joseph L. Clasen, Nuala E. Droney, Linda L. Morkan, Craig A. Raabe, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, and James A. Wade.

Benchmark Litigation is the only publication on the market to focus exclusively on litigation in the U.S. Benchmark results are based on comprehensive interviews with litigators and their clients. Firms listed as highly recommended received the most mentions by peers and clients and are held as dominate in their particular jurisdiction. Local litigation stars reflect lawyers who are consistently recommended as reputable and effective litigators by peers and clients. Benchmark is published by Euromoney's Legal Media Group. You can read more about their methodology here.

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Elected to World Affairs Council of Connecticut Board of Directors

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 54 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2015. The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.
In addition, 21 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here. See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Welcomes 10 New Lawyers

Robinson+Cole welcomes 10 new lawyers who joined
the firm over the course of the summer, in offices in Connecticut,
Massachusetts, New York, and Florida. The lawyers bring additional breadth to a variety of our practices, including business transactions, environmental and utilities, finance, insurance, labor and employment, litigation, real estate, nonprofit organizations, and trusts and estates. Additionally, the firm is pleased to welcome two recent law school graduates. Read about our new lawyers here.

Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2016

Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2016 (Copyright 2015 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Across the firm’s practice groups and offices, 55 lawyers were named to this year’s list, including 45 in Connecticut.

Additionally, the following seven lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2016 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Bruce B. Barth in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law; Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Litigation – Construction; Stephen E. Goldman in Insurance Law; Joey Lee Miranda in Environmental Law; Craig A. Raabe in Litigation – Intellectual Property; Edward J. Samorajczyk, Jr., in Securities / Capital Markets Law; and William T. Sellay in Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Peter V. Lacouture was named the Best Lawyers® 2016 “Lawyer of the Year” in Energy Law in Providence, Rhode Island.

See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Welcomes New Lawyers

Robinson+Cole Opens Office in Miami

Robinson+Cole has opened an office in Miami. The new office is located at 801 Brickell Avenue. Eugene P. Murphy, a partner with the firm in the Insurance + Reinsurance Group, is overseeing the Miami location, where he is joined by associate Laura Farach, most recently with the firm of Avila Rodriguez Hernandez Mena & Ferri LLP, and paralegal Melanie Hoffman. Read more in the press release here.

Hartford Insurance Lawyers Speak at ExecuSummit

Insurance lawyers Gregory P. Varga served as a panelists at the First Annual Bad Faith Litigation Strategies ExecuSummit, on November 5, 2014, at the Mohegan Sun Convention Center in Uncasville, Connecticut. Mr. Varga spoke on "The Impacts and Dangers of Unfair Trade Practices Acts – The Need To Be Aware!" The conference was geared toward bad faith litigation–focused insurance professionals and was attended by many claims executives in the insurance industry.

Robinson+Cole Welcomes New Lawyers

Robinson+Cole continues to expand its lawyer roster with the addition of five new associates across its practice areas. The lawyers join the firm's Hartford, Stamford, and New York offices and their arrival corresponds with that of Leslie J. Levinson, who, as previously announced, joined the firm as a partner and co-chair of Robinson+Cole's Transactional Health Law Group in the firm's Metro New York offices.

"The arrival of these associates strengthens Robinson+Cole's practice groups, allowing the firm to more effectively and completely serve clients throughout our reach," said Joey Lee Miranda, partner in the Environmental + Utilities Group and chair of the firm's Hiring Committee. "We are very pleased to have them on board and bring their experiences to our teams and our clients."

Robinson+Cole Welcomes Six New Lawyers

Robinson+Cole is pleased to welcome to the firm five new associates and one counsel across its practice areas. The lawyers join the firm's Boston, Hartford, and Stamford offices and their arrival corresponds with that of Matthew T. Miklave, who, as previously announced, joined the firm as a partner to head Robinson+Cole's labor and employment practice in the firm's Metro New York offices.

Providence Lawyer Selected to Chair Rhode Island Bar Association Committee

Dana M. Horton has been named chair of the Rhode Island Bar Association's Superior Court Bench/Bar Committee for the 2014-2015 term. Ms. Horton has been a committee member for over ten years and will now lead the committee and collaborate with judges to improve the practice of law in Rhode Island.

The Superior Court Bench/Bar Committee works with the Superior Court to improve facilities, practices, procedures, rules, and other matters that affect the bench/bar and the public.

Gerald Dwyer Elected to Foodshare’s Board of Directors

Foodshare has elected Robinson+Cole lawyer Gerald P. Dwyer Jr. (Kip) to its Board of Directors. Foodshare is the region’s food bank and its goal is to end hunger, that is, to make sure enough food is available to support people who fall on hard times. In 2013, Foodshare distributed food for 12 million meals—that’s 40,000 meals a day—but that huge amount covered only one-third of the need in our area. Beyond distributing food, Foodshare works to mobilize individuals and organizations, recognizing the only way this balance can happen, and keep happening, is if the entire community gets involved in the effort.

“Kip has a real passion for Foodshare’s work and a thorough understanding of the systemic issues we need to address if we are to get at the root of hunger. He will undoubtedly bring a wealth of knowledge to our organization,” said Gloria McAdam, president and CEO of Foodshare.

Read more in the full press release here.

Robinson & Cole Welcomes Eight New Lawyers

Robinson & Cole Elects Four New Partners and Promotes Six Counsel

Robinson & Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Three National Rankings in U.S. News – Best Lawyers Survey

Super Lawyers® Names 61 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2013 List

Steve Clancy Appointed Vice Chair of ABA's Property Insurance Law Committee of TIPS

Robinson & Cole Lawyers Provide Commentary in Law360

Robinson & Cole Announces Annual Pro Bono, Mentor, and Community Service Awards

Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

Robinson & Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2014 (Copyright 2013 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 56 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 48 in Connecticut and 2 who received the distinction for the first time.

Additionally, three lawyers were named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2014. Judith M. Keppelman was named Hartford Trusts and Estates "Lawyer of the Year," Dwight H. Merriam was named Hartford Litigation - Real Estate "Lawyer of the Year," and James A. Wade was named Hartford Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants "Lawyer of the Year."

Robinson & Cole’s Insurance and Reinsurance Group Welcomes Dominic Spinelli

Providence Lawyers Elected to Rhode Island Bar Association's House of Delegates

Providence Lawyer Sworn In as NLCBA President

Insurance Lawyer Rebecca Levy-Sachs Named a 2013 Florida Super Lawyer

Stephen Clancy Takes on Leadership Roles in Local Community and American Bar Association

J. Tyler Butts Pens Hurricane Sandy Article for DRI’s For The Defense

U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Standard Fire Insurance Company v. Knowles, A Class Action Fairness Act Case

Rebecca Levy-Sachs Presents Workshop at 2013 Windstorm Conference

Insurance Litigation Attorneys Write Article on How Courts are Interpreting Faulty Workmanship Exclusion for Connecticut Law Tribune

Sarasota Magazine and Biz941 Magazine Again Recognize Rebecca Levy-Sachs as a Top Lawyer

Super Lawyers® Names 49 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2012 List and Recognizes 26 as Rising Stars

A total of 49 Robinson & Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island for 2012. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

In addition, 26 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

Recognized attorneys and their areas of practice can be read in the full press release.

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Launch New Property Insurance Blog

Robinson & Cole's Insurance and Reinsurance Practice Group has launched a new blog, Property Insurance Coverage Insights as a resource on developments in property insurance law of interest to claims professionals and in-house counsel. Property Insurance Coverage Insights discusses cases from around the nation on various topics, including measurement of the period of restoration in the business interruption context, coverage for code upgrades, appraisal, and frequently litigated provisions such as the earth movement and pollution exclusions, and late notice. It also addresses developments in bad faith law in the context of property insurance claims.

Insurance attorneys Wystan M. Ackerman, Caryn L. Daum, Gerald P. Dwyer, Jr., Stephen E. Goldman, Rebecca Levy-Sachs, John P. Malloy, Eugene P. Murphy, John W. Steinmetz, Daniel F. Sullivan, Rhonda J. Tobin, and Gregory P. Varga are contributing authors.

Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

Robinson & Cole LLP was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 (© 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 55 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 46 in Connecticut and 10 who received the distinction for the first time.

Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 4.4 million confidential evaluations are submitted by attorneys on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas. Additional information regarding the Best Lawyers selection methodology may be read here. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers "the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice."

Article by Insurance Attorneys Featured on Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel Website

Eugene Murphy Presents Strategies for Litigating Insurance Coverage Claims

Wystan Ackerman Analyzes Georgia Supreme Court Ruling in Law360 Story

Gregory Varga and Stephen Clancy Present on Earth Movement and Settling Exclusions for Property Insurance

Insurance Partner Updates Claims Personnel and Counsel on Building Code Changes in Florida

Rebecca Levy-Sachs Presents at 2012 Windstorm Conference

Rebecca Levy-Sachs Presents on Sinkhole Coverage and Changes to FL Insurance Statutes

On December 6, 2011, Ms. Levy-Sachs presented the three-hour Continuing Education (CE) presentation “Case Law Update: Changes to Florida Insurance Statutes” to 28 claims personnel and attorneys for one of Robinson & Cole’s national clients at their Florida Property Staff and Partnership Meeting in Tampa, Florida. The course presentation was approved for two CE credits for Florida Insurance Adjusters. The presentation reviewed the provisions of Florida’s 2011 Property Insurance Statute SB-408, which was signed into law in May 2011 and makes a number of modifications to prior law, including shortening the time for providing notice of claim, shortening the time for suit limitations under a property insurance contract, changing payment requirements and public adjuster activity, and making clarifications and revisions to the Florida sinkhole insurance requirements.

Insurance & Reinsurance Partner Presents at FDCC Insurance Industry Institute Program

The FDCC, composed of recognized leaders in the legal community who have achieved professional distinction, is dedicated to promoting knowledge, fellowship, and professionalism of its members as they pursue the course of a balanced justice system and represent those in need of a defense in civil lawsuits.

“Insurance Class Actions Insider” Recognized as a Top Blawg

Sarasota Magazine and Biz941 Magazine Recognize Insurance Partner as a Top Lawyer

Robinson & Cole LLP Receives Most Connecticut First-Tier Rankings in U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

The firm also received five national rankings, including a Tier 1 ranking for Litigation - Construction; a Tier 2 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law; and Tier 3 rankings for Construction Law, Tax Law, and Trusts & Estates Law.

In Wake of Hurricane Irene: Five Tips for Insurance Carriers

To read Mr. Ackerman’s blog, visit Insurance Class Actions Insider.

Attorney Delivers Presentation on Insurance Considerations for Historic Buildings in Williamsburg

The Town of Williamsburg has hundreds of restored buildings, including original 18th century structures. The time, money, research, skill, materials, and craftsmanship needed to restore the buildings is substantially different than the repair of modern buildings and structures and, accordingly, the insurance underwriting, valuations, and repair considerations also are different. The presentation and paper presented an overview of the challenges related to the repair of historic structures and the insurance underwriting and claim issues involved with insuring such structures.

Rebecca Levy-Sachs Elected a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation

Insurance Partner to Lead Property Insurance Section for Third Year

Eugene Murphy Speaks at Insurance Seminar on Litigating Coverage Claims

Robinson & Cole LLP Receives Most Connecticut First-Tier Rankings in Inaugural U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

Providence Business News Names Dana Horton As “40 Under Forty” Recipient

Robinson & Cole Attorney Hosts Green Building and Insurance Seminar in Four Offices

Insurance attorney Rebecca Levy-Sachs recently presented a program on "Green Buildings and Insurance" at the Sustainability and Climate Change breakfast seminar sponsored by Robinson & Cole’s Environmental and Utilities Practice Group. Approximately 40 clients, attorneys, and local government officials attended the 12th seminar in the series, which is simulcast in Hartford, Boston, Stamford and New York. The program provided an overview of green building standards and green building codes, the insurance industry response to green building, recent green building endorsements offered by property and builder's risk insurers; energy efficiency, green building coverage availability under policy law and ordinance provisions, and hypothetical green adjustment issues. Jon C. Held, president of JS Held, Incorporated, a national construction consulting firm headquartered in New York, served on the panel.

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present On Chinese Drywall at Meeting of New England Claim Executives Association

Insurance & Reinsurance attorney Gregory P. Varga among others presented “Chinese Drywall: The Next Asbestos or the Next Y2K?” at a recent meeting of the New England Claims Executives Association (NECEA). They discussed scientific principles and complex insurance coverage issues driving widespread litigation from allegedly defective Chinese drywall used in home construction. During the meeting, Mr. Varga was honored for his contributions to NECEA over the years as a speaker and panelist. NECEA was founded in 1930 to promote professionalism among claims people in New England.

Robinson & Cole Attorney Speaks at Insurance Coverage Litigation Conference

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Author Article for Connecticut Law Tribune on Chinese Drywall

Robinson & Cole Partners Speak at Annual PLRB Claims Conference

Robinson & Cole Insurance Attorneys Speak at PLRB/FDCC Seminar