New York Partner David Rodrigues on the Power of Collaboration in Client Service
Leveraging firmwide resources to better serve client needs.
As Robinson+Cole continues to grow its national platform, lateral attorneys offer valuable insight into the firm's culture and client-service approach. In this Attorney Spotlight, Christine B. Cottrell, the firm's Senior Manager, Lateral Partner Recruiting, speaks with Partner David D. Rodrigues about what attracted him to Robinson+Cole, how the firm's collaborative environment supports his intellectual property practice, and the opportunities the platform provides to better serve clients.
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Read our cookie policy.Christine B. Cottrell (Christine): What was your impression of the firm during the recruiting process? How has that manifested itself?
David D. Rodrigues (David): The recruiting process was very thorough! I met a lot of people through multiple interviews, which gave me a real sense of the people here, their practices, and the firm's culture.
Of course, you never fully know what an organization is like until you're behind the doors, but Robinson+Cole emphasized its culture, collegiality, and friendly environment throughout the process. A lot of firms talk about those things. What I've found since joining is that Robinson+Cole truly practices those philosophies and principles. As a lateral, you're the new person on the block and don't know what to expect, so it's been reassuring to find that the culture the firm presented during recruiting is genuinely reflected in day-to-day life.
I was looking for a firm that could provide a broader range of services to clients, and I found it. Having access to colleagues across practices who are always happy to help allows me to respond to issues that may fall outside my core practice and connect clients with the right resources quickly.
Christine: What have you enjoyed most about integrating into the firm—whether through colleagues, clients, mentorship, or community involvement?
David: I've really enjoyed the opportunity to connect with colleagues across the firm. I like walking into people's offices rather than just sending an email. It helps me get to know people and build relationships.
I've also appreciated the opportunity to attend events in different offices and industries. For example, I attended a food and beverage event in Stamford where I met prospective clients and made connections with people in the industry. The ability to meet colleagues and contacts in person has expanded my professional network. Overall, the firm is very supportive of my involvement with events and organizations that are important to my practice.
Christine: Can you share a project, collaboration, or client experience that reflects why your practice is such a good fit here?
David: Collaboration is a significant part of my practice. While I occasionally handle litigation matters, I wouldn't describe myself as a full-time litigator. Recently, I was helping a client in the footwear industry with intellectual property matters when an additional issue arose involving a substantial debt that the client was trying to recover.
I reached out to a colleague who handles that type of work, and within a day, an engagement letter had been prepared and sent, and we had begun our work on that matter. That responsiveness demonstrated the value of having a full-service platform behind me. It helped the client address an immediate need and reinforced that we can support clients across a wide range of legal issues.
Whether it's intellectual property, business disputes, or another legal need, I know there are colleagues I can call on to help deliver the right solution. That ability to work across practices helps us respond quickly and effectively for clients.
Christine: For those who may not know your work yet, how would you describe your practice focus and the value you aim to bring to clients?
David: My practice is primarily focused on copyright, patent, and trademark prosecution, although I handle other matters as well. My clients mainly consist of clothing and apparel manufacturing and design. I also represent brand management firms aiding in the management of intellectual property in apparel, cosmetics, and lifestyle industries.
I help clients solve legal issues while connecting them with the broader resources of the firm when additional needs arise. Having access to experienced lawyers, specialists, and support staff allows me to provide solutions that go beyond my individual practice area.
Christine: Outside the practice of law, what do you enjoy doing that helps people get to know you on a personal level?
I enjoy staying active and being outside. I recently took up long-distance running and have been participating in 5K races. Earlier this year, I joined colleagues in the New York J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge.
I also enjoy biking, tennis, pickleball, golf, and sports in general. Before having children, I used to brew my own beer, although that's become a little more difficult with a 7-year-old and a 3½-year-old at home. These days, much of my time outside the office revolves around family and staying active.
David's experience reflects what many attorneys discover after joining Robinson+Cole: a collaborative culture, strong professional relationships, and a platform that helps lawyers meet clients' evolving needs. Through connections across practices, offices, and industries, he has been able to expand the services available to his clients while continuing to grow his practice. For attorneys seeking a collaborative environment and opportunities to build meaningful client relationships, Robinson+Cole offers a strong foundation for long-term success. Those considering a next step in their careers are encouraged to connect with the firm’s legal recruiting team to learn more.
