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False Claims Act Litigation

False Claims Act (FCA) enforcement and litigation has surged over the past 20 years. Each year, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) secures several billion dollars from FCA settlements and judgments, with health care fraud comprising the largest portion of these recoveries. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 cases were filed by qui tam relators, who continue to drive significant recoveries.

Our Services

Robinson+Cole’s lawyers have defended FCA actions initiated by federal and state authorities, as well as those brought by qui tam relators, across a wide range of industries. We support clients throughout the entire life cycle of potential FCA claims, helping them avoid liability through robust internal compliance programs. We design and implement effective compliance strategies to prevent and identify areas of risk. When issues arise, we conduct thorough internal investigations and advise on self-reporting options and related employment matters.

If a qui tam relator becomes involved, we advocate for our clients before the government decides whether to intervene and handle parallel civil, criminal, and administrative investigations. Should the government choose to intervene, we negotiate reduced damage calculations, civil and criminal resolutions, and corporate integrity agreements.

Where matters cannot be settled on favorable terms, our lawyers vigorously defend our clients in civil FCA litigation and related criminal matters. We have obtained dismissals for clients based on the public disclosure bar, original source doctrine, and failure to plead with particularity, as well as securing summary judgments on issues of intent, materiality, and causation.

Our Team

Our attorneys bring diverse government and industry-specific backgrounds, leveraging their varied enforcement experience through a multidisciplinary approach. We actively speak and write about enforcement trends and participate in professional organizations that bring government and defense attorneys together.

Experience

Represented MD Labs in First Circuit Victory for Clinical Lab in False Claims Act Appeal

Successfully represented MD Labs and its owners in defending against False Claims Act allegations in U.S. ex rel. Omni Healthcare Inc. v. MD Spine Solutions LLC et al., securing summary judgment in the District of Massachusetts and a unanimous affirmation by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. This landmark decision clarified that clinical laboratories may rely on doctor’s orders to show that the test is “reasonable and necessary” and confirmed that commissions to independent contractors are not per se illegal — setting an important precedent for clinical laboratories nationwide.

Read More
Represented MD Labs in First Circuit Victory for Clinical Lab in False Claims Act Appeal

News

April 22, 2026

Danielle Tangorre Explains Significance of Groundbreaking Decision for Clinical Laboratories

Health Care Enforcement + False Claims Act Litigation team member Danielle Tangorre spoke with The Dark Report and G2 Intelligence about the significance of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit  in U.S. ex rel OMNI Healthcare v. MD Spine Solutions LLC, et al that came down in December 2025. The decision affirmed a lower court’s dismissal of a “high stakes” False Claims Act lawsuit, providing clarity for the diagnostic laboratory industry. Danielle, along with team members Edward J. Heath and Seth B. Orkand, represented MD Labs in the appeals case. Covering the decision from a legal risk perspective, The Dark Report said, “this decision creates a new 'safe harbor' for medical necessity while defining the specific boundaries where that protection ends.” Danielle explained the decision enshrined that “clinical laboratories can generally rely on a physician’s order as evidence that testing is reasonable and necessary…[T]hat’s significant because labs bill for tests but do not treat patients. They rely on the physician’s clinical judgment.” Danielle noted, however, that the relationship is collaborative and labs also have a corollary duty. Danielle also highlighted how the decision shifted the burden of proof, as the First Circuit Court focused specifically on the intent required for a lab to be held liable for fraud. “The court also clarified that if a lab relies on a physician’s order, the burden shifts to the relator to show the lab should not have relied on it—for example, if the lab influenced or usurped the physician’s decision-making,” said Tangorre. “That’s a major takeaway for laboratories.” Because Circuit Court rulings are often cited by other courts across the country, the decision provides a defensive blueprint for labs facing similar allegations. The decision “provides clarity on how courts view a lab’s role in certifying medical necessity while relying on physicians,” Danielle said.  “It essentially gives labs guardrails: Labs can rely on physician orders, but here’s where you can run into trouble. Organizations that operate cohesively and not in silos are in the best position to manage risk,” Danielle concluded. G2 Intelligence’s "Lab Industry Advisor,” another leading publication for the clinical lab industry examined the decision by focusing on compliance elements of the case. The article said a practical takeaway from the case for clinical lab directors involves the design of test requisition forms. “The courts emphasized that MD Labs did not improperly design its requisition. That’s an important lesson. Labs need to ensure requisitions are not steering or influencing test selection,” Danielle warned. “The same applies to marketing. Overpromising test value or implying broader clinical utility than supported can create risk, even if labs can generally rely on physician orders.” While the appellate ruling focused on medical necessity, it allowed the lower court’s findings on independent contractor commissions to stand. The clinical lab industry has long assumed that paying commissions to independent sales agents is “per se” violation of the Anti-Kickback Statue or the Eliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act. The MD Labs case suggests that context and compliance matter most. “Importantly, the relator did not appeal the independent contractor issue, so the finding that commission payments are not inherently illegal stands,” Danielle pointed out. “That aligns with a growing trend in the courts: Sales commissions are not automatically violations of AKS or EKRA unless there is some additional improper conduct—what I call a ‘plus factor’—such as influencing ordering behavior.” The court was persuaded by the fact that MD Labs had a robust compliance framework, Danielle said. “Independent contractors were treated similarly to employees, and compliance oversight was robust,” she added. “That’s critical.”

Dark Report
G2 Intelligence’s Lab Industry Advisor
December 4, 2025

Health Care Enforcement Team Secures First Circuit Win for Clinical Lab in False Claims Act Appeal

January 27, 2025

Health Care Enforcement Team Wins Summary Judgment in Groundbreaking False Claims Act Litigation

Law.com, Law360, G2 Intelligence, The Dark Report, Laboratory Economics, and Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
April 22, 2026

Danielle Tangorre Explains Significance of Groundbreaking Decision for Clinical Laboratories

Health Care Enforcement + False Claims Act Litigation team member Danielle Tangorre spoke with The Dark Report and G2 Intelligence about the significance of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit  in U.S. ex rel OMNI Healthcare v. MD Spine Solutions LLC, et al that came down in December 2025. The decision affirmed a lower court’s dismissal of a “high stakes” False Claims Act lawsuit, providing clarity for the diagnostic laboratory industry. Danielle, along with team members Edward J. Heath and Seth B. Orkand, represented MD Labs in the appeals case. Covering the decision from a legal risk perspective, The Dark Report said, “this decision creates a new 'safe harbor' for medical necessity while defining the specific boundaries where that protection ends.” Danielle explained the decision enshrined that “clinical laboratories can generally rely on a physician’s order as evidence that testing is reasonable and necessary…[T]hat’s significant because labs bill for tests but do not treat patients. They rely on the physician’s clinical judgment.” Danielle noted, however, that the relationship is collaborative and labs also have a corollary duty. Danielle also highlighted how the decision shifted the burden of proof, as the First Circuit Court focused specifically on the intent required for a lab to be held liable for fraud. “The court also clarified that if a lab relies on a physician’s order, the burden shifts to the relator to show the lab should not have relied on it—for example, if the lab influenced or usurped the physician’s decision-making,” said Tangorre. “That’s a major takeaway for laboratories.” Because Circuit Court rulings are often cited by other courts across the country, the decision provides a defensive blueprint for labs facing similar allegations. The decision “provides clarity on how courts view a lab’s role in certifying medical necessity while relying on physicians,” Danielle said.  “It essentially gives labs guardrails: Labs can rely on physician orders, but here’s where you can run into trouble. Organizations that operate cohesively and not in silos are in the best position to manage risk,” Danielle concluded. G2 Intelligence’s "Lab Industry Advisor,” another leading publication for the clinical lab industry examined the decision by focusing on compliance elements of the case. The article said a practical takeaway from the case for clinical lab directors involves the design of test requisition forms. “The courts emphasized that MD Labs did not improperly design its requisition. That’s an important lesson. Labs need to ensure requisitions are not steering or influencing test selection,” Danielle warned. “The same applies to marketing. Overpromising test value or implying broader clinical utility than supported can create risk, even if labs can generally rely on physician orders.” While the appellate ruling focused on medical necessity, it allowed the lower court’s findings on independent contractor commissions to stand. The clinical lab industry has long assumed that paying commissions to independent sales agents is “per se” violation of the Anti-Kickback Statue or the Eliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act. The MD Labs case suggests that context and compliance matter most. “Importantly, the relator did not appeal the independent contractor issue, so the finding that commission payments are not inherently illegal stands,” Danielle pointed out. “That aligns with a growing trend in the courts: Sales commissions are not automatically violations of AKS or EKRA unless there is some additional improper conduct—what I call a ‘plus factor’—such as influencing ordering behavior.” The court was persuaded by the fact that MD Labs had a robust compliance framework, Danielle said. “Independent contractors were treated similarly to employees, and compliance oversight was robust,” she added. “That’s critical.”

Dark Report
G2 Intelligence’s Lab Industry Advisor
December 4, 2025

Health Care Enforcement Team Secures First Circuit Win for Clinical Lab in False Claims Act Appeal

January 27, 2025

Health Care Enforcement Team Wins Summary Judgment in Groundbreaking False Claims Act Litigation

Law.com, Law360, G2 Intelligence, The Dark Report, Laboratory Economics, and Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly

Firm Highlights

Event
2026 CBIZ Manufacturing Forum

Robinson+Cole is pleased to be a Platinum Sponsor for the 2026 CBIZ Manufacturing Forum. The forum is produced in collaboration with the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology and brings together industry leaders and executives from the New England manufacturing community to share strategies, insights, and resources to elevate and advance manufacturing businesses. For more information, click here.

News
Robinson+Cole Names J. Michael Wirvin as Managing Partner

Robinson+Cole’s partnership has elected Boston Business Transactions Partner J. Michael Wirvin as its next Managing Partner, marking a pivotal moment in the firm’s 180-year history. Effective March 1, Wirvin will become the firm’s first Managing Partner based outside of Hartford, CT, reflecting Robinson+Cole’s continued evolution and expanding geographic footprint. His election underscores the firm’s deliberate, forward‑looking approach to leadership succession and long‑term strategic growth. Wirvin has served on Robinson+Cole’s Managing Committee since 2014, where he has played a central role in firm governance, strategic planning, and leadership succession, working closely with three managing partners through periods of unprecedented growth, market expansion, and changes in the legal industry. He is widely recognized for advising clients on complex domestic and cross‑border mergers and acquisitions, financings, and corporate structuring matters, with a particular focus on assisting U.S. and offshore companies navigate the legal, commercial, and cultural complexities of operating across jurisdictions. Wirvin also co‑chairs the firm’s International team. Wirvin has served as partner-in-charge of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office since 2014, reinforcing the firm’s culture, mentoring lawyers at all stages of their careers, and fostering cross‑disciplinary teamwork that strengthens client service. He recently helped lead the relocation of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office to 53 State Street, a premier downtown tower, creating a modern, light‑filled space designed to support employee well‑being with an energizing environment along with enhanced technology and workspaces that facilitate seamless remote and on-site collaboration and team building, while also promoting focused work. “It is a profound honor to be elected by my partners to serve as Managing Partner and lead this extraordinary team of lawyers and business professionals who raise the bar every day,” said Wirvin. “Our 180-year history is defined not merely by longevity, but by the trust we have earned, the results we have delivered, and the professionalism, mutual respect, and collegiality that have long defined our culture. As Managing Partner, I aim to build on that foundation—bringing strategic clarity and disciplined growth to our priorities, strengthening our national and international profile, investing in our people, and ensuring Robinson+Cole remains agile, cohesive, and well positioned to deliver practical, business‑minded solutions for clients in an increasingly complex and competitive environment.” Wirvin succeeds Rhonda J. Tobin, the firm’s first female Managing Partner, who led Robinson+Cole since 2021 and guided the firm through a period of significant transformation, growth, and innovation. Elected during the height of the COVID‑19 pandemic, Tobin brought to the role more than a decade of firm leadership experience, including service on the Managing Committee for 17 years and leadership of the firm’s Litigation Section for 14 years. During Tobin’s five-year tenure, Robinson+Cole successfully advanced and executed on a new Strategic Plan, improving profitability; expanding the firm’s New York, Boston, and Philadelphia offices; opening and growing offices in Washington, DC, and Austin, TX; and deepening leading national practices in affordable housing finance, bankruptcy, business transactions, capital markets and securities, intellectual property and technology, health care, managed care litigation, immigration, insurance, public finance, and real estate and development. Under Tobin’s leadership, the firm also strengthened its commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and talent development; launched meaningful DEIB initiatives; and made significant investments in technology, information governance, and workplace innovation. Additionally, the firm achieved top national rankings in Vault’s Best Law Firms to Work For six consecutive years. Robinson+Cole became the first Am Law 200 firm to strategically partner with agentic AI builder Newcode.ai and the first law firm in the United States to earn ARMA’s Verified Organization status, further reinforcing its position as an industry leader in innovation and information governance. Tobin’s leadership has been widely recognized, including being named Regional Managing Partner of the Year in Law.com’s 2025 New England Legal Awards and Managing Partner of the Year in the 2022 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards. She will continue to serve as chair of the firm’s lateral growth committee and will continue her leadership roles and active involvement in Connecticut’s non-profit community and as Chairperson of the Connecticut Judicial Review Council. Commenting on Wirvin’s election, Tobin stated, “Mike’s deeply rooted presence and extensive leadership experience at Robinson+Cole make him an outstanding choice to lead our firm. I have known and worked closely with Mike for more than two decades, and there is no question that he is the right person to guide us forward as technological advancements and an evolving professional landscape present new opportunities. Mike is an exceptionally talented and experienced lawyer, and a trusted confidant whose insight I consistently relied on when facing strategic decisions. He is deeply respected by our lawyers and business professionals and brings a thoughtful, strategic perspective that will greatly benefit the firm. I look forward to the firm’s continued growth and success under his leadership.” Robinson+Cole also announced several additional leadership updates reflecting the firm’s continued focus on thoughtful succession planning, geographic expansion, and strategic growth. Davis Lee Wright, who is based in the firm’s Wilmington office, has been elected to the Managing Committee, joining Britt‑Marie K. Cole‑Johnson and Edward J. Heath who are resident in the Hartford office, Eric M. Kogan in Stamford, and Charles F. Martin III in Miami. The firm recently named New York partner Erica J. Kerstein as chair of its Insurance + Reinsurance group, Stamford partner Patrick W. Begos co-chair of its Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group, and Hartford partners  Conor O. Duffy and Robert S. Melvin and as Health Law group co-chair and Land Law Section co-chair, respectively. In addition, Kendra L. Berardi will succeed Wirvin as partner in charge of the Boston office.

News
Erica Kerstein Brings Credibility and Business Perspective to New Role as Practice Group Chair

Insurance + Reinsurance group chair Erica J. Kerstein was featured in a Law.com column titled, “How I Made Practice Group Chair,” published on April 15, 2026. In the article, Erica discusses her new role as a practice group chair and how it has expanded her insight into not only the firm’s strategic vision and goals, but the reality of running a business and ensuring that current planning aligns with future goals. “The role provides a window into how individual practices fit into the firm’s overall strategy,” said Erica. “You’re thinking not just about today’s matters, but about where clients are headed, how the industry is changing, and how the firm positions itself to meet those needs.” In addition, Erica also identified “…strengthening client relationships, investing in our people, and staying ahead of emerging issues—particularly around technology and artificial intelligence in the insurance space…” as key priorities for the practice. Read the article.

Publication
How PBM Reform Suddenly Got Rolling
News
Robinson+Cole Remains A “Best Place to Work in Connecticut”
News
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”
Event
NEWIEE 15th Annual Awards Gala

Robinson+Cole is proud to once again be a Gold Sponsor of the New England Women in Energy and the Environment’s (NEWIEE) 15th Annual Awards Gala. The event celebrates the accomplishments of women in the energy and environmental fields of New England and draws attendees from across the region for an inspirational evening honoring four awardees who have distinguished themselves as drivers of change in the energy industry. Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications group partner Joey Lee Miranda serves as Chair of NEWIEE’s Development Committee and is a member, and former President, of its board of directors. For more information, click here.

News
Robinson+Cole Integrates Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research into Newcode.ai Platform to Advance Secure, Verifiable Legal Research

Robinson+Cole has expanded its firmwide artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities by integrating Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research directly into Newcode.ai, the agentic AI platform implemented last year by the firm to support legal workflows across practices. With this integration, Robinson+Cole is one of only two law firms with direct access to the Deep Research API—and the only firm deploying it through Newcode.ai. Building on its 2025 partnership with Newcode.ai —making Robinson+Cole the first Am Law 200 firm to adopt the platform—the firm has continued to expand its AI capabilities as part of a broader strategy focused on secure deployment, ethical use, and seamless integration into daily legal work. The integration enables Robinson+Cole attorneys to conduct complex, multi‑step legal research and receive verifiable, citation‑backed responses grounded in trusted Thomson Reuters content. By embedding Deep Research into Newcode.ai, Robinson+Cole continues to build on its deliberate, governance‑first approach to AI adoption while delivering meaningful, practice‑ready innovation for its lawyers and clients. “Innovation at Robinson+Cole is grounded in client service, security, and practicality,” said J. Michael Wirvin, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “By incorporating Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research directly into Newcode.ai, we are providing our lawyers with advanced research capabilities in a secure environment fully controlled by the firm that aligns with our standards for data governance, accuracy, and responsible AI use. This integration reflects our continued focus on adopting technology thoughtfully to support our attorneys and deliver value to our clients.” The addition of Deep Research allows attorneys to: Perform sophisticated legal research using agentic workflows that mirror real‑world legal reasoning Receive structured, verifiable responses grounded in Thomson Reuters data Streamline research processes while maintaining rigorous quality and accuracy standards Work entirely within Robinson+Cole’s firm‑controlled AI environment  “Our integration of the Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research API with Newcode represents a defining moment in our AI strategy,” said Chief Data Officer Jim Merrifield. "We are incredibly proud to be the first firm to bring this capability to life—unlocking the power of trusted legal data directly within the workflows our lawyers and business professionals rely on every day. This is exactly how we maximize our technology investments: by connecting best-in-class data sources through APIs into a unified platform, so the technology meets our people where they work, enhances their judgment, and accelerates better outcomes for our clients.” Robinson+Cole’s AI program is guided by firmwide policies, mandatory training, and ongoing oversight to ensure responsible use of emerging technologies. The firm’s approach emphasizes measured adoption, strong information governance, and alignment with client expectations, rather than one‑off experimentation. This latest enhancement underscores Robinson+Cole’s commitment to remaining forward‑thinking in its use of technology, while ensuring that innovation serves the firm’s clients, lawyers, and long‑term strategic goals.

News
Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards
News
Robinson+Cole’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
Event
2026 CBIZ Manufacturing Forum

Robinson+Cole is pleased to be a Platinum Sponsor for the 2026 CBIZ Manufacturing Forum. The forum is produced in collaboration with the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology and brings together industry leaders and executives from the New England manufacturing community to share strategies, insights, and resources to elevate and advance manufacturing businesses. For more information, click here.

News
Robinson+Cole Names J. Michael Wirvin as Managing Partner

Robinson+Cole’s partnership has elected Boston Business Transactions Partner J. Michael Wirvin as its next Managing Partner, marking a pivotal moment in the firm’s 180-year history. Effective March 1, Wirvin will become the firm’s first Managing Partner based outside of Hartford, CT, reflecting Robinson+Cole’s continued evolution and expanding geographic footprint. His election underscores the firm’s deliberate, forward‑looking approach to leadership succession and long‑term strategic growth. Wirvin has served on Robinson+Cole’s Managing Committee since 2014, where he has played a central role in firm governance, strategic planning, and leadership succession, working closely with three managing partners through periods of unprecedented growth, market expansion, and changes in the legal industry. He is widely recognized for advising clients on complex domestic and cross‑border mergers and acquisitions, financings, and corporate structuring matters, with a particular focus on assisting U.S. and offshore companies navigate the legal, commercial, and cultural complexities of operating across jurisdictions. Wirvin also co‑chairs the firm’s International team. Wirvin has served as partner-in-charge of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office since 2014, reinforcing the firm’s culture, mentoring lawyers at all stages of their careers, and fostering cross‑disciplinary teamwork that strengthens client service. He recently helped lead the relocation of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office to 53 State Street, a premier downtown tower, creating a modern, light‑filled space designed to support employee well‑being with an energizing environment along with enhanced technology and workspaces that facilitate seamless remote and on-site collaboration and team building, while also promoting focused work. “It is a profound honor to be elected by my partners to serve as Managing Partner and lead this extraordinary team of lawyers and business professionals who raise the bar every day,” said Wirvin. “Our 180-year history is defined not merely by longevity, but by the trust we have earned, the results we have delivered, and the professionalism, mutual respect, and collegiality that have long defined our culture. As Managing Partner, I aim to build on that foundation—bringing strategic clarity and disciplined growth to our priorities, strengthening our national and international profile, investing in our people, and ensuring Robinson+Cole remains agile, cohesive, and well positioned to deliver practical, business‑minded solutions for clients in an increasingly complex and competitive environment.” Wirvin succeeds Rhonda J. Tobin, the firm’s first female Managing Partner, who led Robinson+Cole since 2021 and guided the firm through a period of significant transformation, growth, and innovation. Elected during the height of the COVID‑19 pandemic, Tobin brought to the role more than a decade of firm leadership experience, including service on the Managing Committee for 17 years and leadership of the firm’s Litigation Section for 14 years. During Tobin’s five-year tenure, Robinson+Cole successfully advanced and executed on a new Strategic Plan, improving profitability; expanding the firm’s New York, Boston, and Philadelphia offices; opening and growing offices in Washington, DC, and Austin, TX; and deepening leading national practices in affordable housing finance, bankruptcy, business transactions, capital markets and securities, intellectual property and technology, health care, managed care litigation, immigration, insurance, public finance, and real estate and development. Under Tobin’s leadership, the firm also strengthened its commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and talent development; launched meaningful DEIB initiatives; and made significant investments in technology, information governance, and workplace innovation. Additionally, the firm achieved top national rankings in Vault’s Best Law Firms to Work For six consecutive years. Robinson+Cole became the first Am Law 200 firm to strategically partner with agentic AI builder Newcode.ai and the first law firm in the United States to earn ARMA’s Verified Organization status, further reinforcing its position as an industry leader in innovation and information governance. Tobin’s leadership has been widely recognized, including being named Regional Managing Partner of the Year in Law.com’s 2025 New England Legal Awards and Managing Partner of the Year in the 2022 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards. She will continue to serve as chair of the firm’s lateral growth committee and will continue her leadership roles and active involvement in Connecticut’s non-profit community and as Chairperson of the Connecticut Judicial Review Council. Commenting on Wirvin’s election, Tobin stated, “Mike’s deeply rooted presence and extensive leadership experience at Robinson+Cole make him an outstanding choice to lead our firm. I have known and worked closely with Mike for more than two decades, and there is no question that he is the right person to guide us forward as technological advancements and an evolving professional landscape present new opportunities. Mike is an exceptionally talented and experienced lawyer, and a trusted confidant whose insight I consistently relied on when facing strategic decisions. He is deeply respected by our lawyers and business professionals and brings a thoughtful, strategic perspective that will greatly benefit the firm. I look forward to the firm’s continued growth and success under his leadership.” Robinson+Cole also announced several additional leadership updates reflecting the firm’s continued focus on thoughtful succession planning, geographic expansion, and strategic growth. Davis Lee Wright, who is based in the firm’s Wilmington office, has been elected to the Managing Committee, joining Britt‑Marie K. Cole‑Johnson and Edward J. Heath who are resident in the Hartford office, Eric M. Kogan in Stamford, and Charles F. Martin III in Miami. The firm recently named New York partner Erica J. Kerstein as chair of its Insurance + Reinsurance group, Stamford partner Patrick W. Begos co-chair of its Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group, and Hartford partners  Conor O. Duffy and Robert S. Melvin and as Health Law group co-chair and Land Law Section co-chair, respectively. In addition, Kendra L. Berardi will succeed Wirvin as partner in charge of the Boston office.

News
Erica Kerstein Brings Credibility and Business Perspective to New Role as Practice Group Chair

Insurance + Reinsurance group chair Erica J. Kerstein was featured in a Law.com column titled, “How I Made Practice Group Chair,” published on April 15, 2026. In the article, Erica discusses her new role as a practice group chair and how it has expanded her insight into not only the firm’s strategic vision and goals, but the reality of running a business and ensuring that current planning aligns with future goals. “The role provides a window into how individual practices fit into the firm’s overall strategy,” said Erica. “You’re thinking not just about today’s matters, but about where clients are headed, how the industry is changing, and how the firm positions itself to meet those needs.” In addition, Erica also identified “…strengthening client relationships, investing in our people, and staying ahead of emerging issues—particularly around technology and artificial intelligence in the insurance space…” as key priorities for the practice. Read the article.

Publication
How PBM Reform Suddenly Got Rolling
News
Robinson+Cole Remains A “Best Place to Work in Connecticut”
News
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”
Event
NEWIEE 15th Annual Awards Gala

Robinson+Cole is proud to once again be a Gold Sponsor of the New England Women in Energy and the Environment’s (NEWIEE) 15th Annual Awards Gala. The event celebrates the accomplishments of women in the energy and environmental fields of New England and draws attendees from across the region for an inspirational evening honoring four awardees who have distinguished themselves as drivers of change in the energy industry. Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications group partner Joey Lee Miranda serves as Chair of NEWIEE’s Development Committee and is a member, and former President, of its board of directors. For more information, click here.

News
Robinson+Cole Integrates Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research into Newcode.ai Platform to Advance Secure, Verifiable Legal Research

Robinson+Cole has expanded its firmwide artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities by integrating Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research directly into Newcode.ai, the agentic AI platform implemented last year by the firm to support legal workflows across practices. With this integration, Robinson+Cole is one of only two law firms with direct access to the Deep Research API—and the only firm deploying it through Newcode.ai. Building on its 2025 partnership with Newcode.ai —making Robinson+Cole the first Am Law 200 firm to adopt the platform—the firm has continued to expand its AI capabilities as part of a broader strategy focused on secure deployment, ethical use, and seamless integration into daily legal work. The integration enables Robinson+Cole attorneys to conduct complex, multi‑step legal research and receive verifiable, citation‑backed responses grounded in trusted Thomson Reuters content. By embedding Deep Research into Newcode.ai, Robinson+Cole continues to build on its deliberate, governance‑first approach to AI adoption while delivering meaningful, practice‑ready innovation for its lawyers and clients. “Innovation at Robinson+Cole is grounded in client service, security, and practicality,” said J. Michael Wirvin, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “By incorporating Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research directly into Newcode.ai, we are providing our lawyers with advanced research capabilities in a secure environment fully controlled by the firm that aligns with our standards for data governance, accuracy, and responsible AI use. This integration reflects our continued focus on adopting technology thoughtfully to support our attorneys and deliver value to our clients.” The addition of Deep Research allows attorneys to: Perform sophisticated legal research using agentic workflows that mirror real‑world legal reasoning Receive structured, verifiable responses grounded in Thomson Reuters data Streamline research processes while maintaining rigorous quality and accuracy standards Work entirely within Robinson+Cole’s firm‑controlled AI environment  “Our integration of the Thomson Reuters’ Deep Research API with Newcode represents a defining moment in our AI strategy,” said Chief Data Officer Jim Merrifield. "We are incredibly proud to be the first firm to bring this capability to life—unlocking the power of trusted legal data directly within the workflows our lawyers and business professionals rely on every day. This is exactly how we maximize our technology investments: by connecting best-in-class data sources through APIs into a unified platform, so the technology meets our people where they work, enhances their judgment, and accelerates better outcomes for our clients.” Robinson+Cole’s AI program is guided by firmwide policies, mandatory training, and ongoing oversight to ensure responsible use of emerging technologies. The firm’s approach emphasizes measured adoption, strong information governance, and alignment with client expectations, rather than one‑off experimentation. This latest enhancement underscores Robinson+Cole’s commitment to remaining forward‑thinking in its use of technology, while ensuring that innovation serves the firm’s clients, lawyers, and long‑term strategic goals.

News
Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards
News
Robinson+Cole’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
Event
2026 CBIZ Manufacturing Forum

Robinson+Cole is pleased to be a Platinum Sponsor for the 2026 CBIZ Manufacturing Forum. The forum is produced in collaboration with the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology and brings together industry leaders and executives from the New England manufacturing community to share strategies, insights, and resources to elevate and advance manufacturing businesses. For more information, click here.

News
Robinson+Cole Names J. Michael Wirvin as Managing Partner

Robinson+Cole’s partnership has elected Boston Business Transactions Partner J. Michael Wirvin as its next Managing Partner, marking a pivotal moment in the firm’s 180-year history. Effective March 1, Wirvin will become the firm’s first Managing Partner based outside of Hartford, CT, reflecting Robinson+Cole’s continued evolution and expanding geographic footprint. His election underscores the firm’s deliberate, forward‑looking approach to leadership succession and long‑term strategic growth. Wirvin has served on Robinson+Cole’s Managing Committee since 2014, where he has played a central role in firm governance, strategic planning, and leadership succession, working closely with three managing partners through periods of unprecedented growth, market expansion, and changes in the legal industry. He is widely recognized for advising clients on complex domestic and cross‑border mergers and acquisitions, financings, and corporate structuring matters, with a particular focus on assisting U.S. and offshore companies navigate the legal, commercial, and cultural complexities of operating across jurisdictions. Wirvin also co‑chairs the firm’s International team. Wirvin has served as partner-in-charge of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office since 2014, reinforcing the firm’s culture, mentoring lawyers at all stages of their careers, and fostering cross‑disciplinary teamwork that strengthens client service. He recently helped lead the relocation of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office to 53 State Street, a premier downtown tower, creating a modern, light‑filled space designed to support employee well‑being with an energizing environment along with enhanced technology and workspaces that facilitate seamless remote and on-site collaboration and team building, while also promoting focused work. “It is a profound honor to be elected by my partners to serve as Managing Partner and lead this extraordinary team of lawyers and business professionals who raise the bar every day,” said Wirvin. “Our 180-year history is defined not merely by longevity, but by the trust we have earned, the results we have delivered, and the professionalism, mutual respect, and collegiality that have long defined our culture. As Managing Partner, I aim to build on that foundation—bringing strategic clarity and disciplined growth to our priorities, strengthening our national and international profile, investing in our people, and ensuring Robinson+Cole remains agile, cohesive, and well positioned to deliver practical, business‑minded solutions for clients in an increasingly complex and competitive environment.” Wirvin succeeds Rhonda J. Tobin, the firm’s first female Managing Partner, who led Robinson+Cole since 2021 and guided the firm through a period of significant transformation, growth, and innovation. Elected during the height of the COVID‑19 pandemic, Tobin brought to the role more than a decade of firm leadership experience, including service on the Managing Committee for 17 years and leadership of the firm’s Litigation Section for 14 years. During Tobin’s five-year tenure, Robinson+Cole successfully advanced and executed on a new Strategic Plan, improving profitability; expanding the firm’s New York, Boston, and Philadelphia offices; opening and growing offices in Washington, DC, and Austin, TX; and deepening leading national practices in affordable housing finance, bankruptcy, business transactions, capital markets and securities, intellectual property and technology, health care, managed care litigation, immigration, insurance, public finance, and real estate and development. Under Tobin’s leadership, the firm also strengthened its commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and talent development; launched meaningful DEIB initiatives; and made significant investments in technology, information governance, and workplace innovation. Additionally, the firm achieved top national rankings in Vault’s Best Law Firms to Work For six consecutive years. Robinson+Cole became the first Am Law 200 firm to strategically partner with agentic AI builder Newcode.ai and the first law firm in the United States to earn ARMA’s Verified Organization status, further reinforcing its position as an industry leader in innovation and information governance. Tobin’s leadership has been widely recognized, including being named Regional Managing Partner of the Year in Law.com’s 2025 New England Legal Awards and Managing Partner of the Year in the 2022 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards. She will continue to serve as chair of the firm’s lateral growth committee and will continue her leadership roles and active involvement in Connecticut’s non-profit community and as Chairperson of the Connecticut Judicial Review Council. Commenting on Wirvin’s election, Tobin stated, “Mike’s deeply rooted presence and extensive leadership experience at Robinson+Cole make him an outstanding choice to lead our firm. I have known and worked closely with Mike for more than two decades, and there is no question that he is the right person to guide us forward as technological advancements and an evolving professional landscape present new opportunities. Mike is an exceptionally talented and experienced lawyer, and a trusted confidant whose insight I consistently relied on when facing strategic decisions. He is deeply respected by our lawyers and business professionals and brings a thoughtful, strategic perspective that will greatly benefit the firm. I look forward to the firm’s continued growth and success under his leadership.” Robinson+Cole also announced several additional leadership updates reflecting the firm’s continued focus on thoughtful succession planning, geographic expansion, and strategic growth. Davis Lee Wright, who is based in the firm’s Wilmington office, has been elected to the Managing Committee, joining Britt‑Marie K. Cole‑Johnson and Edward J. Heath who are resident in the Hartford office, Eric M. Kogan in Stamford, and Charles F. Martin III in Miami. The firm recently named New York partner Erica J. Kerstein as chair of its Insurance + Reinsurance group, Stamford partner Patrick W. Begos co-chair of its Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group, and Hartford partners  Conor O. Duffy and Robert S. Melvin and as Health Law group co-chair and Land Law Section co-chair, respectively. In addition, Kendra L. Berardi will succeed Wirvin as partner in charge of the Boston office.

News
Erica Kerstein Brings Credibility and Business Perspective to New Role as Practice Group Chair

Insurance + Reinsurance group chair Erica J. Kerstein was featured in a Law.com column titled, “How I Made Practice Group Chair,” published on April 15, 2026. In the article, Erica discusses her new role as a practice group chair and how it has expanded her insight into not only the firm’s strategic vision and goals, but the reality of running a business and ensuring that current planning aligns with future goals. “The role provides a window into how individual practices fit into the firm’s overall strategy,” said Erica. “You’re thinking not just about today’s matters, but about where clients are headed, how the industry is changing, and how the firm positions itself to meet those needs.” In addition, Erica also identified “…strengthening client relationships, investing in our people, and staying ahead of emerging issues—particularly around technology and artificial intelligence in the insurance space…” as key priorities for the practice. Read the article.

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