Janet (Zhanna) Kljyan has developed extensive experience with helping businesses and other institutional clients litigate and resolve their disputes across an array of industries, including real estate, health care, technology, insurance, manufacturing, education and non-profits. She routinely handles cases before federal and state courts and administrative agencies in New York as well as courts in other jurisdictions involving issues of contract, intellectual property, trade secrets, unfair trade practices, land use, and employment disputes. Janet is a member of our firm’s Business Litigation group and a secondary member of the Intellectual Property + Technology Group.
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Janet (Zhanna) Kljyan
Partner
she/her/hers
Experience
Banking Institution Breach of Contract
Defended banking institution in breach of contract and misappropriation action brought by software technology company based on alleged breaches of a software licensing agreement. Won pre-answer motion to dismiss prior to engaging in discovery.
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Tech Companies in Breach of Contract
Defended two global technology companies in breach of contract action brought by 15 individuals in federal court in Ohio. Won pre-answer motion to dismiss prior to engaging in discovery.
Business Litigation: Picasso Sculpture Sale
Defended family in fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, and related claims brought by a New York City-based art dealer stemming from the purchase and subsequent sale of a Picasso sculpture for over $20 million. Won pre-answer motion to dismiss prior to engaging in discovery.
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Publications
March 2025
Be in the Know: How to Protect Your Business From Predatory Lawsuits
Food and Beverage Magazine
May 24, 2024
Legal Update: Supreme Court Decision Could Increase Copyright Trolling in the Second Circuit
February 14, 2024
‘Yellowstone’ Injunctions: Navigating the Wild West of Commercial Lease Disputes
New York Law Journal
The Yellowstone injunction is implicated in nearly every lease for commercial real property in the state of New York, yet most landlords and tenants do not know what it is or how it affects them. Below is a succinct overview of its implications so that commercial landlords and tenants can better navigate lease disputes. Stopping the Clock on a Cure Period Yellowstone injunctions take their name not from the popular neo-Western drama series but from the New York Court of Appeals case of First National Stores v. Yellowstone Shopping Center that created this limited-purpose injunction. In that case, the landlord and tenant disagreed about who was responsible for installing a sprinkler system, which the court ultimately decided was the tenant’s responsibility. Although the tenant was able and willing to make the installation once the court said so, the tenant had not asked to pause the cure period, and the landlord had terminated the lease for default. New York’s highest court decided it was not empowered to extend the tenant’s deadline to cure its default and upheld the lease termination. This case conceptualized and gave rise to the remedy referred to a Yellowstone injunction. Its purpose is to stop the running of the applicable cure period: it prevents a commercial landlord from prematurely terminating a lease for default until a court decides whether the alleged default is proper or not. Only a commercial tenant can ask for such an injunction, and it must demonstrate that: (1) it has received a notice of default, notice to cure, or a threat of termination; (2) it has made its request to the court for an injunction prior to the termination of the lease; and (3) it is willing and able to cure the alleged default. Since these three factors are relatively easy to prove, such injunctions are commonly granted. Although Yellowstone injunctions are a tenant’s remedy, they are not always one-sided and can provide protections for a landlord. New York courts have imposed conditions on injunctions meant to protect the landlord during the period of the stay. For example, in disputes concerning defaults unrelated to the payment of rent, courts have conditioned the injunction on the continued payment of rent or the posting of a bond. In disputes concerning the payment of rent, courts have required the tenant to deposit rent arrears in a jointly held escrow account and deposit monthly sums equal to rent in the account for the duration of the injunction. Practical Implications From a tenant’s perspective, time is often of the essence. Because most cure periods can be quite short (7 to 10 calendar days is typical), a tenant must act quickly if it receives a notice of default or notice of cure. This should involve having an attorney review the notice and the lease, assess whether an injunction remedy is available, and, if so, make an emergency application in court to stop the clock on the cure period. Acting quickly not only preserves the tenant’s right to cure its default down the road if the court decides against the tenant, but it also provides the tenant some leverage by engaging the landlord in urgent litigation. From a landlord’s perspective, these practical implications have led many landlords to require a tenant to waive its right to seek such an injunction. These waivers often go beyond Yellowstone injunctions to waive a tenant’s right to bring a lawsuit for a “declaratory judgment”—meaning a lawsuit brought in the Supreme Court of New York seeking an interpretation of the lease and giving the parties access to full discovery. As a result of such a waiver, tenants are typically limited to bringing their claims in an expedited, streamlined proceeding in the landlord-tenant part of the local court, which does not typically allow for discovery (and is, thus, less costly for the landlord). However, a wave of new laws arose in 2019 with respect to declaratory judgment waivers, making it prudent for landlords to take stock of their commercial leases well before a dispute arises. In 2019, the Court of Appeals upheld the enforceability of a lease provision waiving a commercial tenant’s right to bring an action for a declaratory judgment. In the case decided by the court, the Yellowstone injunction requested by the tenant as part of the action was also denied as waived. Almost immediately, in response to the Court of Appeals decision, the New York State Legislature passed a law prohibiting such declaratory judgment waivers effective Dec. 20, 2019. Section 235-h of the New York Real Property prohibits and nullifies any provision in a commercial lease “waiving or prohibiting the right of any tenant to bring a declaratory judgment action with respect to any provision, term or condition” of its commercial lease. Section 235-h raises more questions than it answers. First, Section 235-h has been interpreted to only apply to leases signed after Dec. 20, 2019. Therefore, waivers of declaratory judgment actions contained in older leases can still be enforceable. Second, the prohibition’s scope is unclear and has not yet been tested in court. Section 235-h prohibits waiving the remedy of a “declaratory judgment action,” but a Yellowstone injunction can still be available to tenants in other types of actions as well. This creates opportunities and risks for both tenants and landlords. From a tenant’s perspective, a tenant whose lease only waives “declaratory judgment” actions can try to frame its lawsuit as one for breach of contract (i.e., a breach of the lease) and seek a Yellowstone injunction in that context. Although this type of action may not be ideal for the tenant, it is a potential workaround of the waiver that creates the same urgency and leverage that can promote an out-of-court resolution. From a landlord’s perspective, a landlord may still try to require a more limited waiver of only a Yellowstone injunction (not declaratory judgments broadly) because Section 235-h does not call out Yellowstone injunctions specifically. Tenants, in turn, may try to resist or negotiate such a waiver depending on their relative bargaining power. Negotiations could include lengthening the cure period in exchange for a waiver or requiring the parties to participate in a mediation before the lease can be terminated. Yellowstone injunctions and related waivers are frequently litigated, making it essential to stay updated on changes in the law. Janet Kljyan is a member of Robinson+Cole’s business litigation group and Charles F. Martin III is a partner in the firm’s real estate and development group. Reprinted with permission from the February 14, 2024 edition of the New York Law Journal© 2023 ALM Global Properties, LLC. All rights reserved. Further duplication without permission is prohibited, contact 877-256-2472 or asset-and-logo-licensing@alm.com
March 2025
Be in the Know: How to Protect Your Business From Predatory Lawsuits
Food and Beverage Magazine
May 24, 2024
Legal Update: Supreme Court Decision Could Increase Copyright Trolling in the Second Circuit
February 14, 2024
‘Yellowstone’ Injunctions: Navigating the Wild West of Commercial Lease Disputes
New York Law Journal
The Yellowstone injunction is implicated in nearly every lease for commercial real property in the state of New York, yet most landlords and tenants do not know what it is or how it affects them. Below is a succinct overview of its implications so that commercial landlords and tenants can better navigate lease disputes. Stopping the Clock on a Cure Period Yellowstone injunctions take their name not from the popular neo-Western drama series but from the New York Court of Appeals case of First National Stores v. Yellowstone Shopping Center that created this limited-purpose injunction. In that case, the landlord and tenant disagreed about who was responsible for installing a sprinkler system, which the court ultimately decided was the tenant’s responsibility. Although the tenant was able and willing to make the installation once the court said so, the tenant had not asked to pause the cure period, and the landlord had terminated the lease for default. New York’s highest court decided it was not empowered to extend the tenant’s deadline to cure its default and upheld the lease termination. This case conceptualized and gave rise to the remedy referred to a Yellowstone injunction. Its purpose is to stop the running of the applicable cure period: it prevents a commercial landlord from prematurely terminating a lease for default until a court decides whether the alleged default is proper or not. Only a commercial tenant can ask for such an injunction, and it must demonstrate that: (1) it has received a notice of default, notice to cure, or a threat of termination; (2) it has made its request to the court for an injunction prior to the termination of the lease; and (3) it is willing and able to cure the alleged default. Since these three factors are relatively easy to prove, such injunctions are commonly granted. Although Yellowstone injunctions are a tenant’s remedy, they are not always one-sided and can provide protections for a landlord. New York courts have imposed conditions on injunctions meant to protect the landlord during the period of the stay. For example, in disputes concerning defaults unrelated to the payment of rent, courts have conditioned the injunction on the continued payment of rent or the posting of a bond. In disputes concerning the payment of rent, courts have required the tenant to deposit rent arrears in a jointly held escrow account and deposit monthly sums equal to rent in the account for the duration of the injunction. Practical Implications From a tenant’s perspective, time is often of the essence. Because most cure periods can be quite short (7 to 10 calendar days is typical), a tenant must act quickly if it receives a notice of default or notice of cure. This should involve having an attorney review the notice and the lease, assess whether an injunction remedy is available, and, if so, make an emergency application in court to stop the clock on the cure period. Acting quickly not only preserves the tenant’s right to cure its default down the road if the court decides against the tenant, but it also provides the tenant some leverage by engaging the landlord in urgent litigation. From a landlord’s perspective, these practical implications have led many landlords to require a tenant to waive its right to seek such an injunction. These waivers often go beyond Yellowstone injunctions to waive a tenant’s right to bring a lawsuit for a “declaratory judgment”—meaning a lawsuit brought in the Supreme Court of New York seeking an interpretation of the lease and giving the parties access to full discovery. As a result of such a waiver, tenants are typically limited to bringing their claims in an expedited, streamlined proceeding in the landlord-tenant part of the local court, which does not typically allow for discovery (and is, thus, less costly for the landlord). However, a wave of new laws arose in 2019 with respect to declaratory judgment waivers, making it prudent for landlords to take stock of their commercial leases well before a dispute arises. In 2019, the Court of Appeals upheld the enforceability of a lease provision waiving a commercial tenant’s right to bring an action for a declaratory judgment. In the case decided by the court, the Yellowstone injunction requested by the tenant as part of the action was also denied as waived. Almost immediately, in response to the Court of Appeals decision, the New York State Legislature passed a law prohibiting such declaratory judgment waivers effective Dec. 20, 2019. Section 235-h of the New York Real Property prohibits and nullifies any provision in a commercial lease “waiving or prohibiting the right of any tenant to bring a declaratory judgment action with respect to any provision, term or condition” of its commercial lease. Section 235-h raises more questions than it answers. First, Section 235-h has been interpreted to only apply to leases signed after Dec. 20, 2019. Therefore, waivers of declaratory judgment actions contained in older leases can still be enforceable. Second, the prohibition’s scope is unclear and has not yet been tested in court. Section 235-h prohibits waiving the remedy of a “declaratory judgment action,” but a Yellowstone injunction can still be available to tenants in other types of actions as well. This creates opportunities and risks for both tenants and landlords. From a tenant’s perspective, a tenant whose lease only waives “declaratory judgment” actions can try to frame its lawsuit as one for breach of contract (i.e., a breach of the lease) and seek a Yellowstone injunction in that context. Although this type of action may not be ideal for the tenant, it is a potential workaround of the waiver that creates the same urgency and leverage that can promote an out-of-court resolution. From a landlord’s perspective, a landlord may still try to require a more limited waiver of only a Yellowstone injunction (not declaratory judgments broadly) because Section 235-h does not call out Yellowstone injunctions specifically. Tenants, in turn, may try to resist or negotiate such a waiver depending on their relative bargaining power. Negotiations could include lengthening the cure period in exchange for a waiver or requiring the parties to participate in a mediation before the lease can be terminated. Yellowstone injunctions and related waivers are frequently litigated, making it essential to stay updated on changes in the law. Janet Kljyan is a member of Robinson+Cole’s business litigation group and Charles F. Martin III is a partner in the firm’s real estate and development group. Reprinted with permission from the February 14, 2024 edition of the New York Law Journal© 2023 ALM Global Properties, LLC. All rights reserved. Further duplication without permission is prohibited, contact 877-256-2472 or asset-and-logo-licensing@alm.com
January 6, 2023
Legal Update: FTC Proposes Rule Prohibiting Employee Noncompete Agreements and Broadly-Worded Non-Disclosure Agreements
March 21, 2022
Avoid ‘Deadnaming’: How Universities and Colleges Can Get Ahead of Preferred Name Usage
University Business
The article covers challenges facing universities and colleges around the country from growing requests by students to identify themselves by a preferred or chosen name in place of the student’s legal name. The authors suggest that having a clear and thoughtful policy in place to address preferred name usage will help avoid “ad hoc or case-by-case determinations to grant such requests for a few reasons.” Universities and colleges may want to review a number of considerations as develop their policies, including: “(1) the logistics of establishing and utilizing a preferred name, (2) matters requiring the use of a legal name, and (3) identifying instances that may warrant rejecting a student’s request to use a preferred name.” View the article.
September 27, 2021
Legal Update: The Ever-Changing Landscape of Non-Compete Agreements – Recent Developments
April 10, 2020
Legal Update: Recent Amendments to Home Care Worker Wage Parity Law
January 6, 2023
Legal Update: FTC Proposes Rule Prohibiting Employee Noncompete Agreements and Broadly-Worded Non-Disclosure Agreements
March 21, 2022
Avoid ‘Deadnaming’: How Universities and Colleges Can Get Ahead of Preferred Name Usage
University Business
The article covers challenges facing universities and colleges around the country from growing requests by students to identify themselves by a preferred or chosen name in place of the student’s legal name. The authors suggest that having a clear and thoughtful policy in place to address preferred name usage will help avoid “ad hoc or case-by-case determinations to grant such requests for a few reasons.” Universities and colleges may want to review a number of considerations as develop their policies, including: “(1) the logistics of establishing and utilizing a preferred name, (2) matters requiring the use of a legal name, and (3) identifying instances that may warrant rejecting a student’s request to use a preferred name.” View the article.
September 27, 2021
Legal Update: The Ever-Changing Landscape of Non-Compete Agreements – Recent Developments
April 10, 2020
Legal Update: Recent Amendments to Home Care Worker Wage Parity Law
News
October 3, 2025
Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Practice Earns Dual Recognitions at Turnaround Atlas Awards
Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group won awards for both “Out of Court Restructuring of the Year” and “Healthcare Restructuring of the Year” presented by Global M&A Network at its 17th Annual Turnaround Atlas Awards. The event was hosted on September 23, 2025, at the Metropolitan Club in New York, NY. The “Out of Court Restructuring of the Year” award was presented for the secured party sale of Gander Group, a recognized leader in casino continuity and loyalty programs, to Stran Loyalty Solutions, LLC, a leading outsourced marketing solutions provider that leverages its promotional products and loyalty incentive expertise. Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group co-chair, Patrick M. Birney, led the acquisition, which created value by combining Gander Groups’ established presence and expertise in casino loyalty programs with Stran’s operational infrastructure and broad customer base, enabling cross-selling, operational efficiencies, and expended market reach, with projected revenue and cash flow growth. Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group also received the “Healthcare Restructuring of the Year” award for its representation of the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in In re Mariner Health Central Inc. (N.D. Calif. 2022-23). The team representing the committee included Bankruptcy + Reorganizations co-chair Natalie D. Ramsey and partners Jamie L. Edmonson and Rachel Jaffe Mauceri, as well as Robinson+Cole attorneys John L. Cordani, Curtis J. Crowther, Tasnuva (Taz) Islam, and Janet (Zhanna) Kljyan. The debtors were three members of a corporate family (Mariner Health Care) that oversaw, managed, and operated approximately 20 skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) in California, plus additional facilities outside California. Robinson+Cole's co-representation of the Mariner Committee led significantly to the resolution of all of the litigation pending against the debtors and their non-debtor affiliates and a consensual plan. The firm’s co-committee advisors included co-counsel Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hamilton, LLP and Committee financial advisor, Province. Other key professionals included the Mariner Debtors’ advisors, Raines Feldman Littrell LLP, Pachulski, Stang, Ziehl & Jones and Sierra Constellation Partners. “We’re deeply honored by these recognitions, which underscore the sophistication and tenacity of our Bankruptcy + Reorganizations attorneys,” said Natalie Ramsey. “Each matter presented unique challenges, and our ability to deliver strategic, client-focused solutions is a testament to the depth of talent and collaboration across our group. These awards reflect not just meaningful outcomes, but the trust our clients place in us to navigate complex, high-stakes restructurings.” The independently governed Turnaround Atlas Awards honor the best value-creating transactions, outstanding firms, professionals and leaders from the global restructuring, insolvency, and distressed investing communities. In March, M&A Advisor also recognized Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group with the “Ch. 11 Reorganization of the Year” award in the under $100MM category for its representation of the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in In re Mariner Health Central Inc. (N.D. Calif. 2022-23) at its 19th Annual Turnaround Awards. The Group went on to take home one of the event’s most significant recognitions: “Law Firm of the Year.”
Wins “Out of Court Restructuring” and “Healthcare Restructuring” Categories at Prestigious Annual Event
August 26, 2025
78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2026
Firm receives top listing in Connecticut lawyer count in national peer review survey
April 7, 2025
Robinson+Cole Hosts 2025 Training for New York City Family Court Volunteer Attorney Program
October 3, 2025
Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Practice Earns Dual Recognitions at Turnaround Atlas Awards
Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group won awards for both “Out of Court Restructuring of the Year” and “Healthcare Restructuring of the Year” presented by Global M&A Network at its 17th Annual Turnaround Atlas Awards. The event was hosted on September 23, 2025, at the Metropolitan Club in New York, NY. The “Out of Court Restructuring of the Year” award was presented for the secured party sale of Gander Group, a recognized leader in casino continuity and loyalty programs, to Stran Loyalty Solutions, LLC, a leading outsourced marketing solutions provider that leverages its promotional products and loyalty incentive expertise. Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group co-chair, Patrick M. Birney, led the acquisition, which created value by combining Gander Groups’ established presence and expertise in casino loyalty programs with Stran’s operational infrastructure and broad customer base, enabling cross-selling, operational efficiencies, and expended market reach, with projected revenue and cash flow growth. Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group also received the “Healthcare Restructuring of the Year” award for its representation of the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in In re Mariner Health Central Inc. (N.D. Calif. 2022-23). The team representing the committee included Bankruptcy + Reorganizations co-chair Natalie D. Ramsey and partners Jamie L. Edmonson and Rachel Jaffe Mauceri, as well as Robinson+Cole attorneys John L. Cordani, Curtis J. Crowther, Tasnuva (Taz) Islam, and Janet (Zhanna) Kljyan. The debtors were three members of a corporate family (Mariner Health Care) that oversaw, managed, and operated approximately 20 skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) in California, plus additional facilities outside California. Robinson+Cole's co-representation of the Mariner Committee led significantly to the resolution of all of the litigation pending against the debtors and their non-debtor affiliates and a consensual plan. The firm’s co-committee advisors included co-counsel Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hamilton, LLP and Committee financial advisor, Province. Other key professionals included the Mariner Debtors’ advisors, Raines Feldman Littrell LLP, Pachulski, Stang, Ziehl & Jones and Sierra Constellation Partners. “We’re deeply honored by these recognitions, which underscore the sophistication and tenacity of our Bankruptcy + Reorganizations attorneys,” said Natalie Ramsey. “Each matter presented unique challenges, and our ability to deliver strategic, client-focused solutions is a testament to the depth of talent and collaboration across our group. These awards reflect not just meaningful outcomes, but the trust our clients place in us to navigate complex, high-stakes restructurings.” The independently governed Turnaround Atlas Awards honor the best value-creating transactions, outstanding firms, professionals and leaders from the global restructuring, insolvency, and distressed investing communities. In March, M&A Advisor also recognized Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group with the “Ch. 11 Reorganization of the Year” award in the under $100MM category for its representation of the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in In re Mariner Health Central Inc. (N.D. Calif. 2022-23) at its 19th Annual Turnaround Awards. The Group went on to take home one of the event’s most significant recognitions: “Law Firm of the Year.”
Wins “Out of Court Restructuring” and “Healthcare Restructuring” Categories at Prestigious Annual Event
August 26, 2025
78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2026
Firm receives top listing in Connecticut lawyer count in national peer review survey
April 7, 2025
Robinson+Cole Hosts 2025 Training for New York City Family Court Volunteer Attorney Program
April 2, 2025
Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganization Group Wins “Law Firm of the Year”
M&A Advisor 19th Annual Turnaround Awards
March 12, 2025
Janet Kljyan and Kathryn Rattigan Co-Author Article on Potential for Predatory Lawsuits in the Restaurant Industry
Food and Beverage Magazine
January 13, 2025
Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel for 2025
November 26, 2024
Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group Wins Two 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards
M&A Advisor
March 19, 2024
Janet Kljyan Appointed Vice President of Hudson River Housing Board of Directors
Hudson River Housing
February 21, 2024
Janet Kljyan and Charles Martin Author New York Law Journal Article on Yellowstone Injunctions and Commercial Lease Disputes
New York Law Journal
April 2, 2025
Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganization Group Wins “Law Firm of the Year”
M&A Advisor 19th Annual Turnaround Awards
March 12, 2025
Janet Kljyan and Kathryn Rattigan Co-Author Article on Potential for Predatory Lawsuits in the Restaurant Industry
Food and Beverage Magazine
January 13, 2025
Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel for 2025
November 26, 2024
Robinson+Cole Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group Wins Two 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards
M&A Advisor
March 19, 2024
Janet Kljyan Appointed Vice President of Hudson River Housing Board of Directors
Hudson River Housing
February 21, 2024
Janet Kljyan and Charles Martin Author New York Law Journal Article on Yellowstone Injunctions and Commercial Lease Disputes
New York Law Journal
Events
Past
"Show Her The Money" Film Screening + Conversation
Aug 18 2025
City Winery NYC
Past
Defending Against Predatory Lawsuits: Strategies for Small and Mid-Size Businesses
Sep 19 2024
R+C-Hosted Webinar
Past
"Show Her The Money" Film Screening + Conversation
Aug 18 2025
City Winery NYC
Past
Defending Against Predatory Lawsuits: Strategies for Small and Mid-Size Businesses
Sep 19 2024
R+C-Hosted Webinar
Past
New York City Family Court Volunteer Attorney Program
Oct 12 2022
Pro Bono Volunteer Training Program
Past
New York City Family Court Volunteer Attorney Program
Oct 12 2022
Pro Bono Volunteer Training Program
Firm Highlights
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
Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group Authors Key U.S. Sections for 2025 Chambers Insolvency Global Practice Guide
News
Robinson+Cole Remains A “Best Place to Work in Connecticut”
News
Natalie Ramsey Honored with Prestigious 2026 David T. Sykes Award
Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group co-chair Natalie Ramsey was recognized as the 2026 David T. Sykes Award recipient at the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference’s (EDPABC) 36th Annual Forum on February 26, 2026. The award, which was co-presented by the EDPABC and the Consumer Bankruptcy Assistance Project (CBAP), is named after renowned bankruptcy attorney David T. Sykes and reflects Natalie’s excellence and integrity as a bankruptcy attorney, unsurpassed professionalism, mentorship of younger professionals, upholding of the reputation of the local bankruptcy bar, unwavering dedication to the bankruptcy community and the less fortunate in Philadelphia, and courtesy and respect for all. Natalie has been a member of the EDPABC since 1991 and served on its Board of Directors from 1999 - 2006, including as Chair in 2006. In addition, she has also been a member of the CBAP since 1993 and served as its President from 2012 - 2013.
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’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
Robinson+Cole has once again been recognized for its workplace culture, innovation, and commitment to inclusion by Vault in its 2027 Best Law Firms to Work For rankings. The firm was ranked #26 in the overall Best Large Law Firms to Work For category, reflecting continued momentum across many of the survey’s quality‑of‑life categories. Robinson+Cole achieved multiple top‑five inclusion rankings, and fifteen total top rankings, underscoring the firm’s longstanding history of respect, belonging, and meaningful professional development. Vault’s 2027 Best Law Firms to Work For rankings are based on its Annual Associate Survey, which was open from October 21, 2025, through January 23, 2026. The survey drew participation from more than 20,000 associates across 200+ law firms nationwide, evaluating firms on a wide range of quality‑of‑life factors, including firm culture, inclusion, wellness, transparency, integration, technology, and career outlook. Highlights from the firm’s 2027 Vault “Best Law Firms to Work For” rankings include: #4 – Best Law Firms for Overall Inclusion #4 – Best Law Firms for Women #4 – Best Law Firms for People of Color #5 – Best Law Firms for People with Disabilities #5 – Best Law Firms for LGBTQ+ Individuals #6 – Integration of Laterals & Clerks #6 – Technology & Innovation #10 – Wellness “Being recognized by our associates through Vault’s survey is especially meaningful,” said Robinson+Cole Managing Partner J. Michael Wirvin. “These rankings reflect the culture we work hard to sustain—one grounded in respect, inclusion, transparency, and opportunity. We remain committed to creating an environment where our people feel supported, empowered, and connected to the firm’s shared success.” “The firm’s ranking for the Integration of Laterals & Clerks category reflects a consistent focus on effective onboarding and integration,” said Chief Talent Officer Catherine Duke, “It is a vital component of Robinson+Cole’s culture to support new lawyers as they establish their practices and careers at the firm.” In addition to its 2027 Vault rankings, Robinson+Cole was again named one of the best law firms to work for in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 U.S. News Best Companies to Work For: Law Firms list, highlighting organizations excelling in work-life balance, belonging, and professional development. The firm has also been among the Hartford Business Journal’s “Best Place to Work in Connecticut” for over ten years.
News
Robinson+Cole Ushers in New Leadership for Nationally-Recognized Insurance + Reinsurance Practice
Robinson+Cole announced New York Partner Erica J. Kerstein has been named Chair of its Insurance + Reinsurance group, effective January 1, 2026. She succeeds Gregory P. Varga, who chaired the group since 2019. The strategic change to the leadership reinforces the firm’s thoughtful growth plan beyond its founding roots in Hartford and its commitment to providing exceptional client-focused service. “It’s a privilege to lead the firm’s nationally-recognized Insurance + Reinsurance group, a practice that has helped shape the insurance industry and this firm for generations,” said Kerstein. “Building on Greg’s leadership, I’m honored to carry this work forward and to do so as part of a team whose diversity and depth are a competitive advantage for our clients and their evolving needs navigating complex insurance coverage issues.” Celebrating over 180 years of practice, Robinson+Cole’s legacy in insurance law began alongside the establishment of leading insurance companies in the 19th century. The firm’s work was closely tied to these institutions, helping shape the legal landscape of the insurance industry from its earliest days. Over the decades, the firm’s lawyers have built a tradition of excellence and enduring relationships with leading insurers—a legacy now carried forward by more than 40 Insurance + Reinsurance lawyers practicing across six of Robinson+Cole’s office locations. Insurance + Reinsurance group lawyers are helping to shape the insurance industry, representing and advising clients in disputes nationally and internationally involving cutting-edge issues, including on how to navigate the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence across the insurance ecosystem. As insurers accelerate their investment in artificial intelligence to address risk, efficiency, and regulatory complexity, Robinson+Cole has likewise made focused investments in AI‑enabled capabilities that enhance how its lawyers analyze data, manage complex matters, and deliver advice. Driven by client demand—including insurers seeking guidance on responsible, effective use of AI in claims, coverage, and litigation—the firm is integrating these technologies thoughtfully into its legal services while maintaining rigorous professional judgment, transparency, data security, and client confidentiality. Kerstein’s incisive, efficient, and responsive approach has enabled her to successfully litigate and arbitrate complex insurance matters—particularly in financial lines and commercial general liability, both domestically and internationally. Her experience also encompasses providing strategic counsel to clients in high-profile matters. Kerstein represents national and global insurers and reinsurers in state and federal courts across the United States, handling a wide range of complex coverage and bad faith disputes. Beyond her legal practice, Kerstein is an active member of The Bridge, an organization supporting the development of female talent in financial lines. “Greg Varga’s tenure as Chair of the firm’s Insurance practice has been exceptionally successful,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Managing Partner at Robinson+Cole. “His vision, leadership, and experience not only elevated the practice and garnered national recognition, but it also opened new avenues for the firm’s growth and provides a strong foundation for Erica to carry forward.” Drawing on three decades of experience, Varga represents insurance companies in complex coverage and bad faith litigation, as well as arbitrations and appraisals. He chaired Robinson+Cole’s Insurance practice for 14 years over two terms, leading a team of more than 40 lawyers firmwide. Under his leadership, the group earned national recognition for its client-focused approach and became a thought leader in multiple areas of insurance law. “With Erica at the helm, our Insurance + Reinsurance group is poised to meet clients where they operate, extending our national and international reach,” said Varga. “Through working alongside her and leading the practice with her for the last few years, I am supremely confident that the group will continue to grow and thrive in the years to come as we continue to provide exceptional service to our valued clients. She will invest in data‑informed strategies, trial‑tested advocacy, and collaborative problem solving to keep our firm at the forefront of insurance law and practice.”
News
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”
Publication
Honest, but Still Unfortunate? Ninth Circuit Defines Authority of Social Security Administration to Recoup Overpayments Following Chapter 7 Discharge
The article highlights a notable Ninth Circuit decision where it ruled that the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not get a free pass to claw back overpayments just because the payment came from a benefits program, like Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. In this particular case, the court ruled that recoupment was impermissible given that the overpayment arose from the SSA’s own error, the debtor already received a no-asset Chapter 7 discharge, and there was no evidence of malfeasance by the debtor.
News
The Roffe Group of Robinson+Cole Announces New President
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
Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group Authors Key U.S. Sections for 2025 Chambers Insolvency Global Practice Guide
News
Robinson+Cole Remains A “Best Place to Work in Connecticut”
News
Natalie Ramsey Honored with Prestigious 2026 David T. Sykes Award
Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group co-chair Natalie Ramsey was recognized as the 2026 David T. Sykes Award recipient at the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference’s (EDPABC) 36th Annual Forum on February 26, 2026. The award, which was co-presented by the EDPABC and the Consumer Bankruptcy Assistance Project (CBAP), is named after renowned bankruptcy attorney David T. Sykes and reflects Natalie’s excellence and integrity as a bankruptcy attorney, unsurpassed professionalism, mentorship of younger professionals, upholding of the reputation of the local bankruptcy bar, unwavering dedication to the bankruptcy community and the less fortunate in Philadelphia, and courtesy and respect for all. Natalie has been a member of the EDPABC since 1991 and served on its Board of Directors from 1999 - 2006, including as Chair in 2006. In addition, she has also been a member of the CBAP since 1993 and served as its President from 2012 - 2013.
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’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
Robinson+Cole has once again been recognized for its workplace culture, innovation, and commitment to inclusion by Vault in its 2027 Best Law Firms to Work For rankings. The firm was ranked #26 in the overall Best Large Law Firms to Work For category, reflecting continued momentum across many of the survey’s quality‑of‑life categories. Robinson+Cole achieved multiple top‑five inclusion rankings, and fifteen total top rankings, underscoring the firm’s longstanding history of respect, belonging, and meaningful professional development. Vault’s 2027 Best Law Firms to Work For rankings are based on its Annual Associate Survey, which was open from October 21, 2025, through January 23, 2026. The survey drew participation from more than 20,000 associates across 200+ law firms nationwide, evaluating firms on a wide range of quality‑of‑life factors, including firm culture, inclusion, wellness, transparency, integration, technology, and career outlook. Highlights from the firm’s 2027 Vault “Best Law Firms to Work For” rankings include: #4 – Best Law Firms for Overall Inclusion #4 – Best Law Firms for Women #4 – Best Law Firms for People of Color #5 – Best Law Firms for People with Disabilities #5 – Best Law Firms for LGBTQ+ Individuals #6 – Integration of Laterals & Clerks #6 – Technology & Innovation #10 – Wellness “Being recognized by our associates through Vault’s survey is especially meaningful,” said Robinson+Cole Managing Partner J. Michael Wirvin. “These rankings reflect the culture we work hard to sustain—one grounded in respect, inclusion, transparency, and opportunity. We remain committed to creating an environment where our people feel supported, empowered, and connected to the firm’s shared success.” “The firm’s ranking for the Integration of Laterals & Clerks category reflects a consistent focus on effective onboarding and integration,” said Chief Talent Officer Catherine Duke, “It is a vital component of Robinson+Cole’s culture to support new lawyers as they establish their practices and careers at the firm.” In addition to its 2027 Vault rankings, Robinson+Cole was again named one of the best law firms to work for in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 U.S. News Best Companies to Work For: Law Firms list, highlighting organizations excelling in work-life balance, belonging, and professional development. The firm has also been among the Hartford Business Journal’s “Best Place to Work in Connecticut” for over ten years.
News
Robinson+Cole Ushers in New Leadership for Nationally-Recognized Insurance + Reinsurance Practice
Robinson+Cole announced New York Partner Erica J. Kerstein has been named Chair of its Insurance + Reinsurance group, effective January 1, 2026. She succeeds Gregory P. Varga, who chaired the group since 2019. The strategic change to the leadership reinforces the firm’s thoughtful growth plan beyond its founding roots in Hartford and its commitment to providing exceptional client-focused service. “It’s a privilege to lead the firm’s nationally-recognized Insurance + Reinsurance group, a practice that has helped shape the insurance industry and this firm for generations,” said Kerstein. “Building on Greg’s leadership, I’m honored to carry this work forward and to do so as part of a team whose diversity and depth are a competitive advantage for our clients and their evolving needs navigating complex insurance coverage issues.” Celebrating over 180 years of practice, Robinson+Cole’s legacy in insurance law began alongside the establishment of leading insurance companies in the 19th century. The firm’s work was closely tied to these institutions, helping shape the legal landscape of the insurance industry from its earliest days. Over the decades, the firm’s lawyers have built a tradition of excellence and enduring relationships with leading insurers—a legacy now carried forward by more than 40 Insurance + Reinsurance lawyers practicing across six of Robinson+Cole’s office locations. Insurance + Reinsurance group lawyers are helping to shape the insurance industry, representing and advising clients in disputes nationally and internationally involving cutting-edge issues, including on how to navigate the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence across the insurance ecosystem. As insurers accelerate their investment in artificial intelligence to address risk, efficiency, and regulatory complexity, Robinson+Cole has likewise made focused investments in AI‑enabled capabilities that enhance how its lawyers analyze data, manage complex matters, and deliver advice. Driven by client demand—including insurers seeking guidance on responsible, effective use of AI in claims, coverage, and litigation—the firm is integrating these technologies thoughtfully into its legal services while maintaining rigorous professional judgment, transparency, data security, and client confidentiality. Kerstein’s incisive, efficient, and responsive approach has enabled her to successfully litigate and arbitrate complex insurance matters—particularly in financial lines and commercial general liability, both domestically and internationally. Her experience also encompasses providing strategic counsel to clients in high-profile matters. Kerstein represents national and global insurers and reinsurers in state and federal courts across the United States, handling a wide range of complex coverage and bad faith disputes. Beyond her legal practice, Kerstein is an active member of The Bridge, an organization supporting the development of female talent in financial lines. “Greg Varga’s tenure as Chair of the firm’s Insurance practice has been exceptionally successful,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Managing Partner at Robinson+Cole. “His vision, leadership, and experience not only elevated the practice and garnered national recognition, but it also opened new avenues for the firm’s growth and provides a strong foundation for Erica to carry forward.” Drawing on three decades of experience, Varga represents insurance companies in complex coverage and bad faith litigation, as well as arbitrations and appraisals. He chaired Robinson+Cole’s Insurance practice for 14 years over two terms, leading a team of more than 40 lawyers firmwide. Under his leadership, the group earned national recognition for its client-focused approach and became a thought leader in multiple areas of insurance law. “With Erica at the helm, our Insurance + Reinsurance group is poised to meet clients where they operate, extending our national and international reach,” said Varga. “Through working alongside her and leading the practice with her for the last few years, I am supremely confident that the group will continue to grow and thrive in the years to come as we continue to provide exceptional service to our valued clients. She will invest in data‑informed strategies, trial‑tested advocacy, and collaborative problem solving to keep our firm at the forefront of insurance law and practice.”
News
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”
Publication
Honest, but Still Unfortunate? Ninth Circuit Defines Authority of Social Security Administration to Recoup Overpayments Following Chapter 7 Discharge
The article highlights a notable Ninth Circuit decision where it ruled that the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not get a free pass to claw back overpayments just because the payment came from a benefits program, like Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. In this particular case, the court ruled that recoupment was impermissible given that the overpayment arose from the SSA’s own error, the debtor already received a no-asset Chapter 7 discharge, and there was no evidence of malfeasance by the debtor.
News
The Roffe Group of Robinson+Cole Announces New President
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
Bankruptcy + Reorganizations Group Authors Key U.S. Sections for 2025 Chambers Insolvency Global Practice Guide
News
Robinson+Cole Remains A “Best Place to Work in Connecticut”
News
Natalie Ramsey Honored with Prestigious 2026 David T. Sykes Award
Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group co-chair Natalie Ramsey was recognized as the 2026 David T. Sykes Award recipient at the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference’s (EDPABC) 36th Annual Forum on February 26, 2026. The award, which was co-presented by the EDPABC and the Consumer Bankruptcy Assistance Project (CBAP), is named after renowned bankruptcy attorney David T. Sykes and reflects Natalie’s excellence and integrity as a bankruptcy attorney, unsurpassed professionalism, mentorship of younger professionals, upholding of the reputation of the local bankruptcy bar, unwavering dedication to the bankruptcy community and the less fortunate in Philadelphia, and courtesy and respect for all. Natalie has been a member of the EDPABC since 1991 and served on its Board of Directors from 1999 - 2006, including as Chair in 2006. In addition, she has also been a member of the CBAP since 1993 and served as its President from 2012 - 2013.
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.
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Robinson+Cole’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
Robinson+Cole has once again been recognized for its workplace culture, innovation, and commitment to inclusion by Vault in its 2027 Best Law Firms to Work For rankings. The firm was ranked #26 in the overall Best Large Law Firms to Work For category, reflecting continued momentum across many of the survey’s quality‑of‑life categories. Robinson+Cole achieved multiple top‑five inclusion rankings, and fifteen total top rankings, underscoring the firm’s longstanding history of respect, belonging, and meaningful professional development. Vault’s 2027 Best Law Firms to Work For rankings are based on its Annual Associate Survey, which was open from October 21, 2025, through January 23, 2026. The survey drew participation from more than 20,000 associates across 200+ law firms nationwide, evaluating firms on a wide range of quality‑of‑life factors, including firm culture, inclusion, wellness, transparency, integration, technology, and career outlook. Highlights from the firm’s 2027 Vault “Best Law Firms to Work For” rankings include: #4 – Best Law Firms for Overall Inclusion #4 – Best Law Firms for Women #4 – Best Law Firms for People of Color #5 – Best Law Firms for People with Disabilities #5 – Best Law Firms for LGBTQ+ Individuals #6 – Integration of Laterals & Clerks #6 – Technology & Innovation #10 – Wellness “Being recognized by our associates through Vault’s survey is especially meaningful,” said Robinson+Cole Managing Partner J. Michael Wirvin. “These rankings reflect the culture we work hard to sustain—one grounded in respect, inclusion, transparency, and opportunity. We remain committed to creating an environment where our people feel supported, empowered, and connected to the firm’s shared success.” “The firm’s ranking for the Integration of Laterals & Clerks category reflects a consistent focus on effective onboarding and integration,” said Chief Talent Officer Catherine Duke, “It is a vital component of Robinson+Cole’s culture to support new lawyers as they establish their practices and careers at the firm.” In addition to its 2027 Vault rankings, Robinson+Cole was again named one of the best law firms to work for in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 U.S. News Best Companies to Work For: Law Firms list, highlighting organizations excelling in work-life balance, belonging, and professional development. The firm has also been among the Hartford Business Journal’s “Best Place to Work in Connecticut” for over ten years.