Robinson Cole LLP
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Kayla O'Leary Daly

Associate
kodaly@rc.com
Portrait of Kayla O'Leary Daly
Portrait of Kayla O'Leary Daly

Kayla O'Leary Daly

Associate

kodaly@rc.com
Hartford, CT — 860.275.8258

Kayla O’Leary Daly is an Intellectual Property + Technology transactions associate. Kayla assists clients with a wide variety of intellectual property and technology counseling, prosecution and transactional matters, including intellectual property development and license agreements, software as a service (SaaS) agreements, data license agreements, outsourcing and services agreements, and various other commercial contracts that include intellectual property and/or technology components.

She has experience servicing clients across a broad range of industries and sectors, including technology, consumer products, consulting, manufacturing, healthcare, and food and beverage. Kayla also has experience assisting with and advising on mergers and acquisitions where intellectual property and/or technology assets are pertinent to the deal’s value. She is a member of our firm's Intellectual Property + Technology and Business Transactions groups.

Intellectual Property and Technology Transactions

Kayla’s practice involves advising clients on the development, protection, licensing and commercialization of intellectual property and technology. Kayla has extensive experience drafting and negotiating data license agreements and advising clients regarding the licensing, development, and ownership of data rights.

In connection with technology development, she assists clients with a wide variety of agreements necessary to protect, maintain and exploit technology. For example, Kayla has aided clients with all aspects of a new technology product launch, including drafting development agreements, supply and manufacturing agreements, terms and conditions of product purchase, product support and maintenance agreements, and end user license agreements for software products.

Kayla also represents clients licensing software and outsourcing IT services by advising on and negotiating software license, master IT services, cloud services and software as a service (SaaS) agreements.

Business Transactions

Kayla has experience assisting companies with various aspects of their general commercial contracting needs, including domestic and international distribution and manufacturing agreements, master services and other vendor agreements, employee and independent contractor confidentiality and inventions assignment agreements, sales agreements and purchase contracts, non-disclosure agreements, reseller agreements, sales representative agreements, consulting agreements, minimum advertised price policies, and website terms of use.

Trademark Prosecution

Kayla assists clients with brand management including clearance, prosecution, maintenance and enforcement of trademark registrations and rights worldwide. Kayla also aids clients with resolution of ownership and rights disputes including assisting with U.S. Patent and Trademark Office opposition and cancellation proceedings.

  • Boston University School of Law (Juris Doctor)
    • Journal of Science and Technology Law
  • University of Connecticut (Bachelors, magna cum laude)
    • B.S., Business Marketing
    • New England Scholar
    • Samuel L. Schrager Business Law Scholarship

  • State of Connecticut

Selected as a Rising Star to the Connecticut Super Lawyers list for 2024 and 2025

Robinson+Cole Mentor of the Year, 2022

Connecticut Bar Association
Intellectual Property Section, Executive and Legislative Committees

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.

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

Represented FactSet in Investment in Series B Preferred Stock in Aidentified

Represented FactSet, a global financial digital platform and enterprise solutions provider, in connection with its $12.5 million investment in Series B Preferred Stock of Aidentified, Inc., a leading AI-powered prospecting and relationship intelligence platform for financial services professionals that provides financial advisors, marketing teams, and other sales professionals with tools to identify, qualify, and convert new client relationships. The investment will fund further technological developments, dramatically accelerate prospecting and business development, and grow Aidentified’s team as its client adoption increases.

Read More

GrowGen Aquisition of Agron.io

Represented GrowGeneration Corp. (GrowGen), an owner and operator of a network of specialty hydroponic gardening stores, advising on its acquisition of Agron.io, a leading wholesale agriculture platform powered by proprietary enterprise resource planning (ERP) technology that allows commercial growers to manage their purchasing and logistics in one platform. With this acquisition, announced on March 22, 2021, Agron.io Powered by GrowGeneration continues to be a one-stop destination for GrowGeneration's growing roster of commercial clients across the U.S.

Read More

Publications

November 11, 2025

Negotiating with Big Tech: Top 3 Issues To Watch Out For

Industry Today

Focus on negotiating key issues rather than attempting to revise the entire agreement. Companies of all shapes and sizes, from start-ups to major corporations and across all industries, deal with major tech companies in some capacity. Your company is engaging with big tech to license the rights to use a variety of key solutions, which are critical to the smooth operation of your business. Often the pricing and nature of the solutions give the tech company more control over the agreement terms. As a result, your company will typically have to focus on key issues rather than attempting to significantly revise the entire agreement. This article identifies three key issues to be on the lookout for in these agreements and provides tips on the terms worth fighting for. The Right to Terminate A number one priority in negotiating any agreement should be the ability to get out of the relationship if it takes a turn for the worse. Despite what the rest of the contract terms state, you never know what could happen – the vendor could experience a major data breach, go bankrupt, or just stop providing the same caliber of services to you for whatever reason. Your company may want to stop the relationship (or at least have the leverage provided by the option to stop the relationship) and avoid having litigation as the only path forward to either correct or end the relationship. Most big tech companies will not agree to a right for you terminate for convenience at any time, however, there are other ways you may better position yourself to be able to end the agreement, if necessary. Especially for subscription-model license agreements with tech companies, it is common for the term of the subscription to automatically renew. This means that if you subscribe for a one-year term, the subscription will automatically renew at the end of that year (sometimes at the vendor’s then-current rates, which would likely be higher than what you originally agreed to), unless you provide notice within a certain amount of time before the expiration of the initial term. It is not unreasonable to push back on this and request for the agreement to renew only if you elect for renewal prior to the expiration of the initial term. There are also other termination rights you can try to work in that are not as aggressive as a right to terminate for convenience. For instance, you can negotiate for the inclusion of a termination right in the following circumstances: If the vendor upgrades or otherwise changes their software in a way that materially degrades its usefulness for your company; If the vendor is unable to provide the services for a period of time because of some unforeseeable circumstance out of its control (often referred to in contracts as a “force majeure event”); or If the service is in a downgraded state or completely unavailable to you for certain periods of time. At a bare minimum, you can request are the right to terminate if the vendor breaches the agreement or goes bankrupt, which are market standard terms. Rights and Restrictions Regarding Your Data Given the nature of the products and services they are providing, many tech companies will have access to significant amounts of your data and sometimes very sensitive data. As data continues to become more valuable (especially with advancements in artificial intelligence), we are seeing tech companies increasingly try to broaden their rights to use your data in these agreements. There is a delicate balance between ensuring the vendor has the appropriate rights they need to use your data in order to provide the contracted-for product or services, and ensuring that the vendor does not use your data for additional or unnecessary purposes. It is common to see language in a tech vendor’s agreement stating that they have the right to collect, anonymize, and aggregate your data (which can include both the data you input into their software or usage data they gather based on how you interact with their software) and use such data in a broad context, e.g., in order to improve their products and services, to train artificial intelligence, or for other commercial purposes. You can push back on this and may want to consider doing so especially if the language goes as far to say that the vendor owns that data. Push back can be “right sized” to reflect the circumstances and the amount of leverage you have and, therefore, might include rights to use only some of your data or limitations in the types of permitted uses. Many vendors will claim that their software automatically collects, gathers or tracks such information and that there is no way to “turn off” that feature for just one client. If that is the case, then you may need to assess the sensitivity of the information the vendor would have access to and the risks associated with their access and use. If the risk is too great, you may need to walk away from that vendor. Recourse for Breach Lastly, it is important that you have appropriate safeguards in place and a right to recourse for a possible breach so that you can either force vendor’s performance or collect damages for non-performance. Here are some key clauses in a tech agreement where such recourse can be incorporated: Representations and Warranties – Standard representations from a tech vendor that may be appropriate to include are: (1) that the software will function in accordance with any agreed upon specifications; (2) that it will be provided in compliance with laws; (3) that it will not contain viruses; and (4) and that your use of it will not infringe upon any third party’s intellectual property rights. Indemnification – Depending on how much of your data the tech vendor is processing or otherwise has access to, and how sensitive that data is, you may want to try to include data breaches among the claims covered by indemnification. Intellectual property infringement is also important to have covered by indemnification, and this is generally market standard so you can reasonably push for it. You can also consider other “fixes” to infringement, such as requiring the vendor to modify the software so that it is no longer infringing, obtain a license so you can still use it, or provide you with a refund. Limitations on Liability – Pick your battles carefully when it comes to carve-outs on the limitations to liability because vendors will likely push back aggressively on any proposed changes to these terms. Negotiation of the limitations on liability will be related to what you are able to negotiate for the representations and warranties, as well as indemnification. Ideally, you want breaches of representations and indemnification claims to be carved out of limitations on liability; at a minimum, it is market standard for the carve-outs to limitations on liability to include the vendor’s gross negligence or willful misconduct. The above summaries only scratch the surface on each topic. There are, of course, other elements of tech agreements that are important to closely consider. When you have limited leverage negotiating with bigger companies and you have to pick your battles, the three issues discussed here are important to keep in mind.

Intellectual Property + Technology Newsletter teaser
Q4 2021

Intellectual Property + Technology Newsletter

November 17, 2021

Transformation or Derivation: Modern Trends in the Fair Use Doctrine from Software to Photography

IPWatchdog

The article discusses how the “Fair Use” doctrine has evolved as technology and the way in which people use copyrighted works has advanced. Through an analysis of recent decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court and U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, which have resulted in some conflicting guidance, the authors concluded that “[G]iven the emerging trends in the law, it is important for defense counsel to identify and pursue potential fair-use defenses early in a copyright litigation, even outside the traditional areas of commentary, criticism, teaching, news reporting, scholarship, and research.” View the article.

November 11, 2025

Negotiating with Big Tech: Top 3 Issues To Watch Out For

Industry Today

Focus on negotiating key issues rather than attempting to revise the entire agreement. Companies of all shapes and sizes, from start-ups to major corporations and across all industries, deal with major tech companies in some capacity. Your company is engaging with big tech to license the rights to use a variety of key solutions, which are critical to the smooth operation of your business. Often the pricing and nature of the solutions give the tech company more control over the agreement terms. As a result, your company will typically have to focus on key issues rather than attempting to significantly revise the entire agreement. This article identifies three key issues to be on the lookout for in these agreements and provides tips on the terms worth fighting for. The Right to Terminate A number one priority in negotiating any agreement should be the ability to get out of the relationship if it takes a turn for the worse. Despite what the rest of the contract terms state, you never know what could happen – the vendor could experience a major data breach, go bankrupt, or just stop providing the same caliber of services to you for whatever reason. Your company may want to stop the relationship (or at least have the leverage provided by the option to stop the relationship) and avoid having litigation as the only path forward to either correct or end the relationship. Most big tech companies will not agree to a right for you terminate for convenience at any time, however, there are other ways you may better position yourself to be able to end the agreement, if necessary. Especially for subscription-model license agreements with tech companies, it is common for the term of the subscription to automatically renew. This means that if you subscribe for a one-year term, the subscription will automatically renew at the end of that year (sometimes at the vendor’s then-current rates, which would likely be higher than what you originally agreed to), unless you provide notice within a certain amount of time before the expiration of the initial term. It is not unreasonable to push back on this and request for the agreement to renew only if you elect for renewal prior to the expiration of the initial term. There are also other termination rights you can try to work in that are not as aggressive as a right to terminate for convenience. For instance, you can negotiate for the inclusion of a termination right in the following circumstances: If the vendor upgrades or otherwise changes their software in a way that materially degrades its usefulness for your company; If the vendor is unable to provide the services for a period of time because of some unforeseeable circumstance out of its control (often referred to in contracts as a “force majeure event”); or If the service is in a downgraded state or completely unavailable to you for certain periods of time. At a bare minimum, you can request are the right to terminate if the vendor breaches the agreement or goes bankrupt, which are market standard terms. Rights and Restrictions Regarding Your Data Given the nature of the products and services they are providing, many tech companies will have access to significant amounts of your data and sometimes very sensitive data. As data continues to become more valuable (especially with advancements in artificial intelligence), we are seeing tech companies increasingly try to broaden their rights to use your data in these agreements. There is a delicate balance between ensuring the vendor has the appropriate rights they need to use your data in order to provide the contracted-for product or services, and ensuring that the vendor does not use your data for additional or unnecessary purposes. It is common to see language in a tech vendor’s agreement stating that they have the right to collect, anonymize, and aggregate your data (which can include both the data you input into their software or usage data they gather based on how you interact with their software) and use such data in a broad context, e.g., in order to improve their products and services, to train artificial intelligence, or for other commercial purposes. You can push back on this and may want to consider doing so especially if the language goes as far to say that the vendor owns that data. Push back can be “right sized” to reflect the circumstances and the amount of leverage you have and, therefore, might include rights to use only some of your data or limitations in the types of permitted uses. Many vendors will claim that their software automatically collects, gathers or tracks such information and that there is no way to “turn off” that feature for just one client. If that is the case, then you may need to assess the sensitivity of the information the vendor would have access to and the risks associated with their access and use. If the risk is too great, you may need to walk away from that vendor. Recourse for Breach Lastly, it is important that you have appropriate safeguards in place and a right to recourse for a possible breach so that you can either force vendor’s performance or collect damages for non-performance. Here are some key clauses in a tech agreement where such recourse can be incorporated: Representations and Warranties – Standard representations from a tech vendor that may be appropriate to include are: (1) that the software will function in accordance with any agreed upon specifications; (2) that it will be provided in compliance with laws; (3) that it will not contain viruses; and (4) and that your use of it will not infringe upon any third party’s intellectual property rights. Indemnification – Depending on how much of your data the tech vendor is processing or otherwise has access to, and how sensitive that data is, you may want to try to include data breaches among the claims covered by indemnification. Intellectual property infringement is also important to have covered by indemnification, and this is generally market standard so you can reasonably push for it. You can also consider other “fixes” to infringement, such as requiring the vendor to modify the software so that it is no longer infringing, obtain a license so you can still use it, or provide you with a refund. Limitations on Liability – Pick your battles carefully when it comes to carve-outs on the limitations to liability because vendors will likely push back aggressively on any proposed changes to these terms. Negotiation of the limitations on liability will be related to what you are able to negotiate for the representations and warranties, as well as indemnification. Ideally, you want breaches of representations and indemnification claims to be carved out of limitations on liability; at a minimum, it is market standard for the carve-outs to limitations on liability to include the vendor’s gross negligence or willful misconduct. The above summaries only scratch the surface on each topic. There are, of course, other elements of tech agreements that are important to closely consider. When you have limited leverage negotiating with bigger companies and you have to pick your battles, the three issues discussed here are important to keep in mind.

Intellectual Property + Technology Newsletter teaser
Q4 2021

Intellectual Property + Technology Newsletter

November 17, 2021

Transformation or Derivation: Modern Trends in the Fair Use Doctrine from Software to Photography

IPWatchdog

The article discusses how the “Fair Use” doctrine has evolved as technology and the way in which people use copyrighted works has advanced. Through an analysis of recent decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court and U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, which have resulted in some conflicting guidance, the authors concluded that “[G]iven the emerging trends in the law, it is important for defense counsel to identify and pursue potential fair-use defenses early in a copyright litigation, even outside the traditional areas of commentary, criticism, teaching, news reporting, scholarship, and research.” View the article.

IP + T: Intelligence teaser
Q1 2021

IP + T: Intelligence

IP+T Group: Out + About teaser
December 2020

IP+T Group: Out + About

IP+T: Intelligence teaser
Q2 2020

IP+T: Intelligence

IP + T: Intelligence teaser
Q1 2021

IP + T: Intelligence

IP+T Group: Out + About teaser
December 2020

IP+T Group: Out + About

IP+T: Intelligence teaser
Q2 2020

IP+T: Intelligence

Events

Past

Ethical Practices for Communications with Clients, Opposing Parties, and the USPTO

Dec 1 2022
A Connecticut Bar Association roundtable discussion hosted by the CBA Intellectual Property Section
Past

NFTs, Fine Art, and Software: The Many Faces of Copyright Fair Use

Mar 8 2022
CT Bar Association's Intellectual Property Section
Past

Ethical Practices for Communications with Clients, Opposing Parties, and the USPTO

Dec 1 2022
A Connecticut Bar Association roundtable discussion hosted by the CBA Intellectual Property Section
Past

NFTs, Fine Art, and Software: The Many Faces of Copyright Fair Use

Mar 8 2022
CT Bar Association's Intellectual Property Section
Past

Food’NBev Connect

March and April 2022
Presented to Food'NBev
Past

Tata Consumer Products

February 2022
Presented to Tata Consumer Products
Past

Intellectual Property: 2020 SCOTUS Decisions and Other Landmark Cases

Jan 19 2021
Connecticut Bar Association
Past

Food’NBev Connect

March and April 2022
Presented to Food'NBev
Past

Tata Consumer Products

February 2022
Presented to Tata Consumer Products
Past

Intellectual Property: 2020 SCOTUS Decisions and Other Landmark Cases

Jan 19 2021
Connecticut Bar Association

News

November 17, 2025

Kayla O’Leary Daly Discusses Three Key Issues When Negotiating Big Tech Agreements

Intellectual Property + Technology lawyer Kayla O’Leary Daly discussed three key issues to focus on when negotiating agreements with big tech providers in her article, “Negotiating with Big Tech: Top 3 Issues To Watch Out For,” published in Industry Today, November 11, 2025. Kayla suggests the right to terminate, rights and restrictions regarding your data, and recourse for breach are among the most important contract elements to negotiate. “Often the pricing and nature of the solutions give the tech company more control over the agreement terms. As a result, your company will typically have to focus on key issues rather than attempting to significantly revise the entire agreement… When you have limited leverage negotiating with bigger companies and you have to pick your battles, the three issues discussed here are important to keep in mind.” Read the article.

Industry Today
November 6, 2025

Robinson+Cole Commends 62 Attorneys Recognized in 2025 Super Lawyers®

Recognition spans key regions and highlights the firm’s seasoned practitioners and emerging leaders in many business transactions and litigation practices
Robinson+Cole Commends 62 Attorneys Recognized in 2025 <i>Super Lawyers</i>® teaser
October 31, 2024

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2024 Super Lawyers®

Thomson Reuters
Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2024 <i>Super Lawyers</i>® teaser
November 17, 2025

Kayla O’Leary Daly Discusses Three Key Issues When Negotiating Big Tech Agreements

Intellectual Property + Technology lawyer Kayla O’Leary Daly discussed three key issues to focus on when negotiating agreements with big tech providers in her article, “Negotiating with Big Tech: Top 3 Issues To Watch Out For,” published in Industry Today, November 11, 2025. Kayla suggests the right to terminate, rights and restrictions regarding your data, and recourse for breach are among the most important contract elements to negotiate. “Often the pricing and nature of the solutions give the tech company more control over the agreement terms. As a result, your company will typically have to focus on key issues rather than attempting to significantly revise the entire agreement… When you have limited leverage negotiating with bigger companies and you have to pick your battles, the three issues discussed here are important to keep in mind.” Read the article.

Industry Today
November 6, 2025

Robinson+Cole Commends 62 Attorneys Recognized in 2025 Super Lawyers®

Recognition spans key regions and highlights the firm’s seasoned practitioners and emerging leaders in many business transactions and litigation practices
Robinson+Cole Commends 62 Attorneys Recognized in 2025 <i>Super Lawyers</i>® teaser
October 31, 2024

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2024 Super Lawyers®

Thomson Reuters
Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2024 <i>Super Lawyers</i>® teaser
July 3, 2024

Robinson+Cole Represents FactSet in Investment in Series B Preferred Stock in Aidentified

April 30, 2024

Robinson+Cole Represents Gate Worldwide in Sale of Nomadix and GlobalReach to ASSA ABLOY

August 2, 2022

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

March 31, 2021

Capital Markets + Securities Team Represents GrowGeneration Corp. in Recent Acquisitions

February 11, 2021

Capital Markets + Securities Team Represents GrowGeneration Corp. in Significant Transactions

January 14, 2021

Jackie Scheib and Kayla O'Leary Author CT Chapter in INTA Member Publication

U.S. State Trademark and Unfair Competition Law
July 3, 2024

Robinson+Cole Represents FactSet in Investment in Series B Preferred Stock in Aidentified

April 30, 2024

Robinson+Cole Represents Gate Worldwide in Sale of Nomadix and GlobalReach to ASSA ABLOY

August 2, 2022

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

March 31, 2021

Capital Markets + Securities Team Represents GrowGeneration Corp. in Recent Acquisitions

February 11, 2021

Capital Markets + Securities Team Represents GrowGeneration Corp. in Significant Transactions

January 14, 2021

Jackie Scheib and Kayla O'Leary Author CT Chapter in INTA Member Publication

U.S. State Trademark and Unfair Competition Law

Firm Highlights

News
Robinson+Cole’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
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.

News
Robinson+Cole Recognized Across Practices and Regions with 46 Chambers USA 2026 Rankings
News
Kate Dion and Natale DiNatale Examine the Legal Questions Raised By Sorsby Injunction

Education industry team chair Kathleen Dion and Labor Relations group chair Natale DiNatale discussed the potential ramifications on the NCAA and college athletes in the article, “NCAA to appeal Brendan Sorsby injunction. What it means and how it can win,” published in USA Today, June 8, 2026. Kate pointed out that the injunction is a temporary measure. “This decision is only a preliminary ruling and is subject to appeal. Unless it is overturned, the injunction preserves Sorsby’s opportunity to compete this fall while the underlying case proceeds and allows him to continue preparing for a potential NFL career. For the NCAA, the ruling raises questions about the extent to which courts may review and potentially limit the enforcement of eligibility and competitive-integrity rules in individual cases.”  She continued, “It is also important to recognize that this is one state trial court decision, not a final decision on the merits, and thus its precedential value may be limited. While the court found that Sorsby demonstrated a probable right to the relief that he seeks on his breach of contract and other claims, which is a necessary element for obtaining a temporary injunction — the order does not appear to provide a detailed explanation of the court’s reasoning on that issue. As a result, many of the legal questions raised by the case are likely to remain the subject of further litigation and possible appellate review.” Discussing the foundation of the claim, Natale said, “The underlying dispute looks like a claim that the NCAA failed to accommodate a disability (e.g. an ADA claim based on a gambling addiction). But, it was brought as a breach of contract claim. A contract claim can be brought and maybe kept, in state court, which is likely a friendlier forum for this athlete.” Read the article.

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
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”
News
Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards
News
Robinson+Cole Expands Philadelphia Office at Landmark Liberty Place
News
Dana Horton Ascends to Presidency of Rhode Island Bar Association
News
Robinson+Cole Expands National Platform with Four Lateral Partners

Robinson+Cole announced the addition of four lateral partners—J. Zachary Balasko, Eric Del Pozo, Brya M. Keilson and Victor R. Salgado, accelerating the firm’s continued investment in the growth of its national bankruptcy and business litigation capabilities. Balasko and Keilson join the firm’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group in Washington, DC, and Wilmington, DE, respectively, while Del Pozo and Salgado join the Business Litigation group in Hartford, CT, and Washington, DC. These strategic hires enhance the firm’s ability to serve clients navigating complex, high‑stakes bankruptcy, restructuring, government enforcement, and related litigation matters nationwide and expand the firm’s depth and reach across key markets. “These additions meaningfully reinforce the depth and versatility of our business litigation and restructuring platform and reflect a deliberate approach to strengthening these areas in ways that directly benefit our clients,” said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. “Eric, Zak, Brya, and Victor each bring sophisticated experience and sound judgment that enhance our ability to advise clients through some of their most critical and challenging matters. Their arrival reflects our continued focus on building cohesive, multi-disciplinary teams with capabilities that extend across multiple markets.” J. Zachary Balasko joins the firm as a Bankruptcy + Reorganizations partner based in Washington, DC. His practice focuses on complex Chapter 11 cases and bankruptcy‑related litigation across the country, representing debtors, secured creditors, creditors’ committees, and governmental entities. Balasko brings substantial experience from both private practice and prior service with the U.S. Department of Justice, where he handled major insolvency matters involving federal interests. Eric Del Pozo joins Robinson+Cole’s Hartford, CT office as a Business Litigation partner focusing on complex commercial litigation and appellate matters, representing businesses and public entities in regulated industries in high-stakes and sophisticated disputes. Del Pozo brings experience from senior roles in government and private practice, where he has represented clients at both the trial and appellate levels. Brya Keilson joins Robinson+Cole as a Bankruptcy + Reorganizations partner in the firm’s Wilmington, DE office, one of the nation’s leading venues for complex bankruptcy proceeding . She represents debtors, creditors, committees, trustees, and other parties in interest in sophisticated Chapter 11 and Chapter 7 cases. Keilson is widely experienced in contested bankruptcy matters and frequently advises clients on both strategic and practical considerations throughout the restructuring process. Victor Salgado joins Robinson+Cole as a Business Litigation partner in the firm’s Washington, DC office. He brings significant experience from both government and private practice, including eight years as a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, DC, where he handled high‑profile and complex cases focusing on public corruption as well as crimes involving financial institutions. Salgado will also work closely with the firm’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group on contested matters arising in complex restructurings and related litigation. In addition, Destiney Parker-Thompson joins the firm as a Bankruptcy + Reorganizations associate in the Wilmington office. Parker‑Thompson focuses her practice on bankruptcy, restructuring, and related litigation matters, drawing on experience representing debtors, creditors, and financial institutions in complex Chapter 11 cases. She previously served as a judicial law clerk to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, bringing valuable insight to sophisticated restructuring matters. Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group has recently been recognized for its role in several of the most complex and precedent‑setting restructuring matters in the country, earning multiple national honors for its work in high‑profile Chapter 11 cases and related litigation. The group has guided stakeholders through landmark proceedings—including award‑recognized reorganizations, a first‑of‑its‑kind bankruptcy confirmed with a Section 524(g) injunction, and other transformative restructurings—reflecting the team’s ability to deliver strategic, results‑driven counsel in matters with significant legal and financial implications.

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Robinson+Cole’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
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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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Robinson+Cole Recognized Across Practices and Regions with 46 Chambers USA 2026 Rankings
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Kate Dion and Natale DiNatale Examine the Legal Questions Raised By Sorsby Injunction

Education industry team chair Kathleen Dion and Labor Relations group chair Natale DiNatale discussed the potential ramifications on the NCAA and college athletes in the article, “NCAA to appeal Brendan Sorsby injunction. What it means and how it can win,” published in USA Today, June 8, 2026. Kate pointed out that the injunction is a temporary measure. “This decision is only a preliminary ruling and is subject to appeal. Unless it is overturned, the injunction preserves Sorsby’s opportunity to compete this fall while the underlying case proceeds and allows him to continue preparing for a potential NFL career. For the NCAA, the ruling raises questions about the extent to which courts may review and potentially limit the enforcement of eligibility and competitive-integrity rules in individual cases.”  She continued, “It is also important to recognize that this is one state trial court decision, not a final decision on the merits, and thus its precedential value may be limited. While the court found that Sorsby demonstrated a probable right to the relief that he seeks on his breach of contract and other claims, which is a necessary element for obtaining a temporary injunction — the order does not appear to provide a detailed explanation of the court’s reasoning on that issue. As a result, many of the legal questions raised by the case are likely to remain the subject of further litigation and possible appellate review.” Discussing the foundation of the claim, Natale said, “The underlying dispute looks like a claim that the NCAA failed to accommodate a disability (e.g. an ADA claim based on a gambling addiction). But, it was brought as a breach of contract claim. A contract claim can be brought and maybe kept, in state court, which is likely a friendlier forum for this athlete.” Read the article.

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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
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”
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Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards
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Robinson+Cole Expands Philadelphia Office at Landmark Liberty Place
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Dana Horton Ascends to Presidency of Rhode Island Bar Association
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Robinson+Cole Expands National Platform with Four Lateral Partners

Robinson+Cole announced the addition of four lateral partners—J. Zachary Balasko, Eric Del Pozo, Brya M. Keilson and Victor R. Salgado, accelerating the firm’s continued investment in the growth of its national bankruptcy and business litigation capabilities. Balasko and Keilson join the firm’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group in Washington, DC, and Wilmington, DE, respectively, while Del Pozo and Salgado join the Business Litigation group in Hartford, CT, and Washington, DC. These strategic hires enhance the firm’s ability to serve clients navigating complex, high‑stakes bankruptcy, restructuring, government enforcement, and related litigation matters nationwide and expand the firm’s depth and reach across key markets. “These additions meaningfully reinforce the depth and versatility of our business litigation and restructuring platform and reflect a deliberate approach to strengthening these areas in ways that directly benefit our clients,” said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. “Eric, Zak, Brya, and Victor each bring sophisticated experience and sound judgment that enhance our ability to advise clients through some of their most critical and challenging matters. Their arrival reflects our continued focus on building cohesive, multi-disciplinary teams with capabilities that extend across multiple markets.” J. Zachary Balasko joins the firm as a Bankruptcy + Reorganizations partner based in Washington, DC. His practice focuses on complex Chapter 11 cases and bankruptcy‑related litigation across the country, representing debtors, secured creditors, creditors’ committees, and governmental entities. Balasko brings substantial experience from both private practice and prior service with the U.S. Department of Justice, where he handled major insolvency matters involving federal interests. Eric Del Pozo joins Robinson+Cole’s Hartford, CT office as a Business Litigation partner focusing on complex commercial litigation and appellate matters, representing businesses and public entities in regulated industries in high-stakes and sophisticated disputes. Del Pozo brings experience from senior roles in government and private practice, where he has represented clients at both the trial and appellate levels. Brya Keilson joins Robinson+Cole as a Bankruptcy + Reorganizations partner in the firm’s Wilmington, DE office, one of the nation’s leading venues for complex bankruptcy proceeding . She represents debtors, creditors, committees, trustees, and other parties in interest in sophisticated Chapter 11 and Chapter 7 cases. Keilson is widely experienced in contested bankruptcy matters and frequently advises clients on both strategic and practical considerations throughout the restructuring process. Victor Salgado joins Robinson+Cole as a Business Litigation partner in the firm’s Washington, DC office. He brings significant experience from both government and private practice, including eight years as a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, DC, where he handled high‑profile and complex cases focusing on public corruption as well as crimes involving financial institutions. Salgado will also work closely with the firm’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group on contested matters arising in complex restructurings and related litigation. In addition, Destiney Parker-Thompson joins the firm as a Bankruptcy + Reorganizations associate in the Wilmington office. Parker‑Thompson focuses her practice on bankruptcy, restructuring, and related litigation matters, drawing on experience representing debtors, creditors, and financial institutions in complex Chapter 11 cases. She previously served as a judicial law clerk to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, bringing valuable insight to sophisticated restructuring matters. Robinson+Cole’s Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group has recently been recognized for its role in several of the most complex and precedent‑setting restructuring matters in the country, earning multiple national honors for its work in high‑profile Chapter 11 cases and related litigation. The group has guided stakeholders through landmark proceedings—including award‑recognized reorganizations, a first‑of‑its‑kind bankruptcy confirmed with a Section 524(g) injunction, and other transformative restructurings—reflecting the team’s ability to deliver strategic, results‑driven counsel in matters with significant legal and financial implications.

News
Robinson+Cole’s People-First Culture Recognized in Vault’s 2027 Rankings
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.

News
Robinson+Cole Recognized Across Practices and Regions with 46 Chambers USA 2026 Rankings
News
Kate Dion and Natale DiNatale Examine the Legal Questions Raised By Sorsby Injunction

Education industry team chair Kathleen Dion and Labor Relations group chair Natale DiNatale discussed the potential ramifications on the NCAA and college athletes in the article, “NCAA to appeal Brendan Sorsby injunction. What it means and how it can win,” published in USA Today, June 8, 2026. Kate pointed out that the injunction is a temporary measure. “This decision is only a preliminary ruling and is subject to appeal. Unless it is overturned, the injunction preserves Sorsby’s opportunity to compete this fall while the underlying case proceeds and allows him to continue preparing for a potential NFL career. For the NCAA, the ruling raises questions about the extent to which courts may review and potentially limit the enforcement of eligibility and competitive-integrity rules in individual cases.”  She continued, “It is also important to recognize that this is one state trial court decision, not a final decision on the merits, and thus its precedential value may be limited. While the court found that Sorsby demonstrated a probable right to the relief that he seeks on his breach of contract and other claims, which is a necessary element for obtaining a temporary injunction — the order does not appear to provide a detailed explanation of the court’s reasoning on that issue. As a result, many of the legal questions raised by the case are likely to remain the subject of further litigation and possible appellate review.” Discussing the foundation of the claim, Natale said, “The underlying dispute looks like a claim that the NCAA failed to accommodate a disability (e.g. an ADA claim based on a gambling addiction). But, it was brought as a breach of contract claim. A contract claim can be brought and maybe kept, in state court, which is likely a friendlier forum for this athlete.” Read the article.

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
Julianna Charpentier Recognized as an “Up & Coming Lawyer”