Michael R. Orce

Chief Operating Officer

Hartford, CT — 860.275.8260

Michael R. Orce

Chief Operating Officer

Hartford, CT — 860.275.8260

Michael R. Orce oversees the business operations and financial management of our firm. He provides leadership and direction to the functional departments, while working alongside firm leadership to ensure that our firm is responsive to evolving changes in the legal industry and providing strategic counsel in the business operations. Michael is an ex-officio member of the Managing Committee, the governing body of our firm, and works closely with the Managing Partner to achieve the strategic goals and objectives of our firm.

Michael is a forward-thinking individual who focuses on cross-functional teamwork to create efficiencies and process improvements in the delivery of legal services. By fostering a collaborative and positive environment, and engaging the lawyers and business professionals, he is able to bring together a diverse range of perspectives to solve complex challenges that arise in the running of our firm.

Fairleigh Dickinson (Masters)
- MBA
Mercy College (Bachelors)
- B.S. English/Journalism

Conversational Spanish

Honoree of C-Suite Award by the Hartford Business Journal, 2022

United States Law Firm Group
Committee Chair, Firm Administrators’ Group,
(2023 – Present)

Economic Development Commission, Town of Guilford, CT
Board Member (2016-2018)

Shoreline Vineyard Church, Guilford, CT
Trustee (2015-Present)

Firm Highlights

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.

Robinson+Cole Unites Multidisciplinary Sports Capabilities Under New Industry Team

Today, Robinson+Cole announced the formalization of its Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team, bringing together attorneys and professionals from the firm’s Immigration, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Education, Real Estate, Construction Law, Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Artificial Intelligence practices. The team draws on the firm’s extensive experience in these areas to provide coordinated counsel to sports leagues and teams, institutions, talent—athletes and coaches, investors, and sports-related businesses as they navigate issues involving name, image, and likeness (NIL), Title IX compliance, global mobility and sports tourism, media rights, private investment, emerging technologies, venue development, and the continued growth of women’s sports. "The sports industry represents an estimated $2.3 trillion global economy, and its continued growth is creating both opportunities and complexity across professional and collegiate athletics," said Robert C. Seiger, Chair of the new team. "As the sports industry continues to evolve, clients are increasingly seeking counsel that spans multiple disciplines and aligns with their broader strategic objectives. The formalization of this team reflects that demand and our commitment to serving clients across the sports ecosystem through an integrated approach." The team's focus will center on three strategic areas: Sports Immigration and Talent Mobility: Visa strategy, athlete and coach immigration, executive movement, global talent support, compliance, and mobility planning. Sports Venues, Infrastructure, and Development: Stadium and arena projects, training facilities, leasing and real estate transactions, construction and infrastructure matters, public and private financing, naming rights, sponsorship arrangements, and land use considerations. Collegiate Athletics and Institutional Risk Management: NIL matters, Title IX compliance, eligibility issues, employment matters, governance, investigations, litigation, licensing, and institutional risk management. Robinson+Cole's work spans athlete and executive mobility, intellectual property protection, commercial transactions, venue development, employment matters, investigations, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Representative matters include providing immigration and mobility services for NHL, NFL, MLS, and NWSL organizations, obtaining an industry-first O-1 visa for an IndyCar race team, representing professional race drivers and teams, managing trademark matters for high-profile sports figures, advising a WNBA organization on the design and construction of a new training facility, and handling real estate and leasing matters involving major sports properties. "This team reflects Robinson+Cole’s significant strength and capability across multiple disciplines to address the full range of issues facing sports organizations," said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. "Many of the challenges in today’s sports industry do not fit neatly within a single practice area. By formalizing this effort, we are creating a more coordinated experience for clients while positioning the firm to continue growing alongside this dynamic industry." Beyond its client work, Robinson+Cole is actively engaged in advancing the sports industry through leadership, scholarship, and engagement. Team members regularly contribute to national conversations on emerging sports law developments and are frequently sought by media outlets for commentary on issues affecting professional and collegiate athletics, most recently USA Today and the Sports Business Journal. They also participate in leading industry organizations, such as the Sports Lawyers Association, where Seiger currently serves as Chair of the Immigration Committee. The firm is recognized for its role at the intersection of sports and global talent mobility.

Robinson+Cole Expands Philadelphia Office at Landmark Liberty Place

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

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.

Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards

Robinson+Cole Recognized Across Practices and Regions with 46 Chambers USA 2026 Rankings

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.

Dana Horton Ascends to Presidency of Rhode Island Bar Association

Tyrese Maxey Foundation 2026 Friends & Family Weekend

Robinson+Cole is proud to be a sponsor of the Tyrese Maxey Foundation’s (TMF) 2026 Friends & Family Weekend event. The three-day event will kick off with a Night of Giving mixer and dinner, the second day will feature a Celebrity Golf Tournament, and the final day will take host to the foundation’s 1% Skills Camp for kids ages 7-12. All proceed benefit TMF’s mission to enhance youth development, education programs, and support local families and communities. For more information, click here.

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.

Robinson+Cole Unites Multidisciplinary Sports Capabilities Under New Industry Team

Today, Robinson+Cole announced the formalization of its Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team, bringing together attorneys and professionals from the firm’s Immigration, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Education, Real Estate, Construction Law, Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Artificial Intelligence practices. The team draws on the firm’s extensive experience in these areas to provide coordinated counsel to sports leagues and teams, institutions, talent—athletes and coaches, investors, and sports-related businesses as they navigate issues involving name, image, and likeness (NIL), Title IX compliance, global mobility and sports tourism, media rights, private investment, emerging technologies, venue development, and the continued growth of women’s sports. "The sports industry represents an estimated $2.3 trillion global economy, and its continued growth is creating both opportunities and complexity across professional and collegiate athletics," said Robert C. Seiger, Chair of the new team. "As the sports industry continues to evolve, clients are increasingly seeking counsel that spans multiple disciplines and aligns with their broader strategic objectives. The formalization of this team reflects that demand and our commitment to serving clients across the sports ecosystem through an integrated approach." The team's focus will center on three strategic areas: Sports Immigration and Talent Mobility: Visa strategy, athlete and coach immigration, executive movement, global talent support, compliance, and mobility planning. Sports Venues, Infrastructure, and Development: Stadium and arena projects, training facilities, leasing and real estate transactions, construction and infrastructure matters, public and private financing, naming rights, sponsorship arrangements, and land use considerations. Collegiate Athletics and Institutional Risk Management: NIL matters, Title IX compliance, eligibility issues, employment matters, governance, investigations, litigation, licensing, and institutional risk management. Robinson+Cole's work spans athlete and executive mobility, intellectual property protection, commercial transactions, venue development, employment matters, investigations, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Representative matters include providing immigration and mobility services for NHL, NFL, MLS, and NWSL organizations, obtaining an industry-first O-1 visa for an IndyCar race team, representing professional race drivers and teams, managing trademark matters for high-profile sports figures, advising a WNBA organization on the design and construction of a new training facility, and handling real estate and leasing matters involving major sports properties. "This team reflects Robinson+Cole’s significant strength and capability across multiple disciplines to address the full range of issues facing sports organizations," said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. "Many of the challenges in today’s sports industry do not fit neatly within a single practice area. By formalizing this effort, we are creating a more coordinated experience for clients while positioning the firm to continue growing alongside this dynamic industry." Beyond its client work, Robinson+Cole is actively engaged in advancing the sports industry through leadership, scholarship, and engagement. Team members regularly contribute to national conversations on emerging sports law developments and are frequently sought by media outlets for commentary on issues affecting professional and collegiate athletics, most recently USA Today and the Sports Business Journal. They also participate in leading industry organizations, such as the Sports Lawyers Association, where Seiger currently serves as Chair of the Immigration Committee. The firm is recognized for its role at the intersection of sports and global talent mobility.

Robinson+Cole Expands Philadelphia Office at Landmark Liberty Place

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

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.

Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards

Robinson+Cole Recognized Across Practices and Regions with 46 Chambers USA 2026 Rankings

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.

Dana Horton Ascends to Presidency of Rhode Island Bar Association

Tyrese Maxey Foundation 2026 Friends & Family Weekend

Robinson+Cole is proud to be a sponsor of the Tyrese Maxey Foundation’s (TMF) 2026 Friends & Family Weekend event. The three-day event will kick off with a Night of Giving mixer and dinner, the second day will feature a Celebrity Golf Tournament, and the final day will take host to the foundation’s 1% Skills Camp for kids ages 7-12. All proceed benefit TMF’s mission to enhance youth development, education programs, and support local families and communities. For more information, click here.

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.

Robinson+Cole Unites Multidisciplinary Sports Capabilities Under New Industry Team

Today, Robinson+Cole announced the formalization of its Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team, bringing together attorneys and professionals from the firm’s Immigration, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Education, Real Estate, Construction Law, Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Artificial Intelligence practices. The team draws on the firm’s extensive experience in these areas to provide coordinated counsel to sports leagues and teams, institutions, talent—athletes and coaches, investors, and sports-related businesses as they navigate issues involving name, image, and likeness (NIL), Title IX compliance, global mobility and sports tourism, media rights, private investment, emerging technologies, venue development, and the continued growth of women’s sports. "The sports industry represents an estimated $2.3 trillion global economy, and its continued growth is creating both opportunities and complexity across professional and collegiate athletics," said Robert C. Seiger, Chair of the new team. "As the sports industry continues to evolve, clients are increasingly seeking counsel that spans multiple disciplines and aligns with their broader strategic objectives. The formalization of this team reflects that demand and our commitment to serving clients across the sports ecosystem through an integrated approach." The team's focus will center on three strategic areas: Sports Immigration and Talent Mobility: Visa strategy, athlete and coach immigration, executive movement, global talent support, compliance, and mobility planning. Sports Venues, Infrastructure, and Development: Stadium and arena projects, training facilities, leasing and real estate transactions, construction and infrastructure matters, public and private financing, naming rights, sponsorship arrangements, and land use considerations. Collegiate Athletics and Institutional Risk Management: NIL matters, Title IX compliance, eligibility issues, employment matters, governance, investigations, litigation, licensing, and institutional risk management. Robinson+Cole's work spans athlete and executive mobility, intellectual property protection, commercial transactions, venue development, employment matters, investigations, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Representative matters include providing immigration and mobility services for NHL, NFL, MLS, and NWSL organizations, obtaining an industry-first O-1 visa for an IndyCar race team, representing professional race drivers and teams, managing trademark matters for high-profile sports figures, advising a WNBA organization on the design and construction of a new training facility, and handling real estate and leasing matters involving major sports properties. "This team reflects Robinson+Cole’s significant strength and capability across multiple disciplines to address the full range of issues facing sports organizations," said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. "Many of the challenges in today’s sports industry do not fit neatly within a single practice area. By formalizing this effort, we are creating a more coordinated experience for clients while positioning the firm to continue growing alongside this dynamic industry." Beyond its client work, Robinson+Cole is actively engaged in advancing the sports industry through leadership, scholarship, and engagement. Team members regularly contribute to national conversations on emerging sports law developments and are frequently sought by media outlets for commentary on issues affecting professional and collegiate athletics, most recently USA Today and the Sports Business Journal. They also participate in leading industry organizations, such as the Sports Lawyers Association, where Seiger currently serves as Chair of the Immigration Committee. The firm is recognized for its role at the intersection of sports and global talent mobility.

Robinson+Cole Expands Philadelphia Office at Landmark Liberty Place

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

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.

Robinson+Cole Recognized at 2026 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards