Robinson+Cole Receives 42 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Six National Rankings in Latest Edition of Best Law Firms®

Robinson+Cole received 42 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 27 in the city of Hartford, in the 2024 Edition of Best Law Firms®. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

Robinson+Cole also received six national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and Tier 3 rankings in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Insurance Law, and Labor Law - Management. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2023 Super Lawyers®

A total of 35 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2023. In addition, 27 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Appellate Group chair Linda L. Morkan and Manufacturing Industry Team chair Jeffrey J. White were named to the Top 50: 2023 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda also appears on the Top 25: 2023 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Achieves Mansfield Rule Certification Plus

Robinson+Cole is proud to announce that it has achieved Mansfield Rule Certification Plus. This marks the fourth consecutive year of certification after a year-long review process. The Firm is among only half of the certified law firms to receive the Mansfield Certification Plus designation, which measures the structural changes and steps the firm has taken over the past year to ensure paths to leadership are open and transparent to all qualified lawyers.

“Achieving Mansfield Certification Plus is validation that our organizational processes are supporting clearer paths to leadership for Robinson+Cole lawyers.” said Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda Tobin. “We’re so proud of our continued efforts to create a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where our lawyers and professional staff have the resources needed to succeed.” Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Recognized in 2024 Edition of Benchmark Litigation

Robinson+Cole was again ranked as a “highly recommended” firm in Connecticut in the 2024 edition of Benchmark Litigation – “the Definitive Guide to America’s Leading Firm and Attorneys”.

The following Robinson+Cole lawyers earned a litigation star honor: Wystan M. Ackerman, Bradford S. Babbitt, Patrick W. Begos,  Joseph L. Clasen, Gerald P. Dwyer Jr., Edward J. Heath, Linda L. Morkan, Rhonda J. Tobin, Theodore J. Tucci, and Jeffrey J. White. This past August, Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda Tobin was also named one of Benchmark Litigation‘s Top 250 Women in Litigation for 2023 for the tenth consecutive year. Once again, she was the only female litigator chosen in the state of Connecticut for 2023. In addition, Stephen W. Aronson and Rachel V. Kushel received the “Labor & Employment Star” recognition. Read more in the press release.

Seasoned Litigator David Carney Joins Robinson+Cole as Partner to Continue Expansion of its Washington, DC Office and Deepen Litigation Capabilities

Less than a year after opening its newest office in Washington, DC, Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the addition of former Skadden litigator David E. Carney as a partner in the firm’s Business Litigation Group, furthering the firm’s growth strategy. Carney has significant and varied experience in government enforcement, internal investigations, complex civil litigation, and corporate compliance programs. Prior to joining Robinson+Cole, Carney practiced law for more than two decades at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.

“Adding David to our growing Washington, DC office expands our capabilities within that market and is consistent with our strategic plan to deepen the strength of our already talented and sophisticated litigation team to further support our client service needs,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. Read more in the press release.

Keisha Palmer Supports State of Connecticut During Presentation of The Bond Buyer’s Innovative Financing Award

Public Finance Group lawyer and Hartford office partner-in-charge Keisha Palmer attended The Bond Buyer’s 2023 Deal of the Year Awards presented in New York City on December 5, 2023 where firm client, the State of Connecticut, was presented with the magazine’s Deal of the Year for Innovative Financing award for the “CT Baby Bonds” program. The program substituted an existing bond reserve fund with surety policy, providing multi-year funding assurance, fully funding the CT Baby Bonds trust up front, while maintaining its commitment to existing bondholders. The CT Baby Bonds was designed to combat systemic poverty by directly investing in children at birth. Keisha and David Panico, Public Finance Group chair, serve as co-tax counsel to the State of Connecticut. Read more about the awards.

Robinson+Cole Participates in Diversity Lab’s Disability Inclusion Commitments

Robinson+Cole is among 90 law firms in the US, UK, and Canada to collaborate with the Diversity Lab in an effort to continue building a culture of inclusion for people with disabilities by implementing one or more of the actions listed on the recently launched Disability Inclusion Commitments. Announced on December 5, 2023, the list is comprised of 10 actions that law firms, legal departments, and other organizations can take to increase inclusion and equitable access to opportunities for disabled individuals in the legal profession. The Disability Inclusion Commitments aim to increase the focus on this important underrepresented group of talent. Read more.

The Roffe Group of Robinson+Cole Once Again Named to City & State New York's Power List of Top Lobbyists

The Roffe Group of Robinson+Cole, headed by Andrew Roffe, a Robinson+Cole partner since 2002, has been named #26 in City & State New York’s 2023 Power List of the Top Lobbyists in New York State. The Roffe Group was formally added to Robinson+Cole in January 2022 after collaborating with the firm for nearly two decades, as a testament to Robinson+Cole’s commitment to expanding its footprint in New York State government and regulatory representation, adding depth to the New York government affairs practice and strengthening a key area of historical focus. Rounding out the Government Relations Group are Managing Director, Christine Rutigliano; Patrick Zlogar, Director of Government Relations; Alexandra Moore, Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs; Caley Taratus, Director of Legislative Affairs; and Allison Sheedy, Office Administrator.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Named to the Connecticut District Court’s 2023 Pro Bono Honor Roll

Hartford lawyers J. Tyler Butts, Jason DePatie, Edward Heath, and Rachel Kushel were among the lawyers named to the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut's 2023 Pro Bono Honor Roll. The recognition highlights their accepted appointments and devotion in rendering pro bono legal services to unrepresented litigants in civil cases in the state of Connecticut who could otherwise not afford it. View the Pro Bono Honor Roll.

Sean Griffin Speaks with The Cyber Queens Live Podcast on Cybersecurity, Privacy and AI

Artificial Intelligence Team partner Sean C. Griffin was featured in an episode of The Cyber Queens Live Podcast. In their lively and fast moving discussion, Sean shared insight about his business litigation background and about the unexpected challenge in passing cybersecurity certification tests. Sean identified artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT among the hottest cyber issues today, warning against it being used too frequently in legal writing because it’s a “stochastic parrot;” basically “a word prediction machine….that will give you words that come after other words that sound good. It’s not actually writing, it’s guessing.” When asked who or which agency will eventually oversee AI, Sean explained that “what’s going to eventually happen is the industry will say we need some regulations here. Because we’re getting sued willy nilly...Companies hate being sued 50 different times in 50 different states.” He said there’s a push right now for a federal law regarding data breach, as an example. “We’ll just have one standard that we can follow and if we break the law we get sued in federal court…It would be good to have one standard across the country.” Sean said that in his presentations on AI he counsels to “insert a human early into the process…so that they can catch things that a human will catch” but that a computer simply can’t. “Your recourse is to not rely too much on AI for things it just can’t do.” Watch the podcast.

Capital Markets + Securities Team Represents Global Lights Acquisition Corp in IPO

The Capital Markets + Securities Team (the Team) was pleased to represent Global Lights Acquisition Corp (Global Lights), a special purpose acquisition corporation incorporated in the Cayman Islands, in its recent initial public offering. On November 16, 2023, Global Lights completed its $69 million IPO of 6,900,000 units at $10 per unit (including units sold upon the full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option). The units began trading on the Nasdaq Global Market under the ticker symbol “GLACU” on November 14, 2023. The team advising on the offering was led by Team Chair, Arila Zhou, and included Yang Xu and Zhe (Emmett) Tan. Read more.

Linn Freedman Quoted on Cyber-attack Threat Factors for Healthcare Providers in ED Management

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity chair Linn Freedman was quoted in an article titled, “Legal, Safety, and Regulatory Risks if Cyberattack Forces ED to Shut Down,” which published in ED Management. Linn provides insight on cyber-attacks targeting health care providers, stating, “Threat actors are attacking healthcare providers at an unprecedented rate,” magnifying the risks of emergency care providers being unable to access vital patient data. She also elaborates on regulatory and compliance issues caused by cyber-attacks, “If there is a disruption in care, or delays in treatment or adverse results, the state department of health has every right and opportunity to investigate the cause of the incident – and could investigate the ED’s security measures.” The article goes on to highlight various signs of cyber-attacks and the risks of implementing AI technology into workflows. Read the article.

Kendra Berardi and Kristen Spirou Recognized as a KIND 2023 Pro Bono Team of the Year.

Business Litigation Group lawyer Kendra Berardi and Real Estate + Development Group lawlyer Kristen Spirou were recognized as a Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) 2023 Pro Bono Team of the Year. The distinction is based on exceptional contributions to KIND cases-recognizing outstanding attorneys and volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their assistance to unaccompanied children this year. Kendra and Kristen were featured in a write-up posted to the organization's blog on October 23, 2023. 

Kendra Berardi Recognized as a Massachusetts “Go To Lawyer” in Commercial Real Estate

Real Estate and Title Insurance Team lawyer Kendra L. Berardi was recognized as a “Massachusetts Go To Lawyer” in the area of Commercial Real Estate by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly (MLW) and profiled in a special section published on November 6, 2023. The “Massachusetts Go To Lawyers” feature was debuted by MLW in 2020 to showcase leaders in the Massachusetts legal community by practice area. A “Go To Lawyer” is: an expert in his or her field; a senior attorney well-versed in case law, statutes and regulations; experienced, with a record of success in cases and/or transactions; a lawyer to whom other lawyers make referrals because of his or her expertise and accomplishments; and a lawyer who can think creatively and identify all options for a client. This year’s Go To Lawyers were nominated by their peers and chosen by a MLW panel. Read the special section.

Dan Brody Presents on Panel in Recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Business Litigation Group lawyer Dan Brody was among the panelists that presented during a special program organized by the University of Connecticut School of Law’s Family Law Association and Women Law Students’ Association hosted in recognition of domestic violence awareness month. The panel was hosted at the Law School on October 26, 2023. Dan has been co-facilitating R+C’s Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) efforts since his first year at the firm, and is the primary point of contact for referrals from the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV). 

Ryan Hoyler Authors Case Law Digest Article on California Ruling on Short-Term Rental Prohibition Under Dormant Commerce Clause

Real Estate + Development lawyer Ryan Hoyler authored the article, “California Appellate Court Holds Annual Permits Allowing Short-Term Rentals Do Not Provide Vested Rights, But Communities Must Justify Exempting Residents from Short-Term Rental Prohibition Under Dormant Commerce Clause,” published in the American Planning Association (APA) Planning Law Division’s (PLD) Case Law Digest on September 1, 2023. In the article, Ryan details a California Court of Appeals ruling that held that there was no violation of vested property rights for short-term rentals operating under annual permits issued by the City of South Lake Tahoe. The City of South Lake Tahoe’s short-term rental regulations were amended in 2018 by popular vote to not permit any vacation home rental within any residential zone, with minor exemptions. An association of owners and managers of vacation rental homes sued the city over the amended regulations. The court initially dismissed the plaintiffs’ case on summary judgement with an appellate court subsequently upholding ruling. However, Ryan highlights that while the court upheld the ruling there were measures that facially violated the dormant commerce clause because the regulations permitted residents to engage in short-term rentals for a period of time while prohibiting non-residents from the same. The case is back in trial court to brief the dormant commerce issues more fully. To read the article, click here.

Peter Knight Accepts Invitation to Join Legal Food Hub’s First Attorney Council

Pro Bono Committee Chair Peter Knight has accepted an invitation to become a member of the Legal Food Hub’s first Attorney Council. Comprised of attorneys from across New England, Council members serve as advisors to the Legal Food Hub which provides pro bono legal services to farmers, food entrepreneurs, and organizations that support them. The Legal Food Hub is active in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, & Vermont. Learn more.

Dan Brody Delivers Remarks at CBA-YLS Pro Bono Fair

Business Litigation Group lawyer Dan Brody delivered remarks during the Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS) Pro Bono Fair hosted at the Hartford Golf Club on October 19, 2023. The annual event included eleven pro bono organizations that participated in the fair by presenting introductions to their services and informing attendees about volunteer opportunities. As chair of the CBA’s Pro Bono Committee, Dan shared details regarding the Association’s various pro bono programs and noted that pro bono work can provide valuable experience to young attorneys. “When you take on these pro bono cases and you’re the real driver behind them, what you’ll also learn is a lot about yourself and how you are as a lawyer and your style.” Read more.

Linn Freedman Quoted in Bloomberg Law on Just Released FTC Cyber Breach Reporting Rules

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team chair Linn F. Freedman was quoted in the article “Federal Cyber Breach Reporting Rules Reach an Uneasy Balance,” published in Bloomberg Law on October 31, 2023. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission announced on Friday, October 28, final amendments to its Safeguards Rule requiring non-bank lenders to report information about the scope of security incidents within 30 days . Linn commented that, “[I]t is a difficult patchwork to know all the different entities, depending on what industry you are in, that you have to notify” after a security incident.

Amanda Eckhoff Among Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly’s 2023 “Top Women of Law”

Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Amanda S. Eckhoff was selected for inclusion as one of Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly's 2023 Top Women of Law, a recognition that celebrates the achievements of exceptional women lawyers who are pioneers, educators, trailblazers and role models. Amanda was featured in a special issue of the publication and honored during an event held on November 1, 2023.

Linda Morkan Completes Term as Leader of the UConn Law School Alumni Association

Appellate Practice Group chair Linda L. Morkan has completed her one-year term as President of the University of Connecticut Law School Alumni Association Board of Directors. Linda’s service as Board leader came to a close during the Alumni Association’s Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on October 26, 2023, where she transitioned to the role of Immediate Past President. Prior to becoming President, she served as president-elect and vice president as well as secretary and has been a member of the Association’s Board of Directors since 2018. The Alumni Association is dedicated to cultivating the spirit of community and pride among those who have attended the law school and contributes to the advancement of the law school and the legal profession. Linda was a volunteer adjunct professor at the University of Connecticut School of Law for more than a decade, teaching appellate advocacy skills to first-year law students.

Eden Yerby Co-Authors Roger Williams Law Review Article on Forced Disclosures

Real Estate + Development Group law clerk Eden Yerby co-authored an article titled, “Forced Disclosures: The Reality Transgender People Face in Entering the Legal Field,” which published in the Roger Williams Law Review: Justice for All edition on October 23, 2023. In the article, Eden provides insight on the overlooked minority of transgender people in the legal profession, the array of forced disclosures they face before, during, and after law school, and remedies to alleviate these stressors for future law students and professionals. To read the article, click here.

Francesco Mioli Presented with Impact Award by UConn School of Law Alumni Association

Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Francesco Mioli was among the recipients presented with the 2023 Graduates of the Last Decade Impact Award by the University of Connecticut (UConn) School of Law Alumni Association during its Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on October 26, 2023. The award is presented to a few attorneys each year who graduated from UConn School of Law within the past decade, and whose careers have already had a substantial and positive impact within the legal community and beyond.

Norm Roos Quoted in National Mortgage Professional on Blockchain Technology in the Mortgage Industry

Financial Services Cyber-Compliance Team lawyer, Norman Roos, was quoted in an article titled, “A Quest For the Digitally Confounded,” that published in the October 2023 issue of National Mortgage Professional magazine. The article details how blockchain technology is viewed as a tool by mortgage and banking system experts. Norm commented on blockchain’s impact on the mortgage industry saying, “When you look at the technological impact on the mortgage industry so far, largely blockchain hasn’t played a role.” Using the 2008 financial crisis as an example, Norm recalled how little people understood a new facet in finance known as collateralized debt only to be duped by complex asset-back security when the crisis took hold. “This tool, which was thought to be a very efficient tool, turned out to be terribly misused. I think with blockchain, while it's not the same…I don’t know anybody who really understands it. I don’t think blockchain is going to transform the mortgage industry anytime soon.” To read the article, click here.

Natale DiNatale Authors Union Representation Article Published in High Profile

Labor Relations Group chair Natale V. DiNatale authored an article in High Profile titled, “Construction Employers Beware: New, Easier Union Representation Process,” published on October 24, 2023. Originally featured on the firm’s Construction Law Zone blog, the article highlights the new NLRB standard that makes it easier for unions to represent construction employees without a secret ballot election and how employers must adjust to this change. Natale emphasizes that employers should gather internal stakeholders to set priorities, identify risks and develop action items to ensure a plan is in place before any issues arise. In addition, he advises employers to train supervisors to properly communicate with employees about unions and ensure that workplace policies comply with the new NLRB standards. Read the article.

Ed Heath and Kate Dion Appointed to Committees for the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut

Business Litigation Group chair Edward J. Heath and Education Industry Team Chair Kathleen E. Dion have been appointed by Chief United States District Judge for the District of Connecticut Michael P. Shea to serve on committees for the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut. 

Ed will serve as Counsel to the Federal Grievance Committee for the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut. The Committee investigates and makes recommendations regarding the disposition of complaints alleging misconduct by those persons admitted to practice in the District. Ed previously spent two years as a member of the Committee before Judge Shea appointed him to serve as Counsel. 

Kate has been appointed to serve on the District Court’s Criminal Justice Act (CJA) Standing Committee, which makes recommendations to the Judges concerning membership in the CJA Panel. CJA Panel members, dedicated attorneys with experience and proven competence in the area of federal criminal defense, represent indigent defendants who are charged with criminal offenses in Federal Court, at both the trial and appellate level. Kate’s term begins January 1, 2024 and goes through December 31, 2025.

Dan Brody Presented with CAPABA’s Rising Star Award

Business Litigation Group, Government Enforcement and White-Collar Defense Team, and Internal Investigations and Corporate Compliance Team lawyer Dan Brody was presented with the Rising Star Award as part of the Connecticut Asian Pacific American Bar Association (CAPABA) 2023 Annual Gala Dinner on October 25, 2023. CAPABA's mission is to support Asian Pacific American attorneys and communities as well as those interested in Asian Pacific American legal issues throughout the state of Connecticut. Dan led CAPABA as President from 2019 to 2021. Robinson+Cole was pleased to be a sponsor of the event.

R+C Lawyers Recognized for Pro Bono Service Provided to the New York State Courts Access to Justice Program

Ten R+C lawyers were selected to receive a certificate of recognition as part of the New York County Lawyers Association’s Pro Bono Awards ceremony for their dedicated service to the New York State Courts Access to Justice Program: Lisa Andrzejewski, Tim Chen, Nicholas Enriquez, Sabrina Galli, Erica Kerstein, Janet Kljyan, Eric Lankton, Tiffany Liu, Alexis Stevens and Anna Wang.

Hosted with the New York State Bar Association and New York State Unified Court System’s Office for Justice Initiatives in celebration of National Pro Bono week, the ceremony took place on October 19, 2023. The New York State Courts Access to Justice Program is one of the Unified Court System’s many programs and initiatives which strive to increase access, improve the delivery of justice and promote public confidence in the courts.

Abby Warren Quoted in Hartford Business Journal on Employer Guidance For Upcoming COVID, Cold & Flu Season

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was quoted in the article “With COVID-19 emergency orders lifted, employers seek guidance on workplace precautions,” published in the Hartford Business Journal on October 16, 2023. Abby noted that when Connecticut saw a jump in COVID-19 cases in September, she began receiving calls from employers interested in policy recommendations for employees who get exposed to the virus. She anticipates the number of these calls increasing in the weeks and months ahead as colder, drier weather and holiday gatherings bring on the annual respiratory virus season along with a rise in COVID infection and exposure. With the end of state and federal emergency COVID-19 declarations, Abby suggested that “now is an especially good time of year for employers to update the relevant policies.” Read the article.

Lisa Boyle Selected to Hartford Business Journal’s 2023 Power 25 Health Care List

Health Law Group chair Lisa M. Boyle has been selected for inclusion in the Hartford Business Journal’s (HBJ) 2023 Power 25 Health Care class, which identifies leaders who have had a significant impact on the industry and public health as chosen and ranked by the publication’s editorial team. Lisa was profiled in a special section of the HBJ published on October 16, 2023. With decades of experience in complex legal matters, Lisa is an experienced advisor relied upon by health care executives for day-to-day counseling and organization-defining strategic transactions. She has been responsible for many largescale health system transactions in Connecticut and the northeast, including two complicated cross-border affiliations, as well as some market shifting certificates of need approved by the Connecticut Office of Health Strategy. Lisa has also guided the largest independent clinically integrated network in the state since its creation in the 1990s to become a multi-state provider network. One of Lisa’s greatest legacies as a health care leader, in addition to her counseling and advocacy on behalf of clients, is the proliferation of health care lawyers throughout Connecticut – at hospitals and in private practice – who were trained and mentored by Lisa and who now are leaders in their own right. Read more in the profile.

Linn Freedman Quoted in Bloomberg Law on Tracking Pixels and Data Collection

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity chair, Linn Freedman, was quoted in an article titled, “Scrutiny on Tracking Pixels Signals Shift for Data Collection,” published in Bloomberg Law on October 16, 2023. The article details how tracking pixels are in the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) crosshairs as lawsuits pile up concerning the collection, disclosure, and dissemination of consumer data. In-house counsel are taking stock of their internal collection controls and incorporating more transparency over the tracking software they use. “As a result of this litigation, companies are being way more specific, so that if a consumer reads the privacy policy, then they will have a little more idea of how pixel technology is being used,” Linn told Bloomberg Law. “When both the FTC and the OCR come out with guidance, general counsel should be looking at that guidance, because it provides some idea of how regulators are looking at this.” Read the article.

Linn Freedman Presents During Providence Business News 2023 Cybersecurity and Tech Summit

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team chair Linn Freedman was among speakers that presented during the “Cybersecurity: Why you can’t let your guard down” panel as part of the Providence Business News 2023 Cybersecurity and Tech Summit hosted on October 12, 2023. In an article summarizing the event published on October 13, 2023 Linn was quoted from the panel discussion indicating that "99% of victims end up paying out ransoms. She implored the attendees to create an incident response team if they don’t already have one. And never try and reason with cybercriminals privately, Freedman said." Linn went on to say that "While ransomware, which hackers use to lock people out of their own data, remains a problem, email phishing attacks more than doubled in 2023, said Freedman, who has seen the evolution of hacking groups. Many now have a corporate model with top-down management and delegated authority. And with the average ransom payment exceeding $1 million, businesses need to get the proper insurance." Read the article.

 

Les Levinson Quoted in Home Health Care News on Investors Shifting Focus

Robinson+Cole Transactional Health Law Group Co-Chair Leslie J. Levinson was quoted in the article “Given Reimbursement Challenges In Home Health Care, Investors Are Beginning to Look Elsewhere,” published in Home Health Care News (HHCN) on October 11, 2023. The article explores whether “amid reimbursement uncertainty in Medicare-certified home heath” that investors are shifting their focus and seeking opportunities in other types of home-based care. Despite these uncertainties, Les believes demand is still relatively strong. “I think broad-based buyers, meaning those that aren’t just in one vertical, are always looking for opportunities,” Les told HHCN. “Certainly the turmoil recently in Washington D.C., adds another layer of uncertainty to the market generally, but I don’t necessarily see certain firms going after other areas looking for stability because I think the stability [in home health] is fine. Read the article.

Robinson+Cole Represents EF Hutton as the Sole Book-Running manager in Quetta Acquisition Corp. IPO

Robinson+Cole’s Capital Markets + Securities Team (the Team) was pleased to represent EF Hutton, division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, as the sole book-running manager in the initial public offering of Quetta Acquisition Corp. (Quetta), a special purpose acquisition corporation incorporated in the Cayman Islands. On October 11, 2023, Quetta completed its $69 million IPO of 6,900,000 units at $10 per unit (including units sold upon the full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option). The units began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “QETA” on October 6, 2023. The Team advising on the offering was led by partners Arila E. Zhou and Ze'-ev E. Eiger and supported by team members Tiange (Tim) Chen and Hongye (Eve) Mao. Read more.

Jeff White Authors Hartford Business Journal Article on Misconceptions About ‘Buy American”

Manufacturing Industry Team chair Jeffrey J. White authored the article “Dispelling misconceptions about ‘Buy American,’ other related laws,” published in the Hartford Business Journal on October 2, 2023. In the “Experts Corner” article, Jeff highlights the distinctions between the familiar terms “Buy America,” “Buy American,” “Made in the USA,” and “Made in America,” and the types of economic opportunities each term presents. The “Buy American” law was passed by Congress in 1933 and signed by President Hoover during his last day in office. It applies to all goods purchased by the U.S. federal government, valued at more than $10,000, with the requirement that these goods be “produced in the U.S.” Jeff reminds readers to “not confuse these laws with “Made in the USA” or “Made in America” laws,” which relate to claims from manufacturers and marketers regarding the amount of U.S. content in a product. Read the article.

Megan Naughton and Lauren Sigg Provide Update to CBIA Regarding the New Form I-9

Immigration Group co-chair Megan R. Naughton and partner Lauren M. Sigg co-authored the article, “What Employers Should Know About the Updated I-9 Form,” published online by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA) on September 28, 2023. In their article, discussed DHS’ new Form I-9, including the new alternative/remote I-9 document inspection and verification process permitted for E-Verify employers. The article also discussed the E-Verify program, including pros and cons regarding the program. Read the article.

Linn Freedman Discusses the Legal Industry’s Use of AI in Hartford Business Journal Cover Story

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team chair Linn F. Freedman discussed the growing use of artificial intelligence by law firms in the article “Attorneys slowly embrace AI, but urge caution as technology rapidly evolves,” published in the Hartford Business Journal on October 2, 2023. In the cover story, Linn confirmed that “AI is here to stay” and that “AI tools are brilliant when it comes to increasing efficiency…” But she also acknowledged that “…the output is only as good as the input,” explaining that if the information that goes into an AI database is inaccurate the output will be inaccurate too. Among the pitfalls Linn sees with the use of AI is the unauthorized use of intellectual property. She pointed out that there have been numerous litigation matters filed “by authors, artists and others alleging that their information, their intellectual property, has been stolen and is being used to provide machine learning without permission, without licensing, without royalties. So, I think that’s an area of risk that all companies, including law firms, need to be thinking about.” Linn advises companies using generative AI to appoint a stakeholder team that evaluates risks and sets organizational strategies and controls around its use. Read the article.

Conor Duffy and Abby Warren Named to Hartford Business Journal’s 2023 “40 Under Forty” Class

Health Law Group lawyer Conor Duffy and Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby Warren have been selected by the Hartford Business Journal for inclusion in its 2023 “40 Under Forty” class, which showcases up-and-coming professionals who are leading their organizations and represent the promising future of the city, region, and state. The honorees were each profiled in a special section published in the August 21, 2023, edition of the Hartford Business Journal and recognized during a special ceremony on September 28, 2023. View Conor and Abby's profiles.

Robinson+Cole Represents TradeUP Acquisition Corp. in Complex DeSPAC Transaction with Estrella Biopharma, Inc.

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce that it has represented TradeUP Acquisition Corp. (UPTD) in the closing of its business combination with Estrella Biopharma, Inc., a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing T-cell therapies with the capacity to address treatment challenges for patients with blood cancers and solid tumors. The transaction, valuing the post-combination combined entity at $325 million, was announced on October 3, 2022, and was closed on September 29, 2023. The combined public company, Estrella Immunopharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: ESLA), will commence trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market on Monday, October 2, 2023.

The team advising on the transaction, led by Arila E. Zhou, included Capital Market + Securities Team members Yang Xu, Tiange (Tim) Chen, Yi (Tiffany) Liu and Samuel C. Maduabueke. The cross-disciplinary team was also supported by Business Transactions Group lawyer Kiernan L. Ignacio, Transactional Health Law Group co-chair Leslie J. Levinson, Intellectual Property + Technology Group co-chair John L. Cordani and Intellectual Property + Technology Group partner Kathleen M. Porter. Read more.

Krista Patterson Featured in New York Real Estate Journal’s 2023 Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight

Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Krista Patterson was among those selected by the New York Real Estate Journal to be featured in the publication’s “Women in Commercial Real Estate” spotlight. Published in the September 26, 2023 issue, the spotlight “recognize[s] noteworthy accomplishments and praiseworthy contributions of women currently working in New York's commercial real estate industry.” Krista describes who/what qualities inspire her and shares a project from the last year that she is most proud of. The profile also includes a quote from Real Estate + Development Group chair Matthew J. Lawlor as to why Krista should be recognized. Read the profile.

Virginia McGarrity Elected Secretary of The Connecticut Forum

Employee Benefits + Compensation Group lawyer Virginia E. McGarrity was elected to serve as Secretary of The Connecticut Forum Board of Directors. Founded in 1992, The Connecticut Forum is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Connecticut and beyond with live, unscripted panel discussions among renowned experts and celebrities. Forums are presented four times per year to audiences at The Bushnell theater in Hartford. Robinson+Cole is a proud sponsor of the 2023-24 season featuring, among others, Academy Award-nominated documentarian Ken Burns, former U.S. Representative Liz Cheney, and James Beard Award winner Chef Marcus Samuelsson. Learn more about The Connecticut Forum and its upcoming season.

Danielle Tangorre Comments in The Dark Report on Rulings in No Surprises Act Court Challenges

Health Law Group lawyer Danielle H. Tangorre was quoted in the article, “No Surprises Act Sparks a Slew of Court Decisions,” published in The Dark Report on September 11, 2023. The No Surprises Act requires insurers to determine the Qualifying Payment Amount (QPA) for the “same or a similar service that is delivered by a provider in the same or similar specialty” in the geographic region where the service is provided. The issue of QPA came up repeatedly in the court rulings. In August, parts of the government’s interim final rule that dealt with QPA calculation was struck down in a case brought by the Texas Medical Association. “QPA is thorny,” stated Danielle. “The government and the Texas Medical Association have taken very different approaches to interpretation of the statute regarding QPA. Part of the issue from the Texas Medical Association’s perspective—which represents the providers—is that the QPA can be an amorphous number that is hard to judge because a lot of the data used to calculate it is held only by the insurance companies.” Danielle reminded clinical lab managers and pathologists that the No Surprises Act does not apply to all diagnostic testing, which is an important delineation.

“There are discrete circumstances where laboratories are impacted by the No Surprises Act. If a lab gets referrals from a hospital or an urgent care center, then the lab needs to be following the No Surprises Act. “But if a lab gets its referrals from a doctor’s office or substance abuse facility, for example, the majority of the No Surprises Act doesn’t apply,” she added. Read the article.

Kathryn Rattigan, Lauren Sigg and Anthony Vogel Recognized as "New Leaders in the Law"

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn Rattigan, Immigration Group lawyer Lauren Sigg and Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Anthony Vogel were recognized as "New Leaders in the Law" as part of Law.com's 2023 New England Legal Awards on September 21, 2023, which celebrated professional excellence in law in Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The New Leader in the Law distinction spotlights lawyers under the age of 40 who have excelled in the courtroom, in client service and cultivation, in service to bar associations, and in performing pro bono work or community service in a volunteer capacity.

Marty Onorato Appointed to Lead CT Bar Assoc. Construction Law Section

Construction Group chair Martin A. Onorato has been appointed to serve a two-year term as chair of the Connecticut Bar Association’s (CBA) Construction Law Section. Marty has previously served as a member of the Section’s Executive Committee in the role of Secretary and Treasurer as well as its Legislative Liaison, serving as the primary contact between the Section and the CBA's Legislative Policy and Review Committee as it pertains to relevant legislation affecting the area of construction law. The Construction Law Section aims to bring together CBA members practicing construction law to discuss current issues affecting that practice area, educate the membership on legal issues impacting these rapidly developing topics, and to foster productive relationships between the attorneys and members of the construction industry.

Bill Egan Comments on Impact of Arbitrator Bias Confusion in Law360

Business Litigation Group lawyer William J. Egan provided comments for the article, “Arbitrator Bias Confusion Pervades Bids to Vacate Awards,” published in Law360 on September 11, 2023. In two cases this summer, the Second Circuit and Eleventh Circuit courts turned away petitions to vacate arbitral awards that totaled $677 million. Both cases involved the arbitrators’ failure to disclose certain relationships that, it was argued, showed “evident partiality.” As an arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association, Bill commented that "While a failure to make complete disclosures does not automatically result in the undisclosed relationship forming the basis for vacating an award, a court may still examine the arbitrator's relationships and a finding of bias may be possible." Read the article.

Lawrence Heffernan Named to Inaugural Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame

Real Estate Litigation and Title Insurance Team chair and Business Litigation Group member, Lawrence Heffernan was among the honorees named to the inaugural Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame, which is reserved for Massachusetts lawyers ages 60 and older who have been practicing for 30 years or more. Larry was recognized during an awards ceremony on September 12, 2023 in Boston, MA and profiled in a special section released the same day. Members of the Hall of Fame "are icons of the local legal community — lawyers who have made their mark in a range of practice areas. [They] reflect the range of legal excellence that Massachusetts has to offer." Read the special section.

Joe Barra Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on Appeals Court Reversal of Mechanic’s Lien Reduction

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was quoted in the article, “Equipment that sat ‘idle’ doesn’t reduce mechanic’s lien,” published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on September 9, 2023. The article examines the Appeals Court reversal of a Superior Court decision where the judge reduced the recorded $697,000 in mechanic’s liens to $180,000. Joe commented that while the decision may comply with all the technical requirements of the lien law, it misses the bigger picture. “The decision explicitly states that Chapter 93A created new substantive rights by making conduct unlawful that was not unlawful under common law or prior statutory law. If that is the case, then this court should have used its plenary authority to invalidate the lien in its entirety, as it was apparently procured under false pretenses,” Joe said. “It seems silly that in the ordinary case, a legitimate claimant who misses a lien deadline or makes a technical mistake in its lien filing can lose all lien rights under the statute, but a lien scheme that has been judicially declared to be unfair or deceptive can nevertheless survive.” Read the article.

Keisha Palmer Honored During “100 Women of Color Gala & Awards”

Public Finance Group lawyer and partner in charge of Robinson+Cole’s Hartford office, Keisha Palmer was among the honorees recognized during the "100 Women of Color Gala & Awards" hosted at The Bushnell in Hartford, CT on September 8, 2023. The awards recognize the extraordinary contributions made by women of color in business, education, entrepreneurship, entertainment, government and public service and the impact they have on the lives of people in communities across Connecticut, Western Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Proceeds from the event will help enable Concerned Citizens For Humanity (501C3) to support programs and scholarships for the advancement of young women of color, as well as the promotion of healthy living for women and to support organizations that need funding for cervical and breast cancer research.