Abby Warren and Sapna Jain Author Hartford Business Journal Article on the Readiness of Employers to Welcome Summer Interns

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Abby Warren and Sapna Jain co-authored the article, “Summer’s Approaching: Are you ready to welcome interns?” published in the Hartford Business Journal on May 1, 2023. In the article, Abby and Sapna address questions concerning the incoming summer class of interns and the readiness of employers to welcome them to their workforces. Employers should set clear expectations for their interns and create programs that are consistent with applicable law. Abby and Sapna conclude that no matter the differences between individual internships, it is exceedingly important for employers to have a well-managed internship program that supports the company’s particular initiative or goal. Read the full article.

Abby Warren and Sapna Jain Co-author Construction Executive Article on WARN Act Requirements and Conducting Layoffs with Respect

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Abby Warren and Sapna Jain co-authored the article, “WARNing for Companies—Complying With WARN Act Requirements During a Layoff,” published in Construction Executive’s “CE This Week” newsletter on February 21, 2023. The article points out that many large private for-profit and non-profit employers are subject to the federal WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) Act that generally covers employers with 100 or more employees. The law was enacted to protect employees by requiring companies to provide 60 days’ notice in advance of certain plant closings and mass layoffs. Abby and Sapna cover how to determine if the WARN Act applies to a company as well as the significant liability to companies that violate the Act.  The article also states that employers should  “be as transparent as possible and maintain respect throughout the layoff process” especially with regard to how employees learn about impending layoffs. Read the full article.

Abby Warren and Kayla West Discuss Timely Issue of Wage Transparency in Nation’s Restaurant News

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Abby Warren and Kayla West co-authored the article, “How pay equity and transparency laws could affect your business,” published in Nation’s Restaurant News on February 10, 2023. Pay equity and wage transparency continue to be the focus of lawmakers and an ongoing societal concern. Over a dozen state and local jurisdictions have passed laws regarding wage transparency in the last few years, in an effort to close wage gaps, based on gender and race, among other characteristics, that still exist in many industries. Pay transparency laws vary widely in their scope and purview and may contain requirements such as that employers disclose salary information to current or prospective employees in certain circumstances. include the relevant wage or salary range in all posted job positions, and/or provide employees and prospective employees with a wage or salary range for their particular position, either upon request or when an offer is made, among other requirements. These new laws not only impact employers in the restaurant industry from a legal compliance perspective, but also from a business and recruitment perspective. As a result of these laws, employers should remain cognizant of their legal obligations and understand the scope and coverage of such laws. Employers may wish to review and revise applicable hiring and employment documents, procedures and processes to ensure compliance with relevant laws. Read the full article.

Abby Warren and Kayla West Author Performance Management Article for Hartford Business Journal’s Economic Forecast Issue

Labor and Employment Group members Abby Warren and Kayla West co-authored the article “Here’s how to better manage your employees’ performance in 2023,” published in the Hartford Business Journal (HBJ) on January 9, 2023. Published as part of HBJ’s annual Economic Forecast issue, the article addresses the reasons employers should consider focusing on active performance management “(f)ollowing a global pandemic and resulting tight labor market, and with a potential recession on the horizon.” The authors highlight several components of successful, active performance management practices and the importance of such practices to retaining employees, making solid employment decisions, and defending against legal claims. Such strategies and tactics, both formal and informal, “can increase efficiency, create consistency in employee reward and discipline, mitigate employer liability in case of accusations of wrongdoing, and provide an important framework in the event that tough workplace decisions must be made, such as layoffs.” Read the article here.

Abby Warren Featured in EHS Today Q & A on Mitigating Workplace Violence

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby Warren was interviewed for the article, “How to Deal with Harassment in the Workplace,” published in EHS Today magazine on December 5, 2022. The Q&A feature covered numerous topics including processes companies can implement to evaluate harassment complaints, the steps involved in investigating complaints, and enshrining a company’s values statement in their policies. “’Things to consider are the law around the issues and the policy that the company has created for itself,” Warren said. “To help prevent aggressive behavior in the workplace, companies are making sure that supervisors are very visible. The more they are on the floor, for example in a manufacturing plant, the more they know the behaviors of employees, and if something seems off, they can identify it. To ensure a safe workplace for all, a company’s value statement should be instilled in specific policies,” Warren concluded. Read the full article here.

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

On July 28, 2022, Robinson+Cole recognized 19 lawyers and staff members for their pro bono work, mentoring, community service and efforts to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment as part of the firm's annual awards.

The Pro Bono Award is presented by the firm’s Pro Bono Committee and honors individuals for their outstanding commitment to Robinson+Cole’s pro bono initiative. This year’s honorees were Megan E. Baroni, Laurie A. Krepto, Ryan V. Leichsenring, Leticia C. Pimentel, Stephani A. Roman and Business Center Specialist Elsa E. Colon and Attorney Career Development Manager Kristopher I. Moore, who were honored for their ongoing dedication and support of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

Abby Warren and Kayla West Co-Author Construction Executive Article on Pre-Employment Screening Processes Amid the Great Resignation

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Abby Warren and Kayla West co-authored the article, “Review Pre-Employment Screening Processes Amid the Great Resignation,” published in Construction Executive’s “CE This Week” newsletter on May 13, 2022. The article points out that after nearly two years of managing through the COVID-19 pandemic, employers across a number of industries, including construction, are being impacted by another significant challenge: the “Great Resignation.” This term refers to the trend of workers voluntarily resigning from their jobs en masse that began in 2021 and continues today. Facing the pressures of recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and integrating job candidates to fill vacancies and meet a company’s operational needs, employers have been forced to rethink their recruiting and hiring processes, including pre-employment screening processes. In light of operational challenges, the shifting legal landscape and the pressure to hire quickly, employers reviewing their pre-employment screening process should weigh all applicable factors before making changes. For employers with multi-state workforces, they should ensure that their pre-employment screening processes are consistent with the applicable state laws. Read the full article.

Abby Warren Quoted in HBJ Article on Employer Return to Office Strategies

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was quoted in the article “In weeks ahead, many CT companies expected to implement long-term return-to-office strategies,” published in the Hartford Business Journal on March 28, 2022. The article focuses on challenges employers may face as employees return to working in centralized offices as a result of the warm weather and COVID-19 abating. “With COVID-19 waning and flu season ending, there is little reason left for companies to delay implementing more permanent work models, Warren said, whether that means requiring workers to be in the office full or part time, or not at all.” Abby emphasizes the importance for employers to have clear guidelines for work expectations and ongoing precautions. Especially, consistency among employees. Read the article.

Abby Warren, Jon Schaefer and Kayla West Co-Author ISHN Article on the Current Status of COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates

Labor, Employment, Benefits + Immigration Group (LEB+I) member, Abby Warren, co-authored the article, “Who’s calling the shots? A look at the current status of COVID-19 vaccine mandates,” published on February 16, 2022, in Industrial Safety & Hygiene News (ISHN) Magazine. Attorneys Jon Schaefer, a member of the Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group, and Kayla West, a member of the LEB+I Group, also contributed to the article.

The article points out that since the COVID-19 vaccination was made available to the public in late 2020, the topic of vaccination has been widely discussed across the country, in daily news media, by governments and agencies, in the courts, in communities, and in the workplace. This led to various legal challenges, court decisions and rulings, opposition, publicity, and the implementation of various state laws prohibiting or restricting businesses’ and employers’ ability to mandate vaccination. Heading into 2022, companies have been left to face the challenge of implementing policies that are both legally-compliant under the patchwork of laws, guidance and rules regarding vaccination as well as practical. The authors remind employers “to ensure that they are up-to-date at the local, state, and federal level; understand changes that may be on the horizon with regard to applicable laws in their industry; and remain flexible in terms of their policies and procedures.” Read the full article here.

Abby M. Warren Quoted in Hartford Business Journal On Withdrawal of Federal Vaccine Mandate

Abby M. Warren, a member of the firm’s Labor, Employment, Benefits + Immigration Group, was quoted in the Hartford Business Journal article, “Many CT businesses breathe ‘sigh of relief’ after federal vaccine mandate is withdrawn” published February 14, 2022. According to the article, employers are relieved following the U.S. Supreme Court’s striking down vaccine and testing rules that would have been applicable to employers with 100 or more employees, and the Biden Administration’s subsequent withdrawal of this mandate. Prior to these developments, employers were facing pressures in a tight labor market, which has seen a record number of employees resign. Moving forward, Abby said she’s counseling clients to continue identifying ways to keep workers safe, through masking, vaccination or testing guidelines. “Employees want to be safe and come to work and feel protocols are being followed,” she said. Abby also counsels clients to be flexible and monitor changes from the government. Read the full article here.

Labor and Employment Lawyers Write on Workplace Implications of Connecticut’s New Marijuana Law

Labor and Employment Group members, Natale DiNatale, Abby Warren and Kayla West, co-authored the article “Getting Into the Weeds of Connecticut’s New Marijuana Law and Its Impact on the Workplace,” published in the Winter 2021 edition of the Connecticut Construction Industries Association’s online magazine, Connstruction. The article summarizes some of the issues pertaining to “An Act Concerning Responsible and Equitable Regulation of Adult-Used Cannabis,” (RERACA) signed by CT Gov. Ned Lamont on June 22, 2021. It notes that starting July 1, 2021, Connecticut “join(ed) a growing number of states, and the District of Columbia, that permit the recreational use of marijuana.”  

The article also highlights a number of employment-related provisions “that impact employers and their relationship with employees and independent contractors,” and which will become effective on July 1, 2022. Among those provisions of RERACA summarized in the article are pre-employment drug testing, workplace prohibitions, medical marijuana, off-duty recreational use, and employer defenses. The authors encourage employers “to begin reviewing the new law and implementing and updating relevant policies, practices and procedures related to drug and alcohol use and testing.” Read the full article here.

Abby Warren Quoted in SHRM Article on Employee Religious Accommodation Requests Regarding COVID-19 Vaccination

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was quoted in the article “When May an Employer Reject a Religious Accommodation Request?” published under the “Employment Law” category of the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) online resources web page. The article focuses on employers evaluating employees’ religious accommodation requests as it pertains to mandating COVID-19 vaccination. While employers must evaluate accommodation requests that are made based on sincerely-held religious beliefs, employers aren’t obligated to provide accommodations that would result in an undue hardship. However, employers evaluating whether an undue hardship exists may want to still consider measures to mitigate risks to health and safety, including “’routine COVID-19 testing, mask wearing, social distancing and working remotely,’ noted Abby Warren, an attorney with Robinson & Cole in Hartford, Conn.” Read the full article.

Abby Warren Quoted in Hartford Business Journal Article on New Connecticut COVID-19 Rehire Law

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was quoted in the article “New seniority rehire law creates hurdles for companies looking to rebound from pandemic” published by the Hartford Business Journal on September 6, 2021. The article focuses on a new Connecticut law aimed at giving certain workers laid off because of COVID-19 “first crack at their old jobs when their former employers rehire.” The statute requires restaurants, food service companies and hotels with 15 or more workers to contact any employees they laid off because of COVID-19 when they rehire and offer them their former positions. It includes numerous provisions and empowers workers to sue if their former employers fail to comply – effectively setting aside at-will employment, which is standard throughout the United States. “If you told me a year ago that this would be a law in Connecticut, I would have been shocked,” Abby said. She went on to acknowledge that it may be a challenge for businesses not used to dealing with union contracts and expressed surprise that the statute allows workers to go straight to court, noting that employment laws are filed with an agency prior to a lawsuit being filed. Read the article.

Abby Warren Quoted in Hartford Business Journal Follow-up Article on Employer COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was quoted in the article “Here’s why one CT employer mandated vaccines. Will others follow?” published in the Hartford Business Journal (HBJ) on September 6, 2021. A follow-up to an earlier HBJ article on Connecticut employers mandating employee COVID-19 vaccinations published on June 14, 2021, the latest article notes that the previously unpopular vaccine requirements “seem to be one of the few tools left to employers to insulate themselves from an increasingly unpredictable pandemic.” Abby acknowledges that “[f]or the most part, courts and government agencies charged with arbitrating employment matters have largely sided with employers when it comes to mandates.” She also points out that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recent decision to officially approve the Pfizer vaccine definitely weakens “[t]he argument against employer mandates because the vaccines may be unsafe...” In addition, Abby comments on exemption policies and the related nuances that need to be worked out when formulating those policies because the courts have to balance legal protections with safety concerns. Read the article.

Abby Warren Discusses COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates on WNPR’s "All Things Considered"

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was a featured guest on WNPR's flagship afternoon news program, All Things Considered, for a segment titled “Labor Attorney Explains Employer Vaccine Mandates,” that aired on August 9, 2021. During the interview, Abby addresses some of the legal issues surrounding employer mandated COVID-19 vaccinations with host, John Henry Smith. Their discussion covers vaccination incentives, higher education institutions mandating vaccinations for faculty and staff, health privacy considerations for employers managing employee vaccination records, and more. Listen to the interview.

Alisha Sullivan, Abby Warren and Emily Zaklukiewicz Author Industry Week Article on Manufacturers Mandating COVID-19 Vaccines

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Alisha N. Sullivan, Abby M. Warren and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “What the EEOC Says about Requiring Vaccines at Work” published in Industry Week on July 21, 2021. Referencing the updated technical-assistance guidance issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in May, Alisha, Abby and Emily cover mandatory vaccination policies, reasonable accommodations, employee medical information, the potential for disparate impact of vaccination policies and vaccination incentive programs. Read the full article.

Abby Warren Discusses COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates on NBC CT’s “Face the Facts”

Labor and Employment Law Group lawyer Abby M. Warren discussed COVID-19 vaccine mandates during a guest segment on NBC CT’s political talk show, “Face the Facts,” on Sunday, July 11, 2021. Show host, Mike Hydeck, asked Abby about whether employers can legally require employees to get vaccinated, do employees face termination for refusing to be vaccinated, are there ramifications for employers who do not offer employees the opportunity to get vaccinated, and are there a number of legal challenges expected as a result of these mandates? View the segment, which begins at the 8:34 mark.

Abby Warren Quoted in Hartford Business Journal Article on Employer COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was quoted in the article “Vaccine mandates may be on the horizon” published in the Hartford Business Journal on June 14, 2021. The article focuses on anticipated litigation surrounding employee rights in the workplace and employers’ responsibility to provide a safe workplace as a result of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidance clarifying that employers can mandate their workers to get a COVID-19 vaccine with several important caveats. While many Connecticut businesses aren’t requiring employees to be vaccinated, Abby thinks that mandates may be on the horizon. “And when employers move to that system and it results in loss of employment for people who don’t get vaccinated, that — I think — is going to be the next big area [of legal disputes].” Abby also describes employer obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state law, which dictate that  employers must engage in interactive dialogue with employees with regard to the need for a reasonable accommodations for workers who cannot receive vaccinations due to medical conditions or religious reasons, and may require that accommodation be provided, depending on the circumstances.  Read the article.

Labor and Employment Group Lawyers Author ISHN Article on COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement in the Workplace

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Stephen W. Aronson, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Natale V. DiNatale, Abby M. Warren, Kayla N. West and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “The big-ticket question: Can (or should) employers require the COVID-19 vaccine of employees in the workplace?” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on May 12, 2021. With many employees deciding to forgo getting the COVID-19 vaccine, despite the fact that is now widely available for adults in most states, employers are grappling with whether to adopt a policy requiring the COVID-19 vaccine in an effort to provide a safe and healthy work environment. The article offers an overview of the many legal and practical risks associated with adopting a mandatory vaccine policy, which employers are encouraged to recognize and evaluate before its implementing. Read the full article.  

Abby Warren and Emily Zaklukiewicz Author ISHN Article on Drug Testing

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Abby M. Warren and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “What is the current state of drug testing programs in today’s workplaces?” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on May 6, 2021. The article examines how many employers are re-thinking their drug testing approach in light of legal changes and societal shifts related to drug use and, more specifically, marijuana use. Abby and Emily offer insight on the states that have legalized medical or recreational marijuana , laws prohibiting employers from making employment decisions based on lawful off-duty conduct and how many employers are re-thinking whether pre-employment drug testing is needed at all. Read the full article.

Labor and Employment Group Lawyers Author MBA Article on Managing COVID-19 Vaccinations in the Workplace

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Stephen W. Aronson, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Natale V. DiNatale, Abby M. Warren, Kayla N. West and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “Taking A Shot At Answering Employers’ COVID-19 Vaccination Questions: Best Practices For Managing The COVID-19 Vaccine In The Workplace” published in the Massachusetts Bar Association (MBA) March/April 2021 Section Review newsletter. Submitted on behalf of the MBA’s Health Law Section, which Natale serves as Vice Chair of, the article covers several legal and practical issues that employers may wish to consider regarding the implementation of a COVID-19 vaccination policy in the workplace, including the significance of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emergency use authorization, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) position on mandating the COVID-19 vaccine, managing employees who refuse to get the COVID-19 vaccine, privacy and confidentiality concerns and more. Read the full article.

Labor and Employment Members Author Industry Week Article on “The ABC’s of DEI”

Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Rachel V. Kushel, Abby M. Warren and Kayla N. West co-authored the article “The ABCs of DEI” published in Industry Week on March 12, 2021. The article offers best practices for cultivating a workplace that promotes a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) while also supporting manufacturers' overall business objectives. “Ideally, getting DEI right this year is a priority for employers, including those that may be federal contractors subject to affirmative action laws and regulations seeking to strengthen their commitments and strategies.” Britt-Marie, Rachel, Abby and Kayla go on to share questions for manufacturers to consider posing to evaluate where they currently stand on DEI and core components for a strong DEI program. Read the full article.

Evan Seeman and Abby Warren Selected as James W. Cooper Fellows of the Connecticut Bar Foundation

Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Evan J. Seeman and Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren have been elected by the Connecticut Bar Foundation as Fellows of the James W. Cooper Fellows Program. The program was established to honor the leading members of the legal profession and the judiciary in Connecticut, to promote a better understanding of the legal profession and the judicial system, and to explore ways to improve the profession and the administration of justice in Connecticut. Membership in the Fellows is by invitation only and is evidence of professional distinction. View the Class of 2021.

Abby Warren Quoted in Connecticut Law Tribune Article on Lawyers Guiding Employers Through Coronavirus-related Issues

Labor and Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was extensively quoted in the article “Maintaining the Legal Front Line as Businesses Start Getting Back to Work” published by the Connecticut Law Tribune on February 11, 2021. The article focuses on how lawyers are serving as a resource in guiding employers through a range of pandemic-related issues such as mask requirements, travel restrictions, school closures and the effect on employee attendance, managing sick leave, and telecommuting policies. Abby offers insight on her experience working with clients over the past 10 months and reinforces the importance of solid employer communication with employees. Read the article.  

Labor and Employment Members Author Law360 Article on Employer Best Practices for DEI

Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel, Abby Warren and Kayla West co-authored the article “Employer Best Practices For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” published in Law360 on February 11, 2021. The article addresses employers’ options in responding in 2021 to challenges in the workplace on highly-charged matters of social justice and civil rights. The piece outlines steps employers can take to foster a workplace that both respects and promotes a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) while also supporting the business’ overall objectives.

The authors write that “employees are poised to take employers to task because of their silence, or even to change employers based on their disagreement with their employer’s position on an issue.” They offer a series of reflective questions that can help move an organization forward on DEI issues, such as: Where are we now? What are our goals and how will we hold ourselves accountable? What internal and external resources will we need? and Does our current leadership have the skillset necessary to speak competently on DEI issues?

In addition to these considerations, the article also outlines key components and steps employers can take to engage and involve employees, crafting achievable strategies that can be implemented to build a strong, sustainable DEI program and position their business “ahead of the curve” in 2021. To read the full article, click here.

Labor and Employment Group Lawyers Author Construction Executive Article on COVID-19 Vaccine in the Workplace

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Stephen W. Aronson, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Natale V. DiNatale, Abby M. Warren, Kayla N. West and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “One Shot to Get It Right: Navigating the COVID-19 Vaccine in the Workplace” published in Construction Executive on January 6, 2020. The article covers several legal and practical issues that employers may wish to consider as they prepare for widespread distribution and availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in 2021. Read the full article.

Abby Warren Appointed to the Connecticut State Bar Examining Committee

Labor, Employment, Benefits + Immigration Group lawyer Abby M. Warren was appointed as a member of the State Bar Examining Committee by the Judges of the Superior Court on June 13, 2019. Her three-year term of service in this key position within Connecticut’s bar admission process commences on September 1, 2019 and reflects the highest standards of the profession.

The committee acts under the authority of the Judicial Branch to regulate the practice of law in Connecticut. In their announcement, the Judges cited Ms. Warren’s “exemplary record of conduct in conformance with the law and of respect for the legal system” as an essential consideration in her selection, and underscored the fundamental belief that the legal profession should be self-governing. 

Firm Attorneys Host AWI New England Local Circle Meeting in Boston

Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel, Natale DiNatale, and Abby Warren hosted the Association of Workplace Investigators’ (AWI) New England Local Circle meeting at Robinson+Cole’s Boston office on May 23, 2019. The meeting featured a lively roundtable discussion on the topics of Investigative Reports and Findings, and offered networking opportunities.

AWI is an international professional membership association for attorneys, human resource professionals, private investigators and others who conduct, manage, or have a professional interest in workplace investigations, with a membership of more than 1,000 professionals. The organization is dedicated to promoting and enhancing the quality of impartial workplace investigations, as well as offering training and education programs. Britt-Marie is a co-convener of the New England Local Circle and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for AWI.

CT Law Tribune Honors Four Firm Lawyers at 2019 CT Legal Awards Event

The Connecticut Law Tribune honored four Robinson+Cole lawyers at the publication’s 2019 Connecticut Legal Awards “Professional Excellence” event on May 16, 2019 at the Bond Ballroom in Hartford. The awards recognize both new and seasoned lawyers who have demonstrated knowledge, skill and compassion, making their mark in the legal field and earning the trust and respect of their clients and peers alike.  

Business Litigation Group lawyer Jim Wade received the Tribune’s Lifetime Achievement Award as a lawyer “who has left a lasting imprint on the legal community of Connecticut.” Bankruptcy and Reorganizations Group lawyer Patrick Birney was given the Distinguished Leader Award as one who “achieved impressive results in 2018 and demonstrated clear leadership skills that helped (him) achieve those results.” 

Ben Jensen, Business Litigation, and Abby Warren, Labor and Employment, were named New Leaders in the Law. This 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/or in performing pro bono work or community service in a volunteer capacity. Also in attendance were Robinson+Cole lawyers Bruce Barth, Frank Coulom, Eric Daniels, Ed Heath, Keisha Palmer, Jim Ray and Rhonda Tobin. To see a photo of R+C at the event, Click Here for our LinkedIn post and feel free to like/share with your LinkedIn connections.

Abby Warren and Alisha Sullivan Speak at CBA's Young Lawyers Section Event

Alisha Sullivan organized and moderated the CLE program “Hot Topics in Employment: Discrimination & Harassment,” presented by the Connecticut Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section. She is a member of the Section's Executive Committee. Abby Warren served as a panelist for the program, which examined the history of civil rights in the employment context, the evolution of law in Connecticut based on shifts in society’s general thought, and how sexual harassment and discrimination looks different in the #MeToo era. The panel also discussed counseling employers on dealing with implicit bias and micro-aggressions in the workplace; how Connecticut has been seen as a leader with respect to workplace protections for LGBTQ individuals; how employers are handling claims of discrimination relating to the medical use of marijuana; and different ways employers can limit the risks presented by the electronic communications of employees and supervisors.

Firm Attorneys Host Inaugural Meeting of AWI’s New England Local Circle

Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Abby Warren and Natale DiNatale hosted the Inaugural Meeting of the New England Local Circle Kick Off Meeting of Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) at the Boston office on March 21, 2019. Britt-Marie and Dinamary Horvath of Maxe Law will serve as co-conveners for the New England Local Circle, which will meet five times per year in the Boston office. Participants were offered an overview and history of AWI and the benefits of membership in the New England Local Circle, which include an online idea-sharing forum hosted in a private group on LinkedIn and referral and learning opportunities.

AWI is an international professional membership association for attorneys, human resource professionals, private investigators and others who conduct, manage, or have a professional interest in workplace investigations, and has a current membership of more than 1,000 professionals. Britt-Marie serves as a member of the Board of Directors for AWI and will be a faculty member at the upcoming AWI Training Institute for Workplace Investigators in Chicago. 
 

Robinson+Cole Supports Annual CBA-YLS Diversity Award Dinner

On February 7, 2019, J. Tyler Butts, Jason H. DePatie, Nicole S. Mulé, Je'Quana S. Orr, Ashley R. Paholski, Alisha N. Sullivan, and Abby M. Warren attended the 11th Annual Diversity Award Dinner hosted at Amarante's Sea Cliff in New Haven, Connecticut. Presented by the Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS), the event honored Asha Rangappa, a CNN Contributor, Senior Lecturer at Yale University, and former FBI agent. Tyler currently serves as the Diversity Director on the CBA-YLS Executive Committee. Robinson+Cole was a proud sponsor of the event. View a photo.

Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson and Abby Warren Co-Present Program on Effective Communications with Employees During Investigations

Labor + Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren co-presented the program "No Ghosting Allowed: Perfecting the Art of Effective Communications with Employees During Investigations," as part of the 2018 Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) Annual Conference held October 11-13, 2018 in Burlingame, California. The session explored the human resources and employee relations side of strong employee communications during an investigation as well as the legal issues and associated risks involved. Britt-Marie and Abby covered the types of communications that are typically made and how such communications can be tailored based on the workplace and the investigation, the balance that must be achieved between transparency and confidentiality during an investigation, how to handle employee questions and concerns, and techniques for handling leaks and communications crises in the workplace.

51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 51 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2018. In addition, 32 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. View the list of recognized attorneys and their areas of practice.

Earl Phillips, Jon Schaefer, and Abby Warren Author Scrap Magazine Article on Physical Ability Tests

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Earl W. Phillips Jr. and Jonathan H. Schaefer, and Labor + Employment Group lawyer Abby M. Warren authored the article “Use Caution When Testing Physical Abilities,” published in the September/October 2018 issue of Scrap, the bimonthly magazine of the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries. The article focuses on the use of physical ability tests (PATs) in the scrap industry which, are used to ensure that employees can perform the job’s essential functions. The piece goes on to cover two recent settlements with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission that demonstrate the potential exposure unlawful PATs can cause. Earl, Jon, and Abby encourage companies using PATs to consider other practical alternatives in order to avoid federal law violation. “If you decide PATs are necessary, regular re-evaluation and validation, including legal review by competent counsel, could reduce your risk of a discrimination claim or lawsuit.” Read the full article.

Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel, Kushel, and Abby Warren Conduct Hypothetical Workplace Harassment Investigation, Role-Playing the Major Aspects of a Workplace Investigation

Labor + Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Rachel V. Kushel, and Abby M. Warren presented the program “If I Could Turn Back Time...Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right” on February 28, 2018 in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. Presented by the Human Resource Association of Central Connecticut, the program was conducted as a hypothetical workplace harassment investigation. Ms. Cole-Johnson, Ms. Kushel, and Ms. Warren role-played the initial major phases of the workplace investigation process based on a hypothetical scenario with input from attendees on identifying and analyzing the issues presented. The program also covered responding to harassment allegations, including identifying key issues and creating a plan of action to investigate and resolve complaints.

Abby Warren Spoke at New Haven Chamber's Flu Prevention in the Workplace Event

The New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Health Care Council  and Human Resources Council hosted the presentation "Flu Prevention in the Workplace: Taking care of your employees, your customers and your bottom line" on September 30, 2016. Robinson+Cole lawyer Abby M. Warren, along with Andy Tarutis of the Mary Wade Home and  Deirdre Gruber and  Terry Cooper of the City of New Haven's Health Department, provided employers with valuable tips and suggestions to consider in preventing, planning, and responding to seasonal flu. Click here to register.

Ms. Warren, a labor and employment lawyer in the firm's Hartford office, is chair of the New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Human Resources Council.

New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Human Resource Council Hosts Teamwork Presentation

The New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Human Resource Council hosted a presentation on teamwork at its South Central Connecticut Regional office on September 9, 2016. "Team 'Work'" was a fast-paced and interactive session, focusing on the fundamentals of building a high-performing team. Tracy Knofla, who facilitated the event, is a sought-after speaker, author, and facilitator and the co-owner of High Impact Training. 

Labor and employment lawyer Abby M. Warren is chair of the New Haven Chamber of Commerce's Human Resources Council.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

A total of 39 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2022. In addition, 30 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Jeffrey J. White was named to the Top 50: 2022 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2022 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list and, similarly, Natalie D. Ramsey was included in the Top 50: 2022 Women Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

74 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America 2023

74 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2023. Of the 74 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 54 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law insurance law and construction litigation. Only the top 5.3 percent of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 29th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

Additionally, the following five lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2023 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Brian R. Smith in Land Use and Zoning Law, Christine E. Bromberg in Tax Law, James P. Ray in Litigation – Environmental, Joey Lee Miranda in Energy Regulatory Law, Norman H. Roos in Banking and Finance Law, Rachel V. Kushel in Employment Law – Management, Theodore J. Tucci in  Health Care Law and Virginia E. McGarrity – in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law.

The third edition of Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” was also released, includes 23 Robinson+Cole lawyers. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys early in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. The firm has the highest number of lawyers to receive this designation in Hartford, Connecticut. Read more in the press release.

65 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022

65 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022. Of the 65 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 49 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law.

Additionally, the following five lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Patrick M. Birney in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Michael F. Maglio in Banking and Finance Law, Robert S. Melvin in Environmental Law, Joey Lee Miranda in Energy Law and Jacqueline Pennino Scheib in Trademark Law. Peter V. Lacouture was also named a Best Lawyers® 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” in Providence, Rhode Island in the area of Energy Law.

The second edition of Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” was also released, of which 17 total Robinson+Cole lawyers are listed in. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of Steven J. Boyajian, J. Tyler Butts, Ryan V. Leichsenring, Krista L. Patterson, Jonathan H. Schaefer, Emilee Mooney Scott, Jonathan E. Small, Anthony J. Vogel and Abby M. Warren as partner as well as the promotion of Katherine M. Fix, and Kathryn M. Rattigan to counsel, effective January 1, 2021.

“All of these lawyers have been extraordinarily strong contributors to our firm and it is wonderful to be able to recognize their achievements and be a part of the continuing growth of their careers,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “Congratulations to this outstanding group of lawyers and future leaders on their well-deserved promotions.” Read more in the press release.

47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

A total of 47 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island for 2020. In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

Also, Bruce B. Barth was named to the Top 50: 2020 Connecticut Super Lawyers list and Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2020 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list.

The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. Read more in the press release.

61 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021

61 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021. Of the 61 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 46 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law and insurance law.

Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2021 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Michael R. Enright in Litigation – Bankruptcy, Gregory R. Faulkner in Litigation – Construction, Virginia E. McGarrity in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Joey Lee Miranda in Environmental Law, James P. Ray in Litigation – Environmental and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law. Michael S. Giaimo was also named a Best Lawyers® 2021 “Lawyer of the Year” in Boston, Massachusetts, in the area of Land Use and Zoning Law.

The inaugural edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch was also released, of which 17 total Robinson+Cole lawyers are listed in. The “Ones to Watch” recognition is given to attorneys who are earlier in their careers for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice in the United States. Read more in the press release.

52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 52 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2019. In addition, 32 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

The following lawyers were named to the Top 50: 2019 Connecticut Super Lawyers list: Denis C. Cavanaugh, Gregory R. Faulkner, Linda L. Morkan, Todd R. Regan, and Jeffrey J. White. Linda also appears on the Top 25: 2019 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list.

The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas. An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here. Read more in the press release.

Abby Warren Elected to Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame Board of Trustees

The Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame, an educational outreach organization whose mission is to honor publicly the achievement of Connecticut women, preserve their stories, educate the public, and inspire the continued achievements of women and girls, has elected Robinson+Cole lawyer Abby M. Warren to its Board of Trustees. Founded in 1994, the primary goal of the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame is to provide role models to women of all ages, encouraging them to recognize their potential, and live their dreams. The Hall stands as the state’s premier source for Connecticut women’s history with more than a hundred Inductees. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Employees Lend a Hand to Foodshare

On March 20, fourteen Robinson+Cole lawyers and staff members volunteered their time to help package food for local families at Foodshare's satellite facility at the Hartford Regional Market. Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Emily C. Deans coordinated the effort on behalf of the firm's Associates' Council. Volunteers included both lawyers and staff who, together, helped provide safe food to the community by inspecting and sorting donated produce. Founded in 1982, Foodshare is the regional food bank serving Connecticut's Hartford and Tolland counties, where 127,000 people struggle with hunger. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

A total of 56 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2017. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

See the list of included lawyers in the news release.