Bruce Barth

Bruce B. Barth

Partner

Bruce B. Barth

Partner

  • Overview

    Biography

    Bruce Barth focuses his practice on the representation of employers and fiduciaries with respect to retirement and welfare benefits, executive compensation, and benefits issues in corporate transactions. He is chair of the firm's Employee Benefits + Compensation Team.

    Employee Benefits

    Bruce advises clients on the implications of tax, securities, labor, and other laws, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). Drawing from over 30 years of employee benefits experience, Bruce partners with clients to develop benefit plan design and compliance strategies that meet both their business objectives and the legal requirements applicable to their employee benefits plans. He counsels clients with regard to the full spectrum of employee benefits matters, including qualified defined benefit and defined contribution plans, defined benefit plan funding and plan termination, deferred compensation, and other nonqualified plan programs and executive compensation arrangements, plan compliance and correction, health and welfare programs, participation in multiemployer plans, withdrawal liability, and mergers and acquisitions. Bruce frequently consults and negotiates with the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Labor, and Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation with regard to audits of plans, correction issues including voluntary correction and correction on audit, plan termination issues, and requests for advisory rulings and opinions.

    Government Benefits

    A substantial portion of Bruce’s practice is dedicated to assisting governmental employers. As a result, he has an in-depth understanding of the unique challenges involved in the design, administration, and operation of governmental retirement plans. He helps governmental clients ensure their benefit plans meet obligations to their citizens and employees and comply with all legal requirements applicable to governmental plans. He has assisted numerous governmental entities with a variety of pension plan compliance issues, including qualification issues under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (Code), the applicability of various Code limitations to governmental plans, Section 414(h) “pick up” issues, constructive receipt concerns, and compliance with Section 415 of the Code. Bruce has significant experience assisting governmental employers with the creation, design, and administration of 457(b) plans, including fiduciary duties related to such plans. He also represents a number of municipalities and related entities with respect to Length of Service Award Programs (LOSAP), and their creation, design, and administration.

    Tax- Exempt Employers

    Bruce also represents numerous tax-exempt entities in connection with their employee benefit plans. His clients include tax-exempt hospitals, health care organizations, private foundations, and other non-profit organizations. He routinely assists tax-exempt clients with the design, drafting, and implementation of defined contribution plans, including 403(b) plans, defined benefit plans, Section 457(b) and 457(f) programs, as well as other executive benefit programs and issues. He assists clients with the application of the new excise tax rules associated with executive compensation under Section 4960 as well as the intermediate sanctions rules. Bruce represents clients before the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Labor, and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation in connection with audits, qualification submissions, plan corrections, and other matters of these programs.

    Health and Welfare Benefit Plans

    Bruce counsels clients on a wide range of health and welfare benefits matters, including issues related to the Affordable Care Act, self-funded health arrangements, wellness and disease management programs, HIPAA privacy and security rules, COBRA administration, and various state laws and regulations governing health and welfare plan design and administration.

    Executive Compensation and Equity Arrangements

    Bruce has significant experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining executive and outside-director compensation and incentive programs, including equity-based plans. He regularly provides counsel on the tax consequences of such programs, as well as assisting in structuring those arrangements to comply with ERISA, Section 409A, and Section 457(f) (for tax-exempt organizations) in addition to Section 162(m), 280G and 4960 issues. In addition to designing executive compensation programs, he assists compensation committees of public companies on compliance with Securities and Exchange Commission disclosure and reporting requirements.

    Fiduciary Advice

    Bruce routinely counsels boards of directors, trustees, investment committees, plan administrators, and plan fiduciaries regarding their duties and responsibilities under federal law. He counsels plan sponsors on all aspects of ERISA fiduciary compliance, including plan governance, plan administration issues, and the selection and monitoring of plan investment options. He also has assisted plan sponsors and fiduciaries with RFPs in connection with the retention of plan advisors including third party administrators, actuaries, and investment advisors.

    He is often asked to speak and publish about employee benefit plan issues, executive compensation matters, fiduciary duty obligations and health care reform.

    Bruce has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America© in the area of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law since 1995. He has also been named to the Connecticut Super Lawyers® list from 2006 to 2022. Bruce was selected to the Top 50 Connecticut Super Lawyers list in 2020.

  • Experience
    • Experience

      Experience

      • Provided benefits counsel for a tax-exempt hospital that sold all of the operating assets of one of its significant divisions to a publicly traded corporation.
      • Designed and created a deferred compensation program for the members of a Native American tribe.
      • Represented a multinational corporation with respect to the design, drafting, and funding implementation of deferred compensation programs for its executives.
      • Represented health care organization with respect to the implementation of a defined benefit plan for its employees and the conversion of such plan to a cash balance plan.
      • Represented a multinational employer with respect to all of the employee benefits it offers to its employees.
      • Represented an executive of a telecommunications company with respect to his employment agreement, nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options, and other compensation arrangements.
      • Represented an executive with respect to the negotiation and drafting of his employment agreement, stock awards, and option agreements.
      • Challenged the IRS in its assertion that our client, an employer of over 10,000 employees, was ineligible to sponsor a 401(k) plan for its employees.
      • Represented privately-held technology company with respect to the design, implementation, and administration of its stock, stock option, and stock equivalent programs.
      • Provided advice to a unionized corporation that participated in a multiemployer plan on a mechanism to reduce or avoid withdrawal liability while it was reducing its workforce.
      • Representation of company in connection with sale of a subsidiary which had employees covered by seven different multiemployer plans.
      • Representation of a quasi-state agency as bond counsel and special projects counsel.

      • Representation of an aerospace and defense manufacturer in acquisition through reverse triangular merger of a company in the laboratory services industry.

      • Representation of Symphony Marketing Solutions, Inc., a company providing analytics and data management services in the retail, pharmaceutical, and consumer packaged goods industries, concerning acquisition by Genpact International, Inc., a business processes management company.

      • Representation of an aerospace and defense company concerning acquisition of substantially all the assets of the defense and aerospace business of Special Devices Inc. Client provides diversified systems for missiles, space launch vehicles, the soldier, and ground vehicles. Client is prime contractor to U.S. and foreign military customers and subcontractor to many U.S. prime contractors. Special Devices’ Defense & Aerospace Group provide many critical components complementary to client's core product lines.

      • Representation of an aerospace and defense company concerning its acquisition of NEA Electronics, Inc., in a stock purchase transaction. NEA designs, develops, and manufactures highly reliable nonexplosive separation mechanisms, battery cell bypass switches, electrical interconnect devices, and nonpyrotechnic valves for critical space and defense applications.

      • Advised plan sponsor regarding consolidation of sponsor's multiple welfare benefit plans and cafeteria plan into a single "wrap plan" and drafted document for new plan.
      • Performed HIPAA analysis for plan sponsor's group health plans, including drafting of policies and procedures and negotiation of business associate agreements.
      • Assisted large Connecticut-based hospital with complex RFP process involving a search for a retirement plan service provider and negotiation of a favorable administrative agreement.
      • Counseled a large hospital in employee benefits matters regarding its acquisition of another hospital in an integrated transaction.
      • Served as outside employee benefits counsel to a tax-exempt community hospital, providing advice on its employee benefit plans, including its health and welfare arrangements and retirement programs.
      • Assisted a health care organization in reviewing its defined contribution plans for compliance with statutory requirements, developed correction strategies, and obtained approval of corrections through governmental correction programs.
      • Assisted large hospital and health care system with respect to the design, drafting, and implementation of defined contribution plans, including the addition of a 403(b) plan.
      • Served as outside employee benefits counsel to a large health care organization and assisted with executive compensation matters, including the design, drafting, and implementation of nonqualified deferred compensation programs for its executives.
      • Representation of a foundation supporting a public university regarding all legal issues related to its defined contribution and health and welfare plans.
      • Representation of a private college in Connecticut regarding compliance issues for its defined contribution plan.

        • Transactional and Development

      • Representation of a construction materials company concerning the sale of its asphalt paving and construction contracting business in Michigan and Indiana; representation of aggregate company in addressing environmental conditions and transactions in New York and Louisiana.

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    • Professional Associations

      Professional Associations

      Worldwide Employee Benefits Network, Hartford Chapter
      Past National Board Member, Chapter President

      Connecticut Public Pension Forum
      Board Member, currently serving as Secretary (1999 - present)

      American Bar Association
      Section of Taxation, Employee Benefits Committee (1984 - present)
      Section of Taxation, Co-chair of Subcommittee on Exempt Organization and Governmental Plans

      Employee Stock Ownership Plan Association (1998 - present)

      National Association of Public Pension Attorneys (2007 - present)
    • Honors + Awards

      Honors + Awards

      Recognized by the National Law Review as a 2021 Go-To Thought Leader

      Selected to the Top 50 Connecticut Super Lawyers list in 2020 and 2021.

      Selected to the Connecticut Super Lawyers list from 2006 to 2023.

      AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated in Martindale-Hubbell™ in the areas of Employee Benefits, Labor and Employment, and Taxation Law (Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings is a trademark. AV Preeminent is a certification mark of Reed Elsevier Properties, Inc.)

      Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© as Hartford Lawyer of the Year in the area of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law for 2016 and 2013

      Selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the area of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law since 1995

      Ranked in Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business in the State of Connecticut in the area of Labor & Employment from 2014 to 2021

    • Community Involvement

      Community Involvement

      Hartford Symphony Orchestra
      Board of Directors (2013 - present)
      Chair, Finance Committee

      Montessori School of Greater Hartford
      Past Advisory Committee Member
  • NEWS + PRESS
    • Publications

      Publications

      "401(k) Plans in Challenging Economic Times: Reducing or Eliminating Employer Contributions Midyear," published in The Journal of Retirement Planning, co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Cynthia R. Christie (May/June 2009)

      "Enron: What Will Happen to 401(k) Plans Now?" co-authored with Cynthia Christie (Winter 2002)

      "Know your obligations under COBRA: First employee notification due at time group coverage begins," published in CBIA News, co-authored with Kerri Willis (6/2002)

      CBIA's Complete COBRA Guide

    • Presentations

      Presentations

      "COVID-19 Vaccine Updates and Legal Issues to Consider," co-presented with Conor O. Duffy and Abby M. Warren, an R+C-hosted webinar (2/19/2021)
      • » more info

        • COVID-19 Vaccine Updates and Legal Issues to Consider

        "COVID-19 Vaccine Updates and Legal Issues to Consider," co-presented by Conor O. Duffy, Abby M. Warren and Bruce B. Barth, an R+C-hosted webinar (2/19/2021)

        Members of Robinson+Cole's Coronavirus Response Team, from both the firm's Labor and Employment and Health Law Groups, discussed COVID-19 vaccine-related health care topics, including an overview of vaccine development, distribution and administration, and Emergency Use Authorization. They also addressed employment issues such as employer mandates, employee leave, privacy and confidentiality issues, COVID-19 testing programs, OSHA implications, and more.


      "Legislative Changes Impacting the Defined Benefit World," presented during the Fall 2018 meeting of the Actuaries' Club of Hartford & Springfield at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut (11/8/2018)
      • » more info

        • Legislative Changes Impacting the Defined Benefit World

        "Legislative Changes Impacting the Defined Benefit World," presented by Bruce B. Barth, presented during the Fall 2018 meeting of the Actuaries' Club of Hartford & Springfield at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut (11/8/2018)

        The session provided an overview of updates with regard to the latest employee benefits legislation and case law affecting defined benefit plans, including current developments from the Internal Revenue Service, Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, and tax reform. Bruce also shared an update with respect to what trends have been prevalent in 2018 in the defined benefit realm, and what can be expected moving forward.


      "Municipal Defined Contribution Plans," panelist at the Fiduciary Investment Advisors (FIA) 2018 Annual Conference (9/21/2018)

      "2018 WEB Annual Legislative and Regulatory Update," for the Worldwide Employee Benefits Network (WEB), Hartford Chapter (2/27/2018)

      "DOL Fiduciary Rule: Risks and Opportunities for Advisors," at the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants’ (CTCPA) Personal Financial Planning Conference (12/7/2017)

      "An Education Forum for Pension Professionals," at a National Institute of Pension Administrators (NIPA) event in Hartford, Connecticut (9/20/2017)
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        • An Education Forum for Pension Professionals

        "An Education Forum for Pension Professionals," presented by Bruce B. Barth, at a National Institute of Pension Administrators (NIPA) event in Hartford, Connecticut (9/20/2017)

        Geared toward pension professionals, the forum addressed the state of the new Department of Labor Fiduciary Rule, how cybersecurity is becoming one of the biggest threats to pension plans, and regulatory and compliance issues. The audience included accountants, lawyers, third-party administrators, retirement consultants, actuaries, and trust administrators, among others. 


      "Keeping Your Defined Contribution Plan Afloat in a Sea of Litigation," panel member at the Fiduciary Investment Advisors (FIA) 2017 Client Conference in Newport, Rhode Island (6/23/2017)
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        • Keeping Your Defined Contribution Plan Afloat in a Sea of Litigation

        "Keeping Your Defined Contribution Plan Afloat in a Sea of Litigation," presented by Bruce B. Barth, panel member at the Fiduciary Investment Advisors (FIA) 2017 Client Conference in Newport, Rhode Island (6/23/2017)

        The panel focused on the impact and implications of the Department of Labor's new fiduciary rule, general fiduciary duties of plan sponsors and administrative committees, and current pending litigation involving 401(k) and 403(b) plans.


      "2017 WEB Regulatory and Legislative Benefit Update," at the WEB Network (Worldwide Employee Benefits) in Hartford (4/27/2017)

      "403(b) plans under attack: Fiduciary breach class actions brought against multiple plans," co-presented with Virginia E. McGarrity, at the AICUM Spring Symposium 2017 in Worcester, Massachusetts (3/23/2017)
      • » more info

        • 403(b) plans under attack: Fiduciary breach class actions brought against multiple plans

        "403(b) plans under attack: Fiduciary breach class actions brought against multiple plans," co-presented by Bruce B. Barth and Virginia E. McGarrity, at the AICUM Spring Symposium 2017 in Worcester, Massachusetts (3/23/2017)

        Mr. Barth and Ms. McGarrity discussed a spate of class action lawsuits brought on behalf of plan participants against a dozen well-respected universities who sponsor large 403(b) and 401(k) plans. 


      "Everybody Makes Mistakes: Retirement Plan Correction Options under EPCRS," co-presented with Cynthia R. Christie, presented at Employee Benefit Plans Conference, sponsored by the Connecticut Society of CPAs (CTCPA) in Rocky Hill, Connecticut (5/20/2014)

      "Perspective on the Affordable Care Act," co-presented with Virginia E. McGarrity and Thomas McGuire, senior deputy general counsel at UnitedHealthcare, at the Connecticut Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel's (CONNACCA) In-House Paralegal Conference (3/27/2014)

      "Affordable Care Act: Developing Your Health Care Reform Strategy," published in ConnectiCare Inc.’s Annual Breakfast Meeting for Employers, co-presented with Virginia E. McGarrity (6/12/2013)

      "Affordable Care Act: Developing Your Health Care Reform Strategy," published in ConnectiCare Inc.’s Annual Breakfast Meeting for Insurance Brokers, co-presented with Virginia E. McGarrity (6/5/2013)

      "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: Employer-Shared Responsibility," at Connecticut Health Council (3/22/2013)

      "Annual Legislative & Regulatory Update," at Worldwide Employee Benefits Network, Hartford Chapter (1/17/13)

      "PPACA: Developing Your Health Care Reform Strategy," Connecticut Business & Industry Association webinar (8/29/2012)

      "Defining Your Health Care Priorities: Plan Auditing," at Society for Human Resource Management Tri-State Conference, Panelist (3/26/2012)

      "Employee Benefits: The Game Changers," at Society for Human Resource Management Tri-State Conference, Panelist (3/25/2012)

      "Annual Legislative & Regulatory Update," at Worldwide Employee Benefits Network, Hartford Chapter (1/19/12)

      "Success as a Summer Associate in a Big Law Firm," published in Lawyers Collaborative for Diversity, co-presented with Virginia E. McGarrity (4/28/2011)

      "Health Care Reform: A Practical Look from the HR Perspective," at Human Resource Association of Central Connecticut (4/26/2011)

      "Annual Legislative & Regulatory Update," at Worldwide Employee Benefits Network (12/9/2010)

      "Health Care Reform: What HR Needs to Know," at Society for Human Resource Management, Panelist (11/3/2010)

      "Health Care Reform: Preparing Employers and Health Plans for 2011 and Beyond," co-presented with Virginia E. McGarrity and Melanie J. Hancock, webinar (10/12/2010)

      Moderated webinar “Health Care Reform: Preparing Employers and Health Plans for 2011 and Beyond” co-presented by Melanie J. Hancock and Virginia McGarrity (10/12/2010)

      "Trustee Fiduciary & Legal Responsibilities," panelist, at the first annual Statewide Public Pension Organization Network (SPPON) Trustee Symposium in Boston, Massachusetts (October 2008)

      "The Future of Health Care," at Connecticut Business & Industry Association Symposium (Summer 2006)

      "Civil Unions in Connecticut and the Impact on Governmental Employers," at Connecticut Public Pension Forum (10/26/2005)

      "Counseling the Small Business Client in Connecticut: Employee Benefits," (11/2003)

      "Risk: Do You Know How Much You Are Taking," (6/2003 and 10/2003)
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        • Risk: Do You Know How Much You Are Taking

        "Risk: Do You Know How Much You Are Taking," presented by Bruce B. Barth (6/2003 and 10/2003)
        General employee benefits and fiduciary issues.

      "Nuts and Bolts of 401(k) Plans," co-presented with Cynthia Christie and Lorman Education Services (9/2002)

      Panelist at Defined Contribution Roundtable at the Fiduciary Investment Advisors Annual Client Conference (6/15/2011)

    • News

      R+C in the News

      • December 31, 2021

        National Law Review Spotlights EB+C Practice Group for 2021 "Go-To Thought Leadership Award"

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          National Law Review Spotlights EB+C Practice Group for 2021 "Go-To Thought Leadership Award"

          The National Law Review (NLR) has selected Robinson+Cole’s Employee Benefits + Compensation practice group for a “Go-To Thought Leadership Award” for its COBRA Subsidy News coverage in the category of Employment Law as it relates to the tax implications and steps employers need to take concerning COBRA subsidies required by the American Rescue Plan Act. The EB+C practice group writers, consisting of Bruce Barth, Virginia McGarrity, Alisha Sullivan and Jean Tomasco, have published a number of articles on when COBRA subsidies expire, the management of responsibilities with third-party administrators, and related COVID-19 guidance, which have provided key insights for employers and employees alike.

          The NLR’s “Go-To Thought Leadership Awards” recognized 87 exceptional legal authors drawn from more than 30 legal practice areas who were selected from a pool of the authors of more than 14,000 legal news articles published by the NLR in 2021. Award recipients, representing less than one percent of those who publish with the NLR, were acclaimed for having “contributed timely and well-thought-out legal news that were well read, regularly quoted or cited by other media.” Read the NLR press release. Congratulations to our outstanding team!

      • December 13, 2018

        Bruce Barth Presents During Fall Meeting of Actuaries' Club of Hartford & Springfield

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          Bruce Barth Presents During Fall Meeting of Actuaries' Club of Hartford & Springfield

          Benefits lawyer Bruce B. Barth presented a program on “Legislative Changes Impacting the Defined Benefit World” during the Fall 2018 meeting of the Actuaries' Club of Hartford & Springfield at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut on November 8, 2018. The session provided an overview of updates with regard to the latest employee benefits legislation and case law affecting defined benefit plans, including current developments from the Internal Revenue Service, Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, and tax reform. Bruce also shared an update with respect to what trends have been prevalent in 2018 in the defined benefit realm, and what can be expected moving forward.

      • October 25, 2018

        Bruce Barth Presents on Municipal Defined Contribution Plans During FIA Annual Conference

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          Bruce Barth Presents on Municipal Defined Contribution Plans During FIA Annual Conference

          Benefits lawyer Bruce B. Barth was among the speakers that presented a breakout session on “Municipal Defined Contribution Plans” during the Fiduciary Investment Advisors (FIA) 2018 Annual Conference held from September 20-21, 2018 at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut. FIA is an independent, employee-owned investment consulting firm that works with fiduciary clients including retirement plan sponsors, institutional investment pools, non-profit organizations and private clients.

      • October 18, 2018

        51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          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.

        • View article
      • August 20, 2018

        52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2019

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          52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2019

          52 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2019 (Copyright 2018 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC).

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers.

        • View article
      • May 8, 2018

        Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

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          Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in all six practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut in its 2018 edition and has individually recognized 18 of the firm’s lawyers.  
          Robinson+Cole earned rankings in the following Connecticut practice areas: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate. See the individual market press releases for the list of Robinson+Cole lawyers included in Chambers USA 2018.

        • View article
      • December 12, 2017

        Bruce Barth Presents DOL Fiduciary Rule Program at Personal Financial Planning Conference

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          Bruce Barth Presents DOL Fiduciary Rule Program at Personal Financial Planning Conference

          Employee Benefits + Compensation Group lawyer Bruce B. Barth presented a session on the "DOL Fiduciary Rule: Risks and Opportunities for Advisors" on December 7, 2017 at the CTCPA Education Center in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. The program was part of the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants’ (CTCPA) Personal Financial Planning Conference and covered the practical impacts of the DOL Fiduciary Rule as it relates to client advice and implementation of portfolios. Mr. Barth offered insight on how advisers can comply with the DOL Fiduciary Rule, the risks of non-compliance, and the potential for growing your advice practice if implemented successfully.

      • October 2, 2017

        Bruce Barth Presents to Pension Professionals at NIPA Forum

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          Bruce Barth Presents to Pension Professionals at NIPA Forum

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Group lawyer Bruce B. Barth spoke at a National Institute of Pension Administrators (NIPA) event, "An Education Forum for Pension Professionals," in Hartford, Connecticut, on September 20, 2017. Geared toward pension professionals, the forum addressed the state of the new Department of Labor Fiduciary Rule, how cybersecurity is becoming one of the biggest threats to pension plans, and regulatory and compliance issues. The audience included accountants, lawyers, third-party administrators, retirement consultants, actuaries, and trust administrators, among others. 

      • June 28, 2017

        Bruce Barth Speaks at FIA Annual Client Conference

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          Bruce Barth Speaks at FIA Annual Client Conference

          Employee Benefits and Compensation lawyer Bruce B. Barth presented at the Fiduciary Investment Advisors (FIA) 2017 Client Conference in Newport, Rhode Island, on June 23. He was a member of a panel on "Keeping Your Defined Contribution Plan Afloat in a Sea of Litigation," which focused on the impact and implications of the Department of Labor's new fiduciary rule, general fiduciary duties of plan sponsors and administrative committees, and current pending litigation involving 401(k) and 403(b) plans.

      • May 17, 2017

        Bruce Barth Speaks on Regulatory and Legislative Benefits

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          Bruce Barth Speaks on Regulatory and Legislative Benefits

          Employee Benefits and Compensation lawyer Bruce B. Barth spoke recently about how 2017 will be a year of fluctuation and change in the world of employee benefits. Barth covered the topic at the WEB Network (Worldwide Employee Benefits) in Hartford on April 27, 2017. Barth discussed how the new administration’s focus on the repeal and replacement of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as well as tax reform, will impact employee benefits. Barth covered new Internal Revenue Service procedures, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission rules regarding wellness plan incentives, and the Department of Labor’s new ERISA disability claim regulations. Barth’s presentation also tackled the impact and the effect of recent U.S. Supreme Court cases related to employee benefit matters.

      • April 3, 2017

        Employee Benefits Lawyers Speak at AICUM Spring Symposium 2017

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          Employee Benefits Lawyers Speak at AICUM Spring Symposium 2017

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Group lawyers Bruce B. Barth and  Virginia E. McGarrity presented at the AICUM Spring Symposium 2017 in Worcester, Massachusetts, on March 23, 2017. In their session, "403(b) plans under attack: Fiduciary breach class actions brought against multiple plans," Mr. Barth and Ms. McGarrity discussed a spate of class action lawsuits brought on behalf of plan participants against a dozen well-respected universities who sponsor large 403(b) and 401(k) plans. AICUM is the leading voice on public policy issues that affect independent higher education in Massachusetts. 

      • October 3, 2016

        Bruce Barth Speaks at ABA Fall CLE Meeting

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          Bruce Barth Speaks at ABA Fall CLE Meeting

          Employee benefits lawyer Bruce B. Barth was among the panelists who discussed the proposed regulations issued under section 457(f) during the “Employee Benefits Exempt Organization and Governmental Plans Update” program on September 30, 2016, as part of the 2016 Joint Fall CLE Meeting, hosted by the ABA Section of Taxation and the Trust and Estate Law Division of the ABA Section of Real Property, Trust and Estate Law. Mr. Barth is a chair of the Subcommittee on Exempt Organization and Governmental Plans, which presented the program. The program also included other recent guidance and decisions relating to tax-exempt, church, and governmental plans.

      • June 9, 2014

        Hartford Lawyers Present at CTCPA Conference

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          Hartford Lawyers Present at CTCPA Conference

          At the Employee Benefit Plans Conference, sponsored by the Connecticut Society of CPAs (CTCPA), employee benefits and compensation lawyers Bruce B. Barth and Cynthia R. Christie presented the session "Everybody Makes Mistakes: Retirement Plan Correction Options under EPCRS" in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, on May 20, 2014. The program covered common errors made in drafting, administrating, and operating retirement plans—and how to fix those errors. Mr. Barth and Ms. Christie described a framework for correcting plan errors using the Internal Revenue Service's Employee Plans Compliance Resolution System (EPCRS).

          In addition, Mr. Barth participated in the "Ask the Experts Panel," along with three other experts in the field. Each panel member addressed frequently encountered issues in the marketplace, followed by a Q&A session with the audience.

      • June 2, 2014

        Bruce Barth Appointed Co-Chair of ABA Subcommittee

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          Bruce Barth Appointed Co-Chair of ABA Subcommittee

          Employee benefits lawyer Bruce B. Barth was recently selected as co-chair of the Subcommittee on Exempt Organization and Governmental Plans, part of the American Bar Association's (ABA) Section of Taxation. The appointment is effective July 1, 2014. Mr. Barth is head of Robinson+Cole's Labor, Employment, Benefits + Immigration Group and chair of the Tax Group. He focuses his practice on representing employers with respect to retirement and welfare benefits, executive compensation, and benefits issues in corporate transactions.

      • May 6, 2014

        Hartford Lawyers Speak at CONNACCA Conference

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          Hartford Lawyers Speak at CONNACCA Conference

          Employee benefits lawyers Bruce B. Barth and Virginia E. McGarrity spoke to the Connecticut Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel's (CONNACCA) In-House Paralegal Conference on March 27, 2014. Mr. Barth and Ms. McGarrity, along with Thomas McGuire, senior deputy general counsel at UnitedHealthcare, presented the session "Perspective on the Affordable Care Act."

          Representing northern Connecticut, CONNACCA has more than 120 members from the local companies of United Technologies Corporation and the Henkel Corporation. The organization holds CLE programs throughout the year, with topics ranging from navigating employment law to commercial insurance and business method patents.

           

      • December 6, 2013

        Hartford Lawyers Hold Workshop on Affordable Care Act

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          Hartford Lawyers Hold Workshop on Affordable Care Act

          Employee benefits and compensation lawyers Bruce B. Barth and Dawn N. Zammitti presented at the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Workshop Series in Cromwell, Connecticut, on November 18, 2013. The event was sponsored by ConnectiCare and the Connecticut Health Council. Mr. Barth and Ms. Zammitti, along with Jeffrey Pichnarcik of Lockton Companies, spoke on how the ACA, from the perspective of lawyers, brokers, and employers, will affect renewals and the overall marketplace.

          The Connecticut Health Council consists of health sector leaders who work together to advance Connecticut as a leading place for developing businesses, initiatives, and technology to improve health care both nationally and in the state.
      • June 24, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Lawyers Answer Health Care Reform Questions

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          Robinson & Cole Lawyers Answer Health Care Reform Questions

          Robinson & Cole benefits lawyers Bruce B. Barth and Virginia McGarrity presented an overview of the upcoming requirements under health care reform and then addressed questions and concerns from brokers and employers in two sessions hosted by ConnectiCare. Michael Wise, president of ConnectiCare, Inc. & Affiliates, who attended said “their presentations were as clear and as accurate as anyone can get talking about something as complicated and ever-changing as [health care reform].” Approximately 360 brokers in the individual, small business, and large business insurance markets attended the first session on June 5 and over 85 human resources and benefits professionals from employers across Connecticut attended the second session on June 12.
      • June 18, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Lawyers Support The Stowe Center

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          Robinson & Cole Lawyers Support The Stowe Center

          Robinson+Cole sponsored the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center's Big Tent Jubilee on May 30, 2013, at which Michelle Alexander, author of The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, was awarded the 2013 Stowe Prize for Writing to Advance Social Justice. Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Hartford Arts Council Cathy Malloy, and Hartford Mayor Pedro E. Segarra attended the event that raised funds for the Stowe Center's education programs. Robinson+Cole lawyers Bruce B. Barth, John B. Lynch, Jr., and Virginia McGarrity, a member of the Stowe Center's Board of Trustees, also attended.
      • May 9, 2013

        Bruce Barth Speaks on Issues of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

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          Bruce Barth Speaks on Issues of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

          Robinson & Cole lawyer Bruce B. Barth, chair of the Employee Benefits Group, gave a presentation on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) in conjunction with the Connecticut Health Council on March 22, 2013. Mr. Barth addressed recently issued guidance with respect to the employer-shared responsibility provision under PPACA and focused on what employers need to understand to be prepared to determine their strategies and compliance tasks during the run-up to the 2014 effective date.
      • January 24, 2013

        Bruce Barth Presents Annual Benefits Legislative Update to WEB

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          Bruce Barth Presents Annual Benefits Legislative Update to WEB

          Bruce B. Barth, chair of the Employee Benefits and Compensation Practice Group, presented an update on the best administrative practices for employers in light of recent changes impacting health and retirement plans at the Annual Legislative Update of the Worldwide Employee Benefits Network Hartford Chapter (WEB) on January 17, 2013. Mr. Barth discussed several noteworthy legislative, regulatory, and judicial actions issued in recent months that employers should be aware of in preparing for 2013 and beyond, including health care reform, recent litigation trends, fee disclosure, wellness program guidance, and enforcement priorities for the IRS, DOL, and state agencies.
      • September 13, 2012

        Bruce Barth Delivers Webinar on Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

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          Bruce Barth Delivers Webinar on Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

          Bruce B. Barth, partner and chair of the Employee Benefits and Compensation Practice Group, presented the webinar “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: Developing Your Healthcare Reform Strategy” on August 29, 2012. The webinar, which was viewed by more than 200 business owners, human resource managers and employee benefits professionals, examined what administrative requirements employers and their group health plans will have to address in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling.

          Mr. Barth presented the webinar with Eric George, president of the Eric George Group, and Tom Guerra of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association serving as moderator. Robinson & Cole was a sponsor.
      • May 21, 2012

        Employee Benefits and Compensation Partner on Two Panels at Society for Human Resource Management Conference

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          Employee Benefits and Compensation Partner on Two Panels at Society for Human Resource Management Conference

          Employee benefits and compensation partner Bruce B. Barth participated in two panel discussions at the 2012 Society for Human Resource Management Tri-State Conference in Springfield, Massachusetts, April 25 to 27. Mr. Barth was a panelist for the discussion “Employee Benefits: The Game Changers” about new federal and state regulations on such issues as health care reform and same sex marriage. He also was a panelist for the discussion “Defining Your Health Care Priorities: Plan Auditing” about metrics and tools for planning and evaluating benefit plans.
      • April 18, 2012

        Employee Benefits Partner Offers Career Advice to University of Connecticut Students

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          Employee Benefits Partner Offers Career Advice to University of Connecticut Students

          Bruce B. Barth, chair of the Tax and Tax Exempt Practice Group, served on a panel discussion about career paths at the University of Connecticut Storrs campus on April 2, 2012.

          The University of Connecticut honors program coordinated the discussion by asking alumni who studied business or political science to speak to students about careers in business or law. Mr. Barth was member of the honors program when he earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Connecticut.
      • February 1, 2012

        Bruce Barth Presents Annual Benefits Legislative Update to WEB

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          Bruce Barth Presents Annual Benefits Legislative Update to WEB

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Group Chair Bruce B. Barth presented a legislative and regulatory update to the Worldwide Employee Benefits Network Hartford Chapter on January 19, 2012. Mr. Barth discussed model administrative practices in light of the changes affecting employee benefit plans and described how the new requirements may affect plans in 2012 and beyond. He focused on changes from the passage of health care reform, the issuance of regulations and model notices by the tri-agencies of Treasury, Labor and Health & Human Services, and the retirement plan disclosure rules and proposed definition of fiduciary.
      • June 28, 2011

        Bruce Barth Discusses Defined Contribution Plans at FIA Conference

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          Bruce Barth Discusses Defined Contribution Plans at FIA Conference

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Practice Group chair Bruce B. Barth participated in a defined contribution roundtable at the Fiduciary Investment Advisors annual client conference on June 15, 2011. Around 180 plan sponsors and investment advisors attended the conference at the Water’s Edge Resort & Spa in West Brook, Connecticut. Mr. Barth and fellow panelists Joseph J. Masterson of Diversified Investment Advisors, Dave Gray of Schwab Retirement Plan Services, and Kim Baker of T. Rowe Price discussed some of the current trends in state-of-the-art defined contribution plans and how the industry is addressing retirement readiness and fee disclosure requirements. Karen Paulson of Fiduciary Investment Advisors moderated the panel.
      • June 16, 2011

        Bruce Barth Weighs-in on Pension Plan Ruling in CT Law Tribune

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          Bruce Barth Weighs-in on Pension Plan Ruling in CT Law Tribune

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Practice Group chair Bruce B. Barth was quoted in the Connecticut Law Tribune article “Pension Plan Ruling Opens Door for Plaintiffs” on June 6, 2011. Mr. Barth commented that the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Cigna Corp. v. Amara represents a mixed bag for employees and management. “It arguably opens up additional remedies for plaintiffs, and it closes one door,” he said. “The court basically said [plaintiffs] cannot reform a plan; you can’t decide what provisions can go in it if they’re not already there.”
      • May 6, 2011

        Bruce Barth Presents on New Health Care Reform Laws

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          Bruce Barth Presents on New Health Care Reform Laws

          Employee benefits and compensation partner Bruce B. Barth presented “Health Care Reform: A Practical Look from the HR Perspective” to the Human Resource Association of Central Connecticut, an affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management. Around 45 human resource professionals from the private employer sector attended the event at the Hartford Marriott Rocky Hill Hotel on April 26, 2011. Mr. Barth presented a timeline of when various health care reform provisions become effective for sponsors of group health plans and focused on employer responsibilities because of legal changes.
      • April 5, 2011

        Benefits Attorneys Present at CBIA’s 2011 Compensation & Benefits Conference

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          Benefits Attorneys Present at CBIA’s 2011 Compensation & Benefits Conference

          Employee benefits and compensation attorneys Bruce B. Barth and Melanie J. Hancock presented at the Connecticut Business and Industry Association’s Conference “Employee Benefits, Pension & Total Rewards in the Post-Healthcare Reform Era” in Cromwell, Connecticut, on March 24, 2011. Mr. Barth presented “Employer Medical Plans: More than Just the PPACA,” giving an overview of ERISA and the fiduciary obligations it imposes, genetic nondiscrimination considerations, updated mental health parity guidance, the HITECH Act’s privacy and security provisions, and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Ms. Hancock presented “How to Comply with the Most Recent Healthcare Reform Guidance” focusing on the most important issues employers need to consider for healthcare reform as they provide employees with competitive benefits packages in the years to come.

          The CBIA also featured a Q&A with Mr. Barth on health care reform in their recent newsletter.

      • January 18, 2011

        Bruce Barth Provides Annual Legislative and Regulatory Update for WEB

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          Bruce Barth Provides Annual Legislative and Regulatory Update for WEB

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Group Chair Bruce B. Barth recently spoke at the annual legislative and regulatory update meeting of the Worldwide Employee Benefits Network. He has provided this annual update for over 10 years. Mr. Barth addressed changes that were required for benefit plans in 2010 and changes that may be needed in 2011 and beyond. He focused on the new Department of Labor fee disclosure rules applicable to qualified plans, the new fiduciary rules applicable to all benefit plans, certain aspects of health care reform, and other changes impacting executive compensation and other benefit programs.
      • January 10, 2011

        Bruce Barth Panelist on “Health Care Reform: What HR Needs to Know”

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          Bruce Barth Panelist on “Health Care Reform: What HR Needs to Know”

          Employee Benefits and Compensation Group Chair Bruce B. Barth recently spoke at the Society for Human Resource Management program “Health Care Reform: What HR Needs to Know,” attended by more than 150 human resources professionals. Mr. Barth was one of two panelists who spoke about all the health care reform changes focusing on the impact they will have on employers in 2010 and 2011.
      • September 23, 2010

        Hospital Honors Corporate Sponsors

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          Hospital Honors Corporate Sponsors

          The Hospital for Special Care in New Britain, Connecticut, honored several corporate partners for donating over $1 million to support the hospital’s adaptive sports program for children with disabilities. Bruce B. Barth, a partner in the Tax and Tax Exempt Organizations Practice Group, represented Robinson & Cole. The firm and several other organizations helped sponsor the Ivan Lendl Golf Classic and were recognized at the hospital’s Ivan Lendl Adaptive Sports Camp at St. Joseph College.

          To see a photo of Mr. Barth with tennis legend Ivan Lendl and Hospital for Special Care senior vice president Lynn Ricci, click here.

      • June 14, 2010

        Robinson & Cole Partner Quoted in Hartford Business Journal on Health Care Reform Impact to Local Businesses

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          Robinson & Cole Partner Quoted in Hartford Business Journal on Health Care Reform Impact to Local Businesses

          Employee benefits and compensation attorney Bruce Barth was quoted in two articles in the Hartford Business Journal on how the new health care reform bill will impact health care coverage that small, medium and large Connecticut companies provide for their workers. In the article "Business Rethinks Stand on Benefits," published on May 31, Mr. Barth discussed the decisions companies will face in 2014 when they will be required to offer health care coverage if they have 50 or more employees, including weighing the costs and benefits of offering coverage or paying the relatively low fines for not offering it. In the article "Health Care Changes Take Shape," published on May 24, he drew attention to some provisions of the health care reform bill going into effect for plan years beginning after September 23 that will impact health plans options for businesses, such as requiring group health plans to cover certain preventative services at no cost to the employee and prohibiting health plans from imposing preexisting condition exclusions for children under 19, placing lifetime dollar limits on medical claims, placing unreasonable annual dollar limits on claims, and rescinding health coverage once an individual is covered under the plan, unless the individual acted fraudulently or made an intentional misrepresentation of a material fact.
      • November 13, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Partner Speaks at First Annual SPPON Trustee Symposium

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          Robinson & Cole Partner Speaks at First Annual SPPON Trustee Symposium

          Labor & Employment Partner Bruce B. Barth recently participated in a panel discussion entitled “Trustee Fiduciary & Legal Responsibilities” during the First Annual Statewide Public Pension Organization Network (SPPON) Trustee Symposium in Boston, Massachusetts.

      R+C News Releases

      • October 26, 2023

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2023 Super Lawyers®

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          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.

        • View article
      • October 11, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

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          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.

        • View article
      • August 18, 2022

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

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          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.

        • View article
      • October 14, 2021

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 42 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named to Super Lawyers® lists in the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2021. In addition, 29 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.”

          Bruce B. Barth and Jeffrey J. White were named to the Top 50: 2021 Connecticut Super Lawyers list. Linda L. Morkan appears on the Top 25: 2021 Women Connecticut Super Lawyers list and, similarly, Natalie D. Ramsey was included in the Top 50: 2021 Women Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Read more in the press release.

        • View article
      • August 19, 2021

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

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          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.

        • View article
      • May 24, 2021

        Chambers USA Recognizes 19 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 10 Practice Areas

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          Chambers USA Recognizes 19 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 10 Practice Areas

          In its 2021 edition, the legal directory Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized 19 Robinson+Cole lawyers, including one that has been recognized nationwide. In addition, the firm received rankings in seven practice area categories that the publication covers in Connecticut. Read more in the press release.

        • View article
      • October 15, 2020

        47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

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          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.

        • View article
      • August 20, 2020

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

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          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.

        • View article
      • April 23, 2020

        Chambers USA Recognizes 20 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 11 Practice Areas in CT, PA, and RI and Nationwide

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          Chambers USA Recognizes 20 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 11 Practice Areas in CT, PA, and RI and Nationwide

          In its 2020 edition, the legal directory Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in all six practice area categories that the publication covers in Connecticut. In addition, 20 lawyers were individually ranked from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island, including one that has been recognized nationwide. Read more in the press release.

        • View article
      • October 19, 2019

        52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          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.

        • View article
      • August 15, 2019

        57 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

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          57 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

          57 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020. Of the 57 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 44 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 litigation-construction.

          Additionally, the following four lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Thomas P. Cody in Real Estate Law, Michael R. Enright in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, John B. Lynch Jr. in Mergers and Acquisitions Law, and Theodore J. Tucci in Insurance Law. Kathleen M. Porter was also named a Best Lawyers® 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” in Boston, Massachusetts, in the area of Information Technology Law. Read more in the press release.

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      • October 17, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          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.

        • View article
      • August 15, 2017

        Fifty-Nine Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018

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          Fifty-Nine Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018

          Fifty-nine Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018 (Copyright 2017 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Of the 59 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.

          Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2018 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Litigation – Construction; Stephen E. Goldman in Insurance Law; Stuart D. Rosen in Litigation – Banking and Finance; Edward J. Samorajczyk Jr. in Securities / Capital Markets Law; William T. Sellay in Mergers and Acquisitions Law; and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law.

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the press release.

        • View article
      • May 26, 2017

        Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

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          Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized the law firm of Robinson+Cole in six practice area categories in its 2017 edition and has individually recognized 18 of the firm’s lawyers, including one lawyer who received nationwide recognition.  
          Robinson+Cole earned rankings in each of the practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.
          See the full press release for the list of Robinson+Cole lawyers included in Chambers USA 2017.

        • View article
      • October 18, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          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 2016. 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, 23 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.

        • View article
      • August 15, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2017

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          Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2017

          Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2017 (Copyright 2016 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Across the firm’s practice groups and offices, 57 lawyers were named to this year’s list, including 47 in Connecticut.

          Additionally, the following four lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2017 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Construction Law; Judith M. Keppelman  in Litigation – Trusts and Estates; Linda L. Morkan in Appellate Practice; and Edward J. Samorajczyk Jr. in Corporate Law.

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the news release.

        • View article
      • May 27, 2016

        Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

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          Chambers USA Recognizes Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Practice Groups

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in six practice area categories in its 2016 edition and has individually recognized 19 of the firm's lawyers, including one lawyer recognized nationwide.
          Robinson+Cole earned rankings in each of the practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.
          See the full press release for the list of Robinson+Cole lawyers included in Chambers USA 2016.
        • View article
      • October 19, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 54 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2015. 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, 21 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here. See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

        • View article
      • August 18, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2016

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          Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in The Best Lawyers in America® 2016

          Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2016 (Copyright 2015 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Across the firm’s practice groups and offices, 55 lawyers were named to this year’s list, including 45 in Connecticut.

          Additionally, the following seven lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2016 “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Bruce B. Barth in Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law; Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Litigation – Construction; Stephen E. Goldman in Insurance Law; Joey Lee Miranda in Environmental Law; Craig A. Raabe in Litigation – Intellectual Property; Edward J. Samorajczyk, Jr., in Securities / Capital Markets Law; and William T. Sellay in Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Peter V. Lacouture was named the Best Lawyers® 2016 “Lawyer of the Year” in Energy Law in Providence, Rhode Island.

          See a complete listing of all Robinson+Cole's ranked lawyers in the news release.

        • View article
      • May 19, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Earns Six Practice Area Rankings in Chambers USA 2015

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          Robinson+Cole Earns Six Practice Area Rankings in Chambers USA 2015

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in six practice area categories in its 2015 edition and has individually recognized 19 of the firm's lawyers, including one lawyer recognized nationwide.

          Robinson+Cole earned rankings in each of the practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor &Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.

          See the Robinson+Cole lawyers included in Chambers USA 2015 in the full news release.

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      • October 17, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers

          A total of 54 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York for 2014.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, 21 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

          To see the recognized attorneys and their areas of practice, click here.

        • View article
      • August 19, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson+Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Lawyer Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson+Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of Connecticut lawyers selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2015 (Copyright 2014 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken,SC). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 56 lawyers were named to this year's list, including 46 in Connecticut.

          Additionally, the following six lawyers were named the Best Lawyers® 2015 "Lawyer of the Year" in Hartford, Connecticut, in the noted practice areas: Dennis C. Cavanaugh in Construction Law; Gregory R. Faulkner in Litigation – Construction; Judith M.Keppelman in Litigation – Trusts and Estates; Craig A. Raabe in Criminal Defense: Non-White-Collar and Litigation – Antitrust; William T. Sellay in Corporate Law; and Theodore J. Tucci in Health Care Law.

          See the full list of included lawyers in the press release here.

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      • July 2, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Wins ACG New York Champion’s Award

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          Robinson+Cole Wins ACG New York Champion’s Award

          ACG® New York and The M&A Advisor have announced the winners of the 4th Annual ACG New York Champion's Awards, and Robinson+Cole won in the category of Leveraged Buyout of the Year by a Financial Buyer (over $100 Million) for representing Nielsen Holdings N.V. (NYSE: NLSN) in its sale of Nielsen Expositions to Onex Corporation (TSX: OCX) for $950 million.

          The winners were announced at the 4th Annual ACG New York Champion's Awards Gala on Thursday, June 19, before a sold-out crowd at the Metropolitan Club. In addition to winning this award, Robinson+Cole was named a finalist in the categories of Technology, Media, Telecom (over $100mm) and Deal of the Year (over $500mm). Read more here.

           

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      • June 5, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Finalist for the 4th Annual ACG New York Champion’s Award

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          Robinson+Cole Finalist for the 4th Annual ACG New York Champion’s Award

          ACG® New York and The M&A Advisor have announced finalists for the 4th Annual ACG New York Champion's Awards, and Robinson+Cole was named a finalist in three of 38 categories. Robinson+Cole is in the running in the categories of Technology, Media, Telecom (over $100mm); Leveraged Buyout of the Year by a Financial Buyer (over $100mm); and Deal of the Year (over $500mm) for representing Nielsen Holdings N.V. (NYSE: NLSN) in its sale of Nielsen Expositions to Onex Corporation (TSX: OCX) for $950 million.

          Robinson+Cole has been selected out of more than 350 nominees in the first stage of evaluation, and the independent panel of judges will now focus their attention on selecting the ultimate award winners. The winners will be announced at the 4th Annual ACG New York Champion's Awards Gala on Thursday, June 19, at the Metropolitan Club.

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      • May 29, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Earns Rankings in Chambers USA 2014 in all Connecticut Practice Areas

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          Robinson+Cole Earns Rankings in Chambers USA 2014 in all Connecticut Practice Areas

          The legal directory Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized Robinson+Cole in six practice area categories in its 2014 edition and has individually recognized 21 of the firm's lawyers, including three labor and employment lawyers who are ranked for the first time, one as an "Associate to Watch."  

          Adding the Labor & Employment ranking this year gives Robinson+Cole rankings in all the practice areas that Chambers USA covers in Connecticut: Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.

           

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      • November 15, 2013

        Hartford Symphony Orchestra Elects Bruce B. Barth to Board of Directors

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          Hartford Symphony Orchestra Elects Bruce B. Barth to Board of Directors

          The Hartford Symphony Orchestra has elected Bruce B. Barth to its Board of Directors. The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 70th anniversary, which spans the 2013 to 2014 season. Its mission is to perform live orchestral music of the highest quality for continually expanding audiences and, through its educational programs, to increase the understanding and enjoyment of that music by residents in Connecticut.
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      • August 16, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2014 (Copyright 2013 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 56 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 48 in Connecticut and 2 who received the distinction for the first time.

          Additionally, three lawyers were named "Lawyer of the Year" for 2014. Judith M. Keppelman was named Hartford Trusts and Estates "Lawyer of the Year," Dwight H. Merriam was named Hartford Litigation - Real Estate "Lawyer of the Year," and James A. Wade was named Hartford Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants "Lawyer of the Year."

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      • May 23, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Expands Rapidly Growing Private Equity/M&A Practice

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          Robinson & Cole Expands Rapidly Growing Private Equity/M&A Practice

          Robinson & Cole continues to expand its private equity/mergers and acquisitions (M&A) practice with recent hires in its New York City, Boston, and Connecticut offices. On May 20, 2013, the firm completed the relocation of its New York City office to the Chrysler East Building to accommodate its continued growth.
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      • October 22, 2012

        Super Lawyers® Names 49 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2012 List and Recognizes 26 as Rising Stars

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          Super Lawyers® Names 49 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2012 List and Recognizes 26 as Rising Stars

          A total of 49 Robinson & Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island for 2012. 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, 26 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

          Recognized attorneys and their areas of practice can be read in the full press release.

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      • September 14, 2012

        Ten Robinson & Cole Attorneys Selected as “Lawyers of the Year”

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          Ten Robinson & Cole Attorneys Selected as “Lawyers of the Year”

          Robinson & Cole LLP congratulates its 2013 "Lawyers of the Year" as designated by The Best Lawyers in America® (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, SC).

          Those honored, and their area of practice, include the following:

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      • August 28, 2012

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole LLP was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 (© 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Across the firm's practice groups and offices, 55 attorneys were named to this year's list, including 46 in Connecticut and 10 who received the distinction for the first time.

          Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 4.4 million confidential evaluations are submitted by attorneys on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas. Additional information regarding the Best Lawyers selection methodology may be read here. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers "the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice."

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      • September 12, 2011

        Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

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          Robinson & Cole Receives Top Listing in Connecticut Attorney Count in Best Lawyers National Peer Review Survey

          Robinson & Cole LLP was again recognized as having the highest number of attorneys in Connecticut selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2012 (© 2011 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). In addition, the firm achieved the distinction of being the top-listed firm with the most listed attorneys in the state in the areas of Environmental Law, Insurance Law, Litigation - Construction, and Litigation - Intellectual Property. The firm is also top-listed in Hartford, Connecticut, and in the areas of Corporate Law, Environmental Law, Litigation - Construction, and Trusts and Estates for the city.

          Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 3.1 million confidential evaluations are submitted by attorneys on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice areas. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers "the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice."

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    • Legal Updates/Newsletters

      Legal Updates/Newsletters

      "New Reporting Requirements for Governmental Plans in Connecticut" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity (7/7/2023)

      "New IRS Pre-Examination Compliance Pilot for Retirement Plans" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity (6/6/2022)

      "January 1, 2022 Deadline for Plan Sponsors to Post Surprise Billing Notice" co-authored with Alisha N. Sullivan and Virginia E. McGarrity (12/15/2021)

      "IRS Clarifies Key Provisions of the COBRA Subsidy" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (5/19/2021)

      "No Time to Waste: Employer Action Needed for COBRA Subsidy Administration" co-authored with Alisha N. Sullivan and Virginia E. McGarrity (4/28/2021)

      "New Opportunities and Issues for Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts in 2020 and 2021" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (3/18/2021)

      "COBRA Subsidies Return as Part of Latest COVID-19 Relief Bill" co-authored with Alisha N. Sullivan, Jean E. Tomasco and Virginia E. McGarrity (3/11/2021)

      "IRS Issues More COVID-Related Guidance on Flexible Spending Accounts" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity, Jean E. Tomasco and Alisha N. Sullivan (3/8/2021)

      "EBSA Notice and COBRA Extension Expiration" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity, Jean E. Tomasco, Alisha N. Sullivan and Patrick W. Begos (3/1/2021)

      "COVID-19 Stimulus Bill Provisions Affecting Employee Benefits" co-authored with Alisha N. Sullivan and Virginia E. McGarrity (1/8/2021)

      "Work from Anywhere? Telecommuting and Tax Obligations for Employers: Practical Considerations and Tips for Human Resources and Management" co-authored with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Ryan V. Leichsenring, Alisha N. Sullivan, Abby M. Warren and Kayla N. West (12/18/2020)

      "IRS Provides Additional Guidance on CARES Act Retirement Plan Distributions and Loans" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (6/24/20)

      "Department of Labor Finalizes ERISA Requirements for Providing Electronic Retirement Plan Disclosures" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (6/12/2020)
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        • Department of Labor Finalizes ERISA Requirements for Providing Electronic Retirement Plan Disclosures

        "Department of Labor Finalizes ERISA Requirements for Providing Electronic Retirement Plan Disclosures" co-authored by Bruce B. Barth, Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (6/12/2020)

        On May 27, 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued a final rule providing a new “notice and access” safe harbor for retirement plan fiduciaries to distribute ERISA required disclosures electronically (Final Rule). The Final Rule becomes effective July 27, 2020; however, the DOL will not take any enforcement action against a plan fiduciary that relies on the Final Rule sooner.

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      "IRS Issues Guidance on Cafeteria Plan Elections and Other Changes Amid COVID-19 Pandemic" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (5/13/2020)
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        • IRS Issues Guidance on Cafeteria Plan Elections and Other Changes Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

        "IRS Issues Guidance on Cafeteria Plan Elections and Other Changes Amid COVID-19 Pandemic" co-authored by Bruce B. Barth, Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (5/13/2020)

        On May 12, 2020, the IRS issued two notices affecting employee elections under Code Section 125 cafeteria plans. The COVID-19 pandemic and large-scale "stay at home" orders left many employers facing questions relating to elections employees made with respect to their health and dependent care benefits long before the start of the pandemic.

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      "Joint Agency Guidance Extends COBRA and Other ERISA Deadlines" co-authored with Virginia E. McGarrity and Alisha N. Sullivan (5/7/20)

      "CARES Act Provisions Affecting Employee Benefits" co-authored with Alisha N. Sullivan and Virginia E. McGarrity (3/27/20)