Kathleen Dion

Kathleen E. Dion

(she/her/hers)

Partner

Kathleen E. Dion

(she/her/hers)

Partner

  • Overview

    Biography

    Kathleen E. Dion focuses her practice on providing counseling and dispute resolution advice to colleges, universities, independent schools, child care centers, and organizations serving children and youths. In addition, she has a nationwide practice litigating complex civil cases and defending individuals and companies in white-collar criminal matters. Kate chairs the firm’s interdisciplinary Education Industry Team and is a member of the firm’s Business Litigation Group and Internal Investigations and Corporate Compliance Team. 

    Education Law

    Kate has a deep understanding of the present and future challenges facing educational entities and youth organizations, and thus is able to uniquely represent and counsel her clients on a variety of complex legal issues while also maintaining a focus on the institution’s larger, longer-term objectives. Because of her extensive experience serving as outside general counsel to universities and independent schools, she is well positioned to offer expert technical counsel to clients in a personable manner reflecting her appreciation of the complex and sensitive subject matters facing her clients. She works closely with an institution’s leadership team to solve problems in unique and creative ways to the maximum benefit of the institution. 

    Kate counsels education clients in a broad range of areas, including crisis management, protection of minors, sexual misconduct allegations and Title IX compliance, student discipline matters, disability accommodations, Clery Act compliance and campus security issues, Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) compliance, reviewing, revising and implementing handbooks and necessary policies, contracts, NCAA compliance, and governance matters. She also serves as a Title IX investigator, advisor and decision-maker.

    Kate assists child care centers and organizations serving youth and children in responding to government investigations, conducting internal investigations, regulatory compliance, protection of minors, crisis counseling and development of policies and handbooks.

    When it is not possible to avoid litigation, Kate is a skilled advocate representing clients in high-stakes, highly sensitive lawsuits in state and federal courts.

    Complex Civil Litigation

    Kate represents clients across the country in a variety of business disputes. Her courtroom experience ranges from federal and state jury trials to arbitrations and administrative hearings. She has represented financial services companies, health care organizations and defense contractors, among other clients. Kate’s successes include obtaining a favorable mid-trial settlement for a defense contractor in a dispute involving allegations of breach of contract and breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. She has successfully argued appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, the Connecticut Supreme Court and the Connecticut Appellate Court. 

    Government Enforcement and White-Collar Criminal Defense

    Kate assists public and private companies with internal investigations on a variety of matters, including financial wrongdoing and regulatory non-compliance. While investigating the embezzlement of hundreds of thousands of dollars from a health care organization, she obtained a full confession from the former chief financial officer and helped coordinate with federal agencies, which led to the CFO's criminal conviction. She has assisted with multiple corporate embezzlement investigations, helping to catch those responsible and recover stolen funds.

    Kate has tried serious felony criminal cases in state and federal court and is active in the criminal defense bar. She is regularly court appointed to defend clients in criminal matters and has been recognized by the Federal District Court for the District of Connecticut for making substantial contributions in this area.

    Pro Bono

    Kate has devoted significant time to the representation of pro bono clients. She was part of a group of Robinson+Cole attorneys whose legal assistance ultimately allowed a soup kitchen and food pantry to remain open, despite attempts by the local municipality to close them. She participates in the firm’s Domestic Violence Restraining Order Program, which provides free legal services to victims of family violence. Kate also successfully argued an appeal before the Second Circuit Court of Appeals for a prisoner on a civil rights claim. She was the recipient of the firm’s Pro Bono Service Award in 2013.

    Kate is a member of the firm’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team, and regularly contributes to the firm’s Data Privacy + Security Insider publication, writing about Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and Fourth Amendment issues. She also contributes to the Health Law Diagnosis blog. Prior to joining the firm, she served as a law clerk to the Honorable Robert E. Beach of the Connecticut Appellate Court.

     

  • Experience
    • Experience

      Experience

        Educational Institutions

      • Represented a religious order against claims arising from alleged sexual abuse of a minor during the early 1970s by a teacher employed at a school run by the order. Claims in this action include negligent hiring, supervision, retention, breach of fiduciary duties, conspiracy, and vicarious liability.

      • Represented well-known, independent, coeducational boarding school in Massachusetts in litigation involving alleged abuse by former faculty member. Worked extensively with Board Chair to expedite resolution of the claim so the school could be spared from protracted litigation.

      • Counseled various educational institutions on issues related to mandatory reporting requirements, disclosure of student records issues, contract disputes, employee misconduct complaints, and other issues.

      • Successfully defended university and professor against claims of defamation for publication of unfavorable research data. The plaintiff abandoned the case prior to filing suit. 

      • Obtained summary judgment on behalf of an educational institution with regard to a negligent supervision claim arising from alleged sexual abuse of a minor during the late 1970s by a teacher employed at the institution.

        • Investigations and Criminal Defense

      • Representation of three foundations to investigate embezzlement from the foundations, which were incorporated in three different states. An employee of the foundations’ management company embezzled over $1 million from the foundations collectively by writing fraudulent checks and making fraudulent wire transfers. Representation involved working with a forensic accountant to investigate the extent of the loss, analyzing electronic bank records and computer software, and interviewing the management companies’ employees and the independent auditor’s personnel. Robinson & Cole coordinated the foundations’ reporting of the findings of the investigation to attorneys general offices that oversee the foundations and assisted with the Department of Justice and Secret Service’s investigation and prosecution of the wrongdoer. Robinson & Cole also assisted the foundations in seeking recovery from the management company and the independent auditors.

      • Conducted internal investigation for health care organization arising from embezzlement of several hundred thousand dollars by its chief financial officer. Ultimately, through the investigation, we obtained a full confession from the former CFO and then coordinated with the U.S. Department of Justice, the FBI, and the IRS for a successful criminal conviction of him. Thereafter, we assisted the client organization in obtaining a full recovery of its losses.

      • Assisted in representation of Rhode Island construction company in connection with claims that the company was defrauding the federal government in connection with an ongoing project. After conducting an internal investigation for the company, we worked with the company to prepare a self-disclosure to the federal government demonstrating the isolated nature of the issue and the company's remedial action. In response, the federal government decided to take no action whatsoever against our client.

      • Helped conduct internal investigations for health care, financial services, and educational organizations arising from misuse of the entities' technology by employees, including to access potentially illegal or contraband content or to misappropriate confidential, proprietary information or trade secrets. In some instances, those investigations have required coordination with law enforcement agencies to demonstrate that our client had not engaged in wrongful conduct.

      • Conducted internal investigation for Massachusetts health care organization arising from concerns about potential violations of federal and state anti-kickback statutes. Following the investigation, we represented the organization in a voluntary self-disclosure to federal and state law enforcement authorities arising from the investigation, which resulted in a favorable financial resolution and no prosecution of criminal or civil claim against individuals associated with the organization. 

      • Conducted internal investigation for New York, Connecticut, and Delaware nonprofit foundations in connection with a seven-figure embezzlement by an employee of the foundations' management company. Following the investigation, we brought the findings to the U.S. Department of Justice for successful prosecution and criminal conviction of the former employee. The firm obtained a recovery of nearly all of the foundations' losses from various sources. 

      • Represented individual during all stages of criminal investigation and federal prosecution by United States Attorney’s Office. Obtained favorable non-United States Sentencing Guidelines sentence.

      • Represented Criminal Justice Act client through all stages of federal prosecution by United States Attorney’s Office, including month long jury trial.

      • Represented various clients as targets and witnesses in Internal Revenue Service investigations.

      • Obtained the acquittal of an individual who had been charged with sexual assault.

      • Obtained a dismissal of all charges for an individual who had been charged with sexual assault of a minor.

      • Represented company in an investigation by the U.S. Department of Transportation, including during the raid of the company’s offices.

        • Business Litigation

      • Successfully defended entity in arbitration involving multimillion-dollar breach of contract claims. The arbitration concluded after several days of evidence, and the three arbitrators thereafter issued a unanimous award in favor of our client.

      • Assisted with representation of consumer-facing company in joint investigation and lawsuit brought by the Federal Trade Commission and the Connecticut Attorney General's Office regarding nationwide Internet marketing practices. Helped with negotiating a favorable financial resolution and settlement terms for client.

      • Successfully defended national cosmetics manufacturing company in connection with a threatened class action in California. Following a rapid internal investigation and curative measures by our client, the plaintiff abandoned the case.

      • Represented tea company in connection with consumer class action claims in California federal court. The class representative brought claims alleging misleading packaging promoting health benefits of tea products. The case settled after successful dispositive motions.

      • Represented national consumer products company in deceptive practices class action filed in federal court in California. The matter was settled favorably for our client.

      • Obtained mid-trial settlement after cross-examination of opposing party’s primary witness for client in manufacturing-related dispute involving allegations of breach of contract.

      • Successfully defended a manufacturer of nutritional supplements against a proposed nationwide consumer product class action brought in California state court. The manufacturer, which distributes its product worldwide, was facing claims based on allegations that included product mislabeling and unfair trade practices, as well as violations of the California Consumers Legal Remedies Act (CLRA) and California-specific causes of action. We aggressively litigated the case in the early stages, and prior to any discovery production by the defendant or any depositions being conducted, the plaintiff agreed to a voluntarily dismissal with prejudice without any payment from the defendant.

      • Successfully obtained a verdict in favor of our client after a bench trial in a shareholder dispute action.

      • Represented financial institution in an interpleader action. Successfully obtained an Interlocutory Judgment of Interpleader and order for payment of attorney’s fees over objection by a defendant.

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    • Professional Associations

      Professional Associations

      Connecticut Bar Association
      Member, Education Law Section
      Former Consumer Law Committee Co-chair, Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee
      Former Education Law Committee Co-chair, Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee
      Former Federal Practice Committee Chair, Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee

      American Bar Association

      Massachusetts Bar Association

      Women's White Collar Defense Association

      Connecticut Bar Foundation
      James W. Cooper Fellow

      United States District Court for the District of Connecticut
      Member, Criminal Justice Act Standing Committee (2024 - 2025)
    • Honors + Awards

      Honors + Awards

      Recognized as a "40 Under Forty" winner by BusinessWest for 2018.

      Connecticut Law Tribune, recognized in 2017 New Leaders in the Law Yearbook

      Selected as a Rising Star to the Connecticut Super Lawyers list from 2016 to 2019.

      Presented with the Ascending Alumni Award and the Distinguished Law Review Alumni Award from Western New England University School of Law in 2019

      Robinson+Cole Pro Bono Service Award Recipient, 2013

      Named to the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) First 100 Plus Class of 2018 for demonstrating leadership and commitment to improving the lives of domestic violence survivors throughout Connecticut.

    • Community Involvement

      Community Involvement

      KNOX
      Board of Directors, Secretary (2015 - 2018)

      Longmeadow Educational Excellence Foundation
      Former President Emeritus

      Longmeadow Montessori Internationale
      Board Member (2014 - 2018)
  • NEWS + PRESS
    • Publications

      Publications

      "Breaking the Mold – Best Practices by Educational Institutions to Limit Mold Exposure and Loss," co-authored with Brian C. Freeman and Mallori D. Thompson, published in American School & University (6/8/2023)
      • » more info

        • Breaking the Mold – Best Practices by Educational Institutions to Limit Mold Exposure and Loss

        "Breaking the Mold – Best Practices by Educational Institutions to Limit Mold Exposure and Loss," co-authored by Brian C. Freeman, Mallori D. Thompson and Kathleen E. Dion, published in American School & University (6/8/2023)

        In the article, the authors point out that while “mold is one of the oldest life forms on the planet,” there are actually very few clear regulatory definitions of acceptable versus unacceptable levels of mold. “Given that, plus the different types of mold as well as different levels of personal sensitivity, determining the risk from mold exposure can be complex.” While the likely first response to any mold complaint is to initiate immediate testing, the authors suggest that “questions regarding the process, scope, and type of testing raises issues that must be addressed...The time and costs required for testing and the potential value (or not) of test results should also be considered against prevention, detection, and abatement strategies.”

      • View article

      "Avoid ‘Deadnaming’: How Universities and Colleges Can Get Ahead of Preferred Name Usage," co-authored with Janet Kljyan, published in University Business (3/21/2022)
      • » more info

        • Avoid ‘Deadnaming’: How Universities and Colleges Can Get Ahead of Preferred Name Usage

        "Avoid ‘Deadnaming’: How Universities and Colleges Can Get Ahead of Preferred Name Usage," co-authored by Janet Kljyan and Kathleen E. Dion, published in University Business (3/21/2022)

        The article covers challenges facing universities and colleges around the country from growing requests by students to identify themselves by a preferred or chosen name in place of the student’s legal name. The authors suggest that having a clear and thoughtful policy in place to address preferred name usage will help avoid “ad hoc or case-by-case determinations to grant such requests for a few reasons.” Universities and colleges may want to review a number of considerations as develop their policies, including: “(1) the logistics of establishing and utilizing a preferred name, (2) matters requiring the use of a legal name, and (3) identifying instances that may warrant rejecting a student’s request to use a preferred name.”

      • View article

      "Escobar Materiality Standard for Implied False Certification Claims Poses Acute FCA Compliance Challenge," published in AHLA Connections, co-authored with Theodore J. Tucci and Conor O. Duffy (September 2017)

      "Administrative Procedures Are Focus of Insurance Case," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, co-authored with Jeffrey J. White (9/14/2015)
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        • Administrative Procedures Are Focus of Insurance Case

        "Administrative Procedures Are Focus of Insurance Case," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, co-authored by Kathleen E. Dion and Jeffrey J. White (9/14/2015)

        Mr. White and Ms. Dion discuss Connecticut Supreme Court decisions regarding the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, the Uniform Partnership Act, and the Fair Employment Practices Act, all of which affect the business community.

      • View article

      "Successor Liability, Retaliation and Sanctions," co-authored with Jeffrey J. White, published in Connecticut Law Tribune, appeared in the special supplement Connecticut Supreme Court Review 2014. The article reviews several Connecticut Supreme Court decisions in 2014 that have an impact on the business community. (9/22/2014)

      "Stay Ahead Of Curve With 'Voluntary Cure'," published in Connecticut Law Tribune, co-authored with Edward J. Heath (9/24/2012)

      "Means Test or Just a Mean Test: An Examination of the Requirement That Converted Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Debtors Comply with Amended Section 707(B)," published in American Bankruptcy Institute Law Review, coauthor (2008)

    • Presentations

      Presentations

      "Pregnancy Accommodations for Educational Institutions," co-presented with Rachel V. Kushel, an R+C-hosted webinar (10/24/2023)
      • » more info

        • Pregnancy Accommodations for Educational Institutions

        "Pregnancy Accommodations for Educational Institutions," co-presented by Rachel V. Kushel and Kathleen E. Dion, an R+C-hosted webinar (10/24/2023)

        During the informative virtual presentation, Kate and Rachel provided a review of legal accommodations and obligations that educational institutions must provide to employees and students related to pregnancy. Topics included a review of the relevant legal statutes and framework and issues to consider when navigating requests for accommodations.


      "Title IX Regulations on Students’ Eligibility for Athletic Teams," co-presented with Seth B. Orkand, hosted at Western New England University (5/15/2023)
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        • Title IX Regulations on Students’ Eligibility for Athletic Teams

        "Title IX Regulations on Students’ Eligibility for Athletic Teams," co-presented by Seth B. Orkand and Kathleen E. Dion, hosted at Western New England University (5/15/2023)

        Kate and Seth provided an overview of the key changes, followed by a discussion on how the new rules underscore the focus of the Department of Education’s enforcement priorities as well as practical solutions institutions should consider in preparation for the issuance of the final regulations.


      "HERstory Brunch," panelist as part of the Women’s Law Association of Western New England University (WNEU) School of Law’s first annual HERstory Brunch (3/31/2023)
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        • HERstory Brunch

        "HERstory Brunch," presented by Kathleen E. Dion, panelist as part of the Women’s Law Association of Western New England University (WNEU) School of Law’s first annual HERstory Brunch (3/31/2023)

        The aim of the event was to provide women in law within the Northeastern region with an opportunity to share their unique stories, communicate, and network with one another in a supportive environment, inevitably strengthening connections with each other. 


      "Are College Athletes Students or Employees? A Review of the Developing Legal Landscape Surrounding the “Student-Athlete” Debate," co-presented with Natale V. DiNatale (3/3/2023)
      • » more info

        • Are College Athletes Students or Employees? A Review of the Developing Legal Landscape Surrounding the “Student-Athlete” Debate

        "Are College Athletes Students or Employees? A Review of the Developing Legal Landscape Surrounding the “Student-Athlete” Debate," co-presented by Kathleen E. Dion and Natale V. DiNatale (3/3/2023)

        The U.S. Department of Education referred a discrimination complaint filed by college athletes against NCAA Division I schools to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission because the complaint “arises in the context of employment,” and the Third Circuit Court of Appeal is considering whether such athletes are employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The program reviewed this development, including the current legal landscape on the “student-athlete” debate and the relevant implications for colleges and universities.


      "Are College Athletes Students or Employees? A Review of the Current Legal Landscape Surrounding the Student-Athlete Debate," co-presented with Natale V. DiNatale, at the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges’ 2022 Annual Member Forum, “Partnering for Progress” (11/21/2022)
      • » more info

        • Are College Athletes Students or Employees? A Review of the Current Legal Landscape Surrounding the Student-Athlete Debate

        "Are College Athletes Students or Employees? A Review of the Current Legal Landscape Surrounding the Student-Athlete Debate," co-presented by Kathleen E. Dion and Natale V. DiNatale, at the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges’ 2022 Annual Member Forum, “Partnering for Progress” (11/21/2022)

        The U.S. Department of Education recently referred a discrimination complaint filed by college athletes against NCAA Division I schools to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission because the complaint arises in the context of employment. The virtual workshop session reviewed this development, including the current legal landscape on the student-athlete debate and the relevant implications for colleges and universities. CCIC's Annual Forum provides members an opportunity to gain information about the latest trends on campuses and discuss them with industry experts and colleagues from other institutions.


      "Mitigating Title IX Liability in Athletic Fundraising Policies and Procedures," an R+C-hosted webinar (11/8/2022)
      • » more info

        • Mitigating Title IX Liability in Athletic Fundraising Policies and Procedures

        "Mitigating Title IX Liability in Athletic Fundraising Policies and Procedures," presented by Kathleen E. Dion, an R+C-hosted webinar (11/8/2022)

        The program discussed the types of fundraising challenges that exist for intercollegiate athletics programs and addressed strategies for mitigating liability in gift agreements that direct monies to intercollegiate athletics programs, actions institutions can take to limit risks from booster organizations not affiliated with the institution, and how an internal audit can support the institution in its Title IX assessment of athletic policies and procedures.


      "Title IX Regulations: What You Need to Know," co-presented with Seth B. Orkand, an Education Roundtable discussion presented at Bay Path University (10/28/2022)
      • » more info

        • Title IX Regulations: What You Need to Know

        "Title IX Regulations: What You Need to Know," co-presented by Kathleen E. Dion and Seth B. Orkand, an Education Roundtable discussion presented at Bay Path University (10/28/2022)

        The program focused on the Department of Education’s proposed changes to Title IX regulations, highlighting some of the key changes, followed by a discussion of how the new rules underscore the DOE’s enforcement priorities as well as practical solutions institutions should consider in preparation for the issuance of the final regulations.


      "Supporting your international strategy with a spotlight on the higher education market and key jurisdictions from our best friend firms," co-presented with Kathleen M. Porter, the second in a series of webinars hosted by the UK-based law firm Mills & Reeve, looking at key developments and opportunities in the higher education sector (10/11/2022)
      • » more info

        • Supporting your international strategy with a spotlight on the higher education market and key jurisdictions from our best friend firms

        "Supporting your international strategy with a spotlight on the higher education market and key jurisdictions from our best friend firms," co-presented by Kathleen M. Porter and Kathleen E. Dion, the second in a series of webinars hosted by the UK-based law firm Mills & Reeve, looking at key developments and opportunities in the higher education sector (10/11/2022)

        With a focus on global strategy, topics of discussion included relevant key developments and issues in the U.S., opportunities for UK universities in the U.S., significant factors or restrictions to consider for UK universities thinking of operating or collaborating with organizations in the U.S., how UK universities are perceived in the U.S., and the experience of working with UK universities in the U.S.

         


      "Title IX: What Schools Need to Know to Prepare for Final Regulations," co-presented with Seth B. Orkand, an R+C-hosted webinar (9/29/2022)
      • » more info

        • Title IX: What Schools Need to Know to Prepare for Final Regulations

        "Title IX: What Schools Need to Know to Prepare for Final Regulations," co-presented by Kathleen E. Dion and Seth B. Orkand, an R+C-hosted webinar (9/29/2022)

        The Department of Education has released proposed major changes to the current Title IX regulations. Those revisions would remove barriers to reporting sexual harassment and extend protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity. They also would significantly alter schools’ responsibilities in responding to allegations of sexual misconduct. Kate and Seth presented a brief overview of the proposed regulations and highlighted some the most significant changes, offering insight on what schools should consider doing now to prepare for the final regulations.


      "Title IX: What Schools Need to Know to Prepare for Final Regulations," co-presented with Seth B. Orkand, a webinar hosted by the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges (8/25/2022)
      • » more info

        • Title IX: What Schools Need to Know to Prepare for Final Regulations

        "Title IX: What Schools Need to Know to Prepare for Final Regulations," co-presented by Seth B. Orkand and Kathleen E. Dion, a webinar hosted by the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges (8/25/2022)

        On June 23rd, in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Title IX civil rights law, the Department of Education released proposed major changes to the current Title IX regulations, changes that would remove barriers to reporting sexual harassment and extend protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The new regulations would also significantly alter schools’ responsibilities in responding to allegations of sexual misconduct. The webinar offered a brief overview of the proposed new regulations and highlighted some of the most significant changes, offering insight on what schools should consider doing now to prepare for the final regulations. 


      "What is Roe v. Wade, and what happens if it is overturned?" (5/25/2022)
      • » more info

        • What is Roe v. Wade, and what happens if it is overturned?

        "What is Roe v. Wade, and what happens if it is overturned?" presented by Kathleen E. Dion (5/25/2022)

        The virtual meeting, presented by Bay Path University featured a four-woman educational panel who discussed the historical perspective and the potential implications of the impending Supreme Court decision regarding Roe v. Wade, bringing together historical, legal, community, and health care perspectives to offer audience participants a greater understanding of the current law, how the law came to be, and what’s potentially at stake depending upon the Supreme Court’s much-anticipated ruling in June. 


      "Education Roundtable: A Discussion on Reopening Campuses for the Fall Semester," co-presented with Seth B. Orkand (7/29/2021)
      • » more info

        • Education Roundtable: A Discussion on Reopening Campuses for the Fall Semester

        "Education Roundtable: A Discussion on Reopening Campuses for the Fall Semester," co-presented by Seth B. Orkand and Kathleen E. Dion (7/29/2021)

        More than one year after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread vaccine distribution efforts are well underway. Although state and local governments and public health authorities have revised, relaxed, and in many cases, eliminated mask mandates and other COVID-19 emergency measures, recent increased rates of transmission of variant strains of the virus may be cause for concern. As colleges and universities prepare to welcome students back to campus in the fall, schools are considering programs, policies, and procedures that address the “new normal.” This Education Roundtable discussion addressed the challenges that in-house counsel may face in the fall and how members of our community plan to respond, including the campus living experience; policies on vaccines, masking, and other CDC recommendations in reopening plans; and how to best address student mental health concerns and disability accommodation requests.


      "COVID-19 and Returning to Campus: Liability Concerns for Educational Institutions," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, which addressed important topics that educational institutions, including universities and independent schools, should consider when deciding how to open their campuses, including recent guidance from the CDC as well as state and local governments. (6/30/2020)
      • » more info

        • COVID-19 and Returning to Campus: Liability Concerns for Educational Institutions

        "COVID-19 and Returning to Campus: Liability Concerns for Educational Institutions," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Kathleen E. Dion, which addressed important topics that educational institutions, including universities and independent schools, should consider when deciding how to open their campuses, including recent guidance from the CDC as well as state and local governments. (6/30/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group member, Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, and Education Industry Team Chair, Kate Dion, co-presented the webinar “COVID-19 and Returning to Campus: Liability Concerns for Educational Institutions” on June 30, 2020. The program addressed important topics that educational institutions, including universities and independent schools, should consider when deciding how to open their campuses, including recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control as well as state and local governments.


      "Defending Campus Sexual Assault Cases," a CLE seminar presented by the Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS) (10/30/2017)
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        • Defending Campus Sexual Assault Cases

        "Defending Campus Sexual Assault Cases," presented by Kathleen E. Dion, a CLE seminar presented by the Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS) (10/30/2017)

        The program covered how university and state investigations impact one another, the state’s considerations in handling campus sex assault cases, and how a defense attorney can balance the client’s needs to be protected criminally while preserving his or her ability to stay in school. 


      "Student Speech on Social Media: From Cyberbullying to Campus Protests," co-presented with Kathleen M. Porter, at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (AICUM) Fall Symposium 2017 at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/6/2017)
      • » more info

        • Student Speech on Social Media: From Cyberbullying to Campus Protests

        "Student Speech on Social Media: From Cyberbullying to Campus Protests," co-presented by Kathleen E. Dion and Kathleen M. Porter, at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (AICUM) Fall Symposium 2017 at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/6/2017)

        Ms. Porter and Ms. Dion discussed the use of policies by colleges and universities for controlling or blocking anonymous social media platforms, maintaining fair and risk-free discipline processes, and tailoring specific steps to investigate cyberbullying. They also presented on the challenges associated with each stage of inviting a controversial guest speaker to a college campus, including how to solicit and review invitations as well as how to maintain a spirited academic atmosphere while also protecting the students' right to assemble. The session also included a discussion of investigating handbook policy violations in these areas fairly and independently. 


      "Responding to Health Care Fraud Investigations—What to Do When the Government Knocks," co-presented with Edward J. Heath, webinar (6/5/2017)
      • » more info

        • Responding to Health Care Fraud Investigations—What to Do When the Government Knocks

        "Responding to Health Care Fraud Investigations—What to Do When the Government Knocks," co-presented by Kathleen E. Dion and Edward J. Heath, webinar (6/5/2017)

        The presentation focused on techniques for compliance officers, managers, and in-house counsel to use when government agents appear at their offices demanding information, documents, equipment, access to employees, and testimony. Additionally, they educated attendees on the various tools available to the government in the course of investigation and enforcement activities, such as administrative subpoenas, grand jury subpoenas, and search warrants. 


      "The Essentials of Federal Practice," co-presented with Nuala E. Droney and the Honorable Stefan R. Underhill of the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, a CLE program sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS) in New Britain, Connecticut (3/21/2017)
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        • The Essentials of Federal Practice

        "The Essentials of Federal Practice," co-presented by Nuala E. Droney, Kathleen E. Dion and the Honorable Stefan R. Underhill of the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, a CLE program sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS) in New Britain, Connecticut (3/21/2017)

        The session, a primer for lawyers new to federal civil litigation, provided an overview of issues that arise from the beginning to the end of a lawsuit, covering jurisdiction, venue, and pleading standards as well as discovery motion practice, trials, and appeals. Ms. Droney was a speaker, and Ms. Dion moderated the program. 


      "Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) Fall Symposium, College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/14/2016)
      • » more info

        • Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'

        "Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole'," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Kathleen E. Dion, presented at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) Fall Symposium, College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts (10/14/2016)

        The session covered what today's workplace scandal looks like, the impact of technology on investigations, how to determine when an employer must investigate a complaint, and how to craft a witness interview strategy and investigation scope. Click here for the PowerPoint. 


      "Risk Management for Independent Schools: Best Practices & The Board’s Role," presented at the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools Annual Conference on Governance, Hopkins School, New Haven, Connecticut (9/24/2016)

      "Navigating Substantive Legal Development in Health Law Practices," co-presented with Kathryn M. Rattigan and Lorianne M. Sainsbury-Wong of Health Law Advocates in Boston, David Harlow of The Harlow Group in Newton, and Roy J. Watson of the Watson Law Offices in Cambridge (2/10/2016)
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        • Navigating Substantive Legal Development in Health Law Practices

        "Navigating Substantive Legal Development in Health Law Practices," co-presented by Kathryn M. Rattigan, Kathleen E. Dion and Lorianne M. Sainsbury-Wong of Health Law Advocates in Boston, David Harlow of The Harlow Group in Newton, and Roy J. Watson of the Watson Law Offices in Cambridge (2/10/2016)

        Topics included digital health, HIPAA hot topics, charitable hospital duties under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obama Care) and the U.S. Tax Code, and corporate compliance strategies for health care organizations.




      "Responding to the Breaking Crisis: Conducting Internal Investigations in Healthcare Organizations," at Annual Healthcare Leaders Legal Update for the Connecticut Chapter of the Healthcare Financial Management Association (12/5/2014)
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        • Responding to the Breaking Crisis: Conducting Internal Investigations in Healthcare Organizations

        "Responding to the Breaking Crisis: Conducting Internal Investigations in Healthcare Organizations," at Annual Healthcare Leaders Legal Update for the Connecticut Chapter of the Healthcare Financial Management Association, presented by Kathleen E. Dion (12/5/2014)

        The presentation provided an overview on establishing immediate measures, determining the investigators and conducting an internal investigation, structuring the scope of the investigation, implementing remedial measures, and assessing the need to disclose the investigation results to the government.

         


      "Education Law: When to Call Outside Counsel," co-presented with Gregory R. Faulkner, Edward J. Heath and Nicole H. Najam, presented to University of Hartford doctoral students in Doctorate in Education Leadership program (7/30/2014)

      "Avoiding Common Legal Pitfalls and Risks," co-presented with Edward J. Heath, presented in collaboration with the Pro Bono Partnership and the Hartford Foundation of Public Giving, described solutions to nightmare nonprofit legal situations (3/9/2012)

    • News

      R+C in the News

      • October 26, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

      • June 19, 2023

        Kate Dion, Brian Freeman and Mallori Thompson Discuss Strategies for Dealing with Mold in Dormitories in American School & University Article

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          Kate Dion, Brian Freeman and Mallori Thompson Discuss Strategies for Dealing with Mold in Dormitories in American School & University Article

          Education Industry Team Chair Kathleen E. Dion, Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications lawyer Brian C. Freeman and Business Litigation Group lawyer Mallori D. Thompson co-authored the article “Breaking the Mold – Best Practices by Educational Institutions to Limit Mold Exposure and Loss,” published in American School & University, June 8, 2023. In the article, the authors point out that while “mold is one of the oldest life forms on the planet,” there are actually very few clear regulatory definitions of acceptable versus unacceptable levels of mold. “Given that, plus the different types of mold as well as different levels of personal sensitivity, determining the risk from mold exposure can be complex.” While the likely first response to any mold complaint is to initiate immediate testing, the authors suggest that “questions regarding the process, scope, and type of testing raises issues that must be addressed...The time and costs required for testing and the potential value (or not) of test results should also be considered against prevention, detection, and abatement strategies.” Read the article.

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      • July 11, 2022

        Kate Dion Quoted in University Business Article on Potential College Policy Pitfalls

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          Kate Dion Quoted in University Business Article on Potential College Policy Pitfalls

          Education Industry Team Chair Kathleen E. Dion was quoted in the article “Ready for the fall? 10 potential policy pitfalls college leaders must address this summer,” published in University Business on July 6, 2022. In the article, Kate highlights issues including cybersecurity, incident response, Title IX, COVID-19 procedures and mental health, among others. Kate said, “Now is a really great time to reflect on what happened during the past year. Use the opportunity to think about what went well, what could be done better, and what policies might have been implemented throughout the year that could be updated to better align with the university’s mission—initiatives like DEI and social justice.” Read the article.

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      • March 23, 2022

        Kate Dion and Janet Kljyan Author Article on “Deadnaming” and Setting Policy for Preferred Name Usage

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          Kate Dion and Janet Kljyan Author Article on “Deadnaming” and Setting Policy for Preferred Name Usage

          Education Industry Team Chair Kate Dion and Business Litigation Group lawyer Janet Kljyan authored the article, “Avoid ‘deadnaming’: How universities and colleges can get ahead of preferred name usage,” published on March 21, 2022, in University Business. The article covers challenges facing universities and colleges around the country from growing requests by students to identify themselves by a preferred or chosen name in place of the student’s legal name. The authors suggest that having a clear and thoughtful policy in place to address preferred name usage will help avoid “ad hoc or case-by-case determinations to grant such requests for a few reasons.” Universities and colleges may want to review a number of considerations as develop their policies, including: “(1) the logistics of establishing and utilizing a preferred name, (2) matters requiring the use of a legal name, and (3) identifying instances that may warrant rejecting a student’s request to use a preferred name.” Read the full article.

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      • July 30, 2021

        Kate Dion and Seth Orkand Present Webinar on Reopening College Campuses

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          Kate Dion and Seth Orkand Present Webinar on Reopening College Campuses

          Education industry team chair Kathleen E. Dion and member Seth  B. Orkand co-presented the R+C-hosted education webinar, "A Discussion on Reopening Campuses for the Fall Semester" on July 29, 2021. Joined by Meredith Ainbinder, Vice President and General Counsel at Emerson College and Destinee Waiters, Associate General Counsel at Suffolk University, the roundtable panel addressed numerous challenges that in-house counsel may face with students returning to campus in the fall and how members of the community may respond. Topics covered included whether or not policies on vaccines should be applied equitably to faculty and staff; if professors may be allowed to require masks in their classes; how schools will handle non-compliance with COVID-related rules and requirements; and addressing student mental health concerns with the addition of non-instructional wellness days.

      • August 26, 2020

        Kate Dion Quoted in Wall Street Journal Article on COVID-19 Health Information Privacy in Higher Education

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          Kate Dion Quoted in Wall Street Journal Article on COVID-19 Health Information Privacy in Higher Education

          Education Industry Team Chair Kathleen E. Dion was quoted in the article “Colleges Weigh Transparency Versus Privacy When It Comes to Covid-19 Data,” published in the Wall Street Journal on August 25, 2020. The article examines the “tug of war” between providing information and protecting identities, which creates a patchwork of reporting that some students say puts their health at risk. Kate says that because the law gives universities wide latitude for interpretation, schools disagree on what information is identifiable and who are appropriate parties. As a result, some schools appear to be changing their interpretations of the law as coronavirus cases spread. “’The policy that schools have really needs to take into account that there are individual facts and circumstances to each report of a Covid-19 outbreak,’ she said, pointing to the student population and relationships with local health departments.” Read the article.

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      • 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
      • November 8, 2017

        Kate Dion Speaks at Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section CLE Seminar

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          Kate Dion Speaks at Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section CLE Seminar

          Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion was among the panelists for "Defending Campus Sexual Assault Cases," a CLE seminar presented by the Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS). Hosted at the CBA Law Center in New Britain, Connecticut on October 30, 2017, the program covered how university and state investigations impact one another, the state’s considerations in handling campus sex assault cases, and how a defense attorney can balance the client’s needs to be protected criminally while preserving his or her ability to stay in school. Ms. Dion currently serves as co-chair of the CBA-YLS Education Committee.

      • October 13, 2017

        Kathleen Porter and Kate Dion Address Student Speech and Social Media at AICUM Symposium

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          Kathleen Porter and Kate Dion Address Student Speech and Social Media at AICUM Symposium

          Business Transactions Group lawyer Kathleen M. Porter and Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion presented on "Student Speech on Social Media: From Cyberbullying to Campus Protests" at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (AICUM) Fall Symposium 2017 on October 6 at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. Ms. Porter and Ms. Dion discussed the use of policies by colleges and universities for controlling or blocking anonymous social media platforms, maintaining fair and risk-free discipline processes, and tailoring specific steps to investigate cyberbullying. They also presented on the challenges associated with each stage of inviting a controversial guest speaker to a college campus, including how to solicit and review invitations as well as how to maintain a spirited academic atmosphere while also protecting the students’ right to assemble. The session also included a discussion of investigating handbook policy violations in these areas fairly and independently. Andrew W. Monthey assisted with and attended the presentation. 

      • September 27, 2017

        Ted Tucci, Kate Dion, and Conor Duffy Co-author Article Published in AHLA Connections

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          Ted Tucci, Kate Dion, and Conor Duffy Co-author Article Published in AHLA Connections

          Business Litigation Group lawyers Theodore J. Tucci and Kathleen E. Dion and Health Law Group lawyer Conor O. Duffy co-wrote the article "Escobar Materiality Standard for Implied False Certification Claims Poses Acute FCA Compliance Challenge," published in the September 2017 issue of AHLA Connections, the member magazine for the American Health Lawyers Association (AHLA). The article focuses on the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2016 decision to uphold the validity, at least in some circumstances, of the “implied false certification” theory of liability under the False Claims Act (FCA), and the continued disagreement over the meaning and impact of Universal Health Services, Inc. v. United States ex rel. Escobar. Click here to view the entire article.

          Copyright 2017, American Health Lawyers Association, Washington, DC. Reprint permission granted.

        • View article
      • June 9, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Discuss Health Care Fraud Investigations

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Discuss Health Care Fraud Investigations

          Business Litigation Group lawyers Edward J. Heath and Kathleen E. Dion presented the webinar "Responding to Health Care Fraud Investigations—What to Do When the Government Knocks" on June 5, 2017. The presentation focused on techniques for compliance officers, managers, and in-house counsel to use when government agents appear at their offices demanding information, documents, equipment, access to employees, and testimony. Additionally, they educated attendees on the various tools available to the government in the course of investigation and enforcement activities, such as administrative subpoenas, grand jury subpoenas, and search warrants. 

      • March 31, 2017

        Business Litigation Lawyers Participate in Essentials of Federal Practice at CBA-YLS Session

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          Business Litigation Lawyers Participate in Essentials of Federal Practice at CBA-YLS Session

          A Robinson+Cole Business Litigation Group lawyer was a speaker, along with the Honorable Stefan R. Underhill of the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, for "The Essentials of Federal Practice," a primer for lawyers new to federal civil litigation. Presented on March 21, 2017, in New Britain, Connecticut, this CLE program was sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section (CBA-YLS). Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion, co-chair of the YLS Federal Practice Section, moderated the program. The session provided an overview of issues that arise from the beginning to the end of a lawsuit, covering jurisdiction, venue, and pleading standards as well as discovery motion practice, trials, and appeals.

      • October 20, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at AICUM Fall Symposium 2016

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at AICUM Fall Symposium 2016

          Labor and Employment Group lawyer Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion presented at the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) Fall Symposium on October 14, 2016, at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. The session, "Scandal on Campus and the Modern Day Investigation: Harassment, Sexting, and Avoiding the 'Rabbit Hole,'" covered what today's workplace scandal looks like, the impact of technology on investigations, how to determine when an employer must investigate a complaint, and how to craft a witness interview strategy and investigation scope. Click here for the PowerPoint. AICUM provides a public voice on key policy matters that concern private independent colleges and universities in Massachusetts. 

      • March 8, 2016

        Land Use Lawyers Negotiate Settlement Allowing Soup Kitchen to Remain Open

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          Land Use Lawyers Negotiate Settlement Allowing Soup Kitchen to Remain Open

          For more than three years, land use lawyers Brian R. Smith and Evan J. Seeman, on a pro bono basis, have represented St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, Inc., and The St. Joseph's Polish Roman Catholic Congregation. St. Vincent, a ministry of the Congregation, operates a soup kitchen and food pantry at the site of a former parochial school in Norwich, Connecticut. After local administrative hearings and three federal lawsuits, including a successful trip to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, Mr. Smith and Mr. Seeman negotiated a favorable settlement that will allow St. Vincent to continue to remain open to provide food, shelter, and religion to hundreds of individuals daily. The federal lawsuits challenged the City of Norwich's actions denying a special permit and use variance to allow St. Vincent to continue to operate, as well as notices of violation that had been issued by the City. Under the settlement, the City will issue a special permit to St. Vincent and the Congregation to ensure that the poor and needy receive necessary food and care. Other lawyers who have assisted in this matter include Kathleen E. Dion, Sorell E. Negro, Kelly Frye Barnett, and Jonathan H. Schaefer.

          Click here to view an article about the settlement in The Bulletin.


           

      • February 3, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at Annual Central Massachusetts Health Care Symposium

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at Annual Central Massachusetts Health Care Symposium

          Business litigation lawyers Kathleen E. Dion and Kathryn M. Rattigan presented at the Massachusetts Bar Association's Third Annual Central Massachusetts Health Care Symposium on February 10, 2016, at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. Along with co-presenters Lorianne M. Sainsbury-Wong of Health Law Advocates in Boston, David Harlow of The Harlow Group in Newton, and Roy J. Watson of the Watson Law Offices in Cambridge, Ms. Dion and Ms. Rattigan discussed how to navigate substantive legal development in health law practices. Specifically, the topics included digital health, HIPAA hot topics, charitable hospital duties under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obama Care) and the U.S. Tax Code, and corporate compliance strategies for health care organizations.

      • November 12, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Hosts Domestic Violence Restraining Order Program for Lawyers

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          Robinson+Cole Hosts Domestic Violence Restraining Order Program for Lawyers

          Robinson+Cole hosted a groundbreaking training session on November 2, 2015, for more than 35 lawyers interested in representing victims of domestic violence seeking restraining orders (orders from relief from abuse) in Connecticut. The program's goal was to encourage lawyers at other firms to model their own pro bono programs after Robinson+Cole's successful Domestic Violence Restraining Order Program. The training featured presentations by the Honorable Elizabeth A. Bozzuto of the Connecticut Superior Court, the Greater Hartford Legal Aid, the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and Robinson+Cole. The Connecticut Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section co-sponsored the program. Attendees included lawyers from other major law firms, in-house corporate counsel, and Judicial Branch Court Operations.

          Robinson+Cole lawyers in attendance included Kelly Frye Barnett, Edward J. Heath, Eric D. Daniels, Jenna L. Veronneau, J. Tyler Butts, Jessica A. R. Hamilton, Andrew A. DePeau, Jonathan E. Small, Kathleen E. Dion, James R. Nault, Amanda E. Gordon, Catrina Cartegena Kohn, and Frank F. Coulom Jr.

      • October 28, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Publish Articles in Connecticut Law Tribune's Connecticut Supreme Court Section

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Publish Articles in Connecticut Law Tribune's Connecticut Supreme Court Section

          Business litigation lawyers Jeffrey J. White and Kathleen E. Dion, land use lawyer Dwight H. Merriam, and environmental and utilities lawyer Emilee Mooney Scott wrote articles for the 2015 Supreme Court Year in Review, a special section of the Connecticut Law Tribune, published on September 14, 2015.

          In the article "Administrative Procedures Are Focus of Insurance Case," co-authors Mr. White and Ms. Dion discuss Connecticut Supreme Court decisions regarding the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, the Uniform Partnership Act, and the Fair Employment Practices Act, all of which affect the business community. For a detailed analysis, please click here to view the article.

          In the article "Nibbling Around the Edges of Perennial Issues," Mr. Merriam writes that, although there were some important land use cases in the Supreme Court this year, some interesting ones nibbled "around the edges of several perennial issues." These key cases addressed aggrievement questions and zoning variances. For the full article, please click here.

          In the article "Rulings Put Limits on State Regulators and Intervenors," Ms. Scott analyzes two cases that interpret the extent of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's (DEEP) authority and the extent of intervention under Connecticut's Environmental Protection Act. Tilcon Connecticut v. Commission of Environmental Protection concerns DEEP's authority and Hunter Ridge v. Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Newtown addresses intervention under Connecticut's Environmental Protection Act. For her full interpretation, click here to see the article.

      • September 1, 2015

        Three Hartford Office Lawyers Elected to Executive Committee of CBA's YLS

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          Three Hartford Office Lawyers Elected to Executive Committee of CBA's YLS

          Business litigation lawyers Kathleen E. Dion and Amanda E. Gordon and insurance litigation lawyer J. Tyler Butts were elected to the Connecticut Bar Association's (CBA) Executive Committee of the Young Lawyers Section (YLS). The goals of the YLS are to promote justice, encourage public service, and promote diversity and education of young lawyers and newly admitted practitioners. The section, made up of nearly 2,400 members, organizes and sponsors continuing legal education and professional development sessions for both junior and senior members of the CBA.

          All three lawyers hold leadership positions in the CBA's YLS. Ms. Dion co-chairs the Consumer Law Section, Ms. Gordon co-chairs the Health Law Section, and Mr. Butts co-chairs the Professional Responsibility Committee.

      • December 2, 2014

        Kate Dion Presents to Connecticut Chapter of HFMA

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          Kate Dion Presents to Connecticut Chapter of HFMA

          Business litigation lawyer Kathleen E. Dion spoke at the Annual Healthcare Leaders Legal Update for the Connecticut Chapter of the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) on November 5, 2014, at the Quinnipiac School of Law. The presentation, "Responding to the Breaking Crisis: Conducting Internal Investigations in Healthcare Organizations," provided an overview on establishing immediate measures, determining the investigators and conducting an internal investigation, structuring the scope of the investigation, implementing remedial measures, and assessing the need to disclose the investigation results to the government.

          Ms. Dion focuses on all aspects of civil and criminal litigation, with particular emphasis on health care, criminal defense, trade regulation and antitrust, tax, and white-collar crime.

      • August 18, 2014

        Hartford Lawyers Present Education Law Program to UHart Students

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          Hartford Lawyers Present Education Law Program to UHart Students

          Hartford lawyers Gregory R. Faulkner, Edward J. Heath, Nicole H. Najam, and Kathleen E. Dion presented to a class of University of Hartford doctoral students on July 30, 2014. The students are candidates in the university's Doctorate in Education Leadership program. The session's purpose was to provide an overview of higher education law, including hot topics and possible pitfalls. The class, "Education Law: When to Call Outside Counsel," covered a variety of legal issues that the students may confront in administering at institutions of higher learning. Topics ranged from contract drafting and negotiating to investigations and employment. Please click here to view the session's outline.

      • May 2, 2013

        Hartford Lawyers Lend Hand to Homeless Individuals Seeking Job Skills

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          Hartford Lawyers Lend Hand to Homeless Individuals Seeking Job Skills

          Robinson+Cole lawyers J. C. David Hadden, Edward J. Heath, and Kathleen E. Dion, along with lawyers from Greater Hartford Legal Aid, are co-teaching the class Basic Legal Rights to mostly homeless adults striving to gain job skills and confidence. This class, presented in four sessions during the first two weeks in May at the Charter Oak Cultural Center in Hartford, covers the criminal justice system, civil courts, government benefits, family law, and housing law. It is part of a series of free, twice-a-week workshops on a range of subjects, including videography, journalism, creative writing, leadership, and using social media. The Hartford Courant article "Hartford Classes Give Skills, Confidence to Those with History of Homelessness" reports on the positive results of this program.
      • January 23, 2013

        Connecticut Law Tribune quotes Robinson & Cole's Pro Bono Work

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          Connecticut Law Tribune quotes Robinson & Cole's Pro Bono Work

          Robinson & Cole's restraining order program is referenced in a Connecticut Law Tribune article by Chase T. Rogers, chief justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court, and Superior Court Judge William H. Bright Jr., chair of the Judicial Branch's Pro Bono Committee. The article, “Forecast 2013: Pro Bono Initiatives Remain On Front Burner,” discusses ways to meet pro bono challenges in 2013. Each Monday since August 2012, at least two Robinson & Cole lawyers have been stationed at the Superior Court in Middletown to assist victims of domestic violence obtain or preserve court-issued restraining orders to protect themselves and their families. The firm lawyers involved in this considerable effort include Edward J. Heath, Patrick M. Birney, Andrea Donovan Napp, Benjamin B. Adams, J. Tyler Butts, Kathleen E. Dion, Amanda E. Gordon, and Nicolas F. Perry. They have been joined by lawyers from Northeast Utilities, including Honor Heath and Janet Helmke-Elmore.

      R+C News Releases

      • November 5, 2019

        Kate Dion Honored by Western New England University School of Law

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          Kate Dion Honored by Western New England University School of Law

          Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion was presented with the Ascending Alumni Award and the Distinguished Law Review Alumni Award from Western New England University (WNE) School of Law during the Annual Alumni Recognition Reception in Springfield, Massachusetts on October 4, 2019. The Ascending Alumni Award spotlights the achievements of new alumni who graduated with the past 10 years from the School of Law. Honorees have shown leadership in their chosen field and/or in the community, and they stand out from their peers in the drive and potential they have shown. The Distinguished Law Review Alumni Award is presented annually to a Law Review alumnus/na in recognition of outstanding professional accomplishments and/or contributions to the Western New England University School of Law. Read more and view photos 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
      • December 5, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners

      • November 12, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Staff Named to CCADV’s First 100 Plus Class of 2018

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers and Staff Named to CCADV’s First 100 Plus Class of 2018

          The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) named Robinson+Cole lawyers Kelly Frye Barnett, Emily C. Deans, Kathleen E. Dion, Rachel V. Kushel, and Nicole S. Mulé and paralegal Albina Yaikbaeva to its First 100 Plus Class of 2018 during the organization’s 8th Annual Breakfast & Awards Ceremony on November 9, 2018 at the Hartford Marriott Downtown in Hartford, Connecticut.

          Although both men and women have been recognized in years past, the First 100 Plus Class of 2018 was limited to women in celebration of CCADV’s 40th Anniversary and Year of the Woman. This year’s class is comprised of women who have demonstrated leadership and commitment to improving the lives of domestic violence survivors throughout Connecticut. Read more and view a photo in the press release.

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      • June 28, 2018

        Kate Dion Named to BusinessWest’s “40 Under Forty”

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          Kate Dion Named to BusinessWest’s “40 Under Forty”

          BusinessWest recognized Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathleen E. Dion as a “40 Under Forty” winner during the publication’s annual gala event on June 21, 2018 at The Log Cabin in Holyoke, Massachusetts. BusinessWest's 40 Under Forty recognizes 40 young business and civic leaders in Western Mass. who demonstrate excellence within their profession, a commitment to giving back to the community, dedication to family and work/life balance, and a focus on what else they do in each of those realms. This year’s recipients were chosen from more 180 unique nominations and hail from a host of different industries. Read more in the press release.

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      • November 27, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Promotes Eight Lawyers to Counsel

      • 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
      • October 6, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Named “New Leaders in the Law” by the Connecticut Law Tribune

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Named “New Leaders in the Law” by the Connecticut Law Tribune

          The Connecticut Law Tribune has recognized Robinson+Cole lawyers Stephen O. Clancy, Pamela H. Del Negro, and Kathleen E. Dion as New Leaders in the Law. They were honored at an awards dinner on October 3 at The Bond Ballroom in Hartford. 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 in performing pro bono work or community service in a volunteer capacity.

          Read more and view a photo in the press release.

        • View article
      • June 13, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Appointed to Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section Leadership Roles

      • 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
      • September 4, 2015

        Kathleen E. Dion Lawyer Elected to KNOX Board of Directors

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          Kathleen E. Dion Lawyer Elected to KNOX Board of Directors

          Robinson+Cole litigation lawyer Kathleen E. Dion has been elected to the KNOX Board of Directors. Using horticulture as a catalyst for community engagement, KNOX provides leadership and forges partnerships between residents, businesses, and the government to build stronger, greener, healthier, and more beautiful neighborhoods in Hartford. Learn more in the news release.

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      • November 7, 2013

        Connecticut Legal Services Honors Robinson & Cole for Pro Bono Domestic Violence Restraining Order Program

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          Connecticut Legal Services Honors Robinson & Cole for Pro Bono Domestic Violence Restraining Order Program

          Connecticut Legal Services honored Robinson & Cole at its annual meeting on October 29, 2013, for the firm's Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) Program. The recognition was presented on behalf of the board, staff, and clients of Connecticut Legal Services, Inc. to Robinson & Cole for its "innovative and successful efforts to create the Pro Bono Restraining Order Project benefitting victims of domestic violence who seek relief from the Middletown Court." The efforts of 11 Robinson & Cole lawyers, who have provided over 550 hours of pro bono service through the DVRO Program, have made the following legal representation possible: 50 engagements initiated, 17 ex parte applications and affidavits completed, and 33 evidentiary hearings held.
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      • June 21, 2013

        Local Organizations Recognize Robinson & Cole’s Pro Bono Service

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          Local Organizations Recognize Robinson & Cole’s Pro Bono Service

          Robinson & Cole cultivates a culture of pro bono service among its lawyers through the leadership of Edward J. Heath, pro bono partner and chair of the firm's Pro Bono Committee, evident by recent honors numerous lawyers have received. Mr. Heath received the Connecticut Law Tribune's Pro Bono award, Alaine C. Doolan received the Connecticut Bar Association's Honorable Anthony V. DeMayo Pro Bono Award, and 33 lawyers made the CBA's 2012 Pro Bono Honor Roll.

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      • May 22, 2013

        Robinson & Cole Lawyers Provide Pro Bono Support to Norwich Soup Kitchen

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          Robinson & Cole Lawyers Provide Pro Bono Support to Norwich Soup Kitchen

          Robinson & Cole lawyers Timothy D. Bates, Brian R. Smith, Evan J. Seeman, Kathleen E. Dion, and Jonathan H. Schaefer, along with land use analyst Linnea C. McCaffrey, are collaborating to provide pro bono assistance to St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, Inc., in Connecticut, a ministry of the Roman Catholic Diocese that provides services to the needy in Norwich through its soup kitchen and food pantry programs. The firm has performed this work on a modified pro bono basis; however, it is requesting that attorneys' fees be awarded should it be successful.

          The firm's representation of St. Vincent concerns its ability to exercise freely its religion to serve the needy on a particular site. The firm has brought an appeal regarding the denial of a special permit to the Second Circuit, is challenging an enforcement order in the U.S. District Court, and, based on the denial of a variance on May 14, 2013, is preparing another lawsuit to be filed in the District Court. The cases challenge the City of Norwich's actions under the First Amendment and the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA). An overwhelming number of cases in Connecticut's low-income bracket are not being represented in court, bringing to light a very real concern about this impact on justice. Robinson & Cole is part of a pro bono movement to represent those who do not have access to justice. These cases, which started at the local level with planning and zoning issues before moving into federal court, are presently Robinson & Cole's largest pro bono cases.

          Tim Bates was quoted in the article "Soup kitchen in Norwich gets $100,000 in donated legal help," published in the New London Day on April 23, 2013.

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      • April 6, 2011

        Robinson & Cole Welcomes 10 New Attorneys

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          Robinson & Cole Welcomes 10 New Attorneys

          Robinson & Cole LLP is pleased to announce that 10 attorneys joined the firm. They add a depth and breadth of experience to groups across the firm's practice sections.
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    • Legal Updates/Newsletters

      Legal Updates/Newsletters

      "Federal Court Rules Tax-Exempt Independent Schools Must Comply with Title IX" co-authored with Sabrina M. Galli and Seth B. Orkand (8/11/2022)

      "Federal Court Suggests Title IX Applies to Private Schools Receiving PPP Loans" co-authored with Seth B. Orkand, Lauren A. Elia and Theresa Lane (7/18/22)

      "Department of Education Proposes Revamping Title IX Sexual Harassment Regulations" co-authored with Seth B. Orkand, Lauren A. Elia and Theresa Lane (6/28/22)

      "OCR Provides Roadmap of Its Review of Title IX Regulations" co-authored with Seth B. Orkand (4/9/2021)

      "President Directs Department of Education to Begin Dismantling Trump-Era Title IX Sexual Misconduct Regulations" co-authored with Seth B. Orkand (3/8/21)

      "Independent Schools and PPP Loans: Are You In Compliance With Title IX?" co-authored with Jenna M. Scoville (11/18/2020)

      "Second Circuit Delineates Factors for Waiving Supersedes Bond Requirement" published in American Bar Association TIPS Newsletter (Fall 2015)

      "Data Privacy + Security Insider" co-authored with Kathryn M. Rattigan, Linn F. Freedman and Andrea Donovan Napp (04/02/2015)