Megan Baroni Participates in ABA SEER Podcast Series on Microplastics

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan Baroni appeared on the ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (SEER) podcast series, Environmental Law Explored. Posted on March 30, 2023, the episode is the eighth and final in the podcast’s “Environmental Laws and Regulations for Emerging Microplastics Concerns Series.” Megan and fellow guest Sarah Morath, Associate Professor at Wake Forest Law, discuss future litigation trends in the microplastics realm. Megan is a member of SEER. Listen to the podcast.

Megan Baroni Authors EHS Today Article on OSHA Expanding the Use of Instance-by-Instance Penalties

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan Baroni authored the article, “OSHA to Expand the Use of Instance-by-Instance Penalties,” published in EHS Today on March 31, 2023. In the article, Megan discusses OSHA’s new policy expanding penalties for instance-by-instance (IBI) citations. Reinforcing OSHA’s stated commitment to increased enforcement in the years ahead, these new penalties have the potential to significantly increase the monetary penalty amounts associated with certain violations. Under the new policy, which went into effect on March 27, the IBI policy will now apply to high-gravity serious violations in areas including falls, respiratory protection, and permit required confined space. The new IBI policy will also apply to other-than-serious recordkeeping violations. Employers with certain types of recordkeeping violations could find themselves subject to significant penalties for failures to record or inaccuracies in the records. Read the article. 

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

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

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

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author IndustryWeek article on EPA Power Plant Ruling From SCOTUS

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “EPA Power Plant Ruling Could Have Broader Effects for Industry,” published in IndustryWeek on July 8, 2022. The article focuses on the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency, where the Supreme Court held that the EPA exceeded its authority under the Clean Air Act in its attempt to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. While the immediate impact of the decision is fairly limited, the Supreme Court’s rationale has the potential to impact federal agency authority across a broad range of sectors. The larger outcome of West Virginia v. EPA could be an expansion of cases that seek to invalidate agency actions based on the major questions doctrine. Read the article.

Megan Baroni Elected to New Canaan Nature Center Board

Megan Baroni, a member of the Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group, has been elected to the Board of Trustees of the New Canaan Nature Center. Megan's three-year term was affirmed at the Center's Annual Meeting in June and became effective on July 1, 2022. The mission of the Nature Center is to serve as “an environmental education organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to respect, protect and enjoy the world of nature.” The Center’s 40-acre site provides for a wide range of activities, including community and family, youth, adult, and urban outreach programs.

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author Construction Executive Article on the Hazards of OSHA’s Multi-Employer Policy

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “OSHA’s Multi-Employer Policy Continues to Ensnare the Construction Industry” published in Construction Executive’s “CE This Week” newsletter on June 28, 2022. The article focuses on OSHA’s approach to jobsites where more than one employer could be cited for the same hazardous condition that violates an OSHA standard. Read the article.

Megan Baroni Article Recognized by JD Supra as Among “Top” of 2021

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Partner, Megan Baroni, authored the article “Coca-Cola Sued for Deceptive Sustainability Claims,” which was named one of JD Supra’s most popular stories in the Food and Beverage category for all of 2021. The story, initially posted to the Manufacturing Law Blog last June, highlights a lawsuit brought against Coca-Cola, “the world’s leading plastic waste producer,” by Earth Island Institute, a not-for-profit environmental organization. The suit alleges that Coca-Cola is deceiving the public by marketing itself as sustainable and environmentally-friendly, while “polluting more than any other beverage company and actively working to prevent effective recycling measures in the U.S.” Read Megan’s full article here.

Megan Baroni Discusses Developing Interdisciplinary Blog Content on LexBlog Podcast

Megan Baroni, a partner in the firm’s Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group, was a featured interview guest in the February 24, 2022 episode of the LexBlog podcast “This Week in Legal Blogging,” hosted by Bob Ambrogi. Megan spoke about the practice of dedicating useful content to the manufacturing sector, the power of an interdisciplinary blog to cater to a niche clientele, and the origin of Robinson+Cole’s Manufacturing Law blog. Listen to the podcast here. 

Megan Baroni Co-Authors IndustryWeek Article on Microplastics

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni co-authored the article, “Microplastics Are in the News, and Manufacturers Are Seeing Lawsuits,” published on January 20, 2022 in IndustryWeek. Megan co-authored the article with colleagues Rachel Henke and Catie Boston of environmental consulting and management firm Roux. The article points out that litigation is on the rise as microplastics are being found increasingly throughout the environment. Microplastics, either manufactured directly or formed as plastics wear through use or breakdown in landfills, can enter the environment in a variety of ways. Cases being filed under federal environmental law, state consumer protection laws, as well as common law are having real impacts on industries that produce and use plastics. In addition, California is leading the way in developing microplastics regulations that may ultimately impact producers and users of plastics. 

Read the full article here. 

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author CE This Week Article on The Current Status of OSHA’s COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “OSHA’s COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard Is in Flux,” published in CE This Week on November 15, 2021. The article focuses on the current status of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS), halted by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit motion to stay, which ordered that no further steps to implement or enforce the ETS be taken. At this time, OSHA has suspended activities related to the ETS, pending future developments in ongoing litigation. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author Construction Executive Article on COVID-19 and OSHA Inspections

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “OSHA Inspections in a Time of COVID-19” published in Construction Executive on May 26, 2021. The article focuses on how employer best practices to follow during an OSHA inspection are complicated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular emphasis on the construction industry. Megan and Jon offer insight on OSHA’s Updated Interim Enforcement Response Plan and National Emphasis Program, Multi-Employer Citation Policy, and general whistleblower protections as well as implementing a COVID-19 prevention program. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni, Chris Eddy, Peter Knight and Jon Schaefer Author ISHN Article on OSHA Inspections During COVID-19

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni, Christopher Y. Eddy, Peter R. Knight and Jonathan H. Schaefer authored the article “COVID-19 and its Impact on the OSHA Inspection Process” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on May 27, 2021. Taking into consideration how COVID-19 has brought significant changes to OSHA’s inspection and enforcement focus, the article offers best practices for managing facility inspections, both generally and with specific references to COVID considerations. Read the article.

Megan Baroni, Chris Eddy, Peter Knight and Jon Schaefer Author EHS Today Article on Combustible Dust and OSHA Inspections

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni, Christopher Y. Eddy, Peter R. Knight and Jonathan H. Schaefer authored the article “Combustible Dust and OSHA Inspections” published in EHS Today (environmental, health and safety ) on April 19, 2021. The article focuses on OSHA’s Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program, which continues to be an area of focus and enforcement. While OSHA does not have its own combustible dust standard, the Administration has said it will rely on the General Duty Clause and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for enforcement. Guidelines to prepare for and handle OSHA inspections are in some cases universal, but when combustible dust may be a factor, there are some unique considerations for employers to be mindful of. Megan, Chris, Peter and Jon cover the actions employers can take before, during, and after an inspection to mitigate the potential for a citation. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni, Chris Eddy, Peter Knight and Jon Schaefer Author ISHN Article on Combustible Dust

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni, Christopher Y. Eddy, Peter R. Knight and Jonathan H. Schaefer authored the article "Avoiding Dust- Ups with OSHA over NFPA 652 Compliance" published in the March issue of ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News). The article offers an update on OSHA's Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program, which was launched in 2008 and continues to be an area of focus and enforcement. "While no OSHA standard directly addresses combustible dust, this has not hindered OSHA enforcement. Instead, OSHA has relied on the General Duty Clause and reference to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards when citing employers for combustible dust hazards." Under NFPA 652 facilities were required to complete an initial dust hazard analysis by September 7, 2020. Megan, Chris, Peter and Jon also briefly cover the applicable NFPA standards and OSHA’s compliance guidance. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni, Chris Eddy, Peter Knight and Jon Schaefer Author ISHN Article on Substantial Continuity Test

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni, Christopher Y. Eddy, Peter R. Knight and Jonathan H. Schaefer authored the article “Breaking the chain of “substantial continuity” — Tenth Circuit clarifies test for repeat OSHA violations” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on February 10, 2021. The Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals in Sec’y of Labor v. Wynnewood Refining Co. recently evaluated the applicability of the substantial continuity test in connection with an OSHA citation that included several repeat violations. The article offers background on the important role that repeat violations play in OSHA citations, how the substantial continuity test has been applied in determining whether a current company should be held liable for repeat citations based on citations from a prior company, and how the Tenth Circuit addressed that question in Wynnewood Refining. Read the full article.

Capital Markets + Securities Team Represents GrowGeneration Corp. in Significant Transactions

Robinson+Cole’s Capital Markets and Securities Team (the Team) was pleased to represent GrowGeneration Corp. (GrowGen), an owner and operator of a network of specialty hydroponic gardening stores, in two recent transactions. On December 11, 2020, GrowGen completed its $150 million follow-on public offering of shares of common stock at $30 per share. GrowGen intends to use those net proceeds primarily to expand its network of stores through growth and acquisitions. The Team advising on the stock offering was led by Team Chair, Mitchell L. Lampert, and included Shant H. Chalian, Frank W. Eucalitto, and Adam T. Tamzoke. Read more.

The Team also was pleased to represent GrowGen in connection with its acquisition of Canopy Crop Management, an industry-leading silicic acid company that sells silicic acid-enriched fertilizers, which was announced on December 23, 2020. Led by Team Chair Mitchell Lampert, Robinson+Cole’s Megan E. Baroni, Frank Eucalitto, Michael J. Kearney, Jr., Kayla C. O'Leary Jacqueline Pennino Scheib and Emilee Mooney Scott advised GrowGen on the transaction. Read more.

Megan Baroni, Chris Eddy, Peter Knight and Jon Schaefer Author ISHN Article on OSHA’s COVID-19 Response

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni, Christopher Y. Eddy, Peter R. Knight and Jonathan H. Schaefer authored the article “COVID-19 and OSHA: Where we started and where we are now” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on January 7, 2021. The article gives a brief summary of OSHA’s response to COVID-19 to date and where enforcement measures currently stand. The piece also examines COVID-19 enforcement trends and offers some insight on changes and challenges for employers in 2021.  Read the full article.

Megan Baroni, Matt Miklave, Jon Schaefer and Emily Zaklukiewicz Author Article on OSHA Recordkeeping and Reporting Obligations Published in ISHN

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer and Labor and Employment Group lawyers Matthew T. Miklave and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “OSHA citations serve as reminder to employers about recordkeeping and reporting obligations” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on December 10, 2020. The article focuses on the importance of employers adhering to the Office of Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) recordkeeping and reporting requirements as failure to comply may result in significant penalties. “[S]ince the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, [OSHA] has cited 144 establishments for COVID-19-related violations, totaling over two million dollars in penalties.” The piece goes on to cover recordkeeping obligations, reporting obligations, reporting hospitalizations, reporting fatalities, and determining “work-related” illness as it pertains to COVID-19. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni, Matt Miklave, Jon Schaefer and Emily Zaklukiewicz Author Article on OSHA Recordkeeping and Reporting Obligations Published in ISHN

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer and Labor and Employment Group lawyers Matthew T. Miklave and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “OSHA citations serve as reminder to employers about recordkeeping and reporting obligations” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on December 10, 2020. The article focuses on the importance of employers adhering to the Office of Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) recordkeeping and reporting requirements as failure to comply may result in significant penalties. “[S]ince the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, [OSHA] has cited 144 establishments for COVID-19-related violations, totaling over two million dollars in penalties.” The piece goes on to cover recordkeeping obligations, reporting obligations, reporting hospitalizations, reporting fatalities, and determining “work-related” illness as it pertains to COVID-19. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author Article on the First State COVID-19 OSHA Standard Published in ISHN

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “Virginia issues first COVID-19 OSHA Standard,” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on August 5, 2020. Originally posted on R+C’s Manufacturing Law Blog, the piece covers the Commonwealth of Virginia's recent passing of the first COVID-19 OSHA standard, which "codifies, and in some cases exceeds, guidance from OSHA and the Center for Disease Control." The article also acknowledges that "Virginia’s actions may be a signal to the many other 'state-plan' states to do the same." Read the full article.

Bob Melvin, Emilee Mooney Scott and Megan Baroni Author PFAS Article Published in InFlow-Line Magazine

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Robert S. Melvin, Emilee Mooney Scott, and Megan E. Baroni co-authored the article “PFAS Background and Updates for the Water Industry,” published in the Winter 2019/2020 edition of InFlow-Line magazine, the quarterly publication of the Connecticut Section of the American Water Works (CTAWWA) and the Connecticut Water Works Associations (CWWA). The feature article is a follow up to presentations given by the lawyers on the status of regulatory initiatives and litigation concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) issues during the CTAWWA/CWWA 2019 Fall Conference. Bob provided an overview on PFAS concerns, while Emilee shared PFAS regulatory updates and related considerations and Megan covered PFAS litigation developments. The article also included a PFAS historic and technical background provided by GZA GeoEnvironmental, who co-presented the session with R+C at the fall conference. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni Authors 2020 EHS Outlook for Manufacturers Published in EHS Today

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni authored the article “Outlook 2020: What EHS Managers in Manufacturing Need to Know,” published by EHS Today on February 21, 2020. Re-published from the firm’s Manufacturing Law Blog, the piece offers a snapshot of what environmental, health, and safety issues are expected to confront manufacturers in 2020. The issues covered include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), OSHA inspection weighting, and the EPA’s focus on air and water. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni Among the “100 Women Who Inspire Us” Recognized by ABA Section of Litigation

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni was among the “100 Women Who Inspire Us” recognized during the 2019 Women in Litigation Joint CLE Conference held in Chicago, Illinois from November 13-15, 2019. Presented by the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Litigation, the conference commenced the Section’s year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, which guarantees and protects women’s constitutional right to vote. The event highlighted women successfully leading in the courtroom, in the judiciary, and in their profession. Megan is co-chair of the Section's Environmental & Energy Litigation Committee. 

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author Industrial Safety & Hygiene News Article on OSHA’s New Fit Testing Protocols

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “OSHA approves new respirator fit testing protocols,” published by Industrial Safety & Hygiene News on October 2, 2019. The piece focuses on the recent final rule issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which approves two additional quantitative fit testing protocols for inclusion in appendix A of the Respiratory Protection Standard. “Both protocols are variations of the original OSHA-approved ambient aerosol [condensation nuclei counter] CNC protocol, but have fewer test exercises, shorter exercise duration, and a more streamlined sampling sequence.” Read the full article.

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author Construction Executive Article on OSHA's Fall Protection Standard

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “Falling Down on the Job: OSHA Violations Carry Tremendous Costs,” published by Construction Executive on September 5, 2019. The piece focuses on the Occupational Safety and Health Act’s (OSHA) fall protection standard for construction, the most cited OSHA violation in the country, which in some recent years, has accounted for more than one-third of workplace deaths. The article covers fall protection requirements, including training; recent notable citations; multi-employer worksite policy; and offers standard fall protection tips. Read the full article.

Megan Baroni and Jon Schaefer Co-Author Article on OSHA's Use of Drones as an Inspection Tool Published by Construction Executive

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Jonathan H. Schaefer co-authored the article “Drones: OSHA's Newest Inspection Tool,” published by Construction Executive on August 4, 2019. The piece covers the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) newly formalized internal drone policy for inspection activities, which could be especially important at constructions sites “where OSHA may feel the use of a drone is safer than sending inspectors into an active site or to significant heights.” The article also encourages employers to prepare an OSHA drone strategy plan before an OSHA inspector arrives and offers some concepts to consider when developing such a strategy. A link to the full article is available on the firm's LinkedIn page. Please be sure to like and/or share the article with specific clients/contacts who may be interested in the content.

Megan Baroni and Peter Knight Present on Preventing Wildlife Crimes in Namibia

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni and Peter R. Knight were among the presenters that participated in a webcast on "Preventing Wildlife Crimes in Namibia: An International Approach to Legislative Reform" on October 23, 2018. Sponsored by the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of State and Local Government Law's International Law Committee, the ABA Section of International Law's Anti-Corruption Committee, and the ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources' International Environmental and Resources Law Committee and Endangered Species Committee, the webcast covered the current state of wildlife poaching in Namibia, legislative reforms to improve enforcement, and next steps to address the organized criminal syndicates who foster the global wildlife products trade. The legislative reform project was undertaken in 2016–17, with contribution from the ABA State and Local Government Law Section, bringing together an international research team from the U.S., the U.K., and Namibia. Peter and Megan oversaw the team in the United States researching legislative options for bolstering enforcement efforts.

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.

Megan Baroni and Jim Ray Present at 2018 Energy & Environment Conference

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyers Megan E. Baroni, Richard M. Fil,  and James P. Ray were among the speakers that presented during a breakout session on "Vapor Intrusion & Spill Response" as part of the 2018 Energy & Environment Conference on May 18, 2018 in Farmington, Connecticut. Presented by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association, the annual conference provides critical updates on state and federal enforcement trends and regulations, energy opportunities for small and large businesses, and the potential impact of proposed state legislation. During the breakout session, Ms. Baroni and Mr. Ray covered the first topic on “Vapor Intrusion: The View from the Courtroom—and the Trenches” and Mr. Fil covered the second topic on “Spill Response & Preparation: What's Not in Your Spill Plan.”

Megan Baroni Quoted in Law360 Article on Proposed EPA Data Rule

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni was quoted in the article “EPA Science Data Rule Could Upend Regulatory Process,” published in Law360 on May 4, 2018. The article covered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent proposal to require publication of certain data from scientific studies that are considered in the regulatory process and said that such a requirement could undermine or disqualify many human health risk analyses because they rely on the anonymity of their subjects, potentially making future regulation less likely as a result.

The EPA has defended the proposed rule, stating that it is aimed at ensuring certain data that form the basis of “pivotal regulatory science” can be independently analyzed and validated. The proposal has raised concerns from environmental and public health groups that such transparency requirements will be barriers to large-scale health studies that promise confidentiality of personal information to their human subjects.

Ms. Baroni said one potential vulnerability is the fact that many environmental statutes call for the best available science to be used in determining the agency’s actions. "Somebody could point to this new rule and say, 'You've put this requirement on these studies that they all be publicly available, but how can you say that's the best available science?'" she said. "Some of the best available science may have confidential data attached to it, and the laws don't say, 'the best available science that I can find on a Google search.'" Read the full article.

Megan Baroni Moderates Program on Interstate Water Disputes at ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources’ 47th Spring Conference

Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni served as the moderator for a program on “Interstate Water Disputes: Water Quality and Water Quantity Meet at the Supreme Court” as part of the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources’ 47th Spring Conference held from April 16 to April 18, 2018 in Orlando, Florida. The program focused on the recent case where Florida alleges that Georgia diverts too much water from the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system, thus, damaging the Apalachicola Bay and the local seafood industry. Georgia, in turn, claims that capping its water use would undermine its economy, including that of the Atlanta metropolitan area and Georgia’s agricultural sector. Ms. Baroni facilitated a discussion that examined the important role the Supreme Court plays in water supply disputes which provided insight into the special master procedure and whether the process adequately addresses water resources disputes between states or calls for alternative methods of resolution.

Robinson+Cole's Namibia Pro Bono Project Featured in ABA Journal

Robinson+Cole's international pro bono project is featured in the article "American attorneys partner to save endangered African wildlife," published in the July 2017 issue of the ABA Journal. Megan E. Baroni, Kelsey A. Cross, Emily C. Deans, Byron D. Flagg, Peter R. Knight, Diana E. Neeves, Sorell E. Negro, and Alec Rubenstein have all contributed to this project. The purpose of their work is to assist the Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) in Namibia by reviewing the country's legislative framework and providing recommendations for strengthening its wildlife crimes legislation and enforcement. Ms. Negro will return to Namibia on July 15 to present the team's research and findings at a workshop with the LAC, government officials, prosecutors, and other stakeholders. Click here to see the article.

Megan Baroni Co-Chairs CLE Joint Seminar for ABA's Section of Litigation

Environmental + Utilities Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni co-chaired the ABA Section of Litigation’s Environmental & Energy, Mass Torts, and Products Liability Litigation Committees' Joint CLE Seminar. Held in Squaw Valley, California, from January 26 to January 28, 2017, this CLE program brought together in-house counsel, government employees, members of the judiciary, and plaintiffs and defense counsel to learn about the latest insights and law developments in the areas of  environmental, energy, mass torts, and products liability. The topics included the recent trend of sanctioning in-house and outside counsel for discovery and other misconduct; the rise of citizen science in supporting environmental and product-related claims; emerging insurance coverage issues in the environmental, energy, mass torts, and products liability areas; and ethical and logistical issues facing plaintiffs' lawyers in the multidistrict litigation program.

Robinson+Cole's Namibia Pro Bono Project Featured in CLT

In the article "Robinson & Cole Project Fights Poaching in Africa," published on December 8, 2016, the Connecticut Law Tribune (CLT) features the firm's unique project to assist Namibia's Legal Assistance Centre in improving the country's wildlife conservation laws and strengthening their enforcement. The Robinson+Cole team, comprising land use and environmental lawyers, is headed by Sorell E. Negro and includes Peter R. Knight, the firm's pro bono partner; Megan E. Baroni; Kelsey A. Cross; Emily C. Deans; and Diana E. Neeves. Click here to view the article.

Megan Baroni and Tavo True-Alcala’s Article on the Clean Water Rule Featured in the ABA Environmental Litigation Committee Newsletter

Environmental lawyer Megan E. Baroni and environmental analyst Tavo True-Alcala co-authored the article entitled "Who Can Rule on the Clean Water Rule?" for Environmental Litigation, a newsletter of the American Bar Association's Environmental Litigation Committee. Published on June 7, 2016, the article summarizes the array of lawsuits that were filed challenging the EPA's latest rulemaking to define jurisdictional waters under the Clean Water Act. Please click here to read the article and find out who is currently ruling on the Clean Water Rule.

Megan Baroni Quoted in Legal NewsLine

Environmental lawyer Megan E. Baroni was quoted in the article "Final OSHA reporting rules require public reporting," published in Legal NewsLine on June 2, 2016. The article discusses the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) set of new rules requiring large companies to annually report workplace injuries and illnesses. Ms. Baroni said that "OSHA regulations already required employers to keep records regarding workplace injuries and illnesses," and now employers will have to provide those records to OSHA annually. She also added that OSHA will use the data to evaluate worker safety on an industry-by-industry basis to forecast trends “so that it can use its enforcement and compliance assistance resources more efficiently.” Click here to see the entire article. 

Peter Knight and Megan Baroni Conduct ABA Roundtable on CERCLA Consent Decrees

Environmental partners Peter R. Knight and Megan E. Baroni hosted a roundtable discussion on CERCLA consent decrees on February 17, 2016. Sponsored by the ABA's Environmental Litigation Committee, the event featured key stakeholders from the closely watched Arizona v. City of Tucson case. In this case, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals addressed the level of deference afforded to a trial court when reviewing a consent decree negotiated by a state agency as opposed to the EPA. The issue is critically important to potentially responsible parties (PRPs) attempting to resolve their liability at a state-led remediation site, particularly early in the case. The roundtable, which Mr. Knight moderated, included lead attorneys for the State of Arizona, the group of settling PRPs, and the nonsettling parties who challenged the de minimis settlements.

Jim Ray and Megan Baroni Co-author Article for Environmental Litigation

James P. Ray and Megan E. Baroni co-wrote the article "Emhart v. United States: Another Failed Attempt to Prove Divisibility under CERCLA." Appearing in the Fall 2015 issue of Environmental Litigation, a publication of the ABA's Section of Litigation, the article examines the Rhode Island District Court decision that found Emhart Industries liable for past and future response costs at the Centredale Manor Restoration Project Superfund Site  in North Providence, Rhode Island. Mr. Ray and Ms. Baroni discuss the litigation, Emhart's liability, and the issue of divisibility. Please click here to read the full  article.

Ms. Baroni, Mr. Ray, and John F. X. Peloso, Jr. represented New England Container Company in the Centredale Manor litigation, which settled its liability in the case just before trial.

Brian Freeman and Megan Baroni Co-author Article for Environmental Litigation

Environmental lawyers Brian C. Freeman and Megan E. Baroni co-wrote the article "Sediment Update: A Summary of the Procedural Status of a Collection of Sites." The article appears in the Summer 2015 issue of Environmental Litigation, a newsletter of the ABA's Section of Litigation. Along with Mark Myers and Drew Pearsall, lawyers from the Seattle, Washington, office of Williams Kastner, Mr. Freeman and Ms. Baroni outline the procedural status of key sediment sites around the country: the Duwamish River, south of Seattle; Portland Harbor, in Portland, Oregon; the Passaic River, in New Jersey; the Woonasquatucket River, as part of the Centredale Manor Restoration Project in North Providence, Rhode Island; and Newtown Creek, the border between Brooklyn and Queens. The authors conclude that sediment sites are among the most complex and costly sites on the National Priorities List. To find out more, click here to view the article.

ABA's Section of Litigation Recognizes Megan Baroni for Outstanding Contributions

Environmental lawyer Megan E. Baroni was honored as an Outstanding Subcommittee Chair for the 2013-2014 bar year by the American Bar Association's (ABA) Section of Litigation in April 2014. Ms. Baroni's recognition reflects her hard work as co-chair of the Environmental Litigation Committee's Water Subcommittee, as well as her role in co-chairing the 2014 ABA Section of Litigation Joint CLE seminar, sponsored in part by the Environmental Litigation Committee. The Environmental Litigation Committee focuses on helping its members develop into better environmental litigators. 

Stamford Lawyer Co-chairs CLE Seminar for ABA's Section of Litigation

Environmental lawyer Megan E. Baroni recently co-chaired the Environmental, Mass Torts & Products Liability Litigation Committees' Joint CLE Seminar. Held in Avon, Colorado, from January 30 to February 1, 2014, this CLE program offered workshops to litigators involved in environmental, mass torts, and products liability matters. Presenters included in-house counsel, government employees, members of the judiciary, university professors and deans, experts, and plaintiffs and defense counsel. Session topics ranged from managing changes in the practice of law, keeping up with the evolving world of technology and its impact on data and communications management, remaining ethical in a technological and global legal marketplace, and identifying trends in litigation and cases that make it to trial, among other issues.

Ms. Baroni is a member of the Environmental Litigation Committee of the ABA's Section of Litigation.

Stamford Lawyer Authors Article for ABA's Environmental Litigation

Environmental lawyer Megan E. Baroni penned the article "How Water Connectivity May Be Used to Expand CWA Jurisdiction" for the Fall 2013 issue of Environmental Litigation, a newsletter published by the Section of Litigation's Environmental Litigation Committee of the American Bar Association (ABA). In the article, Ms. Baroni addresses a recent scientific report released by EPA titled Connectivity of Streams and Wetlands to Downstream Waters: A Review and Synthesis of the Scientific Evidence (Connectivity Report). The Connectivity Report, once finalized, will support a rulemaking by EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers clarifying the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act.

Robinson & Cole Lawyers Featured in Scrap Magazine

Environmental lawyers Earl W. Phillips Jr and Megan E. Baroni co-authored the article "Old Refrigerant Regulations, New Interpretations," published in the July/August publication of Scrap magazine. The article discusses the impact of the EPA raising its compliance expectations regarding refrigerant regulations and how scrap recyclers must do more to meet the requirements. As a result, the authors stress that recyclers need to review their internal processes and document how their policies comply with the Clean Air Act.

Also in this publication is the article "ISRI 2013 Convention Highlights," featuring Mr. Phillips and Mr. Fil, who were presenters at the ISRI Convention and Exposition, held from April 9 to April 13, 2013, in Orlando, Florida. Mr. Phillips describes the three main approaches needed to perform environmental valuations: market approach comparables, cost approach weighing replacement costs, and income approach. Mr. Fil advises sellers to conduct a full audit of their company's physical operations, noting that ambiguity surrounding environment issues is a negative.

Megan Baroni Selected for Leadership Fairfield County Program

Megan Baroni Authors Article Published on ABA Website

Environmental attorney Megan E. Baroni authored the article "Transfer of Polluted Water Not Discharge under CWA," published on the ABA Section of Litigation, Environmental Litigation Committee, website. The article examines the U.S. Supreme Court's reversal of a Ninth Circuit decision concerning the transfer of polluted water from an improved portion of a body of water to and unimproved portion of a body of water.

Environmental Attorney Writes Article on ‘Tri-State’ Water War

Megan Baroni Elected to Botanical Garden Board of Directors

Named after dendrologist Francis A. Bartlett, the Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens in Stamford, Connecticut, is a resource for environmental education for all ages and all levels of interest in preserving and protecting the natural world.

Environmental Attorney Weighs in on Green Standards

To read the full article, click here.

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Named to LFCA Regional Council

Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected Fairfield County Bar Foundation Vice President

2023 Chambers USA Recognizes 22 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in Eight Practice Areas

In its 2023 edition, the legal directory Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized 22 Robinson+Cole lawyers, including one that has been recognized nationwide. In addition, the firm received rankings in eight practice area categories that the publication covers in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

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

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

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

2022 Chambers USA Recognizes 19 Robinson+Cole Lawyers in 10 Practice Areas

In its 2022 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Megan Baroni to Lead Group within American Bar Association Section of Litigation

The American Bar Association Section of Litigation appointed Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Megan E. Baroni as co-chair of its Environmental & Energy Litigation Committee. Ms. Baroni previously served as the co-chair of the Water/Sediment Subcommittee and was recognized by the Section as an “Outstanding Subcommittee Chair” during her term. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Take Part in International Pro Bono Project to Combat Wildlife Crimes in Namibia

With poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking on the rise throughout Africa, threatening endangered species such as elephants and rhinos, Robinson+Cole is taking part in a unique pro bono project to assist Namibia's Legal Assistance Centre in improving the country’s wildlife conservation laws and strengthening their enforcement.

The project is in partnership with DLA Piper, the United Kingdom’s Royal Foundation, and the ABA Section of State and Local Government Law. An international team of lawyers from Robinson+Cole and DLA Piper are working in three phases to (1) analyze Namibia's legislative framework regarding its poaching laws, (2) provide recommendations for legislative reform, and (3) assist with implementing recommended changes adopted by the government.

Consisting of land use and environmental lawyers from Robinson+Cole’s Hartford, Stamford, and Miami offices, the team includes Peter R. Knight, the firm’s pro bono partner; Sorell E. Negro; Megan E. Baroni; Kelsey A. Cross; Emily C. Deans; and Diana E. Neeves.

Read more in the press release.

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.

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of four new partners and the promotion of two associates to counsel, effective January 1, 2016. The new partners are Adam Anderson, Megan E. Baroni, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, and April F. Condon. The new counsel are Alaine C. Doolan and Michele L. Maresca.
"These six lawyers have made significant contributions to our clients and to our firm's successes and it is a pleasure to congratulate them on their well-deserved promotions," said John B. Lynch Jr., managing partner. "They provide exceptional service and value to our clients and offer a deep knowledge in their respective legal fields."

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.

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Named One of Fairfield County Business Journal’s “40 Under 40”

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

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.

Robinson & Cole Lawyers Named “New Leaders in the Law”

The Connecticut Law Tribune honored three Robinson & Cole lawyers - Megan E. Baroni, Nuala E. Droney, and Charles F. Martin III - as New Leaders in the Law. They were among 62 attorneys, all under age 40, recognized in the New Leaders in the Law 2013 Yearbook, published November 4, and honored at an awards dinner on November 7 at The Bond Ballroom in downtown Hartford. Deputy Attorney General Nora R. Dannehy spoke at the ceremony. The Connecticut Law Tribune received more than 300 award nominations and honorees were selected based on examples of their legal work, pro bono efforts, and community involvement.

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.

Robinson & Cole Announces Mentor of the Year Award Recipients