Rachel Kushel

Rachel V. Kushel

(she/her/hers)

Partner

Rachel V. Kushel

(she/her/hers)

Partner

  • Overview

    Biography

    Rachel Kushel counsels clients on all employment law and workplace human resource issues. She defends management in state and federal court litigation matters and administrative agency claims. Rachel is chair of the firm’s Labor, Employment, Benefits + Immigration Group.

    Employment Litigation and Administrative Advocacy

    Rachel has extensive experience defending management clients in discrimination, leave, and harassment matters. She litigates matters from inception to trial and through appeal in federal and state courts. She has argued successfully on behalf of clients before the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, the District Court of Connecticut, and Connecticut state trial and appellate courts.

    Rachel also represents clients in administrative agency matters before the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Department of Labor, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. She also represents clients at private and public arbitration hearings, and in alternative dispute resolution and mediation sessions with federal, state, and private mediators.

    In addition to assisting clients in obtaining favorable resolutions to matters, Rachel has also achieved successes for clients at various stages of the litigation proceedings. She works with clients in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to, healthcare, financial services, government, and higher education.

    Counseling, Compliance, and Training

    Rachel counsels companies and human resource professionals in all areas of employment law, including discharge and discrimination issues, employee discipline, wage and hour issues, disability and reasonable accommodation, family and medical leave, unemployment, employment and independent contractor agreements, severance and separation agreements, individual terminations and reductions in force, and workplace health and safety issues. Rachel also negotiates and drafts employment and separation agreements, in addition to reviewing and revising employee handbooks and personnel policies. She also conducts training sessions related to a myriad of employment issues, including topics such as sexual harassment, workplace civility, and avoiding discrimination claims.

    Workplace Investigations

    Rachel is a trained workplace investigator and regularly conducts, manages, and provides advice regarding workplace investigations involving all types of employment-related issues. She assists clients with identifying situations that require a workplace investigation.

    Labor Relations and Union Avoidance

    Rachel advises clients on management rights and strategy. She also handles union grievances and arbitrations on behalf of employers.

    Pro Bono

    Rachel regularly engages in pro bono work, including handling unemployment benefits appeals for individuals and reviewing employment handbooks for non-profit and charitable organizations.

    She has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America© in the areas of Employment Law – Management and Labor Law – Management since 2018. 

  • Experience
    • Experience

      Experience

      • Secured dismissal of two separate actions alleging Constitutional claims against a municipality. 

      • Secured favorable settlement of litigation involving allegations of defamation, tortious interference with business relations, and promissory estoppel.

      • Currently serving as first-chair in multi-million dollar litigation which alleges violations of federal employment discrimination law and the Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act.

      • Successfully defended employer in race discrimination claims pending before the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

    • Professional Associations

      Professional Associations

      Connecticut Bar Association
      Executive Committee of the Labor and Employment Section (2020)

      Association of Workplace Investigators
      Certificate Holder (2019)
    • Honors + Awards

      Honors + Awards

      Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© as Hartford Lawyer of the Year in the area of Employment Law – Management for 2023

      Robinson+Cole Diversity, Equity + Inclusion Award, 2022

      Listed in Benchmark Labor & Employment as a Labor & Employment Star for 2021, 2022 and 2023. 

      Selected to the Connecticut Super Lawyers list from 2020 to 2023

      Selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the areas of Employment Law-Management and Labor Law-Management since 2018.

      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.

      Robinson+Cole Mentor of the Year Award Recipient, 2018

    • Community Involvement

      Community Involvement

      Center for Women and Families of Eastern Fairfield County
      Board Member (2010)
      Chair, HR Committee (2010)
  • NEWS + PRESS
    • Publications

      Publications

      "Updating Connecticut Employee Handbooks for 2022," co-authored with Stephen W. Aronson, Kayla N. West and Abby M. Warren, published by the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA) (7/28/2021)

      "The ABCs of DEI," co-authored with Abby M. Warren, Kayla N. West and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, published in Industry Week (3/12/2021)

      "Employer Best Practices For Diversity, Equity and Inclusion," co-authored with Abby M. Warren, Kayla N. West and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, published in Law360 (2/11/2021)

    • Presentations

      Presentations

      "Pregnancy Accommodations for Educational Institutions," co-presented with Kathleen E. Dion, an R+C-hosted webinar (10/24/2023)
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        • 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.


      "Sexual Harassment and Gender-Bias Discrimination in the Workplace: spotlight on the current environment and effects of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health," presented during a membership meeting of the Central Connecticut Paralegal Association (CCPA) (10/20/2022)
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        • Sexual Harassment and Gender-Bias Discrimination in the Workplace: spotlight on the current environment and effects of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health

        "Sexual Harassment and Gender-Bias Discrimination in the Workplace: spotlight on the current environment and effects of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health," presented by Rachel V. Kushel, presented during a membership meeting of the Central Connecticut Paralegal Association (CCPA) (10/20/2022)

        The program addressed the legal principles of sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination as well as discrimination and harassment based on membership in other protected classes. Rachel discussed ways to prevent sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace (both in-person and remote) and how the recent decision in Dobbs has rippled through this practice area.


      "Recreational and Medical Marijuana at Work: CT, MA and R," co-presented with Abby M. Warren, as part of the three-day Tri-State SHRM Conference, a collaboration among the Society of Human Resource Management State Councils of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island (4/25/2022)
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        • Recreational and Medical Marijuana at Work: CT, MA and R

        "Recreational and Medical Marijuana at Work: CT, MA and R," co-presented by Abby M. Warren and Rachel V. Kushel, as part of the three-day Tri-State SHRM Conference, a collaboration among the Society of Human Resource Management State Councils of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island (4/25/2022)

        While marijuana use remains illegal under federal law, in the tri-state area, marijuana is lawful under certain circumstances.  These laws impact employers in their recruitment, drug testing programs, employee relations, and health and safety, among other areas. The presentation reviewed the current state of the law regarding recreational and medical marijuana in the three states and included discussion about HR best practices for ensuring compliance with applicable laws.


      "Safety Roundtable - Employer COVID Rules: How to Keep Up and What Comes Next," co-presented with Natale V. DiNatale and Jonathan H. Schaefer, sponsored by the Connecticut Construction Industries Association's Safety Committee (1/11/2022)
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        • Safety Roundtable - Employer COVID Rules: How to Keep Up and What Comes Next

        "Safety Roundtable - Employer COVID Rules: How to Keep Up and What Comes Next," co-presented by Natale V. DiNatale, Jonathan H. Schaefer and Rachel V. Kushel, sponsored by the Connecticut Construction Industries Association's Safety Committee (1/11/2022)

        The discussion featured topics that included compliance with OSHA's Emergency Temporary Standard and its legal status, the myriad of quarantine, vaccination, and masking rules at the federal and state levels, paid time for vaccinations and reactions to vaccinations, payment for COVID testing, and medical and religious exemptions. This Safety Roundtable was designed for construction safety and health professionals.


      "As the Ball Drops: Key HR Considerations, including Connecticut’s New Employment Laws and a Special Update on I-9 Compliance for Remote Workplaces," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Lauren M. Sigg and Abby M. Warren, an R+C-hosted webinar (12/13/2021)
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        • As the Ball Drops: Key HR Considerations, including Connecticut’s New Employment Laws and a Special Update on I-9 Compliance for Remote Workplaces

        "As the Ball Drops: Key HR Considerations, including Connecticut’s New Employment Laws and a Special Update on I-9 Compliance for Remote Workplaces," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Lauren M. Sigg, Rachel V. Kushel and Abby M. Warren, an R+C-hosted webinar (12/13/2021)

        As employers across Connecticut look toward the coming year and prepare their workplaces to meet the challenges and opportunities that will arise, this program focused on important legal developments that could affect Connecticut workplaces and practical tips and advice for complying with those changes. The discussion included state and federal laws, including wage disclosure obligations, recreational marijuana, and employer provisions going into effect in July 2022; Connecticut’s Family and Medical Leave Act, including paid leave; the status of the various COVID-19 vaccine mandates; and other topics. The webinar also featured a special segment on compliance with Form I-9 requirements in the remote workplace. Attendees were encouraged to submit questions.


      "Preparing for January 1, 2022 — Employer Compliance with Connecticut’s Paid Family and Medical Leave and Family and Medical Leave Laws," co-presented with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, as an R+C-hosted webinar (11/12/2021)
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        • Preparing for January 1, 2022 — Employer Compliance with Connecticut’s Paid Family and Medical Leave and Family and Medical Leave Laws

        "Preparing for January 1, 2022 — Employer Compliance with Connecticut’s Paid Family and Medical Leave and Family and Medical Leave Laws," co-presented by Rachel V. Kushel, Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, as an R+C-hosted webinar (11/12/2021)

        Connecticut's Paid Family and Medical Leave Law (PFMLA) allows employees access to paid leave for life events covered under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA), the Connecticut Family and Medical Leave Act (CT FMLA) and the Connecticut Family Violence Leave Act. The program provided a timely update and reminder on how employers subject to the PFMLA and the CT FMLA will be impacted further as of January 1, 2022, when employees will begin receiving benefit payments for approved paid leave and critical changes to Connecticut’s Family and Medical Leave Act will take effect. The presentation included a discussion of the employer’s role when leave is requested, the Authority’s role in wage replacement, how these laws impact the leave process, and updating leave policies.


      "Special Briefing on OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard Mandating Vaccination for Employers with 100+ Employees," co-presented with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson (11/4/2021)
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        • Special Briefing on OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard Mandating Vaccination for Employers with 100+ Employees

        "Special Briefing on OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard Mandating Vaccination for Employers with 100+ Employees," co-presented by Abby M. Warren, Rachel V. Kushel and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson (11/4/2021)

        On November 4, 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced a new emergency temporary standard, to be published on November 5, 2021. Under this new standard, employers with 100 or more employees will be required to develop and implement a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy or an alternative, which involves requiring additional safety measures for unvaccinated employees. This special briefing addressed the preliminary highlights of the new standard, including specific issues of concern to employers, such as how to treat remote workers, whether to allow for weekly COVID-19 testing, and where to start with implementation. 


      "Summer Brings Road Trips, Rest and Relaxed Rules: Updates on Federal, State and Local Guidance/Laws on Travel, Masks, and Social Distancing," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren, hosted by the Connecticut Community Nonprofit Alliance (7/15/2021)

      "With Daffodils and April Showers Come Key HR Considerations: Top Questions Employers Are Asking During Spring 2021," co-presented with Abby M. Warren, Alisha N. Sullivan and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, an R+C-hosted webinar (4/22/2021)
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        • With Daffodils and April Showers Come Key HR Considerations: Top Questions Employers Are Asking During Spring 2021

        "With Daffodils and April Showers Come Key HR Considerations: Top Questions Employers Are Asking During Spring 2021," co-presented by Abby M. Warren, Alisha N. Sullivan, Rachel V. Kushel and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, an R+C-hosted webinar (4/22/2021)

        Spring is officially here and workplaces across the country are facing new opportunities and challenges. One of the most significant changes is the nationwide distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. With this development, state and federal governments are beginning to make changes to their rules and guidance around workplace safety, travel and remote work policies, and their outlook and predictions for the year. This program reviewed a number of key questions employers are asking, including those concerning vaccination programs and policies, best practices around reopening the workplace from both a legal and employee relations perspective, and changes to employee leave available under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the federal COBRA subsidy.


      "Ringing in 2021 & Maintaining a Happy and Healthy Workplace During the Pandemic," co-presented with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson (1/15/2021)
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        • Ringing in 2021 & Maintaining a Happy and Healthy Workplace During the Pandemic

        "Ringing in 2021 & Maintaining a Happy and Healthy Workplace During the Pandemic," co-presented by Abby M. Warren, Rachel V. Kushel and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson (1/15/2021)

        Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the Robinson+Cole-hosted webinar, "Ringing in 2021 & Maintaining a Happy and Healthy Workplace During the Pandemic," on January 15, 2021. With the recently-authorized COVID-19 vaccinations, the newly-released federal stimulus package, and ever-evolving CDC and state guidelines, employers continue to grapple with the operational issues related to COVID-19. The program looked back on a year that created significant changes and challenges for employers across the country and explored five key COVID-19-related questions they face as we enter the new year, including whether to mandate or encourage employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and what are the best practices for updating return-to-work policies amid changes in state and federal government guidance. Questions from attendees were encouraged.


      "The Next Chapter of COVID-19: How Employers Can Remain Vigilant About COVID-19 This Fall," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren (11/12/2020)
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        • The Next Chapter of COVID-19: How Employers Can Remain Vigilant About COVID-19 This Fall

        "The Next Chapter of COVID-19: How Employers Can Remain Vigilant About COVID-19 This Fall," co-presented by Rachel V. Kushel, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren (11/12/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the webinar "The Next Chapter of COVID-19: How Employers Can Remain Vigilant About COVID-19 This Fall" on November 12, 2020. 

        Throughout 2020, employers have seen many changes to their legal obligations and the ways in which they operate their workplaces as a result of COVID-19. With the holidays approaching, and with COVID-19 cases spiking across the country, employers continue to grapple with the operational issues and challenges related to COVID-19. As we enter the holiday season, it is critical that employers remain vigilant about preventing the spread of COVID-19 in their workplaces. The program explored six important questions that employers are posing about the next chapter of COVID-19, ranging from employee travel and vaccinations to COVID-19 testing and additional strategies for protecting against COVID-19 in the workplace. There was also discussion of significant new changes in the law since spring. Questions from attendees were encouraged.


      "Getting Back To Work: Key Legal and Regulatory Considerations as your Employees get Back to the Office," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren, during Stamford Innovation Week 2020. Robinson+Cole was pleased to sponsor this event. (9/24/2020)
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        • Getting Back To Work: Key Legal and Regulatory Considerations as your Employees get Back to the Office

        "Getting Back To Work: Key Legal and Regulatory Considerations as your Employees get Back to the Office," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Rachel V. Kushel and Abby M. Warren, during Stamford Innovation Week 2020. Robinson+Cole was pleased to sponsor this event. (9/24/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented "Getting Back To Work: Key Legal and Regulatory Considerations as your Employees get Back to the Office" on September 24, 2020 during Stamford Innovation Week 2020. As employees return to the physical workplace during this unprecedented pandemic, there are numerous considerations that employers must keep in mind. The program offered legal and practical advice focused on the high-risk issues that should be on employers’ radar from both legal and employee relations perspectives, including strategies that employers can use both proactively and reactively, and how to identify the areas that have the potential to create substantial risk related to leave and accommodation requests, health and safety, and others issues. This virtual event celebrating innovation, technology and entrepreneurship featured a number of speakers, panels, and networking opportunities. Robinson+Cole was pleased to sponsor this event.


      "Back to School?…for Employers and HR!," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren, a Robinson+Cole-hosted webinar. (8/25/2020)
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        • Back to School?…for Employers and HR!

        "Back to School?…for Employers and HR!," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Rachel V. Kushel and Abby M. Warren, a Robinson+Cole-hosted webinar. (8/25/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the R+C-hosted webinar, "Back to School?…for Employers and HR!" on August 25, 2020. As students and parents get ready to head back to school soon amid the COVID-19 pandemic, how should employers prepare for the impact that school reopenings may have on their workplace? 

        Schools and communities across the country are grappling with the difficult decisions surrounding reopening in the fall, and these decisions will have a far-reaching impact outside the classroom. Employers must plan for the many operational issues and challenges that can occur when parents, guardians, and caregivers are unable to work, unable to work on-site, or require accommodations in order to continue working. It is critical that employers take into account the legal implications as well as employee relations and other practical considerations as they respond to these issues. This program explored seven important questions that employers are posing related to the “return to school” and its impact on operations, ranging from leave and accommodations to performance reviews.


      "How Does HR Prepare for High Court’s Decision Interpreting Sex Discrimination?" co-presented with Abby M. Warren, at the Tri-State SHRM Conference. (8/11/2020)
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        • How Does HR Prepare for High Court’s Decision Interpreting Sex Discrimination?

        "How Does HR Prepare for High Court’s Decision Interpreting Sex Discrimination?" co-presented by Abby M. Warren and Rachel V. Kushel, at the Tri-State SHRM Conference. (8/11/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group members Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the virtual program "How Does HR Prepare for High Court’s Decision Interpreting Sex Discrimination?" at the Tri-State SHRM Conference on August 11, 2020. The program discussed the current state of the law, including SCOTUS’s recent announcement that it is considering three cases that involve the question of whether federal anti-discrimination law protects employees based on sexual orientation and transgender status. The presentation also offered HR professionals insight regarding the risks associated with mismanaging issues that can arise in the workplace, including exposure to discrimination and harassment claims, and best practices to mitigate these risks and create an inclusive and diverse workplace.


      "If I Could Turn Back Time... Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, at the Tri-State SHRM Conference. (8/10/2020)
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        • If I Could Turn Back Time... Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right

        "If I Could Turn Back Time... Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Rachel V. Kushel, at the Tri-State SHRM Conference. (8/10/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson and Rachel Kushel presented the virtual program “If I Could Turn Back Time... Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right” at the Tri-State SHRM Conference on August 10, 2020. As instances and allegations of harassment at work surface nationwide with increasing regularity, it is critical that employers large and small from private industry, public institutions or government agencies understand when and how to conduct workplace investigations. This program afforded attendees the chance to experience the initial stages of a hypothetical workplace problem that could give rise to an investigation and to practice how best to respond to harassment allegations, including identifying key issues and creating a plan of action to investigate and resolve complaints.


      "Getting Back To Work During COVID-19: Top Legal HR Considerations for Employers," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren, which reviewed seven important questions many employers are asking when it comes to implementing a return-to-work-plan. (6/18/2020)
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        • Getting Back To Work During COVID-19: Top Legal HR Considerations for Employers

        "Getting Back To Work During COVID-19: Top Legal HR Considerations for Employers," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Abby M. Warren and Rachel V. Kushel, which reviewed seven important questions many employers are asking when it comes to implementing a return-to-work-plan. (6/18/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel, and Abby Warren presented the Human Resource Association of Central Connecticut's webinar, "Getting Back To Work During COVID-19: Top Legal HR Considerations for Employers," on June 18, 2020. The program reviewed seven important questions many employers are asking when it comes to implementing a return to work plan, ranging from changing the structure and operations of the workplace to deciding who, when, and how employees can safely return to work. The interactive session solicited questions from attendees to help to address the many HR legal issues this timely topic touched on.


      "A Deep Dive for HR Professionals Administering Leave Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: What Employers Need to Know," co-presented with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, which offered a close look at the FFCRA and the various nuances employers should be aware of. (5/29/2020)
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        • A Deep Dive for HR Professionals Administering Leave Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: What Employers Need to Know

        "A Deep Dive for HR Professionals Administering Leave Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: What Employers Need to Know," co-presented by Abby M. Warren, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Rachel V. Kushel, which offered a close look at the FFCRA and the various nuances employers should be aware of. (5/29/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group members Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the webinar "A Deep Dive for HR Professionals Administering Leave Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: What Employers Need to Know" on May 29, 2020. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to sweep the nation, employers have an additional compliance obligation related to the implementation and administration of the leave provisions under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).

         

        Since the FFCRA became law on March 18, 2020, the government has continued to release a myriad of guidance on the proper implementation of the FFCRA, which makes leave available through December 31, 2020. This webinar offered a close look at the FFCRA and the various nuances employers should be aware of, from determining whether and when an employee may use other paid leave in conjunction with the FFCRA to calculating an employee’s pay while on leave and understanding the applicable record-keeping obligations.


      "Re-Opening Your Workplace During COVID-19: Top HR Considerations for Employers," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren, as a webinar hosted by Robinson+Cole. (4/24/2020)
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        • Re-Opening Your Workplace During COVID-19: Top HR Considerations for Employers

        "Re-Opening Your Workplace During COVID-19: Top HR Considerations for Employers," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Abby M. Warren and Rachel V. Kushel, as a webinar hosted by Robinson+Cole. (4/24/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the R+C-hosted webinar "Re-Opening Your Workplace During COVID-19: Top HR Considerations for Employers" on April 24, 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented nation-wide business closures. As state and local governments across the U.S. contemplate lifting shut-down orders and re-opening businesses, employers should plan for re-opening their workplaces and returning their employees to work. Inevitably, workplaces will operate differently post-COVID-19, and there are many considerations that employers must take into account. The program reviewed seven important questions employers are asking concerning the implementation of a return to work plan, ranging from changing the structure and operations of the workplace to deciding who, when and how employees return to work. Questions from attendees were encouraged.


      "COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days," co-presented with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented as part of the Clear Law Institute's "Meeting Unprecedented Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic 2.0" series. (4/2/2020)
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        • COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days

        "COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days," co-presented by Abby M. Warren, Rachel V. Kushel and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented as part of the Clear Law Institute's "Meeting Unprecedented Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic 2.0" series. (4/2/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the webinar program "COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days" on April 2, 2020. The program was part of the Clear Law Institute's "Meeting Unprecedented Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic 2.0" series.

         

        The webinar discussed the “Top Seven Questions” that many employers are asking, which range from wage payment and benefits during periods of quarantine to the permissibility of taking employee temperatures and allowing “work from home” arrangements. They were intended to equip employers to address issues such as effectively managing their workplace and business operations in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying which laws and guidelines apply to employee issues likely to arise due to the pandemic, and determining how wage payments, leave, and other employee benefits will be impacted.


      "COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days," co-presented with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented to three online audiences in March 2020. (3/26/2020)
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        • COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days

        "COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days," co-presented by Rachel V. Kushel, Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented to three online audiences in March 2020. (3/26/2020)

        Labor and Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Rachel Kushel and Abby Warren presented the webinar program "COVID-19 Pandemic: The Workplace Now and in 30 Days" on three occasions in March. The first program, on March 19, 2020, was hosted by Robinson+Cole; the second was presented on March 25th to the Human Resources Association of Central Connecticut; and the third presentation was made to the CT Society of CPAs on March 26th.

         

        The webinars discussed the “Top Seven Questions” that many employers are asking, which range from wage payment and benefits during periods of quarantine to the permissibility of taking employee temperatures and allowing “work from home” arrangements. They were intended to equip employers to address issues such as effectively managing their workplace and business operations in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying which laws and guidelines apply to employee issues likely to arise due to the pandemic, and determining how wage payments, leave, and other employee benefits will be impacted.


      "Is There a Future for Non-Competes? A Discussion of Recent Trends at the State and Federal Level," presented at the Connecticut Bar Association's Labor and Employment Law Section virtual meeting (1/16/20)
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        • Is There a Future for Non-Competes? A Discussion of Recent Trends at the State and Federal Level

        "Is There a Future for Non-Competes? A Discussion of Recent Trends at the State and Federal Level," presented by Rachel V. Kushel, presented at the Connecticut Bar Association's Labor and Employment Law Section virtual meeting (1/16/20)

        Labor, Employment, Benefits + Immigration Group member Rachel Kushel was a featured panelist at the Connecticut Bar Association's Labor and Employment Law Section virtual meeting on January 16, 2020. The moderated evening program, “Is There a Future for Non-Competes? A Discussion of Recent Trends at the State and Federal Level," covered recent legislative trends that narrow the acceptable use of non-competition agreements in the employment context, as well as proposals to do away with such agreements altogether. The panel discussion was linked via video conference and was available in open Murtha Cullina LLP offices in Hartford, New Haven and Stamford, as well as the Tobin, Carberry, O’Malley, Riley & Selinger P.C. office in New London. 1.5 Connecticut CLE credits were offered.  


      "Sexual Harassment in the Workplace," presented at the monthly meeting of the New England Claim Executives Association (NECEA) (3/12/2019)
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        • Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

        "Sexual Harassment in the Workplace," presented by Rachel V. Kushel, presented at the monthly meeting of the New England Claim Executives Association (NECEA) (3/12/2019)

        Labor and Employment Group lawyer Rachel V. Kushel presented on the many facets of “Sexual Harassment in the Workplace” at the monthly meeting of the New England Claim Executives Association (NECEA), held in Hartford, Connecticut on Tuesday, March 12, 2019. 

        Rachel’s presentation focused on several topics such as sexual harassment education, awareness, training, compliance and prevention.  As part of the educational component, she explained the legal concepts of harassment, discrimination, retaliation and other related elements necessary to analyzing employment claims. Rachel highlighted the value to employers to an improved workplace culture, avoiding situations that can give rise to claims, and to fostering positive employee interactions.   

        A detailed Q&A session led to discussions about how these issues relate to a variety of seemingly different industries, the impact of employment practices liability insurance on defending claims, and the evidentiary impact of social medial and electronic devices.


      "Workplace Investigation Basics Seminar," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented by the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) at Robinson+Cole's Boston office (5/10/2018)
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        • Workplace Investigation Basics Seminar

        "Workplace Investigation Basics Seminar," co-presented by Rachel V. Kushel and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, presented by the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) at Robinson+Cole's Boston office (5/10/2018)

        The full-day, interactive program introduced participants to the theory and the practical skills necessary to conduct impartial investigations of allegations of employee misconduct. Attendees learned how to: ask effective questions, interview reluctant witnesses, obtain relevant evidence, assess credibility, and arrive at a legally defensible decision. They were also instructed in how to prepare and utilize all of the necessary documentation during the investigative process. Ms. Cole-Johnson and Ms. Kushel are both AWI Certificate Holders and Ms. Cole-Johnson serves on the Board of Directors of AWI. AWI's membership of more than 800 professionals from across the United States, Canada, and Australia consists of lawyers, human resource professionals, and private investigators who conduct, manage, or have a professional interest in workplace investigations.


      "If I Could Turn Back Time...Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right," co-presented with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Abby M. Warren, presented by the Human Resource Association of Central Connecticut (2/28/2018)
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        • If I Could Turn Back Time...Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right

        "If I Could Turn Back Time...Getting Workplace Harassment Investigations Right," co-presented by Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Rachel V. Kushel and Abby M. Warren, presented by the Human Resource Association of Central Connecticut (2/28/2018)

        The program was conducted as a hypothetical workplace harassment investigation. Ms. Cole-Johnson, Ms. Kushel, and Ms. Warren role-played the initial major phases of the workplace investigation process based on a hypothetical scenario with input from attendees on identifying and analyzing the issues presented. The program also covered responding to harassment allegations, including identifying key issues and creating a plan of action to investigate and resolve complaints.


      "Labor Grievance Processing," co-presenter for an American Arbitration Association program in Cromwell, Connecticut (11/30/2017)

    • News

      R+C in the News

      • November 29, 2023

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

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

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

        • View article
      • August 2, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

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          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.

      • January 5, 2022

        Business Transactions Team Represents Hydrofera, LLC in Sale to Essity

      • March 16, 2021

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

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

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

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      • February 16, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

      • May 28, 2019

        Firm Attorneys Host AWI New England Local Circle Meeting in Boston

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          Firm Attorneys Host AWI New England Local Circle Meeting in Boston

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

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

      • April 29, 2019

        Partner Rachel Kushel Quoted in CT Law Tribune “Lawyer-Moms Say Flexible Policies Are Key to Success”

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          Partner Rachel Kushel Quoted in CT Law Tribune “Lawyer-Moms Say Flexible Policies Are Key to Success”

          As the number of women practicing law continues to grow, firms are striving to accommodate women attorneys who want to both practice and have a family. The New York Law Journal reported recently that a number of young female attorneys intent on pursuing their careers are becoming more interested in freezing their eggs, in order to have more time to focus on advancement toward partnership. In this article from the CT Law Tribune on April 24, 2019, Connecticut attorneys identified flexibility as being an integral element in developing supportive policies. 

          Partner Rachel Kushel, a mother of two and co-vice chair of the firm’s women’s committee, said that while she hasn’t heard from female colleagues about freezing their eggs, she agrees that supportiveness and flexibility are important at the management level to ensure all lawyers are free to raise families. “We just revamped our parental leave policy to provide even greater support to our attorneys who are embarking on family planning issues, and we have family leave mentors. One of the tenets of the new program is flexibility. We wanted a program that works for individuals and families,” Kushel said. 

          Kushel explained that Robinson+Cole has broadened its parental leave policy, opening it up to both child-bearing and non-birthing parents, regardless of gender. She said, “I think there is less perception that it’s only a women’s issue. It’s a family issue that’s applicable to both genders.” Kushel said that results in firms like R+C expanding their family leave policies to women and men across the board, in traditional and same-sex couples. And, that the firm’s policies are constantly evolving. 

          “Our parental leave policy can be used intermittently by both parents, regardless of gender, and families can be adaptive,” continued Kushel. “We have embraced all of those issues, recognizing that no one policy fits all, so we have really increased the flexibility in how to best support families.” 
           

      • March 19, 2019

        Rachel Kushel Presents to Claim Executives on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

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          Rachel Kushel Presents to Claim Executives on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

          Labor and Employment Group lawyer Rachel V. Kushel presented on the many facets of “Sexual Harassment in the Workplace” at the monthly meeting of the New England Claim Executives Association (NECEA), held in Hartford, Connecticut on Tuesday, March 12, 2019. 

          Rachel’s presentation focused on several topics such as sexual harassment education, awareness, training, compliance and prevention.  As part of the educational component, she explained the legal concepts of harassment, discrimination, retaliation and other related elements necessary to analyzing employment claims. Rachel highlighted the value to employers to an improved workplace culture, avoiding situations that can give rise to claims, and to fostering positive employee interactions.   

          A detailed Q&A session led to discussions about how these issues relate to a variety of seemingly different industries, the impact of employment practices liability insurance on defending claims, and the evidentiary impact of social medial and electronic devices.
           

      • August 20, 2018

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

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

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

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

        • View article
      • June 5, 2018

        Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson and Rachel Kushel Lead Association of Workplace Investigators Seminar

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          Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson and Rachel Kushel Lead Association of Workplace Investigators Seminar

          Labor and Employment Group lawyers Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson and Rachel V. Kushel presented the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) " Workplace Investigation Basics Seminar," hosted at Robinson+Cole's Boston office on May 10, 2018. The full-day, interactive program introduced participants to the theory and the practical skills necessary to conduct impartial investigations of allegations of employee misconduct. Attendees learned how to: ask effective questions, interview reluctant witnesses, obtain relevant evidence, assess credibility, and arrive at a legally defensible decision. They were also instructed in how to prepare and utilize all of the necessary documentation during the investigative process. Ms. Cole-Johnson and Ms. Kushel are both AWI Certificate Holders and Ms. Cole-Johnson serves on the Board of Directors of AWI. AWI's membership of more than 800 professionals from across the United States, Canada, and Australia consists of lawyers, human resource professionals, and private investigators who conduct, manage, or have a professional interest in workplace investigations.

      • March 13, 2018

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

        • » more info

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

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

      • December 13, 2017

        Rachel Kushel Co-presents on Labor Grievance Processing

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          Rachel Kushel Co-presents on Labor Grievance Processing

          Labor + Employment lawyer Rachel V. Kushel was a co-presenter on the topic of "Labor Grievance Processing" at an American Arbitration Association program in Cromwell, Connecticut on November 30, 2017. The program offered practical skills and information on how to constructively use the grievance process to resolve disputes and questions regarding contract interpretation. Ms. Kushel shared insight on how to assess the merits of a grievance, conduct an investigation and communicate a position effectively at a grievance meeting, and implement or otherwise formalize the grievance procedure in an organization.

      R+C News Releases

      • October 26, 2023

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2023 Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2023 Super Lawyers®

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

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

        • View article
      • October 10, 2023

        Robinson+Cole Recognized in 2024 Edition of Benchmark Litigation

      • August 17, 2023

        78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024

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          78 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024

          78 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2024. Of the 78 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 57 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. Approximately, the top 5 percent of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

          Additionally, five lawyers were named Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year” in the following offices, in the noted practice areas:

          Hartford, CT – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

          Jacqueline Pennino Scheib – Trademark Law

          Michael R. Enright – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law

          Theodore J. Tucci – Insurance Law

          Boston, MA – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

          Michael S. Giaimo – Land Use and Zoning Law

          Stamford, CT – Best Lawyers® 2024 “Lawyer of the Year”

          Patricia D. Weitzman – Health Care Law and Litigation-Health Care

          A Best Lawyers “Lawyer of the Year” designation is awarded to one lawyer in each of various high-profile specialties in large legal communities. These particular lawyers received the highest ratings among their peers for their abilities, professionalism, and integrity.

          The fourth edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America was also released, which 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.

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      • October 11, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

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

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

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      • September 30, 2022

        Robinson+Cole Recognized by Benchmark Litigation

      • August 18, 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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      • October 14, 2021

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

        • View article
      • August 19, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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      • October 15, 2020

        47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

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          47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

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      • October 8, 2020

        Robinson+Cole Recognized in Benchmark Litigation

      • August 20, 2020

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

        • » more info

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

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

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

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

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      • November 18, 2019

        Robinson+Cole Receives the Diana Kleefeld Pro Bono Award from Connecticut Appleseed

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          Robinson+Cole Receives the Diana Kleefeld Pro Bono Award from Connecticut Appleseed

          Robinson+Cole was presented with the Diana Kleefeld Pro Bono Award by Connecticut Appleseed for its work on a special education research project, and other pro bono efforts, during the organization’s “Good Apple” Awards in Hartford, Connecticut on November 11, 2019. Robinson+Cole lawyer Christine E. Bromberg served as co-chair of the annual event.

          A group of R+C lawyers, including Gregory J. Bennici, Emily C. Deans, Peter K. Knight, Rachel V. Kushel, and paralegal Albina Yaikbaeva, recently assisted Connecticut Appleseed in a research project that examined how school districts are dealing with rising special education costs. R+C lawyer Ryan V. Leichsenring was also included in the firm’s pro bono recognition for his role in the spin-off of an existing Connecticut Appleseed program, Connecting through Literacy: Incarcerated parents, their Children, and Caregivers (CLICC), to a new public charity. Read more and view a photo in the press release.

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      • August 15, 2019

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

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

          57 Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020. Of the 57 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 44 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state. Robinson+Cole also has the highest number of listed lawyers in Connecticut in the areas of environmental law, insurance law, and litigation-construction.

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

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      • 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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      • August 13, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

      • December 11, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners

      • August 15, 2017

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

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

          Fifty-nine Robinson+Cole lawyers were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2018 (Copyright 2017 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, SC). Of the 59 lawyers from across the firm’s practice groups and offices named to the list, 49 are from Connecticut. The firm continues to have the highest number of recognized lawyers in the state.

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

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

        • View article
      • October 8, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Welcomes 10 New Lawyers

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          Robinson+Cole Welcomes 10 New Lawyers

          Robinson+Cole welcomes 10 new lawyers who joined
          the firm over the course of the summer, in offices in Connecticut,
          Massachusetts, New York, and Florida. The lawyers bring additional breadth to a variety of our practices, including business transactions, environmental and utilities, finance, insurance, labor and employment, litigation, real estate, nonprofit organizations, and trusts and estates. Additionally, the firm is pleased to welcome two recent law school graduates. Read about our new lawyers here.

        • View article
    • Legal Updates/Newsletters

      Legal Updates/Newsletters

      "Employer-Mandated Disclosure of Wage Ranges and Expansion of Equal Pay Law Enacted in Connecticut" co-authored with Stephen W. Aronson, Abby M. Warren and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz (6/15/2021)

      "Employers and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Getting it Right in 2021" co-authored with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Abby M. Warren and Kayla N. West (2/10/2021)

      "Clarity Comes to Compensation Data Collection: EEOC Guidance and Notices Issued for EEO-1 Filers" co-authored with Abby M. Warren and Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson (7/11/2019)

      "Major Shift in Connecticut’s Leave Landscape: What Employers Need to Know About the New Connecticut Paid Family and Medical Leave Law" co-authored with Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Alexander Friedman and Abby M. Warren (July 2019)