Stephen Goldman

Stephen E. Goldman

Partner

Stephen E. Goldman

Partner

  • Overview

    Biography

    Steve Goldman is a nationally-recognized trial lawyer and the immediate past Managing Partner of the firm. He has tried cases and prosecuted and defended appeals regarding a wide range of matters in federal and state courts throughout the United States. Steve has been actively involved in civil litigation in approximately 35 states and he has tried significant cases to verdict or judgment in many of those jurisdictions. He has also argued appeals in seven of the eleven federal circuit courts of appeal, in 11 different state appellate courts, and has represented clients in the Supreme Court of the United States. Steve is a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers and has served as the Chair of the Connecticut State Committee and as a member of the Civil Procedure Committee of that organization. He also is a Fellow in the American College of Coverage Counsel and serves as a co-chair of its Property Insurance Section. He has served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel, and currently serves on the board of the FDCC Foundation.

    Steve is currently involved as national counsel for insurers and trade organizations in responding to the proliferation of business interruption lawsuits arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also is significantly involved in high-impact bankruptcy litigation throughout the United States, and in the defense of numerous class actions, especially those arising out of insurance coverage and market conduct issues. In prior years, Steve has served as lead national counsel and has handled numerous precedent-setting cases in matters arising from catastrophes such as Superstorm Sandy, Hurricanes Katrina and Andrew, the terrorist attacks of 9/11, and the anthrax scare in 2001.

    Among the more significant cases Steve has handled are The Standard Fire Insurance Company v. Knowles (the Supreme Court of United States holding that plaintiff's stipulation cannot defeat federal jurisdiction under Class Action Fairness Act); Verveine Corp. v. Strathmore Ins. Co., (Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts finding that COVID-19 does not cause direct physical loss of or damage to property under a property insurance policy); Butler v. Travelers Home & Marine Ins. Co., (South Carolina Supreme Court holding that repair costs allocated to labor can be depreciated under a property insurance policy); Travco v. Ward (the Virginia Supreme Court upholding the trial court's judgment that property insurance policies do not cover losses caused by presence of Chinese drywall); Sher v. Lafayette Insurance Company (the Louisiana Supreme Court upholding the flood exclusion in Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina); Landry v. Louisiana Citizens Insurance Company (the Louisiana Supreme Court holding Louisiana's Valued Policy Law inapplicable to certain Katrina-related claims); Johnson Gallagher Magliery LLC v. Charter Oak Fire Ins. Co. (the U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, granting partial summary judgment in favor of insurer in applying flood exclusion to loss of electrical power in lower Manhattan and precluding business income losses related to Superstorm Sandy power interruption); and Streamline Capital v. Hartford Insurance (refusing to adopt the time necessary to rebuild the World Trade Center as the "period of restoration" for WTC tenants).

    Steve served as the firm’s Managing Partner from 2016 to 2021. During his tenure, Robinson+Cole developed and implemented a three-year Strategic Plan, improved its profitability significantly, saw growth in key business sectors - including the addition of leading national practices in bankruptcy, insurance coverage and real estate development - and oversaw the expansion of the firm’s offices in New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Wilmington. He continues to serve as chair of the firm’s lateral growth committee

    Steve has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America© in the area of Insurance Law since 2006, and was named the Best Lawyers®  “Lawyer of the Year” in Hartford in the area of Insurance Law for 2011, 2016, and 2018. He also has been selected to the Connecticut Super Lawyers list from 2006 to 2022 and the Top 50 Connecticut Super Lawyers for 2009.

  • Experience
    • Experience

      Experience

        Significant Reported Decisions

      • The Standard Fire Insurance Company v. Knowles, in which the Supreme Court of United States held that plaintiff's stipulation cannot defeat federal jurisdiction under the Class Action Fairness Act.

      • Verveine v. Strathmore Ins. Co., __MA__; 184 N.E.3d 1273 (MA 2022); This was the first state supreme court decision to address the question of whether COVID-19 can be the source of direct physical loss of or damage to property that is covered under a property insurance policy. The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts unanimously found in favor of our client, Strathmore Insurance, holding that regardless of whether the virus was or was not on the premises, it could not be the source of a claim for loss of business income under a property insurance policy. The court’s opinion has been cited repeatedly by other courts throughout the United States. Steve Goldman argued the appeal for Strathmore Insurance.

      • Mattdogg v. Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company,  -- A.3d --, 2022 WL 2196396 (N.J. App. Div. June 20, 2022) In the first appellate decision in New Jersey addressing the question of whether business interruption losses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic are covered under property insurance policies, the New Jersey Superior Court (appellate division) found that there was no coverage. The court quoted extensively from Verveine and found that ““[t]he mere presence of the virus on surfaces did not physically alter the property, nor did the existence of airborne particles carrying the virus”). Attorney Goldman argued this appeal for the prevailing appellee, Philadelphia Indemnity.

      • Butler v. Travelers Home & Marine Ins. Co., 2021 WL 1900088 (S.C. 2021): This was one of the first state supreme court decisions addressing the question of whether a property insurer is permitted to depreciate the portion of a property damage repair estimate that is attributable to labor. The Supreme Court of South Carolina unanimously found in favor of our client (Travelers) and held that it was not improper for an insurer to depreciate the entire repair estimate both labor and material in calculating the actual cash value of a loss under a property insurance policy. Steve Goldman argued the appeal for Travelers.

      • Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma v. Philadelphia Indemnity Ins. Co., 21 F.4th 704 (10th Cir. 2021): In a case of first impression under Oklahoma law, the Tenth Circuit found that COVID-19 could not be the source of a claim for loss of business income under a property insurance policy. The court found that the plaintiff could not plead or prove there was a direct physical loss of or damage to property and also that the claim was excluded by a virus exclusion in the policy. Steve Goldman argued this appeal for the prevailing appellee, Philadelphia Indemnity. 

         

      • Kim-Chee LLC v. Philadelphia Indemnity Ins. Co., 2022 WL 258569 (2nd Cir. 2022): This was the first appellate case applying New York law that addressed the question of whether an insured could recover for a loss of business income if it proved that the COVID-19 virus had been present on its business premises. After argument, the Second Circuit, applying New York law, found in favor of our client. Steve Goldman argued this appeal for the prevailing appellee, Philadelphia Indemnity.

      • Santo’s Italian Café LLC v. Acuity Ins. Co., 15 F.4th 398 (6th Cir. 2021). Applying Ohio law, the Sixth Circuit found that COVID-19 does not cause physical loss of or damage to property, and therefore cannot be the source of a claim for loss of business income under a property insurance policy. Steve Goldman argued this appeal for the amicus, American Property Casualty Insurance Association.

      • Travco v. Ward 468 Fed. Appx. 195 (4th Cir. 2012) and 284 Va. 547 (Va., 2012) – This was the nation's leading case on the question of whether coverage existed under property insurance policies for losses caused by the presence of Chinese Drywall. We brought this declaratory judgment action on behalf of the insurer, which was a Travelers subsidiary. We successfully obtained summary judgment from the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. On appeal, after briefing and argument, the US Fourth Circuit certified most of the coverage issues to the Virginia Supreme Court. The Virginia Supreme Court then affirmed the rulings of the federal district court, and the US Fourth Circuit subsequently affirmed the judgment in its entirety. Steve Goldman argued the motion for summary judgment before the district court and the appeals in both the US Fourth Circuit and the Virginia Supreme Court.

      • Allen v. USAA 790 F.3d 1274 (11th Cir. Fla., 2015) – In this putative class action, the plaintiff alleged that our client violated the Florida statutes regarding mandatory code upgrade coverage. Steve Goldman obtained summary judgment for our client in the federal district court for the Northern District of Florida and successfully argued the appeal before the Eleventh Circuit, which affirmed the judgment in favor of our client.

      • Thatcher v. Hanover Insurance Company 659 F.3d 1212 (8th Cir. 2011) – This appeal also arose out of a putative class action alleging a failure to pay general contractor overhead and profit as a part of the settlement of property insurance claims. After we removed the action (originally brought in Circuit Court of Miller County, Arkansas, a notorious "magnet" jurisdiction) to the federal court, the plaintiff moved to voluntarily dismiss the case without prejudice so that he could file a more "streamlined" complaint in the state court that would defeat federal jurisdiction. After the federal district court judge granted the plaintiff's motion, we appealed, arguing that a Rule 41 dismissal cannot be used as a forum shopping vehicle. The Eighth Circuit agreed, and reversed the district court, reinstituting federal jurisdiction. Steve Goldman argued the appeal before the Eighth Circuit.

      • Moore v. Travelers 312 Fed. Appx. 911 (11th Cir. 2009) – This appeal also arose out of a putative class action alleging a failure to pay general contractor overhead and profit as a part of the settlement of property insurance claims. Here, our client demanded appraisal of the named plaintiff's claim after the action had been commenced in the US District Court for Georgia. We moved to dismiss on the grounds that the plaintiff had not complied with the conditions precedent in the policy before commencing suit. The District Court granted our motion. On appeal, the 11th Circuit affirmed.

      • Globecon v. Hartford Fire Insurance Company 434 F.3d 165, 176 (2d Cir. 2006) – This appeal arose out of a business interruption claim arising out of the 9/11 catastrophe in New York. The insured under The Hartford's policy attempted to assign their rights after the loss to an entity that purchased the insured's assets. The Second Circuit found that the purchasing entity could only pursue a claim if they could show substantial compliance with the policy conditions and, even then, they could not pursue any claims for their own loss of business income subsequent to the date of the assignment. Similarly, the Second Circuit found that the purchaser's claim for consequential damages could not be pursued.

      • Crowley v. Travelers 919 A.2d 979 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2007) - Steve Goldman argued this appeal, in which the Pennsylvania Supreme Court affirmed a decision (actually revoked its early grant of certiorari as "improvidently granted") denying class certification in a statewide overhead and profit class action.

      • Lindas v. First Floridian 114 So. 3d 1018 (Fla. 5th DCA 2012) – This was another overhead and profit class action. After a three day class certification hearing, the plaintiff's motion for class certification was denied. On appeal, the Florida Court of Appeal affirmed without oral argument.

      • Sher v. Lafayette Insurance Company 973 So. 2d 39 (La.App. 4 Cir., 2007) aff'd 952 So. 2d 683 (La., Mar. 13, 2007) (Louisiana Court of Appeals and Louisiana Supreme Court) – This case was critically important to the insurance industry, as it established that the flood insurance exclusion in property insurance policies applied to the flooding that took place in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.

      • In re Katrina Canal Breaches Litigation 524 F.3d 700 (5th Cir. 2008) – This case was the federal court predecessor to the Sher case, and the opinion of the US 5th Circuit was critically important to the Louisiana Supreme Court when it took up the appeal in Sher. Following the District Court's decision finding the flood exclusion ambiguous and unenforceable, the 5th Circuit reversed and found the exclusion unambiguous and enforceable.

      • Corban v. United Servs. Auto. Ass'n, 20 So. 3d 601, 609 (Miss. 2009) – Steve was an author of the amicus brief on behalf of the American Insurance Association. The Mississippi Supreme Court properly concluded that the flood exclusion applied to the storm surge following Hurricane Katrina and that the anti-concurrent causation provision in the policy applied to simultaneous indistinguishable damage (i.e., where both forces acted concurrently and it was impossible to determine whether damage was caused by wind or flood).

      • Landry v. Louisiana Citizens Insurance Company 983 So. 2d 66 (La. 5/21/08) aff'd 964 So. 2d 463. (La. App. 3 Cir. 8/28/07 (Louisiana Court of Appeal and Louisiana Supreme Court) – This case involved the question of whether Louisiana's Valued Policy Law applied to losses where buildings suffered total losses but most of the damage was caused by an excluded peril (i.e., flood) and a small part of the damage was caused by a covered peril (i.e., wind). The court found that the Valued Policy Law did not apply to the case at hand, but its decision was drafted relatively narrowly, so many of the issues involved remained outstanding. The 5th Circuit's decision in Chauvin, therefore, remains the most comprehensive decision on this issue. Steve Goldman was an author of the amicus brief for the American Insurance Association. He also prepared the Louisiana lawyer who argued the case in the Louisiana Court of Appeal and Louisiana Supreme Court.

      • Chauvin v. State Farm et al 495 F.3d 232 (5th Cir. 2007) – This was the federal court counterpart to Landry. Both the district court and the 5th Circuit found that Louisiana's Valued Policy Law did not apply to losses in which most of the damage was caused by an excluded peril.

      • State of Louisiana v. AAA Insurance et al. ("Road Home") 2011 WL 5118859 (E.D.La.10/28/2011) – This case involved a subrogation/recovery action brought by the State of Louisiana seeking to recover from all risk property insurers funds that had been paid out under the Road Home program that Congress authorized following Hurricane Katrina. There was a challenge to federal jurisdiction over the appeal early in the litigation. The Louisiana Supreme Court ultimately agreed with our position that anti-assignment clauses were enforceable, but only enforced the clauses with respect to a small number of carriers whose policy language was sufficiently specific in the court's view.

      • Garson Management v. Travelers No. 4169/99 (NY Sup. Ct 2000) aff'd Garson Mgt. Co. v. Travelers Indem. Co. of Ill., 300 A.D.2d 538, 539, 752 N.Y.S.2d 696 (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division – 1st Department, 2002) – This case involved the question of coverage for structural damage to an apartment complex in Yonkers, New York. Steve Goldman obtained summary judgment for the insurer and successfully defended the appeal. I argued both the summary judgment motion and the appeal.

      • Rego v. Connecticut Insurance Placement Facility 22 Conn.App. 428, 430, 577 A.2d 1105 (1990), rev'd on other grounds, 219 Conn. 339, 593 A.2d 491 (1991) (Connecticut Supreme Court and Connecticut Appellate Court) – This appeal involved the question of the burden of proof regarding the Misrepresentation/Fraud condition in property insurance policies. The issue was whether the insurer's burden of proof could be met by a preponderance of the evidence, or whether the insurer could only meet its burden of proof with clear, convincing and unequivocal evidence. The Connecticut Supreme Court upheld the preponderance standard. Steve Goldman argued the appeal and received the David Neiditz Award from the University of Connecticut for the year's best appellate brief in the State.

      • Chapman v. Norfolk & Dedham Mutual Fire Insurance Company 39 Conn. App. 306, 665 A.2d 112 (Connecticut Appellate Court, 1995) – This appeal arose out of the trial of an arson case in which the insurer was allowed to introduce otherwise hearsay evidence in order to defend itself against allegations of bad faith and violations of Connecticut's Unfair Trade Practices Act. The argument for the admissibility of the evidence was that it was information that the insurer's decision-maker had at the time the decision to deny was made, and that the insurer had a right to put that information before the jury. The Appellate Court affirmed the trial court's ruling allowing the evidence to be admitted. Steve Goldman tried the case, wrote the appellate brief and argued the appeal.

      • MBS Management Services, Inc. v. Homeland Insurance Company In re MBS Mgmt. Services, Inc., 690 F.3d 352, 356 (5th Cir.2012) – This was a business interruption case that arose out of losses caused by Hurricane Katrina. After several years of litigation, on the eve of trial, we obtained rulings from the federal district court that the plaintiff could only recover for losses that were caused by the interruption of the insured's business, and could not recover for losses caused by the interruption of the insured's affiliate, which was not insured under the policy. The plaintiff came to the conclusion that this ruling would be fatal to its case, and voluntarily dismissed the case so that it could pursue an appeal before the 5th Circuit. On appeal, the 5th Circuit affirmed the trial court, resulting in our client's escaping any liability. Steve Goldman was lead trial counsel in the trial court and argued the appeal before the Fifth Circuit.

      • Grantham Education v. Hartford Fire Insurance Company 56 Sc 3d 462 (La.App. 1 Cir., Oct. 29, 2010) – This was a business interruption case arising out of Hurricane Katrina. We obtained partial summary judgment on behalf of the insurer based on a finding that the civil authority coverage was subject to the policy limit for business interruption. The insured appealed, and the Louisiana Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court's ruling. Steve Goldman argued the summary judgment motion and the appeal for the insurer.

      • Lead Counsel for several insurers in defense of numerous large lawsuits arising out of claims for business losses resulting from events of September 11.  The largest claims were in excess of $100 million, and most were in excess of $10 million. Litigation spawned many of the country's most frequently cited judicial decisions in business interruption, including Streamline Capital, L.L.C. v. Hartford Casualty Ins. Co., 2005 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 468 (S.D.N.Y., Jan. 7, 2005) and Lava Trading, Inc. v. Hartford Fire Ins. Co., 2005 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 466 (S.D.N.Y., Jan. 10, 2005).

      • Paradies Shops, Inc. v. Hartford Fire Insurance Co., 2004 WL 5704715 (N.D. Ga. Dec.15, 2004) - Obtained summary judgment from federal court in Atlanta in defense of civil authority claim prosecuted by owner of airport stores throughout the United States.

      • Wells Dairy v. Travelers 241 F.Supp.2d 945, 966 (N.D.Iowa 2003) - Defended insurer in $30 million bad faith and breach of contract action arising from the denial of a national ice cream producer's extra expense claim.

      • Lisa Bruno v. The Travelers Companies et al. 172 Conn App 717 (Connecticut Appellate Court, 2017) Represented defendant insurer in case involving allegations by a former insured in connection with the insurer’s denial of coverage for a fire loss and the insurer’s subsequent testimony at the insured’s divorce proceedings concerning the basis for the denial. On appeal, the Court held that the insurer’s testimony and conduct at the hearing was protected by the absolute immunity afforded witnesses in judicial proceedings. Thus, the plaintiff’s defamation and related claims arising out of that conduct and testimony were barred.

      • Shri Gayatri LLC v. The Charter Oak Fire Insurance Company 206 F. Supp 3d 684 (US District Court, Mass., 2016) Successfully obtained summary judgment on behalf of an insurance company client in federal court, defeating plaintiff’s allegations of breach of good faith. The owner of a hotel had sought to recover for the total loss of the business due to a 2011 tornado in Massachusetts followed by rain and ice storms later that year. The court agreed with the insurer that the insured’s failure to repair or replace the property within two years of the date of loss, as required by the insurance contract, meant there was no coverage for replacement cost, rejecting the insureds’ argument that delays in claim resolution were the carrier's fault, and should extend the two-year period.

        • Other Significant Matters

      • ManorCare of New Jersey v. Travelers 210 F.3d 358 (US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit) – This case also involved the question of coverage for losses relating to defective roofing materials. We obtained summary judgment from the federal District Court, and that judgment was affirmed by the US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

      • Travelers v. American Media (S.D. of Fla.)  Advised and represented Travelers in declaratory judgment action arising out of anthrax contamination of the headquarters of the National Enquirer. The building had been contaminated by an letter containing anthrax addressed to the photo editor, causing his death and the evacuation of the structure. The case turned on whether the vandalism exception to the contamination exclusions applied. After the declaratory judgment clarified the dispute, the matter was settled on favorable terms.

      • Related Companies v. Travelers (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division – 2nd Department) – This appeal arose out of a claim for termite damage to a condominium complex in Jacksonville, Florida. We brought a declaratory judgment action in the New York state courts and obtained summary judgment. We then successfully defended the appeal. Steve Goldman argued both the summary judgment motion and the appeal.

      • ManorCare of Kansas v. Travelers No. 81006 (Kan. App. 1999) – This case involved the issue of coverage for losses relating to defective roofing materials. Steve Goldman obtained summary judgment for the insurer in the trial court and the judgment was affirmed by the Kansas Court of Appeals. Steve argued the motion for summary judgment before the trial court and the appeal before the Kansas Court of Appeals.

      • Poretsky v. HiRise Engineering, 2016 WL 5678380, (US District Court, ED New York, 2016) Represented insurance company in obtaining dismissal of RICO claims alleging improper conduct in adjustment and settlement of flood insurance claims under federal flood insurance policies. 

      • Lead trial counsel in defense of $100 million Hurricane Katrina commercial property case. First Hurricane Katrina case the client insurance company allowed before a New Orleans jury. Tried to successful verdict and settled on appeal for less than 2% of the claim.

      • Impac Hotel v. Travelers (N.D.Ga.) - Obtained Summary Judgment from federal court for Insurer on "Loss in Progress" defense to claim arising out of damage to hotel in Eastern Kentucky built on top of mine spoil.
      • Successfully represented property insurer in trial of coverage and bad faith dispute involving claims for more than $30 million in damage for mold and other contamination of apartment complex. Case was tried before a federal court jury in Oklahoma City. After a week of trial, the case settled for considerably less than had been offered before trial commenced.

      • Defense of insurer in arbitration and state court proceedings in Florida in $300 million property damage, business interruption, and consequential damage claim brought by owners of Miami Beach resort because of Hurricane Andrew. After 23 days of evidentiary hearings, case was resolved on very favorable terms (less than was offered before arbitration commenced).

      • Represented insurer in coverage litigation concerning Big Dig builder’s risk policy. Litigation involved three claims for which construction company sought coverage for the costs associated with the infiltration of water into an underwater tunnel crossing the Fort Point Channel in Boston.
      • Represented property insurer in Florida and Louisiana litigation arising out of $19 million contractor kickback scheme arising out claims by owners of subsidized housing for damage caused by Hurricane Andrew. Cases were resolved with our client avoiding payment to insured and recovering money from broker and public adjuster.
      • Represented property insurer in connection with a claim in excess of $20 million resulting from a catastrophic loss at a regional composting facility in Hartford, Connecticut.
      • Represented property insurers regarding coverage and claim analysis for property insurance claims for damage relating to presence of mold in a public school building.

      • Defended insurer in a case brought in the Central District of California in which the plaintiff sought to bring a class action involving two classes of allegedly aggrieved policyholders. The first class was allegedly deprived of payment of general contractor overhead and profit as a part of its damages. The second class was allegedly deprived of payment of sales tax as a part of its damages. After extensive discovery and motion practice, the class action allegations were voluntarily dismissed and the case was resolved on favorable terms.

      • Representation of insurers in complex insurance dispute in federal court, Eastern District of Louisiana, involving Hurricane Katrina property damage and business interruption claim for over $27 million and bad faith claims of over $100 million, where bad faith claims were dismissed based on summary judgment briefing and expert was precluded from testifying as to damages included in initial report based on motion in limine. The plaintiff voluntarily dismissed the case for the purpose of taking an appeal, and the district court's rulings were affirmed on appeal.

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    • Professional Associations

      Professional Associations

      American College of Trial Lawyers
      Fellow
      Chair, Connecticut State Committee (2014 - 2016)
      Member, Federal Civil Procedure Committee (2015 - present)

      Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel
      Foundation Board of Directors (2015 - present)
      Admissions Committee (2001 - 2007)
      Board of Directors (2002 - 2009)
      Chair of Class Action Section
      Chair of Ethics and Professionalism Section (2001 - 2002)
      Chair of Property Insurance Section (1998 - 2001)
      Executive Committee (2007 - 2009)
      Vice President (2002 - 2005)

      International Association of Defense Counsel
      Property Insurance Committee

      American Bar Association
      Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section; Past Chair of Property Insurance Law Committee

      American College of Coverage Counsel
      Fellow

      American Bar Foundation
      Fellow

      Connecticut Bar Foundation
      James W. Cooper Fellow

      Loss Executives Association

      Connecticut Defense Lawyers Association

      National Center for State Courts
      Lawyers Committee
    • Honors + Awards

      Honors + Awards

      Presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Connecticut Law Tribune, 2021

      Selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the area of Insurance Law since 2006.

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

      Listed in The Best Lawyers in America© as Hartford Lawyer of the Year in the area of Insurance Law for 2011, 2016, and 2018

      Selected to the Top 50 Connecticut Super Lawyers list in 2009.

      Hartford County Bar Association, Public Service Award, 2002

      Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel, John Alan Appleman Award, 2001

      Best Appellate Brief in Connecticut, awarded by University of Connecticut, 1992

    • Community Involvement

      Community Involvement

      University of Connecticut School of Law LL.M. Program
      served as Adjunct Professor, teaching course in property insurance law

      Western New England College
      served as Adjunct Professor, teaching course in trial practice

      Greater Hartford Legal Aid
      Board of Directors (1997 - 2002)

      Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation
      Board of Directors (2002 - present)

      The Village for Families & Children
      Board of Directors (2016 - present)
  • NEWS + PRESS
    • Publications

      Publications

      "Property Insurers' Rights and Obligations Under Policy Provisions that Provide Coverage of Personal Property on Others," published in Tort and Insurance Law Journal (Spring 1997)

      "The Standard Mortgage Clause in Property Insurance Policies," published in Tort and Insurance Law Journal (1997)

      "Coverage Under Property Insurance Policies for Personal Property of Others," published in Tort and Insurance Law Journal, also presented to the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel (1997)

      "Recent Developments in Property Insurance Law," published in Tort and Insurance Law Journal (Winter 1996)

      "First Party Pollution: Asbestos Coverage Issues," published in ABA Property Insurance Committee (1996)

      "Property Insurance Update," published in Federation of Insurance and Corporate Counsel Update (7/1995)

      "Property Insurance Law: 1991-1992 Developments," published in Tort and Insurance Law Journal (Winter 1992)

      "Protection of Insurance Company and Lawyer's Files, What Investigation Information if any, from both Good Faith and Strategy Standpoints Should be Shared with the Claimant Insured," published in Defense Research Institute (10/1991)

      "Asbestos Coverage Under Property Insurance Policies," published in Defense Research Institute (5/1991)

      "Conflicts Creating Ethical Dilemas for the Property Insurance Attorney," published in ABA Property Insurance Committee, Tort and Insurance Practice Section (3/1990)

      "Reservation of Rights Letters," published in Defense Research Institute (1988)

      "The Broker, The Agent and Good Faith - Caught in the Middle," published in ABA Property Insurance Committee, TIPS National Institute (3/1987)

      "The Standard Mortgage Clause - Protecting All Parties," published in American Bar Association Monograph (1987)

    • Presentations

      Presentations

      "COVID-19: At the Intersection of Property Insurance and Science," co-presented with Daniel F. Sullivan and J. Tyler Butts, joined by experts in biophysics, toxicology and industrial hygiene for an interactive discussion of the science behind COVID-19. (4/6/2020)
      • » more info

        • COVID-19: At the Intersection of Property Insurance and Science

        "COVID-19: At the Intersection of Property Insurance and Science," co-presented by Stephen E. Goldman, Daniel F. Sullivan and J. Tyler Butts, joined by experts in biophysics, toxicology and industrial hygiene for an interactive discussion of the science behind COVID-19. (4/6/2020)

        Property Insurance Coverage Litigation team members Stephen Goldman (co-chair), Dan Sullivan and J. Tyler Butts presented the webinar "COVID-19: At the Intersection of Property Insurance and Science" on April 6, 2020. The number and complexity of insurance coverage issues emerging from the global COVID-19 pandemic are increasing with each passing day. As insurance companies respond to the influx of new and unique claims, Robinson+Cole continues to provide a forum for the discussion of the emerging issues.

        In this webinar, the second in a series presented by R+C, they were joined by experts in biophysics, toxicology and industrial hygiene for an interactive discussion of the science behind COVID-19. Building on that foundation, this discussion explored key business interruption issues arising from COVID-19 claims, including:

        • The properties and behavior of COVID-19: What is unique about this virus? How long can it survive on surfaces? Are there any long-term effects to property?
        • Protocols for decontamination, remediation and post-clearance testing of property affected by coronavirus
        • Whether the Virus exclusion, the Pollution exclusion or the Contamination exclusion apply to bar coverage for property exposed to COVID-19
        • Measuring the “period of restoration” for restoring property affected by COVID-19
        • Whether Extended Period of Indemnity coverage applies to business interruption losses stemming from COVID-19 contamination

         


      "Business Interruption Issues Arising from Hurricanes," co-presented with Wystan M. Ackerman, Eugene P. Murphy and Daniel F. Sullivan, at in-house presentation to 60 in-house lawyers and claim adjusters in New York, New York. (11/14/2017)

      "Strategies for Dealing with Difficult Opposing Counsel in Complex Litigation," at Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel's Annual Meeting, Hot Springs, Virginia (8/2009)

      "Layered and Quota-Share Property Insurance Claims and Litigation," at Property Loss Research Bureau (PLRB) annual Claims Conference in Seattle, Washington (March 2009)

      "Roundtable - Coverage and Litigation Issues Arising Out of the 2004 and 2005 Hurricanes," at Annual Spring CLE Meeting of the Property Insurance Law Committee of the Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section of the American Bar Association (Spring 2006)

      "Property Insurance and Business Interruption Issues Arising Out of Catastrophes," at European Meeting of Excess/Surplus Lines Claims Association, Zurich, Switzerland (11/2005)

      "The Different Types of Business Interruption Coverage," at Property Loss Research Bureau (4/2005)

      "The Different Types of Business Interruption Coverage," at Defense Research Institute (4/2005)

      "Period of Restoration," at joint meeting of Property Loss Research Bureau and Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel (9/2004)

      "Business Interruption Coverage: What is Interruption, Extra Expense, How Do Policy Forms Differ?" at Property Loss Research Bureau (3/2004)

      "Appraisal in Large Losses--What Are the Unique Aspects?" at Loss Executives Association (2004)

      "The Direct Physical Loss Requirement: Does It Still Exist?" at New England Claim Executives Association (3/11/2003)
      • » more info

        • The Direct Physical Loss Requirement: Does It Still Exist?

        "The Direct Physical Loss Requirement: Does It Still Exist?" at New England Claim Executives Association, presented by Stephen E. Goldman (3/11/2003)
        A number of courts and commentators have shown a preference for literal interpretation of the phrase “direct physical loss or damage,” and have excluded from that definition losses that are purely economic in nature.

      "Different Types of Business Interruption Coverage," at Property Loss Research Bureau (2003)

      "The Direct Physical Loss Requirement: Does It Still Exist?" at Loss Executives Association (2003)

      "Re-Examining Liability in the Face of Terrorism: Property Insurance," at Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel 2002 Risk Analysis Symposium (5/2002)

      "Bio-Terrorism Coverage Issues," at Property Loss Research Bureau Symposium, Impact of Terrorism on Claims (1/31/2002)

      "Coverage Under Property Insurance Policies for Loss of Data and Loss of Software," at Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel and Underwriters at Lloyds, Lloyds Library (7/2001)

      "Appraisal Provisions in Property Insurance Policies," at Property Loss Research Bureau Symposium (2001, 2002)

      "Waivers of Subrogation in the AIA Contract," at Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel workshop (2/2000)

      "Coverage for Collapse Under Property Insurance Policies," at Defense Research Institute (1999)

      "Work Product and Attorney Client Privilege Issues Arising Out of Property Insurance Claims," presented at Mealey's (1999) and the Defense Research Institute (1988)

      "Coverage for Asbestos Removal Under Property Insurance Policies," at Property Insurance Committee of Tort & Insurance Practice Section of American Bar Association (1998)

      "The Impact of NFPA 921 on the Subrogating Property Insurer," at the Property Insurance Committee of Tort & Insurance Practice Section of American Bar Association (1997)

      "Conflicts Between Primary and Excess Property Insurers and Their Reinsurers Arising out of Catastrophe Losses," at the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel (1997)

      "Business Interruption Coverages," presented at a PLRB workshop (1991)

      "Actual Cash Value and the Broad Evidence Rule," presented at a PLRB workshop (1990)

      "Subrogation Against an Entity Insured by the Subrogating Insurer," at the American Bar Association Annual Meeting (1987)

    • News

      R+C in the News

      • June 7, 2021

        Steve Goldman and John Lynch featured in Connecticut Law Tribune's Coverage of Connecticut Legal Awards

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          Steve Goldman and John Lynch featured in Connecticut Law Tribune's Coverage of Connecticut Legal Awards

          Robinson+Cole immediate past Managing Partner Stephen E. Goldman and Diversity, Equity + Inclusion Committee Chair John B. Lynch, Jr. were featured in recent Connecticut Law Tribune articles covering the recognitions they received as part of the publication's 2021 Connecticut Legal Awards hosted on May 12, 2021. 

          Steve was one of two lawyers to be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award and was profiled in the article "Indelible Impact: This Year's Lifetime Achievement Awards" published on June 4, 2021. In addition to sharing highlights from Steve's legal career, the piece describes the Award as one that "often encompasses aspects of all other honors, epitomizing true greatness." Read the article. 

          A write-up on John was included in the article "Keeping the Conversation Going: 2021's Diversity Initiative Awards," also published on June 4, 2021. John was among the finalists for the first-ever Diversity Initiative Award. The article describes these leaders as "people who are dedicated to fairness and equity on the job and in their provision of legal services." Read the article. 

      • May 13, 2021

        Connecticut Law Tribune Honors Seven Robinson+Cole Lawyers During Connecticut Legal Awards

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          Connecticut Law Tribune Honors Seven Robinson+Cole Lawyers During Connecticut Legal Awards

          The Connecticut Law Tribune recognized Robinson+Cole lawyers Stephen E. Goldman, Lina M. Morkan, John B. Lynch, Jr., Gregory J. Bennici, Conor O. Duffy, Emilee Mooney Scott, and Jennifer L. Shanley during the publication’s annual Connecticut Legal Awards on May 12, 2021. Hosted virtually, the awards honor those attorneys and judges who have made a remarkable difference in the legal profession in Connecticut - whether in shaping the law, achieving outsized results for their clients, being an outstanding jurist or assisting those in need of legal services.

          Steve was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a lawyer “who has left a lasting imprint on the legal community of Connecticut.” Linda received the Distinguished Leader Award for achieving “impressive results in 2020 and demonstrating clear leadership skills that helped achieve those results.” John was honored as a finalist for the Diversity Initiative Award. A new recognition to the awards slate, the distinction honors a lawyer or firm who has made a significant contribution to diversity and inclusion efforts in Connecticut’s legal community. Greg, Conor, Emilee and Jen were all recognized as “New Leaders in the Law,” a distinction that spotlights lawyers under the age of 40 who have excelled in the courtroom, in client service and cultivation, in service to bar associations, and in performing pro bono work or community service in a volunteer capacity. View the complete list of honorees.

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      • March 28, 2019

        Robinson+Cole Sponsors World Affairs Council Event

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          Robinson+Cole Sponsors World Affairs Council Event

          Robinson+Cole was an event sponsor for the World Affairs Council of Connecticut’s Diplomat Reception 2019, to help foster global connections and expand the international reach of Hartford and Connecticut businesses. Held at the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford on March 19, 2019, diplomats from around the greater Connecticut region and representing more than 20 nations from the four corners of the globe. Firm attorneys William Egan, Stephen Goldman and Jeffrey White were pleased to attend the sold-out evening.

      • December 3, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Proudly Supports New Playground in Bushnell Park

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          Robinson+Cole Proudly Supports New Playground in Bushnell Park

          On November 17, 2018, the Bushnell Park Foundation hosted a grand opening in celebration of the new playground constructed in Hartford’s Bushnell Park. In appreciation of the firm’s generous financial support of the new playground, Managing Partner Stephen E. Goldman was among the dignitaries invited to participate in the grand opening ceremony, where both he and the firm were personally acknowledged and thanked for the firm’s meaningful contribution. In recognition of that support, Robinson+Cole’s name is proudly displayed on the playground’s entrance sign. Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group lawyer Jonathan H. Schaefer was also in attendance. Jon currently serves on the Bushnell Park Foundation Board of Directors. View photos from the grand opening.

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      • November 15, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Featured in Connecticut Law Tribune Article on Mentoring

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          Robinson+Cole Featured in Connecticut Law Tribune Article on Mentoring

          The firm was featured in the article “How a Big Law Firm Is Linking Parental Leave, Mentorship,” published in the Connecticut Law Tribune on November 13, 2018. The piece details Robinson+Cole’s enhanced focus on mentoring, which was the overarching theme emphasized during the recent all-attorney retreat. Public Finance Group lawyer Keisha S. Palmer shared her mentoring success story during the retreat and in the article. “It’s great to have someone who is your advocate while everyone is getting to know you,” she said.  In addition, Managing Partner, Stephen E. Goldman, described how the firm is going beyond the traditional mentoring model to include reverse mentoring and a new mentoring program for attorneys taking parental leave as a means of furthering retention. “’Mentoring and the retention of attorneys is intertwined, Goldman said. ‘People want to stay with us because they feel there is a path for them to succeed at Robinson & Cole.’” Read the full article.

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      • October 18, 2018

        51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          51 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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      • 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.

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      • November 21, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Participate at HarrisMartin's Hurricanes Irma & Maria Conference

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Participate at HarrisMartin's Hurricanes Irma & Maria Conference

          Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers presented at HarrisMartin's Hurricanes Irma & Maria Conference in Miami Beach, Florida, on November 14, 2017. Managing Partner Stephen E. Goldman was co-chair of the event. Gregory P. Varga provided a forecast of the unique insurance coverage and loss measurement issues that are anticipated to arise from business interruption claims filed in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Jonathan E. Small spoke on "Flood, Wind, and Concurrent Causation" and "Unique Insurance and Class Action Litigation Following Irma and Maria." Laura Farach led panel discussions on complex code upgrade coverage issues and litigation involving allegations of unfair claim settlement practices.

      • November 1, 2016

        Robinson+Cole's Environmental + Utilities Group Holds Annual Summit

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          Robinson+Cole's Environmental + Utilities Group Holds Annual Summit

          The Environmental + Utilities Group held its annual team and client summit on the latest updates on environmental law in Newport, Rhode Island, held from September 28 to 30, 2016. Based on client input, the group introduced an interactive public relations exercise, discussed chemical regulation (TSCA reform), and covered a host of emerging EHS/energy topics, including vapor intrusion, environmental justice, and citizen science, and presented the results of our Environmental Health and Safety Transactional Benchmarking Survey. Key contacts in attendance included Pfizer, UTC, Ahold USA, and Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 

          Please view photos of Earl Phillips, Joey Lee Miranda, Steve Goldman, and others as they participated in a lively game of croquet before the dinner at the International Tennis Hall of Fame on September 29. Click here to view photos.

      • June 6, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Sponsors George W. Crawford Black Bar Association's 2016 Annual Dinner

      • February 25, 2016

        Media Outlet Covers Firm’s Pick of Stephen Goldman as Managing Partner

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          Media Outlet Covers Firm’s Pick of Stephen Goldman as Managing Partner

          The Connecticut Law Tribune covered Stephen E. Goldman’s recent election as Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. Mr. Goldman has been a trial lawyer at the firm since 1980 with a focus on insurance coverage and class action litigation. During his career, he has tried approximately 30 cases to conclusion throughout the United States, has handled numerous federal and state appeals in multiple jurisdictions, including the Supreme Court of the United States, and has served as lead counsel in many cases with high national visibility. Click here to read the article, "Robinson & Cole Taps Experienced Litigator as New Managing Partner," in the Connecticut Law Tribune.

      • March 21, 2013

        U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Standard Fire Insurance Company v. Knowles, A Class Action Fairness Act Case

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          U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Standard Fire Insurance Company v. Knowles, A Class Action Fairness Act Case

          On March 19, 2013, the United States Supreme Court issued its opinion in The Standard Fire Insurance Company v. Knowles, No. 11-1450. This is the first case that the U.S. Supreme Court has reviewed involving the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 (CAFA). In a unanimous opinion authored by Justice Breyer the Court overturned the district court’s decision remanding a putative class action to state court. The Court held that a stipulation filed by the named plaintiff together with the complaint, concerning the amount in controversy under CAFA, must be ignored. The Court explained, among other things, that the named plaintiff had no right to bind the absent members of the proposed class at the time suit was filed, and jurisdiction must be determined as of the time of filing.

          In Knowles, the federal district court had found the plaintiff’s stipulation was enforceable and remanded the case to state court. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit denied the petition for permission to appeal under CAFA, and denied rehearing en banc. In August of 2012, the Supreme Court granted the petition for certiorari. Stephen E. Goldman and Wystan M. Ackerman of Robinson & Cole were lead counsel on the successful petition for certiorari and co-counsel on the merits.

          DISCLAIMER: Please understand that every case is different and the result achieved in the case described above may differ from the result in some other case, which may involve different facts, different applicable law or a different jurisdiction. Past results do not guarantee future results, and you should always consult your own lawyer about your own case.
      • May 31, 2011

        Insurance Attorney Leads Pro Bono Session for Legal Aid Lawyers

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          Insurance Attorney Leads Pro Bono Session for Legal Aid Lawyers

          Insurance partner Stephen E. Goldman cochaired the second annual Connecticut State Committee of the American College of Trial Lawyers one-day training session for legal aid lawyers with Frank J. Silvestri Jr. of Levett Rockwood P.C. The session, held April 29, 2011, covered legal topics, including trying fraud cases and examining expert witnesses.
      • March 30, 2009

        Robinson & Cole Partners Speak at Annual PLRB Claims Conference

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          Robinson & Cole Partners Speak at Annual PLRB Claims Conference

          In March 2009, Insurance & Reinsurance Group partners Gregory P. Varga and Stephen E. Goldman gave separate presentations to the Property Loss Research Bureau (PLRB) annual Claims Conference in Seattle, Washington. The Claims Conference is the preeminent national conference for claims executives and professionals in the property and casualty insurance industry. Mr. Varga’s presentation was entitled "Complex Hardware and Software Losses," and imparted practical advice for the investigation, analysis and adjustment of complex electronic data processing (EDP) claims. Mr. Goldman’s presentation was entitled "Layered and Quota-Share Property Insurance Claims and Litigation." His panel examined and provided recommendations for working through the conflicts that commonly arise between primary and excess property insurers and between multiple insurers providing quota-share coverage in the same layer of insurance.
      • October 30, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Insurance Attorneys Speak at PLRB/FDCC Seminar

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          Robinson & Cole Insurance Attorneys Speak at PLRB/FDCC Seminar

          Insurance attorneys Stephen E. Goldman and Rebecca Levy-Sachs recently presented at the "Critical Issues for Senior Insurance Executives and In-House Counsel" seminar in Chicago, IL, co-sponsored by the Property Loss Research Bureau and the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel. Chairing this year's program, Ms. Levy-Sachs delivered a lecture entitled "Litigation Holds: What You Will Need to Know About E-Discovery." In addition, Mr. Goldman presented "Dollars & Sense: Loss of Market, Business Interruption, Contingent Business Interruption & Creative Lawyering."
      • April 10, 2008

        Robinson & Cole Partner Admitted to American College of Trial Lawyers

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          Robinson & Cole Partner Admitted to American College of Trial Lawyers

          Stephen E. Goldman has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the most widely known legal associations in America. To read press release, please click here.
      • June 15, 2001

        Hartford partner receives 2001 John Alan Appleman Award

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          Hartford partner receives 2001 John Alan Appleman Award

          Hartford Partner Steve Goldman recently received the 2001 John Alan Appleman Award from the Federation of Insurance & Corporate Counsel (FICC) for his outstanding contributions to advancing its educational goals and reputation. Steve has chaired the FICC's Property Insurance Section for the past three years. Through the work of his section, Steve clearly demonstrated the leadership and dedication this award honors. Robinson & Cole proudly congratulates Steve Goldman on the recognition of his leadership talents.

      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.

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      • 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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      • 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.

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      • 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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      • August 20, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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      • October 19, 2019

        52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

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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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      • June 11, 2018

        Robinson+Cole Honored by Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation as a “Leader for Justice”

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          Robinson+Cole Honored by Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation as a “Leader for Justice”

          The Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation (GHLAF) honored Robinson+Cole during its Celebrating Leaders for Justice event at the Pond House Café in West Hartford on May 30, 2018. The event honors leaders in the legal industry who have dedicated their time, expertise, and financial resources to help Greater Hartford Legal Aid (GHLA) end poverty and fight for justice in the Greater Hartford area. 

          “Robinson+Cole has been an estimable partner to GHLA since its inception in 1958, helping GHLA to provide core legal aid to hundreds of thousands of clients over those decades,” said GHLAF President Ricardo Anzaldua. “Since The Foundation's incorporation, Robinson+Cole has been a generous and consistent supporter, singlehandedly contributing over $559,000 to support GHLA's work.” Read more and view a photo in the press release.

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      • October 17, 2017

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

          See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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      • 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.

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      • December 9, 2016

        Steve Goldman Elected to The Village Board of Directors

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          Steve Goldman Elected to The Village Board of Directors

          The Village for Families & Children (The Village), a nonprofit that helps over 8,000 children and at-risk families throughout the Greater Hartford region each year, has appointed Robinson+Cole managing partner Stephen E. Goldman to its Board of Directors.

          The mission of The Village is “to build a community of strong, healthy families who protect and nurture children.” Founded is 1809, The Village was one of the first organizations in the country to provide homes for neglected children. Today, it provides a full range of behavioral health treatment for children and youth, foster care and adoption, and community support services for children and their families in the Greater Hartford region.

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      • October 18, 2016

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 51 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2016. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 23 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” An explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology can be found here.

          See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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      • August 15, 2016

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

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

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

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

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

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      • February 19, 2016

        Stephen E. Goldman Elected Robinson+Cole Managing Partner

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          Stephen E. Goldman Elected Robinson+Cole Managing Partner

          Stephen E. Goldman has been elected Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. Steve Goldman succeeds John B. Lynch, Jr. who led the firm for seven years. Additionally, Gregory R. Faulkner, from the firm's Hartford office, has been elected to the Managing Committee. 

          A trial lawyer at Robinson+Cole since 1980 with a focus on insurance coverage and class action litigation, Mr. Goldman has tried approximately 30 cases to conclusion in a wide range of jurisdictions throughout the United States, has handled numerous federal and state appeals in multiple jurisdictions, including the Supreme Court of the United States, and has served as lead counsel in many cases that have had high national visibility. Read more in the full release.

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      • October 19, 2015

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

          A total of 54 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island for 2015. The Super Lawyers designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.
          In addition, 21 attorneys at the firm were recognized as “Rising Stars.” Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here. See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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      • August 18, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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      • December 17, 2014

        Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation Recognizes Robinson+Cole for a Century of Support

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          Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation Recognizes Robinson+Cole for a Century of Support

          The Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation (GHLAF) recognized Robinson+Cole at the foundation’s celebration of “A Tradition of Justice: 100 Years of Legal Aid in Hartford” on November 12, 2014, at Hartford City Hall. Robinson+Cole partners and GHLAF board members Stephen E. Goldman and Norman H. Roos attended the event, where the firm was presented with a plaque in appreciation of its support of GHLAF, and for its century-long commitment to justice for those living in poverty. In addition, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal recognized Robinson+Cole in connection with this effort by presenting a certificate of special recognition to the firm. Read more here.
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      • October 17, 2014

        Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers

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          Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers

          A total of 54 Robinson+Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York for 2014.The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 21 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

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

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      • August 19, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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      • August 16, 2013

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

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

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

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

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      • October 22, 2012

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

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

          A total of 49 Robinson & Cole attorneys were named Super Lawyers® in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island for 2012. The Super Lawyers® designation is based on regional balloting by attorneys, third-party research, and a peer review process encompassing myriad practice areas.

          In addition, 26 attorneys at the firm were recognized as "Rising Stars." Read an explanation of the Super Lawyers methodology here.

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

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      • August 28, 2012

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

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

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

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

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      • September 12, 2011

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

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

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

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

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      • November 10, 2010

        Best Lawyers Names Five Robinson & Cole Attorneys as Lawyers of the Year, Most Chosen in the Hartford Community

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          Best Lawyers Names Five Robinson & Cole Attorneys as Lawyers of the Year, Most Chosen in the Hartford Community

          The Best Lawyers in America® (Copyright 2010 by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, SC) has named its 2011 "Lawyers of the Year," each of whom represents a significant practice area in a large legal community. Five Robinson & Cole LLP attorneys have received this designation in their respective practice areas, the most chosen from any law firm in the Hartford community. Those honored include the following:

          • Stephen E. Goldman, Hartford Insurance Lawyer of the Year
          • Edward J. Samorajczyk, Jr., Hartford Securities Lawyer of the Year
          • W. Richard Smith, Jr., Hartford Environmental Lawyer of the Year
          • Richard W. Tomeo, Hartford Tax Lawyer of the Year
          • James A. Wade, Hartford Bet-the-Company Litigator of the Year

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