Robinson+Cole Lawyers, Firm Receive “Top” Honors in JD Supra’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

JD Supra’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards have recognized Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyers Linn F. Freedman and Kathryn M. Rattigan as well as Class Action Defense Team chair Wystan M. Ackerman and Construction Law Group lawyer William S. Wilson II as "Top Authors." They were selected for their excellence from among more than 70,000 professionals whose 2022 published insights and commentary were read by C-suite executives, in-house counsel, media, and others across many industries highlighted on the JD Supra platform and who are interested in the defining topics impacting business today.

Linn was announced as the #1 author in the area of Cybersecurity for the eighth consecutive year. She is the chair of the firm's Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team and editor of the Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Kathryn was also named a Top Author in the area of Cybersecurity for a third time and is a regular author on the Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Additionally, Robinson+Cole was once again recognized as a Top Firm in the area of Cybersecurity.

Wystan is editor of the firm’s Class Actions Insider blog and was recognized as a Top Author in the area of class action. Bill is regular contributor to the firm's Construction Law Zone blog and received a "top" designation in the area of construction. 

The Readers’ Choice Awards acknowledge authors for “their visibility and thought leadership” as well as consistently high readership for all of 2022 in covering 31 key, cross-industry topics (10 authors per category) chosen for their timeliness as well as their proven, ongoing importance. Firms are highlighted “for their visibility and engagement” in the 31 topic areas covered by the awards (one firm per category). The Awards reflect a deep dive into JD Supra’s 2022 readership data.

Kathryn Rattigan Advises About Drones on Campus for Security magazine

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team and Education Industry Team member Kathryn Rattigan authored the article, “Educational institutions should consider devising a drone policy,” published in Security magazine on January 30, 2023. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has set a standard for drone regulation, many smaller localities have issued stricter rules. With the continuing evolution and sophistication of drones, colleges and universities should consider developing policies that address “the three types of operators flying [drones] on college campuses: commercial, recreational and educational or classroom/research operators,” and “vesting drone policy and enforcement responsibility in a single position.” Drone policies should require compliance with FAA regulations specific to the category of drone operator and should be updated to reflect changes made by the FAA. Kathryn suggests that, “Now is the time to create these policies and infrastructure to allow for safe and educational use of drones on your campus.” Read the full article.

R+C to Participate in RWU Law’s Pro Bono Collaborative Racial Justice Challenge

Robinson+Cole will take part in the 2023 “Pro Bono Collaborative Racial Justice Challenge: Housing Law,” presented by Roger Williams University (RWU) School of Law. In addition to continuing its pro bono work in the community engaging law firms and individual attorneys, law students and community organizations, RWU Law’s Pro Bono Collaborative (PBC) is launching this education and awareness-raising campaign around racial justice issues, with a focus on housing. From February 1 through May 31, 2023, participants are encouraged to select one challenge from each of four categories: Read, Watch, Listen, and Do. Those taking part in the Challenge will be recognized on RWU Law’s website and through its social media channels, and law firms and community organizations will be provided with a “challenge logo” to display on their organization’s website. Kathryn Rattigan is a PBC Advisory Board member and a graduate of the RWU Law and Linn Freedman is an adjunct professor at RWU Law. A kick-off Zoom event, “What Does Housing Have To Do With Race?,” will be held on February 15, 2023, from 6-7 pm. To register, click here. For more information, to sign up for the Challenge, and to see additional resources on housing-related segregation issues, click here.

Kathryn Rattigan Authors University Business Article on Ransomware Attacks in Higher Education

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team and Education Industry Team member Kathryn Rattigan authored the article, “Ransomware Attacks in Higher Ed: How You Can Protect Your Data and Mitigate Risks,” published in University Business on May 23, 2022. The article points out that educational institutions – and in particular colleges and universities – are among the most targeted by cybercriminals for ransomware attacks for a variety of reasons. They “possess a great deal of personal and sensitive information. For example, they routinely collect social security numbers and banking routing numbers of students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, many universities operate on-campus health clinics that maintain a trove of sensitive information. Research universities maintain confidential data relating to pending patents, research, and publications.” Kathryn indicates that “[a]t a minimum, universities should map their data (in particular, the sensitive or highly confidential, proprietary data) and conduct risk assessments to determine which systems are most vulnerable to compromise and which would cause the most damage in the event of a breach.” Read the full article.

Kathryn Rattigan and Blair Robinson Co-Author Drone Article Published in the Journal on Emerging Issues in Litigation

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team member, Kathryn Rattigan, and legal intern, Blair Robinson, co-authored the article “Flying Cameras: Gaps in Drone Regulation and How Courts Can Fill Them …at Least for Now,” published in the Journal on Emerging Issues in Litigation on April 28, 2022. Drones have rapidly transformed dozens of industries since hitting the commercial market, including agriculture, film and television production, and medical delivery services that can bring life-saving medications and vaccines to remote areas. However, as drones become increasingly commonplace, and in the absence of federal or state law or industry best practice in this emerging domain, lawmakers and policymakers are struggling with how to effectively regulate the unique privacy and cybersecurity risks posed by drone operations and the vulnerabilities they present for cyber-attacks. As the authors report, until federal regulation “catches up with the technology, lawyers could move courts to mitigate the issue by arguing for strict liability for drone operators and manufacturers.” Kathryn is a member of the Editorial Board of Advisors for the Journal on Emerging Issues in Litigation, a collaborative product from HB Litigation Conferences, Fastcase Full Court Press and Law Street Media, and the Emerging Litigation Podcast. Read the full article here. 

Robinson+Cole Lawyers, Firm Receive “Top” Honors in JD Supra’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards

JD Supra’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards have recognized Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyers Linn F. Freedman, Deborah A. George and Kathryn M. Rattigan as Top Authors and Robinson+Cole as a Top Law Firm in 2021.

Linn was announced as the #1 author in the area of Cybersecurity for the seventh consecutive year. She is the editor of the firm’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Deborah was recognized as a Top Author in the category of Data Privacy, while Kathryn was named a Top Author in the area of Cybersecurity for a second time. Deborah and Kathryn also contribute to the Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Additionally, Robinson+Cole was recognized as a Top Firm in the area of Cybersecurity.

The Readers’ Choice Awards acknowledge authors for “their thought leadership” and consistently high readership for all of 2021 in covering 28 key, cross-industry topics (10 authors per category) chosen for their timeliness as well as their proven, ongoing importance. Firms are highlighted “for their visibility and engagement” in the 28 topic areas covered by the awards (one firm per category). The Awards reflect a deep dive into JD Supra’s 2021 readership data. The outstanding authors were selected for their excellence from among more than 65,000 professionals whose published insights and commentary were read by C-suite executives, in-house counsel, media, and others across many industries highlighted on the JD Supra platform and who are interested in the defining topics impacting business today.

Kathryn Rattigan Discusses the "Internet of Things" on Emerging Litigation Podcast

Kathryn Rattigan, a member of the Business Litigation Group and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity and Drone Compliance Teams, was a guest November 30, 2021, on the Emerging Litigation Podcast “Broken Privilege and IoT.” Kathryn and host Tom Hagy discussed the connectivity of devices known as the “Internet of Things” (IoT) and the privacy concerns it creates for business professionals, such as attorneys, as well as consumers. Explaining the IoT, Kathryn described it as a “network of physical things such as thermostats, locks, and lights, that all have sensors and software and are exchanging data over the Internet.” There are currently about 10 billion devices connected, with that number anticipated to more than double by 2025. Asked how the IoT impacts privacy, Kathryn explained that it’s becoming more difficult to protect consumers. She noted, for example, that what we’re saying, our video footage, and when we’re turning lights on and off, are all creating data that are sent to and controlled by various companies, without our knowing exactly how the information is being used. When working from home became the norm during the pandemic, privacy concerns increased as smart devices could potentially collect information from privileged conversations. Kathryn suggested adopting protective measures, including disabling devices during certain time periods, changing “wake” words, and examining companies’ privacy policies. Listen to the full podcast.

Kathryn Rattigan Discusses Drone Law on “Emerging Litigation Podcast”

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was a guest on an episode of the “Emerging Litigation Podcast” that was posted on August 24, 2021. During the discussion with host Tom Hagy, Kathryn talks about some of the use cases for drones across multiple industries as well as drone compliance and privacy issues. The “Emerging Litigation Postcast” is the audio companion to the Journal on Emerging Issues in Litigation, a collaborative project between HB Litigation Conferences and the Fastcase legal research family. Listen to the podcast episode.

Kathryn Rattigan Quoted in Bloomberg Law Article on Cloud Data Security Shift

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team member Kathryn M. Rattigan was quoted in the article “Massive Ransomware Hits Likely to Hasten Cloud Security Shift” published in Bloomberg Law on June 4, 2021. The article covers how recent ransomware attacks have resulted in more organizations shifting toward cloud-based tools in lieu of traditional information technology security in an effort to better guard against cybercrime. Given that cloud companies can still be attacked, Kathryn stresses the importance of vetting vendors “since data breaches or other incidents can make companies incur large costs.” She also acknowledges that “[n]egotiating indemnification terms with larger cloud providers...can be difficult since they have so much sway in the market. But businesses can and should ‘shop around’ with small- to medium-sized cloud providers to make sure their security posture and contract provisions are up to snuff.” Read the full article.

Transactional Health Law Team Represents Visiting Nurse Association and BlackTree/Simione in Recent Deals

Robinson+Cole’s Transactional Health Law Group, led by co-chair Leslie J. Levinson, represented Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), a 125-year-old nonprofit in Omaha, NE and Council Bluffs, IA in the purchase of its home health and hospice operations by Amedisys, a leading national provider of home health, hospice, and personal care. Les served as prime counsel and led the team of Michael J. Kearney, Ryan V. Leichsenring, Virginia E. McGarrity, Kathryn M. Rattigan, Conor O. Duffy, Samuel C. Maduabueke and R+C alum Adam Tamzoke. The transaction is expected to close on or around July 1, 2021. Read more in the VNA press release.

In addition, the Transactional Health Law Group represented Connecticut-based Simione Healthcare Consultants and Pennsylvania-based BlackTree Healthcare Consulting in the execution of “a strategic and equal combination” to form SimiTree Healthcare Consulting. SimiTree will help post-acute healthcare organizations achieve clinical and financial excellence through consulting, outsourcing, and talent solutions. The merger is backed by Chicago-based health care PE firm Sheridan Capital, which focuses on lower-middle market buyouts and growth equity in the U.S. and Canada. Les led the team of Adam Anderson, Shant H. Chalian, Michael Kearney, Eric M. Kogan, Virginia McGarrity, Endicott Peabody IV, Kathryn Rattigan, Frank W. Eucalitto, and Michael G. Lisitano. Read more in Home Health Care News.

Kathryn Rattigan Discusses Benefits of Legal Blogging on LexBlog Podcast

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was a guest on the LexBlog podcast “This Week in Legal Blogging” podcast released on April 23, 2021. Kathryn actively contributes to Robinson+Cole’s widely-recognized Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog, which is part of LexBlog’s network of legal blogs. Her blog work has been honored in the annual JD Supra Readers' Choice Awards where she has been awarded as a “Top Author” since 2016 and was the #1 author in the area of Airlines/Aviation in 2020 and 2018. Similarly, Kathryn was recognized as a 2020 National Law Review Go-To Thought Leader in the area of Cybersecurity Law.

During the podcast episode, titled “Kathryn Rattigan of Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider on blogging’s benefits over other forms of legal writing,” Kathryn shares her professional background, what led to the launch of the Insider blog and some of the keys to its success, the benefits of blogging, and takeaways for creating meaningful blog content. Listen to the episode.

Dana Horton and Kathryn Rattigan Profiled in Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly Excellence in the Law 2021 Special Section

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan were profiled in a special section of Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly commemorating the publication’s 2021 Excellence in the Law honorees. Dana appears in the Leaders in the Law section, which honors the current leaders of the bar, drawn from across the spectrum of the legal profession. Kathryn is featured in the Up & Coming Lawyers section. An honor saluting “the rising stars of the Rhode Island Bar” who “have been practicing and admitted to the RI Bar for 10 years or less yet, have already distinguished themselves in the practice of law.” View the special section.

The winners will be recognized during a special online ceremony on April 8.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Receive “Top” Honors in JD Supra’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards

JD Supra’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards recognized Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyers Linn F. Freedman and Kathryn M. Rattigan and Health Law Group lawyer Conor O. Duffy as outstanding authors among more than 58,000 authors who published insights and commentary on JD Supra in 2020. Linn was announced as the #1 author in the area of cybersecurity, for the 6th consecutive year. She is the editor of the firm’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Kathryn was recognized as a Top Author in the areas of cybersecurity and transportation. She also contributes to the Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Conor was named a Top Author in the area of healthcare. He contributes to the Data Privacy + Security Insider and is also co-editor the firm’s Health Law Diagnosis blog. In addition, Robinson+Cole was recognized as a Top Firm in the area of cybersecurity. The Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top authors and firms who were read by C-suite executives, in-house counsel, media, and other professionals across the JD Supra platform during 2020. Read more.

Transactional Health Law Team Represents ViaQuest in Significant Investment Agreement

Robinson+Cole’s Transactional Health Law Group, led by co-chair Leslie J. Levinson, represented ViaQuest Holdings, Ltd. (ViaQuest) as legal counsel in connection with investment in the healthcare services provider by Council Capital, a healthcare-focused private equity firm based in Nashville, Tennessee. The R+C team also included Adam Anderson, Christine Bromberg, Ian Clarke-Fisher, Frank Eucalitto, Michael Kearney, Eric Kogan, Michael Lisitano, Virginia McGarrity, Kit Peabody, Kathryn Rattigan and Emilee Mooney Scott. ViaQuest, headquartered in Dublin,Ohio, is a leading provider of quality, highly-individualized and specialized cost-effective care, solutions and services focused on individuals with development disabilities; hospice care; and behavioral and mental health. All are seen as growing areas of the healthcare market. ViaQuest operates in Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Read the Press Release HERE.

Eric Keen, General Partner at Council Capital, was enthusiastic about the alignment of the two companies, seeing a good fit with Council Capital’s mandate of investing “on the right side of change” – where growth accelerates as cost pressure and quality demands increase. The private equity firm leverages its Council Model, which draws upon the experience and resources of its CEO Council, Strategic Healthcare Investors, and Value Creation Team, to attract and support leading management teams and portfolio companies. Keen noted that ViaQuest is “highly regarded and well-positioned within its service specialties.”

ViaQuest founder and CEO, Rich Johnson, will remain a significant investor and continue to lead the management team. Johnson said Council Capital’s “experience in our markets and the expertise and support provided through their CEO Council…and network of portfolio companies” were significant attractions that will support ViaQuest’s mission of offering “health, happiness and hope” as it continues to grow. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. This is the first platform investment from Council Capital IV, a $200 million fund that closed in November 2020.

Kathryn Rattigan Quoted in Law360 Article on FAA’s New Drone Rules

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was quoted in the article “FAA's New Drone Rules Only A 'Starting Point' For Businesses” published in Law360 on January 5, 2020. The article focuses on two final rules released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on December 28, which lifted its requirement that commercial operators obtain a waiver for drone flights over people, over moving vehicles and at night. In addition, the rules require drones to be remotely identifiable and locatable by the FAA. Kathryn noted that the related design standards included in the new FAA rules “could be positive for drone makers” as they will “likely cause a spike in drone sales and accessories” given the new ability for drone flights over people, over moving vehicles and at night. She also commented that the clause in the new rules allowing drones to fly over moving vehicles “is especially important for package delivery by drone…allowing for expanded operations in dense urban areas.” Subscribers can read the full article.  

Kathryn Rattigan Recognized in National Law Review’s “Go-To Thought Leadership Awards”

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was recognized as a 2020 National Law Review (NLR) Go-To Thought Leader in the area of cybersecurity law for her range of articles on data privacy, emerging technologies and the legislation and cybersecurity implications for specific industries via her regular contributions to the firm’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. The National Law Review’s “Go-To Thought Leadership Awards” recognized 70 legal authors and legal organizations, pulled from the 20,000+ of pieces of content published in 2020. “This is the third year the NLR editors have formally recognized the efforts of less than 1% of the publication’s 15,000 authors across a variety of legal specialties and in law practice management and operations.” View more information on the awards.

Kathryn Rattigan Authors Third Follow-up Article on MA Right to Repair Law Published on Westlaw Today

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan authored the article “Massachusetts ballot Question 1 still on the forefront as automakers sue to block its implementation” republished on Westlaw Today on December 10, 2020. The piece is a follow-up to a series of articles on the same topic republished on October 22, 2020 and August 26, 2020. All three pieces were originally published as posts on R+C’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog and focus on the, recently passed, Right to Repair' law, which expands access to certain diagnostic and repair data collected by onboard computer systems that is currently only accessible in 'real-time' by the manufacturers (and in turn, their dealers). The latest article examines a lawsuit filed against Massachusetts in federal court by a group of automakers through the Alliance for Automotive Innovation to block the new 'Right to Repair' law that passed on November 3, 2020. The lawsuit argues that the law will impose a financial burden on auto manufacturers and threatens the privacy of car owners by exposing data from their vehicles. Read the full article.

Kathryn Rattigan Quoted on Massachusetts Right to Repair Law in Bloomberg Law Article

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team member Kathryn M. Rattigan was quoted in the article “Massachusetts Right to Repair Law Raises Data Security Concerns” published by Bloomberg Law on November 5, 2020. The article examines a new law in Massachusetts that expands consumer and auto repair shop access to wireless diagnostic and repair information, which according to lawyers, could potentially open data up to breaches and the prospect of privacy litigation. “Massachusetts residents should use the passage of the ballot measure as a ‘wake-up call’ to educate themselves on what kinds of data sharing their cars and phones are already doing, Rattigan said.” Kathryn has covered Massachusetts Ballot 1 in recent posts published on the firm’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog. Read the full article.

Kathryn Rattigan Authors Follow-up Article on MA Automobile Open Data Platform Vote Published on Westlaw Today

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan authored the article “A deeper dive into the privacy + cybersecurity concerns about Massachusetts' ballot question 1” republished on Westlaw Today on October 22, 2020. The piece is a follow-up to an article on the same topic republished on August 26, 2020. Both pieces were originally published as posts on R+C’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog and examine a Massachusetts ballot question that would require a standardized, open data platform for vehicles equipped with telematics systems. The recent article focuses on the notion that the ballot question stands to close a loophole in the "Right to Repair" law that was first passed in 2013 and exempts manufacturers from sharing data transmitted wirelessly from the vehicle to the manufacturer. Read the full article.

Kathryn Rattigan Featured in Intellectual Property Magazine Podcast on Autonomous Ships

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was among the panelists featured in the IPM (Intellectual Property Magazine) Podcast “Setting Sail for Autonomous Ships” posted to the publication’s website on September 3, 2020. The discussion focused on the rise of autonomous ships and how artificial intelligence could change the maritime industry forever. Panelists outlined the challenges AI-controlled ships face being brought to market, whether autonomous ships face an easier ride than their land or air-based contemporaries in terms of development and implementation, and what cybersecurity issues could impact this game-changing innovation. Listen to the podcast.

Kathryn Rattigan Authors Article on Massachusetts Automobile Open Data Platform Vote Published on Westlaw Today

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan authored the article “Massachusetts Ballot Question Poses Privacy Concerns” republished on Westlaw Today on August 26, 2020. Originally published as a post on R+C’s Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider blog, the article examines Ballot Question 1 in Massachusetts, which if passed in November, “would require car manufacturers that sell cars equipped with telematics systems (i.e., a method of monitoring a vehicle by combining a GPS system with on-board diagnostics to record – and map – exactly where a car is and how fast it’s traveling, etc.) to install a standardized, open data platform beginning with model year 2022.” Kathryn acknowledges that the “proposed open data platform may also present security risks to those providing the information. From loss of confidentiality, to the higher potential for compromising personal information, releasing data inherently puts the data at risk.” Read the full article.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Receive “Top” Honors in JD Supra’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards

JD Supra’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards recognized Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyers Linn F. Freedman and Kathryn M. Rattigan and Health Law Group lawyer Conor O. Duffy as outstanding authors among over 50,000 authors who published insights and commentary on JD Supra in 2019. Linn was announced as the #1 author in the area of cybersecurity and a Top Author in the area of class action. She is the editor of the firm’s Data Privacy + Security Insider blog. Kathryn was recognized as a Top Author in the area of airlines/aviation and cybersecurity. She also contributes to the Data Privacy + Security Insider blog. Conor was named a Top Author in the area of healthcare. He contributes to the Data Privacy + Security Insider as well as the firm’s Health Law Diagnosis blog. The Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top authors and firms who were read by C-suite executives, in-house counsel, media, and other professionals across the JD Supra platform during 2019.

Kathryn Rattigan Quoted in Legaltech News Article on Cyber Risks in the Legalized Cannabis Industry

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was quoted in the article " Up in Smoke? Burgeoning Legalized Cannabis Industry Faces Unique Cyber Risks" published in Legaltech News on November 21, 2019. The article covers how the legalized cannabis industry’s storage of personally identifiable information and reliance on seed-to-sale tracking makes it particularly susceptible to cybersecurity threats. “Just because there’s more physical cash than electronic transactions, doesn’t necessarily make these companies less of a target for hackers,” she said. “Most of the point-of-sale systems automatically report to the state’s compliance tracking system, which might include the individual’s name, birth date and contact information based on the scanning of a driver’s license or state-issued ID card.” Read the article.

Kathryn Rattigan Is a Presenter and Panelist at Information Management Conference

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Group lawyer Kathryn Rattigan presented “Drones in the National Airspace: Threats and Mitigation of Risk” at the INFORM 2019 conference at Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey on June 13, 2019. In her program, Kathryn discussed advances in drone technology and the related implications.

Kathryn also was part of the panel “Surviving a Data Breach.” The panel discussion included experts in the fields of privacy, data security, public relations and reputation management, and addressed critical and sensitive issues such as:
•  protecting your company from a data breach 
•  the reporting/notification requirements for different industries
•  how to work with the FBI
•  evidence preservation and maintaining logs for internal use and law enforcement
•  handling requests from regulators, credit monitoring companies, and others
•  managing your reputation internally and externally, and 
•  moving past a data breach. 

The conference was a two-day Information Management event hosted by ARMA New Jersey, which offered sessions focused on Records and Information Management & Information Governance (IG) practices, Privacy, Security & Risk issues, and Strategy & Communications, as well as other trending IG updates to cutting-edge technology impacting the way we work.
 

Kathryn Rattigan Presents on "Cybersecurity in the Commercial Drone Industry" at Boston Bar Association

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Group lawyer Kathryn Rattigan presented the program "Cybersecurity in the Commercial Drone Industry: Threats and Mitigation of Risk," hosted by the Boston Bar Association on May 23, 2019.  As drones extend further into areas of modern life, from package delivery to commercial surveillance, the law is straining to keep pace with technological advancements.  

During the brown bag seminar, Kathryn discussed how drones can be used to collect valuable data and increase the productivity, safety, and efficiency of organizations across many industries. She also provided an overview of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 107 regulations, waivers, the FAA “DroneZone,” and the FAA’s LAANC portal. In addition, she spoke about the onslaught of cybersecurity concerns and threats that must be better understood in order to allow drones to continue to operate safely in the national airspace.
 

Providence Office Honored by United Way of Rhode Island

Earlier this month, Brenda Vucci were honored at the United Way of Rhode Island’s "Campaign Leaders Thank You Luncheon" held at Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. The luncheon celebrated contributions and success in the 2018-2019 United Way campaign and recognized the top fundraisers among small, mid-size, and major companies in Rhode Island. Brenda and Peter were honored by the organization as “Change Makers,” defined as “dedicated Campaign Leaders and Committee members who inspire their colleagues to change lives and strengthen our community.” Kathryn Rattigan and Brenda attended the luncheon on behalf of Robinson+Cole. 

Kathryn Rattigan Presents on Data Privacy and Security in the Cannabis Industry

Kathryn Rattigan presented a webinar on "Data Privacy and Security in the Cannabis Industry" hosted by myLawCLE and the Federal Bar Association on May 7, 2019. There are currently 33 states that allow some form of medical marijuana and 10 states (plus the District of Columbia) that have legalized recreational use. This has created a multitude of business opportunities, but it has also raised questions and created uncertainties for businesses. Beyond the regulatory requirements, businesses must consider the data privacy and security risks to their business as well. It is not only important for companies in the cannabis industry to keep up with the changing legislative landscape, but also with the cyber-threats that can pose a substantial risk to both their businesses and their customers. The two-hour broadcast covered:

• The current landscape for medical and recreational use of marijuana across the country;
• The types of sensitive—and protected—information that companies in the cannabis industry collect and possess;
• Recent and continued risks and threats to data; and
• Tips for protecting and securing the data collected by these businesses.

Robinson+Cole Receives “Top” Honors in JD Supra’s 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards

JD Supra’s 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards named Robinson+Cole the Top Firm on the subject of cybersecurity for the fourth consecutive year as well as a thought leader in that area, recognizing the firm “for achieving the highest visibility and engagement among readers for (its) particular expertise.” Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyers Linn F. Freedman and Kathryn M. Rattigan and Health Law Group lawyer Conor O. Duffy were recognized as outstanding authors among some 50,000 authors who published insights and commentary on JD Supra in 2018. Linn was announced as the #1 author in the area of cybersecurity and a Top Author in the area of class action. She is the editor of the firm’s Data Privacy + Security Insider blog. Kathryn was recognized as the #1 author in the area of airlines/aviation as well as a Top Author in the area of class action. She also contributes to the Data Privacy + Security Insider blog. Conor was named a Top Author in the area of healthcare. He contributes to the Data Privacy + Security Insider  as well as the firm’s Health Law Diagnosis blog. The Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top authors and firms who were read by C-suite executives, in-house counsel, media, and other professionals across the JD Supra platform during 2018.

Ben Jensen, Kathy Porter and Kathryn Rattigan Present at the 2019 Health Law Symposium

Data Privacy and Cybersecurity lawyers Benjamin C. Jensen, Kathleen M. Porter and Kathryn M. Rattigan were panelists at the 2019 Health Law Symposium in Boston on March 22, 2019. The day-long event, “Privacy, Cybersecurity, and the Health Care Industry: Threats, Risks and Mitigation,” was presented by the Massachusetts Bar Association and attended by some 60 people. 

Kathy and Ben spoke on “General Data Protection Regulation 101: What You Need to Know,” which addressed key elements of the European Economic Area’s recently adopted General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and what it means for U.S. companies. They highlighted the importance of understanding the different meaning of key terms such as “sensitive personal data,” “controller,” and “processing,” and some of the key changes the GDPR presents, such as its extraterritorial reach and the fact that simply complying with existing U.S. data privacy and security regulations is no longer sufficient. The presentation pointed out that the GDPR also brings with it greater accountability for companies and greater control for individuals, including changes to disclosure language and a strengthened emphasis on the “lawful basis” of consent of an individual data subject. 

Kathryn presented “How Safe Is Your Organization from Hackers? Recent Risks and Tips from an Insider,” which included an FBI Intelligence Analyst with the Bureau’s Cyber Task Force. They discussed how to identify and protect high risk data and reviewed recent and ongoing threats to information, such as phishing, ransomware, malware, and man-in-the-middle attacks, and the kinds of disruption they can cause organizations. The presentation also highlighted the laws that apply to such situations and how law enforcement and other government resources can assist businesses in addressing cyber threats.  
 

Kathryn Rattigan Appointed to Stonehill College President’s Advisory Group

Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan has been appointed to the President’s Advisory Group for Stonehill College, located in Easton, Massachusetts. The mission of the group is to complement the work of the College’s president and board of trustees by offering advice, guidance and recommendations on priority areas of the College. This includes, but is not limited to: marketing and branding, campus master planning, strategic planning, alumni engagement, resource development, and athletics. Kathryn received her B.A. from Stonehill College and will be serving a three-year term with the group.

Kathryn Rattigan Presents Program on Cybersecurity in the Commercial Drone Industry

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan presented a seminar on "Cybersecurity in the Commercial Drone Industry: Threats and Mitigation of Risk" in Newport, Rhode Island on November 14, 2018. Presented by the Pell Center, the program covered how drones can be used to collect valuable data and increase productivity, safety, and efficiency of organizations across all industries. Kathryn provided an overview of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 107 regulations, waivers, the FAA “DroneZone,” and the FAA’s LAANC portal. In addition, she addressed the onslaught of cybersecurity concerns and threats that should be better understood in order to allow drones to continue to operate safely in the national airspace.

Providence Office Participates in 2018 Rhode Island Walk for Epilepsy

Lawyers and staff from the Providence office, along with some of their family members, formed a Robinson+Cole team to participate in the 2018 Rhode Island Walk for Epilepsy at Slater Memorial Park in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on October 28, 2018. The team raised $2,000 in support of the Epilepsy Foundation New England, a non-profit organization that serves 100,000 people in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island who have epilepsy, and their families. View a photo from the walk.

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.

Kathryn Rattigan Presents LawPracticeCLE Program on Drone Law

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan presented a live broadcast on "Drone Law: An Overview of FAA Regulations and Privacy and Cybersecurity Considerations" on September 28, 2018. Hosted by LawPracticeCLE, the live webinar focused on how drones can collect valuable data and increase productivity, safety, and efficiency across all industries. Kathryn also covered the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 107 regulations, waivers, the FAA “DroneZone” and the FAA’s LAANC portal, enforcement at both the state and federal level, voluntary best privacy and security practices, and compliance with these regulations and practices.

Jim Merrifield and Kathryn Rattigan Give Keynote Presentations During InfoGovCon 2018

Information Governance, Risk & Compliance Manager James A. Merrifield and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan both gave keynote presentations during the 2018 Information Governance Conference (InfoGovCon) hosted from September 25-28, 2018 in Providence, Rhode Island. Presented by the Information Coalition, Kathryn delivered the opening keynote presentation on “Cybersecurity & the Commercial Drone Industry: Threats and Mitigation of Risk." The program covered how drones can collect valuable data and increase productivity, safety, and efficiency across all industries. Jim provided a welcome address during the Information Coalition Leadership Development Summit and was among the panelists that presented during a leadership development keynote panel with summit attendees. In addition, he participated in the “Conference Recap Closing Session with the Information Coalition Team.” Jim is the Vice President of the Information Coalition.

Natale DiNatale and Kathryn Rattigan Appointed to the Massachusetts Bar Association Health Law Section Council

The Massachusetts Bar Association (MBA) has appointed Labor and Employment Group lawyer Natale V. DiNatale and Business Litigation Group lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan to its Health Law Section Council. Ms. Rattigan will lead the section as Chair of the Council. She previously served as vice chair and is a frequent speaker for the MBA. The Health Law Section provides a discussion platform to improve the professional competence of attorneys dealing with health care issues through seminars and publications; strives to bring together all members interested in the practice and delivery of health care. Read more in the press release. 

Linn Freedman and Kathryn Rattigan Co-author Article Published in The Journal of Legal Nurse Consulting

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyers Linn F. Freedman and Kathryn M. Rattigan co-authored the article “The Intersection Between Medicine and Law: Legal Nurse Consultants’ Roles and Responsibilities under HIPAA,” published in The Journal of Legal Nurse Consulting (JLNC), the official journal of the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants (AALNC). In the article, Ms. Freedman and Ms. Rattigan provide an overview of the function of legal nurse consultants and offer insight on how and when the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) applies to them. “The bottom line is that legal nurse consultants are usually subject to HIPAA and state laws applicable to the access, use, and disclosure of health information, as well as contractual provisions set forth in business associate agreements.” View the entire article.

Kathryn Rattigan Shares Insights on Drones and FAA Regulations

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan presented a live broadcast on "Drones in the National Airspace: Where We Are & Where We are Heading, An Overview of FAA Regulations & Legal Hurdles" on May 10, 2018. Hosted by myLawCLE, the program discussed how drones can collect valuable data and increase productivity, safety, and efficiency across all industries. Drones are increasingly important for businesses of all types and sizes. Many drone applications already exist, but many more will certainly arise as drone technology continues to evolve and advance. Ms. Rattigan covered the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 107 regulations, waivers, the FAA “DroneZone” and the FAA’s LAANC portal. She also discussed enforcement at both the state and federal level, voluntary best privacy and security practices, and how clients can comply with these regulations and practices as they put drones to use.

Kathryn Rattigan Presents on the Future of Drones in Health Care

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan presented the program "Here Come the Drones: Navigating the Law while Using Drones in the Health Care Sector" on May 15, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. The 90-minute CLE seminar was hosted by the Massachusetts Bar Association and featured a discussion on the use of drones in the health care sector. Specific topics included:

• How drones are used in healthcare
• Telemedicine drone projects
• Laws "up in the air" and privacy and security concerns
• Predictions for the future

Robinson+Cole Receives “Top” Honors in JD Supra’s 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards

JD Supra has recognized Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Wystan M. Ackerman and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team Lawyers Linn F. Freedman and Kathryn M. Rattigan in its 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards. Mr. Ackerman is editor of the firm’s Class Actions Insider blog and was recognized as a Top Author in the area of class action. Ms. Freedman is the editor of the firm’s Data Privacy + Security Insider blog and was recognized as the #1 author in the area of cybersecurity. Ms. Rattigan also contributes to the firm’s Data Privacy + Security Insider blog and was recognized as the #1 author in the area of airlines/aviation. In addition, Robinson+Cole was recognized as the Top Firm on the subjects of cybersecurity and airlines/aviation. The Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top authors and firms who were read by C-suite executives, in-house counsel, media, and other professionals across the JD Supra platform during 2017.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Support Annual Bryant University Women’s Summit®

Robinson+Cole was a bronze sponsor of the Bryant University Women’s Summit® held on Friday, March 16, 2018, in Smithfield, Rhode Island. With over 1000 women in attendance, Robinson+Cole was the sole law firm sponsor. The mission of the Women's Summit is to empower women professionally, personally, and financially. The event features nationally recognized keynote speakers as well as breakout sessions led by experts in their fields, helping attendees experience renewed confidence and enthusiasm in approaching their personal and professional lives. Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Linn F. Freedman was among the summit’s speakers and presented the session "Take Control of Your Personal Information: Understanding the Risks and Rewards of Using Smartphones, Mobile Applications, and Social Media." Ms. Freedman provided practical tips for protecting against identify theft. This is the sixth year that Robinson+Cole has sponsored this event. Attendees included the following lawyers: Patricia J. Igoe, Dana M. Horton, Michele L. Maresca, Kathryn M. Rattigan, and Lisa C. Riccio along with their respective guests.

Kathryn Rattigan Presents on FAA Regulations for Drones

Data Privacy + Security Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan recently presented a live broadcast called, “Drones Take Flight! An Overview of FAA Regulations, Enforcement, and Best Practices in Privacy & Security.” During the two-hour April 26, 2017 broadcast presented by the Federal Bar Association, Ms. Rattigan discussed how drones can collect valuable data and increase productivity, safety, and efficiency across all industries. Ms. Rattigan also discussed the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 regulations, enforcement actions, voluntary best privacy and security practices, and how clients can comply with these regulations and practices when their drones hit the sky.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in JD Supra’s 2017 Readers Choice Awards

Richard Borden, Linn Freedman, Andrea Napp, and Kathryn Rattigan have been recognized as JD Supra Top Authors in JD Supra’s 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards. In addition, the firm was recognized as the Top Firm on the subject of cybersecurity.

The top authors were selected from more than 40,000 writers publishing on JD Supra in 2016 for their excellent visibility and engagement with readers in a specific industry or for thought leadership covering a key, cross-industry topic. Our lawyers were recognized as follows:

• Richard Borden—a Top Author on the subject of cybersecurity;
• Linn Freedman—a Top Author for the level of visibility and engagement attained with readers in the healthcare, insurance, banking/financial services, and defense & space industries. She was also the Top Author on the subject of cybersecurity;
• Andrea Napp—a Top Author on the subject of e-discovery; and
• Kathryn Rattigan—a Top Author with readers in the airline/aviation and class action defense industries. She was also the Top Author on the emerging topic of drones.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Attend Women's Summit at Bryant University

Robinson+Cole was a bronze sponsor of Bryant University's 20th annual Women's Summit, held on Friday, March 17, 2017, in Smithfield, Rhode Island. With over 1100 women in attendance, Robinson+Cole was the sole law firm sponsor. The Women's Summit programming is designed to help women navigate challenges and opportunities, while keeping up with the changing trends. The program features nationally known keynote speakers as well as breakout sessions led by experts in their fields, helping attendees experience renewed confidence and enthusiasm in approaching their personal and professional lives. This year's keynote speakers were Mary Kelly, an internationally renowned economist, author, and speaker; Leymah Gbowee, a 2011 Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Liberian peace activist, trained social worker, and women’s rights advocate; Geena Davis, Academy Award-winning actress and advocate for gender equality in media; and Debi Silber, a recognized health, mindset, and personal development expert.

This is the sixth year that the firm has sponsored this event. Attendees included the following lawyers: Patricia J. Igoe, Candace M. Cunningham, Dana M. Horton, Kathryn M. Rattigan, and Kathryn N. Mullin, along with their respective guests.  

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Speak on Drones in the Construction Industry

Data Privacy + Security Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan along with Ivan Stamatovski of Easy Aerial, presented "Drones in the Construction Industry: Gear Up for the Revolution" at the Robinson+Cole offices in Hartford, Connecticut, on January 27, 2017, and in New York City on February 23, 2017. Topics covered were how drones can monitor job sites, perform safety inspections, keep projects on time and on budget, and effectively grow businesses and potentially cut costs. Also discussed were the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 regulations, voluntary best privacy and security practices, and how businesses can comply with these regulations and practices. Mr. Stamatovski spoke about supplying hardware (drones) and software to many industries already using drones worldwide and provided a drone display, which he designed and built, for audience members to view up close.

Kathryn Rattigan and Carrie Turner Speak on Drones in the Insurance Industry

Data Privacy + Security Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Carrie C. Turner, along with  Ivan Stamatovski of Easy Aerial, presented the program "Drones Take Flight in the Insurance Industry" on January 19, 2017, in New York City and on February 8, 2017, in Hartford, Connecticut. Ms. Rattigan and Ms. Turner discussed how drones can collect valuable data to reduce losses, evaluate and monitor risks, reduce fraud, and increase the productivity, safety and efficiency of claims adjusters. Additionally, they addressed the Federal Aviation Administration's Part 107 regulations, voluntary best privacy and security practices, and how businesses using drones can comply with these regulations and practices. Mr. Stamatovski spoke about supplying hardware (drones) and software to many industries already using drones worldwide and provided a drone display, which he designed and built, for audience members to view up close.

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Presents on Drones in the Construction Industry

Data Privacy + Security Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan presented the session "Drones in the Construction Industry: Gear Up for the Revolution" in Robinson+Cole's Boston office on November 15, 2016. In the area of construction, the panelists explored how drones can monitor job sites, perform safety inspections, keep projects on time and on budget, and effectively grow businesses. They also discussed the Federal Aviation Administration's regulations and how businesses can comply with these regulations when drones hit the skies.

Kathryn Rattigan Appointed Vice Chair of MBA's Health Law Council

Kathryn M. Rattigan has been appointed vice chair of the Massachusetts Bar Association's (MBA) Health Law Section Council. The health law council is part of the Health Law Section, which works to enhance the professional competence of lawyers dealing with health care issues through seminars and publications.

Ms. Rattigan is a business litigation lawyer in Robinson+Cole's Providence office.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in JD Supra’s 2016 Readers Choice Awards

Congratulations to our authors recognized in JD Supra's 2016 Readers' Choice Awards. Wystan M. Ackerman, Linn Foster Freedman, Andrea Donovan Napp, and Kathryn M. Rattigan are among 200 JD Supra authors recognized as JD Supra Top Authors in this inaugural award. The top authors were selected from among more than 34,000 writers publishing on JD Supra in 2015 for their excellent visibility and engagement with readers in a specific industry (16 industries represented) or for thought leadership covering a key, cross-industry topic (10 represented). Following are their areas of recognition.

• Linn Freedman - a Top Author with readers in the retail, insurance, healthcare, defense & space, and automotive industries, as well as a Top Author on the subjects of cybersecurity and class action defense. Additionally, her article "FBI warns of continued use of Cryptowall ransomware schemes" is noted as one of the most popular cybersecurity articles in 2015; her article "Privacy Tip #10 – What are digital assets and why should I care?" was one of the most popular estate planning articles; and her article "Uber class action case hits roadblock" was one of the most popular class action defense articles.
• Wystan Ackerman - a Top Author on the subject of class action defense.
• Andrea Napp - a Top Author on the subject of electronic discovery.
• Kathryn Rattigan - a Top Author with readers in the airline & aviation industry.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Join Annual Walk to the Hill

Katherine C. Bailey, Kendra L. Berardi, Lawrence P. Heffernan, John E. O’Brien, Jr., and Kathryn M. Rattigan represented the firm when they walked with hundreds of lawyers to the Massachusetts State House in the 17th Annual Walk to the Hill for Civil Legal Aid on January 28, 2016. At the State House, participants urged lawmakers to protect state funding for civil legal aid. Many low-income individuals need civil legal aid when they face various civil legal problems, such as loss of housing, domestic abuse, access to veterans' benefits, unemployment appeals, and wage and hour disputes. By providing lawyers and legal advice to people living at or near the federal poverty level, civil legal aid programs enhance the ability of clients to access justice and can serve as a powerful tool to combat poverty. Click here to view a photo of Robinson+Cole lawyers at the State House.

The Walk to the Hill event was sponsored by the Equal Justice Coalition, the Massachusetts Bar Association, and the Boston Bar Association.

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

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

Kathryn Sylvia Presents at Central Massachusetts Health Care Symposium

Business litigation lawyer Kathryn M. Sylvia spoke at the Second Annual Central Massachusetts Health Care Symposium, held at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester on April 16, 2015. Sponsored by the Massachusetts Bar Association, the event featured legal and medical professionals who addressed current developments in health care. In her session, "Mobile Health Care Apps: Risks and Compliance," Ms. Sylvia discussed the regulation of mobile health care apps by the FDA, HIPAA, the FTC, and state laws. She also provided best practices for mobile health care apps, including the need for companies to have a website privacy policy and terms of use and conditions, to use a data checklist or data map, to avoid collecting data not required for basic functionality, and to make privacy policies easy to understand and readily available.

Robinson+Cole Elects Five Partners

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of Benjamin M. Daniels, Andrew A. DePeau, Sandra Marin Lautier, Kathryn M. Rattigan and Evan J. Seeman as Partners, effective January 1, 2023. The new partners reflect Robinson+Cole’s continued strategic growth in key areas, including business and bankruptcy litigation, data privacy and security and real estate and development.

“Congratulations to this outstanding group of lawyers on their well-deserved promotion,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “They exemplify the excellent talent driving our firm’s sustained growth and are strong contributors to our clients, firm and communities.” Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in 2022 Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Dana Horton and Kathryn Rattigan Selected for Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly 2021 Excellence in the Law Recognitions

Robinson+Cole Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Dana M. Horton and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan were selected by Rhode Island Lawyers Weekly for recognitions presented as part of the publication’s 2021 Excellence in the Law Awards. The honorees were each profiled in a special issue of the publication and celebrated during a virtual ceremony on April 8, 2021.

Dana was recognized as a Leader in the Law, which honors the current leaders of the bar, drawn from across the spectrum of the legal profession. Kathryn was named an Up & Coming Lawyer. An honor saluting “the rising stars of the Rhode Island Bar” who “have been practicing and admitted to the RI Bar for 10 years or less yet, have already distinguished themselves in the practice of law.” Read more in the press release. 

Robinson+Cole Elects New Partners and Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the election of Steven J. Boyajian, J. Tyler Butts, Ryan V. Leichsenring, Krista L. Patterson, Jonathan H. Schaefer, Emilee Mooney Scott, Jonathan E. Small, Anthony J. Vogel and Abby M. Warren as partner as well as the promotion of Katherine M. Fix, and Kathryn M. Rattigan to counsel, effective January 1, 2021.

“All of these lawyers have been extraordinarily strong contributors to our firm and it is wonderful to be able to recognize their achievements and be a part of the continuing growth of their careers,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “Congratulations to this outstanding group of lawyers and future leaders on their well-deserved promotions.” Read more in the press release.

47 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized in Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

Kathryn Rattigan Selected for Providence Business News’ 2020 “40 Under Forty” Program

Business Litigation Group and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team lawyer Kathryn M. Rattigan was chosen as a winner of Providence Business News’ 16th annual 40 Under Forty program. Ms. Rattigan was honored in a virtual ceremony held on July 16, 2020 and profiled in a special feature published in the July 17, 2020 edition of Providence Business News. The 40 Under Forty awardees were selected based on their career success and involvement within their communities. View Kathryn's profile. Read more in the press release.

52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

Robinson+Cole Strengthens Privacy and Data Security Team with New Lawyers

Robinson+Cole welcomes Linn Foster Freedman to its Business Litigation Group as a partner, where she will chair the firm's Privacy and Data Security Team. Ms. Freedman joins the firm from Nixon Peabody LLP, where she led its Privacy and Data Protection Group and HIPAA Compliance Team. Additionally, Kathryn M. Sylvia has joined the firm's Privacy and Data Security Team as an associate. Ms. Freedman and Ms. Sylvia regularly practice out of the firm's Providence and Boston offices.

Ms. Freedman focuses her practice on compliance with all state and federal privacy and security laws and regulations, as well as emergency databreach response and mitigation. She also authors the blog Data Privacy and Security Insider, www.dataprivacyandsecurityinsider.com, offering insights into the tightly controlled and constantly changing industry. Read more in the news release.