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

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

Joe Barra Recognized as a Massachusetts “Go To Lawyer” in Construction

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was recognized as a “Massachusetts Go To Lawyer” in the area of Construction by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly (MLW) and profiled in a special section published on May 22, 2023. The “Massachusetts Go To Lawyers” feature was debuted by MLW in 2020 to showcase leaders in the Massachusetts legal community by practice area. A “Go To Lawyer” is: an expert in his or her field; a senior attorney well-versed in case law, statutes and regulations; experienced, with a record of success in cases and/or transactions; a lawyer to whom other lawyers make referrals because of his or her expertise and accomplishments; and a lawyer who can think creatively and identify all options for a client. This year’s Go To Lawyers were nominated by their peers and chosen by a MLW panel. Read the special section.

Robinson+Cole Continues Growth in New York with Addition of Partners in Capital Markets + Securities, Construction, and Managed Care + Employee Benefit Litigation

Robinson+Cole announces the addition of Ze'-ev D. Eiger as a partner in the firm’s Capital Markets + Securities Team, Jessica L. Rothman as a partner in the firm’s Construction Group, and E. Evans Wohlforth, Jr. as a partner in the firm’s Managed Care + Employee Benefit Litigation Group.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Ze’-ev, Jessica, and Evans to the firm and to our expanding Capital Markets + Securities, Construction, and Managed Care + Employee Benefit Litigation groups,” said Rhonda J. Tobin, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “They are seasoned lawyers who are highly respected practitioners. Their experience broadens the depth and strength of our practices and the services we offer our clients. Their addition also furthers our strategic objective to grow in large commercial centers.”

In addition to welcoming Eiger, Rothman, and Wohlforth, Jr., Robinson+Cole recently named Capital Markets + Securities lawyer Anna Jinhua Wang as Partner in Charge of the firm’s New York City office. Read more in the press release.

Fred Hedberg and Will Stoll Author High Profile Article on False Claims Act

Construction Group lawyers Fred Hedberg and Will Stoll authored the article “Will the Connecticut Legislature Ignore the Construction Industry and Expand the False Claims Act?” published in High Profile magazine on April 4, 2023. The article focuses on House Bill No. 6826, An Act Concerning Liability for False and Fraudulent Claims, which seeks to expand the scope of Connecticut’s current False Claims Act by eliminating the limitation that it only applies to state-administered health and human services programs. After a public hearing held on March 6, 2023, the bill was voted out of committee by a wide margin, and then added to the House Calendar on March 28, 2023. Fred and Will discuss false claims laws in New England and examine Massachusetts recent uses of its False Claims Act, and warn that “[s]uch a law could unfairly penalize contractors, causing them to incur significant costs to defend claims that may be subjective (but not fraudulent), risk losing prequalification status, or face suspension or debarment, any of which could jeopardize their businesses.” Read the article.

Lisa Andrzejewski Featured in NYREJ's "2023 Women in Construction Spotlight"

Construction Group lawyer Lisa B. Andrzejewski was selected for inclusion in the New York Real Estate Journal’s (NYREJ) “2023 Women In Construction Spotlight,” published on March 28, 2023. The Spotlight profiled more than 50 women professionals from across the construction industry. In the Q&A feature, Lisa describes a pivotal point in her career and recommends the New York Building Congress as a professional association for women who are starting out in the AEC industry to join. Read Lisa’s profile, here.

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.

Joe Barra Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Article on Rare Decision in Construction Case

Construction Law Group member, Joseph A. Barra, was quoted in the article “In rare decision, judge dissolves lien in construction case,” published in the Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on February 9, 2023. The article addresses the Trial Court’s determination that a contractor’s notice of contract was inaccurate and “filed so willfully and intentionally as to warrant the rare remedy of dissolving it.”

At issue was the Court’s finding that the lien met the standard for dismissal given that the proceeding was conducted pursuant to the Commonwealth’s Summary Disposition Statute (G.L.c. 254, §15A). Joe is of the view that under the Supreme Judicial Court’s 2004 decision in Golden v. General Builders Supply, the Trial Court might have exceeded its authority in a Summary Discharge proceeding. “As a general rule, summary discharge of a lien is proper when the lien is defective on its face,” noting that “(w)hile the [Summary Disposition] statute does provide other reasons for discharging a lien, none of them involve a factual finding of ‘willfulness.’ Joe added, “I don’t believe that the court is authorized to make such factual determinations in this abbreviated forum, especially in the context of a motion for a preliminary injunction.” Joe pointed out that an important takeaway from the decision is that contractors who over-state the value of liens do so at their peril and run the risk of losing the lien in its entirety. Read the article.

Fred Hedberg Authors Construction Executive Article on the Infrastructure Bill’s Potential Effects on the Construction Industry

Construction Group lawyer Frederick E. Hedberg authored the article, “One Year Later: The Infrastructure Bill and Its Potential Effect on the Construction Industry,” published in Construction Executive’s “CE This Week” newsletter on October 31, 2022. The article discusses the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) that became law on November 15, 2021, noting that following its implementation there have been executive orders and proposed legislation that “could have significant, adverse effects on the construction industry.” While state and local governments have adopted project labor agreements (PLAs) for construction projects in their jurisdictions, the use of PLAs on federal projects typically depends on the political party in the White House. The article examines how the Biden administration has used this legislation to fulfill campaign promises to the building and construction trade unions by prioritizing PLAs, Davis-Bacon wage requirements and Buy America coverage on federal and federally-funded construction projects costing $35 million or more to the federal government, despite a historic shortage of skilled workers, major supply chain disruptions, and unprecedented materials cost inflation. The article considers the implementation of the administration’s policies in light of these problems, noting that they will likely, and needlessly, increase the cost of numerous construction projects to be funded under the IIJA, and stating that “while the actual number of PLA projects under the IIJA remains to be determined, the potential for a dramatic increase in the number of such projects is real.” Read the full article.

Robinson+Cole Receives 43 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 43 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 30 in the city of Hartford, in the 2023 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

Robinson+Cole also received four national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and a Tier 3 ranking in Labor Law - Management. 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.

Megan Naughton Authors Construction Executive Article on Legal Immigration Options for Construction Companies

Immigration Group co-chair Megan R. Naughton authored the article, “Explore Legal Immigration Options for Construction Companies,” published in Construction Executive on August 9, 2022. The article reviewed numerous visa options for legal immigration and the requirements for each that could be beneficial to construction companies around the U.S. Read the article.

Joe Barra Appointed Adjunct Professor of Construction Law at Wentworth Institute of Technology

Congratulations to Construction Law Group Partner Joe Barra, who was recently appointed an Adjunct Professor at Wentworth Institute of Technology. Joe will teach Construction Law to graduate students in Wentworth’s Construction Management Master’s degree program. The Boston-based University comprises five schools that focus on Engineering, Architecture and Construction Management.  

Choity Khan Re-Elected to Board of PWC CT Chapter

Congratulations to Construction Law Group member Choity R. Khan, who has been re-elected to the Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter (PWC CT) Board of Directors for the 2022-2023 term. The PWC CT Chapter is a community of professionals in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry that provides an opportunity for connection and engagement intended to lead to business opportunities. During this past term, Choity served on PWC CT’s Mentorship Committee, which works with local Southern New England colleges to pair college students with mentors in the construction profession. Learn more about the organization.

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

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

Fred Hedberg Authors Price Escalation Article Published in PE Magazine

Construction Law Group lawyer Frederick E. Hedberg authored the article “The Engineer’s Role in Material Price Escalation on Construction Projects” published in the “Legal Beat” column of the Winter 2022 issue of PE magazine, the flagship publication of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE).

With the persistent spread and reoccurrence of COVID-19 and its variants, the construction industry continues to feel the effects of supply chain interruptions, acute labor shortages, and tariffs on raw material imports. Fred writes that these situations have resulted in delivery delays and increasingly-long lead times, which, combined with rising labor costs and price inflation “have led to significant increases and volatility in raw material prices over the past two years, which should be accounted for.”

Fred outlines various considerations that could prove helpful to engineers in protecting owners from unforeseen price escalations while designing and executing a successful design-bid-build project. These fundamentals include: understanding the owner’s requirements; preparing detailed plans and specifications for contractors; and determining whether the project should be undertaken in phases. He also recommends preparing requests for proposals (RFPs) that address material cost escalation and define “the form and method of payment and include a well-drafted mutual or bilateral escalation clause.” He notes that “[e]ngineers can play a crucial role in the success of a project by accounting for and allocating the risks of material price volatility in today’s uncertain economic times.” Read the full article here.

Lisa Andrzejewski Featured in NYREJ's "2022 Women in Construction Spotlight"

Construction Group lawyer Lisa B. Andrzejewski was selected for inclusion in the New York Real Estate Journal’s (NYREJ) “2022 Women In Construction Spotlight,” published on March 22, 2022. The Spotlight profiled more than 50 women professionals from across the construction industry. In the Q&A feature, Lisa offers advice to other women entering the construction industry and discusses who within R+C has helped her succeed in her area of practice. Read Lisa’s feature, click here.

Doug Mackin Authors Article for NASBP on Dangers of Using Outdated Construction Contracts

Construction Law Group member, Doug Mackin, authored the article, "Recent Court Decision Warns of Dangers of Using Outdated Construction Contracts," published as a blog on the website of the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) on February 10, 2022. The article examines two key takeaways from a recent case, Hillhouse v. Chris Cook Construction, LLC, 325 So. 3d 646 (Miss. 2021), before the Supreme Court of Mississippi. First, carefully review form contracts to make sure they are up to date and address any changes that might have been made to applicable law since they were drafted. Second, pay close attention to any alternative dispute resolution provisions outlined in the contract. Doug writes that in the Mississippi case the court found that "the arbitration provision was unenforceable and the parties would have to spend the time and resources to resolve any claims before the appropriate court." Read the full article here. 

Choity Khan Article on New Public Works Construction Projects Is Re-Posted to NASBP Blog Site

The article “Number of New Public Works Construction Projects to Rise as Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Signed into Law," authored by Construction Law Group member, Choity Khan, and first published as a Construction Law Zone blog on November 22, 2021, was re-posted to the blog forum on the website of the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) on December 7, 2021. The article addresses highlights of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), signed into law by President Biden on November 15, 2021, which reauthorizes surface transportation funds and allocates $550 billion for new federal spending over the next five years. Choity writes that “(t)he passage of the IIJA provides exciting opportunities for construction industry professionals, not just in the traditional sectors of road, bridge, and rail repair and construction, but also emerging sectors such as climate resiliency and electric vehicle infrastructure,” noting that the full impact on the construction industry “will only gradually be felt…over the next five years, as the administration plans to focus on determining and funding ‘shovel-worthy’ projects in addition to funding ‘shovel-ready’ projects.” Read the complete article here.  

Joe Barra Quoted in Article on Product Shortages and Rising Costs

Construction Law Group member, Joseph A. Barra, was quoted in the article "From Christmas trees to refrigerators, Vermonters are facing shortages and rising costs," published in the November 14, 2021, issue of the VTDigger. The story highlights construction projects in Vermont and across the country that have been affected by labor and material shortages, delays resulting from COVID, bottlenecks in supply chains here and abroad, and other issues plaguing the construction industry. Addressing how these impacts are affecting the rising costs of construction, Joe said, "You've got certain protectionist legislation, protective tariffs that the government has imposed that makes the price of raw materials more expensive or (creates) shortages... Lack of supply to U.S. markets would be one illustration of that.” Read the full article here. 

Robinson+Cole Receives 40 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 40 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 28 in the city of Hartford, in the 2022 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.

Robinson+Cole also received four national rankings: Tier 1 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law, Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law and Real Estate Law, and a Tier 3 ranking in Labor Law - Management. 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.

Fred Hedberg Authors Construction Executive Article on Mitigating the Risks of Materials Price Escalation

Construction Group lawyer Frederick E. Hedberg authored the article “Mitigating the Risks of Materials Price Escalation: Better Now Than Never!” published in Construction Executive on September 9, 2021. Fred discusses how dramatic increases in the prices of raw building materials over the past year have jeopardized constructions projects that did not mitigate the risks of material price escalation. The article counsels construction stakeholders on the importance of considering different strategies to mitigate the risks of price escalations during all phases of a project. During the bidding phase, owners might want to require bids to be submitted pursuant to a universally accepted cost index. Conversely, contractors and downstream subcontractors and suppliers might want to define the time period during which their bids are valid and to include language in their bids to account for price increases that occur after a certain date. The article also discusses drafting and negotiating different types of contractual provisions, including threshold or delay and mutual or bilateral price escalation clauses, which fairly and equitably allocate the risks of volatile price fluctuations often driven by economic and political forces outside the control of the parties. Read the full article.

Choity Khan Elected to Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter Board of Directors

Construction Law Group lawyer Choity R. Khan has been elected to the Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter (PWC CT) Board of Directors for the 2021-2022 term. The PWC CT Chapter is a community of professionals in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry that provides an opportunity for connection and engagement that leads to business opportunities. Choity currently serves on PWC CT’s Mentorship Committee and was elected to the Board by PWC CT Chapter members. Learn more about the organization.

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.

Joe Barra and Niel Franzese Author NSPE Article on Designers’ Exposure for Construction Cost Overruns

Construction Law Group lawyers Joseph A. Barra and Niel P. Franzese authored the article “Are You on the Hook for a Busted Budget?” published in the “Legal Beat” column of the Summer 2021 issue of PE Magazine, the flagship publication of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). Given labor challenges and skyrocketing material costs resulting from the COIVD-19 pandemic, the obligation for a design professional to “design to budget” can be an unsuspected and sometimes overlooked source of exposure. Joe and Niel cover how some of the industry standard contract forms address a designers’ exposure for construction cost overruns. One of the article’s risk-mitigation recommendations seeks to balance this exposure by empowering the owner to track such volatility: “As the volatile construction market continues to impact the predictability of a project’s ultimate construction cost, designers would be best served to encourage owners to retain the services of a qualified cost engineer in order to keep pace with market fluctuations.” Read the article.

Joe Barra Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Article on the Statute of Repose

Construction Law Group member Joseph A. Barra was quoted in the article “Condo collapse prompts calls to fix flaws in laws” published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on July 22, 2021. With regard to the recent collapse of the Champlain Towers South high rise apartment building in Miami, FL, the article discusses how Florida’s Statute of Repose could shield design professionals from liability should it be found that the collapse was caused, in part, by a design error.

In the article, Joe explains how statutes of repose generally apply in such situations and describes the differences between its applicability to the design of a building and the design of a manufactured product. Barra states, “’In product liability cases, a manufacturer has many, many chances to get the design of its product correct’ adding, “In some instances, courts will not even permit evidence at trial of subsequent remedial measures. In contrast to the building construction industry,” he states, “a building designer has only one opportunity to get it right. As a result, the law holds [building] designers not to a standard of “perfection”…rather, the designer must meet the professional standard of care.” Subscribers can read the full article.

Fred Hedberg Authors Construction Executive Article on “Key Legal Considerations for Modular Construction Contracts”

Construction Group lawyer Frederick E. Hedberg authored the article “Key Legal Considerations for Modular Construction Contracts” published in Construction Executive on April 15, 2021. As prefabricated and modular construction becomes increasingly popular, especially in the area of affordable housing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the article examines key commercial and legal issues that owners, contractors and fabricators may want to consider when entering into construction agreements to build these projects, such as the governing law; whether the common law or the Uniform Commercial Code or both is applicable to these hybrid transactions; insurance and bonds; and, risk of loss. The article also analyzes the extent to which the first ever industry standard contract- ConsensusDocs 753, Standard Agreement between Constructor and Prefabricator- published last fall addresses these important legal issues in this emerging area of construction law. Read the full article.

Dennis Cavanaugh Appointed to AAA Arbitration Panel

Congratulations to Construction Group lawyer Dennis C. Cavanaugh, who has been appointed to serve on the American Arbitration Association (AAA) Consumer Panel. Per its website, “AAA panels are comprised of accomplished attorneys with exceptional subject-matter expertise; former federal and state judges; and business owners who understand the essence of the dispute.” Panelists must successfully complete the Arbitration Fundamentals and Best Practices for New AAA Arbitrators training program and the online Award Writing course. Since 1990, Dennis has served on the AAA Commercial Panel of Neutrals, Connecticut Construction Advisory Committee as both a sole panelist and as a panel chairperson. He also is trained as a mediator in commercial and construction claims, and has successfully completed the AAA “Mediator Essentials – Skills for Facilitating Negotiated Agreements” training course.

Virginia Trunkes and Conor Duffy Author Healthcare Facilities Today Article on Cybersecurity in Health Care Design

Construction Law Group lawyer Virginia K. Trunkes and Health Law Group lawyer Conor O. Duffy authored the article “Construction and Maintenance: Connectivity and Cyber Security Considerations” published in Healthcare Facilities Today on March 31, 2021 Fueled by the emphasis on social distancing and need to limit exposure and transfer of infections, one of the hottest trends in health care design is incorporating more automation, remote access and use of data analytics into treatment and the patient environment. Health care facilities are increasingly relying on smart grid technologies, cloud computing, connected medical devices and health monitors, bio-sensing wearables, touchless technology, telehealth, online scheduling applications, electronic health records, virtual triages, AI-based predictive analytics and machine learning, and most recently interactive floor-plan images used by regulatory inspectors. These technologies require seamless connected systems and instant access to data – a recipe for cyber-vulnerability. Conor and Virginia acknowledge that while decades of HIPAA and extensive penalties for non-compliance have ensured that health care organizations are well equipped to maintain the privacy of their patient health information (PHI), health care organizations need to equally prioritize cybersecurity with respect to their facilities’ design and construction and contractors and vendors. Read the full article.

Choity Khan Featured in NEREJ's "2021 Women in Construction Spotlight"

Congratulations to Construction Group member Choity Khan, who is highlighted in the March 26, 2021 issue of the New England Real Estate Journal’s “2021 Women In Construction Spotlight.” The Spotlight profiled 125 women professionals engaged across the construction industry. To read Choity’s feature, click here.

Fred Hedberg Authors ABA Forum on Construction Law Article on ASCE Standard on Loss of Productivity

Construction Law Group lawyer Frederick E. Hedberg authored the article “A New Roadmap to a Familiar Journey: The ASCE Standard on Loss of Productivity” published in the Spring 2021 edition of Under Construction, a newsletter publication of the American Bar Association’s Forum on Construction Law. After offering insight into some of the ways COVID-19 has changed the construction industry, Fred acknowledges that the pandemic has not changed the fact that claims for loss of productivity remain some of the most contentious, and most difficult, claims to quantify and prove. After reviewing different methodologies for quantifying and proving such claims, Fred discusses how the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) seeks to develop consistency and provide guidance to the construction industry through its soon-to-be-published standard- “Identifying, Quantifying and Proving Loss of Productivity”. “While it is only advisory, the standard provides key principles on all aspects of loss of productivity claims that, at the very least, provide sound, practical guidance regarding such claims.” Read the full article.

Joe Barra and Niel Franzese Author NSPE Article on COVID’s Impact on the Designer’s Standard of Care

Construction Law Group lawyers Joseph A. Barra and Niel P. Franzese authored the article “COVID’s Impact on the Designer’s Standard of Care” published in the “Legal Beat” column of the Winter 2021 issue of PE, the flagship publication of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). The article focuses on COVID-19’s impact to the common law as it affects the design professional’s standard of care. Joe and Niel offer a primer on the design professional’s standard of care and share insight on how it’s measured, how COVID-19 might change the standard of care, and how it may impact design professionals’ future engagements. Read the full article.

Lisa Andrzejewski Authors New England Real Estate Journal Article Offering Construction Industry Forecast

Construction Law Group lawyer Lisa B. Andrzejewski authored the article “Construction industry forecast: Cloudy with a chance of sun,” published in the New England Real Estate Journal on January 22, 2021. Describing 2020 as a year “of change and uncertainty,” Lisa writes “most commentators agree that an industry-wide recovery will occur – however, a question remains as to whether it will be in 2021, or later.” She goes on to cover COVID-related cost impacts, construction hiring, supply chain impacts, and transportation and infrastructure opportunities. Read the full article.

Labor and Employment Group Lawyers Author Construction Executive Article on COVID-19 Vaccine in the Workplace

Labor and Employment Group lawyers Stephen W. Aronson, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Natale V. DiNatale, Abby M. Warren, Kayla N. West and Emily A. Zaklukiewicz authored the article “One Shot to Get It Right: Navigating the COVID-19 Vaccine in the Workplace” published in Construction Executive on January 6, 2020. The article covers several legal and practical issues that employers may wish to consider as they prepare for widespread distribution and availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in 2021. Read the full article.

Fred Hedberg Authors Article on “COVID-izing Your Construction Contract” Published in Construction Executive

Construction Law Group member Frederick E. Hedberg authored the article “COVID-izing Your Construction Contract” published in the December issue of Construction Executive and on the magazine’s website on December 8, 2020. With projects throughout the country adversely affected by unplanned work stoppages, delays, disruptions to the supply chain, price escalations and other unanticipated events as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the article encourages owners, developers, contractors and suppliers to reflect on their experiences over the past year and account for the COVID-19 pandemic when drafting and negotiating contracts for their projects. Read the full article.

Joe Barra Quoted on Prompt Payment Act in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Article

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was quoted in the article “Judge strictly construes Prompt Payment Act” published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on December 10, 2020. The article focuses on a recent decision by the Massachusetts Superior Court entitled, Tocci v. IRIV Partners, LLC, et. al. which confirmed that Massachusetts Courts intend to strictly construe the Massachusetts Prompt Pay Statute. Passed in 2010, the Statute imposed specific requirements on owners, contractors and subcontractors of private projects over $3M with regard to submitting, processing and approving requests for payment and change orders. In Tocci, the Court ordered the owner to pay the contractor disputed monies simply because the owner failed to timely and properly object to the contractor’s invoices. “I believe [the decision] will have serious and far-reaching implications in the way private construction projects in Massachusetts will be managed,” Joe said. Read the article.

Robinson+Cole Commits to AGC’s Culture of Care in Support of Construction Industry

Robinson+Cole has committed to the Culture of CARE, an initiative created in partnership between the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the AGC of Washington to advance the construction industry as the industry of choice for diverse and talented workers by building inclusive work environments in construction firms nationwide.

“At Robinson+Cole we have long fostered an inclusive culture where the diverse backgrounds of all of our attorneys and other professionals are respected and each individual is empowered to succeed. That culture carries through to our client and community relationships,” said Gregory R. Faulkner, Chair of the Construction Law Group at Robinson & Cole LLP and Board Director of the AGC of Connecticut. “We are proud to join our clients and colleagues in the construction industry to build a culture that is diverse, safe, welcoming and inclusive for all.” Read more in the press release.

Niel Franzese Authors ISHN Article on Long-term Alteration of Business Operations Due to COVID-19

Construction Law Group member Niel P. Franzese authored the article “How to alter operations when remote work isn’t an option” published in ISHN (Industrial Safety & Hygiene News) on December 4, 2020. The article focuses on how industries unable to engage in remote work are now considering adapting more long-term or permanent strategies as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “The realization that the length of the pandemic will be measured in months, or even years, rather than weeks, has prompted many to consider how these adaptations can be implemented in a more permanent way as a part of the ‘new normal,’ including in strategies fundamental to business operations such as the design, construction and operations planning of commercial facilities.” Niel goes on to examine increasing air circulation and redesigning spaces as examples of strategies. Read the full article.     

Kenneth Sherman Authors Article on Builders’ Risk Insurance Published in High Profile Magazine

Construction Law Group lawyer Kenneth A. Sherman authored the article “Federal Court Decision Reminds Construction Project Participants to Secure Additional Insurance Coverage at Project’s Start” published in High Profile magazine on November 20, 2020. Using Factory Mut. Ins. Co. v. Skanska United States Bldg., No. 18-cv-11700-DLC, 2020. U.S. Dist. LEXIS 95403 as an example, where the Federal Court in Massachusetts held that a construction project’s general contractor and sub-contractor were not additional insureds under the construction project’s owner’s Builders Risk insurance policy (Policy), Kenneth emphasizes the importance of the language contained in the policy itself and not by contract, agreement, custom, practice, or factual circumstances. “As we see from Factory Mutual, failing to confirm insurance coverage in advance of an otherwise insurable event might leave a party exposed to having its additional insured coverage determined by a non-party to the underlying construction project, such as an insurance coverage analyst or a judge, should the question of insurance coverage end up in litigation.” Read the full article.

Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 36 first-tier metropolitan rankings and four national rankings in the 2021 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” The national rankings are in the areas of Information Technology Law, Labor Law - Management, Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Read more in the press release.

Three Lawyers From Robinson+Cole’s New York Office Recognized by Super Lawyers®

Robinson+Cole lawyers Lawrence Klein and Virginia K. Trunkes were named to the New York Metro Super Lawyers® list for 2020. In addition, Ian T. Clarke-Fisher was recognized as a “Rising Star.” They are joined by 47 Robinson+Cole lawyers named Super Lawyers® and 29 recognized as “Rising Stars” in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island for 2020. Read more in the press release.

Niel Franzese Authors Article on HVAC Upgrades Resulting from COVID-19 Pandemic

Construction Law Group member Niel P. Franzese authored the article “Impacts of the COVID Pandemic on Design and Construction: HVAC Upgrades” published in High Profile magazine on October 27, 2020. The article acknowledges the heightened focus of improvements to the design and construction of new and existing facilities, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with one example being HVAC systems. The piece goes on to include the list of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for creating safe and healthy work and business spaces. Read the full article.

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.

Construction Law Group Members Appointed to Serve on CT Bar Assoc. Construction Law Section Executive Committee

Construction Law Group lawyers Dennis C. Cavanaugh, Gregory R. Faulkner, Frederick E. Hedberg, and Martin A. Onorato have all been reappointed to serve on the Executive Committee of the Connecticut Bar Association’s (CBA) Construction Law Section for the 2020-2021 term. Specifically, Fred resumes his role as Legislative Liaison, serving as the primary contact between the Section and the CBA's Legislative Policy and Review Committee as it pertains to relevant legislation affecting the area of construction law, and Marty will continue to serve as Treasurer. The Construction Law Section aims to bring together CBA members practicing construction law to discuss current issues affecting that practice area, educate the membership on legal issues impacting these rapidly developing topics, and to foster productive relationships between the attorneys and members of the construction industry.

Marty Onorato Is Named to CBC Board of Directors

Congratulations to Construction Group member Marty Onorato, who will serve on the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) Board of Directors for the 2020-2021 term. Marty is a past President of the CBC and also has served as a member of its Industry Practice and Ways and Means committees. The CBC was founded in 1952 as a networking organization for construction industry firms, owners, engineers, architects, attorneys, contractors, construction managers, subcontractors, and others involved in the industry. Its mission is “to provide a collaborative environment that fosters relationships and contributes to the growth and success of the construction industry.” In addition, CBC Scholarship Fund grants support college-bound students studying in areas of benefit to the construction industry, including architecture, engineering, construction management, and construction technology.

Robinson+Cole Expands Construction Practice

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the addition of Frederick E. Hedberg as a partner in the firm’s Construction Law Group. Mr. Hedberg has more than 20 years of experience as an attorney handling complex construction and commercial matters. He also has more than 10 years of experience as a licensed civil and structural engineer which gives him an in-depth understanding of all phases of a construction project. Mr. Hedberg is resident in the firm’s Hartford office. Read more in the press release.

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.

Choity Khan Authors Article on Presumption for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Connecticut Published in High Profile

Construction Group lawyer Choity R. Khan authored the article “Gov. Lamont Issues Executive Order Creating Rebuttable Presumption for Workers’ Compensation Benefits” published in High Profile magazine on August 14, 2020. Originally posted to the Robinson+Cole Construction Law Zone blog, the article examines Executive Order No. 7JJJ, signed by Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont on July 24, 2020, which “creates a rebuttable presumption that all employees who were required to work on site and tested positive for COVID-19 during the first three months of the pandemic contracted the disease while on the job, giving employees a presumptive claim to workers’ compensation coverage.” Read the full article.

Joe Barra and Matt Miklave Co-Author PE "Legal Beat" Article

Construction Group member Joe Barra and Labor + Employment Group member Matt Miklave co-authored the article “Designing a Return-to-Work Structure” published in PE, the flagship publication of the National Society of Professional Engineers. The “Legal Beat” article shares questions engineers need to consider when developing an effective reopening plan. To read the article, click here.

Joe Barra Quoted on Equitable Tolling Article Published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was quoted in the article “Equitable tolling can’t salvage condo claims” published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on July 9, 2020. The article examines how in Saker, et al. v. Steffian Bradley Associates, the Massachusetts Appeals Court decided that the Equitable Tolling Doctrine did not toll the Unit Owners’ defective construction claims against the condominium’s general contractor and certain subcontractors. When queried as to what practice tips could be gleaned from the decision, Joe responded that perhaps the only “lifeline” the unit owners could have had was a derivative action forcing the developer-controlled association to sue the contractors before the Unit Owners took control of the Board. Read the article. 

Construction Executive Ranks Robinson+Cole Construction Group in The Top 50 Construction Law Firms

The Construction Group has been ranked #35 in the second annual The Top 50 Construction Law Firms™ list published by Construction Executive magazine on June 19, 2020. According to its website, Construction Executive (CE) is “the magazine for the business of construction.” The publication reaches more than 55,000 commercial, industrial and institutional contractors and construction-related business owners and has won more than 20 editorial awards. CE developed The Top 50 Construction Law Firms™ ranking by asking hundreds of U.S. construction law firms to complete a survey. Read more in the press release.

Virginia Trunkes and Kit Peabody Author Federal Reserve Article Published in Four Trade Publications

Construction Group lawyer Virginia K. Trunkes and Business Transactions Group lawyer Endicott (Kit) Peabody (IV) authored the article “The Federal Reserve’s Powers to Pave the Way for Continued Development and Construction Through COVID-19,” which was published in High Profile magazine on March 26, 2020 and the New England and New York Real Estate Journals on March 27, 2020. Originally published to R+C's Construction Law Zone blog, the article outlines numerous strategies recently offered by the Federal Reserve to support the financing needed to ensure ongoing construction as well as new projects in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. “The Fed’s exclusive ability to alter the money supply and credit conditions, and willingness to do so, should spur the necessary institutional lending that can sustain development and its consumers through these troubled times.”

In addition, the original piece was updated and published by Construction Executive on April 22, 2020, "The Fed’s Toolbox: What’s Left to Pave the Way for Continued Development and Construction Through COVID-19?"

Lisa Andrzejewski Authors Article on New York “Emergency” and “Essential” Construction Published in New York Real Estate Journal

Construction Group lawyer Lisa B. Andrzejewski authored the article “New York clarifies differences between ‘emergency’ and ‘essential’ construction” published in the New York Real Estate Journal on April 21, 2020. Originally published to R+C's Construction Law Zone blog, the article examines the March 27, 2020 bulletin issued by the New York City Department of Buildings which offered clarification about the terms “emergency” and “essential” construction. Read the full article.

Krista Patterson Featured in New York Real Estate Journal’s 2020 Ones to Watch Spotlight

Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Krista L. Patterson was among those selected by the New York Real Estate Journal for inclusion in the publication’s semi-annual “Ones to Watch” spotlight, which recognizes the “emerging talents of individuals in the commercial real estate industry.” In the Q&A features, Krista discusses an experience that was a “game-changer” in the advancement of her career. Krista also describes how she contributes to her community. See the spotlight.

Robinson+Cole Receives 33 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”

Robinson+Cole received 33 first-tier metropolitan rankings and four national rankings in the 2020 Edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.” The national rankings are in the areas of Information Technology Law, Labor Law - Management , Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law. Law firms included in the publication are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Read more in the press release.

Joe Barra Article on Climate Change Published in High Profile Magazine

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra authored the article “Climate Change and the New Normal,” published in High Profile magazine on October 21, 2019. The article covers how climate change is “rapidly becoming a lightning rod of legal exposure for the design community” and explores the impact this phenomenon is having on the way engineers practice as well as the standards by which they are judged. Read the full article.

52 Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Robinson+Cole Honored to be Recognized by Brass City Charter School with Boardroom Dedication

The Brass City Charter School (BCCS) in Waterbury, CT has named a boardroom in its newly expanded facilities the “Robinson+Cole Boardroom” in recognition of pro bono work done on behalf of the school by Robinson+Cole.

Robinson+Cole’s work on behalf of BCCS involved helping on the acquisition and financing of the location of the two-year construction project at the school. The R+C team led by Steven L. Elbaum and David M. Panico included lawyers and paralegals in the firm’s Real Estate, Construction, and Public Finance Groups. Read more in the press release.

Greg Faulkner Elected to Associated General Contractors of Connecticut Board of Directors

Construction Group lawyer Gregory R. Faulkner has been appointed to the board of directors of the Associated General Contractors of Connecticut (AGCCT), an organization dedicated to providing leadership and services to its members and to the commercial construction industry. Greg will serve two three-year terms alongside board members representing construction industry entities from around the state. Read more in the press release. 

Greg Faulkner Presents on Managing Legal Exposures at Construction Institute

Construction Group lawyer Gregory R. Faulkner presented a workshop on "Management of Legal Exposures" on December 12, 2018 at the Construction Institute (CI) in Hartford, Connecticut. The workshop is offered as part of CI's Project Management Certification program. Mr. Faulkner has presented at this workshop for the past several years, and it remains one of CI's most well-attended programs. For the second year, the program was structured to provide a two-hour online session, followed by a two-hour live presentation. Mr. Faulkner addressed how early knowledge of potential issues on a project can help mitigate any associated legal consequences and costs. The workshop reviewed potential legal issues that can arise from missteps; examined case law examples that resulted from construction-related issues; and discussed the importance of considering legal hurdles before making decisions.

Todd Regan Presents Virtual Seminar on Surety’s Salvage Rights

Construction Group lawyer Todd R. Regan presented a program entitled "The Surety’s Salvage Rights Against the Principal, Indemnitors and Third Parties: What Do Bond Producers Need to Know?" on December 4, 2018. Presented by the National Association of Surety Bond Producers, the virtual seminar explored the surety’s key rights under the industry-standard General Agreement of Indemnity (GAI), as well as the surety’s well-established common law rights, focusing on what bond producers need to know in order to guide their clients through the process.

Joe Barra Presents Program on Massachusetts Retainage Act

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra presented a program entitled “How Will the Massachusetts Retainage Act Affect My Responsibilities on the Project?” as part of the Boston Day-Summit: Construction Institute Boston Chapter in Boston on November 30, 2018. Presented by the Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section, the full-day seminar included a mix of project case studies, technical reviews, legal issues in construction, technology and innovative planning and construction techniques, and specific construction projects and detailed challenges. During his session, Joe examined the application of the Massachusetts Retainage Act to private construction projects in Massachusetts and how the statute changes the traditional paradigm of a project’s close-out process with respect to substantial completion and retainage. Robinson+Cole was a sponsor of the summit.

Joe Barra Presents CMAA Program on P3 Popularity in Massachusetts

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was one of three featured speakers during the panel discussion "Why P3 (Public/Private Partnership) is gaining popularity in Massachusetts” at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Massachusetts on November 13, 2018. Presented by the New England Chapter of the Construction Management Association of America, the program focused on how a number of agencies are looking into different models, such as P3, as a means of maintaining updated infrastructure projects without having to make large investments. As an example of one such cost-effective solution, the panel examined the strategies and motivations that prompted the UMass Building Authority to pursue P3 for recent building projects on its Boston campus and the process they undertook to ensure a quality facility.

Robinson+Cole Receives 36 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – “Best Law Firms” Survey

Robinson+Cole received 36 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2019 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report. The firm also received four national rankings: Tier 2 rankings for Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law and Tier 3 rankings for Information Technology Law and Labor Law - Management.

The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national and metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas. The full methodology can be found at http://bestlawfirms.usnews.com/methodology.aspx.

View the complete list of first-tier metropolitan rankings.

Dennis Cavanaugh Presents on IMLA Construction Contracts Drafting Initiative

Construction Group lawyer Dennis C. Cavanaugh was among the panelists that participated in a program on the "Construction Contracts Drafting Initiative: Construction Manager at Risk- Comments to AIA A133-2009" as part of the 83rd Annual IMLA Conference held from October 17-21, 2018 in Houston, Texas. Presented by the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA), the panel focused on the association's Construction Contracts Drafting Initiative: Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), which is a building delivery method that requires a commitment by a construction manager to deliver the project within a guaranteed maximum price. This delivery method is especially helpful for small municipalities facing complex projects and, if done properly, can be extremely effective. The session provided IMLA members with a forum to engage in substantive discussions regarding effective terms and conditions in construction contracts for public projects utilizing CMAR.

Marty Onorato Provides Guest Lecture at UConn Stamford

Construction Group lawyer Martin A. Onorato served as a guest lecturer for the Master of Business Administration (MBA) class studying real estate investment and portfolio management at the University of Connecticut’s School of Business in Stamford, Connecticut on October 4, 2018. The lecture provided an overview of construction law issues and how they can impact key real estate evaluation and investment strategies.

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.

Marty Onorato Presents Program on Trends in Lease and Ground Lease Construction Obligations

Construction Group lawyer Martin A. Onorato presented a program on “Trends in Lease and Ground Lease Construction Obligations” as part of the Association of University Real Estate Officials (AUREO) Annual Conference held from September 23-26, 2018 at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. Marty's presentation focused on contracting trends and pitfalls in work letters governing the design and construction of real estate leased to or by colleges and universities, from alternate funding and delivery models to risk management techniques, which institutions are using to keep the lights on and stay competitive.

Greg Faulkner and Marty Onorato Co-Present at 2018 Higher Education Real Estate Lawyers Conference

Construction Group lawyers Gregory R. Faulkner and Martin A. Onorato presented on “Troubleshooting a Troubled Construction Project” during the 2018 Higher Education Real Estate Lawyers Conference on September 27, 2018 in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The presentation explored best practices, from both a legal and project management perspective, in mitigating losses and managing expectations yet, preserving rights when construction projects go bad.

Todd Regan and Peter Strniste Present During NASBP Road Show

Construction Group lawyers Todd R. Regan and Peter E. Strniste, Jr. were among the speakers that presented during the NASBP Road Show: Bonding with Bob program on July 19, 2018 at The Lyceum in Hartford, Connecticut. “Bonding with Bob” is a series of half-day educational and informational programs spotlighting National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) benefits, programs, and hot topics in the surety industry. Mr. Regan presented the program entitled "My Brother’s Keeper: The Pitfalls of Bonding Special Preference Relationships." The seminar covered the factual and legal basis on which sureties and producers may potentially be held liable for the principal’s fraudulent conduct and provided some practice pointers on how to avoid this potential liability. Mr. Strniste presented a session on the "Adventures of the Surety in the New Frontier — The Extension by State Law of the Prime’s Liability to Third Tier Subcontractors and Beyond." The program examined recent trends in state law extending the prime’s liability to third tier subcontractors and suppliers and beyond as well as the effect upon the Surety’s payment bond liability in both the public and private settings.

Joe Barra Authors Article on Climate Change Published in BSCES News

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra authored the article “Climate Change and the New Normal,” published in the June 2018 issue of BSCES News, a monthly publication of the Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section/ASCE. The article covers how climate change is “fast becoming a lightning rod of legal exposure for the design community” and explores the impact this phenomenon is having on the way engineers practice as well as the standards by which they are measured. “In the absence of exacting code guidance, today’s engineer must independently consider the effects of sea level rise, flooding, heat, freezing conditions, excessive wind, and other environmental factors when developing a conservative design,” said Barra. Read the full article.

Joe Barra Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Article on Unenforceable Mechanic’s Lien Due to Statutory Noncompliance

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was quoted in the article “Mechanic’s lien unenforceable due to statutory noncompliance - Not based on contract referenced in lien filing docs,” published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on June 20, 2018. The article covers a recent Massachusetts Superior Court decision in which homeowners were entitled to summary discharge of a mechanic’s lien filed by a contractor that could not produce the original contract referenced in its filing, but later produced a nearly identical contract for a different amount (Atlas Contracting, Inc. v. Saleh, et al.). “Barra said the mechanic’s lien statute does provide for flexibility when it comes to defining the contract at issue. That is because the Legislature amended the statute in 1996, broadening the definition of ‘written contract’ to include any written, enforceable contract, Barra said. ‘Given these circumstances, I believe that the court had the authority to apply the $227,294 contract to Atlas’ notice but elected not to exercise its discretion,’ he said, adding that the strategic decision of Atlas’ attorney to supplement the record with that contract was the right decision, as counsel was obligated to disclose that finding to the court.” Read the full article.

Joe Barra and Jon Small Co-author Article on Breach of Contract Published in BSCES News

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Jonathan E. Small co-authored the article “When is a Breach of Contract really a Breach of Contract?,” published in the March 2018 issue of BSCES News, a monthly publication of the Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section/ASCE. The article examines the recent G4S Technology LLC v. Mass. Technology Park Corp. case, a dispute that arose out of a $45 million public works project to bring a 1,200-mile fiber optic network into western Massachusetts, as it pertains to the 112-year-old Massachusetts’ Forfeiture Rule. The article notes that “[I]f G4S is successful in convincing the High Court to soften the current Forfeiture Rule for contract actions based upon intentional conduct, it may likewise be argued that by extension, the consequences of a design professional’s unintentional conduct should similarly be softened to reflect a 21^st century viewpoint.” Read the full article.

Keisha Palmer Co-Authors Chapter in Construction Industry Book

Public Finance Group lawyer Keisha S. Palmer co-authored a chapter in the book The Future of the Design and Construction Industry: Construction Industry Conversations, published by the Construction Institute. The book is a unique compilation of observations, thoughts, and predictions about the future of the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner-operated (AEC/O) industry. Ms. Palmer co-authored the chapter on "Emerging Trends in the Financing of Project Development and Building Delivery Systems" with Lisa Andrzejewski. The chapter covers public private partnerships and their customization to accommodate specific investment goals and objectives of the project owner as well as the growing number of alternative partnership options available to state and private entities for new construction and building maintenance.

Joe Barra Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Article on Challenge to Historic Forfeiture Rule

Construction Group lawyer Joseph A. Barra was quoted in the article “SJC to review forfeiture rule in construction cases,” published in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on February 22, 2018. The article discusses a case being argued on March 5 in which the Supreme Judicial Court will be asked to overturn a 112-year-old rule whereby a party's own intentional breach of contract precludes it from asserting a claim for the other parties' alleged breach.

Greg Faulkner Presents on Managing Legal Exposures at Construction Institute

Construction Group lawyer Gregory R. Faulkner presented at the Construction Institute's (CI) workshop, "Management of Legal Exposures," on January 24, 2018, in Hartford, Connecticut. The workshop is offered as part of CI's Project Management Certification program. Mr. Faulkner has presented at this workshop for the past several years, and it remains one of CI's most well-attended programs. This year, the program was structured to provide a two hour online session, followed by a two hour live presentation. Mr. Faulkner addressed how early knowledge of potential issues on a project can help mitigate any associated legal consequences and costs. In the session, the participants reviewed potential legal issues that can arise from missteps; examined case law examples that resulted from construction-related issues; and discussed the importance of considering legal hurdles before making decisions.

Greg Faulkner Presents on Arbitrating Construction Defect Claims

Construction Group lawyer Gregory R. Faulkner was among the speakers that presented on "Arbitrating Construction Defect Claims" during the 2nd Annual Construction Defect, Claims & Litigation Strategies ExecuSummit on December 6, 2017 at Mohegan Sun Hotel & Convention Center in Uncasville, Connecticut. Serving as a primer on arbitration, the seminar covered the contractual right to arbitrate, what disputes are most suited to arbitration, arbitration forums, procedural considerations, and more.

Robinson+Cole Promotes Eight Lawyers to Counsel

Robinson+Cole is pleased to announce the promotion of eight associates to counsel, effective January 1, 2018. The new counsel are Kathleen E. Dion, Jerome L. Garciano, Sorell E. Negro, Lisa C. Riccio, Evan J. Seeman, Lauren M. Sigg, Jonathan E. Small, and Elizabeth K. Wright.

“The elevation of these lawyers further enhances some of our core practices in three of our key markets,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Robinson+Cole’s Managing Partner. “It’s my pleasure to congratulate this group on their well-deserved promotions.”

Read more in the press release.

Greg Faulkner Speaks at ABX 2017

Construction Group lawyer Gregory R. Faulkner was a panelist at the largest building industry event in the Northeast, ArchitectureBoston Expo (ABX) 2017, which took place in Boston, Massachusetts, on November 9, 2017. The session, "Great Expectations: What Clients Really Want, Need, & Value," delved into the evolving world of clients, architects, and construction delivery. The goal of the interactive discussion was to  improve design and construction professionals’ understanding of project success, improve all parties’ understanding of what design and construction teams need to be efficient and productive, address the practical reality of better owner agreements, and identify best practices for design/construction teams. 

Dennis Cavanaugh Speaks at ABA Construction Insurance Program

Construction Group lawyer Dennis C. Cavanaugh presented at the one-day program on Construction Insurance in Washington, DC, on November 3, 2017. The American Bar Association's (ABA) Forum on Construction Law event focused on the key insurance and surety bond products available to transfer risk and on issues concerning the relationship between those insurance products and contract provisions and performance obligations. The faculty consisted of leading lawyers and insurance specialists. Mr. Cavanaugh spoke on performance bonds and subcontractor default insurance as risk management tools.

Martin Onorato Presents at CERT Conference, Moderates CI Program

Construction Group lawyer Martin A. Onorato spoke at the Consulting Estimators Round Table (CERT) Northeast Conference, in Windsor, Connecticut, on October 24, 2017. Mr. Onorato presented in the session "Connecticut Construction Law, Policy, and Liability Today for Estimators, Architects, Engineers, and Contractors," along with Bud Salemi, deputy commissioner of the DAS Division of Construction Services, and David Barkin, AIA, Connecticut’s chief architect. CERT members, professional estimators, industry colleagues, state officials, and lawyers attended and spoke at the conference.

In addition, Mr. Onorato moderated the Construction Institute (CI) program "Building Our Future in Uncertain Times: Solutions That Work for Public and Private Projects" in West Hartford, Connecticut, on November 9, 2017. The session featured successful projects and approaches that are structured outside the box. The case studies included Skanska’s Seaport 101 in Boston, the Marriott's advances in modular construction, and P3 public school projects in Falls Church, Virginia.

Robinson+Cole Receives 37 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

Robinson+Cole received 37 first-tier metropolitan rankings in the 2018 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report.

The firm also received three national rankings: Tier 2 ranking for Real Estate Law and Tier 3 rankings for Information Technology Law and Land Use & Zoning Law.

The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.

View a complete list of the firm's first-tier metropolitan rankings in the news release.

Todd Regan and Peter Strniste Accept Fellowships with National Construction Group

Construction Group lawyers Todd R. Regan and Peter E. Strniste Jr. have accepted fellowships with the Construction Lawyers Society of America (CLSA.) CLSA is an invitation-only construction lawyer honorary society with membership limited to 1,200 practicing Fellows from the United States and internationally. Fellows are selected and invited into Fellowship after being evaluated for effectiveness and accomplishment in construction law, along with ethical reputation. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

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.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Accept Fellowships with National Construction Group

Construction Group lawyers Gregory R. Faulkner and Dennis C. Cavanaugh have accepted fellowships with the Construction Lawyers Society of America (CLSA.) CLSA is an invitation-only construction lawyer honorary society with membership limited to 1,200 practicing Fellows from the United States and internationally. Fellows are selected and invited into Fellowship after being evaluated for effectiveness and accomplishment in construction law, along with ethical reputation. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Present at 2017 Connecticut Legal Conference

Business Litigation Group lawyer Christopher J. Hug and Construction Group lawyer Martin A. Onorato presented at the Connecticut Legal Conference, held on June 12, 2017, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. Mr. Hug was among the speakers for the seminar on the “Rules of Evidence in Probate,” where he discussed common and unique evidentiary issues in probate proceedings. Mr. Onorato served as a panelist for the “Construction Law Year in Review” program that gave an overview of significant new developments, such as changing law, legislative initiatives, and recent statutory enactments. The Connecticut Bar Association presented the conference, which offered over 40 CLE seminars, from advanced negotiations and ethics to legal technology and business law.

Dennis Cavanaugh Recognized as Connecticut Construction “Lawyer of the Year” for 2017

Robinson+Cole lawyer Dennis C. Cavanaugh has been named the Best Lawyers® 2017 “Lawyer of the Year” in Connecticut for Construction Law. Mr. Cavanaugh is a member of the firm’s Construction Group where he focuses his practice on construction and surety law, including transactional work and litigation. This is the third time he’s received the “Lawyer of the Year” designation. Read more in the press release.

Greg Faulkner Speaks on Managing Legal Exposures at Construction Institute

Gregory R. Faulkner, Robinson+Cole's Construction Group chair, presented at the Construction Institute's (CI) workshop "Management of Legal Exposures" on March 1, 2017, in Hartford, Connecticut. The workshop is part of CI’s Project Management Certification program. Mr. Faulkner has presented at this workshop for the past several years, and it remains one of CI’s most-attended programs. Mr. Faulkner addressed how early knowledge of potential issues on a project can help mitigate any associated legal consequences and costs. In the session, the participants reviewed potential legal issues that can arise from missteps; examined case law examples that resulted from construction-related issues; and discussed the importance of considering legal hurdles before making decisions.

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.

Construction Lawyers Participate in CBC Roundtable Discussions

Construction Group lawyers Gregory R. Faulkner and Martin A. Onorato were panelists at the Connecticut Building Congress program "A Lawyer, an Architect, and a Carpenter: Construction Law Best Practices Roundtable Discussions" at Central Connecticut State University on February 21, 2017, in New Britain, Connecticut. The session addressed best practices in construction law, focusing on onerous contract clauses, quality of design, and avoiding litigation and arbitration.

Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut Honor Robinson+Cole

Robinson+Cole was recognized at the Annual Meeting of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut (CT ABC) on January 26, 2017. The firm was presented with a plaque and recognized for its 15 years of commitment to CT ABC. In attendance at the event was Construction Group partner Todd R. Regan. Click here to see the photo of Mr. Regan accepting the award. CT ABC is one of the most prominent trade organizations for the construction industry.

Peter Strniste Publishes Article for CONNstruction Magazine

Construction Group lawyer Peter E. Strniste published an article, "Recipe for Successfully Navigating Project Financing Difficulties," for the Winter 2016 issue of CONNstruction magazine. CONNstruction is a quarterly publication of the Connecticut Construction Industries Association, which focuses on the Connecticut commercial and construction industry and is distributed to over 5,000 subscribers. Mr. Strniste's article highlights the warning signs for project-related bankruptcies. He also discusses strategies for protecting the project from bankruptcies and best practices for project completion following a bankruptcy. Click here to read the article.  

Greg Faulkner Presents at Construction SuperConference

Construction lawyer Gregory R. Faulkner took part in a panel discussion at the 31st Construction SuperConference in Las Vegas, Nevada, on December 7, 2016. In the program, "Leveraging the In-house and Outside Counsel Relationship," the panelists offered strategies to drive down the cost of using outside counsel, to build collaboration between in-house counsel and junior outside counsel, and to implement alternative fee arrangements. Mr. Faulkner's co-presenters were Brian Rice of RailWorks Corporation and Joshua Strub and John Margie of Glaholt LLP. Click here to see a photo of the panelists.

Greg Faulkner Speaks at ABA Forum on Construction

Gregory R. Faulkner spoke at the "Fundamentals of Construction Law: Learning from the Pros" program in New York City on November 4, 2016. Sponsored  by the ABA Forum on Construction, the session was presented in four cities across the country, and the concepts covered ranged from a single building to complex infrastructure improvements. The discussion explored a full spectrum of construction issues that included the roles of the key participants in a project, the structure of project delivery systems, the bidding and construction process, insurance and bonding, government construction contracts, and dispute resolution. Mr. Faulkner focused on insurance and bonding issues.

Robinson+Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and 3 National Rankings in Latest U.S. News – Best Law Firms Survey

Robinson+Cole received 34 first-tier metropolitan rankings, including 26 in the city of Hartford, in the 2017 “Best Law Firms” list published in U.S. News & World Report.

The firm also received three national rankings: Tier 2 rankings for Information Technology Law, Land Use & Zoning Law, and Real Estate Law.

The rankings are presented in tiers, on both the national or metropolitan lists, by practice area. Rankings are based on surveys in which major clients and lawyers are asked to rate the law firms they consider best in their practice areas.

View a complete list of the firm's first-tier metropolitan rankings in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Recognized by Super Lawyers®

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

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

See the list of included lawyers in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Sponsors Autism-Friendly Performance of Bye Bye Birdie

Robinson+Cole was the proud sponsor of Goodspeed Musicals' first Autism-Friendly Performance of the musical Bye Bye Birdie on Saturday, September 3rd. While the story of Bye Bye Birdie did not change, modifications to lighting and sound cues ensured the experience was appropriate for individuals on the autism spectrum. Tickets were made available exclusively to individuals with sensory input disorders and their families. More than 200 patrons attended, making the performance an overall success. For more information about the production, click here. Construction lawyer Peter Strniste serves on the board of trustees for the Goodspeed.

Construction Lawyer Presents at NFSA

Construction partner Peter E. Strniste presented "Strategies for Managing and Avoiding the Inherent Risks Associated with Construction Projects" at the National Fire Sprinklers Association's  Boston Chapter Meeting on September 14, 2016. More than 35 fire sprinkler contractors and vendors attended the session. Mr. Strniste guided the participants through various strategies for limiting and transferring construction risks both during the contract negotiation phase and the construction phase. He also discussed strategies for limiting risks and recovering additional funds through change orders and properly allocating project delays and accelerations.  

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.

Construction Institute Honors Robinson+Cole Lawyer with Emerging Young Professional Leadership Award

The Construction Institute selected Robinson+Cole lawyer Keane E. Aures as one of three "Emerging Young Professional Leaders." Mr. Aures was recognized at the Construction Institute’s Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on June 16, 2016.

Mr. Aures is an active member of the Construction Institute and has been involved with the organization’s Young Professionals Council, has made valuable contributions to its Membership Committee, has been involved with its Golf Committee, and was invited to introduce one of the speakers at its Visionaries Forum. At Robinson+Cole, he concentrates his practice in the areas of construction law, commercial litigation, and surety and fidelity law. Mr. Aures represents owners, contractors, trade contractors, sureties, and design professionals in both state and federal litigation. In addition, he counsels clients on all manner of construction-related contract drafting and negotiation, including contracts for colleges and universities, international manufacturing facilities, research and industry facilities, corporate offices, and various other commercial construction projects.

Todd Regan Named Top Young Professional for 2016

Todd R. Regan, a partner in Robinson+Cole's Construction Group, was recently honored by Engineering News-Record New England by being selected as one of the construction industry's Top Young Professionals for 2016. Mr. Regan was one of just nine construction industry professionals from across New England to receive the recognition, which was given for "leadership, industry work and community service." The honorees will be profiled in the August 1, 2016, edition of Engineering News-Record New England.

Engineering News-Record is a weekly publication that provides construction news and information to industry professionals worldwide.

Joe Barra Presents to MIBA on Building Information Modeling (BIM) Contract Form

Construction lawyer Joseph A. Barra presented at MIBA's (Massachusetts Integrated BIM Approach) recent session on the contract implications of using BIM. (MIBA's purpose is to develop a consistent and unified approach to project planning and use of BIM.) In attendance were several of the Commonwealth's Public Agencies including DCAM and MDOT. During his presentation, he introduced Massport's BIM Exhibit, the first of its kind for any public agency in Massachusetts.

Keane Aures Participates in Construction Institute Events

Construction lawyer Keane E. Aures recently attended two Construction Institute (CI) events. He participated in the CI's Young Professional Event, held on March 10, 2016. Attendees worked with the executive director to formulate and shape the direction of the organization's Young Professionals section.

On April 21,2016, Mr. Aures took part in the Construction Institute's 7th Annual Visionaries Forum, held at Yale University. Click here to see him introducing one of the speakers for this event. This forum celebrates innovation by bringing together pioneers who are shaping the future of design, construction, and management for the A/E/C industry.

Robinson+Cole Forms Sustainability Cross-Practice Team

Robinson+Cole announced today that lawyers from a variety of its practice areas have formally come together to form an interdisciplinary Sustainability Group. Comprised of lawyers with deep experience and a history of collaborating to handle sustainability issues related to energy, environmental, tax, intellectual property, real estate, finance, mergers and acquisitions, and construction matters, the team is positioned to offer clients a comprehensive approach to incorporating sustainable designs and practices into their business.

The lawyers in the group routinely counsel clients on addressing sustainable practices such as using renewable and alternative energy, recycling and conserving water and other resources, financing green initiatives, following LEED and green construction practices, implementing corporate sustainability programs, managing climate change risks through adaptation and mitigation, and establishing clean-tech ventures.

Joe Barra Featured in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Article

Joseph A. Barra was interviewed and quoted in the article "Homeowner's orders fail to save contractor," published on January 14, 2016, in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. The article discusses a case where the plaintiffs hired a construction company to replace their roof. Instead of replacing the roof, the company placed a new rubber membrane over the existing roof. After discovering that this violated the building code, the plaintiffs sued the company to recover the cost of replacing the roof. The Appeals Court decided that a contractor is liable under Chapter 93A for a building code violation even if the homeowner agrees to the work performed or even orders that it be done. In discussing the implications, Mr. Barra said, in part, that "contractors have a duty to investigate the conditions at a property, rather than relying on a homeowner's word," and when faced with a situation where the owner is asking the contractor to ignore an almost certain building code violation, it might be wise for the contractor to "simply walk away from the job."

Mr. Barra is a construction lawyer in Robinson+Cole's Boston office.

Joe Barra Co-presents at ACEC/MA Program

Construction lawyer Joseph A. Barra spoke at a Transportation Update Meeting sponsored by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Massachusetts (ACEC/MA) on December 1, 2015, in Boston, Massachusetts. Along with Dr. Luciana Burdi and Danielle Arciero of Massport, Mr. Barra presented on "Massport's BIM Addenda & Lean Update."

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Elected to Goodspeed Opera House Board of Trustees

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Among Connecticut Law Tribune’s “New Leaders in the Law”

Robinson+Cole construction lawyer Todd R. Regan was selected as one of the Connecticut Law Tribune's "New Leaders in the Law" for 2015. Mr. Regan was honored at an awards dinner on November 4 at The Bond Ballroom in downtown Hartford with the other honorees. The class of 50 honorees was also recognized in the New Leaders in the Law 2015 Yearbook published on November 2. The "New Leaders in the Law" recognizes lawyers under the age of 40 for achievements in their legal work, pro bono efforts, and community involvement. Read more in the news release.

Peter Strniste Comments on Hartford's Construction Projects and the Risks Associated with Project Delays in HBJ Article

In the article "Construction brings excitement, risk to Hartford," published in the Hartford Business Journal on October 19, 2015, Peter E. Strniste comments on the many new construction projects in the works throughout Hartford. In this context, Mr. Strniste discusses the inherent costs associated with project delays and how to allocate and transfer associated risks within a construction contract. In particular, he reviews "No Damages for Delay" clauses and "Liquidated Damages" provisions. To avoid the repercussions of a project delay, he suggests that project participants, including public and private owners, developers, and contractors, have "an open and informed discussion about unanticipated delays at the commencement of every project" as well as "allocate the risks and costs within their written contracts."

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.

Construction Lawyers Present at NASBP Regional Meeting

Construction partners Peter E. Strniste and Todd R. Regan presented "Deciphering and Navigating the Terms and Conditions of Industry and Modified Bond Forms" at the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) Regional Meeting on September 28, 2015, in Amelia Island, Florida. More than 150 construction bond agents and surety underwriters attended the session. Mr. Strniste and Mr. Regan guided the participants through the key bond form provisions, identifying areas to focus on when reviewing modified or "home grown" bond forms. They also discussed common modifications to the bond forms and the differences, pros and cons, for the surety and contractor between popular bond forms. Finally, they examined the risks associated with certain modified bond provisions and discussed P3 bond forms and projects.

Peter Strniste Selected as Finalist for AGC Service Provider of the Year

The Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Connecticut has nominated Robinson+Cole construction partner Peter E. Strniste as a finalist for the Service Provider of the Year Award as part of the its 2015 Industry Recognition Awards. Nominated individuals demonstrate leadership and professionalism as well as display working practices that reflect skill, integrity, and responsibility in service to the construction industry. This year's winner will be announced at the October 15, 2015, Awards Dinner. The AGC of Connecticut is a chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, which is the leading association for the construction industry, representing more than 26,000 firms, including over 6,500 of America's leading general contractors and over 9,000 specialty contracting firms.

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.

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Named to Hartford Business Journal’s “40 Under Forty”

Robinson+Cole construction lawyer Todd R. Regan has been selected as one of the Hartford Business Journal's "40 Under Forty" for 2015. A panel of judges chose the honorees for their extraordinary leadership qualities, ongoing commitment to personal and professional development, and outstanding accomplishments that have made an impact in their various business sectors. The 2015 class of 40 Under Forty will be recognized at an awards celebration on September 30 and were profiled in a special supplement of the Hartford Business Journal on July 20. Read more in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Construction Lawyers Build with Habitat for Humanity

Robinson+Cole's Construction Group shelved their legal tools for a day to pick up power tools at a Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity build on April 29, 2015. The team was right at home on the site in East Hartford, building steps to the front and back of the house, adding lattice work around the front porch, and painting inside.

"Every year our team takes time to get together outside the office and talk shop, and this year we wanted to combine that annual retreat with giving back to the community," said Gregory R. Faulkner, chair of Robinson+Cole's Construction Group. "Working with Habitat for Humanity was a natural choice for us that let us get on a building site in a different role than we're used to, but one that we all enjoyed."

Read more and see pictures from the build in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Successfully Defends Connecticut Municipality in Construction Contract Case

Robinson+Cole successfully defended a Connecticut municipality in a lawsuit brought by a contractor against the municipality. In a decision released in early April 2015, the Connecticut Supreme Court unanimously held that a municipality that elects to terminate a contractor for its own convenience may still recover liquidated damages for project delays incurred prior to the termination of the contract. The Court also rejected the contractor's claim that the municipality could not collect liquidated damages because it was at least partially at fault for the delays in completing the project, clarifying that, if a contract provides for an extension of the contract's termination date, due to delays not caused by the contractor, then collection of liquidated damages is not strictly abrogated under Connecticut law. The firm's Construction Group, in particular, construction lawyer Dennis C. Cavanaugh, defended the municipality at trial on the merits. Business litigation lawyer Christopher J. Hug assisted with expert witnesses.

The contractor appealed the decision, claiming the municipality was precluded from seeking liquidated damages because it had elected to terminate the contract for convenience rather than for cause. The Supreme Court rejected the contractor's attempts to have the Court adopt a general rule that liquidated damages could never be recovered when a contract had been terminated for convenience. The Court similarly rejected the contractor's claim that Connecticut law bars an owner from seeking liquidated damages when it is partially at fault for the delays in the project. The firm's Appellate Group, specifically Linda L. Morkan, defended the appeal.

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Elected to Hartford Performs Board of Directors

Robinson+Cole construction lawyer Lisa B. Andrzejewski has been elected to the Board of Directors of Hartford Performs. Hartford Performs is a collaborative network of Hartford Public Schools, arts providers, community organizations, funders, and other supporters working together to deliver quality arts education programs to Hartford Public School students. As of the 2014-2015 school year, Hartford Performs supports arts integration programming for students in 28 Hartford public elementary schools. Read more in the press release.

Peter Strniste Speaks at Annual RCA Conference

Peter E. Strniste, Jr., construction partner in the Hartford office, spoke to a group of over 100 contractors and retail owners at the Retail Contractor Association's (RCA) Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 14, 2015. Founded in 1990, the RCA is a national organization comprising high-caliber retail contractors united to provide a solid foundation of ethics, quality, and professionalism to the retail construction industry. Mr. Strniste, the keynote speaker, discussed strategies for avoiding and minimizing subcontractor defaults. He also reviewed best practices for selecting subcontractors, essential subcontract terms, and the proper procedure for defaulting and terminating a subcontractor. His presentation also provided a primer of pitfalls for the retail owner, landlord, and contractor when one of the parties files for bankruptcy protection as well as various strategies for protecting the owner and contractor in a construction bankruptcy.

Todd Regan Joins NASBP Attorney Advisory Council

Construction lawyer Todd R. Regan has been selected to serve on the Attorney Advisory Council of the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP). Founded in 1942, the NASBP, with over 5,000 members, serves as the national association of, and resource for, surety bond producers. Its role is to engage decision makers and strategic partners; advocate for access to surety bonding, preservation of bonding requirements, and nondiscriminatory practices; advance the role of surety professionals; and empower surety professionals with grassroots efforts. The NASBP Attorney Advisory Council comprises eight lawyers with knowledge in various sectors of the industry, including, but not limited to, construction, government contracts, and surety.

Mr. Regan's practice is dedicated to the construction and surety industries. He represents the full range of construction and surety industry stakeholders in claims involving project delays and inefficiencies, defective design and construction, unfair trade practices and bad faith, and mechanic's liens and bond claims. He has argued before the First Circuit Court of Appeals and the Connecticut Supreme Court on significant legal issues concerning the construction and surety industries. He also counsels construction industry members in negotiating and drafting project-related agreements.

Martin Onorato Moderates Ireland's Great Hunger Museum Program

Construction Group partner Martin A. Onorato organized and moderated a program and presentation by key team members for the award-winning Ireland's Great Hunger Museum project near Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut, on December 9, 2014. The program speakers included the architect, contractor, and owner, who spoke on how collaboration and best practices were used to renovate an 1890 library building into a museum housing Quinnipiac University's growing historical and contemporary artwork devoted to Ireland's famine. The period from 1845 to 1852 saw Ireland's population drop by half due to death and emigration. The museum won the 2014 Project Team Award from the Connecticut Building Congress in the small projects category.

Martin Onorato Presents AIA Connecticut Awards

Martin A. Onorato, Construction Group partner and chair of the Professional Practice Committee of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Connecticut, presented the winners of the 2014 Business Awards at the AIA Connecticut Awards Reception, held at The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine at the UConn Health Center on December 2, 2014. These statewide awards honor architects and their clients whose projects enhance the built environment and achieve business goals. This year, the winning projects included the headquarters of Clarity Software Solutions in Madison, Connecticut, and the addition and renovations to the Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry, Connecticut.

Robinson+Cole Welcomes New Lawyers

Joe Barra Speaks on Climate Change

Construction lawyer Joseph A. Barra served as a panelist at a program sponsored by the New England Chapter of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) on September 16, 2014. The session, entitled "Overview of Resiliency and Massachusetts Implementation Plans," addressed the need in Massachusetts to emphasize resiliency in design and construction and to modify the Commonwealth's infrastructure in order to cope with the challenges of climate change. Mr. Barra, along with the other panelists from the Massachusetts Port Authority and UMASS Memorial Hospital, spoke about the progress that has been made so far and the challenges that lie ahead.

Robinson+Cole Launches HigherEdWire – News for legal counsel

Robinson+Cole's Education Law Group has launched a LinkedIn Group as a forum for discussions on news and legal developments affecting institutions of higher education. The group, HigherEdWire – News for legal counsel, can be found at http://www.linkedin.com/groups/HigherEdWire-News-legal-counsel-7464519.

"Colleges and universities face legal issues in a variety of areas that continually change," said Megan R. Naughton, co-chair of the firm's Immigration Group. "Our education team monitors the pressing developments faced by educational institutions, and we wanted to create a source to share those updates on developing stories and trends that also encourages dialogue with those in the industry. LinkedIn provides that platform."

Hartford Lawyers Present Education Law Program to UHart Students

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

Peter Strniste Presents at Connecticut Surety Association

Construction partner Peter E. Strniste presented to a group of forty construction professionals at the Connecticut Surety Association's Spring Meeting in Hartford, Connecticut, on May 22, 2014. Mr. Strniste dissected the language contained within various construction bond forms, including the popular AIA A311 and A312 Performance Bonds and several modified versions, and discussed the legal consequences of the original and modified verbiage and the associated risks. The Connecticut Surety Association is a sister organization of the American Surety Association. Its members consist of construction bond agents and surety underwriters who serve construction managers, general contractors, and subcontractors throughout New England. Mr. Strniste has served on the Executive Board of this organization since 2004.

Greg Faulkner Presents Legal Exposure Session at the Construction Institute

Gregory R. Faulkner, construction lawyer and chair of Robinson+Cole's Construction Law Group, presented the workshop "Management of Legal Exposure" at the Construction Institute (CI) in Hartford, Connecticut, on April 22, 2014. Joining him in this encore presentation from December 2013 was Roy Cooper, P.E., of ARCADIS. Mr. Faulkner and Mr. Cooper discussed a comprehensive list of potential legal issues that can result from missteps of project participants. The presentation is part of CI's Project Management Certificate Series.

The mission of CI is "to connect the professionals who contribute to the design, construction, and operation of the built environment and to promote mutual action to improve the delivery and management of our nation's facilities."

Keane Aures Presents at Connecticut Building Congress Program

Boston Lawyers Prepare Students to Deliver Oral Arguments

For the third consecutive fall, Boston lawyers Clive D. Martin and Kendra L. Berardi coached middle school students in the Discovering Justice program "Stand Up for Your Rights." Mr. Martin and Ms. Berardi taught fifth to eighth grade students from the Edward W. Brooke Charter School in Roslindale about the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the basic elements of legal procedure and oral argument, using a hypothetical case involving the search of a middle school student by the school principal. The program culminated on the evening of November 10, 2013, with teams of students, including 15 from the Brooke School, delivering oral arguments in the Moakley Courthouse before judges from the U.S. District Court, the Supreme Judicial Court, the Appeals Court, and the Land Court. The courtrooms were crowded with families, friends, teachers, and onlookers. Voulenteer judges assisted Chief Justice Karyn Scheier of the Massachusetts Land Court in commenting on and critiquing the Brooke School students. The student appellate lawyers acquitted themselves extremely well and made their coaches proud.

Pictured are the happy students after their oral arguments with their two R+C coaches, a third coach from the law firm Saul Ewing, Judge Scheier, and the two additional appellate advisory judges.

Construction Lawyer Serves as Panelist at AGC Workshop

Construction Lawyer Presents Legal Exposure Session at CI

Robinson & Cole Elects Four New Partners and Promotes Six Counsel

Martin Onorato Moderates Diversity Program

Robinson & Cole Receives 34 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Three National Rankings in U.S. News – Best Lawyers Survey

Super Lawyers® Names 61 Robinson & Cole Attorneys to 2013 List

Connecticut Landmarks Appoints Todd Regan to Board of Trustees

Boston Lawyer's Views on BIM Highlighted in Engineering News-Record

A more comprehensive analysis of how the law applies to BIM risks can be found in Mr. Barra's brochure entitled Building Information Modeling: Now that you know how to spell BIM, is it right for you and your project?

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."

Hartford Construction Lawyers Present at SFCI's Annual Meeting

Hartford Construction Lawyer Presents to the Connecticut Surety Association

The Connecticut Surety Association is a sister organization of the American Surety Association and its members comprise construction bond agents and surety underwriters. Mr. Strniste has served as an officer of this organization for several years.

Joseph Barra to Present at Upcoming Massachusetts Construction Law Series

Hartford Construction Lawyer Presents at CBA Meeting

Robinson & Cole Sponsors Welcome Reception at ABA's 2013 Construction Forum Annual Meeting

Construction law lawyers Dennis C. Cavanaugh and Gregory R. Faulkner attended the two-day forum. Click here to view their picture in front of the sponsor sign at the Welcome Reception.

Boston Lawyer Receives CMAA's Distinguished Service Award

Robinson & Cole Sponsors Annual Joint Dinner of the Design and Construction Industry

This annual event creates an opportunity for members of more than 30 professional organizations to network and form career-building relationships.

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Selected for Top Women Attorneys in Massachusetts

Construction Lawyers Present at Seminar on Construction Defect Litigation

Robinson & Cole Lawyers Selected as James W. Cooper Fellows of the Connecticut Bar Foundation

The Connecticut Bar Foundation has elected Robinson & Cole lawyers Dennis C. Cavanaugh, Steven L. Elbaum, Gregory R. Faulkner, Christopher J. Hug, Eric Lukingbeal, Earl W. Phillips Jr., and Brian R. Smith as Fellows to the James W. Cooper Fellows Program. The program honors leaders in the legal profession and the judiciary in Connecticut. Membership in the Fellows is by invitation only. The program promotes a better understanding of the legal profession and the judicial system and explores ways to improve the profession and the administration of justice in Connecticut. The Fellows Program has approximately 850 to 900 members.

Robinson & Cole Receives 32 First-Tier Metropolitan Rankings and Four National Rankings in U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

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.

Construction Partner Talks About Mediation on Panel Discussion

Robinson & Cole Expands Offices and Practice Areas with the Addition of New Associates

Robinson & Cole has expanded its reach geographically and in practice depth and breadth with the addition of four new associates to its Hartford, Stamford, and New York offices. Robert M. Barrack has joined the firm in Hartford, Jona Kim in Stamford, and Kristen N. Smith in New York City.

Ten Robinson & Cole Attorneys Selected as “Lawyers of the Year”

• Bruce B. Barth, Hartford Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law Lawyer of the Year
• Dennis C. Cavanaugh, Hartford Litigation - Construction Lawyer of the Year
• Michael R. Enright, Hartford Litigation - Bankruptcy Lawyer of the Year
• Richard A. Krantz, Stamford Securities Regulation Lawyer of the Year
• Dwight H. Merriam, Hartford Litigation - Land Use & Zoning Lawyer of the Year
• Earl W. Phillips, Jr., Hartford Environmental Law Lawyer of the Year
• Kathleen M. Porter, Boston Information Technology Law Lawyer of the Year
• Norman H. Roos, Hartford Banking and Finance Law Lawyer of the Year
• Robert H. Smith, Jr., Hartford Litigation - Trusts & Estates Lawyer of the Year
• James A. Wade, Hartford Litigation - Antitrust Lawyer of the Year

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."

Robinson & Cole Welcomes Twelve New Attorneys in Five Offices Expanding its Presence across the Northeast

Robinson & Cole is pleased to announce that two partners and ten other lawyers have joined the firm's ranks across its Northeast offices. The new attorneys add a depth and breadth of experience to various practice areas, including business, labor & employment, finance, litigation, land use, and construction.

Robinson & Cole Construction Partners Contribute to Connecticut Construction Guidelines

Construction Partner Discusses Contract Law with Civil Engineers

Construction Partner Delivers Presentation on Joint Ventures

Super Lawyers® Renames Two Robinson & Cole Partners to Top 50 List in Connecticut

Construction Lawyer Attends Firm Sponsored Joint Design and Construction Industries Dinner

Construction Partner Spoke on Panel for Design-Build Projects in New England

Robinson & Cole Adds Two New Associates in Hartford

Article on Massachusetts Lien Law by Construction Partner Published in Construction Management Association Newsletter

Robinson & Cole Announces Partner Promotions

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."

Construction Attorney Presents Paper and Moderates Discussion at Defense Research Institute's Fidelity and Surety Roundtable

The roundtable discussion focused on the defense of subdivision performance and maintenance bond claims in today’s post-residential housing bubble.

More than 60 in-house claims attorneys, outside counsel and consultants attended the event. The Fidelity and Surety Roundtable is held annually in May in Chicago. The event provides a forum for an informative discussion on various aspects of surety and fidelity claims handling practices.

Martin Onorato Elected President of Connecticut Building Congress

Joseph Barra Gives Practical Tips at the MCLE Construction Law and Litigation Seminar

Construction Partner Moderates Connecticut Building Congress Panel Discussion

Construction Attorney Presents at Annual Commercial Construction & Renovation Summit

Peter Strniste Authors Article Regarding Risks Associated With Contractual LEED Certification Requirements

The newsletter is distributed to hundreds of retailers and subcontractors throughout New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Jersey.

Construction Attorneys Onorato and Cunha Present Webinar on Construction Management

Construction partner Martin A. Onorato copresented the webinar “Avoiding the Six Common Mistakes of CM Practice” with Frank C. White Jr. of Chubb Group on April 21, 2011, hosted by the Construction Management Association of America.

The webinar identified six common mistakes of construction management agency practice, examined the language in the Construction Management Association of America’s standard contract forms that apply to these mistakes, and reviewed the applicable provisions of an insurance policy designed for construction managers.

Attorney Writes Chapter About Performance Bonds and Contractor Default Insurance for Book

Rebecca Levy-Sachs Discusses Green and Property Insurance at the FDCC Winter Meeting

Ms. Levy-Sachs is chair of the Property Insurance Section of the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel, an international organization of experienced attorneys specializing in defense of civil litigation, corporate counsel, risk managers, and insurance claims executives.

Construction Attorney Gives Tips for the Expert Witness

To read the full article of “So You’re Going to Be an Expert Witness…Part III – Cross-Examination,” click here.

Joseph A. Barra Joins Robinson & Cole’s Construction Group

Construction Attorney Participates in Two Panels

Robinson & Cole LLP Receives Most Connecticut First-Tier Rankings in Inaugural U.S.News - Best Lawyers Survey

Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected General Chair of Connecticut Swimming, Inc.

Connecticut Swimming, Inc. has more than 5,000 athlete members and more than 70 different clubs servicing the geographical area of Connecticut.

Robinson & Cole Attorney Participates on Panel during Construction Program

Robinson & Cole Attorney Appointed to Rocky Hill Planning and Zoning Commission

Robinson & Cole Attorney Reelected Vice President of Connecticut Surety Association

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present on Architectural Copyright Law

Robinson & Cole Attorney Elected to Board of Directors for the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects

Robinson & Cole Attorneys Present on Employment Program to Connecticut Chapter of American Institute of Architects

Robinson & Cole Partner Authors Chapter in Construction and Design Law Guide

Mr. Cavanaugh’s chapter provides a comprehensive review of Connecticut design and construction law and is a valuable resource for lawyers negotiating or reviewing construction or design contracts for projects outside their jurisdiction. The guide is published by the Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section of the American Bar Association. Construction partner Martin A. Onorato and associate Keane E. Aures assisted Mr. Cavanaugh with the drafting of this chapter.

Books by Robinson & Cole LandLaw Partners on Best Seller List