Robinson+Cole Presents 2023 Awards for Outstanding Contributions

On July 27, 2023, Robinson+Cole recognized 18 lawyers and staff members for their pro bono work, mentoring, community service and efforts to promote a healthy, diverse and inclusive work environment as part of the firm's annual awards.

The Pro Bono Award is presented by the firm’s Pro Bono Committee and honors individuals for their outstanding commitment to Robinson+Cole’s pro bono initiative. This year’s honorees were Dan Brody, Amanda Phillips, Land Use Analyst Chris Schaut and Philadelphia Office Coordinator Maranda Kenny.

The Robinson+Cole Mentor of the Year Award recognizes outstanding guidance, support, and encouragement of fellow lawyers and staff in their pursuit of professional growth. This year’s award was presented to Arial Zhou, Peter Meggers, Jessica Bardi and Finance Accounting Specialist Lauren Moore.

In addition, Dana Horton, Trevor Bradley, IT Support Analyst Jason Cap and Immigration Paralegal Alexandra Collins were all recognized with the Community Service Award for their continued volunteerism.

The 2023 Robinson+Cole's Diversity and Inclusion Awardees included John Mutchler, Mallori Thompson and Senior Attorney Career Development Manager Drew Collins, who were honored for their ongoing dedication and support of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

As a result of the high level of engagement in activities as the firm, the Wellbeing Award was established with Kathryn Rattigan, Business Litigation Paralegal Michelle Finnegan and Benefits Manager Julianna Shuter receiving the inaugural recognition.

Anna Wang and Tim Chen Volunteer for AABANY Pro Bono Clinic

Capital Markets + Securities Team lawyers Jinhua (Anna) Wang and Tiange (Tim) Chen volunteered at the Asian American Bar Association of New York’s (AABANY) Pro Bono Legal Clinic in Chinatown, NY on May 17, 2023. AABANY’s monthly Pro Bono Legal Clinic provides community members in need, many of whom have limited English proficiency, with general legal information and consultations on a myriad of matters involving housing, immigration, criminal law, fraud, family and matrimonial law, wills, small business loans, etc. Since opening in 2015, the Legal Clinic helped many individuals in the Asian American community in New York through its walk-in clinics. For more information, click here.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Named to CCADV’s First 100 Plus Class of 2023

Robinson+Cole lawyers Kelly Butricks, Benjamin Daniels, Andrew DePeau and Eric Rigoli as well as 2022 summer associate Theresa Lane, have been named to the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) First 100 Plus Class of 2023 during the organization’s 12th Annual Breakfast & Awards Ceremony on May 5, 2023, at the Hartford Marriott Downtown in Hartford, Connecticut.

The First 100 Plus Class of 2023 is comprised of leaders working to improve the lives of domestic violence survivors and their families in Connecticut. These lawyers, with varied backgrounds and practices, have all made vital contributions to their state and local communities. Robinson+Cole Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group chair, Kenneth C. Baldwin, serves on CCADV’s Board of Directors. Read more in the press release.

Pro Bono Committee Hosts Center for Children’s Advocacy in Stamford Office

Robinson+Cole’s Pro Bono Committee hosted a breakfast for the Center for Children’s Advocacy (CCA) in the firm’s Stamford office on March 8, 2023. The event served as a forum to learn more about the CCA’s Immigrant Children’s Justice Project, which helps at-risk immigrant children avoid deportation, and helps traumatized kids get the support they need to succeed in the United States. The breakfast also served as a launch for the CCA’s upcoming training program (March 16 and 17) on representing undocumented children in obtaining Special Immigrant Juvenile status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Among the R+C participants were Pro Bono Partner, Peter Knight, Stamford Office Partner in Charge and CCA volunteer, Megan Baroni, and Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer and CCA volunteer, Stephani Roman.

MCLE New England Establishes Robinson & Cole LLP Scholarship Fund

Robinson+Cole has made a generous contribution of $25,000 to Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. New England’s (MCLE) scholarship endowment to establish the Robinson & Cole LLP Scholarship Fund in support of pro bono and legal aid training. The fund will annually support ten scholarships to MCLE programs for deserving lawyers who serve the public interest, including private practitioners who accept pro bono cases and legal aid staff attorneys who, day in and day out, serve those in need. Kendra Berardi serves as Clerk of the Board of Trustees of MCLE, a nonprofit corporation whose mission is “to keep raising the caliber of lawyers’ professional and ethical service to their clients and communities by providing comprehensive and practical continuing legal education of the highest quality to the broadest possible audience.” Read more. 

Keisha Palmer Recognized as a Pro Bono Champion by American Bar Association Commission on Immigration

Public Finance Group lawyer and partner in charge of Robinson+Cole’s Hartford office Keisha S. Palmer was among the “2022 Pro Bono Champions” named by the American Bar Association (ABA) Commission on Immigration, which directs the ABA’s efforts to ensure fair treatment and full due process rights for immigrants, asylum-seekers, and refugees within the United States. Keisha received the award in recognition of her pro bono volunteer work with the Commission’s South Texas Pro Bono Asylum Representation Project (ProBAR), which empowers immigrants through high-quality legal education, representation, and connections to services. ProBAR serves immigrants in the Rio Grande Valley border region with a particular focus on the legal needs of adults and unaccompanied children in federal custody. Keisha currently represents two asylum seekers on their cases to adjust their status to permanent residents of the USA. Read more about ProBAR.

Anna Wang Receives Third Recognition for Pro Bono Service Provided to the New York State Courts Access to Justice Program

Business Transactions Group lawyer Anna Jinhua Wang was once again selected to receive a certificate of recognition as part of the New York County Lawyers Association’s virtual Pro Bono Awards ceremony for her dedicated service to the New York State Courts Access to Justice Program. This is the third year Anna has been recognized for her pro bono service to the Program. Hosted with the New York State Bar Association and New York State Unified Court System’s Office for Justice Initiatives in celebration of National Pro Bono week, the ceremony took place on October 25, 2022. The New York State Courts Access to Justice Program is one of the Unified Court System’s many programs and initiatives which strive to increase access, improve the delivery of justice and promote public confidence in the courts.

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

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

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

Robinson+Cole Presented with Pro Bono Award from Lawyers for Children America

Robinson+Cole was honored by Lawyers for Children America (LFCA) for having contributed the single largest amount of pro bono services to the organization in both 2020 and 2021, as measured by the estimated monetary value of the work of the firm's volunteers among all law firms in the state, according to LFCA Executive Director, Priscilla Pappadia. Robinson+Cole's longstanding commitment and exceptional pro bono contributions were recognized during the LFCA Awards Gala attended by some 150 people at the Glastonbury (CT) Boathouse on June 8, 2022.

LFCA is a leading child advocacy organization, working to protect the rights of children who are victims of abuse, neglect and abandonment, by providing the highest level of direct pro bono legal representation. LFCA’s annual awards evening celebrates the work of volunteer attorneys, corporate law departments and law firms serving Connecticut children in need.

In 2019, R+C Pro Bono Committee Chair, Peter Knight was honored by the Connecticut office of LFCA as an outstanding individual pro bono volunteer.

Robinson+Cole Joins Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Pro Bono Project for Ukraine

Robinson+Cole is one of the major law firms in the country that has joined an initiative sponsored by Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG) to assist eligible Ukrainian nationals in the United States who are applying for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), an 18-month designation conferred by the Department of Homeland Security. Individuals who are granted TPS are generally protected from removal and deportation proceedings; allowed to work; able to travel abroad in some circumstances; and in certain states can receive IDs and access to Medicaid.

“Representing immigrants and refugees facing violence and repression in their home countries in securing legal status in the United States has been a pillar of our pro bono program,” said Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda Tobin. “The recent designation of Temporary Protected Status to Ukrainians currently in the United States provides Robinson+Cole an opportunity to assist individuals with those applications, and we will continue to explore other pro bono opportunities as well.”

The TPS Pro Bono Project for Ukraine has has recruited more than 2,400 attorney volunteers from 130 major law firms and companies and is an initiative of L4GG’s Project Corazon, an immigrants’ rights program defending the rights of asylum seekers and other migrants. Read more about the Project.

Robinson+Cole Donates More Than $40K to Aid in Ukraine Relief Efforts

Robinson+Cole has contributed more than $40,000 to support the humanitarian aid efforts being provided by various organizations and agencies in Ukraine and the countries in the region that are supporting the Ukrainian people in response to the current crisis. Among those organizations are the Red Cross, Direct Relief, Global Empowerment Mission, Save the Children and United Help Ukraine. The donation was a result of individual contributions by Robinson+Cole employees that were matched by the firm.

In early March, Managing Partner Rhonda J. Tobin issued a firmwide communication that Robinson+Cole would match financial contributions made by its lawyers and staff to causes providing food, housing, medicine and transportation for those fleeing Ukraine. “Robinson+Cole has a long history of responding to those in need,” she said. “This time is no different for us to act together to show that same support.” Read more in the press release. 

Seth Orkand Appointed to Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Standing Committee on Pro Bono Legal Services

Business Litigation Group lawyer Seth B. Orkand has been appointed by the Justices of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court to serve as a member of the Standing Committee on Pro Bono Legal Services. Established in August 1999, the Standing Committee on Pro Bono Legal Services works to promote volunteer legal work in Massachusetts to help people of limited means who are in need of legal representation. Seth’s term will run through October 31, 2025. Learn more about the Committee.

Robinson+Cole “Makes Its Mark” with Pro Bono Partnership 25th Anniversary Pledge

Robinson+Cole is proud to affirm its continuing commitment as a program participant and financial supporter of the Pro Bono Partnership, which offers business and transactional legal services to nonprofits, as the organization celebrates its 25th Anniversary by launching the “Make Your Mark” Pledge (PBP25 Pledge). Robinson+Cole and other pledging firms can achieve the volunteer initiative’s goal in one of three ways: logging 25 total volunteer hours on Partnership matters; having 25 volunteers who work on Partnership matters; or an individual volunteer working on 25 or more Partnership matters in 2022. Read more about the PBP25 Pledge.

Since its founding in 1997, the Pro Bono Partnership has assisted more than 4,000 nonprofits in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York on over 19,000 legal matters. These efforts have helped the Partnership’s clients more effectively serve their constituencies and communities, providing essential programs that feed the hungry, house the homeless, promote the arts, and protect the environment.

Robinson+Cole is proud to be a key sustaining ally in this critical work and thanks each of the dedicated volunteers who give their time and talents to offer crucial legal support. The firm currently has 50 percent of its lawyers logging some manner of pro bono hours as well as paralegals who receive billable hour credit for their pro bono work, underscoring Robinson+Cole’s longstanding commitment to this important contribution to the communities it serves. For nearly 15 years, the Partnership’s Hartford program resided within Robinson+Cole’s downtown Hartford offices. In addition, firm Partner Lauren Sigg serves as a member of its Hartford Advisory Board.

Alexandra Kritzman, Sandra Lautier, Stephani Roman, and Annecca Smith Named to CCADV’s First 100 Plus Class of 2022

Robinson+Cole lawyers Alexandra Kritzman, Sandra Marin Lautier, Stephani A. Roman, and Annecca H. Smith have been named to the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) First 100 Plus Class of 2022 during the organization’s 11th Annual Breakfast & Awards Ceremony on April 8, 2022, at the Hartford Marriott Downtown in Hartford, Connecticut.

The First 100 Plus Class of 2022 is comprised of leaders working to improve the lives of domestic violence survivors and their families in Connecticut. These lawyers, with varied backgrounds and practices, have all made vital contributions to their state and local communities. Read more in the press release. 

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

On July 29, 2021, Robinson+Cole recognized 14 lawyers and staff members for their pro bono work, mentoring, community service and efforts to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment as part of the firm's annual awards. The Pro Bono Award is presented by the firm’s Pro Bono Committee and honors individuals for their outstanding commitment to Robinson+Cole’s pro bono initiative. This year’s honorees were Charles E. Janson, Choity R. Khan and paralegal Albina Yaikbaeva. The Robinson+Cole Mentor of the Year Award recognizes outstanding guidance, support, and encouragement of fellow lawyers and staff in their pursuit of professional growth. This year’s award was presented to IT Services Manager Joel M. Easley, Katherine M. Fix, Dana M. Horton and Christopher J. Hug. In addition, Linn F. Freedman, Jennifer L. Shanley and Business Center Specialist Sandra M. Strate were all recognized with the Community Service Award for their continued volunteerism. Lastly, Robinson+Cole's Diversity and Inclusion Awardees Lisa B. Andrzejewski, Dan A. Brody, Chief Marketing Officer Gina L. Carriuolo and John B. Lynch, Jr. were honored for their ongoing dedication and support of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

Rhonda Tobin Featured in Law.com Profile

Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda J. Tobin was profiled in the article "Rhonda Tobin Making History as Robinson & Cole's First Female Leader" published in the Connecticut Law Tribune, New York Law Journal and New Jersey Law Journal on July 9, 2021. The article covers Robinson+Cole's 175th anniversary celebration; the execution of the firm's strategic plan; Robinson+Cole's culture of collaboration, including the launch of new diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; and how the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unexpected opportunities to embrace change. "Across all practices, Tobin said Robinson & Cole attorneys and staff deserve kudos for demonstrating resilience amid last year’s challenges, particularly with regard to pro bono efforts and community service. They really kept the mission and the culture of the firm going." Reflecting on her own career path, Rhonda also discusses the firm's willingness to support individual initiative. "In all of her leadership roles," Tobin said, she regularly tells associates at Robinson & Cole that "those who take initiative will invariably find more rewarding and fulfilling careers at the firm." Read the full article.

Charlie Janson’s Pro Bono Work Helps Bring Affordable Homeownership Housing to the South End of Stamford

Through the Pro Bono Partnership, Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Charles E. Janson represented the Housing Development Fund (HDF) in conceptualizing and incorporating a non-stock nonprofit community land trust known as HDF Community Land Trust, Inc. under Connecticut’s statutory land trust scheme intended to foster affordable housing development. HDF is a non-profit organization based in Stamford dedicated to facilitating the development of affordable rental and homeownership opportunities. A groundbreaking ceremony for the HDF Community Land Trust, the first community land trust in Fairfield County, was held on April 7, 2021 and is now in construction at 287-297 Washington Boulevard in Stamford. HDF Community Land Trust will permanently own and ground lease land on which 22 single family permanently deed restricted affordable residential homes, as condominium units, will be built and sold to families. R+C alum Jeffrey Volpintesta worked with Charlie on the pro bono effort. In addition, Charlie also represented HDF on a pro bono basis for its closing on a $750,000 grant from the Department of Housing as initial financial assistance for HDF’s Washington Boulevard community land trust affordable housing project. View the virtual groundbreaking ceremony.

Jon Schaefer Appointed to Statewide Legal Services Board of Directors

The Connecticut Bar Association’s Board of Governors voted unanimously at its December 14, 2020 meeting to appoint Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group member, Jon Schaefer, to the Statewide Legal Services Board of Directors. Upon confirmation during the organization’s January 25, 2021 meeting, Jon begins a three-year term. With this appointment, Robinson+Cole lawyers now serve in leadership roles on all four of the principal legal aid organizations in Connecticut, including Ed Heath, President of the Board of Directors of Greater Hartford Legal Aid, Peter Knight, a member of the Connecticut Legal Services Board of Directors, and Conor Duffy, who was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the New Haven Legal Assistance Association. 

Anna Wang Receives Recognition for Pro Bono Service

Business Transactions Group lawyer Anna Jinhua Wang was selected to receive a certificate of recognition to be presented at the New York County Lawyers Association’s first virtual Pro Bono Awards ceremony for her dedicated service in the New York State Courts Access to Justice Program. This is the second consecutive year Anna has been recognized for her pro bono service. Hosted with the New York State Bar Association and New York State Unified Court System’s Office for Justice Initiatives in celebration of National Pro Bono week, the ceremony took place on October 29 and included program presenters the Honorable Edwina Mendelson as well as the Presidents of the New York County Lawyers' Association and New York State Bar Association.

Robinson+Cole Continues Facilitation of Statewide COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic

As small businesses continue to confront the challenges presented by COVID-19, Robinson+Cole and the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) have announced that they will continue to facilitate the Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic and provide pro bono services throughout the fall to members of Connecticut’s small business community affected by the pandemic. Read more in the press release.

Those interested in learning more about the Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic, including registration for small business as well as attorney volunteers, please visit https://www.ctbar.org/home/coronavirus-response/covid-19-small-business-virtual-legal-clinic. 

Conor Duffy Appointed to New Haven Legal Assistance Board of Directors

Congratulations to Health Law Group and Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team member Conor Duffy, who was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of New Haven Legal Assistance Association (NHLAA), effective September 2020. NHLAA is a nonprofit organization comprising attorneys, paralegals and legal secretaries committed to protecting the rights and improving the lives of its clients and their communities. It provides high-quality legal services to individuals and groups unable to engage legal counsel and services due to limited income, age, disability, discrimination or other barriers. Incorporated in 1964, NHLAA was among the first legal services programs to be established, and the federal government has used it as a model for similar programs throughout the country.

Robinson+Cole Joins Law Firm Antiracism Alliance

Robinson+Cole has joined the newly-established Law Firm Antiracism Alliance (LFAA), an organization that is facilitating the coordination of its member firms to best enable legal services organizations, and the LFAA, to create large-scale, coordinated pro bono projects that address systemic racism. “Robinson+Cole is proud to participate in the LFAA,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Managing Partner of Robinson & Cole LLP. “We look forward to participating in this coordinated effort to promote inclusion and challenge racial and social injustice.” Read more in the press release. 

Peter Knight Quoted in ABA Journal Article on COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic

Pro Bono Chair Peter R. Knight was quoted in the article “Small businesses have COVID-19 questions, and the legal profession is working to answer them” published in the ABA Journal on June 29, 2020. The article highlights how attorneys across the country are assisting small businesses dealing with challenges that result from the COVID-19 pandemic and features the Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic, launched in partnership with the Connecticut Bar Association. “As expected, restaurants, jewelers and many other small businesses have asked how to access loan and grant programs and what they can do with those funds once they are received, says Peter Knight, Robinson+Cole’s pro bono partner, who works in the Hartford office and helps distribute requests to a group of more than 50 volunteer attorneys.” Read the full article.

Stephani Roman’s Pro Bono Service Leads to Client’s Pardon

Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyer Stephani A. Roman was among the volunteers that participated in Greater Hartford Legal Aid’s (GHLA) October 2019 pardon clinic, which resulted in eight clients having their criminal records fully expunged by the state Board of Pardons. Stephani, whose client will now be able to pursue her career dream of being a reentry advocate said in GHLA’s newsletter, “My client is thrilled. She is a phenomenal human being despite all that she has gone through, and working with her through the pardon clinic will leave a lasting impression on my heart.” These successful pardon petitioners will be able to obtain good jobs and decent apartments that have been unavailable to them, because a background check done by employers and landlords will now come back clean. This is a life-changing moment for the clinic participants, whose pardon petitions were prepared by volunteers from The Hartford, The Travelers Companies, Shipman & Goodman, Robinson+Cole, GHLA, and the UConn School of Law. Read more about the clinic in the April/May issue of the Connecticut Bar Association’s member magazine, Connecticut Lawyer. 

Peter Knight Discusses Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic During Small Business Matters Video Series

Pro Bono Chair Peter R. Knight was among the panelists that discussed the Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic, spearheaded by Robinson+Cole and the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA), during the webinar “Lawyers Lending a Hand in Recovery” presented as part of the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity (CWCSEO) Small Business Matters Series on June 12, 2020. Lightly moderated by CWCSEO Executive Director, Stephen Hernandez, the video series focuses on small businesses as the engine of growth in Connecticut. In addition to Peter, panelists included the CBA's President, President-elect, Vice President and Immediate Past President: Ndidi N. Moses, Amy Lin Meyerson, Cecil J. Thomas, and Jonathan Shapiro, along with Marie Caroline Bertrand of DayPitney and Ginny Kim, Managing Counsel of Raytheon Technologies. During the episode, the panelists talk about how the clinic was created, the disproportionate COVID-19 impact on the minority community, and the fact that small businesses, in particular, were hardest hit. The premise for the conversation was to promote visibility and interest by sharing information on the clinic with legislators, who can then pass on to their constituent communities. View the video of the webinar on the Commission’s Facebook page or on CT-N.

Peter Knight Featured on FOX 61 and in Connecticut Law Tribune About Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic

Pro Bono Committee Chair Peter R. Knight was interviewed by FOX 61 television anchor Brent Hardin on the recently launched Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic spearheaded by Robinson+Cole and the Connecticut Bar Association. During the interview, featured as part of the "Brent's Got Your Back" consumer news segment, Peter discussed the purpose of the clinic, how it will assist small businesses and nonprofits, and where people can find more information. View the full segment.

In addition, Peter was quoted in the article "Big Law Is Helping Small Businesses Get Back on Their Feet During COVID-19 Health Crisis" published in the Connecticut Law Tribune on May 20, 2020. Read the full article.

Robinson+Cole Facilitates Launch of Statewide COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic in Wake of Coronavirus Pandemic

Robinson+Cole and the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) will lead the Connecticut COVID-19 Small Business Virtual Legal Clinic as part of the nationwide program organized by Lawyers for Good Government to assist small businesses in weathering the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Providing pro bono service to our communities has been a cornerstone of our firm’s 175-year history,” said Stephen E. Goldman, Managing Partner of Robinson+Cole. “We are pleased to work with the Connecticut Bar Association and other participating law firms and in-house legal departments to help small businesses navigate the unique challenges they face during this unprecedented time.” Read more in the press release.

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

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

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

Peter Knight Honored for Providing Pro Bono Legal Services to Connecticut Children

Robinson+Cole Pro Bono Committee Chair Peter R. Knight was recognized by Lawyers for Children America (LFCA) for providing pro bono legal services to Connecticut children who are victims of abuse and neglect during the organization’s honor and awards event in Hartford, Connecticut on September 23, 2019. Peter has been an LFCA volunteer for more than twenty years and, in that time, has represented dozens of children of all ages, throughout the State in matters involving the Department of Children and Families in Connecticut Juvenile Court. Read more and view a photo in the press release. 

John Cordani Featured in Connecticut Law Tribune Article on Recent Pro Bono Case Win at the Connecticut Supreme Court

Business Litigation Group lawyer John L. Cordani was interviewed by the Connecticut Law Tribune for an article on the favorable Connecticut Supreme Court decision resulting from a case he handled pro bono. Published on August 16, 2019, the article outlines the outcome of State of Connecticut v. Eugene L. Walker, in which the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled 6-0 to order a new trial for convicted murderer, Eugene Walker, based on improper forensic DNA evidence. View the article.

Robinson+Cole Honored as “Volunteer of the Year” by Pro Bono Partnership

Robinson+Cole was honored with the “Volunteer of the Year” distinction by the Pro Bono Partnership (the Partnership) during an event hosted by the organization in celebration of volunteer lawyers who provided free legal services to nonprofit organizations throughout Connecticut in 2018. In addition to the firm’s Hartford law department being recognized, employment litigator and counselor Stephen W. Aronson was presented with an individual “Volunteer of the Year” honor for his outstanding individual contributions. This is the first time the Partnership has had an individual honoree come from the law firm honoree. Read more in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyers Help Reopen New London Harbor Lighthouse

Robinson+Cole lawyers John P. Casey and Evan J. Seeman represented the New London Maritime Society pro bono in litigation that resulted in the New London Harbor Lighthouse being reopened to the public after the City issued a cease and desist order that prohibited public tours. Read more in the press release. 

Ed Heath Elected President of Greater Hartford Legal Aid

Greater Hartford Legal Aid (GHLA), an organization whose mission is to secure justice for and to protect the rights of the needy residents of Hartford County, has elected Business Litigation Group lawyer Edward J. Heath to president and chair of its board of directors. For 60 years, GHLA has increased access to the courts, advocated for fairness in the application of law, and broken down barriers and improved systems while practicing preventive law. Ed previously served as vice president and has been a member of the board of directors for the last seven years. Read more in the press release.

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

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

Robinson+Cole Among Top 100 of Am Law 200 Law Firms Ranked for Pro Bono Work

Robinson+Cole moved up six positions to receive the #98 ranking among Am Law 200 law firms, the nation’s 200 highest-grossing firms, for pro bono work done in 2017. Half of each firm’s pro bono score was determined based on the average number of pro bono hours per lawyer in 2017, with the other half attributed to the percentage of lawyers who performed more than 20 hours of pro bono work in the same year. Robinson+Cole received a score of 34.9 with the average number of pro bono hours per lawyer coming in at 34.5 and 35.3 percent of lawyers performing 20+ hours of pro bono work.

Robinson+Cole Presents Annual Awards for Outstanding Contributions

Robinson+Cole recently recognized nine of its lawyers for their pro bono work, mentoring, and efforts to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Pro bono partner Peter R. Knight presented the firm’s Pro Bono Award to J. Tyler Butts, Jonathan E. Small, and Elizabeth K. Wright. Wystan M. Ackerman presented the Mentor of the Year Award, which recognized E. Christopher Kehoe, Rachel V. Kushel, Keisha S. Palmer, and Earl W. Philips, Jr. Lastly, the Diversity and Inclusion Award was given to David M. Panico and J. Michael Wirvin by John B. Lynch Jr.

Read more about the honorees and their work in the press release.

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

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

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

Jess Hamilton and Jon Small Recognized by the Center for Children’s Advocacy

The Center for Children’s Advocacy (CCA) recognized Insurance + Reinsurance Group lawyers Jessica A.R. Hamilton and Jonathan E. Small for providing pro bono representation to Connecticut’s immigrant children during the organization’s Spring for Kids! Champion of Children Awards Gala at Infinity Music Hall in Hartford, Connecticut on May 8, 2018. Ms. Hamilton and Mr. Small were among the lawyers recognized for not only participating in CCA's special immigrant juvenile status (SIJ) training, which trains attorneys for pro bono representation of undocumented children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned, but for also representing at least one child upon completion of the training. Read more and view a photo in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Recognized for Significant and Longstanding Dedication to Pro Bono Work

The Hartford County Bar Association (HCBA) presented Robinson+Cole with its 2018 Pro Bono Award during the organization’s annual Law Day Ceremony at Hartford Superior Court on May 4, 2018. The firm was nominated for the distinction by Statewide Legal Services (SLS) of Connecticut.

"Robinson+Cole continually demonstrates significant and longstanding dedication to the delivery of pro bono legal services,” said SLS Pro Bono Attorney Manager Ashleigh M. Backman. “The law firm has shown distinguished leadership in its efforts to bridge Connecticut’s access to civil justice gap affecting low-income men, women, and children in Connecticut.” Read more and view a photo in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Presents Second Annual George C. Hastings Community Service Award to the Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation

The second annual George C. Hastings Community Service Award was presented to the Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation during Robinson+Cole’s alumni reunion on September 19, 2017 at Dunkin’ Donuts Park. The award bears the name of the firm’s former partner, George C. Hastings, who practiced at Robinson+Cole from 1957 until his retirement in 1995.

Mr. Hastings had a prolific career as a lawyer and a community leader for over 60 years. Regarding the Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation, Mr. Hastings became president of the organization’s board of directors in 1994 and served in that role until 1999. After that, Mr. Hastings remained active on the Greater Hartford Legal Aid Foundation’s board until 2016. He was also the founder and longtime board member of The Bridge Family Center, which received the inaugural George C. Hastings Community Service Award last year. Read more and view a photo in the press release.

Robinson+Cole Honored for Longtime Support of Pro Bono Partnership

The Pro Bono Partnership’s Hartford Program presented Robinson+Cole with the Partnership’s inaugural Founders’ Award during a 10th anniversary celebration hosted by the firm on September 12, 2017.

Robinson+Cole has housed the Pro Bono Partnership’s Hartford Program for 10 years. In addition to donating office space and providing access to conference rooms, office services, and IT assistance, the firm’s lawyers have continually volunteered their time to participate in the Partnership’s pro bono projects.

"Robinson+Cole truly embodies the spirit of the Founders' Award, and I'm pleased to honor the firm with our inaugural award,” said Priya Morganstern, Hartford Program Director for the Pro Bono Partnership. “Robinson+Cole understands the importance of pro bono work and the tremendous positive impact nonprofits have on our community."

View the press release.

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

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

Stephen Cooper Honored for Pro Bono Service

The Pro Bono Partnership recognized Robinson+Cole business transactions lawyer Stephen E. Cooper as a Volunteer of the Year for 2016 during a reception on April 19, 2017. According to Maurice K. Segall, Director of the New York and Fairfield County Connecticut Program for the Pro Bono Partnership, Mr. Cooper was an obvious choice for this year’s recognition based on his longstanding commitment to the organization as well as the nature of the work he has done. A volunteer for nearly two decades, Mr. Cooper is well-known for his willingness to take on projects and the professionalism he demonstrates with his clients. Read more in the press release.

Ted O’Hanlan Participates in Connecticut Legislative Task Force on Legal Counsel in Civil Matters

In August 2016, State Senator Martin Looney appointed  Real Estate + Development Group lawyer Edward V. O’Hanlan as one of 30 working members of the Task Force to Increase Access to Legal Counsel in Civil Matters (Task Force), which was established by the Connecticut General Assembly in its 2016 legislative session. The Task Force, chaired by UConn Law School Dean Tim Fisher and former CBA president Bill Clendenen, worked for four months and issued its Final Report on December 15, 2016. 

The Task Force’s mission was set forth in the underlying legislation to identify the consequences of the lack of competent legal counsel to assist Connecticut residents in dealing with the civil—as distinct from criminal—legal system and to make specific recommendations for action where the need for civil counsel is particularly felt. The most salient needs the Task Force identified included (a) the civil process for orders of protection against domestic violence, (b) child custody and detained removal (deportation) matters, and (c) defense of residential evictions. 

Mr. O'Hanlan was a member of the Task Force subcommittee that drafted the section "Why Access to Legal Services Matters," in which studies were cited showing that the real dollar cost to society of these unmet civil counsel needs in civil process far exceeds the likely costs of effective programs of legal assistance in our courts. In addition, Mr. O’Hanlan, who participates in Robinson+Cole's pro bono effort with the Connecticut Veterans Legal Counsel, recommended language highlighting veterans' need for legal services, which is contained in the Final Report. Click here to view the Final Report in its entirety.

Robinson+Cole is the only private firm mentioned in the Task Force's Final Report for its pro bono efforts in handling issue-specific cases with Connecticut Legal Services, Greater Hartford Legal Aid, and the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more in the press release.

Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence Recognizes Robinson+Cole

The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) recognized Robinson+Cole with its Lawrence and Shirley Bostrom Pillars of Change Award at the First 100 Plus Awards Ceremony on November 6, 2015. The firm was honored for establishing the Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) Program, which provides pro bono representation to victims of domestic violence. Additionally, Robinson+Cole partner Nuala E. Droney was among the individuals honored in this year's First 100 Plus class. Ms. Droney was recognized for her long-running leadership of the firm's DVRO Program and her efforts to organize similar programs statewide with other law firms.

On November 2, Robinson+Cole hosted a groundbreaking training session for more than 35 lawyers interested in representing victims of domestic violence seeking restraining orders in Connecticut. The session, co-sponsored by the Connecticut Bar Association/Young Lawyers Section, encouraged lawyers at other firms to model their own pro bono programs after Robinson+Cole's DVRO Program. It featured presentations by the Honorable Elizabeth A. Bozzuto of the Connecticut Superior Court, Greater Hartford Legal Aid, CCADV, and Robinson+Cole. Attendees included attorneys from other major law firms, in-house corporate counsel, and Judicial Branch Court Operations. View a photo from the CCADV First 100 Awards Ceremony and learn more in the news release.

Robinson+Cole Lawyer Receives CAPP 2015 Business Leadership Award

Brian E. Moran, a business litigation partner in Robinson+Cole's Stamford office, received the CAPP Business Leadership Award on November 8, 2015, at the Ninth Annual Communion Breakfast for Business Leaders at Fairfield University. The award was conferred by Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice (CAPP), a lay-led, Vatican-based organization founded by Pope John Paul II in 1993. Mr. Moran was recognized for his significant contributions to the community through his philanthropic work. Read more about the causes he has championed in the news release.

Business Litigation Lawyers Successfully Represent Clients Through DVRO Program

Business litigation lawyers Amanda E. Gordon and Kelly A. Frye were recently successful in representing a mother and her baby in a hearing to obtain a restraining order for both individuals. The representation was part of Robinson+Cole's Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) Program. In recognition of the growing needs of unrepresented parties in the State of Connecticut's family court system, the goal of the DVRO Program is to assist unrepresented applicants seeking restraining orders against family or household violence. The program provides unrepresented parties not only the benefit of attorney advice but also assistance in navigating the court system.

Ed Heath Challenges Connecticut Lawyers to Advocate for Victims of Domestic Violence

In the wake of the recent tragedy in Middletown, Connecticut, involving the murder of a baby by his father, business litigation partner Edward J. Heath co-authored with Jamey Bell, executive director of Greater Hartford Legal Aid (GHLA), the article "A Call to Action: Connecticut Lawyers Partner with Legal Aid and Area Shelters to Help Victims of Domestic Violence." Appearing in the June 2015 issue of the Connecticut Bar Association's Connecticut Lawyer, the article discusses the importance of legal advocacy in helping victims of domestic abuse obtain court-issued protection and how legal resources fall far below the need. Featured in the article is a family court pro bono project in which Robinson+Cole has been involved since 2012, where our lawyers have pursued restraining orders on behalf of victims of domestic abuse. Connecticut Legal Services, the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, GHLA, and two domestic shelters have provided training and support. In the end, the free representation enables victims to gain protection and empowerment and gives the lawyers who help them invaluable experience along with great personal and professional satisfaction. Click here to view the article.

Mr. Heath chairs Robinson+Cole's Government Investigations Practice Team. For seven years, he led the firm's Pro Bono Committee and presently serves as a board member and secretary of Greater Hartford Legal Aid.