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May 1, 2025 - R+C Newsletter

Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Insider

Authored by Linn F. Freedman and Roma Patel
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CYBERSECURITY

SAP NetWeaver Visual Composer Requires Urgent Patch

SAP Netweaver Visual Composer users are urged to patch a critical vulnerability that attackers are actively exploiting. According to ReliaQuest, which detected the vulnerability, the attacks allow full system compromise through unauthenticated file uploads. Read more

HIPAA

PIH Health Settles HIPAA Violations for $600,000

PIH Health, a health care entity located in California, suffered a data breach in June 2019 when 45 employee email accounts were compromised in a targeted phishing campaign. The accounts contained the protected health information (PHI) of 189,763 individuals, including their names, social security numbers, driver’s license numbers, diagnoses, lab tests, medications, treatment, claims, and financial information. Read more

ENFORCEMENT + LITIGATION

The VPPA: An Old Law with New Streams

Enacted in 1988, the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) was intended to regulate the then-booming videotape industry by limiting how video rental and sales data is disclosed. The law was enacted in direct response to the publication of a Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork’s video rental history. Though videotapes may be a memory of the past, plaintiffs have revived the VPPA in a more current context: online video subscriptions and pixel tracking tools. Read more

ARTIFICAL INTELLIGENCE

Workado Settles With FTC Over Alleged Misrepresentations of AI Accuracy

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a press release this week announcing that it settled with Workado over alleged misrepresentations of its ability to detect whether content was generated by artificial intelligence (AI) or humans. Read more

Privacy Tip #442

Oregonians Push Back Against DOGE’s Access to Personal Information

On April 21, 2025, the Oregon Department of Justice’s Privacy Unit reported a “big spike” in complaints about the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the first quarter of 2025.

If you are concerned about unrestricted access to your personal information by federal government and/or DOGE representatives, consider contacting your state consumer protection division so your voice is heard. Read more

Firm Highlights

Experience
Sale of Building Supply Company Assets and Real Estate to Strategic Buyer

Represented a building supply company in the sale of its assets and real estate to a strategic buyer.

News
Robinson+Cole Expands Managed Care + ERISA Litigation Team with Key Additions

Robinson+Cole announced that E. Sean Medina has joined the firm as a partner in its Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. Medina’s arrival marks another step in the group’s ongoing expansion, enhancing its ability to serve clients facing increasingly complex managed care, Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), payor-provider, and other business-critical disputes. An experienced managed care and commercial litigator, Medina has represented managed care organizations, health insurers, and other industry clients for nearly 20 years in complex, high-stakes litigation and arbitration matters, including payor-provider disputes, ERISA litigation, class actions, state statutory claims, commercial disputes, and disputes involving Medicaid contract bids. He brings extensive experience guiding clients through all phases of litigation, from pre-suite strategy through trial and appeal. “We’re welcoming Sean to Robinson+Cole at a time of significant growth for our practice,” said Matthew P. Mazzola, co-chair of the firm’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. “As demand for sophisticated counsel in the managed care and ERISA space continues to grow, Sean’s proven litigation experience, industry insight, and strategic approach will further strengthen our ability to help clients navigate their most challenging matters. His first-chair trial experience and deep understanding of the managed care industry make him a valuable addition to our team.” “Robinson+Cole has built an impressive Managed Care + ERISA Litigation practice and a reputation for delivering exceptional client service,” said Medina. “The firm’s collaborative culture and practical approach to helping clients navigate complex business and regulatory challenges made this opportunity especially compelling. I look forward to contributing to the group's continued success and helping our clients achieve their business objectives.” Medina's addition is complemented by the arrival of Mary Kate McDevitt, who also joins the firm’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. An associate in the Philadelphia office, McDevitt’s practice concentrates on defending managed care organizations, life and disability insurers, plan administrators, employers, and fiduciaries in disputes arising under ERISA and other state and federal laws. She also brings experience across a broad range of litigation matters, including False Claims Act and qui tam actions, government enforcement, compliance, white-collar litigation, and cybersecurity and privacy disputes. Robinson+Cole’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group has experienced significant growth over the past year, reflecting the firm’s broader strategic investment in attracting top talent and strengthening key practices to meet clients’ evolving needs. Now 20 lawyers strong, the group brings together accomplished litigators who collaborate seamlessly across disciplines, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, innovative solutions, and results that consistently meet and exceed client expectations.

News
Kate Dion Examines Legal Questions Surrounding NCAA Eligibility Changes

Education industry team chair and Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team member Kathleen E. Dion shared insights on the rapidly evolving legal framework governing college athletics in the article, "A series of court rulings turned college football upside down. What's next?" published by USA Today on August 26, 2026. The article examines the legal and practical implications of recent court decisions and NCAA policy changes that have created uncertainty around athlete eligibility, including the possibility of former college football players returning from NFL training camps to compete in college athletics. Addressing the growing tension between NCAA oversight and conference-level governance, Kate noted that recent court rulings may not necessarily invalidate rules adopted independently by athletic conferences. "While state-court injunctions against NCAA-wide eligibility restrictions certainly create legal uncertainty, conferences may believe those decisions do not automatically invalidate their own independently adopted rules," she said. "Whether that distinction ultimately holds up will depend on the particular conference, the rule being challenged, and the legal theory at issue." The article explores how ongoing litigation, regulatory changes, and conference responses are reshaping the landscape of college athletics and raising new legal questions about eligibility, governance, and athlete participation. Read the article.

Experience
Sale of Minority Interest in Liquor Business and Repurchase of Legacy Brand

Represented a spirit’s company and group of investors in a complex sale of their minority stake in a liquor business and repurchase of a legacy brand.

News
Robinson+Cole Unites Multidisciplinary Sports Capabilities Under New Industry Team

Today, Robinson+Cole announced the formalization of its Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team, bringing together attorneys and professionals from the firm’s Immigration, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Education, Real Estate, Construction Law, Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Artificial Intelligence practices. The team draws on the firm’s extensive experience in these areas to provide coordinated counsel to sports leagues and teams, institutions, talent—athletes and coaches, investors, and sports-related businesses as they navigate issues involving name, image, and likeness (NIL), Title IX compliance, global mobility and sports tourism, media rights, private investment, emerging technologies, venue development, and the continued growth of women’s sports. "The sports industry represents an estimated $2.3 trillion global economy, and its continued growth is creating both opportunities and complexity across professional and collegiate athletics," said Robert C. Seiger, Chair of the new team. "As the sports industry continues to evolve, clients are increasingly seeking counsel that spans multiple disciplines and aligns with their broader strategic objectives. The formalization of this team reflects that demand and our commitment to serving clients across the sports ecosystem through an integrated approach." The team's focus will center on three strategic areas: Sports Immigration and Talent Mobility: Visa strategy, athlete and coach immigration, executive movement, global talent support, compliance, and mobility planning. Sports Venues, Infrastructure, and Development: Stadium and arena projects, training facilities, leasing and real estate transactions, construction and infrastructure matters, public and private financing, naming rights, sponsorship arrangements, and land use considerations. Collegiate Athletics and Institutional Risk Management: NIL matters, Title IX compliance, eligibility issues, employment matters, governance, investigations, litigation, licensing, and institutional risk management. Robinson+Cole's work spans athlete and executive mobility, intellectual property protection, commercial transactions, venue development, employment matters, investigations, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Representative matters include providing immigration and mobility services for NHL, NFL, MLS, and NWSL organizations, obtaining an industry-first O-1 visa for an IndyCar race team, representing professional race drivers and teams, managing trademark matters for high-profile sports figures, advising a WNBA organization on the design and construction of a new training facility, and handling real estate and leasing matters involving major sports properties. "This team reflects Robinson+Cole’s significant strength and capability across multiple disciplines to address the full range of issues facing sports organizations," said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. "Many of the challenges in today’s sports industry do not fit neatly within a single practice area. By formalizing this effort, we are creating a more coordinated experience for clients while positioning the firm to continue growing alongside this dynamic industry." Beyond its client work, Robinson+Cole is actively engaged in advancing the sports industry through leadership, scholarship, and engagement. Team members regularly contribute to national conversations on emerging sports law developments and are frequently sought by media outlets for commentary on issues affecting professional and collegiate athletics, most recently USA Today and the Sports Business Journal. They also participate in leading industry organizations, such as the Sports Lawyers Association, where Seiger currently serves as Chair of the Immigration Committee. The firm is recognized for its role at the intersection of sports and global talent mobility.

News
Robinson+Cole Honors 13 Lawyers and Business Professionals for Mentorship, Service, Inclusion, Wellbeing, and Innovation in 2026 Annual Awards
News
Robinson+Cole Advances in National 2026 Pro Bono Rankings

Robinson+Cole continues to gain national recognition for its commitment to pro bono service, earning improved placements in both The American Lawyer's 2026 Pro Bono Scorecard and Law360 Pulse's 2026 Pro Bono Rankings. The firm was ranked #91 in The American Lawyer's 2026 Pro Bono Scorecard, moving up two spots from the previous year. R+C also climbed nine positions in Law360 Pulse's 2026 Pro Bono Rankings for firms with 250-600 attorneys, rising to #16 in its category. Now in his third year as chair of Robinson+Cole's Pro Bono Committee, Seth Orkand credits the firm's continued progress to the strong culture of service embraced across the organization. "The momentum behind our pro bono program continues to grow alongside our firm," said Seth. "It's rewarding to see so many lawyers and professional staff embrace opportunities to make a meaningful difference. We're proud of what we've accomplished and remain focused on expanding our impact in the communities we serve." In The American Lawyer's 2026 Pro Bono Scorecard, which ranks Am Law 200 firms based on work performed by U.S.-based lawyers, R+C achieved strong results across both key metrics: average pro bono hours per lawyer and the percentage of lawyers contributing 20 or more pro bono hours during 2025. The firm posted scores of 24.9% and 29.5%, respectively, outperforming many firms with significantly larger attorney headcounts. Calculations are based on lawyer counts as of December 31, 2025. Learn more and view the scorecard. The firm's strong showing was also reflected in Law360 Pulse's 2026 Pro Bono Rankings. R+C's rise to #16 among firms with 250-600 attorneys underscores the continued growth of its pro bono program and the dedication of its attorneys to serving individuals and organizations in need. The rankings are based on average pro bono hours per lawyer and the percentage of attorneys contributing at least 20 hours of pro bono service.

Experience
Sale of Security Services Company to Private Equity Portfolio Company

Represented a security services company in its sale to a private equity portfolio company.

Experience
Hospice Provider Reorganization and Sale to Private Equity Portfolio Company

Represented a hospice and palliative care provider in its internal reorganization and sale to a private equity portfolio company.

Experience
Sale of Third-Party Logistics Business to Strategic Acquirer

Represented a 3PL business in its sale to a strategic acquirer.

Experience
Sale of Building Supply Company Assets and Real Estate to Strategic Buyer

Represented a building supply company in the sale of its assets and real estate to a strategic buyer.

News
Robinson+Cole Expands Managed Care + ERISA Litigation Team with Key Additions

Robinson+Cole announced that E. Sean Medina has joined the firm as a partner in its Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. Medina’s arrival marks another step in the group’s ongoing expansion, enhancing its ability to serve clients facing increasingly complex managed care, Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), payor-provider, and other business-critical disputes. An experienced managed care and commercial litigator, Medina has represented managed care organizations, health insurers, and other industry clients for nearly 20 years in complex, high-stakes litigation and arbitration matters, including payor-provider disputes, ERISA litigation, class actions, state statutory claims, commercial disputes, and disputes involving Medicaid contract bids. He brings extensive experience guiding clients through all phases of litigation, from pre-suite strategy through trial and appeal. “We’re welcoming Sean to Robinson+Cole at a time of significant growth for our practice,” said Matthew P. Mazzola, co-chair of the firm’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. “As demand for sophisticated counsel in the managed care and ERISA space continues to grow, Sean’s proven litigation experience, industry insight, and strategic approach will further strengthen our ability to help clients navigate their most challenging matters. His first-chair trial experience and deep understanding of the managed care industry make him a valuable addition to our team.” “Robinson+Cole has built an impressive Managed Care + ERISA Litigation practice and a reputation for delivering exceptional client service,” said Medina. “The firm’s collaborative culture and practical approach to helping clients navigate complex business and regulatory challenges made this opportunity especially compelling. I look forward to contributing to the group's continued success and helping our clients achieve their business objectives.” Medina's addition is complemented by the arrival of Mary Kate McDevitt, who also joins the firm’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. An associate in the Philadelphia office, McDevitt’s practice concentrates on defending managed care organizations, life and disability insurers, plan administrators, employers, and fiduciaries in disputes arising under ERISA and other state and federal laws. She also brings experience across a broad range of litigation matters, including False Claims Act and qui tam actions, government enforcement, compliance, white-collar litigation, and cybersecurity and privacy disputes. Robinson+Cole’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group has experienced significant growth over the past year, reflecting the firm’s broader strategic investment in attracting top talent and strengthening key practices to meet clients’ evolving needs. Now 20 lawyers strong, the group brings together accomplished litigators who collaborate seamlessly across disciplines, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, innovative solutions, and results that consistently meet and exceed client expectations.

News
Kate Dion Examines Legal Questions Surrounding NCAA Eligibility Changes

Education industry team chair and Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team member Kathleen E. Dion shared insights on the rapidly evolving legal framework governing college athletics in the article, "A series of court rulings turned college football upside down. What's next?" published by USA Today on August 26, 2026. The article examines the legal and practical implications of recent court decisions and NCAA policy changes that have created uncertainty around athlete eligibility, including the possibility of former college football players returning from NFL training camps to compete in college athletics. Addressing the growing tension between NCAA oversight and conference-level governance, Kate noted that recent court rulings may not necessarily invalidate rules adopted independently by athletic conferences. "While state-court injunctions against NCAA-wide eligibility restrictions certainly create legal uncertainty, conferences may believe those decisions do not automatically invalidate their own independently adopted rules," she said. "Whether that distinction ultimately holds up will depend on the particular conference, the rule being challenged, and the legal theory at issue." The article explores how ongoing litigation, regulatory changes, and conference responses are reshaping the landscape of college athletics and raising new legal questions about eligibility, governance, and athlete participation. Read the article.

Experience
Sale of Minority Interest in Liquor Business and Repurchase of Legacy Brand

Represented a spirit’s company and group of investors in a complex sale of their minority stake in a liquor business and repurchase of a legacy brand.

News
Robinson+Cole Unites Multidisciplinary Sports Capabilities Under New Industry Team

Today, Robinson+Cole announced the formalization of its Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team, bringing together attorneys and professionals from the firm’s Immigration, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Education, Real Estate, Construction Law, Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Artificial Intelligence practices. The team draws on the firm’s extensive experience in these areas to provide coordinated counsel to sports leagues and teams, institutions, talent—athletes and coaches, investors, and sports-related businesses as they navigate issues involving name, image, and likeness (NIL), Title IX compliance, global mobility and sports tourism, media rights, private investment, emerging technologies, venue development, and the continued growth of women’s sports. "The sports industry represents an estimated $2.3 trillion global economy, and its continued growth is creating both opportunities and complexity across professional and collegiate athletics," said Robert C. Seiger, Chair of the new team. "As the sports industry continues to evolve, clients are increasingly seeking counsel that spans multiple disciplines and aligns with their broader strategic objectives. The formalization of this team reflects that demand and our commitment to serving clients across the sports ecosystem through an integrated approach." The team's focus will center on three strategic areas: Sports Immigration and Talent Mobility: Visa strategy, athlete and coach immigration, executive movement, global talent support, compliance, and mobility planning. Sports Venues, Infrastructure, and Development: Stadium and arena projects, training facilities, leasing and real estate transactions, construction and infrastructure matters, public and private financing, naming rights, sponsorship arrangements, and land use considerations. Collegiate Athletics and Institutional Risk Management: NIL matters, Title IX compliance, eligibility issues, employment matters, governance, investigations, litigation, licensing, and institutional risk management. Robinson+Cole's work spans athlete and executive mobility, intellectual property protection, commercial transactions, venue development, employment matters, investigations, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Representative matters include providing immigration and mobility services for NHL, NFL, MLS, and NWSL organizations, obtaining an industry-first O-1 visa for an IndyCar race team, representing professional race drivers and teams, managing trademark matters for high-profile sports figures, advising a WNBA organization on the design and construction of a new training facility, and handling real estate and leasing matters involving major sports properties. "This team reflects Robinson+Cole’s significant strength and capability across multiple disciplines to address the full range of issues facing sports organizations," said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. "Many of the challenges in today’s sports industry do not fit neatly within a single practice area. By formalizing this effort, we are creating a more coordinated experience for clients while positioning the firm to continue growing alongside this dynamic industry." Beyond its client work, Robinson+Cole is actively engaged in advancing the sports industry through leadership, scholarship, and engagement. Team members regularly contribute to national conversations on emerging sports law developments and are frequently sought by media outlets for commentary on issues affecting professional and collegiate athletics, most recently USA Today and the Sports Business Journal. They also participate in leading industry organizations, such as the Sports Lawyers Association, where Seiger currently serves as Chair of the Immigration Committee. The firm is recognized for its role at the intersection of sports and global talent mobility.

News
Robinson+Cole Honors 13 Lawyers and Business Professionals for Mentorship, Service, Inclusion, Wellbeing, and Innovation in 2026 Annual Awards
News
Robinson+Cole Advances in National 2026 Pro Bono Rankings

Robinson+Cole continues to gain national recognition for its commitment to pro bono service, earning improved placements in both The American Lawyer's 2026 Pro Bono Scorecard and Law360 Pulse's 2026 Pro Bono Rankings. The firm was ranked #91 in The American Lawyer's 2026 Pro Bono Scorecard, moving up two spots from the previous year. R+C also climbed nine positions in Law360 Pulse's 2026 Pro Bono Rankings for firms with 250-600 attorneys, rising to #16 in its category. Now in his third year as chair of Robinson+Cole's Pro Bono Committee, Seth Orkand credits the firm's continued progress to the strong culture of service embraced across the organization. "The momentum behind our pro bono program continues to grow alongside our firm," said Seth. "It's rewarding to see so many lawyers and professional staff embrace opportunities to make a meaningful difference. We're proud of what we've accomplished and remain focused on expanding our impact in the communities we serve." In The American Lawyer's 2026 Pro Bono Scorecard, which ranks Am Law 200 firms based on work performed by U.S.-based lawyers, R+C achieved strong results across both key metrics: average pro bono hours per lawyer and the percentage of lawyers contributing 20 or more pro bono hours during 2025. The firm posted scores of 24.9% and 29.5%, respectively, outperforming many firms with significantly larger attorney headcounts. Calculations are based on lawyer counts as of December 31, 2025. Learn more and view the scorecard. The firm's strong showing was also reflected in Law360 Pulse's 2026 Pro Bono Rankings. R+C's rise to #16 among firms with 250-600 attorneys underscores the continued growth of its pro bono program and the dedication of its attorneys to serving individuals and organizations in need. The rankings are based on average pro bono hours per lawyer and the percentage of attorneys contributing at least 20 hours of pro bono service.

Experience
Sale of Security Services Company to Private Equity Portfolio Company

Represented a security services company in its sale to a private equity portfolio company.

Experience
Hospice Provider Reorganization and Sale to Private Equity Portfolio Company

Represented a hospice and palliative care provider in its internal reorganization and sale to a private equity portfolio company.

Experience
Sale of Third-Party Logistics Business to Strategic Acquirer

Represented a 3PL business in its sale to a strategic acquirer.

Experience
Sale of Building Supply Company Assets and Real Estate to Strategic Buyer

Represented a building supply company in the sale of its assets and real estate to a strategic buyer.

News
Robinson+Cole Expands Managed Care + ERISA Litigation Team with Key Additions

Robinson+Cole announced that E. Sean Medina has joined the firm as a partner in its Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. Medina’s arrival marks another step in the group’s ongoing expansion, enhancing its ability to serve clients facing increasingly complex managed care, Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), payor-provider, and other business-critical disputes. An experienced managed care and commercial litigator, Medina has represented managed care organizations, health insurers, and other industry clients for nearly 20 years in complex, high-stakes litigation and arbitration matters, including payor-provider disputes, ERISA litigation, class actions, state statutory claims, commercial disputes, and disputes involving Medicaid contract bids. He brings extensive experience guiding clients through all phases of litigation, from pre-suite strategy through trial and appeal. “We’re welcoming Sean to Robinson+Cole at a time of significant growth for our practice,” said Matthew P. Mazzola, co-chair of the firm’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. “As demand for sophisticated counsel in the managed care and ERISA space continues to grow, Sean’s proven litigation experience, industry insight, and strategic approach will further strengthen our ability to help clients navigate their most challenging matters. His first-chair trial experience and deep understanding of the managed care industry make him a valuable addition to our team.” “Robinson+Cole has built an impressive Managed Care + ERISA Litigation practice and a reputation for delivering exceptional client service,” said Medina. “The firm’s collaborative culture and practical approach to helping clients navigate complex business and regulatory challenges made this opportunity especially compelling. I look forward to contributing to the group's continued success and helping our clients achieve their business objectives.” Medina's addition is complemented by the arrival of Mary Kate McDevitt, who also joins the firm’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group. An associate in the Philadelphia office, McDevitt’s practice concentrates on defending managed care organizations, life and disability insurers, plan administrators, employers, and fiduciaries in disputes arising under ERISA and other state and federal laws. She also brings experience across a broad range of litigation matters, including False Claims Act and qui tam actions, government enforcement, compliance, white-collar litigation, and cybersecurity and privacy disputes. Robinson+Cole’s Managed Care + ERISA Litigation group has experienced significant growth over the past year, reflecting the firm’s broader strategic investment in attracting top talent and strengthening key practices to meet clients’ evolving needs. Now 20 lawyers strong, the group brings together accomplished litigators who collaborate seamlessly across disciplines, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, innovative solutions, and results that consistently meet and exceed client expectations.

News
Kate Dion Examines Legal Questions Surrounding NCAA Eligibility Changes

Education industry team chair and Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team member Kathleen E. Dion shared insights on the rapidly evolving legal framework governing college athletics in the article, "A series of court rulings turned college football upside down. What's next?" published by USA Today on August 26, 2026. The article examines the legal and practical implications of recent court decisions and NCAA policy changes that have created uncertainty around athlete eligibility, including the possibility of former college football players returning from NFL training camps to compete in college athletics. Addressing the growing tension between NCAA oversight and conference-level governance, Kate noted that recent court rulings may not necessarily invalidate rules adopted independently by athletic conferences. "While state-court injunctions against NCAA-wide eligibility restrictions certainly create legal uncertainty, conferences may believe those decisions do not automatically invalidate their own independently adopted rules," she said. "Whether that distinction ultimately holds up will depend on the particular conference, the rule being challenged, and the legal theory at issue." The article explores how ongoing litigation, regulatory changes, and conference responses are reshaping the landscape of college athletics and raising new legal questions about eligibility, governance, and athlete participation. Read the article.

Experience
Sale of Minority Interest in Liquor Business and Repurchase of Legacy Brand

Represented a spirit’s company and group of investors in a complex sale of their minority stake in a liquor business and repurchase of a legacy brand.

News
Robinson+Cole Unites Multidisciplinary Sports Capabilities Under New Industry Team

Today, Robinson+Cole announced the formalization of its Professional + Collegiate Sports industry team, bringing together attorneys and professionals from the firm’s Immigration, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Education, Real Estate, Construction Law, Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, and Artificial Intelligence practices. The team draws on the firm’s extensive experience in these areas to provide coordinated counsel to sports leagues and teams, institutions, talent—athletes and coaches, investors, and sports-related businesses as they navigate issues involving name, image, and likeness (NIL), Title IX compliance, global mobility and sports tourism, media rights, private investment, emerging technologies, venue development, and the continued growth of women’s sports. "The sports industry represents an estimated $2.3 trillion global economy, and its continued growth is creating both opportunities and complexity across professional and collegiate athletics," said Robert C. Seiger, Chair of the new team. "As the sports industry continues to evolve, clients are increasingly seeking counsel that spans multiple disciplines and aligns with their broader strategic objectives. The formalization of this team reflects that demand and our commitment to serving clients across the sports ecosystem through an integrated approach." The team's focus will center on three strategic areas: Sports Immigration and Talent Mobility: Visa strategy, athlete and coach immigration, executive movement, global talent support, compliance, and mobility planning. Sports Venues, Infrastructure, and Development: Stadium and arena projects, training facilities, leasing and real estate transactions, construction and infrastructure matters, public and private financing, naming rights, sponsorship arrangements, and land use considerations. Collegiate Athletics and Institutional Risk Management: NIL matters, Title IX compliance, eligibility issues, employment matters, governance, investigations, litigation, licensing, and institutional risk management. Robinson+Cole's work spans athlete and executive mobility, intellectual property protection, commercial transactions, venue development, employment matters, investigations, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Representative matters include providing immigration and mobility services for NHL, NFL, MLS, and NWSL organizations, obtaining an industry-first O-1 visa for an IndyCar race team, representing professional race drivers and teams, managing trademark matters for high-profile sports figures, advising a WNBA organization on the design and construction of a new training facility, and handling real estate and leasing matters involving major sports properties. "This team reflects Robinson+Cole’s significant strength and capability across multiple disciplines to address the full range of issues facing sports organizations," said J. Michael Wirvin, the firm’s Managing Partner. "Many of the challenges in today’s sports industry do not fit neatly within a single practice area. By formalizing this effort, we are creating a more coordinated experience for clients while positioning the firm to continue growing alongside this dynamic industry." Beyond its client work, Robinson+Cole is actively engaged in advancing the sports industry through leadership, scholarship, and engagement. Team members regularly contribute to national conversations on emerging sports law developments and are frequently sought by media outlets for commentary on issues affecting professional and collegiate athletics, most recently USA Today and the Sports Business Journal. They also participate in leading industry organizations, such as the Sports Lawyers Association, where Seiger currently serves as Chair of the Immigration Committee. The firm is recognized for its role at the intersection of sports and global talent mobility.

News
Robinson+Cole Honors 13 Lawyers and Business Professionals for Mentorship, Service, Inclusion, Wellbeing, and Innovation in 2026 Annual Awards