Robinson+Cole Managing Partner Rhonda Tobin, Pro Bono Committee chair Seth Orkand, Business Litigation group lawyer Scott Garosshen and the Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications group all won recognitions at Law.com’s New England Legal Awards on October 23, 2025 in Boston, MA. The awards stand as a distinguished celebration of professional excellence within the legal community across Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The event serves as a testament to the outstanding contributions and achievements made by legal professionals within the region.

Rhonda was named “Regional Managing Partner of the Year” for her visionary leadership and transformative impact at Robinson+Cole. As Managing Partner, Rhonda has guided the firm through strategic growth, expanded its geographic and practice diversity, and championed a culture rooted in collaboration, civility, and inclusion. Her “law firm for the future” vision came to life with the design and launch of the firm’s recently relocated Hartford office—an innovative, people-first space that reflects the firm’s commitment to excellence and community engagement. A respected trial lawyer and longtime leader, Rhonda’s influence extends beyond the firm through numerous professional and community leadership roles, including service as Chairperson of Connecticut’s Judicial Review Council, on the Hartford Stage Board of Directors and on the Junior Achievement of Southwest New England Hall of Fame Committee. Her empathetic, transparent approach and dedication to supporting colleagues have earned Robinson+Cole top rankings as a best place to work and an inclusive workplace, making Rhonda a standout honoree in this category. Read Rhonda’s honoree profile.

Seth was presented with the Social Impact award for his unwavering commitment to justice, advocacy, and community service. As chair of the firm’s Pro Bono Committee, Seth has expanded the firm’s pro bono footprint and forged meaningful partnerships that serve underrepresented communities. His dedication extends beyond the firm through his service on the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s Standing Committee on Pro Bono Legal Services and his representation of survivors of sexual assault and individuals in civil rights and freedom of expression cases. A former federal prosecutor and accomplished trial lawyer, Seth’s leadership, mentorship, and advocacy have made a profound impact on the legal profession and the lives of those he serves, exemplifying the values celebrated by the Social Impact award. Read Seth’s honoree profile.

Scott was recognized as a “Rising Star” for their outstanding appellate advocacy and commitment to advancing diversity in the legal profession. With experience spanning more than a hundred appeals across federal and state courts—including nine arguments before the Connecticut Supreme Court—Scott brings strategic insight and persuasive storytelling to complex litigation. Their leadership within the Connecticut Bar Association and service on the Connecticut Supreme Court Historical Society Board reflect a deep investment in shaping the future of appellate practice. Scott’s advocacy extends beyond the courtroom through mentorship, civic education, and efforts to improve representation in the appellate bar. Recognized for their DEI+B contributions and community impact, Scott exemplifies the next generation of legal excellence. Read Scott’s honoree profile.

Robinson+Cole’s Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications group was recognized as Environmental Litigation Department of the Year for its exceptional depth, technical expertise, and litigation success across a broad spectrum of environmental law. As one of the largest environmental practices on the East Coast, the group represents clients in industries ranging from aerospace and pharmaceuticals to energy and telecommunications. Under the leadership of James P. Ray, the team has handled high-stakes cases involving chemical exposure, groundwater contamination, and catastrophic incidents, and has played key roles in major Superfund sites nationwide. With a multidisciplinary team that includes lawyers with scientific and engineering backgrounds, the group delivers strategic, cost-effective results and fosters strong client partnerships through innovative fee arrangements, collaborative training, and thought leadership via its Environmental Law + blog. Their work exemplifies excellence in environmental litigation and advocacy.