Focus Area
Law Firm Defense
Since its inception, our Law Firm Defense Group has developed a national reputation for defending large law firms and select boutiques in high stakes legal malpractice cases, disciplinary proceedings, and internal disputes, achieving excellent results at trial and otherwise, and earning the respect and esteem of our client firms, their insurers, and our peers.
With attorneys based in Boston, New York City and Washington, D.C., we regularly represent Am Law 100 and 200 law firms in cases throughout the United States. We defend clients against a broad spectrum of liability—sometimes exceeding $1 billion in exposure—in cases stemming from failed business transactions, adverse litigation outcomes, bankruptcies, pyramid and Ponzi schemes, and partner or practice group departures. These matters often involve allegations of aiding and abetting, breaches of fiduciary duty, ethical violations, and statutory claims. Our lawyers include Fellows in the American College of Trial Lawyers, have served on the ethics and disciplinary committees of various bar associations, and have been ranked in Chambers, Lawdragon and Best Lawyers in America. We are proud to be described by Chambers as “a strong group with extensive trial skills” and a “deep bench” that is “dedicated to client service.”
We have tried numerous cases to verdict—both in court and in arbitration, and stand apart based on our deep understanding of the law governing lawyers and the many ways—economically, reputationally and emotionally—that claims affect our client firms and the lawyers involved. We also know how our adversaries think, and how to balance forceful advocacy with the judgment to resolve complex claims efficiently. We bring a uniquely collaborative approach to litigation—both internally and with our clients and their insurers. We maintain a long-standing relationship with Attorneys Liability Assurance Society, Inc. (ALAS) and other leading professional liability insurers for large and midsize firms in the United States.
Expertise
Key Contacts
Nicholas Cutaia
Director, New York
ncutaia@goulstonstorrs.com+1 212 878 5065Richard M. Zielinski
Director, Boston
rzielinski@goulstonstorrs.com+1 617 574 4029