Major Hartford-founded law firm Robinson+Cole has elected its first managing partner based outside of Connecticut.
Boston-based business transactions partner J. Michael Wirvin took over management of the firm March 1, replacing Rhonda J. Tobin, the firm’s first female managing partner, who had led Robinson+Cole since 2021.
The firm says that the choice reflects a continued evolution and expanding geographic footprint. Although the firm was founded in Hartford, a spokesperson said no one office is now considered its headquarters.
Wirvin has served as partner-in-charge of Robinson+Cole’s Boston office and on the firm’s managing committee since 2014, where he has played a role in governance, strategic planning and leadership succession.
In his professional role he advises clients on complex domestic and cross‑border mergers and acquisitions, financings and corporate structuring matters.
Wirvin also co‑chairs the firm’s international team, and focuses on assisting U.S. and offshore companies to navigate the legal and cultural complexities of operating across jurisdictions.
Wirvin said his priorities as managing partner will be to strengthen the firm’s national and international profile in “an increasingly complex and competitive environment.”
Under Tobin’s five-year tenure, Robinson+Cole expanded its presence in New York, Boston and Philadelphia; and opened offices in Washington, D.C., and Austin, Texas.
It also relocated its downtown Hartford office in 2024, and has taken on technological changes, partnering with agentic AI builder Newcode.ai
