Nicholas T. Kocian

Grant M. Ehrlich is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Patent Law. Grant M., who practices law in West Hartford, Connecticut, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Grant M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

James F. Shea is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Management and Litigation - Labor and Employment. James F., who practices law in Hartford, Connecticut, has been recognized since 2017. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which James F. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Johanna Zelman’s unique background in health and mental care and in school law results in highly competent, in-depth and knowledgeable advice and representation for her clients. While she has represented a wide variety of private and public sector employers from various industries, Johanna has a specific strength and hands-on experience in the health and mental health fields. Prior to her legal career, she worked for Harvard University’s affiliate hospitals, where she had direct c...

John P. Shea Jr. is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Management, Labor Law - Management and Litigation - Labor and Employment. John P., who practices law in Hartford, Connecticut, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which John P. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Joshua A. Hawks-Ladds is chair of the firm’s Labor, Employment Law and Employee Benefits Department. His practice includes counseling on and litigating business, construction, labor and employment and civil rights matters and municipal law. Attorney Hawks-Ladds has tried cases in numerous state and federal courts, argued before the Second Circuit Court of Appeals and the Connecticut Supreme and Appellate courts and litigates extensively before administrative tribunals. Attorney Hawks-La...

Larry Shipman has dedicated his career to providing thoughtful and thorough legal representation to his clients. He is a practicing attorney at Shipman, Shaiken & Schwefel, LLC, where he passionately handles cases involving real estate, land use matters and commercial transactions. Larry is committed to helping his clients navigate complex legal matters with clarity and resolve. Drawing from his extensive experience, Larry approaches each case with an individualized strategy that reflects...

Cathryn A. Reynolds is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law. Cathryn A., who practices law in Hartford, Connecticut, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Cathryn A. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Sarah R. Skubas is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Management, Labor Law - Management and Litigation - Labor and Employment. Sarah R., who practices law in Hartford, Connecticut, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Sarah R. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Ms. Dixon defends employers in federal and state courts and before administrative agencies against a variety of employment law claims, including workplace discrimination, contract, and tort claims. She also counsels employers on a wide range of employment issues, such as employee discipline, family and medical leave matters, and compliance with various state and federal employment laws and regulations. Ms. Dixon regularly presents seminars on employment-related issues, including sexual harass...

David M. S. Shaiken focuses his practice on commercial litigation in state and federal courts, probate and inheritance disputes, and bankruptcy litigation. For over 36 years, David has provided lean, highly strategic advocacy for businesses, fiduciaries, professionals, and heirs facing critical financial and legal turning points. By deliberately avoiding the administrative bloat and multi-lawyer overhead of massive firms, he ensures his clients receive direct, partner-level representation tai...