Burlington:	Alison J. Bell, Thomas Z. Carlson, David W. M. Conard, Christopher L. Davis, Erin Miller Heins, Hobart F. Popick, Lisa B. Shelkrot, & Mark L. Sperry
Middlebury:	F. Rendol Barlow, Ellen Mercer Fallon, Frank H. “Fritz” Langrock, Devin McLaughlin, William B. Miller, Jr., Wanda I. Otero-Ziegler, & James W. Swift

We believe that good lawyering can help avoid business disputes. When necessary, however, our experienced trial lawyers can represent clients — whether a small, family-owned business or farm, or a multi-national corporation — in all types of litigation. Our team approach, supported by a highly qualified staff, allows us to handle the simplest to the most complex case in an efficient and cost-effective manner. We employ a common-sense and creative approach to problem-solving, using negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation as appropriate. Most of our trial lawyers also have transactional experience, and we pride ourselves on understanding our client’s business.

Our business litigation practice includes the following areas of concentration:

Contract Disputes

We can assist with disputes relating to all types of contracts and agreements, whether oral or written.

Entity Disputes

We can represent individuals and businesses in disputes among partners and shareholders, or in claims against officers and directors.

Real Estate and Environmental Matters

We can assist in all manner of real estate and environmental litigation, including permit proceedings, boundary disputes, pollution coverage issues, and title matters. More ...

Employment Claims

We can defend employers against any wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, family and medical leave, overtime, or other employee claim. More ...

Intellectual Property Issues

We can help with all types of intellectual property disputes, including trademark and copyright infringement.

Construction Claims

We are experienced in the issues that arise out of the construction and development of projects, both large and small.

Business Torts

We are experienced in the range of claims that can be made, including intentional interference with contract, breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and unfair competition.

Banking and Securities Issues

We can assist with banking and securities issues, both in the regulatory and litigation contexts.

Insurance Coverage

We are experienced in matters relating to insurance contracts and coverage disputes.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

When appropriate, we encourage clients to consider alternatives to litigation, such as mediation or arbitration, and we regularly represent clients in these type of proceedings. In addition, several members of the firm regularly serve as mediators, evaluators, or arbitrators to assist others in resolving their disputes. More ...

National and International

Our membership in Meritas, a global network of independent law firms, allows us to provide our clients, quickly and efficiently, with experienced advice and representation, if necessary, throughout the country and around the world. More ...

Appeals

We have handled hundreds of appeals before administrative agencies, the Vermont Supreme Court, and the federal appellate courts, including the United States Supreme Court. More ...