Law Firm News - Boston Bar Association

Managing Partner Spotlight: Meet Choate’s Co-Managing Partner, Rob Kole

This year, Rob Kole assumed the role of Co-Managing Partner at Choate Hall & Stewart, where he has practiced for almost 30 years as a litigator handling high-stakes trial and appellate matters. Stepping into leadership as the firm celebrates its 125th anniversary, Kole now guides a Boston-based institution with deep roots in the city and a strong focus on its five core areas of practice: Private Equity, Finance and Restructuring, Patent and IP, Wealth Management, and high-stakes Litigation. We spoke with him about his career path, vision for Choate’s future, and the opportunities—and challenges—facing the legal profession today.

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Celebrating Leadership and Legacy: Paige Scott Reed to Be Honored at the 2026 Beacon Award

Paige Scott Reed, Partner at Prince Lobel Tye LLP, will be honored with the BBA’s Beacon Award for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion on February 26, 2026 at Studio B, Big Night Live.

“Paige is a respected leader in public service and private practice who has shaped some of the most transformative community projects in Massachusetts. From serving as Chief Legal Counsel to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to spearheading initiatives in transportation, employment law, and unmanned systems, Paige has consistently broken barriers and forged a path for the next generation of lawyers. Her career exemplifies the type of bold leadership and community-focused impact that the Beacon Awards celebrate.” –BBA President Suma Nair

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Top Law Firms Finalize Merger, Debut McDermott Will & Schulte as New Legal Powerhouse

Following the merger of McDermott Will & Emery and Schulte Roth & Zabel, McDermott Will & Schulte emerges with over 1,750 attorneys across 20+ offices, delivering unmatched service across private capital, healthcare, tax, litigation, and regulatory services. With $3 billion in revenue, the firm sets a bold new standard for client service and leadership.

McDermott Will & Schulte

This merger is more than a collaboration—we’re setting a new standard for excellence in our profession. From serving as indispensable partners to our clients to fostering a people-first culture and driving innovation, we’re challenging conventional models and building a firm for the future.
Ira Coleman
Chairman of McDermott Will & Schulte

Celebrating the Spirit of the Bar: Honoring our Legal Heroes

Thank you to everyone who joined us on October 30 for the BBA’s Spirit of the Bar celebration, and congratulations to all of this year’s honorees!

Lifetime Achievement Award
Chief Justice Margaret H. Marshall

Thurgood Marshall Award
Sullivan & Worcester

John G. Brooks Legal Services Award
MIRA Coalition and Jessica Chicco, Director of Training

Mary K. Ryan Achievement in Pro Bono Awards
Asseret Frausto (McDermott Will & Schulte), Martha J. Koster (Mintz), James “Mac” McCreight, Michael Perez (Touchstone Strategic Law), Doreen M. Rachal (Sidley Austin), Jennifer Rikoski Whitney (Ropes & Gray), Hon. Hector E. Zumbado, Massachusetts District Court

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