Husch Blackwell is pleased to announce the opening of new offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island, the firm’s first offices in the New England region. The expansion is occasioned by Husch Blackwell’s business combination with Summit Health Law Partners, an 11-attorney boutique law firm focused on the healthcare industry. The offices will officially open September 1, 2021.
“We are excited to establish a presence in New England,” said Husch Blackwell’s Chair Catherine Hanaway. “We are committed to expanding our firm’s reach, both in terms of geography and practice depth, and our new offices make good on that commitment in both respects. The Summit lawyers joining Husch Blackwell are excellent practitioners who value client service and teamwork. I can’t imagine a better group to launch our firm’s New England presence.”
Among Husch Blackwell’s 11 new attorneys, five will join as partners, including Robert (Bob) Blaisdell, Andrew S. (Andy) Levine, Sean Ryan, Jeffrey (Jeff) Chase-Lubitz, and Crystal Bloom, accompanied by counsel Richard Goldstein and Robert L. (Bob) Peabody, and associates Kasey Ciolfi, Steven Tringale, Megan Smith-Mady, and Sydney Sachs.
“As we surveyed the landscape for possible merger candidates, Husch Blackwell distinguished itself as the best fit for our practice, our attorneys, and our clients,” said Blaisdell, who served as Summit Health Law Partners’ managing partner. “The depth and capabilities of its healthcare group, its focus on client service to healthcare providers, and its ability to deliver value through innovative approaches to pricing and legal project management put the firm at the top of our list. We look forward to leading the firm’s growth in New England and are excited to be part of expanding its profile nationally.”
The healthcare-focused expansion into New England coincides with a strong year for the firm’s Healthcare industry team. In June 2021, Husch Blackwell garnered recognition from Chambers USA with a national ranking for top healthcare law firms. Earlier this month, Husch Blackwell moved into the top five of the American Health Law Association’s annual ranking. Members of Husch Blackwell’s Healthcare group also serve as the current chair of the American Bar Association’s Health Law Section and as the President-Elect of the American Health Law Association.
“Boston is a traditional hub for healthcare and life sciences innovation, and we look forward to building on the excellent reputation that Summit Health Law has earned in that market,” said Curt Chase, the leader of Husch Blackwell’s Healthcare industry group. “I believe our client service ethic, our deep experience working with healthcare providers, and our innovative approach to rates and legal project management provide a compelling value proposition for prospective clients in the region.”