Shipman & Goodwin Elects New Leadership Team for 2026-2027

Shipman & Goodwin LLP, a prominent law firm based in Hartford, Connecticut, recently unveiled its newly elected Management Committee members for the upcoming term of 2026-2027, effective January 1, 2026. As the firm continues to expand its impact in the legal sector, the newly formed committee showcases a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives that aim to steer the organization towards new heights.

Leander Dolphin will maintain his role as the Managing Partner, a position he has held with distinction. Joining him in the new Management Committee are several accomplished partners: Nathan (Nate) Plotkin, Jessica Ritter, and Andrew Zeitlin. The returning members—Julie Fay, Gabriel (Gabe) Jiran, and Marie Pollio—bring a wealth of experience and established presence within the firm. This dynamic combination signals the firm’s commitment to both stability and progressive change.

In his announcement, Dolphin expressed gratitude for the support from his colleagues and highlighted the collaborative leadership approach that has long been a cornerstone of Shipman's success. He remarked, "I am excited to work alongside this talented group of colleagues as we build on the firm’s momentum and remain deeply focused on our clients, people, and communities."

The firm acknowledges the significant contributions of former committee members Kent Nevins, Eric Goldstein, and Steve Gellman, who have transitioned out after completing their dedicated terms. Nevins, who served as Chair for five years, will now focus on his transactional real estate practice as Chair Emeritus. His reflections on the firm’s journey underscore the value of strong leadership and its impact on the firm’s trajectory.

Dolphin and the new committee members are keen to ensure that Shipman & Goodwin continues to thrive within the competitive legal landscape. The firm has been on a path of sustained growth, particularly with its strategic expansion in the Northeast region. This new committee underscores their commitment to delivering exceptional client service while reinforcing strong governance practices across a multitude of legal disciplines.

The expertise brought by the new committee members is essential to supporting the firm’s diverse practice areas. Nathan Plotkin serves as co-chair of the Corporate Trust Practice Group and is instrumental in facilitating corporate debt issues and various financing transactions. He represents pivotal entities such as corporate trustees and collateral agents, navigating complex legal terrains with expertise.

Meanwhile, Jessica Ritter takes charge of the School Law Practice Group and plays a crucial role in addressing a wide array of school governance, student, and employment matters. Her experience in labor law enriches her advocacy for public education, which encompasses negotiating collective bargaining agreements and effective representation in administrative proceedings.

On the litigation front, Andrew Zeitlin co-chairs the Litigation Department, handling intricate business litigation and creditors’ rights. Zeitlin’s extensive litigation experience equips him to tackle high-stakes legal disputes, including business torts and intellectual property claims.

Shipman & Goodwin's dedication to its clients and the broader community remains central to its mission. With over 160 attorneys across multiple states, the firm underscores its capability to serve both regional and international clients, ensuring that they are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the legal profession.

Conclusion

As Shipman & Goodwin embarks on this exciting chapter with a revitalized leadership team, the firm is poised to continue its journey of excellence in legal services while reinforcing its commitment to the communities it serves. With seasoned professionals at the helm, the firm is excited to confront future challenges and opportunities, always with its clients' best interests at the forefront.