Day Pitney LLP is currently facing a motion for disqualification in a $1.3 million lawsuit concerning the dissolution of a private equity management company. The motion, filed by three of the company’s owners, contends that the firm’s involvement is inappropriate due to the prior role of former Connecticut Supreme Court Chief Justice Richard A. Robinson, now a partner at Day Pitney, who presided over the case before it was designated for a new trial. ([law360.com](https://www.law360.com/trials/articles/2448249/day-pitney-faces-dq-bid-over-ex-justice-s-role-in-1-3m-case?utm_source=openai))
Richard A. Robinson joined Day Pitney in September 2024, following his retirement from the Connecticut Supreme Court earlier that month. During his tenure on the bench, Robinson made history in 2018 as the first Black Chief Justice of Connecticut’s highest court. ([daypitney.com](https://www.daypitney.com/news/2024/09/16-dp-former-chief-justice-richard-a-robinson?utm_source=openai))
The plaintiffs argue that Robinson’s prior judicial involvement in the case creates a conflict of interest, necessitating the disqualification of Day Pitney from representing any party in the ongoing litigation. The motion emphasizes the ethical implications of a former judge participating in a case he previously adjudicated, even in a different capacity.
Day Pitney has yet to publicly respond to the disqualification motion. The outcome of this motion could have significant implications for the firm’s involvement in the case and may set a precedent regarding the participation of former judges in matters they previously oversaw.
Legal experts note that such situations underscore the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between judicial service and subsequent private practice to uphold the integrity of the legal system. The court’s decision on this motion will be closely watched for its potential impact on similar cases in the future.