Vermont's Most Powerful Law Firms

Submitted by editorvt on March 23, 2008 - 4:39pm.

The PolitickerVT.com list of the state’s MOST POWERFUL LAW FIRMS identifies the law firms in the state that carry the most political power – the most sway over the business of government and politics. We looked for the firms with the combination of political influence, marquee names, and access to policymakers at different levels of government. These lawyers understand how the inside political game is played and how to get results for their clients. As always, our lists are subjective – we welcome your comments.

1
Name:
Hoff, Curtis, Pacht, Cassidy, Frame, Somers, and Katims, P.C.

Description:

The Philip Hoff’s firm ranks as our number most powerful firm in Vermont.  While not the largest in the state with the former Governor as its founder, this firm is the “Big Gun” as one Montpelier lobbyist put it.  

2
Name:
Downs, Rachlin and Martin

Description:

Downs-Rachlin is the largest firm in Vermont with over 65 attorneys and known for having deep roots in the business community with an impressive client list.  Allen Martin the former GOP State Committeeman has left the firm but their political connections run deep.  Thomas Moody, their venture capital expert, helped set up Tarrant’s Campaign Committee and Peter Kunin, son of the former Governor is also a partner there.   They are also rumored to have the best access to Senator Leahy’s office. 

3
Name:
Primmer, Piper, Eggleston and Cramer PC

Description:

Primmer and Piper recently got bigger and with twenty eight attorney’s ranks as in the top three in the state by size.  They have a good list of clients in Montpelier.  Bill Piper is known for his work in the Utility and Telecom areas.  

4
Name:
Kimbell, Storrow, Buckley, Hughes, LLP

Description:

The law firm arm of the Kimbell and Sherman PR firm, Kimbell, Storrow, Buckley and Hughes makes the list mainly because of Stephen Kimbell. Kimbell, the former Kunin staffer, is one of the state’s most effective lobbyists, and a true insider.

5
Name:
Miller and Smith

Description:

This is small firm in Northfield, but what the lack in size is made up by the quality of their client list.  Ed Miller is one of the top lobbyists in Montpelier and his influence gets them in the top 5.

6
Name:
Sheehey, Furlong and Behm PC

Description:

This ten attorney firm is not a powerhouse yet with Ian Carleton moving to the firm in 2003 they scored a big win.  This Yale law grad is the Chairman of the Democratic Party and has unlimited access to all the key players in the State and in DC.   Carleton’s star continues to rise and as long as the firm can keep him look for the firm to move up the rankings quickly.  

7
Name:
Salmon and Associates

Description:

The former Governor’s firm doesn’t make the list for their legal work or client list.  Yet, anyone who wants to be anything has to come see the former Governor in his law offices in Bellow Falls.   Salmon’s moderate Democratic position makes him attractive to both Democrats and Republicans.  And with Tom Salmon Jr. now State Auditor and likely future gubernatorial candidate look for Salmon and Associates to remain on the list.    The former Governor’s advice and more importantly his endorsements are golden. 

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Quote of the Day

July 3, 2008

"This enables folks who may still be unemployed despite their best efforts some additional cushion to help them through this difficult time."

-- Patricia Moulton-Powden, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Labor, on an agreement between the state and federal government that could extend emergency unemployment payments to as many as 4,000 Vermonters.

-Vermont Press Bureau, 7/3/08
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