FLB Insights
I Am The Law Podcast: Eric Bernheim Shares How He Powers Restaurant Expansion Through Smart Leasing
Eric Bernheim, co-managing partner at FLB Law, was recently interviewed for the I Am The Law podcast. In the episode, he shares how his work with brands like Barcelona Wine Bar, Bar Taco, and 60 Vines has shaped his approach to restaurant leasing and expansion, helping clients grow with smart, consistent leases that protect long-term success.
How Connecticut Defendants Can Limit Their Liability Amid Soaring Personal Injury Verdicts
Personal injury verdicts in Connecticut are reaching record levels. In recent years, juries have awarded tens of millions of dollars in damages, including a $100 million verdict in 2022 and a $45 million award in 2023. These cases, often involving catastrophic injuries and corporate defendants, highlight the need for defendants to take a proactive, strategic approach to mitigate risk.
How SCOTUS’s “Reverse Discrimination” Ruling, “McDonnell Douglas” Opinion Will Impact Connecticut Employers
On June 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision holding that so-called “reverse discrimination” claims under Title VII are to be evaluated under the same standard as claims brought by historically disadvantaged groups. In a concurring opinion, two justices questioned the continued validity of the long-standing “McDonnell Douglas” framework used when there is no direct evidence of discrimination. This ruling, along with the concurring opinion, carries important implications for employers in Connecticut.
Nine FLB Law Attorneys Selected to the 2026 Best Lawyers in America®
FLB Law is pleased to announce that nine attorneys were honored with inclusion in the 2026 Best Lawyers in America® and Ones to Watch. Stephen Fogerty, one of the firm’s managing partners, was recognized with the exclusive “Lawyer of the Year” in Labor & Employment Litigation in Stamford.
FLB Law Gives Back During Day of Service, Fuels Classroom Success and Community Growth
On Tuesday, August 5, FLB Law embraced its spirit of service during its annual Day of Service by purchasing backpacks and school supplies in support of the Sterling Community House’s Back to School Supply Fundraiser.
FLB Law Secures Defense Verdict in Slip-and-Fall Case on Hospitality Client’s Property
Robert Rhodes secured a defense verdict in a premises liability lawsuit filed against hospitality company.
FLB Law Guides Honda Service Center Expansion in Fairfield
FLB Law’s Land Use & Zoning Practice successfully represented Honda of Westport in securing zoning approval to expand its service center into the former Olé Soccer facility on Linwood Avenue in Fairfield.
FLB Law’s Bob Rhodes Secures Appellate Win in Slip and Fall Case for Hospitality Client
FLB Law partner Bob Rhodes successfully defended a hospitality client in a premises liability case on appeal, preserving a trial court victory for the defendant in a slip and fall matter previously reported.
FLB Law's Eric Bernheim Recognized in 2025 Chambers USA for Real Estate and Land Use Law
Managing Partner Eric Bernheim has been named to the 2025 Chambers USA guide of top Connecticut attorneys, earning recognition in both the Real Estate and Land Use/Zoning categories.
How the Proposed Tax Bill Would Impact Connecticut Estates, Individuals, and Businesses
FLB Law attorney Les Grodd explains the landmark bill that would extend and expand provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
FLB Law Promotes Wellness with Chair Massages for Staff During Stress Awareness Month
In celebration of National Stress Awareness Month and Administrative Professionals Day, FLB Law once again prioritized employee well-being by offering complimentary chair massages to all staff members.
FLB Law’s Annual Real Estate Outlook to Highlight Key Projects Shaping the Future of Fairfield County
The 2025 Real Estate Outlook, FLB Law’s annual Fairfield County real estate event, will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in the M& T Bank’s Magnificent Room at The SoNo Collection. This year’s theme, Breaking New Ground: The Projects That Will Impact Fairfield County features panelists who will discuss the county exciting new projects.
FLB Law Scores Approval for Variance Using Compelling ADA and FHA Argument
FLB Law successfully obtained a zoning variance from the New Canaan Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to modify a family's home for their son with cerebral palsy. The variance allows for an elevator and backyard pavilions, ensuring accessibility.
Connecticut Appellate Court Limits Scope of Litigation Privilege to Exclude Allegations That Fall Outside the Judicial Process
Connecticut courts have long applied the litigation privilege to shield lawyers and others from civil liability for statements made during legal proceedings. The doctrine encourages candid advocacy without fear of lawsuits. While courts have recently expanded these protections, a recent appeals case narrowed the scope, excluding alleged conduct occurring outside or before litigation.
The Hamlet at Saugatuck P&Z Review Advances with Detailed Presentation by Eric Bernheim
At the March 10th Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, FLB Law Partner Eric Bernheim led the Roan Development Ventures team in presenting a detailed overview of The Hamlet at Saugatuck project. The four-hour session introduced plans for a multi-story, mixed-use development.
FLB Law Celebrates a Strong 2024 in Leasing with Expanding Restaurant Footprint
FLB Law’s Real Estate practice reported a strong 2024, handling more than 23,000 square feet in lease negotiations, amendments, and renewals, solidifying its clients’ presence across key metropolitan areas.
The majority of those leasing deals were for prominent restaurant brands, including Mexican Sugar, bartaco, Sixty Vines, Barcelona Wine Bar/Corsica, and Hawkers, supporting its reputation as a trusted legal partner in the hospitality sector.
Why You Should Not Hire a Non-Lawyer to Mediate Your Divorce
FLB Law ‘s Alan Rubenstein explains why you should hire a Family Law attorney meditator.
Dan Woog Reports on the Latest Developments with The Hamlet at Saugatuck in his Widely Read 00068 Blog
The Hamlet at Saugatuck, which promises to transform Westport’s historic Saugatuck district, has advanced after months of silence, with FLB Law filings ROAN Ventures revised plans with the Planning & Zoning Department. The updated proposal, reflecting community feedback, promises a more refined and distinct New England aesthetic.
Weston Today Highlights Four Corners Project, FLB Law Partner Eric Bernheim Advocates for Key Zoning Changes
Weston Today’s February 12, 2025, article covered the recent Weston Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, where FLB Law Partner Eric Bernheim represented Able Construction in its Four Corners development project.
Arbitration Clauses Can Protect Consumer-Facing Businesses, but They Can Be a Double-Edged Sword
In an increasingly litigious society, companies that provide products and services directly to the public worry about the potential high costs of litigation. In an attempt to limit their exposure, many consumer-facing businesses include arbitration provisions in their customer contracts. But as some high-profile businesses have discovered, the use of arbitration clauses can backfire and wind up costing them more.