Fields Howell Expands to the Northeast with New Philadelphia Office and Lateral Hires

Fields Howell LLP has expanded its geographic reach into the Northeast, opening a new office in Newtown, Pennsylvania, with the addition of two lateral hires. The centrally located office will serve clients across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, and gives the firm multiple attorneys licensed in each jurisdiction.

With the opening of the new office, the firm welcomes Robert L. Lakind and Christopher S. Myles, each bringing more than 15 years of experience in civil litigation. Both attorneys will support the firm’s core insurance coverage and litigation practices. The pair became acquainted with Fields Howell after serving as co-counsel on significant matters for mutual clients. The office will be overseen by partner Gregory L. Mast, who has been with the firm since 2004.

Rob Lakind is an experienced litigator who has represented international insurers in casualty losses, managed class action litigation, and handled aviation lawsuits. He earned his Juris Doctor from American University’s Washington College of Law and his LL.M. from New York University School of Law. Before pursuing a legal career, Rob was an airline pilot flying both domestic and international routes. In addition to his commercial and insurance litigation work, he will help expand the firm’s aviation practice. His aviation law experience includes advising clients on compliance, aircraft transactions and leasing, and defending clients under FAA investigation. He has represented insurance companies, operators, airports, aircraft buyers and sellers, and high-net-worth individuals.

Also joining the firm is Christopher S. Myles, who brings a broad litigation background to Fields Howell’s aviation and commercial litigation teams. Over the past 15 years, Chris has handled matters involving commercial disputes, construction, environmental claims, and product liability. He began his legal career as a paralegal and intern before attending Seton Hall University School of Law. After clerking at his prior firm, he was hired as a full-time associate in 2015, focusing on complex litigation.

Managing Partner Paul L. Fields, Jr. commented, “We are always looking to grow strategically with the right people. With Rob and Chris, we found a natural fit.” He added, “The Northeast has always been an area we targeted for possible expansion, and we look forward to continuing to expand in ways that serve our clients.”

Rob Lakind shared, “I am excited to join Fields Howell. The firm’s reputation is well-known, but it is the people and culture of the firm that made the decision easy.”

Fields Howell is a boutique law firm focusing primarily on complex litigation and insurance coverage. The Philadelphia office marks the firm’s fourth location—and first outside the Southeast—joining offices in Atlanta, Miami, and Nashville. The new office is located at 301 S. State Street, Suite N200, Newtown, Pennsylvania 18940.