Richard M. Dighello, Jr. is a Shareholder in the Firm’s Litigation Department and Chair of the Product Liability and Toxic Tort Practice Group. Since joining the Firm, Mr. Dighello has focused his practice in the areas of product liability, asbestos defense, toxic tort, construction law and commercial litigation. In product liability, asbestos and toxic tort matters, Mr. Dighello represents several manufacturers with headquarters throughout the country in litigation in Connecticut and Rhode Island. These companies manufacture products ranging from construction materials such as paints, finishes, caulks and roofing, to naval and industrial equipment such as steam turbines, pumps and valves, to friction products such as brakes, clutches and transmission components. As local counsel for these companies, Mr. Dighello has worked closely with national and in-house legal teams, as well as insurance company representatives, to develop strategies for defending cases and achieving favorable results through settlement or trial. In construction matters, Mr. Dighello’s practice involves the representation of design professionals, owners, contractors and subcontractors in all aspects and stages of construction projects from initial conception and contract negotiation to construction and final completion. In addition, his practice includes resolution of any disputes that may arise relating to a project through negotiation, mediation, arbitration and/or litigation. Mr. Dighello is a member of the Connecticut Bar Association, Defense Research Institute and Connecticut Defense Lawyers Association. Mr. Dighello also serves as a Board Member and Vice-Chair of the Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Dighello graduated from Xavier High School in Middletown, CT. He graduated magna cum laude from Quinnipiac College in Hamden, Connecticut in 1993 with a B.A. in History. In 1996, Mr. Dighello received his J.D. from Boston University School of Law.