“When I first started Allagash Brewing in 1994, I knew that I needed a law firm to represent us for paperwork, incorporating, corporate documents, etc. At the time, I thought the only concern I would ever have would be accuracy and having the work done correctly. I never considered service a factor. After being in business for 25 years, I have come to realize that not only do you need it done right, sometimes you need it done right away. Every time I call Verrill with a question, issue or task, I feel as though they drop everything to resolve it. No job is too small; every question is important.” — Rob Tod, Founder of Allagash Brewing

        Rob Tod, Founder of Allagash BrewingEating and drinking—it’s a fundamental part of our lives. However, navigating the legal landscape surrounding the sourcing of food and beverages can be a complex journey. At Verrill, we understand the extensive legal implications and regulations that may impact your business. We aim to use our broad understanding of the food and beverage market to help companies proactively identify and manage risks. Whether you operate in a retail setting, are a manufacturer, or engage in vertical integration, facing the challenges of manufacturing and retail, our experienced team is here to guide you through these hurdles.

        Retail Food and Beverage

        The retail food and beverage industry has a unique culture that sets it apart from other sectors. Our goal is to help you prioritize the legal risks that your company may face and work with you to develop a sensible plan. Whether you run a local bar, restaurant, food truck, or franchise, your reputation depends on the quality of your products and the professionalism of your staff. We strive to equip business owners and operators with the tools they need to protect their brand and company, especially in an industry with very thin profit margins.

        Manufacturing Food and Beverage

        Manufacturing in the food and beverage industry is a challenging task. It requires creating a safe work environment compliant with food production laws while maintaining efficiency. Implementing risk-management policies is crucial to a company’s success in this industry. Our experience in this field allows us to help food manufacturers scale up and improve their processes. We also assist in pivoting or scaling down operations when market dynamics change, providing valuable insights and proactive solutions to our manufacturing clients.

        Food & Beverage Services

        People
        
 Tawny L. Alvarez
        (207) 253 4522
        
 Charles P. Bacall
        (207) 253 4414
        
 Jill G. Cohen
        (207) 253 4834
        
 Kelly A. Donahue
        (207) 253 4716
        
 Jonathan M. Dunitz
        (207) 253 4478
        
 Mark K. Googins
        (207) 253 4406
        
 Sara E. Hirshon

        Sara E. Hirshon

        Partner, E-Discovery Counsel
        (617) 309 2614
        
 Elizabeth T. Johnston
        (207) 253 4472
        
 Robert Laplaca
        (203) 222 3110
        
 Chris Lockman
        (207) 253 4712
        
 Kevin J. O’Connell
        (617) 292 2862
        
 Michael V. Saxl
        (207) 629 0322
        Resources
        Events
        When: March 7, 2024 at 8:30am – 5:30pm (EDT)
        Location: The Holiday Inn By The Bay
        People: Tawny L. Alvarez

        Firm Highlights

        Published Works

        Four Verrill Attorneys Co-Author Massachusetts Trends and Developments Chapter for Chambers and Partners Child Relocation 2026 Guide

        Verrill attorneys Mary H. Schmidt, Rachel A. Deering, Hannah R. Zukoff, and Mariah G. Tappan co-authored the “Trends and Developments” chapter...
        Blog

        A New Protected Class in Maine: Holders of Final Protection Orders

        In the lead-up to Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, employers may be taking a closer look at how their policies and practices respond to...
        Alerts and Newsletters

        Verrill Secures SJC Victory for Boston Legacy FC in White Stadium Litigation

        Verrill has secured a significant appellate victory for Boston Legacy FC in the litigation challenging the redevelopment of White Stadium in...
        Blog

        Hurry Up and Wait

        This is the third in a series of Verrill blog posts on Maine’s packaging extended producer responsibility (“EPR”) law[1]. In July we reported...
        Media Mentions

        Robert Keach Discusses First Brands Chapter 11 Case in Law360

        Verrill attorney Robert Keach was recently quoted in a Law360 article examining the rejection of First Brands Group's Chapter 11 plan and the...
        Media Mentions

        Cybersecurity and AI Governance: Scott Anderson Featured in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly

        Verrill Managing Partner Scott Anderson was recently featured in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly discussing how law firms can build attorney buy-in for...
        Blog

        Section 530A Account Update: ERISA Status of Trump Accounts

        The Department of Labor has issued important guidance addressing whether employer programs that permit contributions to Section 530A accounts (and...
        Press Releases

        97 Verrill Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers® 2027, Including Four Named Lawyers of the Year

        AUGUSTA, Maine, BANGOR, Maine, BOSTON, Mass., PORTLAND, Maine, and WESTPORT, Conn., (August 20, 2026) – Verrill is proud to announce that 97...
        Alerts and Newsletters

        SEC’s Proposed “Reg Crypto”: What Founders Need to Know

        Startup founders and emerging-growth companies have a number of options for raising capital under the federal securities laws, including Regulation D...
        Blog

        After 45 Years, the IRS Speaks on DCAP Nondiscrimination Testing – And It’s Good News

        Employers that provide a Dependent Care Assistance Program will be pleased to learn that for the first time in 45 years, the IRS has issued guidance...
        Media Mentions

        U.S. Courts Highlights Annabel Rodriguez’s Journey from Fellow to Mentor

        Verrill attorney Annabel Rodriguez was featured in a recent U.S. Courts article titled “From Fellows to Mentors: Alumni Share Lasting Lessons from...
        Media Mentions

        Robert Keach Discusses Bankruptcy Auction Strategy in Law360

        Verrill attorney Robert Keach spoke with Law360 article examining the complex bankruptcy auction process that resulted in the sale of 23 summer...