“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
        
 Christopher S. 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

        Blog

        Will the Knicks Beat the Spurs? (Are Prediction Market Event Contracts Gambling?)

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        Alerts and Newsletters

        DOJ Announces Faster Review and Enhanced Enforcement for Benefits-Fraud FCA Matters

        On May 27, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Division issued a new memorandum, “Accelerating Review and Enhancing Enforcement in...
        Alerts and Newsletters

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        Media Mentions

        Lauren Galvin Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on Arbitration and Anti-SLAPP Protections

        Verrill Partner Lauren Galvin was recently featured in a Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly article highlighting a notable Superior Court decision...
        Blog

        Section 530A Accounts: What Employers Should Consider Before Offering Contributions to “Trump” Accounts

        Section 530A accounts, commonly referred to as Trump accounts, have attracted attention since the enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in...
        Blog

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        Blog

        DOL’s Proposed Regulation on Selecting Alternative Investments: Broad Implications for 401(k) and 403(b) Plan Fiduciaries

        On March 30, 2026, the Department of Labor issued a proposed regulation purporting to implement an executive order to expand access to “alternative...
        Press Releases

        Verrill Welcomes Private Clients & Fiduciary Services Attorney Gracie Castle

        BOSTON, Massachusetts – Verrill is pleased to welcome Gracie Castle to the firm’s Private Clients & Fiduciary Services Group as an Associate,...
        Published Works

        Francesco De Vito Authors Article in the Journal of the American College of Mortgage Attorneys

        Verrill Partner Frank De Vito authored an article featured in the Spring 2026 issue of The Abstract, the journal of the American College of Mortgage...
        Alerts and Newsletters

        Recent FinCEN Advisory Highlights Rising Health Care Fraud Risk for Financial Institutions

        As the federal government intensifies its “whole of government” approach to combat fraud, waste, and abuse, particularly in Federal Health Care...
        Press Releases

        Two Verrill Attorneys Featured in the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Global Bankruptcy & Restructuring Lawyers List

        PORTLAND, Maine – Verrill attorneys Roger A. Clement, Jr. and Robert J. Keach have been featured in the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Global...
        Published Works

        Verrill Attorney Mark Googins Co-Authors Maine Commercial Lending Handbook

        Verrill attorney Mark Googins has co-authored the Maine Commercial Lending Handbook (Second Edition), published March 2026.  A trusted, practical...