Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca, LLP Adds Top Litigator Robert Shelquist in Continued Expansion

Shelquist to lead new Minneapolis office as part of firm’s ongoing nationwide growth in class action and complex litigation

WASHINGTON, DC – Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca, LLP (CGL) announces that Robert Shelquist has joined the firm as a partner, expanding CGL’s national footprint with the launch of a new office in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Shelquist, formerly a partner at Lockridge Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P., brings more than 30 years of experience in class action and complex civil litigation, with a remarkable track record of securing nearly $1 billion in recoveries for plaintiffs. His addition reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to growing its reach and deepening its litigation capabilities across the country.

Shelquist’s arrival marks a significant milestone in the firm’s strategic expansion. A leader in consumer protection and defective products litigation, he has secured landmark verdicts, including a $60 million jury award in Peterson v. BASF Corp. He has also served in court-appointed leadership roles in both state and federal courts across the country. From his base in Minneapolis, Shelquist will focus on advancing the firm’s consumer and antitrust practices in the Midwest.

“Rob Shelquist is an outstanding trial lawyer with a proven ability to lead complex, high-stakes cases to successful outcomes,” said Charles LaDuca, Chairman of Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca. “His expertise, combined with his deep commitment to client advocacy, makes him a perfect fit for our team as we continue to grow and diversify our practice.”

The Minneapolis office represents a new frontier in CGL’s expansion and reinforces the firm’s mission of delivering high-impact litigation and policy expertise in key regions. It also points to CGL’s sustained growth and latest milestones, including:

• Welcoming Michael Lenett as Of Counsel, bringing deep experience in managing contracts, risk mitigation, and business strategy;
• Adding Charles Barrett as a new partner and opening a new office in Nashville, Tennessee to grow the firm’s presence in the Southeast;
• Expanding the Government Relations division with the hires of Slade Bond and Sarah Rooney, seasoned advocates with extensive experience in legislative and regulatory affairs.

“Joining Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca is an exciting opportunity to continue my work on behalf of plaintiffs while contributing to a firm that is clearly dedicated to strategic, national growth,” said Robert Shelquist. “The firm’s expanding footprint and commitment to excellence make this an exciting time to be part of the team.”

Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca, LLP Expands into Tennessee with Addition of Acclaimed Litigator Charles F. Barrett

Strategic hire strengthens firm’s Southeast presence and product liability practice

WASHINGTON, DC — Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca, LLP announces a significant expansion into Tennessee with the addition of Charles F. Barrett as partner to lead its Product Liability Practice. Barrett brings decades of experience litigating complex cases in state and federal courts nationwide, with particular expertise in class actions, antitrust matters, and commercial disputes.  

Throughout his distinguished career, Barrett has played pivotal roles in numerous landmark cases, including securing a $140 million RICO verdict against Pfizer and successfully representing hundreds of policyholders in Hurricane Katrina insurance litigation. He was also instrumental in the high-profile Hale v. State Farm class action and represented international financial institutions in complex commercial disputes. 

“The addition of Charles Barrett not only brings exceptional litigation talent to our firm but also establishes our presence in Tennessee, a strategic market for our continued growth,” said Charles J. LaDuca, Firm Chairman, Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca, LLP. “His deep roots in the Southeast and experience handling complex product liability cases and class actions will significantly enhance our ability to serve our clients throughout the region.”  

A recognized leader in his field, Barrett has received numerous accolades, including consistent recognition in The Best Lawyers in America ® for Commercial Litigation, Antitrust Litigation, and Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions. He was also honored with the American Antitrust Institute’s 2024 Antitrust Enforcement Award. 

“Joining Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca represents an exciting opportunity to expand the firm’s footprint into Tennessee and the broader Southeast market,” said Barrett. “The firm’s commitment to excellence and its track record of successfully handling complex litigation aligns perfectly with my experience and vision. I look forward to growing our presence in Tennessee while continuing to serve our clients with the highest level of advocacy.” 

Barrett’s practice focuses on complex commercial litigation, class actions, and antitrust matters. He has extensive experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in high-stakes litigation across multiple industries, including healthcare, insurance, and financial services. His addition to Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca further strengthens the firm’s position as a leader in complex litigation and class actions. 

The Nashville office will serve as a hub for the firm’s Southeast operations, focusing on complex commercial litigation, class actions, and antitrust matters across multiple industries, including healthcare, insurance, and financial services. This expansion reflects the firm’s commitment to strategic growth and its mission to provide exceptional legal representation to clients throughout the United States.