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Mark T. Whitford Jr.
Mark T. Whitford Jr.
Partner, Managing Director, Barclay Damon LLP
Years in current role: 3
What is one legal issue or trend you’re keeping a close eye on this year?
There is no question that artificial intelligence is going to have a significant impact on the legal profession in the coming years, with some aspects of our work being replaced by technology. However, I believe our ability to counsel clients and advocate on their behalf will continue to set us apart and allow us to provide incredible value to our clients.
What skills do you think are most crucial for new attorneys entering the field today?
The ability to communicate effectively — whether with a client, a judge or opposing counsel — remains the most critical skill for all new attorneys. Clear and effective communication is the key to ensuring that others really understand the issue and the position being presented.
What’s one misconception people often have about your area of law?
My primary practice is insurance coverage, and when people hear that, they often assume I spend all day reading insurance policies. While understanding the insurance policies is a key part of my work, my practice allows me to help clients across a wide range of industries, including construction, transportation, health care, manufacturing, higher education and hospitality, to name a few. I also spend a lot of time counseling my clients and negotiating claims with other attorneys, which I find to be especially rewarding.
How does the Rochester community influence your work or professional philosophy?
We have such a collegial legal community. When I started litigating cases, I mistakenly believed that my interactions with opposing counsel would always have to be tense or combative. After practicing for almost 20 years in Rochester, I have learned that working with other attorneys in this town is one of the most enjoyable parts of my day. I have developed close personal friendships with many of the attorneys in our community, which I really value.
What’s your ideal way to spend a weekend in the Finger Lakes or Western New York?
My weekends are often spent (happily) cheering on one of my kids on a tennis court, soccer field or basketball court. I also enjoy live music at CMAC or at one of the local festivals, visiting one of our local breweries or grilling on my Big Green Egg!
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This profile is part of our Power 50 Law list for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net. |
