Meghan DiPasquale

Rochester Business Journal Staff//July 17, 2026//

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Counsel, Hodgson Russ

Years in current role: 2+

What is one challenge currently facing the legal profession that deserves more attention?

Unfortunately the challenge for many to access legal assistance is both a current and long-standing issue. When people are not able to access affordable legal help, it affects the ability of courts to address disputes in a timely manner, it impacts individuals’ legal rights, and it leads to distrust in the legal system. As legal services become more expensive and legal issues more complex, there are less competent practitioners available and/or willing to assist those that are otherwise unable to afford counsel, and organizations seeking to provide these services are not able to support people who need help. Lawyers as a profession need to lean in to assist those in need and highlight to young attorneys our responsibility to support a just legal system.

How important is community involvement or pro bono work within your organization?

Hodgson is involved in numerous nonprofit organizations in the areas in which the firm has offices, and encourages individual lawyers to participate in pro bono work in those communities as well. Our involvement includes provision of legal services, fund raising and board participation. Young lawyers are encouraged to be engaged in these activities and our more senior attorneys mentor our lawyers to find an organization that fits their expertise and passion to maintain long term commitment to those groups.

What is one accomplishment — professional or personal — that you are especially proud of?

My children continue to be the “accomplishment” of which I am the proudest. They are both strong, kind and independent people who are thriving in their work and in their communities. It remains a joy to watch them grow, and thankfully want to spend time at home when they can.

This profile is part of our Labor & Employment Law Power List for 2026. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net.