Scott Rogoff

Partner, Barclay Damon, LLP

Years in current role: 17 (24 at Barclay Damon)

What changes in the legal industry do you believe will have the biggest impact on clients over the next few years?

Access to information has never been easier or more prolific. We as lawyers must deal with the reality that when clients seek our advice, they may already have a sense of what the electronic community thinks is the answer. They listen to podcasts, conduct online searches and consult AI. But that’s where our professional judgment, experience and understanding of a client’s culture, operations and business objectives become critical. AI can be an effective tool — we use it as well — but it is ultimately just a starting point. Its greatest value is in helping attorneys become more efficient and effective advisors and advocates.

How do you balance legal expertise with client service and relationship-building?

They are one and the same. Clients rightly expect attorneys to be experts in their field and equally invested in their client’s success. That means understanding their business, challenges and opportunities beyond the legal issue at hand. In my practice, clients often need immediate, reassuring and practical guidance to prevent a problem from escalating. Responsiveness is therefore key. Even an expert legal advisor is of little value if they are not available. I always take an interactive approach with clients and truly enjoy getting to know them personally. The stronger the relationship, the better I can understand their needs and priorities to provide strategic and pragmatic advice. I always strive for clients to view me not only as their attorney, but as a trusted advisor and partner.

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

It is critical and ingrained in our culture. Attorneys and staff at all levels frequently participate in firm-sponsored events including community service days, charity walks and other activities supporting nonprofit organizations and diverse members of our community. We also host internal educational “lunch and learn” programs and publish a diversity newsletter highlighting important issues and our community involvement activities. The firm is equally committed to pro bono service. We actively support and recognize attorneys and staff for their outstanding work providing free legal assistance to those in need. Community involvement and pro bono work are integral to who we are at Barclay Damon, and we are proud to be a strong partner in the communities we serve.

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.