800-951-4888 x7361
dennis.coleman@ropesgray.com

I hail from Darby, Pennsylvania; a small town outside of Philadelphia. I am one of eight siblings in a family recognized in the community for our work ethic, civic involvement and athletic achievement. A football scholarship paved the way for my undergraduate studies in Arizona and Rhode Island. I received my undergraduate degree from Brown University and my Juris Doctorate from the Georgetown University Law Center. Upon graduation from law school I returned to Rhode Island to practice in a large corporate law firm. After several years in the corporate environment I was enticed by the challenge to establish my own firm with two colleagues. While I enjoyed being part of a small team and found the work rewarding, I ultimately concluded that the rigorous standards, stability, support and collegiality offered at Ropes & Gray would enhance my opportunities to grow as a lawyer and have greater impact both on the field of law and the community. While my path to Ropes & Gray was not traditional it has afforded me experiences which gives me an added perspective regarding the practice of law and the importance of increasing the representation of people of color throughout the practice of law.

I have been at Ropes & Gray since 1988 and a partner since 1993. I am chairman of the firm’s Sports Law Group, a member of the Attorneys of Color Group and I serve on the firm’s Hiring Group and Diversity Committees. I am a member of the Rhode Island Black Lawyers Association, The Sports Lawyers Association and a participant in the American Bar Association’s Sports and Entertainment Forum.

I reside in Rhode Island with my wife. I have three children and one grandchild. I enjoy golf, reading, music and travel.

close window