Olenn & Penza, LLP

Olenn & Penza, LLP was established 30 years ago and is now the largest litigation law firm in Kent County and one of the 20 largest in Rhode Island. Renn Olenn, Joe Penza, and their founding partners first met during their Boston University law studies. They shared similar values and high standards, leading to their joint venture in 1975. In the early 1980s, they hired their first Olenn & Penza Associate. Michael J. Colucci, now a partner, joined the firm as a consultant in 1985. Holly R. Rao, Michael T. Prew, and Martin K. DeMagistris, all of whom are partners today, were also hired in 1988. Olenn & Penza has defended fishing vessels, fishers, and insurance companies in civil maritime litigation for over two decades. This litigation and defense include Jones Act claims, seaworthiness, and maintenance and repair. The admiralty and maritime practice expanded to include litigation and legal service for maritime employment agreements, insurance coverage, and subrogation. Over the past decade, the commercial fishing, maritime insurance, and maritime law industry has undergone significant changes to Jones Act caselaw and other maritime personal injury cases. Increased business challenges, including higher litigation costs, increased personal injury awards, and stricter regulatory requirements, have resulted from these changes. Olenn & Penza effectively addresses these challenges by providing cost-effective and practical solutions to admiralty disputes and claims. Settlements have included dozens of claims via arbitration or mediation.