Brian J. Hughes

Brian Hughes is a civil litigator advocating for businesses and individuals in all state and federal courts in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

With over two decades of legal experience, he is known as a skilled and analytical strategist who guides clients through the myriad laws and regulations to reach the best possible outcome. He regularly practices in the areas of creditors rights, bankruptcy, lender liability defense, real estate title, and construction law.

Real Estate Dispute Dismissed on Motion

Brian successfully prosecuted a motion to dismiss a case brought by a tenant against its landlord, seeking specific performance of a real estate contract and substantial damages. The Superior Court agreed that the tenant did not properly exercise its right of first refusal to purchase the property, saving the client substantial litigation costs and damages.

Avoided Lengthy Bankruptcy and Foreclosure Proceedings

In a Chapter 11 bankruptcy case that appeared to be heading towards contentious foreclosure proceedings, Brian negotiated an advantageous settlement for his junior lender client that also allowed debtor to move out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy and avoid foreclosure.

Local Business Avoids Crippling Liability

Brian was able to negotiate an advantageous settlement in a complex corporate dispute pending in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Using the plaintiff’s own evidence against him, Brian was able to settle the case for less than one-twentieth of his clients’ potential liability, without any admission or wrongdoing.

Jury Finds for Lender Against Commercial Landlord

While representing a large, regional financial institution, he secured a jury verdict that held that a landlord unlawfully disposed of the lender’s collateral that was located on the lender’s property. The lender was awarded substantial damages and attorneys’ fees and reinforced the rule that landlords self-help and act without legal process.

Successful Defense of Discrimination Claim

Brian successfully defended a local manufacturer in a discrimination suit where the client was accused of wrongful employment termination based on allegations of whistle-blower protections, age and disability discrimination. After a five-day jury trial, the court ruled in favor of the manufacturer, avoiding damages. The case involved highly disputed facts and passionate and emotional testimony.

Use of Lien Statute Secured Substantial Recovery

By a combination of fast action and negotiation, Brian recovered over $200,000 for his client, a supply house. The case involved prosecuting over a half dozen mechanics liens and a fraudulent transfer claim that was settled prior to trial.

Clerkships

• Law Clerk to the Justices of the Superior Court, 2002-2003

• Presidential Scholar, Seton Hall University School of Law