Coogan Smith, LLP: Upholding Integrity Through Generations

Coogan Smith, LLP is the largest full-service law firm in the Attleboro area and one of Southern New England’s most respected legal institutions.

Founded in 1946 by former Mayor John W. McIntyre and Harvard Law graduate Edmund F. Henry, the firm was built on the belief that strong legal counsel should also strengthen the community it serves.

Over the decades, the firm evolved through several mergers, eventually adopting its current name in 2015 to honour two senior partners — James Jerome “Jerry” Coogan and Pierce D. Smith. Together, they helped define the modern culture of the firm: a blend of professionalism, integrity, and civic involvement.

Today, Coogan Smith represents individuals, families, and businesses in a wide range of legal matters, from real estate and corporate transactions to litigation and local government affairs. Their reputation rests on a simple foundation — provide excellent service, act with honesty, and give back to the community.

The firm’s attorneys are active in local charities, non-profit boards, and government committees. They have earned recognition not only for their legal work but also for their leadership in civic life.

For nearly eighty years, Coogan Smith, LLP has remained a trusted partner in law — known for balancing expertise with empathy, and for turning community commitment into lasting impact. Their legacy is one of both legal excellence and public service, proving that true leadership begins with integrity.

Q&A with Coogan Smith, LLP

How did Coogan Smith, LLP begin its journey, and what inspired its founding?

The firm’s story began in 1946, right after the Second World War. John W. McIntyre, who had served as both Mayor of Attleboro and a District Court Judge, joined forces with Edmund F. Henry, a Harvard Law graduate returning from military service. They wanted to create a law practice that combined excellence with a sense of duty to their community. What started as McIntyre & Henry became the foundation for everything we are today.

The firm has gone through several transformations. How did those shape its identity?

Every merger reflected growth — not just in size, but in perspective. Each generation brought new expertise, fresh energy, and a shared belief that law should serve people first. When we became Coogan Smith, LLP in 2015, we honoured two partners who embodied those ideals: James “Jerry” Coogan and Pierce D. Smith. Their leadership helped define the firm’s modern character — professional yet personable, ambitious yet community-minded.

What makes Coogan Smith, LLP stand out among other firms in the region?

We’re a full-service firm with deep local roots. That combination allows us to handle complex matters while staying connected to the people we serve. We represent individuals and businesses across Southern New England, but we’ve never lost our small-town sense of care. Clients appreciate that they can speak to someone who knows them — and their community — personally.

Community engagement seems to be a recurring theme in your work. Why is that so important?

Our founders believed that the law should improve lives. That belief runs through every generation of this firm. Many of our lawyers serve on local boards, volunteer for charities, or take part in civic projects. We’ve helped draft policies, advised local councils, and supported youth initiatives. Those experiences make us better advocates and better neighbours.

The legal industry is changing rapidly. How has the firm adapted over the years?

The pace of change has been incredible — technology, communication, client expectations. But we’ve kept our balance by blending innovation with tradition. We use modern tools to streamline our work, yet we never forget that law is still about trust. That means listening, understanding, and being present. Technology can help, but human connection remains at the heart of what we do.

What’s one challenge facing law firms today that people might not expect?

Maintaining that balance between efficiency and empathy. The modern client expects speed and transparency, but they also need reassurance. We strive to meet both needs without compromising quality. Another challenge is attracting the next generation of lawyers who not only want to succeed but to serve. We spend a lot of time mentoring — teaching that success in law is built on patience, ethics, and teamwork.

Coogan Smith, LLP has nearly eight decades of history. What lessons from that past still guide you?

Consistency and integrity. We’ve learned that reputation isn’t built overnight; it’s earned through small, steady actions. Whether you’re helping a business owner sign their first contract or representing a family in court, the principle is the same — do good work and do it honestly.

How do you see the firm’s role in the community evolving in the years to come?

We’ll continue to expand our practice areas, but our local presence will always be central. The next generation of partners is passionate about service — not just to clients, but to causes that make this region stronger. We want to be known not only as excellent lawyers but as contributors to the wellbeing of our towns and cities.