Coogan Smith, LLP is the largest full-service law firm in the Attleboro area and one of the most respected legal institutions in southern New England.
Founded in 1946 by former Mayor John W. McIntyre and Harvard Law graduate Edmund F. Henry, the firm is based on the belief that strong legal advice should also strengthen the community it serves.
Over the decades, the firm evolved through multiple mergers, eventually adopting its current name in 2015 to honor two senior partners – James Jerome “Jerry” Coogan and Pierce D. Smith. Together, they have helped define the company’s modern culture: a blend of professionalism, integrity and civic engagement.
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 matters. Their reputation rests on one simple foundation: they provide excellent service, act honestly, and give back to the community.
The firm’s attorneys are active on local charities, nonprofit boards and government committees. They have received recognition not only for their legal work, but also for their leadership in civic life.
For nearly eighty years, Coogan Smith, LLP has been a trusted legal partner – known for balancing expertise with compassion and transforming community engagement into lasting impact. Her 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 the journey of Coogan Smith, LLP begin and what inspired its founding?
The company’s history began in 1946, right after the Second World War. John W. McIntyre, who had served as both Attleboro mayor and county court judge, joined forces with Edmund F. Henry, a Harvard law graduate returning from military service. They wanted to create a law firm that combined excellence with a sense of duty to their community. What began as McIntyre & Henry became the foundation for everything we are today.
The company has undergone several transformations. How have these shaped his identity?
Each merger reflected growth – not just in size but also in perspective. Each generation brought with it new expertise, fresh energy, and a shared belief that law should serve people first. When we became Coogan Smith, LLP in 2015, we honored two partners who embodied these ideals: James “Jerry” Coogan and Pierce D. Smith. Her leadership has helped define the company’s modern character – professional yet personable, ambitious yet community-oriented.
What sets Coogan Smith, LLP apart from other firms in the area?
We are a full-service company with deep local roots. This combination allows us to handle complex matters while staying connected to the people we serve. We represent individuals and businesses throughout southern New England, but we have never lost that small-town sense of caring. Customers appreciate being able to talk to someone who knows them – and their community – personally.
Community engagement seems to be a recurring theme in your work. Why is this so important?
Our founders believed that law should improve lives. This belief runs through every generation of this company. Many of our attorneys serve on local committees, volunteer for charities, or participate in community projects. We have helped develop policies, advised local councils and supported youth initiatives. These experiences make us better advocates and better neighbors.
The legal industry is changing rapidly. How has the company adapted over the years?
The pace of change has been incredible – technology, communication, customer expectations. But we have maintained our balance by combining innovation with tradition. We use modern tools to optimize our work, but never forget that law is still about trust. This means listening, understanding and being present. Technology can help, but human connection remains at the heart of everything we do.
What challenges are law firms facing today that you might not have expected?
Maintaining the balance between efficiency and empathy. The modern customer expects speed and transparency, but also needs security. We strive to meet both needs without compromising on quality. Another challenge is attracting the next generation of lawyers who not only want to succeed but also want to serve. We spend a lot of time mentoring and teaching that success in the legal profession is based on patience, ethics and teamwork.
Coogan Smith, LLP has a history spanning nearly eight decades. What lessons from that past still guide you?
Consistency and integrity. We have learned that reputation is not built overnight; it is earned through small, consistent 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 think the company’s role in the community will evolve in the coming years?
We will continue to expand our areas of activity, but our local presence will always be the focus. The next generation of partners values service – not just for customers, but for causes that strengthen this region. We want to be known not only as excellent lawyers, but also as contributing to the well-being of our cities and communities.
If you could summarize the company’s philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?
“Do good work. Treat people well. Give back more than you take.” Our founders believed in this and we still live by it today.
