Brown Paindiris & Scott (BPS Lawyers), a Glastonbury-based law firm, has announced a partnership with UConn Athletics as a full-service law partner. The firm will provide legal counsel and support for the university's athletics programs, with an emphasis on student development and community engagement.
"We are happy to officially be a part of the support system for the Huskies and their student athletes," said firm Partner Nick Paindiris, a UConn graduate. "Whether it's helping the program navigate legal matters or setting up protections to reflect the needs of future generations, this partnership will allow us to make a meaningful impact."
The partnership comes amid significant changes in NCAA policies. Recent reforms have eliminated restrictions on the number of times academically eligible student-athletes can transfer, allowing multiple transfers without losing eligibility provided they maintain good academic standing. Additionally, NCAA rules now grant student-athletes greater autonomy over their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), enabling commercial activities without jeopardizing eligibility. These shifts create complexities in credit transfer, eligibility, and academic progression, areas where BPS Lawyers' expertise will be valuable.
As full-service law partner, BPS Lawyers will assist UConn Athletics with compliance support, contract reviews, general counsel services, and more. The partnership could also lead to opportunities for student-athletes to explore pre-law pathways, scholarships, and mentorship programs. Multiple attorneys at BPS Lawyers are UConn graduates.
"If this partnership somehow also helps inspire current student athletes to explore pre-law tracks and opportunities in our field, that'd also be a great result," said Ian Butler, another Partner at the firm. "The focus and discipline that athletes need to be successful in their sport translates pretty well to the legal field. Common undergraduate programs that can be great pre-law tracks include political science, history, economics, English, and philosophy. Basically anything that helps develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills."
Founded in 1977, BPS Lawyers provides legal experience in criminal defense, personal injury, family law, real estate law, and insurance disputes. The firm is committed to supporting the local community through skilled representation and partnerships like this one with UConn Athletics.
