Dentons has named Chad Higgins managing partner of its Portland office, succeeding Andrew Helman, who has led the office since it opened in 2022.
Higgins joined Dentons in 2024 and represents clients in the state and federal courts across the country in products liability and mass tort matters, with a focus on environmental litigation. He also advises companies in the consumer products and food and beverage sectors on regulatory and compliance matters.
Prior to joining Dentons, Higgins was a litigator and former partner at Portland law firm Bernstein Shur.
Higgins received his bachelor’s degree from Colby College and his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center.
“I am honored to build on the strong foundation Andrew established during his tenure as office managing partner,” said Higgins. “Our Portland office has tremendous momentum, and I look forward to supporting my colleagues as we continue driving growth, deepening client relationships and further strengthening our presence across the region.”
Helman, a partner in Dentons’ restructuring, insolvency and bankruptcy practice, joined the firm in 2021. The office has since grown to 13 lawyers.
“I am proud of what our team has built together in just four years and excited about where we are heading,” said Helman. “This is the right time for Chad to lead the office. We are in great hands with his passion and vision for what’s next for the office.”
Keith Bice, Indianapolis-based managing partner for Dentons, credited Helman with helping establish the firm’s presence in Maine and said Higgins will lead the office into its next phase of growth.
About Dentons
Dentons ranks No. 20 among the state’s largest law firms in the 2025 Mainebiz Book of Lists, based on Maine-based attorneys. The firm has 10 Maine attorneys.
