After more than a decade of dedicated leadership within the Professional Liability Defense Federation (PLDF), WSHB White Plains Managing Partner Michelle Arbitrio will be installed as the organization's president during its 2026 Annual Meeting. The event will take place September 23-25, at the Hyatt Regency Boston.
Arbitrio assumes the presidency following years of distinguished service to PLDF, a national organization of attorneys and insurance claims professionals dedicated to defending professional liability claims across a broad range of professions. Throughout her tenure, she has served as president-elect, chief diversity officer, secretary, treasurer, member of the board of directors, chair of the Insurance Agents and Brokers Committee, and co-chair of the Nuclear Verdicts Committee.
As president, Arbitrio will lead PLDF's mission of advancing the defense of professional liability claims through education, collaboration, and thought leadership. She will work alongside the organization's members to foster the exchange of ideas and promote excellence in defending claims involving lawyers, accountants, insurance brokers, consultants, architects, engineers, and other professionals.
"It is an incredible honor to serve as president of an organization that has been such an important part of my professional journey," said Arbitrio. "PLDF has built an exceptional community of attorneys, insurers, and claims professionals who are committed to advancing the practice of professional liability defense. I look forward to working alongside our members to continue fostering collaboration, delivering meaningful education, and strengthening our profession."
An accomplished trial and appellate attorney, Arbitrio represents clients in complex litigation in state and federal courts throughout New York and Connecticut. She also serves as national trial counsel and national coordinating counsel for clients nationwide, overseeing state and federal litigation, multidistrict litigation, FINRA arbitrations, and class actions. Nationally recognized for her work in professional liability and employment matters, Arbitrio's strategic approach to high exposure matters has earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor and skilled advocate.
"Michelle's installation as PLDF president reflects the confidence and respect she has earned from colleagues across the country," said WSHB Founding Partner Stephen Henning. "Her outstanding litigation experience, thoughtful leadership, and longstanding commitment to PLDF make her exceptionally well suited to guide the organization to its next chapter. We are thrilled to see her take on this important national leadership role."
Arbitrio's installation marks another milestone in a career dedicated to excellence in litigation, leadership, and service to the legal profession. WSHB congratulates her on this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to the positive impact she will make as president of PLDF.
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of over 500 lawyers across 43 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 41 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.
