After an extraordinary 51-year legal career, we extend our deepest congratulations to Attorney Peter C. Herbst as he retires from active legal practice. Peter joined the Law Offices of James A. Welcome as Of Counsel in September of 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the practice of real estate law and land use law. Throughout his career, Peter has been a pillar in the Connecticut legal community, particularly in Litchfield County, where he was born, raised, and educated. His extensive legal knowledge has been an invaluable asset not only to our firm but also to countless real estate brokers, attorneys, and clients over the years.
Peter’s legacy is built on decades of service to his clients, including as many as three generations of some families who trusted him for their legal needs. His reputation for fairness, integrity, and sound legal representation earned him the trust and confidence of both clients and colleagues. For over 30 years, Peter and his staff Laura Lemieux and Maria Hill practiced at 365 Prospect Street in Torrington, a space that has long been synonymous with his practice and commitment to his community.
Throughout his career, Peter has seen many changes in the practice of law, particularly in real estate. From the introduction of new technologies to evolving regulations and legal issues, Peter has always remained adaptable, while never losing sight of the core values that have defined his work: personalized attention, trust, and results. These values align closely with our firm’s mission, making Peter’s contributions to our law firm particularly impactful and lasting.
Throughout his 51-year career, Peter has significantly shaped Connecticut’s legal landscape, particularly in land use and zoning law. As a 51-year member of the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and an active participant in its Planning and Zoning Section, where he also served on the Executive Committee, Peter’s work has left a lasting mark on the legal community. His involvement in key land use cases and his civic contributions, including many years of service on the Torrington Development Commission which included chairing the Committee charged with crafting the City’s Municipal Development Plan (MDP), reflect his commitment to both the profession and the communities he served. Earning recognition as a Super Lawyers New England honoree in Land Use & Zoning further underscores the impact of his legal insight in Connecticut.
As Peter steps away from the daily practice of law, his impact will continue to be felt at the Law Offices of James A. Welcome. His commitment to his clients and thoughtful approach to the practice of law has set a strong example for us to follow. As Peter transitions into this next phase of life effective November 15th, 2024, we offer our heartfelt thanks for his many years of dedication and service. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement, knowing that his remarkable career has left an enduring impact on all of us. Although he will be missed in the office, we look forward to serving clients with the same integrity and dedication that Peter has demonstrated throughout his distinguished career. Thank you, Peter!