Hodgson Russ LLP Strengthens Future with Appointment of Three New Partners

Hodgson Russ LLP is proud to announce the elevation of Andrew G. Besch, John T. M. DiMaio, Ph.D., and Andrew D. Drilling to Partner as of January 1, 2026.

Besch is a member of the firm’s Trusts & Estates Practice and advises high-net-worth individuals, families, and closely held businesses on sophisticated estate, succession, and tax planning. He is widely recognized for his expertise in cross-border tax and estate matters, particularly for Canadian and international clients with U.S. connections. Besch also counsels clients on complex trust and estate administrations and provides advanced domestic planning strategies to minimize federal and state estate and gift taxes. Known for his creative and thoughtful approach, Besch navigates some of the most intricate tax concepts to deliver tailored solutions for his clients.

“Andrew’s ability to simplify complex tax and estate issues, both domestic and international, is a tremendous advantage for our clients,” said Trusts & Estates Practice Leader Catherine Eberl. “His understanding of international planning challenges enables him to deliver solutions that are both practical and strategic. We’re proud of his elevation to the partnership, and we know that it will strengthen our ability to continue to provide sophisticated cross-border tax advice for decades to come.”

DiMaio is an attorney in the Intellectual Property Practice and concentrates on the preparation and prosecution of patent applications. His work spans a range of scientific disciplines, including organic, bioorganic, supramolecular, and peptide chemistry; peptidomimetics; small molecule synthesis; self-assembling systems; hydrogels; pharmaceuticals; chemical processes; and analytical methods. DiMaio’s doctoral research focused on the synthesis and characterization of small molecules, peptides, and biofunctional supramolecular compounds, giving him a strong foundation for translating complex science into strategic IP solutions.

“John’s deep scientific expertise sets him apart,” said Intellectual Property Practice Leader Nathaniel Lucek. “His ability to translate complex chemistry and biotechnology concepts into strong patent strategies gives our clients a distinct advantage in protecting their innovations. His promotion positions him to further help our clients and grow our practice.”

As a member of the Labor & Employment Practice, Drilling guides international and multi-state organizations through the complexities of U.S. employment laws while helping employers establish and expand operations with confidence. He provides clients with practical, business-oriented strategies to manage employment law issues, from drafting employment agreements and safeguarding trade secrets to enforcing restrictive covenants, ensuring wage and hour compliance, resolving worker classification concerns, and addressing discrimination claims. He also advises clients on employment considerations in mergers and acquisitions.

“Andy’s ability to anticipate employment challenges and deliver practical, business-focused solutions is invaluable to our clients,” said Labor & Employment Practice Leader Jeffrey Swiatek. “His experience with multi-state and international employment issues gives organizations confidence in navigating complex regulations. As a Partner, he will play a key role in shaping the future of our Labor & Employment Practice.”

"Andrew Besch, John DiMaio, and Andrew Drilling exemplify the quality, specialization, and dedication to client service that make partners at Hodgson Russ sought after and successful,” said Managing Partner Benjamin Zuffranieri Jr. “They are exceptional attorneys who will be instrumental in advancing our service offerings and driving the firm forward. Each will play an important role in strengthening Hodgson Russ as a leading law firm in the United States, Canada, and beyond.”

Besch, DiMaio, and Drilling serve clients from the firm’s Buffalo office, with Besch also working from the firm’s New York City and Toronto offices, and DiMaio from both Rochester offices.

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About Hodgson Russ LLP:

Hodgson Russ LLP is an Am Law 200, New York-based full-service law firm with more than 230 attorneys serving individuals, public companies, privately held businesses, governmental entities, and nonprofit institutions from its offices strategically placed in key markets along the East Coast of the United States and Canada, from Toronto to Palm Beach, Florida. To learn more, visit www.hodgsonruss.com.

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