Q&A with Robert "Bobby" Rudolph
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Q&A
Q&A with Robert "Bobby" Rudolph
Robert “Bobby” Rudolph, a partner with the firm of Rudolph Friedmann LLP in Boston, represents individuals and businesses in complex commercial litigation matters. His cases involve issues related to business, employment, real estate and construction. Bobby is a trusted advisor on pre-litigation issues, regularly appears in court and has successfully resolved a range of matters through alternative dispute resolution.
In addition to general corporate disputes, Rudolph litigates highly contentious shareholder disputes between owners of closely held businesses. His clients rely on him to counsel them through claims involving breach of contract, corporate opportunity and fraud and freeze-out, often with millions of dollars and control of well-known companies on the line.
Q: Before becoming an attorney, what was your first job?
A: During college, I worked in the customer development center for one of New England’s largest car dealerships. We handled all phone and internet leads for the company’s 25-plus dealerships. It taught me how to sell and the importance of being responsive to customers. I closed more sales than many of the full-time career salespeople. It was a great college job, and that sales experience still proves helpful today. I also worked at Boston Private Bank as an intern in its investment management and commercial lending groups.
Q: What motivated you to pursue a legal career?
A: I thought law would be a good background for any business career. During my first year of law school, I won awards in both oral advocacy and legal writing. I ended up enjoying both and decided I wanted to practice law.
An avid golfer, Bobby is pictured teeing off on the spectacular 18th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links, traditionally rated as one of the top courses in the world.
Q: Who was your chief mentor and how did he or she influence your career?
A: I’m lucky that I have had several great mentors in my life. My grandfather taught me the importance of being a gentleman. He was known for his kindness, and he always put family first. I have also been extremely fortunate to work alongside my dad – Jim Rudolph – and his longtime partner, Jon Friedmann, for the past 11 years. My dad is one of the hardest working people I know, but he also likes to have fun. I think my work hard, play hard mentality probably comes from him. Jon Friedmann has been instrumental in my career and is a great mentor. He is an excellent attorney and took me under his wing when I was straight out of law school.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A: My dad has always said that your reputation is all that you have. Although I often did not agree when I was younger, I can now admit he was right. Do everything you possibly can to protect your reputation.
Q: What is one thing you would like to learn to do?
A: I’d like to learn to be a better chess player. My wife and I watched “Queen’s Gambit” and then got into playing chess more often. I think I’m ready to expand my competition beyond my wife and 9-year-old nephew.
Married in 2022, Bobby with his wife Amanda.
Robert "Bobby" Rudolph
Q: What is your proudest career achievement?
A: My proudest career achievement is becoming a partner at Rudolph Friedmann LLP. Although I had several college and law school jobs, when I joined the firm, I was straight out of law school and the managing partner’s son. I worked hard to earn the respect of my colleagues, and I think any one of them would vouch for my work ethic and knowledge of the law today. It’s really rewarding to now be a part of firm management and to have the ability to help shape the firm’s future.
Q: What other career path might you have chosen?
A: I love to cook. If I had not become a lawyer, I could see myself being a cook or restaurant owner. I try to eat healthy during the week so that I can let loose on the weekends. Even if I get home late from the office, I find it relaxing to try out a new recipe and get joy out of seeing others enjoy the results.
Q: What is your favorite famous or inspirational quote?
A: It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.
Q: What do you do to give back to your community?
A: I am very involved with the Anti-Defamation League, which is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. ADL’s mission is to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias. I serve on the New England Regional Board and its nominating committee. I am also Vice Chair of ADL’s regional Law Enforcement Committee which is comprised of board members and diverse law enforcement leaders from around the region, including local, state and federal officials. We work on training, education, and engagement, and partner with law enforcement on hate crime response and other community projects.
Q: Can you share a positive referral experience within Primerus™?
A: My neighbor knocked on my door one day and asked if I could represent her in the sale of some real estate she owned in Florida. I referred her to Widerman Malek. They did such a great job that my neighbor left a gift card for me to a restaurant in a Boston because she was so thankful for the excellent referral!
Q: What is your most treasured material possession?
A: My grandfather played a big role in my life. He was a self-made real estate developer. Family was his number one priority and we were lucky to spend a lot of time together. He used a golf club shaped tool to open his mail – it was always on his desk. When he passed away, my grandmother gave it to me. I use it daily. It reminds me of him, to work hard and to spend time with family and friends – playing golf!
Q: What is your happiest childhood memory?
A: We spent a lot of time skiing as a family. We usually went to Killington, Vermont or out west and always had a great time. My mom would pick us up at school and then we would meet my dad who came from the office. He would bring a bag of fresh chocolate chip cookies for us from a store called the Chip Yard at Boston’s historic Quincy Market. I’m not sure how my parents entertained three kids for the long car rides to the mountains without iPads, but I’ll always remember those weekend trips.
Q: What is the most awe-inspiring place you have visited?
A: I’ve been lucky to have traveled all around the world. It’s hard to pick one, but contenders for the top three would be: (1) Jerusalem, a place with so much history and significance to so many different people; (2) the Great Barrier Reef, breathtaking views and incredibly clear water; and (3) Venice, which is so unique.
Q: What are your favorite leisure time pursuits?
A: I’m an avid skier, golfer and boater. I love to be outside whenever possible and to be active. I also love to cook, and especially to barbecue in the summer.
Q: Who is on your guest list for the ideal dinner party?
A: Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, and Justin Thomas. I think they would be fun dinner guests and maybe I could learn something about my golf game from them.
Q: What are the top three items on your bucket list?
A: Argue before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. Visit all the continents (two to go). Hit a hole-in-one.
