Mission & History

Ventura Law Grew From the Strong Foundation Established by Americo Ventura, its Founding Partner, when he Began Practicing Law in 1957

Ventura, raised by Portuguese immigrants, spoke the same language as many of his early clients. But his connection to them went deeper than that. Ventura understood the challenges his clients faced navigating an unknown legal system, and he appreciated their culture and values.

No clients were turned away for lack of money. Those without means bartered for Ventura’s assistance with homemade goods and services. Practicing law in this way, Ventura became a vital part of the community, and a trusted adviser to thousands of Portuguese and Spanish-speaking immigrants.

Continuing a commitment to reflect the community it serves, Ventura Law was a pioneer in bringing diversity to the local legal profession.


Ventura Law hired the city’s first female attorney, Diane Ventura (Diane Anderson), in the early 1960s. An accomplished advocate, she received state-wide acclaim for her legal ability and dedication to the Connecticut civil justice system.

In 1969, Ventura Law was fortunate to add to its growing practice the city’s first African-American attorney, Thomas G. West, who later became a superior court judge and served on the Connecticut Court of Appeals.

In the decades that followed, Ventura Law transitioned from a local to a national law firm. Agostinho Ribeiro, also a child of Portuguese immigrants, opened Ventura Law’s World Trade Center office in 1989, expanding the firm’s personal injury practice to include complex litigation in federal courts across the United States.

In addition to litigating personal injury claims in Connecticut courts, Ventura Law is involved in numerous high-profile legal proceedings: against British Petroleum, perpetrator of the world’s worst environmental oil disaster; against General Motors, the automaker that manufactured — then covered up — a defective ignition switch that caused the death of drivers and injured many more; and against pharmaceutical companies for injuries caused by harmful medications.

Today, Ventura Law has 12 attorneys working in four offices in Connecticut and New York, its growth made possible by the simple but powerful values established by its founder 60 years ago. If you are in need of an experienced law firm, contact us today.