Connecticut-based Day Pitney, nearly 300 lawyers strong, has expanded its presence into Rhode Island by merging with Providence trusts and estates boutique Howland Evangelista Kohlenberg.

The deal includes eight attorneys led by name partners Renée A. R. Evangelista and A. Max Kohlenberg, joining Day Pitney's individual clients department, which now grows to nearly 80 attorneys. The combined firm is retaining all of Howland Evangelista Kohlenberg's personnel, as well as an existing office in Providence. Evangelista will be the managing partner of the Providence office.