Moves:
UK & Ireland
Ashurst adds litigation partner from Corrs
Ashurst stated in a statement that Felicity Healy’s hiring is a “significant step” for the expansion of the company’s disputes and investigations practice.
Private equity real estate specialist joins Simmons as partner
Oliver S. Jacob, a renowned private equity real estate partner, has joined Simmons & Simmons, bolstering the firm’s UK Corporate, Real Estate, and Private Equity areas.
John Goldfinch joins Allen & Overy to enhance structured finance and private capital offering
Allen & Overy today announces it is bolstering the global structured finance practice as partner John Goldfinch joins ahead of merger with Shearman & Sterling, to become A&O Shearman.
Kane Tuohy welcomes senior associate Triona Cody
Triona Cody has joined the employment and litigation department of Kane Tuohy LLP as a senior associate.
DLA Piper appoints Kathi Ó Riain as real estate partner
Kathi Ó Riain has been named as a partner in DLA Piper’s real estate division, a global legal company.
EMEA
Latham Makes Riyadh its Regional HQ as Saudi Arabia Lures Businesses with Perks
The company was one of the first to sign up for the scheme, which offers a range of incentives and discounts to encourage foreign companies to designate the Kingdom as their regional headquarters.
Freshfields Hires Hogan Lovells’ Global Energy Transition Head
Stefan Schröder is situated in Dusseldorf, Germany, and provides investors and large energy infrastructure operators in Europe with advice on the nation’s regulations regarding renewable and low-carbon fuels.
APAC
Simmons & Simmons Hires in Private Funds Head in Hong Kong
In the US, Jeffrey Friedenberg has held positions at Kirkland & Ellis, Latham & Watkins, Blackstone, and Pathway Capital Management.
Simmons & Simmons Boosts Disputes Team in Singapore, DLA Piper Adds to Seoul
While Terence Seah from Stephenson Harwood is joining Simmons & Simmons in Singapore, DLA Piper has appointed Milbank counsel Brian Youn as a partner in South Korea.
KWM Bolsters Employment Team with Partner from Australian Firm
Cilla Robinson arrives to KWM from Clayton Utz.
Pinsent Masons Hires Veteran Energy Lawyer David Clinch from Shearmans
David Clinch, who had worked for nearly thirty years at Herbert Smith Freehills, became a partner at Shearman & Sterling.
Hunton Andrews Kurth Takes Two Senior Partners from Korea’s Big Six Lee & Ko
Edward Kim and Nelson Ahn have relocated to the US from Seoul.
Haiwen Takes Another Partner From Linklaters’ China Affiliate
Eric Liu, Zhao Sheng’s previous managing partner, was also recently employed by Haiwen.
The Americas
Orrick, Cooley Boost DC Offices With Litigation Partner Hires
Orrick has brought in ITC trial lawyer Josh Pond from Crowell, meanwhile Cooley has hired Susanne Grooms as a litigation partner from Kaplan Hecker & Fink to start a congressional investigation practice board in D.C.
Freshfields Continues Private Funds Growth with Top New York Partner Hire
Ivet Bell is joining the firm from Sidley Austin and will bring a wealth of experience across fund formation, secondaries transactions and GP stakes deals.
Hiring Paul Weiss Bankruptcy Partner, Selendy Gay Targets Bankruptcy-Related Litigation
Kelley Cornish, a member of Paul Weiss’ management committee, will arrive at the firm next week.
Seeking Less Rate Pressure, Baker Botts Labor and Employment Head Moves to Bradley
Jennifer Trulock, a Baker Botts partner in Dallas who was chair of Baker Botts’ labor and employment practice, said Bradley Arant Boult Cummings gives her opportunity to lower her rates.
Weber Gallagher Snags Vaughan Baio Leader in Bid to Broaden Litigation Portfolio
Madeline Baio’s current work in commercial litigation on behalf of transportation companies sits outside of the firm’s primary focus on general liability.
Thompson Hine Names Former Ohio State Basketball Captain as Next Managing Partner
Anthony White will become one of a short list of African Americans who are currently leading an Am Law 200 firm.
White & Case Lands SEC Crypto Leader and Paul Hastings Real Estate Finance Partner
The new additions include John Cahill, who was previously the head of Paul Hastings’ real estate finance practice department, and Ladan Stewart, who oversaw the SEC’s crypto and cyber litigation team.
Holland & Knight Hires Away Real Estate Capital Markets Partner From Jones Walker in Miami
Christopher Ezell has been appointed as the second partner in the real estate capital markets group this year alone.
On the Move: Seyfarth Adds BCLP Real Estate Partner To Growing Practice in Atlanta
Am Law 100 firm Seyfarth Shaw has welcomed Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner’s Angela Hsu as a partner in its Atlanta office as it continues to expand and broaden its real estate practice.
Skadden Nabs Latham Cap Markets Partner
Brian Paulson works with investment banks and others on IPOs, private offerings and debt and equity securities. Like his former firm, Skadden has strong relationships with those entities.
DLA Piper Adds Project Finance Partner in Brazil
After working at Allen & Overy for almost ten years, Bruno Soares will divide his time between São Paulo and New York.
Greenberg Traurig Lands Two Real Estate Shareholders With Niche Focuses, Growing Depth
West Palm Beach-based Adam Seligman showed up from Ward Damon a local boutique. Morgan Lewis is the source of Paul Williams, who divides his time between Austin and Los Angeles.
In-House
GC of FTD Takes Legal Reins of Newly Independent Weather Co.
David Strauss has been appointed head of legal at The Weather Co., which is the company that runs The Weather Channel app and website, by its new owner. He has served as general counsel for three different privately held companies.
Ibotta Hires Longtime In-House Leader to Plot $2B IPO
David Shapiro will serve as the first chief legal officer of the company, which helps major brands provide rewards and rebates to consumers.
HP Enterprise Swiftly Fills General Counsel Opening
Longstanding in house counsel David Antczak has been promoted to General Counsel by Hewlett Packard Enterprise.
Former JCPenney General Counsel Joins Banged-Up Powersports Retailer
Brandy Treadway, spent a decade at JCPenney but is now taking on a new opportunity as part of a new leadership team aiming to win over investors frustrated by losses and other setbacks.
FBI names fourth GC in six years as deputy GC handed top job
Jason Jones will hand over the legal reins to Bradley Brooker at the US law enforcement agency.
Lloyd’s of London Appoints First New GC in 27 Years
With Peter Spires resigning in August 2023 after 27 years in the position, Claire Schrader has been chosen the insurance giant’s acting general counsel.
Team Moves
Simpson Thacher Hires 5-Lawyer Bank M&A, Regulatory Team From Skadden
Sven Mickisch, Brian Christiansen, Bao Nguyen, Matt Nemeroff and Tim Gaffney will join Simpson as partners in its New York and Washington, D.C., offices from Skadden, Simpson said Tuesday. They are focused on transactional and regulatory matters in the financial services space.
Kirkland Strikes Back in Paul Weiss Talent Battle, Also Adding Weil and Sidley Partners
On Wednesday, Kirkland announced the arrival of Paul Sandler, a partner in debt finance from Paul Weiss, together with two real estate tax lawyers from Weil Gotshal and an insurance M&A partner.
Former Eckert Seamans Trio Returns to Firm, Citing New Leadership
Litigators Amy Roy, Ray Middlemanand Shane Valenzi left for Baltimore-based Whiteford, Taylor & Preston in 2022, but Eckert CEO Scott Cessar, who started in the role last May, successfully recruited them back.
Allen & Overy Hires 5-Lawyer Milbank London Team Ahead of Merger
The team is led by partner John Goldfinch. He is joined by senior associates Peter West, Adrian Kwok, Eleanor Cripps and Alexandra Wells.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—Feb. 20, 2024—Faye Riva, Knox McLaughlin
Attorney James W. Cushing was appointed as vice president of the Christian Legal Clinics of Philadelphia on Feb. 5.
People in the News—Feb. 21, 2024—Barley Snyder, Rawle & Henderson
Partner Luke Weber was elected vice president of the Lancaster Bar Association’s board of directors, Barley Snyder announced.
DLA Piper Elects Managing Partner—Incumbent to Step Down After 10 Years
In January 2025, corporate partner Charles Severs will take over as international managing partner, replacing outgoing Simon Levine.
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has appointed Tess Kelly, former Bank of England Deputy General Counsel to expand its financial services regulation team.
Senior Boeing Attorney Steps In to HR Chief Role as Contentious Labor Talks Loom
legal recruiter Deborah Ben-Canaan described Amuluru’s move to human resources as being “great training to someday sit in the GC seat,”.
People in the News—Feb. 23, 2024—Unruh Turner, Swartz Campbell
Attorney Ryan M. Jennings has been named chair of the Chester County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers’ Division (YLD) for 2024, according to a release from Unruh Turner Burke & Frees.
Latham & Watkins makes up 19 counsel to partner in latest promotions round
Compared to the 23-person group from the previous year, Latham & Watkins has promoted 19 counsel to its partnership.
London insurance giant Lloyd’s appoints interim GC on permanent basis
Claire Schrader is taking over the position from Peter Spires, who stepped down from the role last August
Nuala Egan SC appointed chair of Legal Aid Board
CEO of the Legal Aid Board, Joan Crawford stated that: “We are delighted to welcome Nuala as our new chairperson.
Eversheds Sutherland appoints Seán Scally as head of energy
Seán Scally has been named head of energy and commercial partner at the Dublin office of international law firm Eversheds Sutherland.
Mergers & Alliances:
Sacramento Play Gives Am Law 200 Firms Its Third Merger This Year
The firm previously acquired all lawyers from Sullivan Hill Rez & Engel effective Feb. 1, the same day as its combination with Seattle-based Savitt Bruce & Willey.
JMK Solicitors names NI Hospice as 2024 charity partner
JMK Solicitors, a personal injury law company in Northern Ireland, has selected NI Hospice & Children’s Hospice as its 2024 charity partner.
Office Openings & Closing:
‘Literally Nothing Walkable’: Why Gibson Dunn Moved to Downtown Palo Alto
The firm departed from an office park on Page Mill Road to look for a location near the homes of some attorneys and within several blocks of a train for others.
Tucker Ellis Opens in North Jersey With Laterals From Riker Danzig
The Cleveland-based Am Law 200 firm plans to open an office in Morristown in the coming days as well establishing a new one in Atlanta in the spring.
Shook Launches New Practice to Advise Clients on DEI Issues
The managing partner of the Houston office and litigation partner John Lewis Jr. oversees Shook, Hardy & Bacon’s new multidisciplinary DEI counseling, compliance, and disputes practice.
Plaintiff Firm Pogust Goodhead Sets Up in Australia
Launches a Sydney office in an effort to pursue mining giant BHP.
Japan’s Big Four Firm Mori Hamada Launches Fifth New Outfit in 12 Months
Mori Hamada & Matsumoto a Big Four Japanese firm has launched an office in Yokohama, its fifth new outfit in less than 12 months.
Patterson + Sheridan Launches Office in Aerospace-Heavy Huntsville, Alabama
The Marshall Space Flight Center is located in Huntsville, where Patterson + Sheridan just launched its eighth office. This is an area where the technology and intellectual property firm sees potential.
Pa. Firms Seek Efficiency, Amenities in New Office Spaces
Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are currently witnessing similar-sized office buildings, a dedication to office sharing, and wellness-focused amenity areas.
Financials:
Faegre Drinker Rebounds From 2022 With Double-Digit PEP Growth
Gina Kastel, who is close to completing her first year in the role of chair stated that “We saw these huge gains in litigation, including product liability, intellectual property, class actions, appellate work,”.
Bradley Arant Sees Revenues Rise and PEP Fall Amid 12% Equity Partner Expansion
The company’s PEP decreased by 5% to $820,000 as its equity tier increased and its nonequity tier contracted by 9%, defying the industry norm of the nonequity tiers increasing.
Quinn Emanuel’s 38% PEP Growth Came From Heightened Leverage, High-Profile Cases
Michael Carlinsky, one of the three co-managing partners at the firm, estimates that contingency fees accounted for about 8% of the company’s $2.07 billion in sales.
McDermott Sees 13% PEP Rise as Revenue Continues Steady Growth
Ira Coleman, the chair of McDermott, noted that although the company’s revenue growth was not as strong as it has been in previous years, the concept of “institutional health” was the main focus.
Garrigues Hits €454M Revenue as Firm Charts 10 Years of Growth
Despite this development, the firm’s growth trajectory has slowed, with leaders arguing that the cause is down to a ‘global geopolitical crisis and political and institutional instability’.
Amid Partnership Expansion, Paul Hastings Sees Double-Digit Boost in Profits and RPL
Paul Hastings’ equity tier grew by 2% meanwhile its nonequity tier surged by 14%.
Revenue Up 11.2%, PEP Up 22.1% at Akin, as Aggressive Hiring Pays Off
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld’s record year, according to chairperson Kim Koopersmith, is the result of deliberate recruiting in crucial procedures.
Norton Rose Fulbright ups London NQ salary to £120k
The raise will comes into fruition on the 1st of April and will be a 14% increase on the previous £105k.
Technology & Innovation:
Ethics v. Efficiency: Balancing Public Policy in AI-Powered Arbitration
Questions have arisen as to whether AI-driven international arbitration is appropriate under international law, and if it is not, how can it achieve legitimacy? Experts argue that as we embrace these new technologies, we must tread carefully, considering their broader ethical and societal implications, but not so carefully as to reject the opportunities they offer.
Thomson Reuters Expands CoCounsel Core to Canada and Australia
Following its US commencement in the Autumn of 2023, Thomson Reuters has decided to deliver the CoCounsel Core generative AI legal assistant to its first two English-speaking international markets.
E-Discovery Technology and Innovation Winner, Law Firm: Morgan, Lewis & Bockius
Scott Milner, Global Leader, eData Practice at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius stated that “As technology changes, so do ways in which clients do business and we need to follow suit. But you have be wise enough not to change for change’s sake or apply a new technology simply because it is new”.
Could Africa Leapfrog Other Regions on Legal Technology, Like it Did With Mobile Phones?
Some think the continent has a chance to grow faster, similar to how mobile phone adoption occurred, although there may be problems due to a lack of data and the size of law firms.
South Korea’s LG Chem Adopts Luminance AI to Enhance Contracting Work
The first company in Korea to use Luminance’s corporate product is LG Chem.
5 Interesting AI Use Cases in the Legal Industry
Panellist’s at the UnitedLex webinar “Exploring AI: An In-Depth Discussion of Real-Life Legal Use Cases,” discuss the most practical applications of AI across the legal landscape.
Spanish Law Firm Pérez-Llorca on Why a Swedish Gen AI Assistant Was the Right Fit
Earlier this month, Perez-Llorca became the first law office in Spain to use Leya, a Swedish generative AI assistant. For the company, the solution provided the ideal mix between GDPR compliance and the ability to conduct business in Spanish.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Meet the Female Founders of Legal Tech
Legaltech News has created an evolving list of female and gender fluid founders who have created products and launched companies in the legal technology space.
Championing Diversity in Tech (Individual) Winner, Provider: Catherine Krow, BigHand
Catherine Krow of BigHand said that “‘Business as usual’ is not working for law firms today, and it certainly isn’t able to support a more equitable work culture,”.
Legal Forges Ahead With DE&I Efforts, Despite Backlash
The language around DE&I may not be as prevalent as it was in 2020, but initiatives to combat racial and gender inequality in the legal sector are not only continuing, but also developing.
No Longer Just an HR Matter, DEI Expands to Law Firm Operations
The issue involving artwork in a Duane Morris office and the law firm’s response highlights how the role of DEI professionals in Big Law is expanding to encompass operations and office space in addition to talent concerns.
Market Commentary:
The Risks and Rewards of Becoming a Shareholder
Stuart Pachman of Brach Eichler has written that “Whether one represents the employer or the employee, counsel is wise to consider the legal, tax, and any other consequences that follow when an employee of a corporation or an LLC is to become a co-owner of the entity”.
Law Firm Partners Income Tax Arrangements Come Under Scrutiny in Australia
The employment of a tax system that reduces the amount of tax owed to the government by law firms and their partners is being questioned by senators from Australia.
2024 Layoffs: How to Navigate the Downsizing Trend
An examination of the advantages of contract labor when facing layoffs.
US Firms Benefit as Latin America Capital Markets Activity Roars Back
The companies that are actively helping state and corporate issuers in the region are Cleary Gottlieb, Davis Polk, Shearman, and Simpson Thacher. The current market circumstances are favorable for debt and even some equity offers.
‘One Firm’ or Separate Entities? Vereins’ Growth Bumps Into Conflicts, Liability Concerns
A U.S. appellate court’s decision has cast doubt on Baker McKenzie’s organizational design, coming two years after Dentons was hit with a $32 million malpractice award that also involved the firm’s verein status.
US Law Firm Leasing on Upswing in 2023, Hitting Highest Mark Since 2019
According to the Savills Legal Tenant U.S. Law Firm Activity Report Q4 2023, the top leasing market was New York, and over half of all new leases signed in 2023 were by businesses that were already occupying their property.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Clifford Chance Builds Private Capital Capability with Paul Hastings Partner Hire
The move comes a merely a few months after the firm parted ways with two senior corporate partners.
Gateley recruits corporate finance expert Jose Lazaro
Jose Lazaro, an expert in corporate finance, has joined Gateley Legal as an associate in its Belfast office.
Pinsent Masons appoints corporate partner Paul White in Dublin
Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons is continuing to expand its transactional services group with the appointment of corporate partner Paul White to its Dublin office.
Clifford Chance Builds Private Capital Capability with Paul Hastings Partner Hire
Clifford Chance has hired structured finance partner, Blake Jones from U.S. firm Paul Hastings, as the firm looks to boost its private capital offering.
Reed Smith Adds Fourth McDermott Private Equity Lawyer in Last Nine Months
Tom Whelan has moved from McDermott to Reed Smith in London, at McDermott he was head of the firm’s private equity and corporate transactions group.
Paul Hastings Poaches Latham Partner Duo in London
Litigation partners Stuart Alford KC and Oliver Browne are joining Paul Hastings’ London office.
Trowers hires Farrer & Co’s arbitration head as it wins licence to open in Singapore
The arrival of Hendrik Puschmann occurs as the UK firm finalises its plans to launch in Asia’s premier arbitration hub.
EMEA
DLA Piper’s Nigerian Partner Firm Gets New Leader
DLA Piper added Olajide Oyewole to its African alliance network in 2017.
People in the News—Feb. 16, 2024—Weber Kracht
Weber Kracht and Chellew announced that senior associate Kathryn Liebhaber, has been appointed to the board of directors of Perkasie Pride.
APAC
Clifford Chance Hires Away HSF Private Equity Partner in Singapore
Jamie McLaren has been hired by Clifford Chance; he is a corporate partner with Herbert Smith Freehills who focuses on private equity deals.
Australia’s Hamilton Locke Adds Clifford Chance Veteran and Former Corrs Partner
Tim Grave joins from Clifford Chance where he was a partner for over a decade. He co-led the U.K. firm’s Australian regulatory investigations and financial crime team, he is Sydney based.
Simmons & Simmons Hires in Private Funds Head in Hong Kong
Jeffrey Friedenburg has worked at Pathway Capital Management, Blackstone, Kirkland & Ellis as well as Latham & Watkins in the US.
The Head of gender equality and Commercial litigation partner at Australian firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth Felicity Healy is to leave for Ashurst.
Australia’s Gilbert + Tobin Hires Luke Barrett to Lead Pension Funds Team
Previously, Luke Barrett was the general counsel at Australian pension funds firm UniSuper
The Americas
Morris Nichols’ Bankruptcy & Restructuring Group Adds 2 Attorneys
Morris Nichols Arsht & Tunnell announced the recent additions of Brenna Dolphin and Clint Carlisle to the firm’s bankruptcy and restructuring practice.
People in the News—Feb. 12, 2024—Marshall Dennehey, McNees
Medical malpractice litigator Alyson J. Kirleis has joined Marshall Dennehey’s Pittsburgh office as a shareholder in the health care department.
Skadden and Squire Build DC Partner Ranks With Government Hires
Rejoining Skadden as head of its energy regulatory department is former FERC chair James Danly, meanwhile Squire has hired Bridget McGovern, a former assistant secretary at the Homeland Security Department.
People in the News—Feb. 14, 2024—Rawle & Henderson, Flaster Greenberg
Patrick T. Finnegan joined Rawle & Henderson as a partner in the Philadelphia office.
Weil Private Credit Partner Jumps to Dechert Amid Growing Signs of Transactional Thaw
Four years ago, Eliot Relles joined Weil, Gotshal & Manges after co-chairing the finance practice at Schulte Roth & Zabel.
Clark Hill Adds on Dentons Cohen & Grigsby Real Estate Duo in Pittsburgh
Previously, Blaine Lamperski oversaw the local real estate practice for the multinational company’s Pittsburgh division. Member John Bonaccorsi joins him.
Baker Botts Swells in Texas With Big Law Restructuring, Energy Litigation Partners
Squire Patton Boggs restructuring partner Travis McDavid joined Baker Botts in Dallas and David Applebaum, Jones Day energy litigation partner, joined in Houston, as the firm adds to high-demand practices in Texas.
Former GSK Patent Leader Moves to Troutman Pepper
Duke Fitch started his journey at the company as a medicinal chemist and has risen to vice president of U.S. pharmaceutical patents after earning his law degree.
Reports from the law firm Porzio, Bromberg & Newman have revealed that Dr. Lee Goldsmith and his son Jordan Goldsmith have joined the firm’s Morristown office as of counsel and counsel, respectively, in the personal injury and medical malpractice group.
Adams and Reese Adds Industry Experts to Lead New Aviation Practice
Marc Warren and Paul Alp arrive from Jenner & Block and are based in Washington, D.C.
BakerHostetler Picks Up Private Equity Dealmaker Amid Firm’s M&A ‘Expansion’
Salomon “Sol” Sassoon spent the last thirty years with Morrison & Cohen.
Wilson Turner Kosmo stated that the company welcomed back Loleena Ansari May as a partner in its employment practice group, where she will concentrate on carrying out independent workplace investigations and assessments. Also, Rothman Gordon announced the appointment of Natalia A. Holliday as an associate.
In-House
Former Air Force GC Takes Legal Reins of Airbus-Backed Space Station Startup
In addition to being the former top legal officer of the U.S. Space Force, which defends American and ally interests in space, Thomas Ayres managed 2,600 attorneys while serving as the Air Force’s legal commander.
Longtime Dell Attorney Joins UnitedLex as First GC
CEO James Schellhase commended Renee Meisel, saying she “has built a career simplifying complicated legal issues into business-enabling operational solutions in both startups and global Fortune 500 companies.”
JP Morgan Lawyer Becomes Housebuilder GC as Ashurst Partner Joins Boeing
Kirsten Keegan an associate general counsel of wholesale payments, treasury and securities services and a JP Morgan managing director becomes the first GC of SNG since the company formed as part of a merger in 2023.
Vail Resorts Deputy GC Wins Promotion to Top Job
Julie DeCecco, a longstanding attorney at Sun Microsystems, is the new GC of the company, this companies reach consists of 41 mountain resorts across 15 states and four countries.
US legal data provider UnitedLex hires former Dell lawyer as inaugural GC
Renee Meisel is set to step into the firm’s newly established general counsel function.
Team Moves
Hogan Lovells Hires 23 M&A Lawyers from Orrick in Italy
According to Orrick, the departures, which also include another exit to BonelliErede, are a strategy of the firm’s ambition to offer sector-specific counsel.
Orrick Faces Second Major Blow as 15-Strong Team Joins BonelliErede in Italy
With a 15-person Milan team leaving the company for Italian giant BonelliErede, Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe’s Italian division has experienced its second raid in as many weeks.
Pinsent Masons establishes WHS team with Sparke Helmore hire
Carlie Holt joins the firm as a new partner, she will be accompanied by two other lawyers.
Business Litigation Firm Sees Founding Partner Leave for Spinoff With Pa., NY, NJ Offices
Five lawyers, including one of the former founding partners, left the business litigation firm that was once known as Littleton Park Joyce Ughetta & Kelly. They left the firm and formed P&K Park, a products liability and business litigation boutique with offices in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—Feb. 13, 2024—King Spry, Kleinbard
King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, congratulated attorney Jennifer Bolivar who has been appointed to the board of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of the Lehigh Valley.
Simpson Thacher Appoints First Female London Head
Wheatly MacNamara, a partner within the firm’s real estate practice, will take over from Glover in October.
Dentons UKIME Arm Re-Appoints CEO
Dentons U.K., Ireland and Middle East (UKIME) has re-appointed Paul Jarvis as chief executive officer, commencing his second three-year term on May 1, 2024.
Clifford Chance Appoints New CFO From Consulting Giants Accenture
Daniel Burton is set to take over the role of global CFO in June, after almost 25 years at Accenture.
Gavin MacLaren to Lead Australia’s Corrs Chambers Westgarth Until 2033
Senior Partner and chief executive at Australia’s Corrs Chambers Westgarth, Gavin MacLaren, has been reappointed to the top job for another term.
Mergers & Alliances:
Caution, Merging Ahead: The FTC and DOJ’s New Merger Guidelines
Following months of anticipation, the FTC and Antitrust Division of the DOJ unveiled their new Merger Guidelines on Dec. 18, 2023. More than 30,000 stakeholders offered input on proposed changes to the Guidelines, which were previously updated in 2010.
Australia’s Gilbert + Tobin Acquires Perth Legal Practice
Gilbert + Tobin has acquired a legal practice and two partners in Perth, the latest move by the top-tier Australian firm as it seeks to boost its energy, infrastructure and mining capabilities in Western Australia.
Korea’s Big Six Firm Shin & Kim Launches Alliance with Indonesia’s ARMA Law
Big Six South Korean firm Shin & Kim has committed to a non-exclusive alliance with Indonesian law firm ARMA Law.
Office Openings & Closing:
Opening 2 New Offices, Vaughan Baio Prepares for Aggressive Growth in 2024
The Philadelphia-based litigation defense firm has expanded its footprint into Cherry Hill and Long Island.
Pinsent Masons Launches Flexible Services Business Vario in the Middle East
Vario, Pinsent Masons’ flexible legal services business, has come to the Middle East—11 years after its inception.
Pogust Goodhead to open in Sydney amid multi-billion-dollar BHP class action claim
New Australia office will be led by partners Joshua Carton and Amie Crichton.
Financials:
Despite a drop in demand, the Am Law 50 ended the fourth quarter with almost 8% more fees worked than Q4 2022, according to a recent Thomson Reuters report.
Impressive Gains at Quinn Emanuel, Hogan Lovells, Milbank Suggest a Healthy 2023 for Am Law 100
In regard to early reports, Marci Taylor, a law firm strategy consultant and founder of Mantra Partner said that “It’s interesting to me that those in the top 50 did even better than those in the next 50”.
Hogan Lovells Rebounds in 2023 With Most Profitable Year in History
The global firm brought in $2.68 billion in revenue, which was converted into $2.74 million in profits per equity partner.
Jenner, Looking at ‘Stretch’ Goals, Reached Double-Digit Revenue and Profit Growth
In 2023, Jenner exceeded not only its own revenue goals but also increased PEP by almost 18% despite a 4% decrease in its equity tier.
Hours Down. Revenues Up. What Gives?
The authors of a report issued this week by The Thomson Reuters Institute assert that “Billable hours worked, the market’s favored measure of demand for legal services, is simply becoming a less useful measurement,”.
Steptoe’s Revenue Grew 13% Amid Lateral Expansion and Rising Litigation Demand
Profits per equity partner at the company increased by roughly 16% to $1.91 million even as the ownership tier grew. Furthermore, Steptoe’s revenue per lawyer increased by more than 8% to $1.2 million last year amid lateral growth, with the company’s overall full-time equivalent head count rising by approximately 4% to approximately 396 lawyers.
The Future of Partner Compensation: How Profit-Sharing Systems Shape the Firm’s Culture and Success
Firms like Paul Weiss and Linklaters have to decide on a remuneration system that reflects their culture and strategic objectives.
Akin Gump Revenue and PEP Up Double Digits as Aggressive Hiring Pays Off
Chairperson Kim Koopersmith has stated that the firm’s London office had a “fantastic year” and Akin also performed well in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai, where demand and lawyer head count grew.
Technology & Innovation:
To Implement Gen AI, Lawyers and Large Language Models Go Back to School
Attorneys are being trained by law firms in rapid engineering and data input into LLMs to establish a rapport between the parties.
AI and Hospitality: Transforming Law Firm Workplaces for the Future
It should come as no surprise that workplace experience is a top strategic lever being driven by law firm leaders as the world ushers in a new era post-pandemic of hybrid operations and they reimagine the space their professionals are occupying.
Protecting Technology-Assisted Works and Inventions: Where Does Smart Technology End and AI Begin?
This article explores certain questions. At what point does a “smart” computing system, or advanced software program, qualify as AI in the eyes of pertinent regulatory or judicial authorities? When is an individual considered to have merely deployed an AI-based computing tool to assist with creating a work of art or conceiving of a technological innovation?
Ethical Considerations for Litigators Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Landscape
With AI, the ability to drive massively greater levels of productivity is within reach, but there are risks if the technology is not used properly.
Beyond the Black Box: Unpacking Legal Tech Vendors’ Gen AI Lingo
The terms “customizing,” “training,” and “fine-tuning” that legal technology companies used to characterize their approach to generative AI were deconstructed by data scientists and engineers. These tactics might differ greatly, even though they are sometimes used interchangeably.
Diversity & Inclusion:
AccessLex Grant Program Keeps Focus on Race, Ethnicity Despite Affirmative Action Ruling
The terms “racial” and “ethnic” are being used by AccessLex without hesitation in its definition, despite recent decisions by the US Supreme Court. As per the statement made by Aaron Taylor, the AccessLex Institute’s executive director, “They neither endorsed nor forbidden them.”
Simpson Thacher Appoints First Female London Head, Jason Glover to Step Down
Wheatly MacNamara, a partner within the firm’s real estate practice, will take over from Glover in October. She becomes the firm’s first female London leader, according to a person close to the matter.
Maurice was appointed an A&O partner in 1985 and founded the private client spin-off firm Maurice Turnor Gardner in 2009.
Nixon Peabody Targets 30% Women Equity Partners by 2025, as Firm Hires DEI Leader From Paul Weiss
Ramla Farzad joined as senior director for diversity, equity and inclusion at the end of January.
Market Commentary:
Even With More Competition in DC, These Law Firms Still Have an Edge
Firms in Washington, D.C. claim that their extensive experience in litigation and regulations is helping them to boost earnings, especially in years when transactional work has been less demanding.
The Risks Junior Lawyers Face by Switching Firms Too Soon, and the Benefits of Staying the Course
It’s wise to consider whether committing to career and personal development could provide a more fulfilling route than following the seemingly better opportunity before taking the plunge.
GCs Face Daunting Emerging Risk, Fanned by Global Economic Pessimism and Social Media Algorithms
According to a survey by consulting firm Gartner, “individuals often seek out non-mainstream information sources that align with preexisting beliefs” as public faith in civic institutions falls.
Using Communication Aids in a Law Practice
Although there are some risks associated with using transcription and live captioning services, they can be helpful for attorneys and clients who are having trouble hearing or comprehending information.
Have Transactional Demand Levels Slowed Lateral Partner Hiring?
Despite declining in 2023, partner lateral movements were still strong, according to Law.com Compass statistics. Furthermore, the market remains fragmented, even with regard to lateral hiring.
Freshfields Dominates 2023 Top Corporate Lawyers Ranking
Victoria MacDuff and Robert Cleaver, partners at UK corporate heavyweights Slaughter and May and Linklaters respectively, bagged the top two spots in the list.
Can I Protect Something That I Created Using Artificial Intelligence?
Additionally, the USPTO has released data regarding modern technologies and their effects on copyrighted works and is researching copyright concerns brought up by artificial intelligence. Through December 2023, the office will assess areas that might be addressed by legislative action.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Paul Weiss Continues Rapid London Growth With Another Partner
After being a partner at Ropes & Gray for two years, Annie Herdman is set to join Paul Weiss’ antitrust practice.
Proskauer Lures Sidley’s Investment Funds Head in London
Leading international law firm Proskauer is delighted to welcome James Oussedik to their Private Investment Funds Group in London, James will be arriving as a partner.
Simpson Thacher raids Skadden for London disputes partner
David Edwards is set to co-lead the firm’s European disputes practice alongside Tyler Robinson.
Former Director of Public Prosecutions Sir Max Hill KC joins King & Spalding in London
The former Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of England and Wales, Sir Max Hill KC, has joined top 20 US law firm King & Spalding’s London office as a counsel.
EMEA
Gibson Dunn Hires From Weil Gotshal in Germany
Gibson Dunn is expecting the arrival of Benjamin Rapp in the next few months; however the precise date of arrival is yet to be confirmed.
Norton Rose Fulbright Taps K&L Gates for Antitrust Team in Germany
Jens Steger joined the firm’s Frankfurt office at the start of February as a partner, making the transition from K&L Gates, where he served as a partner since 2021.
Compliance Head at France-Based Luxury Group Kering Leaves For Hughes Hubbard
Gaëlle Thuault has worked worked in-house at energy giant Total and at the European Union Court of Justice. He has also worked at Cleary Gottlieb and Skadden Arps.
White & Case Bolsters Antitrust Practice With Germany Veteran
The appointment of a veteran Düsseldorf-based partner from Gleiss Lutz Hootz Hirsch has helped White & Case to expand its antitrust practice in Germany.
Dentons Welcomes New Partners to Abu Dhabi Corporate Team
Global law firm, Dentons has expanded its corporate practice in Abu Dhabi by welcoming two new partners, Stephen McKenna and Ross Barfoot formerly of Clyde & Co. Both partners officially joined the firm on February 5th. This deliberate move reinforces Dentons’ commitment to meeting the diverse corporate legal needs of the Middle East region.
APAC
Watson Farley Hires Energy Expert, Leaving McDermott With Only 1 Partner in Singapore
With the hiring of Merrick White, a new partner at Watson Farley & Williams, McDermott Will & Emery’s Singapore office now has just one partner remaining in its city-state outfit.
Cuatrecasas Hires Barclays Bank’s Mexico Legal Director
Mariana Campos carries with her a wealth of experience in private banking, capital markets and other financial matters, having also worked at the Mexican stock exchange BIVA and JPMorgan.
Stephenson Harwood Adds Yet Another Hong Kong Corporate Partner
Amy Yu, a mergers and acquisitions and equity capital markets lawyer, has spent almost nine years practicing at Eversheds Sutherland, where she made partner in 2018.
Jean-Denis Marx, who is a Baker McKenzie veteran partner, has joined the boutique Japanese firm Tokyo International Law Office.
The Americas
People in the News—Feb. 5, 2024—Willig Williams, Dailey
Willig, Williams & Davidson a known Labor, employment, workers’ compensation and family law firm has announced that attorney Samuel H. Datlof has joined the firm’s labor law practice group.
Orrick Hires Greenberg Traurig Energy Renewables Shareholder in Chicago
Alejandra Garcia Earley, a shareholder at Greenberg Traurig with expertise in project finance and energy tax equity financings, has become a partner at Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe’s Chicago energy and infrastructure group.
Clifford Chance Lures 2 Partners From Kirkland & Ellis
Ty’Meka M. Reeves-Sobers and Marcia Hook, partners from Kirkland & Ellis, have joined Clifford Chance as the company continues to grow its energy and infrastructure expertise in the United States. They will be based in the firm’s Houston and Washington, D.C., offices, respectively.
Freshfields Hires Global Chief Innovation Officer From Deutsche Bank
Gil Perez, who will work with clients as well as internally throughout the company, will bring more than 25 years of innovative expertise to the position.
Former GC and CEO of Merck Joins Harvard Governing Board, Jumping Into Fray
Kenneth Frazier, a former general counsel at Merck and CEO from 2011 to 2021, will take over a board position while the company works to repair its damaged reputation.
Dechert Partner Who Repped J&J, 3M and BP in High-Profile Trials Moves to Paul Weiss
After working for Dechert for over four years, partner Kimberly Branscome joined Paul Weiss’s Los Angeles office on Saturday, leading the latter company to name new practice heads.
Federal Prosecutor in Georgia Joins Baker Hostetler as It Builds ‘Elite White-Collar Team’
After more than 12 years of service, Jennifer “Jenna” Solari has joined the Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Bracewell Adds High-Profile Federal Judge as a Partner in New York
Judge Roslynn Mauskopf, who left the court at the end of January, became a partner in the government enforcement and investigations practice of Am Law 200 firm Bracewell in New York.
Alston & Bird Partner Heads to Lowenstein as New Data Privacy Chair
Amy Mushahwar has worked at Holland & Knight, Reed Smith, Ballard Spahr and Davis Wright Tremaine.
Calling the Move ‘Irresistible,’ Orrick Trial Partner Jumps to Steptoe
Claudia Wilson Frost, Who was a litigation partner at Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe, said she joined Steptoe’s new Houston office partly because of the large group of trial lawyers there.
McDermott Lands Sports and Entertainment Partner From Venable for Transactions Group
Alexei Cowett had worked at Venable since 2015 and during this time has advised on more than $60 billion in closed transactions across various media.
People in the News—Feb. 7, 2024—Eckert Seamans, Barley Snyder
Laura DelFratte has become a special counsel in the tax, estates, and employee benefits practice of the national legal firm Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, based in Pittsburgh.
Paul Hastings, Further Building Finance Team, Hires Shearman Partner
Paul Hastings, which has been hiring laterals until 2024, has added finance partner Stephen Gruendel from Shearman & Sterling in New York.
People in the News—Feb. 8, 2024—Tucker Arensberg, Blank Rome
Shariane Taylor has joined the business and finance department of Tucker Arensberg as a shareholder attorney.
Head of Mayer Brown’s US Upstream Energy Practice Moves to Hunton Andrews in Houston
Carl von Merz, who became a partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth on Tuesday, will lead the company’s oil and gas practice in the United States.
Baker Botts Adds Orrick Patent Litigators in Texas, California
Robert Benson and Jeffrey Johnson, patent litigators at Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe with a concentration on Taiwan and China, have joined Baker Botts as partners in the intellectual property department.
Johanna Schmitt, a partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, specializes in intellectual property. She joins from Kirkland & Ellis.
A new chair for white collar criminal defense is named by Lowenstein Sandler, Stevens & Lee welcomes a litigation and finance specialist, and there are other changes.
Litigation Boutique Rebrands as Name Partner Joins SDNY Leadership Team
Three former SDNY prosecutors created the company that is now known as Krieger Lewin in 2017, and former AUSA Dan Noble is now joining its ranks.
On the Move: Maynard Nexsen Looks to Rebuild Cybersecurity Team; Taylor English Adds Tax Partner
According to news reported on Wednesday, E. Miller Williams Jr. has moved to Taylor English Duma LLP as a partner in the corporate department in Atlanta.
Midsize Moves: Balch & Bingham Hires Adam and Reese Partner, Constangy Adds CDF Labor Law Partner
Phil Buffington has joined Balch & Bingham as a partner in the banking and financial services group. Meanwhile, Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete has announced the addition of Thomas Song as a partner in the firm’s Orange County, California, office.
In-House
7th-Largest US Foundation Taps Ballard Spahr Partner as GC
Kathryn Krecke is being succeeded by Kahlil Williams as legal chief of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, which has assets of $8.8 billion and focuses on improving the health and well-being of children.
Shein Loses U.S. General Counsel as It Fights Flurry of Litigation, Preps for IPO
Valerie Ho helped Mold the fast-fashion giant’s global legal and compliance structure and was aiding if their efforts to fend off questions about its IP and labour practices as it preps for an IPO.
One of North America’s largest coal producers, Ramaco Resources, has hired West Virginian Evan Jenkins. Evan is a Republican who served in the U.S. House from 2015 to 2018, as general counsel.
Legal Chief Steps Up to Lead Forward Air After Disastrous Acquisition, Ouster of CEO
Interim CEO Michael Hance has been reported as saying. “Forward has been my professional home for the last 18 years, and I am honoured to serve in this important role,”.
Las Vegas Sphere-owner appoints legal chief from dating app Bumble
Laura Franco has been appointed general counsel for both US entertainment and venue firms Madison Square Garden Entertainment (MSGE) and Sphere Entertainment. Jamal Haughton departed the position in November, and Franco takes over as general counsel for both organizations.
Team
Lathrop GPM Expands in Dallas With Ferguson Braswell IP Team
Lathrop GPM expanded its intellectual property team in Dallas with the hiring of four Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta lawyers, filling a strategic priority in the important Texas market.
Fried Frank Hires Goodwin PE Trio in London
Michelle Tong, Christian Iwasko and Priya Rupal have all joined the firm’s private equity practice.
Polsinelli secures 10-strong Maynard Nexsen cybersecurity team
Am Law 100 firm Polsinelli is developing its cybersecurity and data privacy team with the hire of a nine-lawyer group, including four former practice leaders, from Maynard Nexsen.
Arnold & Porter adds six partner team across US from BCLP
The multi-practice team is led by partners Donal O’Brien, Eric Prezant, and Randy Miller. Prezant and O’Brien will join the 1,000-lawyer firm in Chicago alongside partners Karl Marschel and Brandon Neuschafer and counsel Monica Carroll, while Miller joins in Denver and the final partner, James Attonito, joins in New York.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—Feb. 6, 2024—Lamb McErlane, Meyer Unkovic, Sweeney & Sheehan
Sonal Parekh, Lamb McErlane attorney, has been appointed the vice president of law student outreach for the South Asian Bar Association—Philadelphia Chapter (SABA-Philly) for the 2024 term.
Morris James Attorney Appointed to US Bankruptcy Court Local Rules Committee
Morris James announced that Eric Monzo has been appointed to the local rules committee for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, this appointment will be effective from Feb. 1.
Long Island Midmarket Firm Announces New Managing Partner, Leadership Structure
Moritt Hock & Hamroff’s managing partner Marc Hamroff is handing off the reins to Michael Cardello III and assuming a newly established role of chairmanship as the firm gets ready to make place for a new generation of lawyers in leadership roles.
People in the News—Feb. 9, 2024—Post & Schell, Cipriani & Werner, Knox McLaughlin
Post & Schell recently announced that the firm’s principals have elected Mason Avrigian Jr as a member of the firm’s board of directors. Mason has been principal and co-chair of the firm’s construction practice group.
Gateley appoints consultant to grow international arbitration practice in Africa
Perenami Momodu, who was previously a partner at a leading West African law firm, joins Gateley to lead our African practice and support the continued expansion of our multi-jurisdictional strategic international disputes services, particularly across oil and gas, infrastructure, technology, fintech, construction, investments, and renewable energy.
Mergers & Alliances:
New England’s Hinckley Allen Expands Southward, Opening 7th Office in Fort Lauderdale
New England-brd Hinckley, Allen & Snyder is absorbing Fort Lauderdale-anchored, construction-focused law firm Ferencik Libanoff Brandt Bustamante & Goldstein, this will provide the Am Law 200 firm with its first office south of New York.
A&O Shearman Merger: Addressing Insiders’ Concerns and Navigating Initial Hurdles
Following the announcement of A&O Shearman’s approaching merger, internal discussions have started occurring to addressing concerns about the operational logistics in the US. This major alliance has led to discussions among insiders about potential initial obstacles that the firm may confront.
Office Openings & Closing:
Phila.-undefinedd Weber Gallagher Opens Florida Outpost With Fowler White Partner
With the opening of a new office in Coral Gables, Florida, Weber Gallagher Simpson Stapleton Fires & Newby has increased its geographic reach to eleven locations as rate pressures lead to consolidation in the insurance defense market.
New Fort Worth Trial Firm Adds Offices in Dallas, West Texas
Vartabedian Hester & Haynes, launched on Jan. 29 with 10 former Alston & Bird lawyers, opened an office in Dallas with two Holland & Knight litigators.
Willkie Transfers Frankfurt Lawyers to Open Office in Munich
About a quarter of the attorneys of Willkie Farr & Gallagher will be moving from Frankfurt to Munich to open the office.
Clyde & Co Moves Middle East Regional HQ to Saudi Arabia
International law firms have long regarded Dubai as their de facto Middle East headquarters, however two of the region’s four largest law firms are now headquartered in Riyadh.
Financials:
A Steady Litigation Year Helped Drive Big Law Revenue Gains
The latest annual numbers from Wells Fargo’s Legal Specialty Group, a survey drawing on financial data from more than 130 law firms, reported that revenues grew year-over-year by 6%, with some momentum coming into 2024 thanks to strength in countercycle practices and rate increases.
Midsize Firms Use Bonuses, Culture to Compete for Talent After High Payouts for Associates
If midsize firms can’t match the top of the market in associate compensation, they should touch other perks to potential recruits, said recruiter Steve Stone. For some, non-financial benefits include work-life balance and earlier access to client contact.
Arnold & Porter Sees Revenue and Profits Jump, With PEP Rising 15% to $1.6M
With regard to their financial performance last year Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer hit a new firm record, growing gross revenue by 9.7% to $1.139 billion in 2023, while its profits per equity partner rose nearly 15% to $1.610 million after falling to $1.403 million in 2022.
Billing Rate Increases and Demand Growth Push DC Firms to Strong Financial Year
“D.C. was our best-performing region,” stated Owen Burman, of Wells Fargo Legal Specialty Group. “The regulatory side was on fire for so many firms.”
Atlanta Law Firms See Faster Profit Growth, Despite Slowdowns in Revenue
Atlanta-brd firms grew revenue on average by 4.4% last year, this is according to data from Wells Fargo Private Bank Legal Specialty Group,
Kilpatrick, ‘Getting Deeper and Broader’ With Largest Clients, Sees 13% Profit Growth
The Atlanta firm decreased its equity partner tier by 7.6% to 106 partners, meanwhile its nonequity partner ranks expanded by 6% to 146.
Asia Deal Digest: UK Firms Leading on Capital Market, Financing and Funds Deals
Clifford Chance, Linklaters, Allen & Overy, MoFo and Dechert lead on the market’s deals.
Mason Hayes & Curran grows revenue 7% to €114m
Turnover at Mason Hayes & Curran (MHC) has surpassed €100m for the second consecutive year after the Dublin firm grew revenue 7% in 2023 to reach €114m.
Technology & Innovation:
Pennsylvania’s Am Law 100 Firms Are Diving Into Gen AI
Ten firms with roots in the commonwealth that discussed their AI use with Law.com. Most of them indicated that most of their use cases for the new technology were internal rather than client-facing.
Legal Tech Startup Darrow Launches PlaintiffLink, AI-Powered Plaintiff-Finding Service
Darrow’s AI-powered PlaintiffLink aims to connect law firms with high-qualified plaintiffs for their cases. Though it has been offered in beta to a select group of firms in the past, the offering is now available to all customers.
African Legal Tech Network SALT Launches Online Courses to Fill ‘Modern’ Gaps in Legal Education
The South African Legal Technology network has launched its SALTed division to improve legal education to make it more inclusive and representative of the diverse African demographic.
A Letter to the Legal Client About Lawyers’ Use of AI
The article is an assurance to the client that attorneys have regulation when it comes to their use of technology, in general and AI in particular.
Can Big Law Extract the Maximum Value of AI?
Legal departments of major corporations along with the industry’s most elite firms are actively using generative AI, and the belief that any organization would wait on identifying and testing use cases is seen as a significant competitive risk.
Gen AI Providers Offer IP Indemnity. Here’s Why It’s Not Foolproof
Large cloud and AI providers including Amazon, Google and Microsoft, among others, say they’ll take on the legal risk of a copyright claim arising from the use of their offered LLMs. But there are significant limitations to these protections.
Diversity & Inclusion:
As Black Women Still Face Hurdles in the Legal World, Mentorship Remains Critical to Success
Two Holland & Knight attorneys and a Hialeah assistant city attorney emphasise the relationships that have assisted them in thriving in a profession in which women continue to be underrepresented.
idsized firms are in the headlines for a variety of reasons, including the dominance of women CEOs in Northeastern legal firms, an insurance defense firm that bases its business model on nuclear verdicts, and an Am legal Second Hundred firm that pays bonuses that are higher than those offered by top firms.
Ashley Picker Dubin on Becoming Day Pitney’s First Woman Discovery Counsel
According to Dubin, a leader in a discovery practice will have particular difficulties this year, such as developing AI strategy and managing the plethora of new data kinds that developing technologies like generative AI are increasingly producing.
Diversity Twice as Important to Associates than Partners, Survey Finds
One associate has been reported as saying that ‘There is a growing cultural divide with boomer partners failing to… meaningfully advance DEI issues beyond empty statements on the website,’.
Market Commentary:
How to Show the Real Value of Your Litigation Team
This article discusses about how one of the most difficult aspects of working in-house as litigation counsel is demonstrating value to the company. That means establishing that you are more than a “cost center”.
Study: Civil Legal Services Lawyers Make as Much as 45% Less Than Public-Sector Counterparts
The decades-old IOLA fund pays for low-income state residents’ civil legal services, and the coalition said the account is a critical source of infrastructure that will be used to increase salaries. But Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposal could curtail that plan, they said.
Using debt to fund expansion and investments seems sensible, but it also points to a possible lack of financial planning, writes the Global Lawyer.
Compensation, Work-Life Balance Among Top Drivers of Associate Satisfaction
Money continues to be the primary motivation for law firm associates, this is followed closely by work-life balance, career opportunities and office attendance policies.
‘There is Concern’: A&O Shearman Insiders on Initial Hurdles Facing Firm
Questions are being asked internally about how the imminent tie-up will work in the US, the timing of merger architect Wim Dejonghe’s departure, and the integration of certain offices.
Investors Want Companies to Prioritize Climate Change Over AI
According to a new survey by the EY Center for Board Matters, as business leaders zero in on the risks and opportunities of artificial intelligence, investors remain focused on conventional priorities, such as climate change. And they want the companies they invest in on the same page.
White Box vs. Black Box Compensation Systems
A remuneration scheme that makes partner expectations explicit and gives partners a way to confirm the results by reporting them back to them fosters collegiality more than an opaque scheme that, by its very nature, encourages mistrust and animosity amongst partners.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Ashurst, Sidley Relocate Top Partners to London to Target Fast Growing Industries
It occurs as businesses allocate more and more resources to the quickly expanding fields of private finance and technology.
Paul Weiss Lands Linklaters Partner as Head of European Public M&A in London
With high-profile hires in London, the company is expanding its corporate practice and this time it went after talent at a UK firm.
Milbank Leaders Praise Non-Equity Partnership Tier Amid London Growth
In an interview with Law.com International, London co-managing partner Andrej Wolf is reported as saying that the firm’s famously high NQ pay is “indirectly demanded” by clients.
Kirkland & Ellis Senior London Tax Partner Exits
The resignation comes after a turbulent time at Kirkland during which two lateral hires were added to the tax group late last year in addition to exits.
Gowling WLG names asset management head next UK chair
Emma Pioli, the head of asset management and a real estate partner at the Anglo-Canadian legal firm Gowling WLG, will take over as chair of the UK LLP.
UK disputes firm launches international arbitration practice
London disputes-focused firm Rosenblatt has launched an international arbitration practice with the hire of co-heads Sara Paradisi from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner and Leonardo Carpentieri from LMS Legal.
EMEA
Nikki Smythe second HSF partner to leave for Clifford Chance in recent months.
In recent months, the company has actively pursued employment in Germany, bringing on corporate laterals from Clifford Chance among others.
HFW Brings Aboard 11-Strong Ince Greece Shipping Team
Since the beginning of the 2023 financial year the firm has hired 30 partners.
Cohen & Gresser Adds Venture Capital Team in Paris
The litigation-focused business is able to recover and grow following many losses in the French capital, thanks to the recruitment of a three-lawyer, partner-led team from a French boutique.
Fieldfisher launches Amsterdam practice
Marc Krestin, a new partner at Fieldfisher and a former co-head of arbitration at environmental law firm Pogust Goodhead, has established an international arbitration practice based in Amsterdam.
APAC
Fund Management Leader Joins Norton Rose Fulbright in Sydney
Liz Hastilow has arrived to Norton Rose from First Sentire Investors.
KWM Adds Former Shearman Partner to Singapore, Promotes Two to Partnership in Asia
Gary Hamp was previously a partner at Shearman & Sterling, Latham & Watkins and Hogan Lovells.
White & Case Japan Team Walks to Greenberg Traurig
Greenberg has made a clear effort to expand its real estate and corporate practices. Meanwhile, White & Case faced a few departures in Tokyo last year.
Finance Partner Leaves HSF to Join Clifford Chance in Sydney
Nikki Smythe is the second HSF partner to depart for Clifford Chance in recent months.
NRF Hires Regulatory and Disputes Partner in Melbourne
Kimberley MacKay is now the second partner hire for Norton Rose Fulbright in Australia in the last week.
Bird & Bird Hires Partner From Defunct Hong Kong Office of Winston & Strawn
Winston Singapore Movements: More Partners Leave Big Law for Own Venture; TSMP, HSF Make New Appointments& Strawn announced last year that it would cease operations in Hong Kong in February.
Singapore Movements: More Partners Leave Big Law for Own Venture; TSMP, HSF Make New Appointments
Justin Choo has departed from Bird & Bird in order to establish his own shop in Singapore, meanwhile HSF and TSMP are making high level appointments in the city-state.
Two More Technology Partners Leave Norton Rose Fulbright for A&O
Four technology partners have left for the magic circle firm in recent months.
NRF Hires Regulatory and Disputes Partner in Melbourne
Kimberley MacKay is the second Australian partner hire for Norton Rose Fulbright this week.
The Americas
This article is filled with this news as well as other announcements of recent hirings and promotions of New York attorneys.
Kirkland Lures Antitrust Partners From Cravath, King & Spalding
This is the third Cravath partner exit this month, it seems that the firm’s top competitors are continuing to recruit from the firm.
Associate Finally Joins Abraham Watkins, 5 Years After His Move Was Blocked by a Client
Efraim Gonzalez Jr. was prohibited from moving to Houston plaintiff’s firm Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner in 2018 because USA Gymnastics, a client of his former firm, refused to waive a conflict of interest.
FisherBroyles Picks Up IP Lawyers in LA, Litigator in Chicago
Recently, FisherBroyles grew by adding a litigator in Chicago and a partner in Los Angeles dedicated to intellectual property law.
Alston & Bird Expands West Coast IP Practice, Adding Partner From Haynes and Boone
Theresa Conduah is now the fourth IP partner in the 100-lawyer Los Angeles office of Alston & Bird.
Southeast Law Firm Creates 2 New C-Suite Roles as Firm Charts Growth
Am Law 200 firm Moore & Van Allen has split its highest-ranking administrative job, hiring a former Proskauer Rose staffer for one of the two new C-suite roles.
Willkie Energy Deals Partner Returns to McGuireWoods in Houston
Jay Hughes, who was a co-chair of the power and renewable energy practice at Willkie Farr & Gallagher since he joined in 2020, has returned to McGuireWoods as a partner in Houston, where he once led the office.
Regarding her jump to the Miami born firm, incoming Greenberg Traurig shareholder Lisa Lanham said. “A lot of fintech’s are either starting themselves in Florida or moving from San Francisco to go to Florida, so it was definitely an intentional move,”.
Connecticut Movers: Partners Elected at 4 CT Firms
Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey, Katz & McGrath, Louden, Brown Rudnick and Whitman Breed all announce elevations.
Paul Hastings Investment Management Partner Rejoins Akin in New York
Ira Kustin, who returned to Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld on Thursday as an investment management partner in New York, is the fourth Big Law partner in that practice to make the move to Akin in the last few months.
Clifford Chance Grows LatAm Team with Hire of Corporate M&A Counsel in Houston
This article also contains news from Munsch Hardt, Spencer Fane, and McDermott Will & Emery.
Neal Gerber Eisenberg announced the addition of Jonathan Ksiazek as a partner in the labour and employment practice area; Balch & Bingham announced the appointment of Liz Williamson as a partner in the environmental and natural resources practice in the Washington, D.C. office.
Barnes & Thornburg Adds 4-Lawyer Finance Team From Morris Manning
John T.L. Koenig, managing partner of the Atlanta office stated that “their skill sets will no doubt be in demand as the business community in the Atlanta area continues to grow and thrive”.
Arnold & Porter Lures 7-Lawyer Team From BCLP Across Offices
Chair Richard Alexander stated that It’s been a firm priority for Arnold & Porter to expand its core regulatory, litigation and transactional offerings across offices.
In-House
Tesla Rival Taps Mercedes-Benz GC for Top Lawyer Job
Matt Everitt the new legal chief has been reported as saying “Lucid’s products set an incredibly high bar for automotive companies, and I’m energized to join at a time when the company is poised to expand further”.
Senior American Airlines Attorney Lands Back at Kimberly-Clark, This Time as GC
Grant McGee became the consumer products giant’s legal chief when an experienced lawyer at Kimberly-Clark was promoted.
Acadia Pharmaceuticals Taps Former Pfizer Attorney as CLO
The only firm with a Parkinson’s hallucination treatment licensed by the Food and Drug Administration is under new legal leadership, thanks to Jennifer Rhodes.
20-Year Military Lawyer Takes Legal Reins of Storied R&D Agency DARPA
In a LinkedIn announcement, Candi Alfred stated, “It really is an amazing organization.”
Former White House Counsel Rejoins Gibson Dunn
Stuart Delery left the firm to join the Biden administration in early 2021.
Neiman Marcus Promotes Deputy GC to Legal Chief
Tom Mattei is taking the legal reigns of the luxury department store chain, this is his second legal chief role.
Promotions & Appointments:
Debevoise Lands New National Security Practice Co-Head as Firm Eyes M&A Uptick
Richard Sofield is arriving from Vinson & Elkins and he was previously a senior DOJ attorney. He is now looking to help Debevoise in CFIUS matters, as national security issues bubble up in deal work.
People in the News—Jan. 30, 2024—Marshall Dennehey
Mohamed N. Bakry a shareholder in Marshall Dennehey’s Philadelphia office, has been appointed as president of the Lawyers Club of Philadelphia.
Eckert Seamans Brings On First COO in 10 Years
Arriving from DLA Piper is Eddie Raychaudhuri, who served as a practice group director during his time there.
On the Move: Ogletree Elevates Washko to Managing Shareholder, Two Firms Add Lateral Partners
Troutman Pepper and Nelson Mullins have added lateral partners, also Liz Washko is succeeding Matt Keen as managing shareholder at Ogletree.
With New CEO Starting This Week, Husch Announces New Chair-Elect as Well
Joe Glynias, St. Louis-based labour and employment partner will step in to Catherine Hanaway’s position from the beginning of April.
Jones Day Appoints New Partner-in-Charge of Mexico City Office
While Manuel Romano will continue to work with clients in the firm’s financial markets business, tax partner Rodrigo Gómez Ballina assumes legal leadership.
Pinsent Masons appoints Robert Dever to lead tax practice in Dublin
Pinsent Masons has hired tax partner Robert Dever to lead and develop its tax law practice in Dublin and bolster its European transactional services group.
Former Bumble Legal Chief Takes CLO Posts at 2 NYC Public Companies
As the Dolan family looks to expand MSG Entertainment and a subsidiary that just constructed a $2.3 billion arena in Las Vegas, Laura Franco is emerging as a major executive.
The Current (and Future) State of AI in Legal Finance
In this piece, Burford Capital’s David Perla explores the application and future prospects of artificial intelligence in legal financing, which is the activity of offering capital and support for lawsuits and arbitration awards. He specifically looks at how AI is used to source investments, decide which investments to make, and forecast results after investments are made.
Double partner appointment at RDJ
Louise Boughton and Sarah Slevin have been named as partners by RDJ in all corporate, commercial, and dispute resolution disciplines.
McCann FitzGerald appoints Iain Ferguson as head of investment management group
Iain Ferguson, a partner at McCann FitzGerald, has been named head of the firm’s investment management group (IMG).
Mergers & Alliances:
Fennemore Acquires San Diego Firm, Solidifying West Coast Presence
The day the business closes another merger with a Seattle-based firm, it will also welcome the 21 attorneys who once made up Sullivan Hill.
Fisher Phillips Acquires Legal Tech Startup, Investing Further Into Tools for HR
Jonathan Crook, Fisher Phillips partner and founder of the startup stated that. “It fits with this idea of giving companies and HR teams sort of an on-demand resource that they have with us”.
The Big Four’s legal presence in the French-speaking province of Canada is enhanced by Sweibel Novek Rabbat’s competence in tax, estates, and trust services.
Office Openings & Closing:
The firm continues to be bullish on restructuring, almost two years after its raid of Stroock.
Paul Hastings Continues Building its Restructuring Practice with new hires for Kirkland.
PA-Based Chartwell Law Opens Offices in Austin, Dallas
Despite being interested in the Texas market for some time, Chartwell law opened in Austin and Dallas, because they hired four litigation and coverage lawyers from Disiere, Martin, Jefferson & Wisdom.
Selendy Gay’s David Elsberg, Quinn Emanuel Partners To Launch New Litigation Boutique
Elsberg Baker & Maruri will open in February with a roster of “aggressive, first-chair” trial lawyers, according to senior partner David Elsberg.
Ashurst Expands Alternative Services Division with Poland Office Launch
Ashurst Advance is collaborating with Elevate, a worldwide ALSP with headquarters in Los Angeles, to create a new office in Krakow.
Skadden’s Elizabeth Robertson Launches Business Crime Boutique
The high-profile white-collar partner, who left Skadden in December, talks with Law.com International about her new venture.
Financials:
‘An Era of Heightened Risk’: Class Action Onslaught Shows No Signs of Abating
According to a report by the law firm Duane Morris, Mega-settlements and high class-certification rates likely will “incentivize the plaintiffs’ class action bar to be equally if not more aggressive with their case filings and settlement positions in 2024”.
Milbank’s Revenue Jumps 18% as Profits Soar 19% and Nonequity Tier Grows
The firm’s 18.6% increase in PEP to $5.114 million occurred simultaneously as Milbank saw a 51% expansion in its nonequity tier.
Big Law Rates Continue Rising, But Trail 2023 Increases So Far
According to bankruptcy records, the average Am Law 50 firm increased its rates by 8% to 10% in 2024.
Aggressive Rate Hikes, Strong 4th Quarter Collections Drive 2023 Revenue Growth for Phila. Firms
The six Philadelphia-based firms surveyed by Wells Fargo together increased revenues by 4.7%, the is less than the nationwide average of 6.0%.
Energy Sector Work Led to Higher-Than-Average Revenue Jump for Homegrown Texas Law Firms Last Year
Based on certain financial indicators, a group of domestic Texas firms outperformed the industry average in 2023, according to a Wells Fargo Legal Specialty Group year-end study.
White & Case latest to raise pay for London lawyers
The newest American law firm to increase junior attorneys’ compensation in London is White & Case.
Technology & Innovation:
We Asked Every Am Law 100 Law Firm How They’re Using Gen AI. Here’s What We Learned
Using the much-discussed technology, at least 41 of the highest-earning law firms in the United States are investigating potential in both the legal and corporate domains.
Lawyers Call 5th Circuit AI Proposal Vague, Potential Threat to Work-Product Privilege
The appellate court would mandate that lawyers who employed artificial intelligence (AI) in the preparation of a document attest to the fact that all citations, legal analysis, and other language have “been reviewed for accuracy and approved by a human.”
1 in 4 Organizations Are Banning Gen AI for Now, Fearing Risks
Cisco Chief Legal Officer Dev Stahlkopf has been reported as saying that “the risks of AI are real, but they are manageable when thoughtful governance practices are in place as enablers, not obstacles, to responsible innovation,”.
The Financial and Cultural Costs in Providing Legal Tech Solutions to Clients
Experts from Paul Hastings, Husch Blackwell, Redgrave, and other firms spoke on the cultural costs of legal IT teams that also cultivate client relationships, as well as whether businesses should build or acquire.
‘Late Adopters’ or ‘Cautious Optimism’: Law Firm Partners Share Divergent Approaches to Gen AI
A Legalweek panel highlighted the lack of agreement surrounding how prominent law firms should be approaching the emerging technology.
Generating Buzz: Judicial Scrutiny of AI Use and Its Impact on the Future of Litigation
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the legal sector by automating and improving research, expediting the document review process, and even creating papers. But there are drawbacks to this revolutionary capacity as well.
Diversity & Inclusion:
2023: A Landmark Year in LGBTQ+ Rights—Legal Triumphs and Political Challenges
Looking toward 2024, there is a sense of renewed optimism, carrying forward the lessons and victories of the past year, ready to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
Alston’s Finance Group Sees Success, in Both Revenue and Diversity
Karen Gelernt and her successors in the Alston group are among the few female leaders of a structured finance practice in Big Law.
West Point Defends Race-Conscious Admissions Policy to Supreme Court
U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar wrote “A lack of diversity in leadership can jeopardize the Army’s ability to win wars,”.
17 of the Top 20 Law Schools Have More Women Enrolled
The Enjuris report states that “The decline in male enrolment and the increasing number of students who choose not to disclose their gender present new dimensions in the evolving narrative of gender diversity in legal education”.
Market Commentary:
What’s in a Name? Law Firms Rebrand HR to ‘People Operations’
The transition from HR language to “talent development” has mostly taken place at large law firms, where positions like chief people officer and chief talent officer are common and are slowly infiltrating the midsize firm market. Experts claim that the fierce competition for skilled individuals in the legal field is linked to this development.
CLO Workloads Swell, as Duties Expand Beyond Legal
Veta T. Richardson, CEO of the Association of Corporate Counsel said that “Squeezing general counsel resources while expanding their remit is unlikely to be sustainable for the long term”.
After Moderate Revenue Gains, Law Firms Plan for Growth in Both Deals and Litigation
Wells Fargo’s Owen Burman said, “The mindset is toward growth as opposed to cutting, and that’s a change over the last 18 months,”.
In-House Lawyers Say AI Well-Suited for Some Tasks, Dangerous for Others
One participant in a newly released survey of general counsels stated that “I am … more likely to trust the use of [AI] by someone who is more seasoned because they have the experience to know whether it is a legitimate response”.
China’s Property Crisis Marks Sidley’s Time in the Sun, But Will It Shake Up the Playing Field?
Apart from the property crisis in China, there hasn’t been much notable drama occurring in Asia regarding restructuring. However, how will competing companies fare now that Sidley Austin has monopolized the China real estate market?
🌟 Exciting News from Fides Search! 🏆 Thrilled to share that Edward Parker, Inka Fukalova, Sershen Ingram, Shirin Stanley, and Gwendolyn Shaw from our team attended the Investing in Talent: Recruiter Awards this week, following our nominations for:
1. Best Recruitment Company to Work For (1-19 Employees)
2. Best Workplace Environment
A heartfelt thank you to the judges for acknowledging our commitment to fostering a workplace that not only attracts top talent but also provides an exceptional environment for professional growth. This event was not just a celebration of achievements, but also an opportunity to connect with industry leaders and share insights. Thank you for a fantastic evening! 🙌
See what Edward Parker, our managing director, had to say:
“It was a huge honour to be nominated in, not just one, but two categories. As a small team in a niche market, you often feel like the exceptional work of your team goes unnoticed, so to be recognised in these areas was a true highlight and something I’m personally immensely proud of. Congratulations to those that won, thrilled for them!”
Looking ahead to further milestones for Fides Search, the next of which is our nomination for Recruitment Firm of the Year at the Women, Influence & Power in Law UK Awards 2024.
2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the senior leadership of law firms across the world.
Political change is crucial to decision-making at the highest level and this year is set to be one of the most politically active in decades with many major economies (the UK, US and the EU/Commission to name a few) going to the polls. Law firm mergers and lateral partner hiring is intrinsically tied to the wider economy and all eyes will be on incoming premiers to see the strategy for their term in office.
Competition and antitrust is no exception to this rule. Arguably, it is one of the most beholden to political shifts, such as the 2016 Brexit referendum, irrevocably changing the UK regulatory landscape.
In this case, 2024 looks to be one of the most significant years in the competition market in quite some time. Taking the UK & Irish markets, this article will delve into the monumental regulatory shifts coming into effect in 2024, leading to one clear conclusion: dither on investment in competition now and the ship may have sailed by 2025.
This year kicked off with important news from the Court of Appeal. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has won an appeal with the court agreeing that companies outside the UK must provide information it requests, quashing legal challenges from BMW and VW.
Reflecting on the decision the CMA’s chief executive Sarah Cardell said, “Today’s unanimous judgment strengthens the CMA’s ability to investigate, enforce against and deter any anti-competitive conduct that harms consumers, businesses and markets in the UK”.
This significant development in the scope of the CMA’s powers comes hot on the heels of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill which is currently at Committee stage in the House of Lords. This new Bill could give the CMA greatly enhanced capabilities in dealing with key players in their respective industries – a move most see as an attempt to catch up with Big Tech.
In summary, the DMCC would entail:
Designation of a small handful of firms with Strategic Market Status i.e. a substantial, entrenched market power (non-transitory); in at least one digital activity,
Conduct Requirements and Pro-Competition Interventions (“PCI”) i.e. removing barriers to entry and addressing the root cause of overwhelming market power. This is not a new concept as the regulator Ofcom is held up as a near parallel for enforcing PCIs
SMS firms will also have to report to the CMA, prior to completion, any acquisitions with a value of £25 million or more and a UK connection.
With such a significant force entering the market it will inevitably take a great deal of investment and manpower. The CMA has announced that, in advance of the new regime coming into force, it plans to increase the 60 heads in the Digital Markets Unit to 200 by October. The CMA is signalling its intentions clearly and UK partners would do well to listen:
“[the Bill] not only provides clarity for UK parliamentarians, but also for tech firms and wider stakeholders about the approach the CMA intends to take. Once Parliament passes the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill, we will release more detailed draft guidance for consultation. This will mean that everyone is clear about how we intend to operate the regime and has the opportunity to provide their views.”
The public mood has certainly turned against the largest multinational technology companies; however, the policymakers will also be conscious of the need to encourage foreign businesses to invest in the UK.
The post-Brexit landscape has resulted in a shortfall in inward UK investment and the CMA, whilst beefing up in its battle against tech giants, will be conscious of the wider numbers. According to parliamentary research on FDI statistics, 2021 marked the fifth successive year inward FDI flows into the UK fell: inward FDI flows reached a high of £192.0 billion in 2016, before falling in each subsequent year.
In strengthening their hand, they must avoid the trap the CJEU fell into in 2020 having increased its own scope of regulation in relation to FDI. The Commission’s Third Annual Report stated that, despite a ‘significant increase’ in formally reviewed cases, less than 3% of cases resulted in a Commission opinion. Increasing the powers with which a competition regulator can act can be a double-edged sword and it is one the UK would be wise to heed.
And so, to Dublin, one of Europe’s fastest growing legal markets with several international firms establishing multi-practice offerings in Ireland through lateral partner hires, partnerships and mergers. Dublin’s English-speaking legal system, full EU membership, proximity to the UK and encouragement of foreign investment (particularly from the US) has led to it becoming a key competition battleground.
The market is, however, close-knit and so has looked further afield for its growth over the past 12 months. The top Irish firms have fairly stable teams sitting at 8-10 lawyers across the board and so recent hires have largely come from overseas and in-house/regulators. In the domestic market, there has been only one lateral partner move in the last year. The only lateral associate move was a reinforcement at Ropes & Gray to support their office opening having hired a Counsel from the Competitive and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC).
Firms need to think outside of the box to get a foothold in what is an increasingly lucrative market with a crucial year ahead.
In line with international developments in the UK & Europe, Ireland have also been reviewing the capabilities of their regulator, the CCPC. The Screening of Third Country Transactions Act 2023 was signed into law on 31 October 2023. It gives the Irish government wide-ranging powers to review investments which meet specified criteria and, ultimately, to block investments that create national security and/or risks to public order.
The Act is expected to come into force in Spring 2024 and one of the specified criteria applies to all third country parties taking significant ownership of a business. This will apply to all UK and US-based investors.
The CCPC will also have a new power to impose civil fines which, if the strengthened DPC (Data Protection Commission) is any example to follow, will be enforced with aplomb. Fines will total up to €10 million or 10% of total worldwide turnover (whichever is greater).
The Act also extends the surveillance powers contained in the Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Act 2009 to CCPC’s investigations into anti-competitive agreements. The 2009 Act allows subject to certain safeguards, the “(a) monitoring, observing, listening to or making a recording of a particular person or group of persons or their movements, activities and communications, or (b) monitoring or making a recording of places or things, by or with the assistance of surveillance devices.”
Foreign business, particularly from its traditional Anglophone partners, will continue to invest in Ireland and they will need local expertise. Whether that local expertise comes in the form of a strategic alliance, a merger, or new office openings is yet to be seen. One thing for certain is that international firms in the UK and US have a watchful eye on Dublin.
Written by Nathan Simpson, a Consultant at Fides Search and keen follower of the Competition/Antitrust space. He can be contacted on nathan@fidessearch.com or +447823909164.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
White & Case London Trade Partner Exits to Launch Solo Practice
Iain MacVay, a veteran partner, formerly oversaw several trade practices across London.
Brown Rudnick adds UK white collar chief from Jenner & Block
Paul Feldberg, a former prosecutor for the SFO, is the most recent in a line of senior lateral hires for Brown Rudnick’s London office.
Joe Beashel to head Matheson’s London office
Joe Beashel is a partner at Matheson and has been named head of the Irish legal firm’s London branch.
Ruadhán Kenny, John Coary, Raphael Clancy, Susan Carroll Chrysostomou, and Connor Cassidy have all been promoted to partner at Matheson.
M&A Heavyweight Patrick Sarch Returns to White & Case
After three years at Hogan Lovells, Patrick Sarch is returning to White & Case, where he also assisted in leading the firm’s global financial institutions group.
EMEA
Ashurst Continues Run of European Corporate Hires, Adding Baker McKenzie Partner in Luxembourg
The firm anticipates that by bringing on Jean-Phillippe Smeets, they would be able to better serve the growing clientele in Luxembourg, an increasingly important European hub.
Orrick Vows to Rebuild Paris Arbitration After Series of Exits
According to the firm’s website, departures have left it with two Paris arbitration partners; however, sources close to the matter indicate that one of them is currently on vacation and it is unknown when they will return.
Second Executive Committee Member Exits Allen & Overy
The head of the company’s London-based structured finance and derivatives division left at the same time that CVC selected a fellow executive committee member to lead its Netherlands team.
Hogan Lovells Lures Prominent Partner and Disputes Team From White & Case in Paris
Arriving from White & Case are Jean-Pierre Picca who is an assistant to Nicolas Sarkozy’s French presidency as well as partner Jean-Lou Salha and three other people. Their concentration will be on compliance and investigations.
Pérez-Llorca beefs up leadership structure by appointing two executive partners
The firm has named Iván Delgado as its first international executive partner and Julio Lujambio as its first executive partner. The company intends to close the 2023 fiscal year having quadrupled sales over the previous ten years.
Iberian Firms Start Year With Series of Appointments
Firms in Portugal and Spain, including Pérez-Llorca and Andersen, have announced several moves will be taking place in January.
APAC
Two Partners Return to Australia’s Gilbert + Tobin from White & Case
Christopher Flynn and Nirangjan Nagarajah have returned to the Australian corporate law firm.
Singapore’s Big Four Allen & Gledhill Debuts in Shanghai
The Chinese Ministry of Justice approved the opening of offices by five foreign law firms, including Allen & Gledhill, in mainland China.
HKIAC Appoints A&O Partner as New Secretary General
Joanne Lau, an Allen & Overy partner, has been named the new secretary-general of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre. She will start work on the 26th of February.
HK: Howse Williams hires regulatory lawyer from Dechert
Jason Chan, a regulatory and compliance attorney, was a senior associate at Dechert before joining the Hong Kong legal firm Howse Williams as a partner.
Australia’s Allens Adds to IP Practice with Partner Hire
Natasha Burns, a Melbourne based lawyer, joins from her own firm.
Mayer Brown Adds Banking Partner in Singapore
After being partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, Janelene Chen is leaving for her new role.
The Americas
Baker McKenzie Lands Latham Dealmaker to Head California PE Practice
“We are going to build a full-sized PE practice in California with Eric Schwartzman’s arrival,” stated Leif King, who oversees Baker McKenzie’s transactional group in California.
Davis Polk Lures Another Cravath Partner, Adding M&A Litigator
Davis Polk has employed at least four Cravath partners in the past few years, including Rory Leraris.
Bracewell, King & Spalding Grow Energy Teams With In-House Adds
A Bechtel Energy energy and construction lawyer was brought on as a partner by King & Spalding in Houston, while Bracewell hired a Houston-based attorney with knowledge of energy transition tax credits.
Willkie Farr Taps Bay Area Gibson Dunn Partner to Help Lead White-Collar Practice
After more than 12 years with Gibson Dunn, Michael Li-Ming Wong is leaving the company.
Holland & Knight Picks Up Public Finance Duo From Greenspoon Marder
Incoming Holland & Knight counsel Denise Ganz stated, “It’s great to be part of a larger public finance department so that we can share ideas, kick around issues, and give each other input on things that apply to our practice area.”
Freshfields Hits Cravath Again for Latest New York Partner Addition
Freshfields, which has been looking to the esteemed New York firm for senior corporate recruits in recent years, has spotted Cravath as being top target.
McDermott Lands Julia Boyd for PE Group, Anticipating Strong Year for Transactions
Boyd, who is one of the founders of the Senior Women in Private Equity network, is planning to move the majority of her clientele from Reed Smith to McDermott.
Amid ‘Brutal Competition’ and Demand in Patent Practices, Orrick Grows IP Group
This past week, D.C. partners were also acquired by Miles & Stockbridge, McCarter & English, Crowell & Moring, and Arnold & Porter in their major practices.
Foley & Lardner Expands in New York With Partner Hires From Paul Hastings, Nelson Mullins
The goal of Milwaukee-based Foley & Lardner is to grow its offices on the East Coast.
Ballard Spahr Data Privacy Co-Chair Jumps to Equivalent Role at Blank Rome
Along with partner Sharon Klein, Philadelphia native Philip Yannella will resume the position of leadership at Blank Rome’s privacy, security, and data protection practice.
Former Power Company Exec Returns to Gowling WLG
Paul Harricks, who oversaw the energy group at Hydro One, is rejoining the company where he served as CLO.
Littler Mendelson elevates a new shareholder; CSG Law selects a new chair for their corporate & securities group; and other developments.
Morgan Lewis Adds Former Ballard Spahr Practice Leader
Aliza Karetnick had been at Ballard since 2019, when she arrived from Duane Morris.
Midsize Moves: Munsch Hardt Adds Hamilton Squibb Name Partner, Nutter Hires Perkins Coie Partner
Clifton Squibb became a shareholder in Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr’s energy practice, while Susan von Herrmann became a partner at Nutter McClennen & Fish, expanding the firm’s private client section.
Energy Litigation Partners Leave Alston & Bird in Fort Worth to Launch Boutique
Rob Vartabedian and Conrad Hester are leaving Alston & Bird, Rob is reported as saying “we thought we would enjoy the flexibility of a smaller firm, and we thought our clients would enjoy it also,”.
In-House
Microprocessor Giant AMD Hires Super-Connected Tech Lawyer as GC
At least nine tech companies, including AMD, have seen the significant contribution of recently engaged General Counsel Ava Hahn. She was also a general counsel for Kleiner Perkins, a venture capital firm, before.
Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap Hires First GC to Help Navigate Growth, Advance Mission
Over 50 years ago, Emanuel Bronner would hand out free samples of soap to attendees of his lectures espousing unity across religious and ethnic divides. As of today, the same soap is available in mass-market retailers such as Target and Walgreens and in around 40 countries.
Chip-Maker Micron Scoops Up Legal Leader From Rival That’s Restructuring
Micron, which plans to invest $150 billion in manufacturing and research and development over the next ten years, is luring Michael Ray away from Western Digital.
Pair of Biopharma Companies Tap Compliance Veterans to Lead Legal
Tris Pharma focuses on addiction and ADHD meanwhile BPGbio finds potential drugs using an AI platform.
Public Interest Law Center Hires Hausfeld Global Managing Partner as Executive Director
From next month, Brent Landau, the Global managing partner at Hausfeld, will lead the Public Interest Law Center as its executive director.
Defense Contractor Mercury Systems Swaps Out Legal Chief
Stuart Kupinsky has been appointed chief legal officer by CEO Bill Ballhaus. Kupinsky led Blackboard’s legal department when Ballhaus served as CEO.
Promotions & Appointments:
Stradley Ronon Taps Litigation Leader as New Managing Partner
Michael O’Mara, a former chair of the litigation department, took over the position earlier this month, replacing Jeffrey Lutsky, who is still the firm’s co-chair.
Smith Gambrell, Arnall’s Promotions Reflect Emphasis on Transactional, IP Practices
Compared to prior years, fewer attorneys were promoted to partners by both firms this year.
Nation’s Largest Milling Company Hires Regulatory Expert as Legal Chief
After nine years of working her way up at Ball Corp., Kate Kimball is taking on her first general counsel position.
Amex-Backed Startup Using Tech to Take Estate Planning to the Masses Hires First CLO
Doug Luftman, who has served as the legal head of five Silicon Valley startups, has been appointed chief legal officer of Trust & Will.
Gold-Mining Giant Newmont Hires CLO With Deep Global Experience
Most recently, Peter Wexler was the legal chief at Schneider Electric, a company based in Paris, where he was in charge of over 300 employees in 32 nations.
Debevoise Lands New National Security Practice Head, As Firm Eyes M&A Uptick
Rick Sofield, a former senior DOJ attorney arriving from V&E, looks to help Debevoise in CFIUS matters, as national security issues bubble up in deal work.
Mergers & Alliances:
Dilworth Acquires Suburban Phila. Trusts & Estates Boutique
Dilworth is taking over the Jenkintown, Feasterville, and Doylestown leases held by Yorkway Law Group, in addition to hiring one partner, two associates, and four employees.
Seyfarth Launches Restructuring Practice, Snagging Lateral Group from BCLP
The move lands as soon as Am Law 100 firms saw billable hours in bankruptcy increase by almost 7% last year.
Big Four Japanese Firm Mori Hamada Steps Up Southeast Asian Game with Philippines Alliance
Due to the growth in trade between the two regions, Japanese legal firms have made a significant push into Southeast Asia.
Office Openings & Closing:
Saltz Mongeluzzi Duo Launch New Catastrophic Injury Firm
“The days of having a physical server and hard files, and requiring everyone to show up every day are, one, gone and, two, not what we’re interested in,” Baer stated.
Simmons & Simmons announces Saudi Arabia debut
As Saudi Arabia grows in importance for clients, Simmons & Simmons has revealed plans to open in Riyadh, making it the latest legal firm to expand in this particular geographical area.
Kennedys opens tenth US office in Fort Lauderdale
Kennedys, an insurance specialist with headquarters in the UK, has expanded its presence in the US with the opening of its tenth office in Fort Lauderdale.
Big Law’s Rush Into Florida Has Slowed, but Miami Leasing Activity Remains Hot
While leasing activity nationwide slowed down in 2023—a year marked by remote work, construction slowdowns, and tighter budgets—law firms in Miami continued to snap up office space.
International law firms have been launching offices in the U.S. and paying top dollar for talent in the world’s largest and most lucrative legal market. But growth potential exists elsewhere, and firms shouldn’t give the rest of the world short shrift, writes The Global Lawyer.
Financials:
Big Law Has ‘False Sense of Security’ as Clients Depart for Midsized Firms
A new report from Thomson Reuters and Georgetown Law has argued that since the financial crisis of 2007-2008, “market power shifted decisively from law firms to the clients, rapidly moving from a sellers’ to a buyers’ market for legal services,”.
From 2022, lobbying revenue increased year over year according to reports from Brownstein, Akin, and Holland & Knight.
Dallas, Houston See Notable, Above-Average Billing Rate Increases
In Dallas, the going pay for partners climbed by around 14% from $674 to $770 per hour in 2022. Associates in Houston experienced a roughly 10% increase in mean going rates, which went from approximately $477 to $525 per hour.
Pressure on UK Law Firms as US Competitors Raise NQ Pay Again
As US firms match the Cravath scale, domestic UK firms will fear falling too far behind.
Cozen O’Connor Announces First-Year Salary Increases in Phila., New York and Washington
Philadelphia first-year associates will make $195,000, while those in New York and Washington, D.C. would earn $205,000 more.
Milbank’s Revenue Jumps 18%, as Profits Soar 19% and Nonequity Tier Grows
The firm’s 18.6% jump in PEP to $5.114 million occurred as Milbank saw a 51% expansion in its nonequity tier.
How Midsize Firms Can Compete In Wake Of High Payouts For Associates
Pro Mid Market columnists at recruiting agency The Foster group suggest that in reaction to recent increases in associate base salary, midsize firms who are unable to match will emphasize to their colleagues that they have an accessible and meaningful career path.
Technology & Innovation:
Geopolitical Risks Force Us to Fastrack AI in Financial Crime Compliance
The increasing tempo of change combined with the unpredictability of updates from major regulators has created a heightened sense of pressure on legal and compliance professionals to keep pace.
Is AI-Generated Information Likely to Start Showing Up in Legal Reviews?
Lawyers and experts in electronic discovery must make sure they are ready and devise efficient plans for locating, confirming, and incorporating artificial intelligence (AI)-generated material into the legal review and electronic discovery procedures, even in the lack of official regulations.
Deloitte Launches Gen AI-Powered NavigAite Solution on RelativityOne and Relativity Server
The new solution has been proposed to help organizations accelerate document review, employee conduct investigations, PII identification and compliance activities.
Florida Bar Provides Attorneys with Roadmap for Integrating AI into Their Legal Practice
Scott Westheimer, president of the Florida Bar has been reported as saying that “Ethics opinions like this are crucial because they are going to help us with the latest technologies,”.
Compliance-as-a-Service (CaaS): Legal Tech Investment in the Non-Profit Industry
Unexpectedly, funding for legal technology is starting to go toward not-for-profit organizations (NPOs), such as public charities and private foundations.
Keeping Track of Developments in Cases That Pit Creative Content Against AI Programs
2023 saw the emergence of court rulings and procedural orders in litigation concerning the collision of generative AI systems with artistic output, and these developments culminated in 2024. Due to the unauthorized copyright works that AI companies incorporate into their AI programs, the majority of complaints allege copyright infringement and related allegations.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Blacks United in Legal Technology (BUiLT), which Horn co-founded with a number of legal and legal IT professionals, seeks to address a number of inequalities that still exist in the legal industry.
Gibson Dunn Partner Named First Black Dean of Drake Law
“A Drake Law education is unique due to its focus on theory and practical learning,” Roscoe Jones Jr. said in a statement. He proceeding this by saying, “I am humbled to lead a community committed to an unwavering collegiality and a singular mission to prepare students to promote justice, service and ethics.”
“One activist who has made an entire career of attacking policies … essentially admitted that he does not care about whether the legal profession has a place for everyone. Well, we do,” says Hanson Bridgett’s Kristina D. Lawson and Jennifer M. Martinez.
Despite ‘Anti-Woke’ Political Pushback in the US, Big Companies See ESG Risk on the Horizon
In Baker McKenzie’s annual survey of 600 senior legal and risk professionals from companies with more than $500 million in revenue based in the U.K., the U.S., Singapore and Brazil, 73% cited ESG disputes as a risk to their organization which makes it by far the most commonly cited risk to a business.
Comp systems are particularly sneaky since they are very difficult to modify.
Market Commentary:
Growing Geopolitical Threats Expand Role of GC
David Bamlango, general counsel of the Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank has been reported as saying, “you cannot not be aware. Otherwise, you will not be relevant in the boardroom or relevant for the senior executives who come to you for advice”.
3 Use Cases for AI in Litigation Finance
Co-chief operating officer of Burford Capital David Perla describes how he believes AI can help the litigation finance company make more and better investments.
Profit Obsession Evokes Cold Sweat From Today’s Lawyers
The most prominent feature of law firm culture that has been found to engender lawyers’ animosity toward their firms is “profit-mindedness”.
Deal Watch: Big Week in Multiple Verticals in M&A
PE, energy, and technology deals drive the week, with several large deals for Skadden and Paul Weiss in the previous few days. In addition, four additional IPOs occurred.
Implement Good Habits To Reduce Malpractice Risks
Even small steps can help break old habits that create big risks of malpractice claims, according to Dentons’ Alanna Clair and Shari Klevens.
Is a Boutique the Right Fit? A Legal Recruiter Weighs In
Legal recruiter Karen Vladeck stated that. “Boutique firms are not the right fit for everyone, but they have many features that can significantly benefit attorneys,”.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Akin Loses M&A Partner While Hiring in Restructuring, as London Laterals See Busy Start to the Year
Following a recent departure, the firm has welcomed a new hire, reflecting the dynamism of London’s job market in the New Year.
Freshfields Hits Akin for London-Based Private Funds Partner
Expect to see more private funds lawyers at the firm soon. This hire is the start of a 10-person expansion across London and New York.
Osborne Clarke Drops Signature from Law Firm Climate Charter
While no longer a full-fledged participant, the firm retains an advisory role with the charter through their “dialogue partner” status.
Gibson Dunn Rehires Freshfields London Restructuring Partner
It was a short-lived tenure at Freshfields, just 18 months.
Quinn Emanuel hires restructuring partner from Paul Hastings
Veteran Paul Hastings restructuring partner David Ereira has joined Quinn Emanuel in London.
EMEA
Orrick’s International Arbitration Co-Leader Exits Firm to Launch Own Practice
‘As a partner of an international firm, you are constantly confronted with issues of conflicts of interest,’ said Michael Bühler.
CVC Ditches GC Role as it Taps A&O for Next Legal Head
The new legal chief of the private equity giant occupies a senior partner role at A&O Amsterdam.
DLA Piper Takes Disputes Partner and Counsel From Simmons in Paris
With prior experience at both Legance and Linklaters, the new partner brings a wealth of expertise in cross-border M&A and private equity to the Italian firm, further bolstering their capabilities in these key areas.
Squire Builds Out Italian M&A and Energy Practice With Partner Hire From K&L Gates
Italian firms have been strengthening their M&A, private equity, energy and infrastructure teams, anticipating an increase in transactional and reconstruction work.
Linklaters Snags Veteran HSF Partner to Co-Head Paris Corporate/M&A Practice
After an 18-year tenure at HSF, Hubert Segain joins Linklaters, having become partner at the firm in 2008, serving their global governing council, and leading their Paris corporate practice.
White & Case Launches Jo’Burg Commercial Litigation Practice with Baker McKenzie Hire
Making significant strides in Africa, the firm boasts a thriving practice of 83 lawyers, propelling them from 21st to 16th in the 2023 regional rankings.
Ashurst Expands Munich Presence With 2 Partner Hires
Following partner departures last year, the firm welcomes the new hires.
APAC
Dentons Adds Second Australian Partner this Month
Dentons welcomes Edmund Burke to their Brisbane office as he exits Holding Redlich.
Han Kun, Lewis Silkin Take Partners from Mayer Brown, Gall in Hong Kong
Lewis Silkin welcomes new joiner Kenix Yuen as Bonnie Yung welcomes Bonnie Yung.
K&L Gates Hires Projects Partner as Brisbane Prepares to Host Olympics
Previously, Justin O’Callaghan served McInnes Wilson Lawyers as principal in Australia.
K&L Gates Hires Away MoFo’s Funds Partner in Singapore, Adds Another in Sydney
Prior to joining the firm, Jason Nelms served at Morrison Foerster whereas Claudine Salameh served at Norton Rose Fulbright.
HKIAC Appoints New Secretary General, New Corporate Hires for Hong Kong, Indian Firms
New corporate partners have been appointed by both Eric Chow & Co and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas.
The Americas
Davis Polk Brings Back Former White House Lawyer, Morgan Stanley Compliance Head
Raul Yanes returns to Davis Polk to lead the firm’s investigations and white-collar defence practice, becoming the most recent lawyer transitioning between a bank and Big Law.
Ex-White House Counsel Lawyer Joins Latham; Mayer Brown Hires Ex-Counsel to McCarthy
The Capitol’s doors keep spinning this week as lawyers shuffle between Big Law and the federal government.
On the heels of a team exit including Pat Cipollone, ex-White House counsel, Thomas O’Brien’s Ellis George departure was announced.
On the Move: Moore & Van Allen Adds Atlanta Entertainment Lawyer to Financial Practice
Brett E. Moskowitz is highly experienced “in a niche, highly competitive industry” and has a client base featuring banks who had been involved in syndicating financings across the entertainment industry.
Amid Management Shuffle, Norton Rose Adds Litigation Leaders in Chicago
Following departures within Norton Rose’s management, Joshua Lee and Edward Casmere join as the firm’s new litigation leads, bringing high expectations with them for the pace of disputes and lawsuits this year.
Tammy Davies exists Paul Hastings to join MoFo as partner in their finance group.
Midsize Moves: BakerHostetler Loses Marketing Manager and Health Care Lawyer To McNees, Nossman
Christopher Strah joins McNees Wallace & Nurick as their director of marketing. Meanwhile, Mark Kadzielski joins Nossaman’s health care group.
Latin America-Focused Lawyer Rejoins Greenberg Traurig in Washington, DC
Irwin Altschuler’s return bolsters the practice’s capabilities in the region, following a Mexico City January hire.
Baker McKenzie Adds Leading Energy Litigation Team in Texas
Renowned litigators David Baay, Jack Massey, Kelsey Machado, Ian Shelton, and Matthew (Matt) Rawlinson have joined the Houston office of international law firm Baker McKenzie.
In-House
Chicago Bears General Counsel Out After 2 Decades With Team
“I never took one day for granted,” wrote Cliff Stein on LinkedIn. “I worked with 4 general managers, 6 head coaches, 2 Presidents, got to experience 1 Super Bowl, 2 NFC championships and 4 NFC North championships.”
New Year Brings Flurry of UK In-House Moves
Neil Laventure’s departure from Haleon/GSK and Belgian bike start-up Cowboy’s first GC are among the In-House moves.
Ex-GC of McAfee Takes Legal Reins at Another Big Security Player
Nell O’Donnel joins Barracuda Networks to advance its growth, having served as legal chief to some of data protection’s biggest players.
Promotions & Appointments:
Potter Anderson Elects Five New Partners
Five individuals elected to partnership, announces Potter Anderson & Corron as Rebecca E. Salko, Aaron R. Sims, Nicholas D. Mozal, Stephen McNeill, and Laura G. Readinger are set to join the Delaware law firm, effective Jan 1.
Hoagland Longo Names Esteemed Litigator as New Managing Partner
“We are thrilled to have Chad step into the role of managing partner,” stated former managing parter, Gary J. Hoagland, in latest press release. “His legal acumen, leadership skills, forward-thinking approach, and steadfast commitment to client service uniquely position him to propel our firm into a promising future.”
After ‘Banner Year’ in Growth, ArentFox Schiff Names New Leader
10% RPL increase and a 2023 12%+ increase in PEP, projects Brian Waldman, ArentFox’s new managing partner.
Pinsent Masons appoints Melanie Grimmitt as head of new Client and Markets Group
Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has appointed energy partner Melanie Grimmitt as head of the firm’s new Clients and Markets Group as it seeks to accelerate its multinational sector-led approach in the wake of rapid global expansion.
Mergers & Alliances:
Utah’s Maschoff Brennan Goes Bicoastal in Merger With Another IP Boutique
“We are certainly not resting on our laurels,” stated a leader in an interview, “We’re interested in … expanding our geographic base into markets that seem to make sense”. Newly formed Maschoff Brennan Gilmore Israelsen & Mauriel currently have offices in Utah, California and New York.
Phila. Litigation Boutiques Dailey LLP and Levan Legal Announce Merger
Under the Dailey LLP name, the combined firm boasts 14 attorneys, four of whom are from Levan.
Hill Dickinson Links Up with Former Ince Group for Cyprus Launch
The launch welcomes two ex-Ince partners as well as three associates.
Office Openings & Closing:
McCarter & English Adds Miami Real Estate Transaction Team from Now-Shuttered Boutique
Alvarez & Diaz-Silveira’s remaining lawyers considered joining McCarter alongside Alberto Delgado and Manuel Fernandez. Instead, the firm closed at the end of last year with Pedro Alvarez’s retiring and two other employees relocating to Polsinelli.
Davis Polk, Latham Engaged to Advise on Anta Spin-off and $1B IPO of Amer
If successful, Amer’s listing is set to be one of the most important IPOs in over two years, featuring a Chinese majority shareholder on Nasdaq.
Pinsent Masons Gains Licence to Operate in Abu Dhabi
The growth in Saudi Arabia and UAE’s importance to international firms is further highlighted by the latest move.
Debevoise Picks Daily Mail’s Former HQ As Next London Home
According to an inside source, the firm’s new 70,000 ft² HQ will be a 40% increase from their current premises.
Luxembourg-Based Arendt Opens Frankfurt Office
Mirroring Arendt’s existing network, the operation will function as a channel of communication for clients abroad and the Luxembourgh HQ, but local law will not be practiced.
Weil, Pillsbury Eye London Office Moves Amid US Firm Upsizing Trend
A contrast in opinions toward hybrid working have seen several U.K-led firms downsizing while their U.S.-founded counterparts take up larger spaces.
Phelps Dunbar Adds Memphis, Nashville Offices in Combination With Farris Bobango
The most recent tie-up between firms is marked by Am Law 200 Phelps Dunbar’s joining with 28-lawyer Faris Bobango as mergers are quickly becoming the 2024 trend.
Financials:
Paul Weiss, Kirkland Lead as General Atlantic Takeover Creates $96B Investor
It is anticipated that this acquisition of Actis, a company dedicated to sustainability, will establish an investing platform with around $96 billion in assets managed.
Should US Law Firms Offer 20% Less Pay for 20% Less Work?
Recently, Slaughter and May formalized a reduced-hours trial; nevertheless, in the past, American companies have usually saved these adjustments for employees with exceptional situations.
No Origination Credits in Partner Pay? Covington Sees Advantages
Covington Partners contend that the pay model is important to the company’s team-based approach to client work and has assisted in luring laterals, despite the potential dangers associated with not tracking origination credits.
Technology & Innovation:
Legal Tech’s Predictions for the Regulation of AI and Technology in 2024
Legal industry experts have made their predictions for the regulation and implementation of artificial intelligence and other technologies in 2024.
Battling Bias In Workplace Predictive A.I.: Challenges for Employers and the Bar
The use of AI in employment has taken the world by storm. AI reflects the world from which it learns and those who create it. However, employers cannot rely on AI tools alone for employee recruitment and management. Proactively mitigating algorithmic bias is not only warranted but, in some forward-thinking jurisdictions, mandatory.
The Case for the Use of E-Discovery Software in All Matters
Lawyers handling every kind of situation, regardless of size or budget, can now more easily use technology thanks to a number of effective platforms that simplify the process.
LinkSquares Announces First Gen AI Capabilities for Redlining, Project Management
AI-Assisted Redlining and AI-Suggested Subtasks are the two new features that will be made available in Q1. The rest of the year will see the release of “many” more generative AI-powered features.
LTN Startup Spotlight: Briefly Founder on Why Legal Information Tech Needs a Rebrand
Startup Briefly is attempting to evolve the way lawyers communicate legal jargon with other teams in their organization by generating legal content in the form of TikTok-like videos.
Can Artificial Intelligence Patents Survive ‘Alice’?
This is the first of a two-part series of articles. This article discusses how It is difficult for anybody trying to patent AI inventions under the existing Alice system. However, as shown by the caselaw, patent drafters and inventors can take precautions to lessen the likelihood that claims made in AI patents will be rejected for being abstract concepts.
Legal Tech’s Predictions for KM, Data Governance & AI Usage in 2024
Experts in the legal sector forecast the state of data governance, knowledge management, and artificial intelligence (AI) in 2024.
AI Adoption Likely to Spark Surge in Corporate Litigation of All Stripes in 2024
Businesses may be accused of antitrust violations if they use AI to assist in pricing decisions, or they may be accused of discriminatory practices if they use AI to screen applicants for available positions.
Legal Tech’s Predictions for Emerging Technologies, Tech Costs & Market Consolidation in 2024
The legal sector projects its expectations for 2024 in a number of areas, including the economy, market consolidation, developing technologies, and technological prices.
SEC Chief Gensler Warns of ‘AI Washing’ and Potential Conflicts of Interest
Gary Gensler has been reported to have said, “If you’re putting the robo adviser’s interest ahead of the broker dealer’s interest ahead of the investor, therein lies a conflict”.
Brazil’s Overwhelmed Judiciary, Desperate for Help, Turns to Artificial Intelligence
Several initiatives have been implemented in Brazilian courts by creative thinkers striving to improve justice in one of the world’s most congested judicial systems.
Stretching the Metaphor—Are Gen AI Copyright Lawsuits Using ‘Winning’ Language?
In copyright disputes against generative AI developers, terms like “memorization,” “generalization,” and even the unusually visceral “regurgitation” have surfaced. When these matters get to court, the use of this type of terminology will be important.
Legal Tech’s Predictions for Legal Education, Lawyer Training & Evolving Legal Roles in 2024
This article is delving into the topics of legal education, lawyer training, and the evolution of legal positions, it also highlights on the predictions that have been provided about the legal sector regarding things to be anticipated in 2024.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Top White House Lawyer Rejoins Covington, as Demand for DEI Advice Grows
Covington’s government litigation practice co-chair Stacey Grigsby will be an “integral resource” for clients dealing with workplace culture and diversity and equity problems, according to the firm.
Law School Admissions Officers Report Concerns About Diversity
Although the Kaplan study revealed that nearly all law schools agree that diversity matters to both administrators and students, an admissions officer who took part in the survey expressed concern that the court’s ruling will have a “chilling effect on applications.”
Market Commentary:
The UK’s Biggest Law Firms Need More Horsepower if They Are to Compete
Though Clifford Chance and Linklaters haven’t been as active as A&O and Freshfields in the US market lately, the Global Lawyer wonders if their most recent adjustments will be sufficient to put them in the running.
Research indicates that working mothers’ morale sharply declines after three months, despite numerous industry efforts to mitigate these effects.
EY Law Plots Sweeping Cuts, 24 UK Roles at Risk
The shocking announcement above contradicts the Big Four firms’ declared goal of more than tripling their size in the UK and Ireland by 2025 and highlights the challenges the auditing behemoths have faced in breaking into the legal sector.
As the Thai Competitive Landscape Shifts, Firms Are Testing Out New Waters
Thai domestic and regional law firms have expanded their global capabilities as a result of an increasing number of Thai enterprises purchasing abroad properties.
Dealmakers Plan to Keep Investing in Private Equity Practices Amid Higher Expectations for 2024
Leading legal firms’ private equity lawyers have made claims that innovative dealmaking could help the efforts to satisfy unmet demands and lead to an increase in transactions.
The Law Firm Disrupted: Working Harder or Working Smarter?
Putting better business” ahead of “more business,” is one thing, but however the real problem seems to be figuring out what “better business” actually entails.
The Time to Do a Transatlantic Merger is Now
According to the Global Lawyer, legal firms that want to compete with Kirkland, Latham, Skadden, and Simpson Thacher may want to think about merging with US companies as global GDP growth slows.
Fides Search is delighted to announce the business is growing and we have four new team members! We are thrilled to have them on board and know they will be great additions to our existing team and the work we are doing for our clients.
🎉 Sershen Ingram – Senior Consultant
🎉 Nathan Simpson – Consultant
🎉 Megan L. Sturdy – Delivery Consultant
🎉 Phoebe Green – Personal Assistant
Please join us in giving them a warm welcome! ⭐
Sershen joins us as a Consultant from a leading global executive search and leadership talent specialist for corporate functions. He specialises in conducting challenging searches for clients who have struggled to attract talent, usually in niche areas of practice or which require specific, hard-to-find skillsets. He has experience across the full spectrum of the Fides offering across a broad range of jurisdictions. He has a core focus on General Counsel and Company Secretary mandates, which is supplemented by law firm Partner searches. Before entering legal search, Sershen qualified as a barrister and worked for a Tier 1 ranked firm in their litigation team on a number of high-profile matters.
Nathan joins us as a Consultant from an international specialist legal recruitment agency, working closely with new and existing clients on search, selection and consultancy mandates. He joins the firm with some exceptional experience in private practice recruitment, assisting law firms with hires at all levels. Outside of work, Nathan is a keen traveller and recently returned from a backpacking trip to New Zealand and Australia.
Megan joins us as a Delivery Consultant from specialist search consultancy focused on the Energy Sector, assisting clients with search and selection, market mapping and due diligence exercises. She grew up in France and is fluent in French and English with full working proficiency across Spanish and Italian. Outside of work, Megan is a keen powerlifter and spends a lot of her free time in the gym. She is also interested in music and art and enjoys visiting galleries regularly.
Phoebe joins us as a Personal Assistant and will be working to support the consultants and head of delivery. Outside of work, Phoebe has a passion for cooking and travelling.
See what Edward Parker, our Managing Director, had to say on this exciting news:
“We are delighted to welcome such great talent into the team. Our growth follows a successful 2023 which saw us grow our Consulting, Due Diligence and Search offering. This investment into the team demonstrates our ambition for further growth. We really look forward to working with Megan, Phoebe, Sershen and Nathan; it’s great to bring such talented people into the business.”
If you would like to get in touch with any member of the Team, please see our Team page: Fides – Team. You can also reach out on: research@fidessearch.com.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Quinn Emanuel London Revenue Leaps 47% as Profits Swell
The firm’s triumph this year was ‘boosted by a material one-off success fee’, claims Richard East, Senior Partner at Quinn Emanuel’s London office.
Duo Score Roles on First London IPO of 2024
This potential IPO is set to be the primary market float in months as London grapples with a decline in its appeal as a destination for companies seeking to go public.
Two former senior government lawyers join Kingsley Napley
Senior government lawyers Natalie Cohen and Lord Carter join Kingsley Napley, strengthening the firm’s public law litigation presence.
Browne Jacobson hires William Darmody to lead corporate team
William Darmody joins Browne Jacobson as partner and head of their Irish corporate team at the UK&I firm.
Taylor Wessing hires Ryan Ferry as disputes and investigations partner
Taylor Wessing’s Dublin office welcomes senior litigator Ryan Ferry as partner.
Millar McCall Wylie appoints Chris Phillips as director
Chris Phillips joins Millar McCall Wylie as director of the Northern Irish firm.
EMEA
Veteran Paul Hastings PE Partner Jumps to French Firm August Debouzy
Paul Hasting’s move could signal a potential increase activity for Paris’ growingly competitive PE market.
Freshfields Finance Head Rejoins A&O in Middle East
Simultaneously, Clifford Chance’s head of disputes for the Middle East is acquired by CMS.
Perez-Llorca Adds Four More Partners in Lisbon
Perez-Llorca is ahead of schedule, having originally planned to launch their Lisbon office in Q1 2024, the Spanish law firm claims to already have 11 partners on the ground.
White & Case Bolsters Disputes Practice in Paris With 2-Lawyer Hire From Quinn Emanuel
This practice head and partner acquisition is set to strengthen the firm’s commercial disputes, cross-border litigation, and criminal investigations offering in Paris.
Kennedys Enters Polish Market Through Tie-Up With Warsaw Firm
Kennedys lands in Warsaw, making them the latest international law firm to expand their European presence to Poland.
CVC Capital Partners’ General Counsel Leaves Firm
Lauren Livingston leaves the European PE heavyweight following a 17-year tenure at the firm.
Bowmans Lures Team of 6 From Johannesburg Competitor
Bowmans team’s client portfolio includes liquidators, corporate entities, financial institutions and business rescue practitioners.
APAC
South Korea’s Shin & Kim Hires Senior Advisers to Launch New Offering on AI
Two Shin & Kim new hires join the group of three experienced advisers leading their latest offering.
K&L Gates Takes Two from Herbert Smith Freehills Singapore
With these latest appointments in Singapore, the firm welcomes its first aviation finance partners in the city-state. Meanwhile, Herbert Smith Freehills restructures their aviation offering, saying goodbye to their dedicated Singapore-based partners.
Clayton Utz Partner Leaves to Join Australian Insurer IAG
Karen Ingram, a disputes and litigation lawyer, joins IAG as interim general counsel.
Kirkland Corporate Veteran Duo Set to Leave Hong Kong Practice
Having joined Kirkland along with six partners in 2011, forming one of the most significant moves in Hong Kong’s legal market, David Zhang and Nicholas Norris are due to exit the practice.
Akin Hong Kong Partner Leaves to Become Independent Arbitrator
Shortly after the closure of Akin’s Beijing office, Ing Loong Yang departs the firm.
The Americas
Shearman’s Co-Managing Partner Leads Team Move to Linklaters in New York
Allen & Overy leaders set to take charge of the firm as George Casey’s team of six depart ahead of merger.
Longtime Vinson & Elkins Partner Moves to Condemnation Boutique in Houston
Charles McFarland is reunited with Vinson & Elkins partner and ex-colleague Billy Coe Dyer, at the condemnation boutique established by the former in 2015.
Dechert Loses 2 Litigation Partners Who Held Leadership Roles
David Kelley, ex-SDNY U.S. attorney and former co-head of Dechert’s white-collar practice joins O’Melveny & Myers, while chair of their tech committee, Benjamin Barnet was welcomed by Seeger Weiss.
Blank Rome Adds 5 Attorneys from Dissolving NYC White Collar Boutique
Established by two ex-SDNY assistant U.S attorneys 17 years ago, Spears & Imes terminated operations in Q4 of 2023.
Duane Morris Appoints Ex-US Attorney McSwain White-Collar Co-Chair
Duane Morris welcomes William McSwain, ex-federal prosecutor into a new role as the co-chair of their white-collar practice as they set their sights on national growth for the upcoming year.
Locke Lord Adds M&A Partner in LA With High-Profile Entertainment Clients
Locke Lord welcome Corporate and M&A partner Katy Spillers from L.A firm Greenberg Glusker Fields Claman & Machtinger as she hopes to benefit her clients with the firm’s wider resources and national coverage.
SDNY Prosecutor Moves to Sher Tremonte’s White-Collar Practice
Previously, Alison Moe was deputy chief of the U.S Attorney Office’s criminal division.
Greenspoon Marder Expands Litigation Arm in Miami With Former Saul Ewing Litigator
With previous tenures at Cozen O’Connor and Greenberg Traurig, Jeffrey Gilbert approaches almost forty years of experience in the sector.
On the Move: Former Gordon Rees Office Leader Moves to Barnes & Thornburg
Previously, Leslie served Gordon Rees’ as managing partner of its offices in Birmingham, Alabama and Jackson, Mississippi as well as co-managing partner of their Atlanta office.
Eyeing Rate Flexibility, Longtime Sidley Litigator Decamps to Midsize Manhattan Firm
Isaac Greaney, a well-known Securities litigator, has left Sidley to expand the types of work available to him as a result of more flexible rates.
Dinsmore Enters Texas by Luring 8-Lawyer Litigation Team From Lewis Brisbois
Following the rapid expansion of the Am Law 200 firm, in Florida, Dinsmore & Shohl has stated that it is applying a similar “blueprint” for Texas. This news is in accordance with the statement of their Chair, Josh Lorentz.
Dickinson Wright Scoops Up 10-Lawyer Toronto Team from Minden Gross
The U.S.-based firm’s Canadian office is anticipating the arrival of a full team of lawyers and support staff from Minden Gross.
In-House
Legal Chief at Silicon Valley Pioneer Exiting After Quarter Century with Company
According to Western Digital, Michael Ray is stepping aside “to pursue another opportunity,” this news follows the revelation that Western Digital is preparing to split itself into two.
ALM’s Grezlak Joins Furia Rubel as Legal Marketing Firm Expands Services
Grezlak joined Furia Rubel last week after an extensive career working at ALM, parent company of The Legal, for 30 years. Most recently he was editor-in-chief of legal themes, regional brands and Law.com, overseeing ALM’s U.S.-based legal newsroom.
Sony Pictures General Counsel to Exit After Three Decades with Media Giant
During her time at Sony, Leah Weil assisted the media giant in acquiring IP rights to Spiderman for a mere $7 million, obtaining MGM for $2.9 billion and recovering from a crippling 2014 cyberattack as well as much more.
GC of Liquor Juggernaut Passing Legal Reins to Deputy
After a 16-year run as legal chief of Brown-Forman, which owns the Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve brands, Matt Hammel is retiring.
HP Enterprise Veteran to Captain Legal Team at Cargo Shipper Cargill
Rishi Varma, who has been part of the team at HP Enterprise since it was borne of the computing giant in 2015, will take the legal reins over at Cargill.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—Jan. 9, 2024—Hangley Aronchick
Hangley Aronchick Segal Pudlin & Schiller is delighted to have elected Colleen Norcross as a shareholder.
King & Spalding Re-elects Robert Hays to Seventh Term as Chairman
Since Robert Hays took up the mantle of chairman of the firm in 2006, they have more than tripled its revenues and profitability and multiplied the number of offices they operates worldwide by four times.
Axinn Names DC-Based Antitrust Partner as Next Leader
The 100-lawyer firm, which is well known for its antitrust and litigation expertise, has represented numerous firms such Google, Tyson Foods, Ball Corp., Thermo Fisher Scientific and VMware. They have named Jeny Maier as their next managing partner.
People in the News—Jan. 10, 2024—Capehart Scatchard, Ogletree Deakins, Munley
Capehart Scatchard has announced that, Brian P. Berkoff; Daniel W. Klementowski; Vivian Marmaras; and Nicholas D. Stephens, who are from the firm’s workers’ compensation department, have been admitted as shareholders:
Hrelic, Marafito and Zeid Promoted to Members at Pullman & Comley
Dana Hrelic, Michael Marafito and Zachary Zeid have ascended to the position of members from the professional liability, property tax and employment law practices.
Hopeful on 2024 Market, Klehr Harrison Appoints New Real Estate Leaders
Klehr Harrison managing partner Brad Krouse stated that “These are three leaders with separate skillsets that really complement each other,” he also said that “They’re leaders in their respective practice areas, which ultimately gives us a much broader reach at the leadership level.”
Buchanan Taps Real Estate and Bankruptcy Chair as Next CEO
Pittsburgh-based shareholder James Newell will take over from Philadelphia-based Joe Dougherty in May.
M&A Lawyer Takes Second Turn as Global Chair for Norton Rose Fulbright
Walied Soliman has previously served as global chair in 2019 and has been chair of the firm’s Canadian arm since 2017.
Mergers & Alliances:
Texas-Based Ferguson Braswell Launches in Orange County Via Merger
Kyle Ferguson, CEO of Ferguson Braswell has stated the firm’s goals, which are to establish a full-service office in Costa Mesa, where there is a “strong middle-market industry” and “a lot of wealth and opportunity.”
Paladin Rings in 2024 With Pro Bono Manager Acquisition, New Partnership
This Pro Bono Manager has highlighted Paladin’s first-ever acquisition and will provide the company with the opportunity to expand its network and access more pro bono data and insights.
Barclay Damon Combines With DC-Based Shapiro, Lifschitz & Schram
Barclay Damon has been keen on the idea of expanding its footprint in the D.C. market for a considerable amount of time in an effort to advance the firm’s regulatory experience at the federal level.
Kilpatrick Merges With Chicago Law Firm, Significantly Expanding Corporate Practice
Henry Walker, CEO of Kilpatrick said that HMB’s expertise in mergers and acquisitions and private equity “enhances the depth and breadth of Kilpatrick’s corporate department,” Henry is ranked No. 90 in the Am Law 100.
Office Openings & Closing:
More Law Firms in New York Opt for Larger Spaces
Paul Weiss and King & Spalding are among the latest firms to secure new, larger spaces in New York.
Pace of Law Firm Office Leasing Picked Up in Late 2023, With More Firms Shedding Space
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner decreased its space by 73% by shedding two full floors, after acquiring a new office lease in D.C.
Cozen O’Connor Launches DEI Strategies and Solutions Practice
Group leader Simeon Brier has been reported as saying, “One of the fundamental things that we receive are clients who have solely relied on a law firm or solely relied on a consultant,” Simon Brier is based in South Florida and followed up his previous statement saying, “It’s hard to operate with the left arm not knowing what the right arm is doing.”
Marc Mukasey’s Law Firm Announces Rebrand as Mukasey Young
This change is occurring after co-founder Robert Frenchman departed and Torrey Young has been elevated to a name partner.
Financials:
As Billing Rates Soar, Law Firm Clients Move to Spread Work Around
According to a new industry report, “Many law firms have seen their ability to collect on those increasing rates falter, and clients have become more aggressive about trying to tier work to lower-cost firms”.
Top Big Law Partners Are Earning More Than $2,400 Per Hour, as Rates Continue to Climb
According to recent bankruptcy court filings, Dechert has been reported as increasing rates for top partners by 20%, while McDermott is charging top partners out at $2,590 hourly.
Law Firms Embracing ‘Hoteling’ to Save On Office Lease Costs
Workplace strategies in many law firms have been shifting; flexibility, balance, space efficiency, and attorneys/staff that work remotely more than pre-pandemic are gaining relative normality.
Paul Weiss Hides Partner Pay Inside ‘Black Box,’ as Firm Shells Out for Top Laterals
A non-transparent pay system has been adopted as firm leaders seek to decrease internal tensions as the spread of compensation develops.
Associates See a Pay Boost at Largest Law Firms, but Few May Match in Atlanta
Both Alston & Bird and King & Spalding are increasing associate pay to the top market scale, however other Atlanta-based law firms have not been confirmed to be doing the same.
Quinn Emanuel London partner profit averages £5.3m in stellar year
Quinn Emanuel’s average London partner profit has increased to £5.3m in 2023. This increase is congruent with the standout year the US litigation law firm have had.
Technology & Innovation:
Are Tomorrow’s Lawyers Prepared for Legal’s Tech Future? 4 Recent Trends Shaping Legal Education?
Advanced legal technology means little if attorneys don’t know how to use it. Whilst some key law schools are impacting change in efforts to mitigate that issue, others are falling behind in this particular area.
Automation and Algorithms: How Pierson Ferdinand Aims to Build a New Type of Law Firm
Pierson Ferdinand, a new law firm which has been launched by the managing partners from FisherBroyles recently, has sought to build legacy systems that can stay flexible enough to accommodate future needs, and automate as much non-billable work as efficiently possible.
The EU AI Act Will Transform Practices for AI Governance In the U.S.
The EU AI Act sets in writing one of the world’s first comprehensive attempts to provide governance to unlock innovation in AI. But this beckons a question that has been in the forefront of the mind of many US firms and practices, what exactly does this development mean for their businesses?
A Tale of Two Nations: How China and the United States Confront Generative AI Challenges
Legislative bodies across the world have exercised their authority to harness GenAI’s transformative power and mitigate potential risks. This divergence is exceedingly clear when we compare the GenAI laws enacted in the People’s Republic of China with the growing efforts of President Biden and Congress to react to these new challenges.
Generative AI May Be in the Spotlight, but Search Terms Still Dominate in E-Discovery
Generative AI tools are becoming more and more popular, subsequently they should be researched, studied, and ultimately embraced if proven for their ability to assist lawyers with legal tasks, however, they first must be properly and accurately trained, tested, and verified.
Diversity & Inclusion:
More Judges, Less Diversity: 92% of Kemp’s 2023 Judicial Appointments Are White
Minorities have been stated to account for 8% of state court or higher judicial appointments made by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2023. This figure is a sharp drop from 30% in 2022.
Women in Academic Leadership Still Face Systemic Barriers
“The legal academy was not built for anyone other than white males,” this was a statement made by Nicola Boothe, dean of the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, during the AALS session. She followed that statement up by saying that “there are always going to be opportunities for us to feel that we do not belong in this space.”
Many Companies Doubling Down on DEI Despite Backlash
A new study by Littler Mendelson found that companies are determined to press on with their DEI initiatives, however it also found that companies are avoiding “legally thorny” practices, for example providing incentives to executives to advance diversity.
St. John’s Law Names First Black Dean To Succeed Longtime Dean Michael Simons
The incumbent dean Jelani Jefferson Exum said in a statement, “I’m honored to serve as the next dean of St. John’s Law”.
Women Make Up the Majority of Associates for First Time
Based on figures which have been broken down in accordance to geographical location, Miami holds one of the highest percentages of female associates, their numbers constitute 55% of the associate population, Phoenix comes in at a close second, with 54% women associates, while St. Louis trailed behind in last place.
Combating the Tide of Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws and Regulations
The chair of the LGBTQ+ Law Section, Samuel W. Buchbauer, stated that “Providing a state-wide community for LGBTQ+ identified legal professionals and allies through CLE programming, live events and advocacy work strengthens our Section’s purpose to promote equality in the law for LGBTQ+ people”.
Taking Steps to Combat Antisemitism and Anti-Asian Hate
The co-chairs of the Task Force on Combating Antisemitism and Anti-Asian Hate, Brian S. Cohen and Vince Chang have been reported as saying that their “task force has focused on statutory changes to address the hate crimes crisis and the problem of Internet hate speech, responses to the underreporting of hate crimes and an educational initiative to combat racial harassment and discrimination in schools”.
Market Commentary:
How Effective are Legal Networks in the African Market?
Local firms are joining independent networks in order to remain competitive in the face of international competition, however many experts disagree on the usefulness of these legal networks.
Well-Being and Engagement: Why a Firm Needs to Prioritize Both
This article discusses the balancing of two key areas of importance namely that Law firm leaders must keep in mind the concept of engagement to create a healthy, high-achieving work environment. It discusses how “wellness and engagement are not interchangeable terms”.
In-House Lawyers May Get Chance to Dust Off Their Dealmaking Prowess in 2024
In a new report that has been published, Morrison & Foerster have been reported as saying that “Savvy companies … are expected to look for ways to effect strategies for growth, including by expanding product lines, and to enhance performance, including by divestitures, in the face of technological and other disruptions,”.
Sullivan & Cromwell Led 2023 M&A Activity in Latin America
The firm is New York-based but also ranked high in the Caribbean despite last year being a slow year globally for cross-border transactions.
Clifford Chance Mulls Lockstep Change to Better Reward Top Performers
The anticipated change is projected to help it to retain its strongest performers in an increasingly monied hiring market, many might suggest that this is an important move for them as recently, star talent has been exiting the firm.
DLA Piper leads global M&A for 14th consecutive year
According to Mergermarket’s league tables, DLA Piper is the highest-ranked legal advisor in the world for M&A deal volume they have received this accolade for the 14th consecutive year. Despite a down market for global M&A in 2023, DLA Piper continued to gain market share and completed more deals than any other firm.