Moves
UK & Ireland
Milbank hires Paul Hastings duo for real estate finance launch
Milbank hires Paul Hastings duo Miles Flynn and Rehan Hanif to kickstart a real estate finance offering in the City.
Skadden hires Goodwin tax partner
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom has appointed a Goodwin partner Katie Leah to its tax practice in London.
Ashurst invests in disputes with London partner hire from Norton Rose Fulbright
Ashurst has hired employed barrister Harriet Jones-Fenleigh as a partner in its litigation and investigations team from Norton Rose Fulbright in London.
Pinsents boosts City corporate bench with Partners from Ashurst and HSF Kramer
Pinsent Masons has strengthened its London corporate team by hiring two new partners: Nicholas Holmes, formerly head of the equity capital markets team at Ashurst, and Dinesh Banani, of HSF Kramer. At Pinsent’s, Holmes will head up the ECM practice and Banani will lead the firm’s US securities practice.
Mayer Brown turns to Goodwin for PE partner
Mayer Brown has hired private equity partner Tessa Agar from Goodwin Procter in London.
A&L Goodbody welcomes tax partner Trevor Glavey
A&L Goodbody LLP has appointed Trevor Glavey as a partner in the firm’s tax practice, joining from local competitor Matherson in Dublin.
Americas
Weil continues US litigation build-out with Cooley partner hire in Boston
Weil Gotshal & Manges has hired first-chair trial lawyer Adam Gershenson from Cooley to bolster its litigation department in Boston. He becomes Weil’s 14th litigation partner hire since the start of 2025.
Former California Solicitor General Michael Mongan Joins WilmerHale
One of the nation’s top appellate litigators Michael Mongan, will join WilmerHale’s Appellate and Supreme Court Litigation Group as a Partner later this year.
White & Case Expands Global Energy M&A Team, Adds Akin Partner in Houston
White & Case hired Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld project development and finance partner Ian Goldberg in Houston.
Cooley Adds 3 Life Sciences Lawyers in Boston, San Francisco
Partners Sarah Hogan and Jenna Ventorino join the firm from Wilmer Hale, while partner Stephen Abreu was recruited from Sidley Austin.
EMEA
Wolfgang A. Maschek Joins Covington as Head of the European Public Policy Practice
Wolfgang A. Maschek has joined Covington in Brussels from Squire Patton Boggs to spearhead the firm’s Public Policy Practice in Europe.
Hoffmann Eitle welcomes new Partner Dr Thomas Gniadek from Simmons & Simmons
Dr Thomas Gniadek joins HOFFMANN EITLE as a partner and co-chair of the firm’s patent litigation group in Munich.
APAC
Australia’s Gilbert + Tobin takes Second Disputes Partner from Jones Day
Australian law firm Gilbert + Tobin has hired another partner from Jones Day as it seeks to expand its disputes practice. Sydney-based Holly Sara is soon to join the firm.
Bird & Bird strengthens hospitality offering with new co-head
Bird & Bird has hired Andrew MacGeoch as partner and Asia-Pacific co-head of hotels, hospitality and leisure to boost its real estate and hospitality offering in Singapore. MacGeoch joins after eight years as a partner at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) in Hong Kong.
In house
Tesco hires BT lawyer as GC of its UK and Ireland business
UK supermarket giant Tesco has hired Jeff Langlands as general counsel of its UK and Republic of Ireland business, working alongside group GC Kay Majid. Langlands joins from BT Group, where most recently he was GC for its corporate, digital and networks division.
Gibson Dunn Partner Exits for Disney Deputy GC Role
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher partner Rosemarie Ring—who has represented top technology companies, including Meta—is joining The Walt Disney Co. as a deputy General Counsel.
Team Moves
Weil adds six PE lawyers in Germany from Latham & Watkins
Weil has hired six private equity lawyers from Latham & Watkins in Germany over the past week, as it moves to build a leading pan-European private equity team. Following the appointment of Sebastian Pauls and Susanne Decker last week, Andreas Holzgreve and Julia Schöfer have also joined the firm as a partner and counsel, with two further associates also making the move.
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer hires Partner-Led Banking Team at BonelliErede
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer has snapped up BonelliErede’s Rome-based banking and finance partner Emanuela Da Rin along with her team of four lawyers. Meanwhile, BonelliErede strikes back with three-partner hire from Gatti Pavesi with Maria Cristina (Corporate/M&A), Andrea Novarese and Francesco Pirisi (Restructuring & Insolvency) making the move.
Greenberg Traurig adds five shareholders in Singapore from trio of firms
Greenberg Traurig (GT) has added five shareholders in Singapore, including Simmons & Simmons’ former Asia head of funds Jek Aun Long. He is joined by fellow funds lawyers Benedict Tan and Joshua Heng, with Greenburg also securing White & Case M&A specialist Kyle Oh and Ashurst energy and natural resources lawyer Stella Bae, both of whom are relocating from Seoul.
Seyfarth Adds Structured Finance Co-Chair With Group Hire From Arnold & Porter
Seyfarth Shaw hires Henry Morriello from Arnold & Portner who will become co-chair of Seyfarth’s structured finance group. He will be joined by Karsten Giesecke and Michael Karol will work as Counsels in the group.
Sports Law Boutique Northridge hires team from Bird & Bird
Bird & Bird partner Claire Barker has joined Northridge, along with managing associate Toby Cooper in London.
Promotions & Appointments
Seward & Kissel Names First New Chair in 11 Years
New York law firm Seward & Kissel has elected a new firm chair, investment management partner Daniel Bresler, who will succeed James Cofer in February 2026
SDNY Alum Mónica Folch Joins Free and Fair Litigation Group
New York’s Southern District Attorney Monica Folch served as a prosecutor for more than a decade, during which she worked on some of the biggest civil enforcement cases in the country. She moves to Free and Fair, a a not-for-profit founded in 2023 with the goal of combating authoritarianism in the United States.
Wasserman appoints Christa D’Alimonte as chief legal officer from Paramount
Mike Pickles, Wasserman’s current chief legal officer, will be retiring from the company and will assist with D’Alimonte’s transition into the role through the end of the year.
Ashurst’s Financial Regulation Partner Timothy Cant appointed to FCA’s Markets Practitioner Panel
The Panel is an independent statutory body, set up to provide advice and challenge from the point of view of financial market participants.
Kirkland elevates 23 lawyers in the City
Kirkland & Ellis has made up 23 lawyers to partner in the City, with the firm deciding not to publicly announce its promotion round this year. Those promoted this year include:
Adrian Kilercioglu, William Taylor, Philipp Engel, Arran Kandola, Sebastien Clisson, Richard Hughes, Shaun Chung, George Rawlinson, Carmella Crinnion, Bonian Wu, Toshi Mahaptra, Jelani Okoruwa, James Whybrow, Mai Huynh, Ken Au, Lynette Janssen, Krista Sirola, Christian Elliott, Cosmos Fung, Beatriz Capeloa Gil, Frankie Beetham, Jenni Polson, Corina Demeter-Olive.
Covington promotes 14 lawyers to Partner
Covington has promoted 14 lawyers to partnership, based in Brussels, Los Angeles, London, New York, and Washington. Antonio Michaelides was the sole partner promoted in London.
Office Openings, Closings and Expansions
Freshfields strengthens regional presence with partner relocation to Riyadh
Freshfields has strengthened its regional presence with the relocation of a partner Olivier Rogivue from Paris to Riyadh.
Mayer Brown relocates leading Finance Partner to Dubai Office
Finance partner Ashley McDermott has relocated to Mayer Brown’s Dubai office, bringing almost 20 years of syndicated loan financing experience to the region.
Mergers & Alliances
Inside A&O Shearman’s partner exits: the practices and offices most impacted
Since the Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling merger was announced in May 2023, over 170 partners have departed, with more than a third of these exits occurring in the US. Legal Business research shows that 130 partners have left since the merger officially went live in May 2024, equating to about one in six partners leaving the firm.
Financials
Another UK200 firm secures private equity investment
South East firm Greenwoods has secured equity investment from Gresham House Ventures.
Technology & Innovation
Hengeler Launches Harvey Legal AI Firm-Wide
Hengeler Mueller is rolling out AI legal tool Harvey firm wide, marking a shift from experimentation to adoption at the European M&A powerhouse. Harvey has raised €50 million from Swedish investment firm EQT, marking major backing from a European investor.
Cooley invests in AI law firm Crosby
US firm Cooley has invested in hybrid AI legal outfit Crosby as part of its latest funding round. Crosby specialises in reviewing contracts, “combining the speed and intelligence of AI with the safety of lawyers-in-the-loop to review contracts in under an hour.”
Opus 2 doubles down on AI with Dutch start-up acquisition
Opus 2 has acquired legaltech company Uncover in a bid to expand artificial intelligence within its litigation and arbitration platform. Applying generative AI to litigation workflows, Uncover’s software uses large language models to organise and summarise case documents, and to support search and analysis across case files.
Market Commentary
DLA has made partnership meaningless
Recent analysis highlights a significant shift in partnership structures at major law firms including DLA Piper, Norton Rose Fulbright, and Hogan Lovells. These firms are increasingly expanding their ranks of salary partners while reducing the number of equity partners, reflecting a broader view within the legal industry to adjust partnership models, potentially impacting firm culture, profit distribution, and career progression for lawyers.
Decision time for Ashurst and Taylor Wessing
Analysis from The Lawyer investigating the expansion of UK heritage firms across the Atlantic.
Magic circle trio among 25 firms appointed to Government roster
The Government Legal Department (GLD) has named the 25 firms that have won places on its refreshed panel, previously valued at £820m. The roster will bring together three existing Government panels under one consolidated group.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Law Society president outlines lawyer welfare and inclusion priorities in inauguration speech
Property lawyer and university lecturer Mark Evans commits to supporting the next generation of solicitors, emphasizing inclusivity and opportunity for all backgrounds in his commencement speech as the 181st president of the Law Society of England and Wales.
LawCare’s Life in the Law 2025 report found that nearly 60% of respondents reported poor mental wellbeing, while almost 79% regularly worked beyond their contracted hours. Some 56% said they could see themselves leaving their current workplace within the next five years, with 32% reporting they could leave the sector entirely.
UK law firms lead responsible business index as US firms slide – study
UK law firms are outperforming their transatlantic peers on responsible business activity according to a report published by Lamp House and Chambers and Partners. Clyde & Co, DWF, Pinsent Masons, Simmons & Simmons and Taylor Wessing topped the index, with UK top 100 firm scores rising 12% on 2024 levels, compared to a 30% drop for top 50 US firms. UK-headquartered firms’ average score was double that of their US counterparts, with firms ranked on their responsible business activity related to people, planet and governance.
Moves
UK & Ireland
Pinsents ramps up City push with corporate partner duo
Pinsent Masons has continued its hiring spree with the addition of two corporate partners in London. Nicholas Holmes joins from Ashurst to lead the firm’s equity capital markets (ECM) practice, while Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer partner Dinesh Banani arrives to head up US securities.
Commercial Litigation Partner Christian Tuddenham is making the move after spending over a decade at Jenner & Block.
Kirkland & Ellis hires new international GC
Justine Cowling, formerly general counsel at Bryan Cave Leighton & Paisner, joins the firm.
Stephenson Harwood Hires Partner Duo from Bird & Bird and Reed Smith
Real Estate Partner John Danahy joins Stephenson Harwood, alongside Marine and Trade Disputes Partner Nick Austin. The latest hires bring the firm’s total number of London lateral additions up to 16 so far in 2025.
Latham & Watkins Hires Simmons London IP Partner
Latham & Watkins has expanded its healthcare and life sciences practice in London with the appointment of Lydia Thorne from Simmons & Simmons.
TLT welcomes three new partners in Belfast
TLT has welcomed three new partners to its Belfast office, with Orla Hanna joining from DWF and Nuala Maguire moving from Eversheds Sutherland. They join recently-appointed partner Jonathan O’Hagan.
EMEA
Weil sets out leadership succession in Germany with Latham hires
Weil Gotshal & Manges has added to its European private equity platform with the hire of two partners from Latham & Watkins, as long-serving Frankfurt veteran Gerhard Schmidt prepares to retire. Private equity specialist Sebastian Pauls will join Weil as co-managing partner of Weil’s German offices in Munich and Frankfurt and is joined by fellow private equity partner Susanne Decker.
Reed Smith, A&O Shearman see trio of German partners exit Big Law for independent practice
Friedrich Graf von Westphalen gains real estate partners Martin Meissner and Cihangir Agdemir, from Reed Smith in Frankfurt, while A&O loses arbitration partner Anna Masser to newly minted disputes boutique in Hamburg.
Americas
Simpson hires Barclays M&A Pro
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has hired Christopher Ludwig from Barclays to lead its shareholder engagement and activism defense group as a partner in the mergers and acquisitions practice in New York. Ludwig has two years of experience at Barclays as a managing director and head of shareholder advisory services.
Private Client Partner Returns to Morgan Lewis After 11 Years as Family Office GC
Partner John Boxer returns to Morgan Lewis after serving as general counsel and chief operating officer of Metropolitan Wealth Management LLC, a private, multifamily office, for 11 years.
Buchalter Expands Corporate Practice in Atlanta
Buchalter grows the Corporate Practice Group in Atlanta with the hire of Jonathan Wilson and Mitzi Hill from Taylor Duma.
APAC
Korea’s Yoon & Yang continues expansion with partner duo from LAB
Korean Big Six law firm Yoon & Yang has kept up its hiring streak after welcoming PE/VC-focused partners Young Ju Kim and Min Joo Kim from smaller rival LAB Partners.
Ashurst grows Tokyo energy offering with hire from Anderson Mori
Global law firm Ashurst has hired James Hearne as a partner in its projects and energy transition practice in Tokyo from Anderson Mori & Tomotsune, where he was a special counsel.
Team Moves
CANDEY team spins off to launch new disputes boutique
Partners James Collins and Yuri Botiuk launch Collins Botiuk, with William Stewart-Parker, Yuliya Luy and Saujanya Vinayy also joining the team.
Norton Rose Fulbright welcomes Saudi Banking and Finance Team from Addleshaw
Norton Rose Fulbright is boosting its Middle East banking and finance practice with the hiring of an Addleshaw Goddard banking team led by partner Amar Meher.
Philip Lee recruits former Eversheds Sutherland head Alan Connell
Philip Lee LLP has recruited Alan Connell, formerly managing partner and head of tax at Eversheds Sutherland Ireland, as a senior partner in the firm’s tax practice.
In house
Deloitte expands Legal Team in Germany with a hire from Grant Thornton
Regulatory and investment lawyer Dario Jüttner makes the move to accounting competitor in Frankfurt
Promotions & Appointments
Goodwin, Covington Scale Back in London in Latest Partner Promotions
Goodwin Procter and Covington & Burling have announced their partner promotions for 2025, with both firms adding two new partners in London.
US packaging business Greif appoints only second GC in 148-year history
US industrial packaging business Greif has promoted deputy general counsel Dennis Hoffman to the GC role, replacing Gary Martz who is retiring at the end of next month.
Alcohol Giant Constellation Brands Signals Continuity by Promoting Rising Star to CLO
Constellation Brands is undergoing a leadership change, with Jim Bourdeau retiring as Chief Legal Officer (CLO) on February 28, 2026. He will be succeeded by Jeff LaBarge, who will take over the CLO role effective March 1, 2026.
Hogan Lovells Appoints New APAC Head
Hong Kong banking and finance partner Owen Chan has been appointed regional managing partner for the firm’s Asia Pacific practice, succeeding firm CEO Miguel Zaldivar.
Withers names first new CEO in a quarter of a century
Withers has appointed Ceri Voke, a private client and tax partner as its next chief executive officer (CEO), effective 1 July 2026.
Office Openings & Closing
Greenberg Traurig adds Latham partner duo for Abu Dhabi debut
Firm opens 50th global office with financing and restructuring partner Christian Adams and M&A partner Chris Lester.
Mori Hamada set to become latest Japanese firm to launch in London
Japanese law firm Mori Hamada & Matsumoto announced plans to establish a London office in 2026, marking the latest expansion by a major Japanese legal practice into the UK capital as cross-border dealmaking activity intensifies.
Schoenherr relocates partner to head new City operation
Austrian firm Schoenherr has expanded its network by opening a liaison office in London headed by Arbitration partner Sebastian Lukic.
Kaur Sutherland opens new Glasgow office
Law firm Kaur Sutherland has opened a new branch on Queen Margaret Drive in Glasgow’s west end.
Mergers & Alliances
Sheppard Mullin plots new brand amid UK merger speculation
Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton has filed an application to change its name and logo amid market speculation around its merger discussions with UK firms. The United States Patent and Trademark Office features an application for the California-headquartered firm to change its registered name to ‘Sheppard’.
Japan’s Miura doubles down on SE Asia with Thai, Philippine alliances
Japanese law firm Miura & Partners has continued on its ambitious global expansion strategy after inking alliances with two Southeast Asian outfits: Kudun and Partners in Thailand and Feria Tantoco Daos in the Philippines.
Technology & Innovation
Legaltech Eve hits $1bn valuation in latest funding round
Eve, an AI platform for claimant firms, has raised $103m in its latest funding round at a $1bn valuation. There are now over 450 firms using its platform, which has processed over 200,000 cases and helped in the recovery of over $3.5bn for clients in settlements or judgments.
Private Equity Management Startup PortOptix Launches Gen AI Platform
A team of M&A and legal tech professionals including NexLP founder Jay Leib, have banded together to build a platform that assists private equity firms with portfolio management.
AI Data Centers Push Talent Race in Big Law Energy Practices
As artificial intelligence technology rapidly expands, Big Law attorneys specialising in energy and infrastructure are increasingly involved in legal work related to AI data centres. Many energy lawyers now dedicate a significant portion of their time to addressing the power needs of these facilities. “Half of my week is spent on data centre issues,” said Jeffrey Jakubiak, an energy regulatory partner at Vinson & Elkins.
Diversity & Inclusion
Public bodies failing to promote equality
Public bodies are failing to deliver on their duties of advancing equality of opportunity and fostering good relations between different groups, according to a new report from Holyrood’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee.
Columbian Lawyers Association Honors the Judiciary at Annual Event
The Columbian Lawyers Association recently honored the judiciary at its annual event, celebrating distinguished judges and their contributions to the legal community.
OUTLaw Network to mark National Coming Out Day
The OUTLaw Network is to mark National Coming Out Day 2025 with a special breakfast event
Rights watchdog appoints 10 members to disability advisory committee
The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission has appointed 10 new members to its disability advisory committee.
Market Commentary.
Belgian and UK law societies agree cross-border practice rights deal
UK law societies and Bar associations have agreed on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to facilitate the practice of UK lawyers in Belgium alongside their Belgian counterparts, benefiting commercial lawyers operating in the EU capital.
The Lawyer Global 200 Released
The Top 100 of The Lawyer‘s UK 200 rankings has been released, revealing insights into financial and structural growth alongside peer analysis.
Legal 500 UK Rankings Released
Nearly 1,200 law firms have secured a place in the new Legal 500 UK rankings after months of research into legal markets across the country.
DLA Piper Ups In-Office Attendance to 3 Days A Week
DLA Piper, the third-largest law firm globally, is now requiring its people in its non-U.S. offices to attend the office a minimum of three days a week.
UK Legal recruitment soars in Q2 2025: Litigation at the forefront, Real Estate on the rise
In Q2 2025, the UK legal market recorded 2,779 hires – a significant increase on the previous quarter’s 1,493. This surge, which includes unaffiliated lawyers and those joining smaller or niche firms, reflects both continued demand for talent and the intensifying pace of recruitment across the sector.
Latham & Watkins Leads Big Law in M&A Deal Volume for Q3
Latham & Watkins was the Big Law firm with the most M&A deal volume and highest percentage of global market share for the first nine months of the year
Moves
UK & Ireland
Brick Court bolsters senior clerking team with rare hire from Fountain Court
Brick Court has bolstered its clerking team with the hire of Fountain Court Chambers deputy senior clerk, Katie Szewczyk, in a rare lateral move between the rival commercial sets.
Sullivan & Worcester has hired trade finance partner Robert Parson from Squire Patton Boggs as a Trade Finance Partner in London.
Dentons recruits Brian Clarke as Dublin disputes partner | Irish Legal News
Global law firm Dentons has appointed experienced commercial litigator Brian Clarke as a partner in Dublin. He joins from Maples Group.
Shoosmiths grows emerging companies and venture capital offering with new corporate partner
Shoosmiths has announced the appointment of VC specialist Geoff Dragon to the firm’s corporate practice.
Penningtons Manches Cooper hires a new Partner in Real Estate
Leading law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper has appointed Sarah Finch as a partner in its fast growing real estate disputes team.
Law firm strengthens tech and digital health expertise with latest partner appointment
Commercial law firm Bevan Brittan has boosted its technology and digital health expertise with the appointment of a new specialist partner. Brett Lambe, who joins from Ashfords, has more than 15 years of experience in the technology and digital health sectors.
Americas
Ontier Appoints Michael Mena as Managing Partner of Its Miami Office
The international business law firm Ontier announced the appointment of Michael O. Mena as Managing Partner of its Miami office, from where he will lead the firm’s U.S. strategy and strengthen its ability to support clients in cross-border transactions and litigation between Europe, Latin America, and the United States.
Squire Patton Boggs makes twin transatlantic structured finance hire from Reed Smith
Squire Patton Boggs (SPB) has hired two structured finance lawyers from Reed Smith in New York and London to bolster its transatlantic finance capabilities. Trish O’Donnell joins the firm in New York as a partner, while Nathan Menon joins in London as a director.
Stewarts hires family law silk from 4 Paper Buildings to head up specialist children’s team
Stewarts has hired leading family law silk Alex Verdan KC from 4 Paper Buildings (4PB) to head its specialist children’s team.
HSF Kramer marks first US partner hire since merger
Burr Eckstut has joined the firm in New York as head of its US technology transactions practice and a partner in its corporate group. has joined the firm in New York as head of its US technology transactions practice and a partner in its corporate group. He joins from White & Case.
EMEA
Milbank hires new Partner in Frankfurt Office
Jan Häller has joined Milbank’s Frankfurt office as a partner in our Corporate/M&A practice. He joins from Hengeller Mueller.
Osborne Clarke hires Paris practice head
London-headquartered firm Osborne Clarke has hired Jessica Madesclair from Paris boutique HMN & Partners to lead its international arbitration practice in the French capital. Madesclair joins from HMN.
APAC
Goodwin hires investment funds expert in HK from Gibson Dunn
U.S. law firm Goodwin Procter has grown its private investment funds offering in Hong Kong with the hire of Youjung Byon as a partner from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, where she was an of counsel.
Korea’s Yoon & Yang bolsters antitrust practice with hires from BKL, KFTC
South Korean law firm Yoon & Yang has hired veteran antitrust lawyer Keum Seok Oh as partner and former Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) commissioner Yeong Ho Shin as senior advisor, strengthening its competition law practice.
Singapore’s Oon & Bazul hires lit partner from Davinder Singh Chambers
Singapore law firm Oon & Bazul has appointed Sngeeta Rai as a partner in its dispute resolution practice from Davinder Singh Chambers, where she served as a director.
NRF Asia fintech head joins Reed Smith as partner
U.S. law firm Reed Smith has hired Etelka Bogardi as a partner in its financial industry group in Asia, recruiting her from Norton Rose Fulbright where she served as Asia head of fintech and financial services regulatory.
Rajah & Tann disputes partner joins PRC firm Han Kun
The PRC’s Han Kun Law Offices has added dispute resolution expert Jerald Foo as a partner to its Singapore office. Foo joins from Big Four law firm Rajah & Tann.
Ashurst Hires Energy Transition Partner in Tokyo
Global law firm Ashurst is delighted to announce the appointment of James Hearne as a partner in its projects & energy transition practice, based in Tokyo.
In-House
US nuclear business The Nuclear Company hires former Tesla deputy GC as CLO
US nuclear energy innovation business The Nuclear Company has hired Robert Harmon as its chief legal officer, a newly created role. Harmon joins from construction tech business ICON, where he was general counsel.
US mortgage giant Freddie Mac hires MUFG Americas GC as next legal head – The Global Legal Post
US mortgage giant Freddie Mac has appointed Matthew Abrusci as general counsel, replacing Heidi Mason who retired at the start of this month. Abrusci joins from Japanese bank MUFG, where he was GC for the Americas region.
Paramount Hires Former DOJ Antitrust Head Makan Delrahim as Chief Legal Officer
Paramount has set Makan Delrahim, a former assistant attorney general of the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division during President Donald Trump’s first term, as its new chief legal officer.
Team Moves
Hogan Lovells adds two-partner trade team in Brussels from Steptoe
Hogan Lovells has boosted its Brussels bench with the hire of a three-lawyer EU trade team from US firm Steptoe. Partners Renato Antonini, who was head of Steptoe’s EU trade practice, and Eva Monard have joined the firm alongside Byron Maniatis, who has made partner on the move, having been of counsel at his previous firm.
DWF bolsters UK major injury and casualty group with 28-strong Kennedys team
DWF has hired a 27-strong team from Kennedys to boost its major injury and casualty group across London and Leeds. The group is led by partners Richard West, Claire Mulligan, Gareth Thomas and Jennifer Harris, alongside a director, 10 senior associates and a wider team of associates, solicitors and legal professionals.
Promotions & Appointments
Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP Names Thomas Hong as First Atlanta Office Managing Partner
Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP announced that Thomas Hong has been appointed the firm’s first Managing Partner of its Atlanta office.
Quarles Appoints Joanne Buser Next San Diego Office Managing Partner
Quarles & Brady LLP announced today that Joanne Buser has been named San Diego office managing partner, effective October 1. She succeeds Fred Plevin, who will continue with the firm as a Labor & Employment partner.
Dr Andrew Murray steps up as CBP’s new managing partner
Dr Andrew Murray will become Colin Biggers & Paisley’s new managing partner as of 1 October. He will succeed Nick Crennan, who steps down on 30 September.
Corporate partner Keavy Ryan to chair A&L Goodbody
A&L Goodbody LLP (ALG) has appointed Keavy Ryan as chair of the partnership.
Ms Ryan will succeed ALG’s current chair, Séamus Ó Cróinín, on 1 October.
Bird & Bird appoints two new country heads in the Middle East
Bird & Bird has today announced the appointment of two new country heads in the Middle East. Melissa Murray has been appointed as head of the UAE office, while Simon Shooter has been appointed as head of the Saudi Arabia office.
Office Openings & Closing
Orrick to shutter Geneva office by year end
Orrick is set to shutter its office in Switzerland by the end of the year, following a review. The tech-focused firm said the decision arose from a “routine review in connection with the conclusion of the office lease,” adding the closure “enables us to continue to emphasise strategic investment in other markets in Europe and worldwide.”
Reed Smith secures long-term lease for new Atlanta office at Spring Quarter
Reed Smith, a leading global law firm, today announced that it has signed a long-term lease for its new Atlanta office, marking an important step in the firm’s continued U.S. growth strategy. The office will be located on the 11th floor of Ten Twenty, the premier office tower within Spring Quarter, a new mixed-use development in the heart of Midtown Atlanta.
Mori Hamada set to become latest Japanese firm to launch in London
Japanese law firm Mori Hamada & Matsumoto announced plans to establish a London office in 2026, marking the latest expansion by a major Japanese legal practice into the UK capital as cross-border dealmaking activity intensifies.
Mergers & Alliances
Kennedys continues Americas growth streak with Brazilian alliance
Kennedys has formed an alliance with Brazil’s RPZ Advogados, in a move that brings the firm an insurance-focused team of five partners and 24 more lawyers.
Financials
US general counsel pays surges by a fifth since 2020, Equilar report shows
The 2025 General Counsel Pay Trends report showed that median GC compensation at Equilar 500 companies – the 500 largest companies headquartered in the US by revenue – rose to $3.4m in 2024, a 20.5% rise from $2.8m in 2020. Performance-related incentives were the largest component of GC pay, rising 11.9% to just over $1m during the same period.
Diversity & Inclusion
Blacks United in Legal Technology (BUiLT), a New York-based organization that aims to promote diversity and education in legal and legal tech, is looking to expand its reach, starting with a rebrand. The organization announced Thursday that it has changed its name to the Network for Excellence in Tech Law (NExT).
Technology & Innovation
Navigating Privilege Risks in the Age of AI: Practical Guidance for Legal Teams
As tools using generative artificial intelligence (AI) become more integrated into legal workflows, they introduce new and complex risks to attorney-client privilege, confidentiality, and discoverability. Data retention practices, unclear usage protocols and even routine interactions with AI tools can inadvertently expose confidential communications and compromise critical legal protections. This article outlines key risk areas and offers practical strategies for mitigating exposure, preserving privilege, and staying ahead of evolving legal standards.
Real-World Examples of How GCs Are Leveraging Generative AI
GCs leverage generative AI (gen AI) tools to assess disputes quickly and accurately, determine which matters to settle or defend, and which disputes can be adequately managed in-house. Collaboration with outside counsel is still important, but gen AI adds a catalytic dimension to dispute resolution workflow, allowing in-house teams to get to the heart of a matter faster than ever before.
Market Commentary
What Silicon Valley General Counsel Must Do to Keep Their Companies Competitive
For Silicon Valley to maintain its leadership, it needs Washington to evolve from reactive regulation to initiative-taking industrial co-architecture. The Valley needs defined strategic sectors in AI, semiconductors, robotics, and quantum computing with corresponding government co-investment. It needs capital market structures that reward strategic patience and enable appropriate IPO pathways for complex technologies. It needs immigration reform that treats talent mobility as a strategic imperative. It needs bold investments in secure, high-speed digital infrastructure and adaptive governance institutions capable of managing emerging technologies without stifling them.
Finding Your Way Back: A Three-Step Approach for Addressing Burnout as a Young Lawyer
For many young lawyers, the first years of practice bring both excitement and enormous pressure. Young lawyers are eager to prove themselves, to show they belong, and to exceed the expectations of partners, clients, and even themselves. As their skill sets grow, so do their responsibilities. Deadlines multiply, client demands increase, and the pressure to perform becomes relentless.
Moves
UK & Ireland
Eversheds Sutherland has further strengthened its tax offering with the appointment of Kevin Cummings as partner in its London office. Kevin joins the firm from McDermott Will & Emery.
Cadwalader enriches private wealth practice with new hire
Global law firm has welcomed partner Matthew Sperry to its London and New York private wealth practice. Prior to joining the firm, Sperry was an international attorney at Katten Muchin Rosenmann.
Baker Botts Adds Strategic Dubai-London Team to Expand Global Finance Offering
Baker Botts has strengthened its global finance platform with the arrival of Zahra Knapper Al-Bahrani and her team in London. The team joins from White & Case.
Hogan Lovells strengthens Private Equity platform with London duo
Global law firm Hogan Lovells has further expanded its Corporate & Finance offering with the addition of partners Michael James and Edward Meadowcroft in London from Paul Hastings.
Marie-Claire Scullion to head employment law team at Browne Jacobson
Browne Jacobson has appointed Marie-Claire Scullion as partner and head of employment in Ireland. She joins from Eversheds Sutherland.
Fieldfisher hires litigation and dispute resolution partner Dermot McEvoy
Fieldfisher has appointed Dermot McEvoy as a partner in its Dublin litigation and dispute resolution practice. Mr McEvoy joins the firm from Eversheds Sutherland.
Americas
Ropes & Gray hits Kirkland for M&A partner in New York growth push
Michael Brueck joins Ropes & Gray in New York after 15 years as a partner at Kirkland.
Veteran Energy Transactional Attorney John Thomas Joins Frost Brown Todd as Partner
Frost Brown Todd has announced that John Thomas has joined the firm’s Houston office as a Partner in the Private Equity & Venture Capital practice group. He joins from Grable Martin.
Latham & Watkins Strengthens New York Real Estate Team with Strategic Partner Addition
Latham & Watkins has announced the expansion of its New York real estate team with the addition of partner Michael S. Mercedes, who joins from Haynes and Boone.
White & Case Hires Back Former Partner in Mexico City
White & Case has hired back a former partner in Mexico City after he left the firm in 2009. Thomas S. Heather joins as counsel after holding a similar role at Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez—a top Mexican firm.
Proskauer adds Cadwalader finance partner quartet for Charlotte debut
Proskauer Rose has added a team of four leveraged finance partners from Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft to open its 12th global office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ron Lovelace, who headed Cadwalader’s leveraged finance practice, has joined the 800-lawyer firm alongside Patrick Yingling, Jared Zajac and Joey Polonsky.
Clifford Chance hires partner Shellka Arora-Cox
Clifford Chance has hired Shellka Arora-Cox as a partner in its energy & infrastructure finance team in the US as it further strengthens its renewables and project finance practice. She will be joining from Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw.
EMEA
Simmons & Simmons adds restructuring partner duo in Paris from Fidal
Simmons & Simmons has made a twin partner hire in Paris to expand its global restructuring practice. The incoming lawyers are Isabelle Vincent and Arnaud Roiron, who join from French firm Fidal.
Linklaters hires leading M&A deal maker Massimiliano Nitti as a partner in Italy
Linklaters has hired leading M&A dealmaker, Massimiliano Nitti, as a partner and Head of Corporate in Italy, further strengthening the firm’s global platform. He joins from Chionmeti.
Ashurst Hires Clifford Chance Partner Ouns Lemseffer to Launch Africa Presence
The leading global law firm Ashurst has hired Clifford Chance partner Ouns Lemseffer to spearhead the launch of its first office in Africa, located in Casablanca, Morocco. Ouns Lemseffer has joined as Head of Morocco and will serve as the Managing Partner of the firm’s new office, Ashurst’s 32nd globally. She joins from Clifford Chance.
Pinsent Masons hires Head of our Funds and Asset Management team in Luxembourg
Pinsent Masons has announced the hire of Manfred Dietrich to lead its funds and asset management team in Luxembourg. He joins from Maples Group.
Bird & Bird has announced the arrival of Charles-Henri Caron as a partner in the Litigation team and the Life Sciences & Healthcare group in Paris. He joins from Hogan Lovells.
APAC
Bird & Bird appoints Chris Case as partner in Australia
Bird & Bird has announced the appointment of Chris Case as partner in the firm’s Sydney office, strengthening its capabilities in the Defence and Energy & Utilities sectors. Chris will join the partnership on 1 October 2025. He previously worked for his own consultancy.
Nixon Peabody CWL bolsters corporate offering with two partner hires
Hong Kong. Nixon Peabody CWL has added further depth to its Hong Kong Corporate team with the arrival of partners Gary Lam and Nicholas Cook, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in cross-border transactions, regulatory matters, and growth sector work across Asia Pacific. They join from Oldham, Li & Ne.
Reed Smith hires regulatory partner in China from A&O Shearman
Reed Smith has appointed Jieni Ji as a partner in its global regulatory enforcement group, based across the firm’s Shanghai and Hong Kong offices. She joins from A&O Shearman, where she was of counsel.
Rajah & Tann boosts aviation finance practice with hire from Big Four rival A&G
Rajah & Tann Singapore has hired transport and aviation finance expert Michelle Zheng as a partner in its banking and finance practice in Singapore from rival Allen & Gledhill, marking a rare instance of partner-level movement among the city-state’s Big Four.
Kinstellar grows Cambodia offering with senior hire from Slovak firm
European law firm Kinstellar has hired corporate expert Roman Hamala as an international partner at its recently launched Cambodia operation from Slovakia’s HKV Law Firm.
In-House
US gym franchise Crunch Fitness hires first GC from Restore Hyper Wellness
US gym chain Crunch Fitness has hired Chris Flowers as its inaugural general counsel to support the company’s global growth plans. Flowers joins from Restore Hyper Wellness, where he was deputy GC.
Lucky Strike-maker BAT names GC replacement as 11-year veteran to step down
Lucky Strike-maker British American Tobacco (BAT) has lined up Paul McCrory as its next general counsel, replacing Jerome Abelman who is stepping down at the end of the year. McCrory is currently the company’s director for corporate and regulatory affairs.
New President has been appointed to lead Engine by Starling’s expansion in North America
Staling has announced that Jody Bhagat has been appointed to lead Engine by Starling‘s expansion in North America, from a new regional headquarters in New York. He joins from Personetics, where he served as President of Global Banking.
Team Moves
The team includes some of the country’s leading patent trial litigators including partners Steven Pepe––former Ropes & Gray intellectual property practice group chair––David Chun, Jim Davis, Kevin Post and Matthew Shapiro, along with 16 special counsel and associates.
William Fry recruits 12 from Eversheds Sutherland
William Fry has welcomed the arrival of 12 corporate/M&A lawyers from Eversheds Sutherland Ireland, including partners Gerard Ryan, Enda Newton, Gavin O’Flaherty and Maria O’Brien.
Promotions & Appointments
Freshfields Appoints M&A and Private Equity Partner to Oversee Continental Europe
Freshfields has appointed Konrad Gröller regional managing partner for continental Europe starting in early October.
Microsoft promotes GC to CLO role as legal chief steps down
Microsoft has promoted Jonathan Palmer to chief legal officer, replacing Hossein Nowbar who left the company this month. Palmer was previously the tech giant’s general counsel.
Willkie names private equity leader as new joint chair
Willkie Farr & Gallagher has named private equity co-head Jeffrey Poss as its new joint chairman, replacing veteran leader Thomas Cerabino who will step down from the role at the end of next year.
Office Openings & Closing
K&L Gates Set to Close Beijing Office
K&L Gates is closing its Beijing office and its staff members on the ground have been offered severance packages. The U.S.-based firm becomes the ninth international law firm to close an office in mainland China so far this year.
Bird & Bird to expand Iberian offering with launch of Lisbon office
Bird & Bird will open an office in Lisbon, establishing a presence in Portugal and strengthening its position in the wider Iberian market. The office will be led by Ana Rita Paínho, alongside Sofia Carreiro, one of-counsel, two senior counsel, a team of three associates and supporting staff. The initial team will cover IP, TMT, Life Sciences, Corporate, M&A, Employment and Litigation.
Ropes & Gray opens new office in Milan
Ropes & Gray has announced the opening of our new office in Milan. Led by Cataldo Piccarreta, Giorgia Lugli, and Luca Maranetto, our Milan team brings extensive experience in private equity, M&A, and complex transactions.
Mergers & Alliances
Belfast firms merge to form Elliotts Legal
Two long-standing Belfast law firms, Elliott Duffy Garrett and Johns Elliot, are to join forces as Elliotts Legal. From 1 October 2025, the two firms will operate from Elliott Duffy Garrett’s current offices at 40 Linenhall Street, Belfast, under the new name “Elliotts Legal”.
Financials
The 2025 Global 100 Ranked by Profit Per Equity Partner
The largest 100 law firms in the world enjoyed a strong rise in profits over the last financial year.
Profits at Freeths rise 13 per cent to £59.4m
Turnover rose by 14.8 per cent to £166.8 million, an increase of £21.5m compared to the previous year and overall profit climbed to £59.4m, an increase of 13 per cent from the previous year.
The 2025 Global 200: Rankings by Revenue
The largest 200 law firms in the world had another strong period during the last financial year, driven largely by the top U.S.-based institutions.
Diversity & Inclusion
Global firm Mishcon de Reya declares diversity commitment in annual report
Global firm Mishcon de Reya has reaffirmed its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion by outlining higher diversity targets in its 2025 annual report. By April 2027, the firm aims to have women comprise at least 35 percent of the senior equity partnership, up from the current percentage of 28 percent. It also looks to have 45 percent of the partnership be women (38 percent at present).
‘We can’t keep losing talent’ – African law firms urged to build sustainable careers for women
African law firms must create sustainable career paths for women lawyers if they are to retain their best female talent as work pressures continue to increase, delegates at the International Bar Association’s African Regional Forum Conference heard today.
Balancing Efficiency and Equity: Protecting Employers in New Jersey’s Diverse Workforce
This article explores how employers and carriers can proactively protect themselves, save time and limit expenses by anticipating these issues, all within the limits and protections of New Jersey workers’ compensation law. If employers and carriers fail to proactively protect themselves, today’s challenges may increase defence costs and expose employers to longer term cash liabilities.
The landscape of corporate law firms has long experienced a lack of diversity, particularly in terms of Black male attorneys. In Washington, D.C., a group of these attorneys is combatting isolation and stress by forming an informal network designed to support one another. This network provides a crucial social space that addresses the emotional toll faced by Black attorneys, who often encounter regular micro- and macro-aggressions, coupled with the expectation to outperform their non-Black peers to be seen as equals.
Technology & Innovation
Thomson Reuters rolls out Westlaw Singapore with SAL tie-up
Thomson Reuters has launched Westlaw Singapore to streamline legal research by centralising core local sources and applying AI-enabled search, a move the company says will help lawyers get to relevant law faster.
Chambers and Partners release new Market data tool
Chambers and Partners have introduced Market Pulse, a data product designed to help firms turn client demand into their next win. Powered by more than 200,000 client responses each year, Market Pulse provides evidence-led insights that enable teams to prepare for meetings, build thought leadership, and prioritise business development by geography and topic.
AI platform Harvey establishes first APAC base with new Sydney office
US-headquartered AI company Harvey has established its first APAC office in Sydney.
Market Commentary
As Competitors Eye Cadwalader for Talent, Law Firm ‘Not Engaged’ in Merger Talks
Following another group exit this week, Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft has lost more than 40 lawyers to competitors this year. Industry observers highlight a challenging talent market, with rivals increasingly recruiting from the firm. “While Cadwalader has received interest from various firms over the years, we are not currently in any merger talks,” stated a firm leader.
New wind farm to power Matheson offices
Matheson has struck a deal to supply its Irish offices with renewable electricity from a proposed wind farm development in Co Cavan. The corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA) signed by Matheson and Flogas, part of DCC plc, will provide the firm with a long-term 15-year supply of renewable electricity from Natural Forces’ Tullyhaw Wind Farm project.
Lawyers will play key role as Africa adapts to US tariff shock, IBA regional forum hears
African lawyers will have a key role to play in helping their business clients respond to the disruption caused by US President Donald Trump’s tariff regime, the International Bar Association’s African Regional Forum Conference heard today.
Moves
UK & Ireland
Reed Smith Snaps Up McDermott Arbitration Partner in London
Reed Smith has welcomed Michael Darowski, a seasoned arbitration partner from McDermott, who brings expertise in complex arbitration and holds qualifications in both London and Hong Kong.
Pinsents bolsters finance team with double partner hire
Pinsent Masons has hired Edward Smith from Travers Smith as a restructuring partner in London, and Seyavash Rahnema from Norton Rose Fulbright as a finance partner in Dubai. Smith brings over 25 years’ experience in restructuring, while Rahnema will help expand the firm’s finance practice across the Middle East.
Orrick’s growth spurt continues with Gibson Dunn duo
Orrick has hired oil and gas specialist Anna Howell (partner) and of Counsel Mitasha Chandok from Gibson Dunn to boost its London energy practice. Their expertise fills a gap in Orrick’s energy offerings, complementing its focus on renewables and infrastructure as part of broader global growth.
Reed Smith enhances corporate group with M&A and private equity partner in London
Reed Smith has appointed Andrew Houghton as a partner in its Global Corporate Group in London. With nearly 20 years of experience, Houghton specialises in cross-border corporate work, focusing on financial services and fintech sectors. He joins from Proskauer Rose, strengthening Reed Smith’s capabilities in private capital and complex transactions across the UK and Europe.
Lillian Mackenzie joins Burges Salmon
Lillian Mackenzie has joined Burges Salmon, marking the latest appointment at the firm, and strengthening its growing team.
Travers Partner Walks to Simmons in Busy Week for London Hiring
Simmons & Simmons has bolstered its derivatives and trading practice with the hire of Joseph Wren from Travers Smith. Wren, who spent 14 years at Travers and made partner in 2020, advises private market clients on a range of derivatives and trading matters.
Americas
Kirkland Lures Fintech Regulatory Partner from McDermott
Kara Kuchar, a financial technology regulation partner, was the most recent to leave McDermott Will & Schulte to join Kirkland.
Baker McKenzie Adds Second Ex-King & Spalding Partner to Boost NatSec Team in D.C.
Baker McKenzie has appointed Sumon Dantiki as co-chair of its national security practice in D.C., joining former Deputy U.S. Attorney Rod Rosenstein. Dantiki brings over a decade of government experience and was previously a partner at King & Spalding.
Wilson Sonsini’s Latin America Practice Head Jumps to Greenberg Traurig
Greenberg Traurig has hired Matt Squires, former head of Wilson Sonsini’s Latin America practice, as it expands its focus in the region, particularly in Brazil. Squires reunites with former colleagues from both Wilson Sonsini and Milbank, where he spent nearly six years in the New York office.
Clifford Chance Adds Fried Frank PE Partner Amid Lateral Spree
According to global head of private equity Jonny Myers, Andrea Gede-Lange joined the company on Thursday, making her the 13th lateral partner to join in the last 12 months.
EMEA
Clyde & Co. Recruits Pinsents Dubai Partner as Head of Technology to Spur Practice Rebuild
Ruby Khnom has joined Clyde & Co. as head of technology in Dubai, recruited from Pinsent Masons to help rebuild the firm’s TMT practice amid the region’s rapidly evolving tech and regulatory landscape.
Ashurst set to hire Clifford Chance team for Casablanca launch
Ashurst has hired Clifford Chance partner Ouns Lemseffer to lead its new Morocco office, marking the firm’s entry into Africa. The team will focus on energy, infrastructure, and banking across Francophone Africa.
APAC
JWS appoints new real estate partner for its Sydney team
Johnson Winter Slattery (JWS) has appointed Bhavini Sundarjee as a new partner in its Sydney real estate team. This addition strengthens JWS’s presence in the Sydney property market.
Lander & Rogers appoints new commercial disputes partner
Helen Sims, a partner with experience at top firms and government offices, joined Lander & Rogers’ national disputes practice in September 2025 to strengthen their expertise in complex commercial litigation, regulatory investigations, and public law.
PE Talent Wars: Clayton Utz Hires Partner from Allens Amid Private Capital Boom
With private capital investment booming in Australia, Clayton Utz has appointed former Allens partner Mark Malinas as head of private equity, joining other major firms like Ashurst, Corrs, and Clifford Chance in strengthening their PE teams.
Kirkland Hong Kong Partner Relocates to Singapore for Milbank
Maurice Conway, a partner specialising in private equity and mergers and acquisitions at Kirkland & Ellis, has departed the firm’s Hong Kong office to join Milbank in Singapore.
His move is part of Milbank’s broader global initiative aimed at strengthening its private equity capabilities across key markets
In-House
NYU Hires Its Former Law School Dean for Newly Created Chief Legal Officer Role
Trevor Morrison, who served as the NYU School of Law’s dean from 2013 to 2022, has been named New York University’s first chief legal officer.
US Olympic Committee Plucks Legal Chief from Southeastern Conference
Over the last ten years, during which time the SEC’s revenue has almost doubled, William King has been the agency’s associate commissioner for legal affairs and compliance.
Inmaculada Castelló joins Deloitte Legal as Corporate partner
Inmaculada Castelló has joined Deloitte Legal as a Corporate/M&A partner, bringing 20 years of experience from Dentons, Pinsent Masons, and other firms. Her expertise in M&A and alternative investments strengthens Deloitte’s Spanish legal team amid ongoing global restructuring.
Longtime Gibson Dunn Partner Tapped for SEC Corporation Finance Role
Longtime Gibson Dunn partner James Moloney has joined the SEC as head of the Division of Corporation Finance, following 25 years at the firm and co-leading its securities regulation and corporate governance group. His appointment supports the SEC’s push to modernize rules and ease disclosure burdens.
Team Moves
Three-Lawyer M&A, Private Equity Team Lands at Morgan Lewis in Boston
Morgan Lewis has added a mergers and acquisitions and private equity team consisting of partners Shannon Zollo, Joshua French, and Meghan Kelly. The trio, who have worked together for over seven years, expressed enthusiasm about the move and the support they’ve received from the firm.
With Market ‘Competitive’ as Ever, Mayer Brown Adds 6-Lawyer Infrastructure Team
Mayer Brown has brought on a six-lawyer projects and infrastructure team led by Elina Coss (from Wilson Sonsini) and Trevor Shelton (from Vinson & Elkins). Coss will work from London and New York, while Shelton joins in Los Angeles. The hires strengthen the firm’s global project finance and renewable energy capabilities. The team, which includes one counsel and three associates, is spread across five offices. Mayer Brown’s Joe Seliga said the additions meet rising investor demand in the infrastructure space. Both Coss and Shelton expressed enthusiasm for the firm’s global platform and finance strengths.
Orrick hits Cadwalader for eight-partner finance team in London and US
Orrick has boosted its finance practice by hiring eight partners from Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft across the UK and US amid rising demand for CLO and private credit expertise. The London team includes David Quirolo, Claire Puddicombe, Daniel Tobias, and Alexander Collins, while the US group features Gregg Jubin, Joe Beach, Nate Spanheimer, and Skyler Walker. This move follows recent market shifts, such as Sushila Nayak and James Jirtle leaving Orrick for Dechert, and Cadwalader hiring Edward Holmes from Paul Hastings.
Ropes & Gray Opens Milan Office, Hires Latham PE Trio
Ropes & Gray has opened a new office in Milan, Italy, expanding its global private equity practice. The firm welcomed three private equity partners from Latham & Watkins, Cataldo Piccarreta, Giorgia Lugli, and Luca Maranetto, with two based in Milan and one in London. This Milan launch follows the firm’s Paris office opening six months earlier.
Promotions & Appointments
Cleary Elects New Managing Partner, While Gerstenzang Will Hold New Senior Partner Role
After leading Cleary since 2017, Michael Gerstenzang will be replaced by longtime partner Jeffrery Karpf.
Rapidly Growing Saxton & Stump Announces Next CEO
Saxton & Stump has announced its next CEO will be Thomas J. Kent Jr, who will assume the role at the beginning of 2026. Current CEO and founder James Saxton will transition to a chairman position at the start of next year. The leadership change comes amid an aggressive growth strategy in 2025, which has included a merger with a firm in York, Pennsylvania, and the launch of a new office in Pittsburgh.
GOLDLAW announces Kuvin as Shareholder
Spencer Kuvin, GOLDLAW’s Chief Legal Officer and Litigation Attorney, has joined the company as a stakeholder. Since 2012, Mr. Kuvin has held a Florida Bar Board Certification in Civil Trial.
Sparke Helmore names 5 new partners across key practice areas
Sparke Helmore appointed five new partners across key practice areas, effective 1 July 2025, including Alanna Lucchese, Adam Cunynghame, Max Calligeros, Alex Caldwell, and Matthew O’Sullivan. These promotions span five offices nationwide, reflecting the firm’s commitment to strengthening its regional presence and expertise.
Kennedys promotes two lawyers in Edinburgh
Kennedys has promoted Amy Dignan to legal director and Jenna Green to senior associate in Edinburgh as part of a global promotions round. The firm elevated 76 lawyers worldwide and continues to invest in talent following its record £428 million revenue in 2024/25.
Office Openings & Closing
Risking Buyer’s Remorse, Midsize Firms Are Launching Offices in a Hot Market
At least six midsize legal practices have opened additional offices since April, either by merging with a nearby firm or via lateral hiring. Of those launches, half represented growth beyond the area origins of the firms, while others maintained their regional foundations.
New York-Based Hospitality Firm Launches in Miami, Responding to Growing Culinary Scene
Miami-Dade County saw record-breaking tourism growth in 2024, attracting over 28 million visitors the highest number ever recorded in a single year. Capitalizing on the region’s momentum, a New York-based law firm has opened a new office in Miami and is also considering further expansion into Orlando, Tampa, and other Florida markets.
Carmody Celebrates Expansion into New London
Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey has announced its combination with the the law offices of Waller Smith & Palmer
Global law firm confirms move to Aire Park
Eversheds Sutherland will move its 600+ team to Aire Park’s new Kellstone building in Leeds in early 2027, becoming its first tenant and joining the city’s major South Bank regeneration.
Mergers & Alliances
Fisher Phillips Joins with Boutique Elarbee Thompson, Boosting Atlanta Presence
Fisher & Phillips has officially combined with Atlanta-based labor and employment boutique Elarbee Thompson Sapp & Wilson, effective September 1. According to firm officials, the merger follows approximately a year of serious discussions between the two firms. The combination creates a 61-lawyer office in Atlanta, making it one of the largest among Fisher Phillips’ 41 U.S. locations and its largest office outside of California.
Morris Manning Loses 3 Partners in Atlanta in Advance of Merger With Taft
Partners have relocated to Maynard Nexsen, Burr & Forman, and Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton throughout the last week. On December 31, the company will merge with Taft.
McCarter & English Snaps Up NYC Securities Boutique
McCarter & English LLP has acquired Ross Law Group, a New York firm focused on securities and corporate law, adding three lawyers and boosting its cross-border and venture capital expertise.
Eversheds relaunches in Ireland after abandoning William Fry merger
Eversheds Sutherland is fully integrating its Irish practice into its international LLP from 15 September, uniting its Dublin and Belfast offices under one structure. The combined team includes 26 partners and around 170 staff, with Pamela O’Neil as managing partner in Dublin and Gareth Planck leading Belfast. Focus areas include financial services, technology, life sciences, energy, and industry. This move follows the end of merger talks with William Fry earlier this year and aims to enhance the firm’s local and global reach.
Google-backed AI platform buys law firm in UK legal industry first
Lawhive, an AI-powered lawtech firm backed by Google Ventures, has acquired UK conveyancing specialist Woodstock Legal Services, marking its entry into the regulated legal sector. The deal aims to combine traditional legal expertise with Lawhive’s AI assistant “Lawrence,” which handles tasks like research and drafting. Woodstock, founded in 2014, focuses on property law and operates a consultancy model. Lawhive, which raised nearly £40 million last year, says the move will streamline services and let lawyers focus more on clients.
Financials
Mishcon de Reya breaks £100m profit barrier
Mishcon de Reya posted 9% revenue growth to £330 million and profits rose 14% to £110 million, surpassing £100 million for the first time. The firm added 16 partners and completed a decade-long strategy that tripled its size, including a 2023 merger with Taylor Vinters. Key wins included a £237 million fraud case payout and advising AI firm Wayve on a $1.05 billion funding round. Their AI tool deReyAI has been used over 355,000 times, with a new AI platform launched recently. Managing partner James Libson highlighted strong growth and future opportunities.
DWF Posts Latest Financials; Net Revenues Up 8%
DWF reported an 8% revenue increase to £466 million for the year ending April 2025. Key moves included acquiring Australian firm Proclaim, expanding insurance teams in London and Canada, and promoting 26 partners. The firm was named leader in Responsible Business and appointed Steve Varley as Independent Non-Executive Chair. With a strong client satisfaction score, CEO Matthew Doughty expressed confidence in growth through technology, global expansion, and sustainability efforts.
Mersey legal group revenues hit £33.7m amid UK expansion
Liverpool-based legal group MAPD Ventures has reported a 48% increase in revenue to £33.7 million for the year ending May 2024 but also widened its pre-tax losses to £2.6 million, largely due to one-off refinancing costs. Founded in 2019 by Brian Cullen and Joanna Kingston-Davies, MAPD now operates 11 brands across 15 offices with over 550 staff. The group is pursuing UK expansion and may take on more debt or private equity to support growth. Subsidiaries Jackson Lees and Bermans showed mixed results, with revenues steady but profits falling. MAPD also acquired Avidity IP, a specialist patent attorney firm.
Diversity & Inclusion
Influential Woman of the Year Finalists: Emily Westridge Black, A&O Shearman
Texas Lawyer will honor attorneys and legal professionals at an awards ceremony Sept. 25.
Wilson Sonsini Honored Among Top Law Firms in Law360 Pulse’s Diversity Snapshot
On September 9, 2025, Law360 Pulse published its yearly Diversity Snapshot, highlighting Wilson Sonsini’s strong performance. The firm was placed second among law firms with more than 600 attorneys for overall diversity and topped the list for representation of attorneys of colour within its equity partnership. The report reviewed 248 firms, covering over 100,000 lawyers across the U.S., including more than 45,000 partners. It measures how firms recruit, advance, and retain diverse talent, providing both a comprehensive score and detailed demographic insights.
Technology & Innovation
Wait a Minute: AI Early Adopters Face New Hurdle
At least one early adopter is now advising attorneys to slow down to prevent falling behind the swift advancement of artificial intelligence technology, as more litigators aggressively incorporate AI into their firms.
AI’s Impact on Legal Sector: A Revolutionary Change or an Evolutionary Shift?
In a recent panel discussion, Microsoft’s Chief Legal Officer Jon Palmer shared his views on how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the legal profession. He compared AI’s rise to the invention of the printing press, arguing that predicting its full impact is unrealistic due to its transformative potential. Palmer acknowledged concerns about job loss but stressed that AI is more likely to handle repetitive tasks while creating new opportunities. Past changes like e-discovery show how technology can shift legal work rather than eliminate it. Reports from McKinsey support this, suggesting AI will enhance productivity by working alongside legal professionals.
Quantum Computing Benefits and Legal Risk Considerations
When combined with generative AI, quantum computing the next technological revolution will have enormous advantages for both business and society. Additionally, it will introduce new security threats and legislative ambiguities that can be pre-empted, for example, by putting post-quantum encryption into place.
Simulated Engagement: Using AI-Generated Audiences to Strengthen Legal Notice Strategy
It has been stated that “As the bar for meaningful notice continues to rise, synthetic audience testing may soon be less a competitive advantage and more a professional expectation.”
Market Commentary
Ethical Tips for Managing a Fully Remote Law Practice
Although there are advantages to working electronically, attorneys should think about the moral dilemmas associated with running a virtual firm. When practicing completely online, attorneys are still required by the ABA to uphold their ethical obligations.
Why Boies Schiller’s New Chair Maintains a Busy Trial Practice
Matt Schwartz, who became chair at the beginning of the year, said, “We are a bunch of trial nerds.” “We discuss a problem involving the rules of evidence that has come up and some hearing that we’re doing while sitting around the lunchroom.”
London continues to lead in international arbitration, Law Society reveals
English law and London courts continue to lead global commercial dispute resolution, with English law covering 40% of international transactions. UK legal services exports reached £9 billion in 2024, showing strong worldwide demand. The London Commercial Court attracts international cases from 93 countries and completes over half its trials in under four days. The Law Society urges more government investment to maintain the UK’s legal dominance.
Cultural chameleons and authenticity
Law firms, especially in the US, often promote their culture, but insiders say too much focus can hide problems. The pandemic and social movements made firms highlight community values, but this sometimes conflicts with layoffs and tough decisions. US firms have reduced diversity and ESG efforts due to political changes, hurting their credibility. UK firms tend to avoid politicising culture and focus on fairness. Experts say firms must back up cultural claims with real action or risk damage. If firms cannot fully support their values, they should avoid promoting them.
Top 10 Biglaw Firm To Remain A Single-Tier Partnership — For Now
While many top Biglaw firms have adopted nonequity partnership tiers in recent years, Ropes & Gray has decided to maintain its traditional single-tier equity partnership. Despite industry trends and speculation, partner Dan Stanco described creating a nonequity tier as “premature.” Ropes remains one of the few Am Law 100 firms sticking to an all-equity model amid growing moves toward two-tier partnerships.
Moves
UK & Ireland
Former Weil London head and top Kirkland restructuring partner join Sullivan & Cromwell
Sullivan & Cromwell said on the 1st September that it has appointed former Weil London head Mike Francies and Kirkland restructuring partner Kon Asimacopoulos as partners in its City office.
Ropes & Gray London Hits Latham for Private Equity Partner Hire
By bringing on private equity partner Cataldo Piccarreta from Latham & Watkins, Ropes & Gray has bolstered its London branch. After eight and a half years at Latham, mostly in the Milan office, Piccareta, who has led on acquisitions for investors including EQT and Bain Capital, is scheduled to join.
Five-partner boost for Eversheds in London with hires from Latham, A&O and White & Case
Eversheds Sutherland has strengthened its London team with five partner hires across structured finance, M&A, data and technology, and construction. Martin Corrigan joins from Latham & Watkins, bringing expertise in securitisation; Kashif Siddiqui arrives from Pepco Group with broad M&A experience; Karishma Brahmbhatt enhances the data and tech practice with a focus on privacy and AI; while James Holden and John Lurie, both from White & Case and Bechtel respectively, bolster the construction team with skills in arbitration and infrastructure projects. These moves come amid a wave of senior partner hires across major UK firms.
Stephenson Harwood Taps King & Spalding for London Private Equity Partner
Paul Barron is set to join Stephenson Harwood, having spent the past three years at King & Spalding, where he began in 2022
Stewarts hires Stephenson Harwood’s international arbitration head in London
Rovine Chandrasekera from Stephenson Harwood has joined Stewarts, a boutique law practice that focuses on disputes, as a partner in London.
Freeths continues to bolster Employment offering with strategic lateral hire in London
With the addition of Partner Melanie Stancliffe, renowned legal company Freeths has further enhanced its industry-leading employment offering. Having worked in the city for 25 years, Melanie frequently provides advice on a variety of employment-related issues to organisations, companies, and senior executives, including bankers, traders, and brokers.
CMS is happy to announce Sunil Mawkin’s appointment as a partner in its London-based Infrastructure, Construction and Energy (ICE) Disputes unit. Sunil leaves A&O Shearman to join. With an emphasis on international arbitration, Sunil has more than ten years of expertise providing advice on high-value, intricate construction and energy disputes in international markets.
Browne Jacobson have hired Marie Claire Scullion as Head of Employment in Dublin
Marie Claire Scullion has amassed over 20 years’ worth of experience advising on the day-to-day range of employment issues, such as performance management issues, termination of employment, equality and discrimination claims, senior executive exits, enforcement of restrictive covenants, non-compete and confidentiality clauses. She has moved from Eversheds Sutherland.
Shoosmiths taps former DLA Piper leader as advisor
Simon Levine, the former international managing partner of DLA Piper, has been named a strategic adviser to the board of Shoosmiths.
Americas
Sullivan & Cromwell Sees Exits in New York Amid Partnership Shuffle
Co-head of Sullivan & Cromwell’s private equity division, Brian Hamilton, is negotiating a move to Willkie. Lee Parnes, a corporate partner in the M&A division of Sullivan & Cromwell, is currently employed at Davis Polk.
Another Latham IP Litigator Jumps to Weil Amid Firm’s Boomerang Bonanza
Weil has brought back Joseph Lee, an IP litigator from Latham in Los Angeles, and Nate Christensen, a Dallas-based private equity attorney from Norton Rose—making them the 14th and 15th lawyers to rejoin the firm since the start of 2023.
Eckert Seamans Adds Immigration Experts in Phila.
In response to growing client demand brought on by increased immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott has hired two business immigration members, Minh Suh and Shaun Staller, to its Philadelphia office.
Pillsbury Grows Miami Office with 2 Real Estate Partner Hires from Weil
The business “found the right people at the right time” in employing lawyers Nellie Camerik and Pejman Razavilar, according to former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Markenzy Lapointe.
Leading Appellate Lawyer Yaira Dubin Joins Sullivan & Cromwell from Solicitor General’s Office
Yaira Dubin has joined Sullivan & Cromwell LLP as a partner in the company’s New York office, the firm announced today. Ms. Dubin comes to S&C from the Office of the Solicitor General at the U.S. Department of Justice.
Morgan Lewis Hires Trade Sanctions Partner as Demand for Work Increases Alongside Tariff Tensions
Mike Huneke joins the Washington office of the firm. At Hughes Hubbard & Reed, he most recently served as co-chair of the export controls, sanctions, and anti-money laundering practice.
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins Joins Kelley Kronenberg
Instead of going the “traditional route of Big Law,” the civil litigator decided that working for a midsize firm would better meet the interests and demands of her clients.
Kirkland Lands Latham Leader of Entertainment, Sports and Media Group
According to sources, Kirkland hired Frank Saviano to co-lead their sports practice.
In Continued Dallas Growth, Polsinelli Adds an M&A Shareholder from Atwood & McCall
Matt Smith, a recent stakeholder, claimed that his clients benefit from the Am Law 100 firm’s wide range of practice offerings and regional reach.
Dentons Former Global Finance Director Returns to Firm as New US CFO
Gina Santoro left the Atlanta-based company in 2021 to join Morris Manning & Martin, which was about to merge with Taft Stettinius & Hollister. According to Dentons, Santoro’s comeback coincides with the multinational company’s notable financial performance and expansion.
Ex-assistant to solicitor general returns to Paul Weiss in Washington DC
Masha Hansford, an appellate litigator, has returned to the firm after a wave of litigation defections following the Trump deal.
EMEA
Bird & Bird hires corporate crime, compliance and ESG expert David Schreuders as new partner
With the addition of David Schreuders as a partner in the Netherlands, Bird & Bird enhances its offerings in white-collar crime and international investigations. David and colleague Ruben Dijkhuis join.
Hogan Lovells further expands its Amsterdam M&A practice with the hire of Jaap Geleijns as partner
Geleijns is now an additional M&A partner in the company’s Corporate & Finance practice at its Amsterdam office. Jaap has over 13 years of experience from Linklaters, where he provided advice on numerous high-profile domestic and international M&A deals, including both public and private M&A.
Willkie Adds Competition Partner Elvira Aliende Rodríguez in Brussels
Elvira Aliende Rodríguez has joined the firm’s Brussels office as a partner in the Antitrust & Competition practice. EU competition law is the focus of her practice.
Lateral in Amsterdam Marks 6th Departure for Simmons, 6th Partner Hire for Eversheds Sutherland
Luc Cohen, a partner in the local real estate practice at Simmons & Simmons, has left the company to work at Eversheds Sutherland. After losing five partners to Taylor Wessing, Eversheds Sutherland has already hired six lateral partners in the past month.
HSF Kramer Brings in Dechert Paris Antitrust Partner
Laurence Bary appeared in Law.com International’s 2021 inaugural list of the best women in law for continental Europe.
EY welcome Benoit Rose in Luxembourg as a Partner.
EY law have added Benoit Rose from Pinsent Masons. Benoît brings over 20 years of experience in asset management across Luxembourg, France and Switzerland, including 15 years in senior management roles.
Squire Patton Boggs Appoints Leading Private Equity Lawyer in Germany
Leading German corporate and private equity attorney Robert Bastian has joined Squire Patton Boggs’ global Corporate Practice Group in Frankfurt as a partner. Prior to this, Mr. Bastian oversaw Dentons’ private equity division in Germany.
APAC
Covington IP Litigator Jumps to Wilmer
WilmerHale has hired IP partner Alice Ahn from Covington & Burling; based in San Francisco, she brings strong ties to Korea and aims to strengthen the firm’s Korean client base.
Charles Russell Speechlys Adds Partner Duo in Hong Kong
Francis Li and Wendy Fong from Squire Patton Boggs have joined Charles Russell Speechlys, a UK legal firm, as partners to grow its corporate practice in Hong Kong.
Hogan Lovells Takes Corporate Partner Duo from Paul Hastings China
Meka Meng and David Wang, both seasoned partners, will join Hogan Lovells in Beijing and Shanghai, respectively. With their exits, Paul Hastings will have five litigation partners left in its two offices in mainland China.
Hong Kong Boutique Hauzen Takes Fintech Partner from K&L Gates
Jay Lee, a Fintech and debt capital markets specialist who was a partner at K&L Gates in 2022, has joined Hong Kong boutique Hauzen.
Cooley Hires Venture Capital Partner from Gunderson Dettmer Singapore
David He was brought over from competitor firm Gunderson Dettmer to join U.S. legal firm Cooley as a partner in its venture capital and emerging firms practice in Singapore.
In-House
Eversheds Sutherland builds on strategic M&A capability with partner hire
Kashif Siqqiui, who was Head of Legal at Poundland before joining the international law firm’s London office, offers a wealth of experience and expertise in providing advice on intricate cross-border transactions.
Europe’s Advant Beiten Opens in London with In-House Hire
The verein firm has continued its expansion beyond Continental Europe with the hire of Sebastien Diehl from Standard Chartered.
US asset manager Vanguard taps Principal Financial Group for next legal chief
Tonya Robinson, who is retiring after less than a year, has been replaced as chief legal officer by Natalie Lamarque, who was hired by US investment behemoth Vanguard. Lamarque formerly served as general attorney at Principal Financial Group before joining.
Team Moves
Pierson Ferdinand Announces Five Partner Appointments Across Key Practices
One of the fastest-growing law firms in the world, Pierson Ferdinand LLP, announced in June that it has appointed five (5) Partners to its Corporate, Litigation, Real Estate, Securities, Data Privacy, and Healthcare areas. These hires show PierFerd’s ongoing success in luring seasoned legal professionals attracted to the Firm’s entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative, client-focused culture.
36 Chapman Glucksman Attorneys Move to Segal McCambridge in LA
All attorneys from Chapman Glucksman have joined Segal McCambridge as part of a combination, including founding partners Arthur Chapman and Richard Glucksman, who join as partner and counsel, respectively; the three California offices formerly operated by Chapman Glucksman will be closed following the transition.
Greenberg Traurig adds ‘major strength’ in Dubai with four-lawyer Norton Rose team hire
The group, which focuses on project finance and construction, is led by partners and recently hired practice heads Nicholas Kramer and Angela Croker.
Promotions & Appointments
People in the News—Sept. 2, 2025—McNees, Cohen Seglias
Five of McNees Wallace & Nurick’s attorneys—Ryan Gonder, Ashley Nichols Weber, Alison T. Smith, Errin T. McCaulley Jr., and Benjamin Ward—were elected to membership with effect from January 1, 2026.
People in the News—Sept. 4, 2025—Caesar Rivise, McAndrews Mehalick
Allison R. Tramontana has been promoted to partner with Caesar Rivise, the business announced on September 1st.
One Year After Merger Vote, Troutman Pepper Locke Announces New COO
“The combined firm is already looking at a financially successful 2025 in the eight months since the merger went into effect,” said Tom Cole, the chair of the firm. Troutman Pepper Locke is appointing its first-ever COO, Rob Adam, who will be joining from Dentons, effective at the end of September
Texas A&M University System Promotes 20-Year Employee to General Counsel
Seven years after receiving his law degree, in 2005, Brooks Moore began working in the system’s legal department and has since risen to the top.
O’Kelley And Sorohan Congratulates David Strauss On Being Elevated To Partner
The company is pleased to announce the addition of David Strauss as a partner.
Squire Patton Boggs’ Sydney Office Managing Partner Stands Down
Tony Chong, a managing partner in Perth, will take over for Graeme Slattery, who resigned from his position at Squire Patton Boggs’ Sydney office.
Dentons appoints UK banking partner as global chair to help lead ‘next phase’ of development
Susan Kelly, a highly regarded UK banking partner, has been named Dentons’ next chair, assisting in steering what she refers to as “the next phase” of the multinational behemoth’s growth after a time of explosive expansion.
Gibson Dunn names international arbitration co-chair as head of new Zurich office
Christopher Harris KC has been appointed as the partner in charge of Gibson Dunn & Crutcher’s new Zurich office. Harris, a senior silk in the London barristers’ chambers at 3 Verulam Buildings, co-chaired the international arbitration practice group before joining the firm as a partner in July.
Office Openings & Closing
First Ever Singapore Set Lands In London With Trio of Veteran Arbitrators
Veteran arbitrators Toby Landau KC, Jern-Fei Ng KC, and Matthew Gearing KC will become the first full members of the organization, which is named Duxton Hill Chambers London.
US Law Firms Acquiring More London Office Space as UK Firms Downsize
While U.K.-founded legal businesses have demonstrated a significantly lower square footage, U.S. law firms have increased their square footage in London over the last five years.
Gibson Dunn Launches Zurich Office, Expanding Its Foothold in Europe
Clients will receive advice on intricate multijurisdictional legal issues and international arbitration from the firm’s first office in Switzerland.
Global IP Group Rouse Expands to Australia and New Zealand
By partnering with the independent IP company Wrays Group, the global intellectual property corporation Rouse Group is growing into Australia and New Zealand.
Ex-Withers group launches London office for German tech law firm
A team from Withers has been appointed by the rapidly expanding German tech legal company YPOG to open its first overseas office in King’s Cross, London.
Six Key Ecija Partners Depart to Launch Veria, a Tech-Focused Legal Boutique
Pablo Márquez, former managing partner of Ecija in Colombia, and five other partners –Lorena Garnica, Patricia Renjifo, Carlos Hugo Ramírez, Camilo Ramírez, and Julio Castañeda – have left the Spanish law firm to focus on Veria, a boutique advisory firm specialising in technology and artificial intelligence. Ecija confirmed the move, describing it as part of a restructuring in Colombia, with new professionals set to join soon.
The six lawyers, who led Ecija’s entry into South America in 2021, now join Veria as partners. The firm emphasises client-focused, practical legal solutions backed by experience in the public sector, private industry, and academia.
5 Taylor Wessing Munich Partners Form Break Away IP Boutique
To start their own business, five patent partners are departing from Taylor Wessing’s formidable Munich patent litigation team. This follows Taylor Wessing’s previous successful European expansion strategy, which included lateral appointments in Paris and Amsterdam.
Akin opens in Chicago with four partners recruited from Mayer Brown
Akin Gump has launched its 18th global office in Chicago by bringing in a four-partner team from Mayer Brown, specialising in real estate funds and infrastructure M&A, led by Wendy Gallegos, former co-leader of Mayer Brown’s private funds practice.
Mergers & Alliances
Clyde & Co Launches Rotterdam Office via Local Merger
As part of its planned expansion in Europe, international legal firm Clyde & Co. announced the launch of a new office in Rotterdam, Netherlands, through a merger with Stadermann Luiten Advocaten (SLA).
Former DLA Piper Affiliate Merges with Fellow Brazilian Firm
A 137-lawyer firm is created by the merger of Campos Mello and Schmidt Valois, which was previously connected to Womble Bond Dickinson.
100 Days Since Merger, HSF Kramer Sets Out Ambitious US Growth Plans
In the upcoming years, the recently merged company hopes that 30% of its sales will originate from the United States.
Financials
Burges Salmon Reports 25% Profit Increase
Burges Salmon reported a 9.2% rise in turnover to £178m and a 25% profit increase to £63m for the year ending April 2025. Since launching in Edinburgh in 2019, the firm has expanded rapidly, with headcount growing 40% to over 1,200. Strong performance across key sectors and major client wins have driven nearly 50% revenue growth over four years. A 5% firm-wide bonus was awarded, reflecting its continued focus on people, inclusion, and strategic growth.
Norton Rose Fulbright has recorded its sixth consecutive year of growth across its EMEA operations, reporting a turnover of £610.3m for the 2024 financial year – a 52% increase from 2023, largely due to a change in reporting periods.
Technology & Innovation
Trust, Transformation & The Human Layer of AI
In the legal industry, artificial intelligence is changing how people communicate with one another and how internal stakeholders and clients see trust. In order to maximize the advantages of new technologies for our legal teams, how can we manage the revolutionary change that will occur over the next five to ten years?
The Ethical & Practical Use of AI in Patent Prosecution
A new generation of patent practitioners is rapidly adopting artificial intelligence as their “Google search bar,” yet there are significant ethical considerations when employing it in the practice of law. Lawyers must understand USPTO and CFR regulations as AI tools become more prevalent in routine patent prosecution to make sure their usage is both efficient and legal.
Is the Rise of AI a Real Threat to Associate Jobs?
One in five pre-law students fear artificial intelligence could replace their jobs in the future. Is there no need to be afraid?
AI Considerations in Investigations
AI allows investigators to concentrate on what really matters. They can devote more time to using professional judgment, evaluating the evidence, and applying the law.
Enterprises Risk Financial Fallout Without Robust and Universally Adept AI Governance Frameworks
In the face of a patchwork of international legislation, many organizations are faced with the difficult task of embracing AI’s transformative potential while minimizing their legal risk.
Market Commentary
The Holiday Gifting Dilemma: How Law Firms Can Get Gratitude Right
Giving gifts over the holidays is more than just a way to express gratitude and cheer. Finding something appropriate and meaningful while avoiding possibly expensive blunders is frequently a struggle.
7 Months after Arriving from UNC, Burr & Forman’s COO is Looking to Modernize Firm Governance
Burr & Forman, an Am Law Second Hundred firm, has turned to a chief operating officer recently hired from academia to steer its expansion as more and more firms, like Kirkland & Ellis, look beyond the legal sector to fill seats in their C-suites.
The Downturn of Hong Kong’s Legal Market Has Taken A Toll On Lawyers’ Mental Health
According to experts, many lawyers in Hong Kong and other Asian locations are under considerably more stress and pressure than usual.
‘You Don’t Have a Way of Challenging it’: What GCs Say About Inflated Hours
The issue has returned to the forefront due to the recent disbarment of an associate for excessively billing hours.
In a Big Lateral Year for Nelson Mullins, Houston Was a Hub for Activity
Over the past 12 months, more partners joined the Houston office, which has been in operation for a year, than any other of the firm’s outposts. In general, there were more leaving partners than entering couples.
This Law Firm Chair Has a Formula to Ensure Collaboration and Growth
According to Allan Ritchie, chair of a mid-sized Canadian legal firm, Loopstra Nixon has boosted its income and workforce by implementing a partner incentive plan that incentivizes attorneys to collaborate.
Is Sullivan & Cromwell Following the Paul Weiss London Playbook?
Sullivan & Cromwell’s recent high-profile hires in London suggest a potential shift toward a more aggressive growth strategy, echoing the bold expansion undertaken by Paul Weiss in recent years.
Amid Record-Breaking Rate Increases, Are Midsize Firms Leaving Money on the Table?
Midsize companies are under pressure to avoid pricing out clients while Big Law keeps raising billing rates. Rather than concentrating only on cutting expenses, these firms are using their specialized knowledge to draw in and keep clients while defending their prices.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Sullivan & Worcester hires trade finance specialist from HFW in London
US law firm Sullivan & Worcester has hired HFW trade finance partner Matthew Cox to strengthen the firm’s London office.
Browne Jacobson hires new Partner in London
Chris Holder has joined Browne Jacobson from Bristows. He will serve as Partner in the Commercial and Technology Team, and will be based in London.
Charles Russell Speechleys hires new Partner
Jue Jun Lu joins Charles Russell Speechleys as a Partner after serving as Legal Director at DLA Piper.
Charles Metherell joins Knights’ Bristol team
Charles Metherell has joined Knights’ Regulatory team from JMW Solicitors.
Fieldfisher strengthens Corporate practice with hire
Fieldfisher announced the strategic appointment of Karen O’Grady as a partner in its Corporate practice, effective 1 September 2025. Joining from Sheridans, Karen brings with her over 15 years of experience in mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, and private equity transactions.
Andrew Jackson Solicitors recruits new partner to family law team
Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors has bolstered its family law practice with the appointment of Gabbie Glasper.
TV Edwards Solicitors appoints head of public law children
TV Edwards Solicitors has welcomed Alia Lewis as partner and head of public law children. She joins from Duncan, Lewis, & Co.
Licensing operations head joins Bermans
Law firm Bermans has appointed David Crank to head its licensing operations.
Crank, who has joined after 18 years at DWF, acts for leisure and hospitality clients across England, Scotland and Wales, including hotel and restaurant chains and sports clubs.
Anderson Lloyd hires three partners from rival Chapman Tripp
Anderson Lloyd has hired three partners from Chapman Tripp. The senior Partners include Jo Appleyeard, Ben Williams, and Ingrid Taylor.
The Americas
King & Spalding announced today that David Hoskins has joined the firm as a partner on its Healthcare team in its Government Matters and Regulation practice group. He is based in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office.
Hicks Johnson Welcomes Andrew Gould to Lead Appellate Practice Group
Hicks Johnson PLLC has announced that Andrew Gould has joined the firm as partner and leader of its appellate practice in Chicago. He joins from Arnold & Itkin.
Proskauer Rose adds new Partner in New York
Proskauer has added Jon Burke as a partner in our Structured Credit practice. He joins from Dechert.
EMEA
Eversheds Middle East banking head departs for Ashurst in Dubai – Law Middle East
After nearly a two decade-tenure at Eversheds Sutherland, including most recently as partner and head of the Middle East banking and finance practice, Clint Dempsey has departed for Ashurst in Dubai, joining the firm’s global loans practice.
Gibson Dunn poaches Latham & Watkins Partner
Gibson Dunn is bolstering its Saudi capital markets practice with the hiring of Latham & Watkins partner Najla Al-Gadi in Riyadh.
Watson Farley & Williams hire new partner in the Munich office
Jörn Fingerhuth has joined Watson Farley & Williams as a Real Partner in Munich. He joins from Pinsent Masons.
APAC
Kennedys welcomes marine insurance expert in Singapore from RPC
Global law firm Kennedys has strengthened its insurance capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region after hiring marine and offshore energy insurance specialist Iain Anderson as a partner in Singapore from rival RPC.
HFW nabs Jones Day construction disputes partner for Singapore expansion
Global law firm HFW has strengthened its construction disputes practice in Singapore with the hire of Simon Bellas from Jones Day in Australia.
Chia Wong Chambers co-MD to join Dentons Rodyk as senior partner
Singapore’s Dentons Rodyk has hired family law practitioner Wong Kai Yun as a senior partner from Chia Wong Chambers, where she was co-managing director. She will begin her new role in October.
Former Philippine energy chief returns to PJS Law as senior partner
PJS Law, the Philippine member firm of global law firm Dentons, has welcomed back Monalisa Dimalanta as a senior partner, following her tenure as chairperson and CEO of the country’s Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).
Dentons grows projects offering with ex-K&L Gates partner
Global law firm Dentons has hired Dominic Gregory as a partner in its Hong Kong office to strengthen its project finance and development practice.
In-House
Mars Appoints Myriah Gambrell-Glenn as General Counsel for Mars Snacking
Mars, a global leader in confectionery, snacking, food and pet care products and services, announced the appointment of Myriah Gambrell-Glenn as General Counsel for its Snacking business, effective December 1, 2025 in Chicago.
Team Moves
FisherBroyles Expands Cross-Border Capabilities with Three Key Hires
FisherBroyles, LLP, the world’s first and one of the largest distributed law firms, has bolstered its cross-border and regulatory practices with the addition of three seasoned attorneys: Paul McCulloch in New York, and Guillermo Massieu and Leopoldo Olvarría in Mexico City. Their combined experience deepens the firm’s capabilities in international trade, tax, energy, technology, cybersecurity and compliance.
Miller Thomson welcomes the Sodavex team to join its Montréal office
Miller Thomson, Canada’s Business Law firm, is pleased to announce the addition of 7 new lawyers from the Sodavex team to its Montréal office on September 2, expanding the Firm’s national Environmental Law group. The lawyers are as follows: Christine Duchaine, Yves Dulude, Johanna Barrière, Annabelle Marcotte, Thierry Méance, Samuel Rousseau-Mascolo and Laurence Simard.
Addleshaw Goddard launches Tax Disputes and Investigations practice with strategic team hire
Addleshaw Goddard has strengthened its disputes and tax offering with the arrival of partner Steven Porter and a four-strong specialist team from Pinsent Masons. Joining Steven at Addleshaw Goddard are: Sam Wardleworth, Legal Director; Amy Roe, Managing Associate; Sophie Warren, Senior Tax Manager; Rachel Jones, Tax Manager
Promotions & Appointments:
Dr Muiris Ó Céidigh appointed to The Heritage Council
Dr Muiris O Ceidigh Solicitor has been appointed to the Heritage Council. Mr O Ceidigh, a governance expert, is currently a governor of Belfast Metropolitan College, a member of the Property Services Appeals Board and a director at the Irish Architectural Archive. He holds a doctorate in governance from Queens University Belfast.
Office Openings & Closing:
Singapore’s Duxton Hill Chambers launches in London
Leading Singaporean practice Duxton Hill Chambers is launching Duxton Hill Chambers London, marking the first time a Singapore-origin group practice has established a presence at the Bar of England and Wales.
ICSID to establish first overseas office in Singapore
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) and Singapore’s Ministry of Law have signed a Letter of Intent to establish ICSID’s first staffed office outside its Washington D.C. headquarters.
Financials:
US firms post double-digit revenue and profit growth in first half of 2025, study shows
The Wells Fargo Legal Speciality Group’s six-month survey found that average revenue rose 11.3% in the first half of 2025 compared to a year ago, with net income rising 14.5%. The data is based on 67 Am Law 100 and 46 Am Law Second Hundred firms that completed the survey.
Law firm Weightmans posts steady growth and doubles down on international ambition
Liverpool-based national law firm, Weightmans, has reported record revenue of £145m for the financial year ending March 31, 2025. The turnover is a 3.4% increase on the previous year, representing four years of consecutive growth, and building on its record-breaking results in 2023/24. The firm also delivered net profit of £15m, the second highest annual total in its history, reflecting another year of sustained, strategic growth.
Technology & Innovation:
How Neural Data May Shape An Evolving Data Privacy Landscape
Finnegan’s Lynn Parker Dupree and Baker McKenzie’s Lothar Determann discuss a wave of new state laws regarding brainwaves tracked by wearable devices, or data derived from the activity of a person’s central or peripheral nervous system.
Norm Ai Partners With Stanford CodeX On Agentic AI Governance
Regulatory AI developer Norm Ai has launched a new research partnership with Stanford’s CodeX to study governance models for agentic AI systems, reported by Law.com. The center, jointly run by Stanford Law School and the computer science department, will collaborate with Norm Ai to explore how existing legal frameworks can be applied to AI agents as they increasingly take on roles once performed by human decision-makers.
Webber Wentzel selects Legora as anchor technology partner for Innovation Lab
Legora will also serve as the first anchor technology in Webber Wentzel’s newly launched Innovation Lab. This marks the start of a deeper, long-term collaboration and a co-development journey to design solutions purpose-built for the South African and broader African legal markets.
Supio Introduces Instant Demands to Accelerate Pre-Litigation Workflows
Supio, a legal AI platform purpose-built for personal injury law, announced the launch of Instant Demands at the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles annual gathering in Las Vegas. The new feature creates the industry’s most accurate and fully formatted demand letters in minutes, addressing one of the most time-intensive steps in pre-litigation work.
Diversity & Inclusion:
‘Show, Don’t Tell’: How Law Firms Are Promoting DEI to Incoming Talent
While law firms initially plastered their websites with diversity, equity and inclusion programs to attract talent after the death of George Floyd in 2020, the second Trump administration has seen a sudden retreat, at least publicly, of DEI terminology.
Lucrative law firm jobs remain dominated by men
Lucrative senior dealmaking roles in UK law firms remain dominated by men, leaving female partners unable to make a dent in competitive areas of law. Men made up 80 per cent of partners hired into corporate and finance practices in the years 2019 to 2024, according to data from legal recruiter Edwards Gibson.
Market Commentary:
Associate exodus, partner churn – new report highlights law firm talent crunch
Law firms are losing talent at every level, with associates quitting the profession in growing numbers and partners switching firms at record rates, according to new research. Additionally, associates are leaving the profession altogether at nearly double last year’s rate – 17% in 2025, up from 9% in 2024.
Why perspective is a law firm communicator’s greatest skill
Law firm marketers need to wear many hats if they want to get their messaging right for all stakeholders, writes Vinson & Elkins’ chief communications officer Allan Schoenberg.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Perkins Coie recruits technology specialist as partner
Perkins Coie has appointed Arnav Joshi as partner in London. He joins from Clifford Chance.
Bloomsbury Square Employment Law welcomes partner
Bloomsbury Square Employment Law has hired Emily Bradshaw as partner. Bradshaw joins Bloomsbury Square from national firm Pattinson & Brewer, where she was partner and head of employment.
Knights adds regulatory expertise in Bristol
Knights has strengthened its Bristol team with the appointment of experienced regulatory partner Charles Metherell. Bringing 40 years of expertise, Charles joins from JMW Solicitors LLP and specialises in risk, operational, restructuring and strategic services for the legal sector.
The Americas
Pillsbury charges energy capabilities with latest appointment
International law firm has welcomed expert Stephen Humes to its New York office as partner. He joins from Holland & Knight.
Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP has announced that Jacklin “Jackie” Lem, who most recently served as Civil Chief of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office, has joined its Antitrust practice as a partner in the San Francisco, CA office.
Foley Hoag hires former US agency head as partner following Trump firing
Hampton Dellinger joins in Washington DC after being dismissed from the US Office of Special Counsel by president Donald Trump in February.
King & Spalding secures IP litigator pair from Goodwin Procter – The Global Legal Post
King & Spalding has boosted its national IP litigation practice with the hire of two partners from Goodwin Procter. Andrew Ong and Amadou Kilkenny Diaw are joining the Atlanta-based firm in San Francisco and Washington DC respectively.
Perkins Coie has announced that former California Deputy Solicitor General Josh Patashnik has joined the firm’s Litigation practice as a partner in the San Diego office focused on appeals, issues, and strategy.
Davis Polk welcomes West Coast Finance partner Rob Morrison
Davis Polk has announced that leading finance lawyer Rob Morrison has joined the firm as a partner in the Finance practice. He joins from White & Case.
Morrison Cohen Hires K&L Gates Real Estate Partner in New York
Aaron Taishoff joined Morrison Cohen as a partner in its real estate practice in New York. He joins from K&L Gates.
Greenberg Traurig Adds Shareholder to Energy and Infra Practices in Mexico
Carlos Ochoa has joined Greenberg Traurig from Holland & Knight in Mexico.
EMEA
Ex-Baker McKenzie Partner Launches Austrian Antitrust Boutique
Andreas Traugott, the former head of Baker McKenzie’s competition practice in Austria, has departed the global law firm to establish a new boutique specializing in antitrust and regulatory law.
Greenberg Traurig adds new Partner in the Middle East
Greenberg Traurig, LLP has hired a partner from Pinsent Masons to co-lead its Middle East and Europe hospitality practice based from the UAE. Louisa Clare Lynch will steer the practice alongside Elias Hayek, who also recently joined the firm.
APAC
Fenchurch grows SG partner count with ex-DAC Beachcroft partner, promotion
Insurance disputes-focused law firm Fenchurch Law has expanded the partnership at its recently launched Singapore office with the addition of Julian Teoh, a former partner of DAC Beachcroft, and the promotion of director Toby Nabarro.
Former Shook Lin partner joins Nishimura-allied Bayfront as director
Singapore law firm Bayfront Law, Nishimura & Asahi’s local alliance firm, has strengthened its commercial disputes practice with the appointment of Joseph Tay as director from Shook Lin & Bok, where he was an equity partner.
India’s Trilegal grows corporate practice with hire of SAM trio
Indian law firm Trilegal has expanded its corporate offering with the additions of Abhishek Guha (L), Tanya Uppal, and Mahesh Wasadikar as equity partners from Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.
South Korea’s Yoon & Yang grows M&A practice with ex-Yulchon duo
South Korean law firm Yoon & Yang has hired two partners to expand its mergers and acquisitions practice, adding Jin Kook Lee and So Yeon Yoon from rival firm Yulchon.
In-House
Canada’s Manulife lines up former JPMorgan lawyer as next general counsel – The Global Legal Post
Canadian financial services giant Manulife has named Mike Coyne as its next general counsel, replacing Jim Gallagher who is retiring from the company this month. Coyne joins from global banking think tank The Bank Policy Institute (BPI), where he has been working as a senior fellow and litigation strategy advisor since last November.
Anthropic Taps New General Counsel Amid AI Firm’s Funding Push
Anthropic PBC, an artificial intelligence startup in talks to secure $10 billion in new funding, has hired Jeffrey Bleich, a former diplomat and litigator well-known in political and technology circles, as its general counsel.
Team Moves
CMS adds team of seven ex-BCLP lawyers in Hong Kong and one in Singapore – The Global Legal Post
CMS has hired a group of seven lawyers from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) in Hong Kong, taking advantage of the latter firm’s decision to close its office in the special administrative region earlier this year. The incoming team includes two partners – Glenn Haley and Wayne Ma – and will bolster the firm’s construction, infrastructure and real estate coverage in the Asia Pacific region. In addition to the Hong Kong hires, the firm is also adding another lawyer from BCLP in Singapore.
Promotions & Appointments:
Harris Beach Murtha Names New Office Managing Partner in Hartford
Attorney Alfred R. Casella has been appointed managing partner of Harris Beach Murtha’s Hartford office, its largest Connecticut presence. Alfred succeeds Richard A. Marone who served as Hartford office managing partner for three years.
Mergers & Alliances:
PE in the law expands to Sweden as six firms join new group
Private equity in the law expanded to Sweden yesterday with the launch of AGRD Partners, a new group formed by six firms and backed by a Nordic investment house.
Eversheds Sutherland Advances CEE Strategy With 10-Lawyer Czech Tie-Up
Eversheds Sutherland has expanded its Czech presence through an alliance with 10-lawyer Kropáček LEGAL, advancing its broader Central and Eastern Europe growth strategy.
Philippine, Cambodian law firms ink strategic partnership
Philippine firm Florete Law and Cambodia’s A&D Law Firm have entered into a strategic partnership to provide legal services in international arbitration and corporate law for cross-border clients operating between the two countries, the firms announced.
Office Openings & Closing:
Littler Strengthens Canadian Presence with New Office in Québec
Littler, the world’s largest employment and labour law practice representing management, has further strengthened its global platform with the opening of an office in Montréal, Québec.
Ciarb Australia launches in NT
The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) Australia has launched in NT, bolstering access to arbitration and dispute resolution in the state.
Cliffe Dekker Launches Namibia Office with Four-Partner Breakaway Team
The firm has announced the opening of their Namibia Office with a team of Patrick Kauta, Frieda Kishi, Magano Erkana and Mercy Kuzeeko.
Financials:
Travers Smith sees revenue and profits slip in year of ‘market volatility’
Travers Smith has reported a slight fall in revenue and profits for 2024/25, though profits per partner edged up to a new high. The firm’s turnover slipped 2% to £210 million, while profit dropped to £74.1 million from £77 million last year. Despite the dip, PEP inched up to £1.3 million – a new high for the firm. Revenue per lawyer climbed 6%, also the highest to date.
Law firm A&O Shearman posts $3.7 bln in revenues in first year after merger | Reuters
Global law firm A&O Shearman on Thursday said it generated 2.9 billion pounds ($3.7 billion as converted by the firm) in client revenue last year, as the firm reported its first financial results since the completion of a major transatlantic merger. In the year since London-founded Allen & Overy and New York-founded Shearman & Sterling’s merger, the combined 4,000-lawyer firm recorded profit before tax of 1.1 billion pounds ($1.4 billion) and profit per equity partner of 2 million pounds ($2.6 million) for the fiscal year ending April 30.
Addleshaws reports healthy revenue growth as PEP reaches £1m
Addleshaw Goddard has delivered another strong performance, with revenue reaching £551 million and PEP of £1 million for the 2024/25 financial year. The figures mark AG’s eighth straight year of revenue and profit growth. Revenue rose 11%, continuing a run of double-digit growth after last year’s 12% improvement and 2023’s bumper 18%.
Technology & Innovation:
Law Society launches legal tech hub
The Law Society of Ireland has launched a new online resource focused on legal tech.
AI adoption in legal sector risks leaving small firms behind
LawtechUK has issued a warning regarding the growing disparity between large and small law firms, highlighting that smaller practices are facing significant challenges in leveraging emerging AI technologies to remain competitive. The UK lawtech sector has undergone remarkable growth, with over 90% expansion since 2020, resulting in more than 380 companies now operating in the field. The data reveal that while over 82% of UK lawyers are either utilising or plan to adopt AI tools, larger firms are leading this charge—nearly 80% of them have integrated AI into their operations, compared to just 37% of small firms.
Diversity & Inclusion:
‘Show, Don’t Tell’: How Law Firms Are Promoting DEI to Incoming Talent
Firms shifted toward more inclusivity-based language in the immediate aftermath of President Donald Trump’s executive orders and campaign against DEI efforts. According to both National Association of Law Placement executive director Nikia Gray and Fractional Law Firm CMO and co-founder Katherine Wilson, that language of inclusivity has entwined with law firms’ recruitment language as well.
Businesses ‘Recalibrating’ Public Disclosure of DEI to Avoid Regulatory Wrath
“Companies appear increasingly cautious about publishing sensitive demographic data amid intensifying legal, political and reputational scrutiny,” The Conference Board said in a new report.
Market Commentary:
Dubai or Riyadh? Middle East Relocation Options Broaden for Expats
Dubai’s status as the leading legal hub for expat lawyers in the Middle East is being challenged by Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi.
A panel of experts in artificial intelligence said during a Law.com International webcast last week that the appetite for AI adoption in the legal sector in Asia has gained substantial traction, with the industry no longer focused on the potential risks that technology presents and concerns around data protection. Over the past year, SAL has launched new programs to support young lawyers in areas such as the ethical use of generative AI, which in turn helps address key challenges in the local legal market, including high attrition rates and limited practical training. Last year, SAL also launched LawNet AI to research and summarize text from approximately 15,000 case judgments throughout Singapore’s judicial history since 1965.
Northern Ireland to introduce new routes to solicitor qualification
New routes to qualifying as a solicitor in Northern Ireland are set to be introduced in a bid to make the profession more accessible, inclusive and future-focused.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Proskauer hits White & Case for leveraged finance partner in London
Proskauer Rose has added leveraged finance partner Peter Mason in London from White & Case.
Addleshaw Goddard appoints Jack Kennedy as construction and engineering partner
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has appointed Jack Kennedy as partner in its construction and engineering practice in Ireland. He joins from A&L Goodbody.
New partner strengthens Womble Bond Dickinson’s international arbitration team
International law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has appointed Adrian Jones as partner in the firm’s commercial disputes team. He joins from Hill Dickinson.
Perkins Coie adds new Partner to lead on Privacy, data protection, and digital regulation
Arnav Joshi has joined the Partnership at Perkins Coie having previously served as Counsel at Clifford Chance.
The Americas
Weil taps Latham for two more IP litigators
Chris Henry and Gaby LaHatte have joined Weil’s new IP, technology and science litigation practice. Henry has joined the firm in Boston after nearly three years as a partner at Latham, while LaHatte has made partner on joining Weil’s San Francisco office, having been a counsel at Latham.
Kirkland & Ellis Adds Nationally Recognized Antitrust Attorney Maria Raptis
Kirkland & Ellis announced today that leading antitrust lawyer Maria Raptis has joined the Firm as a partner in New York. She joins from Skadden.
Proskauer has welcomes partner Richard Westling to its Litigation Department and Health Care Group in the Los Angeles and Washington D.C. offices. He joins from Epstein, Becker and Green.
Troutman Pepper Locke Brings on 2 Charlotte Partners
Michael Cecka, David Fialkow, and Melissa Kato have joined Troutman Pepper Locke as partners and members of the commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) special servicer team within the firm’s Bankruptcy and Restructuring Practice. Cecka, Fialkow, and Kato join Troutman Pepper Locke from K&L Gates, where their practices focused on real estate finance and loan servicing.
Cadwalader Corporate Leader, 40-Year Vet Exits for McDermott
Ira Schacter, a longtime Cadwalader lawyer who leads the firm’s corporate practice, is leaving for the newly formed McDermott Will & Schulte in New York.
Kirkland Expands Product Liability and Mass Tort Litigation Practice with Addition of Burt Snell
Kirkland & Ellis has announced that product liability and mass tort litigator Nils B. (Burt) Snell has joined the Firm as a partner in Philadelphia. He joins from Butler Snow.
Baker McKenzie Adds Dealmaker Jenny Liu, Further Strengthening Private Equity, M&A Teams
Baker McKenzie has announced that transactional lawyer Jenny Liu has joined the Firm as a Partner in its Transactional Practice. Jenny will work from the Firm’s New York and Palo Alto offices.
Dentons welcomes corporate partner Myron Mallia-Dare in Toronto
Dentons has announced the addition of Myron A. Mallia-Dare – who is experienced in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, corporate finance, and venture financing – as a partner in the multinational law firm’s corporate group in Toronto. Her joins from Miller Thompson.
Seyfarth Shaw adds new Partner to Litigation Department
We are thrilled to welcome Cory Davis to our Litigation department as a partner based out of our Atlanta office. Cory joins from Baker & Hostetler.
EMEA
A&0 have announced the double hire of partners Kristof Meynaerts and Severina Käppeli.
Kristof and Severina join from Clifford Chance, bringing respectively 17 and 12 years of experience and deep expertise across regulated and unregulated investment funds.
JBV welcomes new hire to the Partnership in Luxembourg
Bart Vermatt has joined JBV as Partner in Luxembourg, after serving as partner at Bonn & Schmitt for just over a year.
Latham & Watkins capital markets partner to join Gibson Dunn in Riyadh
Latham & Watkins capital markets partner Najla Al-Gadi is due to join Gibson Dunn in Riyadh,
APAC
A&O Shearman adds new Partner in Perth
A&O have expanded their litigation practice with the addition of partner Catherine Pedler, who joins today in our Perth office. She joins from Ashurst.
GXS Bank founding counsel joins Focus Law Asia as corporate head
Singapore-based boutique firm Focus Law Asia has strengthened its corporate practice with the appointment of Elizabeth Fong as director and head of corporate. Fong joins FLA from her role as founding general counsel and company secretary of GXS Bank, the Grab-Singtel digital bank.
Thailand’s Chandler Mori Hamada builds tax heft with Law Alliance trio
Leading Thai law firm Chandler Mori Hamada has bolstered its tax capabilities with the addition of three lawyers from boutique firm Law Alliance led by Piphob Veraphong. Joining him are Rachanee Prasongprasit as partner and Theeravuth Temsiriwattanakul as associates.
Simmons hires fund finance expert from Mayer Brown as partner
International law firm Simmons & Simmons has hired Ester Chow as a partner in its Hong Kong financial markets practice from Mayer Brown, where she was a counsel.
In-House
GC Veers into Higher Ed After Quarter-Century with Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Association
Georgia College & State University has named Charles Norton Jr., a veteran Georgia attorney with extensive in-house legal experience, as associate vice president and general counsel. He is joining the school from the Atlanta-based Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Association.
TOPLAND Group hires new General Counsel
Simon Levene has joined TOPLAND Group as General Counsel from SitusAMC.
Paint-maker PPG to promote deputy GC to top lawyer role
Global paint and speciality materials company PPG has lined up Joe Gette as its next general counsel, replacing Anne Foulkes when she steps down at the start of next year. Gette is currently the company’s deputy GC and secretary, a role he has held since 2022.
Shopify has hired a new Associate General Counsel
Sinead Finnerty has joined the Shopify team as their new Associate General Counsel after serving as Counsel as Fastly.
Team Moves
Simmons hires Real Estate Team in Frankfurt
Marc Bohne, Dr. Moritz Vettermann, Felix Krüger and Jochen Schnepper have joined Simmons & Simmons in Frankfurt. They all join from Goodwin.
Seyfarth Shaw hires 3-Lawyer Team to bolster their Real Estate and Construction Practice
Seyfrth law welcomes the addition of a three-lawyer team to their Downtown Los Angeles office: partner Brenda Kosma Radmacher, counsel Heather Frisch, and associate Christopher Bouquet. They join from Goodwin.
Promotions & Appointments:
Reed Smith appoints Benjamin Fliegel as new office managing partner in Los Angeles
Global law firm Reed Smith has appointed Benjamin Fliegel as the new office managing partner of its Los Angeles office. He succeeds Jennifer Terry.
GRSM Names Mollie Burks and Alyson Cabrera to Lead Northern California Region
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani has announced that Mollie Burks and Alyson Cabrera have been named Co-Managing Partners of Northern California, effective February 1, 2026. This leadership role oversees a broad and strategically significant region that includes the firm’s offices in San Francisco, Walnut Creek, Silicon Valley, Sacramento, Monterey, and Fresno.
Mergers & Alliances:
Morris, Manning & Martin to merge with fast-growing Am Law 100 firm
Taft Stettinius & Hollister (Taft) and Morris, Manning & Martin has announced their plan to combine effective Dec. 31, 2025. The Morris Manning combination is Taft’s latest move in becoming one of the leading middle-market firms in the United States and reflects Morris Manning’s evolution in partnering with a national Am Law 100 firm.
Office Openings & Closing:
Freshfields launches Saudi office
Freshfields has announced the launch of a standalone office in Saudi Arabia and a strategic alliance with the Law Firm of Salah Al-Hejailan (LFSH), its long-standing associated firm in the Kingdom.
Chinese Law Firms Expand in Hong Kong as Western Competitors Retreat from Legal Market
Zhong Yin Law Firm, a prominent Chinese legal practice, has recently launched a new office in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in its international growth strategy. This move reflects a broader trend among China’s leading law firms, often referred to as the “red circle,” which are capitalizing on the retreat of U.S. and European firms from the region.
Law firm Saxton & Stump to open permanent office in downtown Pittsburgh
A law firm that has quietly had boots on the ground in Pittsburgh since 2023 and revved up hiring in 2025 confirmed to the Business Times that it expects to establish a permanent office downtown this fall. Saxton & Stump has been operating in shared space at 1 PPG Place, according to its website. It did not disclose where the new office will be located but said it is taking more than 12,000 square feet.
Financials:
Eversheds PEP jumps 8% to £1.4m in eighth straight year of growth
Eversheds Sutherland’s international arm has posted its eighth consecutive year of revenue and profit growth, with turnover for 2024/25 up 3% to £769 million and PEP climbing 8% to £1.4 million.
TLT sustains long term growth with revenue rise
UK law firm TLT continues its strong record of growth posting a seven per cent rise in turnover from £82m in 2017/18 to £87.6m this year, representing a near 50% increase in revenues over the last five years.
Fieldfisher revenue increases to €446m
European law firm Fieldfisher has reported firmwide revenue of around €446 million. The firm’s headline firmwide revenue figure of £385m represents a one per cent increase on an annualised basis.
Pinsent Masons turnover rises to €810m
Multinational law firm Pinsent Masons has reported a 7.2 per cent increase in revenue to €809.6 million in its most recent fiscal year. Profit per equity partner rose by 2.93 per cent to reach €949,000 in the year ending 30 April 2025, according to the firm’s unaudited financial results.
Lewis Silkin’s profits soar as firm hails IP ‘growth mode’
The firm said revenue from its ‘refreshed and expanded’ IP team increased by 4% in FY25.
Technology & Innovation:
Inside the Gen AI Tools Freshfields Built from its Google Partnership
In April, Freshfields announced its partnership with Google Cloud in hopes of bolstering artificial intelligence-focused innovation and product development at the firm. Since then, the firm has built a number of proprietary tools using Google’s AI offerings. Both George and Perez said that, although they are evaluating the use cases and accuracy of gen AI from tech vendors, they have not yet figured out how to measure return on investment for their products.
Latham & Watkins Embraces Harvey AI, Setting a New Standard in Legal Tech Innovation
Latham & Watkins, one of the world’s leading law firms, has recently adopted Harvey, a promising AI tool, signalling a competitive edge in the legal technology landscape. This development highlights the growing reliance on artificial intelligence in the legal industry, as firms increasingly look to technology to enhance efficiency and accuracy in legal work. Harvey has been noted for its advanced capabilities in automating complex legal processes, a feature that has attracted Latham & Watkins amidst intense competition from other AI offerings such as Legora.
Fieldfisher launches free AI training resources
Fieldfisher has announced its support for the launch of a new suite of free online resources under the AI, Law, and Legal Training project. This initiative aims to promote the ethical and responsible use of generative AI (GenAI) within legal contexts. Led by The Open University in collaboration with the University of Lincoln and Citizens Advice, the project addresses both the risks and opportunities that GenAI presents in the legal and access to justice sectors.
New research shows in-house legal tech adoption surging as Gen AI gains ground
A new survey of more than 150 GCs has highlighted the extent to which technology is transforming in-house legal teams. GC Pulse 2025, which was conducted by Legal Business in association with Thomson Reuters, has revealed that 44% of corporate legal departments are now using legal technology frequently or all the time — a sharp rise from 34% in 2024.
Legal startup Legarly debuts to digitise legal practice
A new player named Legarly.com has entered Africa’s growing legal technology market, with the Lagos-based startup officially launching with a mission to digitise and streamline legal practice across the continent. The all-in-one, cloud-based platform is designed specifically for lawyers, law firms, and in-house counsel, providing a suite of tools to manage core processes, from matter tracking and client onboarding to invoicing, document sharing, and automated reminders.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Law Firms Not Required to Answer EEOC Letters; ‘Most’ Didn’t Provide Diversity Info, DOJ Says
Law firms were not required to submit information on their diversity hiring practices, despite 20 law firms in March receiving threatening letters from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Justice Department said in a court filing.
Market Commentary:
Willkie Farr & Gallagher Adapts to Market Shifts with San Francisco Staff Cuts and Retention Bonuses
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP has proceeded with staff reductions in its San Francisco office. While details on the exact number of cuts remain undisclosed, the firm also announced initiatives aimed at fostering retention and morale among its existing workforce. This dual approach emerges as part of a larger trend within the legal industry, where firms are balancing cost-cutting measures with efforts to retain talented professionals.
A Double-Edged Sword: How Law Firms Can Make Their Bonus Systems Work for Them
Used properly, a well-structured bonus system can function as a vital tool to attract and retain talent. On the ‘carrot’ side of the equation, one-off payments under the bonus scheme can function as an especially useful way to soften the blow for lateral hires who are leaving a significant amount of money on the table at their previous firms. For individual lawyers who record a knockout year of billing but whose compensation does not necessarily reflect it, irregular bonuses can be used to make sure they feel adequately paid for their achievements. So long as this is communicated clearly to the rest of the partnership, this is usually uncontroversial.
People and persuasion techniques for in-house lawyers
Solicitor and business owner Robyn Sandilands shares some techniques for in-house lawyers to help you to communicate effectively with the wider business, ensure healthy working relationships, and persuade those with little-to-no legal background of legal’s role in business decision-making.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Paul, Weiss Expands Litigation Practice in London With Addition of Commercial Litigator
Leo Kitchen will join the firm in London as a partner in the Litigation Department, continuing the growth of its London litigation capabilities. He joins from Quinn Emanuel.
Proskauer Welcomes Regulatory Partner Anna Maleva-Otto in London
Anna Maleva-Otto has joined Proskauer Rose as a regulatory partner in the Firm’s Private Funds Group. She joins from Schulte Roth & Zabel.
Fried Frank Lands Another Goodwin Partner in London
David Evans joins Fried Frank from Goodwin, bringing over 30 years of experience in real estate law, particularly in joint ventures, M&A, and real estate fund structuring.
TLT hires Jonathan O’Hagan as real estate partner in Belfast
TLT has appointed commercial real estate expert Jonathan O’Hagan as a partner in the firm’s Belfast office. Mr O’Hagan joins TLT from DWF
Robert Hickmott Rejoins Quinn Emanuel as General Counsel and Partner
Robert Hickmott has return to Quinn Emanuel as General Counsel and Partner after a 3 year break.
Mayo firm J.V. Geary Solicitors welcomes Ita Feeney as partner
Mayo-based J.V. Geary Solicitors has moved to a formal partnership structure, with principal solicitor John Geary welcoming his long-standing colleague Ita Feeney as a partner in the firm.
Gateley adds new Non-Executive Director
Sunil Gadhia has taken on a new role as an Independent Non-Executive Director of professional services group Gateley, joining their Plc board. Founded in Birmingham in 1808, Gateley has provided commercial legal services to individuals and businesses over the last 200 years.
White & Case Finance Partner Moves to DLA Piper
DLA Piper has hired London-based finance partner Sudhir Nair from White & Case, where he spent six years. Nair’s move follows a string of senior finance hires at DLA and bolsters its cross-border real estate and infrastructure investment capabilities.
The Americas
Kirkland REIT M&A Partner Jumps to Gibson Dunn
Kirkland & Ellis real estate M&A partner David Perechocky joined Gibson Dunn in New York.
Paul Weiss US Private Equity Partner Walks to Willkie
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP has announced that Usman Arain has joined the Firm as a partner in the Private Equity Practice Group. He is based in the Firm’s San Francisco and Palo Alto offices. He joins from Paul Weiss.
Haynes and Boone Taps Ex-Winston Partner to Lead Financial Investigations Group
Haynes and Boone has hired Richard Weber—former Winston & Strawn partner and ex-general counsel of the NY State Department of Financial Services—as chair of its financial services investigations and enforcement practice in New York. Weber brings deep white collar and compliance expertise, adding to the firm’s 20-strong 2025 lateral partner intake.
Cadwalader Snags Sidley Partner to Co-Lead CRE CLO Practice Amid Revenue Surge
Cadwalader has hired Sidley Austin’s Steven Kolyer to co-head its commercial real estate CLO practice alongside Jeffrey Rotblat. The move comes as the firm reports being “pacing ahead” of 2024’s 15.7% revenue growth, despite earlier real estate team departures to Sidley.
Vartabedian Hester Adds Former Federal Prosecutor to Growing White Collar Team
Vartabedian Hester & Haynes has hired Richard Guiltinan, an eight-year U.S. Attorney’s Office veteran, as a partner in Dallas. Guiltinan, who led major False Claims Act and health care fraud cases, joins the firm’s expanding white collar and investigations practice launched in July.
Weil Adds Two More IP Litigators From Latham
Weil Gotshal & Manges has hired Chris Henry in Boston and Gaby LaHatte in San Francisco from Latham & Watkins. Their arrival follows a trio of Latham IP litigation partners who joined Weil in July to co-lead its IP, technology and science litigation practice.
Butler Snow Adds Former Texas Ethics Commission Head to Austin Office
Butler Snow has hired J.R. Johnson, former executive director and general counsel of the Texas Ethics Commission, as part of its Specialized Advocacy group. Johnson brings over 15 years’ litigation and government affairs experience in both the public and private sectors.
EMEA
Pusch Wahlig Workplace Law adds new Partner
Dr. Timon Grau has joined Pusch Wahlig Workplace Law as Partner in Düsseldorf. He joins from Linklaters.
EIP expands Scandinavian practice
EIP is expanding its European practice by bringing on board Finnish patent attorney Michael Nielsen. Joining from Berggren, Nielsen will primarily support EIP’s litigation team.
APAC
Experienced Technology Transactions Partner Joins Latham in Hong Kong
Rhys McWhirter has joined the Hong Kong office as a partner in the Data & Technology Transactions and Artificial Intelligence Practices. McWhirter joins from Eversheds.
Tax team boost for K&L Gates in Sydney
K&L Gates has announced that it has welcomed Annalie Mitchelson to its Sydney office. She joins as a partner in the firm’s tax practice following a six-year stint as a partner at Deloitte Legal.
KWM brings on ex-Ashurst, White & Case, HSF partner as restructuring head
Sino-Australian law firm King & Wood Mallesons has hired Damien Whitehead as the head of restructuring at its Hong Kong office. He joins from Ashurst.
Counsel Katie Joukadjian rejoins Clifford Chance to take the lead on Construction team
The global firm has launched a front-end construction team in Australia, led by counsel Katie Joukadjian. Joukadjian rejoins Clifford Chance from Pinsent Masons, having previously worked on major infrastructure projects at the firm’s own Abu Dhabi office. She brings extensive expertise across the renewables, mining, real estate, and infrastructure sectors as she returns to lead this new offering.
Rajah & Tann makes double litigation hire from Bayfront Law in Singapore
Rajah & Tann Singapore has appointed Paras Lalwani and Reka Mohan as partners from Bayfront Law to strengthen its commercial litigation practice.
Corrs Chambers Westgarth Hires Gilbert + Tobin Executive Partner in Sydney
Corrs Chambers Westgarth has recruited Tim Gordon, former executive partner at Gilbert + Tobin, to its Sydney corporate team. Gordon brings over a decade of experience in high-profile M&A, capital raisings, joint ventures, restructurings and regulatory investigations.
Ex-KWM Australia Managing Partner Tony O’Malley Named Board Chair at Wotton Kearney
Tony O’Malley, former managing partner at King & Wood Mallesons Australia, has become board chair at Wotton Kearney, succeeding Steve Gledden. O’Malley brings over 25 years of leadership experience across law, business, and consulting to guide the firm’s growth and strategy.
In-House
US soft toy-maker Build-A-Bear Workshop names new legal head as GC retires
Yevgeny Fundler, who was previously CLO at agtech business Benson Hill, replaces Eric Fencl
Team Moves
Crowell & Moring Raids Reed Smith, Snags 16-Partner Healthcare Powerhouse and Expands Into Texas
Crowell & Moring has scooped up an entire healthcare litigation unit from rival firm Reed Smith, pulling over 40 legal professionals—including 16 partners—into its ranks and planting its flag in Texas with a new Dallas office.
Corrs Chambers Westgarth takes corporate and banking partner group from MinterEllison
Leading Australian firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth has added six corporate and banking partners from local rival MinterEllison. Private equity specialists Ricky Casali, Glen Sauer, Chris Allen and newly-made partner Andrew Hewson have joined Corrs’ corporate group, while financing partners Stewart Robertson and John Mosley have joined the firm’s banking and finance practice.
Eversheds Sutherland’s Irish arm has seen four corporate partners and their teams exit in Dublin for top Irish independent William Fry. Partners Gerard Ryan, Gavin O’Flaherty, Enda Newton and Maria O’Brien have joined William Fry.
Lewis Silkin opens in Scotland with three-lawyer Glasgow employment team
The incoming lawyers will be based in Glasgow and include Carolyn Miller, who joins as a partner from independent employment law consultancy Fish To Water and will head up the new office; Gillian Ross, who joins as a legal director from Pinsent Masons; and Alasdair McCrone, who joins as a senior associate from Addleshaw Goddard.
Womble Bond Dickinson adds 20-strong team from Nashville firm Neal & Harwell
Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has hired a group of 20 lawyers from Nashville-based litigation boutique Neal & Harwell to further expand its footprint in the city. The incoming team includes 15 partners and represents the bulk of the attorneys at Neal & Harwell. The partners joining Womble Bond are: Ben Aaron, Tom Dundon, Phil Elbert, Ron Harris, Callie Hinson, Jim Kelley, Bill Ramsey, Isaac Sanders, Jim Sanders, Nathan Sanders, Mariam Stockton, Jim Thomas, David Thompson, Liz Tipping and Jeffrey Zager.
Sterlington Welcomes Leading Private Wealth Team from Morgan Lewis
Sterlington has announced the addition of a premier Private Wealth team in New York, including partners Daniel Cooper, Emalee Welsh, and Daniel Carmody, who join the firm from Morgan Lewis.
Promotions & Appointments:
Anna Beggan appointed to Queen’s University Belfast senate
Employment lawyer Anna Beggan has been appointed as an independent lay member of the senate which governs Queen’s University Belfast.
Nelsons announces two new partners
Nelsons has marked a significant milestone with the promotion of two team members to partners, alongside 13 other promotions across the firm. Danielle Young, from the clinical negligence team in Leicester, and Sam Cawley, from Nottingham’s investment management department, have both achieved partnership status amidst a wider set of advancements.
Mergers & Alliances:
Freshfields and LFSH enter strategic alliance to serve clients in Saudi Arabia
Global law firm Freshfields and the Law Firm of Salah Al-Hejailan LLC (LFSH) have announced the next chapter in their strategic alliance to continue to provide market-leading expertise to clients in Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East.
Macpherson Kelley Expands Into South Australia with O’Loughlins Lawyers Acquisition
Macpherson Kelley is entering the South Australian market by absorbing Adelaide-based O’Loughlins Lawyers, effective September 1. The deal brings key partners and specialists in health, aged care, and retirement living, enhancing Macpherson Kelley’s national sector capabilities.
Chicago’s Harrison LLP Expands to San Francisco With 11-Lawyer Team
Harrison LLP, a wealth planning firm founded in Chicago, has opened a San Francisco Bay Area office staffed by 11 lawyers from estate planning boutique Barulich Dugoni Suttmann & Cummins. The expansion strengthens Harrison’s national footprint and Bay Area presence.
Office Openings & Closing:
Historic Nashville Firm Neal & Harwell to Close After Five Decades
Neal & Harwell, a respected Nashville commercial litigation firm, is winding down operations as of August 31 after nearly 50 years. Over recent months, most of its lawyers have transitioned to major national firms Womble Bond Dickinson and Adams & Reese.
Harrison Achieves Coast-to-Coast Private Wealth Law Presence with New San Francisco Bay Area Office
Harrison LLP, a premier national private wealth planning law firm, today announced the opening of its new office in the San Francisco Bay Area. With this strategic addition, Harrison officially becomes a coast-to-coast operation, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s growth and geographic reach.
Gibson Dunn Expands Century City Office, Aligning with Evolving Legal Firm Trends
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP has recently expanded its footprint in the Century City area of Los Angeles, moving into a significantly larger office space. This marks a notable development for the firm, which first established its presence in this vibrant neighborhood about 40 years ago. The move aims to accommodate the firm’s growing team and its increasing portfolio of high-stakes legal work in this strategic location.
HFW relocates to larger Saudi office amidst team expansion
HFW has moved to a larger office in Saudi Arabia to accommodate its expanding team.
The global firm has relocated its office to Tuwaiq Gate on King Fahad Road, one of the main transport axes in Riyadh and a key link between the south and north of the city. It was previously based in Olaya Towers on Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Road.
Financials:
Clyde & Co’s revenue increases 3% in 27th consecutive year of growth
Clyde & Co’s revenues grew 3% on a constant currency basis, to £854 million, its 27th consecutive year of growth. Profit at the firm increased 1.8% to £177.5 million.
Harvey reaches $100m ARR – nearly half of top 100 US firms use the platform
Legal AI startup Harvey has reached $100 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) just three years after launch, underscoring its rapid ascent as one of the most prominent players in the post‑ChatGPT legal tech boom.
Irwin Mitchell and Walker Morris results add to profit bonanza
Irwin Mitchell Group reported this week that total profit before tax increased by 13% to £24.6 million in the year ended April 2025. This was based on total revenue going up by 8% to £329.3m. Cash reserves rose from £59m to £69m. The firm continues to be debt free.
Technology & Innovation:
BCLP partners with Legora after thorough and extensive pilot
After a successful pilot that saw rigorous testing by over 100 of its lawyers across multiple practice areas and jurisdictions, international law firm BCLP has now partnered with Legora. The platform will be rolled out across the firm to streamline operational processes and improve efficiency. BCLP’s lawyers tested the platform in a range of workflows, including document review, due diligence, and legal drafting. BCLP’s Innovation Team has identified numerous opportunities where Legora can make a real difference in enhancing service delivery and ensuring favourable outcomes for the firm’s clients.
The digital transformation of the UK legal profession in 2025
The Legal Trends Report 2025 found that 60% of law firms are planning to upgrade their digital systems in 2025. This drive for system modernisation stems from a need for seamless, integrated solutions. Outdated systems can create bottlenecks, and 24% of lawyers highlight the importance of better system integration to enhance their operational confidence. Firms making these upgrades are laying the foundation for smoother workflows and more agile responses to complex legal operations.
How technology will help firms keep up with new AML regulations
Checkboard helps firms adapt to changing regulations. By automating AML, KYC, identity, address, and source of funds checks, firms can conduct rigorous ongoing monitoring at the touch of a button. It highlights areas of risk as they emerge, so firms can detect red flags in every transaction and every client relationship. In doing so, it provides firms with a clear audit trail for fast, accurate regulatory compliance. It’s a smarter, more efficient approach to onboarding and ongoing monitoring that applies to any new regulatory regime.
Lack of AI Transparency Is Straining Law Firm-Client Trust, Litera CEO Warns
Avaneesh Marwaha, CEO of legal tech company Litera, believes that while many firms are embracing AI in their workflows, too few are addressing the elephant in the room: transparency. In high-stakes matters like M&A, clients increasingly want to know how legal work is being done—especially if AI is playing a role. Yet, Marwaha says, many firms aren’t consistently sharing that information. “I think we’re early, early days in figuring out long-term pricing models that firms might face with gen AI,” Marwaha said. “At the same point, clients have the right to ask—where are you using it? Where is my data being processed? Those are all fair questions.”
Diversity & Inclusion:
2025 GC Pay Report: Women Scoring Big Paydays, but Men Still Landing Most of the Plum Jobs
When women land Fortune 1000 general counsel posts, the pay they collect is on par with what men earn. But men still are landing the vast majority of the jobs, and progress in narrowing that gap appears to have stalled. Corporate Counsel, which last week published its annual highest-paid general counsel list, on Tuesday rolled out its rankings of the highest-paid female legal chiefs. Six women cracked the top 20, up from five last year but down from nine in 2023. See the full 2025 female GC rankings below the story.
Market Commentary:
Better Together: When GCs and CFOs Collaborate for Strategic Impact
When GCs understand the financial engine of the business—including the company’s economic model, key forecast assumptions, and primary revenue and cost drivers—they are better equipped to make strategic legal decisions that account for business impact. Similarly, when CFOs understand the company’s legal priorities, risk posture, and approach to managing outside counsel, they can more accurately forecast costs, assess risk-adjusted outcomes, and support forward-looking strategy. Collaboration between the GC and CFO not only strengthens organizational performance but also drives the strategic influence and career development of both leaders.
Private Equity Partners in NY Are Making Fewer Moves, Even Amid Active Lateral Market
The lateral hiring market has been particularly active at Am Law 200 firms. But the New York private equity practice space has seen fewer partner moves in the first half of the year than it did for the same period in 2024, a trend which sources attribute to economic uncertainty and law firms being more selective in their hiring.
Is there something we can help you with?
If not right now, we can include you on next weeks' newsletter update?
CLICK HERE