Moves:
UK & Ireland
Paul Weiss Continues London Expansion with Litigation Hire from Akin
According to a person with knowledge of the situation, the firm has added Akin partner Richard Hornshaw and established a U.K. litigation practice.
Travers Boosts Finance Team with Hire from Fried Frank
Mandip Englund joins Travers’s string of recent lateral hires. She has advised clients including boards of companies, private equity sponsors, credit funds and distressed funds, insolvency practitioners, pension trustees and clearing banks/investment banks.
Eversheds Swoops for DLA Co-Head of UK Tech Disputes
Simon Kenyon, a former senior partner at DLA Piper, has joined Eversheds Sutherland, expanding its technology, media, and telecoms practice. This calculated action is expected to increase Eversheds’ visibility in the UK tech disputes market.
Sidley Swoops for Another Latham London Partner
According to someone with knowledge of the situation, the firm has acquired about 40 attorneys from Latham & Watkins in the past year. One such partner is Jayanthi Sadanandan who is ranked Tier 1 for Baking and Finance by Chambers and Partners 2024.
Ashurst grows London Real Estate team with new partner hire
Ashurst, a worldwide law firm, has expanded its expertise in the global real estate industry by adding Lee Foxcroft as a partner in its London real estate department. With an emphasis on data centers, technology, and the senior housing industry, Lee brings a wealth of experience in real estate joint ventures and co-investment arrangements to the table.
Greenberg Traurig hits Reed Smith for London infrastructure partner
To strengthen its infrastructure bench in London, Greenberg Traurig (GT) has brought on a partner from Reed Smith. After working for his previous company for eighteen years, Richard Ceeney has joined GT as a shareholder.
APAC
Japan’s Big Four Firm Mori Hamada Secures Corporate Partner from MoFo Tokyo
The company handles some of the most well-known deals in Japan, such as Bain Capital’s $3.3 billion pharmaceutical acquisition of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma.
Bakers SG firm expands cap markets offering with hire from A&O Shearman
McKenzie Baker Alexander Stathopoulos, a seasoned capital markets attorney, was promoted from A&O Shearman to the position of principal at Wong & Leow, a Baker McKenzie member firm in Singapore. Stathopoulos specializes in cross-border equity capital markets offerings in Southeast Asia and has more than 20 years of expertise in international capital markets.
Two KCs join Singapore operation of NZ’s Bankside Chambers
Law chambers in New Zealand Bankside have designated seasoned British legal clerk David Grief as its coordinator in the city-state of Singapore and has assigned Andrew Butler KC (L) and Kelly Quinn KC to its Singapore office.
Khaitan adds real estate partner from AZB in Pune
Alpesh Parekh, a real estate lawyer from AZB & Partners, was hired by Indian law firm Khaitan & Co. to bolster its Pune office. This is the firm’s first lateral partner addition in the city since its founding in December 2023.
EMEA
Willkie Hires High-Profile Duo from Gibson Dunn’s German Antitrust Team
Willkie Farr Gallagher has strategically bolstered its European antitrust capabilities by hiring a high-profile duo from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. The team, led by prominent antitrust partner Georg Weidenbach, is set to enhance Willkie’s footprint in Germany and other significant European markets. This move underscores Willkie’s commitment to expanding its antitrust platform across Europe.
Mayer Brown taps Dechert for capital markets partner
Rafe Khokhar most recently worked as a securities and corporate attorney. Khokar advises financial institutions, sovereign entities, asset managers and sovereign wealth funds on capital markets, regulatory capital instruments, Islamic finance and Sharia-compliant products, and liability management transactions.
The Americas
Former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema Joins Hogan Lovells in D.C.
The former senator from Arizona began her professional career as a criminal defense lawyer and went on to serve three years in the House.
Davis Polk Adds Structured Finance Partner from Cadwalader
Ryan McNaughton’s arrival gives the company’s increasing emphasis on private finance a securitization component.
Paul Hastings Adds ECVC Partner From Wilson Sonsini in NorCal
Frank Lopez the firms Chair has said that Mike Pestana’s arrival will help the firm in working with clients moving from “pre-IPO to large public company.”
Mayer Brown Adds Longtime National Security Official to Lead White Collar Practice
Wainstein spent roughly five years as a partner at Davis, Polk & Wardwell prior to his most recent government assignment.
Freshfields New York M&A Partner Exits as Firm Tackles ‘Credibility’ Issue in US Market
Along with Ethan Klingsberg and other prominent Cleary corporate figures, the partner joined the firm in 2019, which was seen as a huge U.S. team hire by the U.K.-founded legal company and a springboard for its present success in the United States.
Paul Hastings Expands Litigation Practice in Houston with King & Spalding Partner
Craig Stanfield, who started working for Paul Hastings on Monday, stated that the company’s presence, extensive procedures, and dedication to expansion in Texas drew him in.
Expanding Its Finance Practice, Haynes and Boone Adds Derivatives Partner in New York
Michele “Miki” Navazio, a partner at Seward & Kissel, joined Haynes and Boone in New York as a co-chair of the firm’s derivatives practice.
Before Locke Lord’s health care practice group merged with Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, Tammy Woffenden, a partner at Troutman Pepper Locke, co-chaired the group.
People in the News—April 4, 2025—Marshall Dennehey, Stradley Ronon
Professional liability lawyer Kyle T. McGee has become a stakeholder in Marshall Dennehey’s Pittsburgh office.
In-House
Ex-GC of Raiders, Cardinals Becomes Packers’ Top Lawyer
When Kevin Manara takes over as CEO in July, longtime General Counsel Ed Policy will relinquish his legal responsibilities.
The GC Who Took Facebook Public Takes Legal Reins of NFL
Ted Ullyot is a well-known Republican who served as Attorney General Alberto Gonzales’ chief of staff, a clerk for Justice Antonin Scalia of the Supreme Court, and an advisor to President George W. Bush.
KFC Legal Chief Flies the Coop for Chicken Chain Bojangles
As Bojangles moves forward with aspirations to reach 1,000 stores, Kate Ward is taking over the company’s legal management.
Latham Star to Captain American Airlines Legal Team
After Priya Aiyar left for Warner Bros. Discovery in February, the biggest passenger airline in the world started looking for a new legal chief.
Year-Old Legal Technology Startup Hires Former Alphabet Lawyer as GC
John Lee, the company’s general counsel and head of strategy, stated, “Ruli’s potential for integration across workflows to solve fundamental challenges in the legal industry is unmatched.”
Diageo General Counsel Departs for US Healthcare Giant
In 2021, Tom Shropshire left Linklaters, where he was the head of the U.S. division of the law firm, to join Diageo.
Green Bay Packers sign GC from Arizona Cardinals as previous legal head named CEO
In lieu of Ed Policy, who is being elevated to the position of president and CEO, the American football franchise Green Bay Packers has appointed Kevin Manara as its general counsel.
Team Moves
Cleary Hires 5-Partner IP Lit Team from Latham
Victor Hou, co-leader of Cleary’s Americas litigation practice, described the group addition as a “game changer” for the company.
Paul Hastings, After Hiring 3 White & Case Partners, Lays Out Abu Dhabi Strategy
Paul Hastings wants to use its new Abu Dhabi base and cross-border energy and infrastructure experience to link investments from the Middle East and Europe.
Hogan Lovells Adds 4-Partner Litigation Team from Kramer Levin
The group, headed by former leader of the litigation department Gary Orseck, arrives as Kramer Levin seeks to complete its proposed merger with Herbert Smith Freehills.
Freeman Mathis & Gary Hires Three Partners in Tampa After Significant Fla. Expansion in 2024
After a year of quick growth in Florida, the Georgia-based company is expanding its Tampa office with three health care partners, with more to follow.
Fox Rothschild Loses 4 Labor Attorneys to Jackson Lewis, Pierson Ferdinand
A day prior to partner Jerry Hathaway’s relocation to Pierson Ferdinand, partner Bryn Goodman and two associates announced their move to Jackson Lewis.
Holland & Knight Snags Finance Team from Seward & Kissel in New York
Law firm Holland & Knight has poached key a maritime finance team of smaller, New York-based rival Seward & Kissel, sources told TradeWinds. The team is led by partner Michael Timpone, alongside partners Sophia Agathis and Kurt Plankl.
Macfarlanes Trio Leaves for DAC Beachcroft
All three were in Macfarlanes’ real estate department for the best part of a decade.
Financials:
Eager to Retain Legal Chief Through Merger, Shyft Group Quadruples His Pay
Joshua Sherbin received $3.2 million in shares and a $1.6 million retention incentive from the specialty vehicle manufacturer in 2024, which was five times more than his award the previous year.
DLA Piper Surpasses $4B in Revenue, nears 5K Lawyers as Firm Strives to Expand in Key Areas
In 2025, DLA Piper is focused on generating lucrative revenue in “white hot” markets and practice areas.
Faegre Drinker Hits $1 Billion in Revenue
The company’s gross sales climbed 7.1% in the sixth year following a successful merger, and its profits per partner surged 12.7% to $1.27 million.
Carlton Fields Expands Revenue Gains as Head Count Stays Flat
As its CEO continues to prioritize gradual but steady growth, the Tampa-based company is announcing its fourth consecutive year of revenue increase.
Orrick Breaks $1.5B in Revenue in Strong 2024
In 2024, the company reported a 16.7% increase in profits per equity partner.
Holland & Hart Boosted Net Income by 24% in 2024 Amid Focus on Lateral Hiring, Premium Clients
The Mountain West law practice continues to reap the benefits of a long-term strategy that emphasizes high-end client business and involves hiring upmarket partners.
Simpson Thacher Crosses $7.5M in PEP, Revenue Jumps 24% as Firm Eyes Westward Expansion
The firm, which will build an office in San Francisco early next year, will benefit from the success, according to firm chair Alden Millard.
Kilpatrick Grows Revenue, Profits Despite ‘Year of Investment’ That Boosted Expenses
The multinational company’s revenue rose by 5% as a result of spending on technology and integrating new partners.
Mayer Brown’s Revenue Grows to $1.98B, PEP Rises 14%
The company saw a 6.6% decrease in headcount overall and a roughly 10% decline in equity partners after spinning out its operations in Mexico City and Hong Kong last year.
Gibson Dunn Achieves $7.2M in PEP, 15.7% Revenue Rise Amid Continued Focus on Building Key Practices
Gross revenue is up 65% since the beginning of chair and managing partner Barbara Becker’s tenure.
Fox Rothschild Sees Over 20% Growth in Bottom Line
The gross revenue increased by 11.3% over 2023 to $773 million. In contrast, earnings per equity partner increased by more than 20% to $1.1 million.
Cuatrecasas Sees 12.2% Revenue Growth, Surpassing €436 Million
Over the last three years, the Spanish legal firm’s revenue has increased by €120 million.
In 2024, the company’s earnings per equity partner increased by almost sixteen percent. Bill Malley, the managing partner, expressed his optimism over the performance of the upcoming year.
Promotions & Appointments:
Seyfarth Appoints Longtime Staff to New C-Suite Innovator Roles
Zeynep Ersin has been named the company’s chief innovation and strategic design officer, while Byong Kim has been named chief data and AI officer.
People in the News—March 31, 2025—Barley Snyder, Duffy
Barley Snyder declared the appointment of lawyer Emily C. Watkins to the board of directors of the Lancaster County Community Foundation.
Greenberg Traurig Miami Elevates Four Attorneys
The new Miami stockholders are Jennifer Junger, Sami B. Ghneim, Joshua B. Forman, and Carlos L. Diaz.
Norton Rose Extends Chair’s Tenure in Snub to South Africa
Although there is a South African candidate in line to succeed him, Walied Soliman, the current global chair, will remain in his position.
Pinsent Masons Elevates 24 to Partner, 54% Women
This year’s total is two greater than last year’s, and the business has promoted a comparable number of partners during the previous few years.
Linklaters promotes three UAE lawyers to partner
One partner specializes in corporate law, while the other two focus on energy and infrastructure.
Wilson Nesbitt appoints Neil Cahill to lead dispute resolution team
Neil Cahill has been named a partner and head of conflict resolution at Wilson Nesbitt, a firm based in Northern Ireland. Mr. Cahill formerly served as the director of the litigation and dispute resolution team of Fieldfisher in Dublin. Before that, he was a partner at Tughans and the head of disputes for UK and EMEA at ALT at Herbert Smith Freehills in Belfast.
Neil Matheson promoted to partner at TC Young
Neil Matheson has been promoted to partner at TC Young. After beginning as a trainee at the business in 2015, Mr. Matheson has extensive experience in civil litigation cases at the Sheriff Court and Court of Session levels.
Diversity & Inclusion:
White & Case Launches ‘New Initiative’ to Replace DEI Function
White & Case acknowledged that it had “discontinued” its DEI activities and replaced them with “a new initiative focused on professional skills training and engagement for all our non-partner lawyers and business services professionals.”
Engine Maker That’s Championed Diversity for Decades Sits Out DEI Retreat
In its newly filed proxy statement, the corporation makes numerous allusions to diversity and inclusion, referring to DEI as “the heart of our culture and cornerstone of our ongoing success.”
Freshfields Removes DEI Content, Retires US Diversity Targets
One of 20 companies cited in a Trump-directed letter that voiced “concern” over practices that “may entail unlawful disparate treatment” based on “sex, race, or other protected characteristics” was the company, which has recently made large investments in its U.S. business.
Kirkland & Ellis Hides Diversity Data Required in the UK
The company has made changes to its website that make required diversity statistics difficult to see.
How Flimsy Regulation Helped Big Law Drop DEI
Emphasis is being placed on the strength of DEI policies and their implementation.
Section 1981: The Swiss Army Knife for Anti-DEI Litigation
Along with concerning enforcement threats from cabinet-level leaders, the President has recently issued several executive orders, guidelines, and other cautions pertaining to DEI, the Department of Justice, and the EEOC. The issue is that, unless they appropriately reflect current statutes, case law, and/or court rulings, these are not legally binding, and law firms are advising businesses as such.
European businesses with contracts in the United States that choose to follow the new workplace discrimination regulations of the Trump administration run the danger of facing legal and reputational issues both domestically and within the European Union. However, businesses without U.S. contracts may also encounter issues.
IBA reaffirms support for rule of law and diversity amid Trump attacks on legal profession
The International Bar Association (IBA) has joined the American Bar Association in expressing concern over what it perceives as an ongoing erosion of the rule of law in the US.
First leadership appointments to NI Law Society women’s network
Naomi White and Claire McAleer have been named to senior positions in the recently formed women’s network of the Law Society of Northern Ireland. After an eight-year hiatus, Ms. McAleer, who will chair the network, resumed her legal practice in 2022. She has experience helping women, having worked with the NI Rural Women’s Network and in community service.
Office Openings & Closing:
Brent Walker Leaves Dallas’ Aldous\Walker, Still Led by Charla Aldous, to Form New Firm
Walker founded Brent Walker Law, where he would concentrate on catastrophic personal injury claims. Aldous Walker is now Aldous Law Firm.
Holland & Knight Opens Seattle Office Led by Ex-Davis Wright Tremaine Managing Partner
16 attorneys from the local company Karr Tuttle Campbell, which closed a few days prior to the announcement, will work in the new office.
Ogletree Deakins Seeking More Collaboration, Upgrade Design in New Midtown Atlanta Office
The labour and employment-focused store will be located in the 55-story Bank of America Plaza with other Am Law 100 firms.
Chamberlain Hrdlicka Moving in 2026 to ‘Space That Supports’ Firm’s Current, Future Needs
The firm has moved its Atlanta outposts to newly renovated Midtown office towers, joining other Am Law 200 firms in doing so.
Brown Rudnick to Open LA Office with Four-Partner Hire
Daniel Rozansky, co-chair of Stubbs Alderton & Markiles’ commercial litigation practice, is one of the new partners.
Additionally, the company confirmed 2025 debuts in Bangkok, Seattle, and Kuala Lumpur.
Simmons to Relocate London Headquarters
There will be 22,000 extra square feet of space at the new location.
McDermott, Pinsent Partners Launch German Boutique with Unusual Hybrid Structure
With a team of 20 attorneys drawn from Pinsent, EY Law, and boutique firm Orka, the Düsseldorf firm is experimenting with a novel hybrid-corporate structure that hasn’t been available before 2022.
McDermott Will & Emery Relinquishes Asia Presence, Closes Singapore After 4 Years
Recently, the company’s sole Singaporean partner, who was also stationed at its London office, departed.
Mergers & Alliances:
Gunster Merges with South Florida Boutique, Adding Additional Miami Office and 14 Lawyers
South Florida-based Katz Barron and Florida-based Gunster are combining. In order to have a presence in both Brickell and Coral Gables moving forward, it plans to retain the firm’s current Miami location.
Law Firms Maintain Strong Interest in Mergers, but Economic Pressure Could Have ‘Disquieting Effect’
According to the author of a recent analysis, any economic downturn could have a “disquieting effect,” even though businesses are keen to identify suitable combinations.
Kramer Levin-HSF Merger Approved in Partner Vote
The merger will commence on June 1st, a month later than originally planned.
Phelps Dunbar Adds to Gulf Coast Presence, Practice Areas in Merger with Pensacola’s Beggs & Lane
The merger strengthens the firm’s litigation, energy, IP capabilities in a “fertile area,” according to managing partner Marshall Redmon.
Technology & Innovation:
Amend Practice Book to Require Cybersecurity CLE
Cybersecurity, privacy, and data protection should all be included in at least one credit hour of continuing education.
Criminal Defense Discovery Platform TrialKit Debuts, Announces $4.25M in Funding
With support from startup finance firm UpWest and others, the company wants to create an AI-powered discovery platform for defense lawyers.
Hugging the Boogeyman: AI Is Not a Trap, It’s a Safety Net
AI will decrease, not increase, the risk of malpractice in 2025 with appropriate lawyer training and practical implementation. The foundation of responsible adoption is a notion that is already ingrained in legal ethics and practice: the importance of use should determine how diligently information sources are verified and secured.
Supio Launches Updated Document Intelligence Platform with New AI Tools for Personal Injury Lawyers
AI-powered features in Supio’s record Intelligence platform, which will be widely accessible later this spring, are designed to help plaintiff law firms with a variety of tasks, including demand letter writing and medical record analysis.
In-House Teams Struggling to Take Legal AI Beyond the Trial Stage
Many companies’ legal departments may find it difficult to implement AI widely and show a significant return on investment, according to a recent Factor analysis.
Market Commentary:
Latham & Watkins Attorney Pulls a ‘Hat Trick,’ Winning Three Cases in One Day
Jeff Hammel, who co-leads the New York Litigation & Trial Department at Latham & Watkins, stated that it is extremely unlikely that all of the decisions will be released on the same day.
Amicus Brief Supporting Perkins Coie Gets 170 Signatures so Far, but Few Am Law 100 Firms
As of last Sunday, only a few Am Law 100 firms had signed onto the amicus brief, sources say
Mark Wasserman, who facilitated the 2017 merger of American and British companies, is replaced by Lino Mendiola.
Willkie Believes It’s the Next Target of Trump Executive Order
One of the individuals claimed that the New York legal firm had “started to make preparations” and execute the required actions, but he would not provide further details.
Willkie Reaches Deal with Trump to Avoid Executive Order
According to reports, Willkie, the office of former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, had “started to make preparations” and perform the required actions in anticipation of a possible executive order from the White House.
Companies Veer Away from External GC Hires After Trend Loses Shine
According to a Russell Reynolds Associates analysis, “Facture 500 companies are investing more in the rising stars they already employ, as the external talent market is somewhat exhausted.”
New Distributed Firm Lucendo Offers Traditional Pathway to Equity Alongside Work Flexibility
CEO T.J. Henry was previously Rimon’s chief legal and growth officer, but he has a complaint regarding the way the initial wave of virtual enterprises were set up.
‘You’ve Got to Do Stuff Immediately’: Newly Hired GCs Feel Urgency to Fix Things Fast
Fortune 500 legal chiefs were asked by Russell Reynolds Associates to rate the degree of change they made during their first 12 to 18 months on a scale of 1 to 10. Seven was the most frequently given response.
Law Firms’ Thai and Myanmar Offices Return To ‘Business as Usual’ Following 7.7 Mw Earthquake
Such earthquakes and tectonic deformations have been known to result in dozens of fatalities and expose a sizable population to widespread risks such as landslides.
Singapore’s Sustainability Legal Service Market to Triple in Value by 2033, PwC Report Projects
PwC claimed that because of possible skills gaps in technical expertise connected to sustainability, Singapore’s legal market is ill-equipped to manage the anticipated expansion in the sustainability sphere.
African Firms Have Struggled in London, but a Nigerian Partner May Have Cracked the Code
Though most have failed, the city has been a popular location for African businesses looking to grow outside of the continent. What is Olaniwun Ajayi’s secret then?
Moves:
UK & Ireland
A prominent EY UK lawyer has joined Squire, leading a move with a five-person team.
Monica Gogna will head the regulatory segment of the firm’s global financial services practice.
Sharon Somerville joins Lindsays in Dundee
Sharon Somerville, a corporate lawyer, has been promoted to senior associate at Lindsays. Today, Ms. Somerville works full-time at the company’s Dundee city center office. She offers advice on a variety of business and corporate matters.
APAC
Pillsbury expands Hong Kong team with hire from PRC’s DeHeng
Samuel Ng, a capital markets partner from DeHeng Law Offices, has joined Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman’s Hong Kong office. He brings more than 20 years of experience in the equity and debt capital markets, as well as noteworthy knowledge of major initial public offerings.
PwC Legal Vietnam bolsters corporate practice with hire from A&G
With the addition of Allen & Gledhill Vietnam M&A specialist Phan Vinh Nhan as a partner, PwC Legal Vietnam has improved its corporate legal capabilities.
Luthra rainmaker Karan Mitroo to join JSA in Delhi
In addition to recent high-profile hires, Karan Mitroo, a banking and finance partner at Luthra and Luthra Law Offices, is expected to join JSA Advocates & Solicitors with his team. This will help JSA’s expansion efforts as Luthra deals with a wave of partner departures and looks to strengthen its position in South India.
SAM adds Mensa Brands GC as corp partner in Bengaluru
With the appointment of partner Anant Dang in Bengaluru, Indian law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas has continued to strategically grow its general corporate practice. Dang comes from his positions as general counsel and a founding member of Mensa Brands, one of the unicorns with the quickest rate of growth in India.
Female-founded ArbBoutique hires independent arbitrator in Singapore
International arbitrator Chiann Bao has joined ArbBoutique, this move will strengthen the boutique firm’s coverage in Asia.
EMEA
Covington Hires Former EU Judge in Brussels
Swedish former CJEU judge Nils Wahl discusses his transition to private practice with Covington & Burling’s Brussels office in an interview with CDR, featuring insights from global antitrust co-chair Johan Ysewyn. Covington & Burling has hired Wahl as senior of counsel in its Brussels-based EU competition and litigation practices, effective April 1.
Herbert Smith Freehills Bolsters German IP Power with Patent Litigator as Cases Surge
Florian Schmidt-Bogatzky has joined Herbert Smith Freehills, a renowned worldwide law firm, as a partner in its Intellectual Property (IP) practice. He will be working in the Düsseldorf-based Disputes section of the firm. Florian is a German patent litigator with over 20 years of expertise in both domestic and international patent infringement cases before the Unified Patent Court (UPC).
Mauritius firm CMS Prism continues growth by adding new Head of Dispute Resolution
CMS Prism, a prominent business legal company in Mauritius, has strengthened its disputes practice by appointing Gaelle Angoh Li Ying Pin, a former senior state counsel, as its new Head of Dispute Resolution.
The Americas
Akin Nabs Munger Trade Secrets and Employee Mobility Co-Chair in Los Angeles
Smolowe joins Akin as a litigation partner after spending 16 years at Munger.
O’Melveny Adds Willkie Tech Transactions Partner in Silicon Valley and Newport Beach
O’Melveny Adds Willkie Tech Transactions Partner in Silicon Valley and Newport Beach
Foley Expands State AG Team With Cozen O’Connor Trio in DC, Denver
Foley & Lardner has hired two partners in Washington, D.C., and an of counsel in Denver for its state attorneys general practice, as the firm continues to focus on expanding key practice areas.
Baker McKenzie International Arbitration Partner Jumps to Reed Smith in Dallas
Eugenie Rogers has joined Reed Smith as a partner in the global commercial disputes group and international arbitration team. She specializes in handling cross-border disputes, particularly those involving large construction projects in Europe and the Middle East.
Holland & Knight has added a former high-ranking EPA lawyer as a partner in its Dallas office.
James McGuire previously served as regional counsel for the Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6, which oversees six states, including Texas, and 66 federally recognized tribes.
Vinson & Elkins Expands Antitrust Trial Team with McDermott Partner in New York
Nicole Castle, who recently joined Vinson & Elkins as a partner in the New York antitrust practice, stated that she made the move because the firm has been developing a “leading” antitrust team.
In-House
Litigation Funder Burford Capital Taps Financial Services Vet for New CMO
Jessica Zall started her new role as chief marketing officer at Burford Capital, a publicly traded third-party litigation financing company, on Monday. She brings with her a wealth of experience from previous marketing positions at J.P. Morgan and Fidelity.
UNC Hires State Senate Majority Leader as GC
The next general counsel and vice chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is Paul Newton, who resigned from the North Carolina Senate earlier this week.
US investment firm TPG hires Debevoise & Plimpton partner as CLO
Bradford Berenson, who is retiring from TPG at the end of the year, has been replaced as chief legal officer by Jennifer Chu. TPG is a US alternative asset management company.
Team Moves
Macfarlanes Trio Leaves for DAC Beachcroft
For almost ten years, all three worked in Macfarlanes’ real estate division.
Luthra and Luthra has experienced notable departures, including the loss of its seven-lawyer real estate transactions team to Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas last month.
Financials:
Holland & Knight Surpasses $2 Billion in Revenue in First Year of New Leadership Team
After Stephen Sonberg stepped down as managing partner following 16 years in the role, new leaders Robert Grammig and David Whitestone took charge, guiding the firm through continued growth.
Nixon Peabody Boosts Net Income by 12% Thanks to 3-Pronged Strategy
Industry groups, talent management, and client feedback have contributed to Nixon Peabody’s growth, helping the firm increase its gross revenue for the fourth consecutive year.
Baker & Hostetler Reaches Financial ‘Milestone,’ Exceeding $1B in 2024
Chair Paul Schmidt stated that the historic $1.05 billion in gross revenues last year marked the end of 31 consecutive years of growth. He noted that this success reflects a firm that has not only expanded domestically but has also placed a strong emphasis on lateral hiring.
Transactional Work Rebounds in 2024 to Help Grow Revenue, Profits for Moore & Van Allen
Gross revenue rose by 10% to $298.7 million, while profits per equity partner grew by 14% to $1.35 million.
Growth in California has contributed to a 16% revenue increase for Fisher & Phillips.
Managing partner John Polson also attributed the firm’s strong performance to the growth of its workplace safety practice.
“When we closed the books at the end of 2023, our numbers were up so dramatically that people outside of the firm questioned whether we could have a repeat year. I’m proud to report we’re up again rather significantly,” said co-managing partner Michael Carlinsky.
Cooley maintains its upward momentum as revenue reaches $2.15 billion.
However, the firm’s London revenue has edged downwards.
King & Spalding Credits Investment in Talent, Litigation Work for 11% Revenue Jump
The firm had trial successes in several high-profile product liability matters, and demand for energy work around the globe was brisk.
With Strong Demand in Litigation, Corporate, Revenue Up 6.3% at Clark Hill
In 2024, Detroit-based Clark Hill made investments in Atlanta, its first office in the Southeast, and additional offices in Boulder, Colorado.
Bradley Arant Sees ‘Seeds Planted’ Since 2019 Lead to 19% Revenue Growth
Jonathan Skeeters, managing partner, attributed 2024’s impressive performance to new office openings in Atlanta and Texas.
Florida-Rooted Am Law 100 Firms All Report Revenue Gains and Higher Partner Compensation in 2024
Greenberg Traurig, Holland & Knight and Akerman boosted higher gross revenue and profits per equity partner, even as two of them also expanded their equity ranks.
Promotions & Appointments:
Macfarlanes Announces Latest Partner Promotion Round
Two-thirds of newly promoted partners are female
Slaughter and May Announces Latest Partner Promotion Round
Six new partners will be appointed across various practice areas.
Linklaters Elevates 34 to Partner
Compared to the previous year, the company has raised the number of promotions by 25%.
Brian Kennedy SC appointed as CCPC’s first chief adjudication officer
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has named Brian Kennedy SC as its first chief adjudication officer. For more than 27 years, Mr. Kennedy has been a practicing barrister in Ireland.
CMS announces Scottish partner promotions
Three new partners have been appointed by CMS in Scotland. The trio consists of Robbie Somerville, a lawyer from CMS’s corporate team based in Glasgow, and Rory Thomson, a colleague from the firm’s insurance and reinsurance department based in Edinburgh.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Female Sports Litigators Discuss Strategy to Land ‘Dream Job’ in Competitive Field
Landing a dream job in the legal profession doesn’t happen instantly, particularly in sports law, where success often requires playing the long game to stand out in the field.
What, if Anything, Should Businesses Do About DEI in the Age of Trump?
In response to President Donald J. Trump’s recent executive orders, private businesses should review their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and practices. They should then develop an action plan—whether that involves updating policies, reaffirming their commitment to DEI (with or without amendments), or adopting a wait-and-see approach.
How Diversity Turned into a Controversial Topic in Law Firms, Even in the UK
Sources and early indications suggest that law firm diversity staff may be subtly shifting away from focusing on DEI initiatives.
Women’s History Month: Shared Experiences Help Smooth Intersection of Professional, Personal Demands
The importance of finding a good mentor—someone who will help lead you through the stages of your legal career and the hurdles along the way—is well known to any associate in a law firm.
‘People Are Terrified’: How Diversity Became a Dirty Word in Law Firms
Early research and sources suggest that diversity staff at law firms may be subtly moving away from DEI.
According to the Global Lawyer, Trump’s executive orders have stunned some of the biggest legal firms in the world and may have also exposed an unsettling reality: DEI is disposable.
Office Openings & Closing:
Litigation boutique Tressler opens new offices in San Francisco and San Diego.
Tressler, a midsize law firm founded in Chicago that specializes in representing the insurance industry, now operates 10 offices across six states.
Just last month, the firm faced a setback when infrastructure partners Jessamy Gallagher and Stuart Rowson left for Freshfields.
BCLP is withdrawing from Asia and plans to close its Hong Kong and Singapore offices.
The firm stated that its current focus is on investing in its transatlantic platform and selectively operating in the U.S., U.K., Europe, and the Middle East.
Excello Law marks US debut with Santa Barbara launch
Excello Law, a platform law company, opened an office in Santa Barbara to commemorate its US debut. J Paul Gignac, a litigator from Rimon, has joined the UK-based business to head the new office, which it hopes will serve as a launching pad for additional US expansion.
Mergers & Alliances:
Dentons expands its presence in India through a partnership with a local IP boutique.
Following its integration with IP boutique Aumirah, Dentons will now have seven offices across India.
Dentons has partnered with startup law firm Pulse in Canada’s tech hub.
The alliance with Pulse Law provides Dentons with a physical presence in Ontario’s tech hub.
Womble Bond Forges Strategic Alliance with Brazilian Firmv
The partnership with Schmidt, Valois, Miranda, Ferreira, and Agel deepens the coverage of natural resources and energy.
Atlas, a division of the Svalner Atlas Group, is happy to announce that it has merged with STP Tax, a prominent tax compliance and consultancy company in the Netherlands. By combining the resources of both companies, this calculated move marks a critical turning point and reaffirms the company’s dedication to offering first-rate consulting services with a strong local and global presence.
Technology & Innovation:
Reveal Announces New Gen AI-Powered E-Discovery Platform
On Monday, e-discovery solutions provider Reveal announced that its AI-powered e-discovery platform will be released this summer and available for preview at Legalweek 2025 in New York. The new platform is designed to cater to users of all experience levels, offering increased transparency during the document review process. The platform’s name has yet to be revealed.
Goodwin, Clifford Chance and Other Firms Expand Their AI Offerings
Goodwin Procter, Harbottle & Lewis, and Clifford Chance have all enhanced their artificial intelligence capabilities by launching new firm-wide technology tools. Both Goodwin and Harbottle & Lewis revealed they are implementing the AI platform Legora across their legal operations.
The Rise of AI Litigation: How Emerging Tech Companies Can Safeguard Their IP and Liability Exposure
As artificial intelligence advances rapidly, it has also become a hotspot for litigation, especially around issues like intellectual property theft, data scraping, and model transparency. Traditional legal frameworks that govern software, data usage, and trade secrets are proving insufficient to address the complexities brought about by generative models and autonomous decision-making systems.
Traditional Lawyering in the New Age of AI
Predictions that AI will replace legal jobs are often rooted in a misunderstanding of how AI functions. In contrast, the mechanics of large language models, like those powering ChatGPT, suggest that generative AI (as it currently stands) may never be entirely free from hallucinations. Legal writing, however, requires the citation or distinction of real precedents, not fictional ones.
Building a data-driven communications philosophy for your law firm
Data-informed planning and regular measurement is essential if law firm marketers want their campaigns to succeed, said Vincent & Elkins’ chief communications officer Allan Schoenberg
Market Commentary:
“Many law firms are likely discovering a newfound interest in this area of advisory work,” says Michael Schramm, partner at Hengeler Mueller.
As GC Role Becomes More Daunting, Up-and-Comers Flock to Coaching
“If you want to be an effective leader, it starts with self-awareness,” said former PepsiCo General Counsel David Yawman. “Do I understand what I stand for? What I’m great at? What triggers me into bad behavior?”
‘This Is an Embarrassment:’ In-House Lawyers Dismayed by Paul Weiss’ Trump Deal
“I don’t have a large budget for outside counsel, but I definitely won’t be spending it with law firms who don’t stand up for themselves in the face of injustice,” stated Ray Everett, general counsel for health care at TopCon Corp.
Templars Among Nigerian Firms Adopting UK/US Equity Partner Models to Retain Talent
In the midst of the “japa” syndrome, which is the widespread exodus of young people looking for work overseas, Nigerian law firms are using equity partnership models from the United States and the United Kingdom in order to retain top talent and develop long-term leadership.
How Are Law Firms Looking to Strike a Deal with Trump Getting a Foot in the Door?
There was a strong market for energy work worldwide, and the company achieved trial triumphs in a number of well-known product liability cases.
Skadden Offers $100M In Pro Bono Work to Avoid Trump Order
US firm Skadden has struck a pre-emptive deal with President Donald Trump to provide at least $100m in pro bono services to avoid facing an executive action like other law firms.
Financials:
AMD’s Ava Hahn Downloads $16.9M in First Year as Chipmaker’s GC
The former head of law at Lam Research was given a $2 million sign-on bonus and $13.3 million in AMD stock awards.
Growing Crypto, Media Practices Boosted Manatt’s Revenue, Profits Over 12%
The firm also saw increase in profits per equity partner, up 12.8% in 2024.
Finding Increased Transactional Momentum and IP Demand, Duane Morris Grows Revenue by $45 Million
Although the company’s total revenue climbed by 7%, its profitability only increased by 2.3%. Matthew Taylor, the CEO and chair of the company, attributed this to higher investments in personnel and technology.
O’Melveny Surpasses $3M PEP, $1B in Gross Revenue
According to chair Bradley Butwin, a diverse firmwide performance was completed by marquee litigation clients and a high deal volume.
Despite Constrained Transactional Market, Fried Frank Sets Revenue Record, Crosses $5M in PEP
Despite challenges, Chair Ken Rosh said the firm’s core practices paved the path for a “fantastic” year.
One-Time Stock Grant Drives Up Pay for BorgWarner Legal Chief by 83%
Tonit Calaway received a $4.5 million grant from the auto parts manufacturer last year as part of an executive retention initiative.
‘Very Balanced’ Practice Performance Leads to Double-Digit Increases for Nelson Mullins
According to managing partner Jim Lehman, PEP increased by over 33% and net income by 29% as the company kept strict control over spending.
With ‘Repeatable’ Performance, Dorsey & Whitney Saw ‘Solid and Consistent’ Growth in 2024
PEP increased by more than 15% to surpass $1 million for the first time, while gross income increased by about 10%.
Kirkland & Ellis Revenue Hits $8.8B, as PEP Jumps to $9.2M
According to Kirkland chair Jon Ballis, the company is still committed to gaining market share while maintaining client satisfaction and expanding the company in the appropriate sectors, such as foreign markets.
White & Case, Hogan Lovells, Garrigues Thrive in Europe Despite Sluggish Economy
Businesses are setting themselves for success by adjusting to obstacles in the face of economic uncertainty.
Diversity & Inclusion:
20 Law Firms Face DEI Probe by EEOC
The EEOC statement on Monday included the names of several of the top Am Law 100 businesses.
Latham, Hogan Lovells Remove DEI Content from Sites
Earlier this week, the EEOC contacted 20 law firms, including the two, to request information on their employment practices relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
MoFo Accused of Dropping Transgender Client Because of Trump DEI Attacks
The nonprofit organization The Good Law Project claims that Donald Trump’s recent targeting of law firms over diversity, equity, and inclusion is the reason Morrison & Foerster changed its mind after first agreeing to serve the unnamed client.
BCLP to Review Position on Diversity, Inclusion
One person with knowledge of the company claims that during a town hall meeting, BCLP lawyers were informed about revisions to the firm’s diversity and inclusion website.
Law firms must stay focused on diversity – IBA panel
Andrea de la Piedra, the keynote speaker, claims that even with more diversity policies, change isn’t occurring quickly enough.
Office Openings & Closing:
McDermott Opens San Diego Office, Appoints New IP Practice Group Leads
Three intellectual property partners are among the five employees of McDermott Will & Emery that will launch an office in San Diego.
Thompson Hine Opens Minneapolis Office with Robins Kaplan IP, Tech Litigation Team
The Cleveland-based Am Law 200 firm Thompson Hine opened an office in Minneapolis a few months after opening one in Los Angeles.
Goodwin Alums Launch Firm Focused on Plaintiffs-Side Appellate Work
Founded in 2012 by public interest lawyer Deepak Gupta, the boutique aims to build on the success of Gupta Wessler, a firm that has won cases in the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of workers and consumers.
Akin To Launch Riyadh Office with White & Case Project Finance Partner
Akin plans to open a Riyadh office in late 2025, the 25th firm to open in the competitive Saudi legal market.
Hogan Lovells to Welcome in the Public by Opening a Bakery
In order to support a social company that assists victims of domestic abuse, Café Nova will sell coffee and pastries.
Dentons Adds Turks and Caicos Islands Firm to Network
Dentons stated that it is now the first and only international legal firm in Turks and Caicos following its merger with local business Griffiths & Partners.
Travers Smith to open in Brussels
Leading independent law firm Travers Smith LLP says it will expand its international competition practice by opening a new office in Brussels, the center of the European Union.
Simpson Thacher Takes on More Space at London HQ, McDermott Mulls Move
As both U.S. organizations continue to tap into the U.K. legal industry, they have seen tremendous gains in headcount in recent years.
Simmons & Simmons Secures Saudi License as Riyadh Office Opening Nears
Amid continued scrutiny over human rights issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, more than 20 foreign law firms have obtained licenses to operate in Saudi Arabia as part of the nation’s Vision 2030 growth.
Mergers & Alliances:
Cleary Gottlieb Acquires Gen AI Solution Developer Springbok AI
After the acquisition, the company intends to establish an AI acceleration team and create its own customized AI products.
Harbor Acquires Marketing Technology Services Company CLIENTSFirst
Harbor hopes to swiftly scale and satisfy the need for data-quality services from law firms with its fourth acquisition since its founding.
Dentons In Talks to Tie Up with Local Outfit in Thailand
Dentons presently operates in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam; the Thai office would be its eighth location in the ASEAN area.
HSF Launches Venture with Indian Business School for Corporate, Commercial Law Research
The partnership, which focuses on corporate and commercial legislation, hopes to produce results that will “contribute towards India’s legal system and policymaking” and “inspire jurisprudence to create a business-friendly environment.”
Taylor Wessing Expands European Reach with Strategic Alliance in Italy
The alliance comes two years after Taylor Wessing formed a strategic collaboration with Spain’s ECIJA.
NRF Enters into Joint Operation with Shanghai Firm After 5 Years as ‘Best Friends’
Shanghai Pacific had four attorneys in its firm when the two firms initially became best friends in 2020; today, it has 22.
Moves:
APAC
Jones Day Hires Second Corporate Partner For Hong Kong in 2 Months
After hiring M&A specialist Frank Voon as a partner from K&L Gates, where he worked for more than 11 years, the U.S. law firm Jones Day has added its second partner in roughly a month to its Hong Kong office.
PwC Legal Vietnam bolsters corporate practice with hire from A&G
With the addition of Allen & Gledhill Vietnam M&A specialist Phan Vinh Nhan as a partner, PwC Legal Vietnam has improved its corporate legal capabilities.
Luthra rainmaker Karan Mitroo to join JSA in Delhi
As JSA continues its rapid expansion, which has seen high-profile personalities join the company since early last year, Karan Mitroo, a banking and finance partner at the Indian law firm Luthra and Luthra Law Offices, is joining JSA Advocates & Solicitors together with his team of 15 attorneys, including three partners.
SAM adds Mensa Brands GC as corp partner in Bengaluru
With the appointment of partner Anant Dang in Bengaluru, Indian law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas has continued to strategically grow its general corporate practice. Dang comes from his positions as general counsel and a founding member of Mensa Brands, one of the unicorns with the quickest rate of growth in India.
Dentons to expand presence in SE Asia following combination with Thailand’s Pisut
In an effort to increase its footprint in Southeast Asia, international law firm Dentons has revealed plans to merge with local firm Pisut & Partners to open a presence in Thailand.
NRF strengthens HK banking practice with DCM partner from Ashurst
Jessica Li, a debt capital markets specialist from Ashurst, has joined Norton Rose Fulbright, a global law firm, to strengthen its banking and finance operations in Hong Kong.
EMEA
O’Melveny Recruits Gibson Dunn Partner in Boomerang Hire
Earlier in his career, Stéphane Frank was a counsel at the Brussels office of O’Melveny & Myers.
White & Case Recruits Former French Prosecutor to Help Clients Face Growing White Collar Risks
Former internal chief of the French energy giant Engie, Xavier Hubert, has joined White & Case as a partner in Paris.
Bird & Bird Adds M&A, IP Partners in Sweden While Poland Loses Two Finance Partners
International law firm Bird & Bird strengthened its international Corporate team with the appointment of M&A expert Henrik Nobel as a partner in Stockholm.
Pinsent Masons appoints first employment practice head in Riyadh
Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim has been appointed by international law firm Pinsent Masons to lead the employment practice for its recently opened Riyadh office in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). After receiving training at Pinsent Masons, Sairah has combined private practice experience with in-house positions in the UK and Saudi Arabia for over ten years.
MoFo hires second competition specialist from Cooley in Brussels
Alexander Israel, MoFo’s new head of EU competition, reunites with Jan Lang, who joins as a partner.
UK & Ireland
Vedder Price Taps A&O Shearman Counsel for UK Litigation Practice Launch
US law firm Vedder Price announced that it has hired Helen Biggin as the first and lead partner in its London litigation department. After joining the UK Magic Circle firm Allen & Overy (now A&O Shearman) in 2008, Biggin has worked there for her entire 17-year career, which includes nearly five years as a counsel and seven years as a senior associate.
Deloitte’s head of Trademarks joins Lewis Silkin ahead of broader Trademarks team move
Jade MacIntyre, the former Head of Trademarks at Deloitte, has joined Lewis Silkin as a partner in the company’s full-service IP360 division. Over the next few weeks, Jade will be followed by key members of Deloitte’s Trademarks team to Lewis Silkin.
Simmons Dublin hires Declan O’Sullivan as investment funds partner
Declan O’Sullivan has joined the Dublin funds practice of the international law firm Simmons & Simmons as a partner. He has advised both domestic and international clients on the creation and authorization of various investment funds, such as property funds and management firms, hedge funds, private equity funds, and UCITS.
MCM welcomes Holly McLean to employment law team
Holly McLean, a solicitor, has joined McKee Campbell Morrison Solicitors (MCM). Ms. McLean, who comes from Just Employment legal, has extensive expertise counseling firms on a range of employment legal issues, including daily HR management guidance and conflict resolution.
The Americas
Morgan Lewis Adds Former FCC, DOJ Official to Telecom Practice
Loyaan Egal’s “understanding of the dynamics of the telecom market and U.S. government policy priorities” will be advantageous to the firm’s telecom investor and operator clients, according to firm chair Jami McKeon.
King & Spalding Adds Google AI Counsel, Investment Funds Pro Joins Alston & Bird
One of the first attorneys at Google tasked with AI litigation and regulatory response was Benjamin Softness.
Haynes and Boone, Vinson & Elkins Beef Up Environmental Law Teams
During a period when the head of the Environmental Protection Agency declared that the agency would reexamine certain rules, Texas-based companies hired environmental partners.
Simpson Thacher Hires Co-Head of Vinson & Elkins Aviation Finance Practice
Additionally, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett announced the appointment of an environmental partner from Kirkland & Ellis in Washington, D.C., to serve as co-head of the firm’s environmental practice.
People in the News—March 19, 2025—McNees, Faye Riva
Daniel Hicks has joined McNees Wallace & Nurick’s litigation practice in its newly enlarged Radnor office, the firm said.
Jones Day Welcomes of Counsel to Houston’s Energy Practice
Joseph Herbster, who is based in the Houston Office, has joined the Firm as an attorney in the Energy Practice. He comes from his position as Senior Corporate Counsel at Amazon.com. Mr. Herbster has been practicing law for 15 years, both in private and corporate settings, with a concentration in logistics, transportation, and energy. For the past six years, he has held a variety of in-house counsel roles at Amazon.com.
Akin Nabs Munger Trade Secrets and Employee Mobility Co-Chair in Los Angeles
Laura Smolowe, who spent 16 years at Munger, Tolles & Olson, now joins the firm as a litigation partner.
Cuatrecasas Hires Tax Partner from Leading Mexican Firm
A few months after the head of the tax department left the Elite Mexican company for Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, SC, Cuatrecasas (Mexico) bolstered its tax department by employing a partner from Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez SC.
In-House
Perfect Move or Risky Run? Former Timberland GC Bets on Luxury Skiwear Brand
In a daring career move, Timberland’s general counsel Kristine Marvin is now the first general counsel of Perfect Moment Ltd., a high-end skiwear company that went public last year after having a difficult time raising capital.
Former Cummins GC Who Became Chief Administrative Officer Will Retire in May
Nicole Lamb-Hale, the chief legal officer, may be able to take over if Sharon Barner leaves.
Fast-Growing Specialty Insurance Company Appoints New Legal Chief as General Counsel Retires
CEO Andrew Robinson said in a statement, “We are very happy to have Patty Ryan join the Skyward Specialty team.” “She is a valuable addition to our executive team due to her extensive legal knowledge and demonstrated leadership in the field. As we continue to promote innovation and excellence in the sector, we anticipate her contributions.
Bucking Trend, Notre Dame Fills GC Opening from Within
“Notre Dame will thrive in this transformational era by being true to its distinctive mission while simultaneously bringing its strengths and uniqueness to bear on the pressing questions of our times,” said Brandon Roach, the new general counsel of Notre Dame.
FTSE 100 Water Company Replenishes Legal Panel
On the £30 million roster, three new companies have been added, while two have been left off.
Team Moves
Foley & Lardner Poaches Team of 4, Including Miami Office Leader, From Carlton Fields
Following the addition of two associates to assist with litigation cases and two new partners, one of whom oversaw Carlton Fields’ Miami office, Foley & Lardner is expanding its Miami office.
Greenberg Traurig Hires Group from Polsinelli in Denver, as Local Legal Market Evolves
“Historically, Denver’s always been a really unique market, because we had those very strong local firms,” said new partner Stacy Carpenter. “Whether you can be that regional firm or that local firm has become more difficult these days, so you’ve seen a lot of change.”
Maynard Nexsen Deepens West Coast Labor & Employment Bench with Team from Constangy
Maynard Nexsen, a full-service law firm with 24 offices across the US, announced the addition of a five-lawyer team to the firm’s Los Angeles office, bringing decades of combined experience in management-side employment law. The group joins Maynard Nexsen from a nationwide boutique labour and employment firm and includes three Partners, one Of Counsel and one Associate.
Pillsbury Nabs 14-Member International Trade Team
Partners Along with eleven other trade attorneys and legal professionals, James Durling, Daniel Porter, and Matthew McCullough joined Pillsbury in Washington, D.C.
Bradley Adds 3 Lawyers from Chamberlain Hrdlicka in Houston
David B. Sheinbein is joining as a partner in the Corporate & Securities Practice Group, and partner Jarrod B. Martin and senior attorney Michael Riordan are joining the Bankruptcy & Creditors’ Rights Practice Group
Promotions & Appointments:
NJ Mass Torts Lawyer Selected to Lead Depo-Provera MDL
People in the News—March 21, 2025—Gross McGinley, Flaster Greenberg
Samuel E. Cohen has been appointed as Gross McGinley’s deputy managing partner, beginning January 1st.
Genova Burns; Capehart Scatchard; Brach Eichler; Carlton Fields
Genova Burns brought on Sandra Bograd to the firm as of counsel; Capehart Scatchard announced that Charles F. Holmgren was promoted to hiring shareholder; and more moves.
After Biswajit Chatterjee moves to Dubai to oversee that office, Siew Kam Boon has been named managing partner for Singapore.
CMS Elevates 56 to Partner, 48% Women
More women have been represented among the partners who have been promoted in more cities and countries.
Ashurst Re-Elects Global Chair for Second Term
Karen Davies has listed a number of crucial areas in which she intends to expand on the firm’s accomplishments during her second term as Global Chair. This entails making the most of Ashurst’s advantages and seizing new possibilities, keeping Ashurst’s clients at the forefront, utilizing innovation and technology to bring about significant change, and providing for Ashurst’s employees and communities through inclusive and sustainable practices.
Phoenix Law appoints Elaine Gormley as new COO
Elaine Gormley has been elevated to chief operating officer at Phoenix Law, located in Belfast. With more than 15 years of expertise in the legal field, Ms. Gormley joined the firm in January 2020 as a litigation manager, overseeing litigation teams and handling challenging matters.
BHSM appoints Keith Doyle as commercial real estate partner
Keith Doyle is now a partner in the commercial real estate division of BHSM LLP. After working for several years in the commercial real estate division of a large Dublin law firm, Mr. Doyle joined the firm in 2021 as a senior associate.
Technology & Innovation:
Mitratech Launches CounselConnector, an Outside Counsel Hiring Platform
In order to expedite the internal hiring process, CounselConnector offers outside counsel attorneys client evaluations and reviews.
Vorys Sater Launches Agentic AI Platform ‘AIV Labor’
According to the Am Law 200 firm, human resources specialists and labor and employment lawyers are the target users of their autonomous AI platform. It has the ability to explore 460 sources nationwide for legislative and regulatory labor and employment data.
Brave Software Seeks Judgment to Head Off Threatened AI Copyright Suit from News Corp
Brave has requested that a federal judge in California rule that using its AI-powered search engine to index content from News Corp. does not violate copyright. “That a company that bemusedly calls itself Brave should engage in content conduct that is so shiftily shameful is perverse in the extreme,” says the CEO of News Corp.
Deposely Launches Deposely LX, an AI Second Chair for Depositions
The company’s key features were formally introduced with Deposely LX, which is intended to give lawyers real-time assistance prior to, during, and following depositions.
Litera Launches Cloud-Based Legal Workflow Platform, Generative AI Tool
The cloud-based workflow platform Litera One and its generative AI tool, Litera AI+, are being unveiled by legal technology company Litera.
A World Where AI ‘Thinks’ Like a Lawyer
77% of professionals think AI will have a high or transformative impact on their work in the next five years, up 10% from just a year ago, according to Thomson Reuters’ 2024 Future of Professionals Report. It is evident from this quick uptake that the tools are effective.
Market Commentary:
Law Firms That Shun Innovation Will Likely Be Left Behind
The legal landscape is evolving, and speakers at the Philadelphia Bar Association’s Innovation in the Law Summit emphasized that attorneys must be at the forefront of innovation and the adoption and application of cutting-edge technologies.
Should You Promote from Within or Hire a Lateral Partner?
Midsize companies lack an institutional pipeline to hire outstanding personnel, unlike major companies with well-established summer associate programs. Therefore, lateral hiring is not only a choice but also a must at the associate and partner levels. However, fostering a positive company culture also requires a firm to make a commitment to the development of younger associates.
In-house lawyers say ‘empathy’, ‘soft skills’ critical as AI advances, study finds
According to a Simmons & Simmons survey, the majority of general counsel and other senior legal heads at some of the biggest corporations in the world believe that human qualities like empathy and soft skills would be crucial in the upcoming years as AI usage rises.
Effective Lateral Group Acquisition and Integration Can Spur Further Growth
When a company wants to increase its investment in talent, hiring a small group of people can spur substantial growth without the problems and the negative effects of a huge combination, which can be challenging to execute and even more so to integrate.
Attorneys are retaliating against the Trump administration’s meddling with the International Criminal Court and prosecutors, as well as the suspension of security clearances at leading U.S. law firms.
Not Enough Jobs for All Former Federal Lawyers Who Want Them in Atlanta
Attorneys with expertise in private practice or certain specialty are more likely to be employed.
How In-House Counsel Can Extract Value Out of Rising Legal Costs
Attend the webcast to see how automation and artificial intelligence are changing legal procedures and helping corporate legal teams cut expenses related to compliance, document review, and outside counsel.
Overwhelmed and Understaffed: Half of African GCs Report High Stress and Anxiety
According to a survey conducted throughout Africa, in-house attorneys are finding it difficult to manage their growing workload, scarce resources, and evolving regulations.
Three Salient Steps to Attract Private Equity Investors
Law companies require a corporatized perspective of financials, modern governance with strong leadership, and a clear growth strategy in order to draw in private equity investors.
Thriving in the First Year: How Lateral Hires Can Succeed in a New Law Firm
A lateral hire’s success is not assured; proactive work, flexibility, and strategic planning are necessary for successful integration into the new setting.
The Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment framework is an initiative that falls under the regulations of the 2024 Legal Sector Code which has been promoted by the government to spearhead economic and social transformation to historically disadvantaged individuals in South Africa. This development has become a hot topic with key political figures voicing strong criticisms of the framework and other DEI initiatives. From my perspective the implementations of these new policies within the legal sector code will have a profound impact on how recruitment is conducted within the South African Legal market.
Firstly, there will need to be an added level of consideration relating to the new policies, from partners within firms to hiring managers and recruiters who will be sourcing candidates, in an effort to ensure these processes are conducted in adherence to the new regulations. Like most diversity and inclusion initiatives the results will depend not on the enforcement of policy but on the effort and mindset of parties responsible for enacting this change. Firms will have to check their existing biases and potentially face some uncomfortable truths within their practices in order to take the necessary first steps to onboarding top tier Black talent. Additionally, we are likely to see a shift in the rationale behind the answer to the question “What makes a good candidate”? For so long the answer has been clear cut, but as new policies come into force, firms will need to have serious conversations regarding how they would like to answer this question.
Search firms will have to ensure that they are up to date with the recent developments in legislation and current attitudes regarding their implementation. Firms need to keep these considerations in mind when employing recruitment companies to do their work, and search firms with experience and proven track records of placing candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, including Black South African’s, will be key to helping these policies translate into the creation of a stronger, fairer legal workforce in South Africa. This will apply not just in terms of sourcing these candidates but also in providing expertise and market insight on how to induct black professionals into these existing institutions.
Furthermore, with the Legal Sector Code placing an emphasis on the development of skills for black professionals we are likely to see firms taking a greater in the development of incoming candidates. We are also likely to see firms investing in the retention and development of their existing talent and further investment in their talent retention strategy as a whole. Well-resourced firms are already placing an emphasis on talent pipelines at all levels of seniority in order to create genuine long-term change. We feel this could be a catalyst for increased competition within the talent market specifically pertaining to individuals with a desirable skillset including established Black partners who are likely to be in greater demand. Also, one of the potential outcomes of this legislation is that we may see an improvement in the financial packages offered to desirable talent which will increase emphasis on development and career progression within firms.
Moreover, with the new legislation encouraging the promotion of Business Development, firms are encouraged to provide financial support and coaching to Black-owned legal practices. This could potentially lead to an increase in mergers and strategic alliances and more Black owned law firms in South Africa who will in turn require the use of search firms to help with their strategic hiring and long-term growth.
In conclusion, the introduction of the legal sector codes in South Africa will bring about a significant shift in established recruitment practices. Firms will be required to adapt their previous hiring strategies to fall within the scope of this legislation and recruitment firms will be tasked with the pivotal role of helping both established and emerging firms navigate these developments by sourcing diverse talent and providing expertise which calls for a thorough knowledge of the existing legislation and effort to act in adherence with them.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Gibson Dunn Hires A&O Shearman’s Global Head of Real Estate Finance
The latest lateral hire comes as U.S. firms expand their presence in London, with Proskauer making a new addition last week. The firm said Tuesday that Mark Manson-Bahr will become a partner in its real estate practice area and join the London office.
Simmons Dublin hires Declan O’Sullivan as investment funds partner
Joining the business from the Dublin office of Dechert, Mr. O’Sullivan offers thirty years of expertise. He has advised both domestic and international clients on the creation and authorisation of various investment funds, such as property funds and management firms, hedge funds, private equity funds, and UCITS.
DLA Piper recruits financial services regulatory lawyer Chris Jessup
Chris Jessup, a specialist in financial services regulation, has joined DLA Piper as a partner in the firm’s litigation and regulatory department. He will join DLA Piper in May 2025. Mr. Jessup is currently partner and co-head of the fintech business at A&L Goodbody, which is headquartered in Belfast.
Clyde & Co enlists RPC partner for new global regulatory and investigation role
Sam Tate was previously RPC white collar crime head. He joins the London Clyde & Co office with two associates and a counsel.
APAC
Ashurst Expands PNG Practice with a Local Telco Partner
Ashurst is expanding its practice in Papua New Guinea with the addition of a litigator from Digicel, a local telecommunications company. Michael Henao joins the firm as a partner to lead the disputes and regulatory practice at Ashurst’s Port Moresby office.
Jones Day adds Corporate partner Frank Voon in Hong Kong
Voon is the second corporate partner Jones Day has added to its Hong Kong corporate practice in 2 months. Mr. Voon, who is leaving K&L Gates, has over 20 years of expertise providing advice on intricate, international M&A and private equity deals in a variety of sectors, such as technology, real estate, mining and energy, healthcare and life sciences, and automotive.
Norton Rose Takes Hong Kong Debt Partner from Ashurst, Hunton Andrews Kurth Adds to Tokyo Bench.
After working at Ashurst for more than three years, Jessica Li joins the Norton Rose. From 2009 to 2021, she worked at Clifford Chance and Legacy Allen & Overy after starting her career at White & Case.
Meanwhile, as the firm begins its investment funds activity in Hong Kong, Beijing-based Commerce & Finance Law Offices has appointed Frank FU as a partner to its Hong Kong base. Frank Fu previously spent four years as senior associate at A&O Shearman.
EMEA
Honigman adds Big Law quartet in Israel, launches investment funds practice
Am Law 200 firm Honigman has launched an investment funds practice in Israel after hiring a quartet of lawyers from Big Law firms for its Israeli subsidiary, HLI. Joshua Gottesman has joined HLI as a partner having been an associate at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett and will found the investment funds practice alongside existing partner Sam Katz. Funds associate Mayer Stein has joined him for the move from Simpson Thacher.
Associate Oron Eli, who focuses on private equity investments and M&A, has joined from Paul Weiss and insurance disputes specialist Amit Roitman has moved over from Pillsbury Winthrop. All four joiners will relocate to Israel from the US.
The Americas
Clifford Chance Welcomes 3 Lateral Hires in New York Within a Week as Part of Ongoing US Expansion
The company said last week that Gianluca Bacchiochi, an energy and infrastructure financing partner, will be returning. Joanna Nicholas, a partner in structured finance at Mayer Brown, joins the company and will be part of the global financial markets division. Last but not least, Clifford Chance said on Tuesday that it was hiring Bryan Luchs, a corporate veteran and partner at White & Case.
Commerce Department Attorney Rejoins Akin as DC Partner
Sean Conway, who recently left his role as deputy chief counsel for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at the Department of Commerce, previously worked at the Federal Communications Commission.
On the Move: Ex-Georgia U.S. Attorney Rejoins Ballard Spahr
Jill Steinberg has returned to Ballard Spahr after serving two years as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
Debevoise M&A Head Moves to Davis Polk
Michael Diz held multiple leadership positions at Debevoise, including playing a key role in expanding the firm’s presence in Northern California in recent years. Michael is based in Redwood City, California.
M&A Expert Eric Schiele Moves from Kirkland to Paul Hastings, Takes on Role of M&A Co-Chair
Large-cap public M&A is a challenging market to enter, but Paul Hastings believes its growth, combined with Schiele’s arrival, will help the firm break the “oligopoly” at the top. Schiele will join Paul Hasting’s NYC office.
Cuatrecasas hire sees another tax partner leave Creel García-Cuéllar
A few months after the head of the tax department departed the Elite Mexican company for Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, SC, Cuatrecasas (Mexico) bolstered its tax department by adding a Luis Vázquez from Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez SC. Luis, based in Mexico City, frequently advises and represents global corporations in audits and tax refund petitions before the Mexican tax authorities.
Perkins Coie boosts IP litigation practice with Finnegan duo hire
Perkins’ Silicon Valley offering in cutting-edge technologies like AI and medtech will be strengthened by the recruits. Arpita Bhattacharyya, a patent lawyer, co-led Finnegan’s AI working group during her more than 17 years there. During his 25 years at Finnegan, Robert McCauley co-led the company’s trade secret litigation.
In-House
US on-campus bookstore Barnes & Noble Education hires former Six Flags GC as legal head
Following the resignation of chief legal officer Michael Miller last year, Christopher Neumann was appointed general counsel by Barnes & Noble Education (BNED), a US college bookshop operator.
Domino’s Pizza promotes assistant GC to legal head role
Ryan Mulally was elevated to general counsel at Domino’s Pizza, the biggest pizza chain in the world, taking Kevin Morris’ place.
Team Moves
Gateley hits Clyde & Co for corporate team in Dubai
As Gateley embarked on establishing a Middle East base in Dubai, corporate partners Darren Harris and Nora Al Muhamad join with three legal directors and one associate.
Five-Partner Kasowitz Team Joins Loeb & Loeb as Departures Persist
Partners Mark Ressler and Paul “Tad” O’Connor are leading the latest group of laterals to depart Kasowitz Benson Torres. Joshua E. Hollander, Melissa A. Barahona, and Andrew H. Elkin, will all join Ressler and O’Connor as partners in Loeb’s New York office.
Dykema Doubles Houston Office Headcount, Adds Seven Attorneys
Dykema, a prominent national law firm, has added seven attorneys to its Houston office, effectively doubling its lawyer headcount. This expansion enhances the firm’s expertise in critical practice areas such as energy, bankruptcy and restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, business taxation and planning, corporate and finance, labor and employment, and business immigration.
Michael Durrschmidt and Kim Lewinski join the firm from Hirsch and Westheimer P.C., while Arthur Nathan, William Hotze, Kari Lutringer, James Prappas, and Michael Twomey join Dykema from Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC.
Financials:
Latham & Watkins UK Revenue Approaches Magic Circle Levels
Latham & Watkins’ U.K. revenue rose by 25% to $850 million (£657 million) in 2024, according to a source familiar with the matter, reflecting a robust performance for the firm overall.
Reed Smith Achieves Record $1.5B in Revenue
Profits per equity partner increased by 13.8% to $1.8 million, with the London office—the firm’s largest—delivering a notably strong performance.
Jackson Lewis Sees Double-Digit Revenue Growth in 2024
Jackson Lewis, a firm primarily focused on labour and employment, generated $697.1 million in gross revenue in 2024. Firm leaders are optimistic about the future, with expectations running high for 2025. Key practice areas that performed particularly well for the firm last year included labour and employment, litigation, and immigration.
Garrigues revenue pushes past €480m in record result
In 2024, Spanish powerhouse Garrigues increased its global revenue by 6.1% to a record high of €481.9 million, which the firm claimed solidified its position as the top law firm in the EU in terms of revenue.
Kirkland & Ellis partner pay hits $9.2m
Following another successful year for the top-grossing legal firm in the world, Kirkland & Ellis equity partners received an average compensation of almost $9 million in 2024. According to Law.com, the company’s average profit per equity partner for 2024 was $9.2 million, up 16% from around $8 million the year before.
Promotions & Appointments:
National Grid Includes 7 Additional Firms in Updated £250 Million Legal Panel
National Grid Expands Legal Services Panel, Adding 5 New Firms. The U.K. energy giant has increased its legal panel from 10 to 15 firms as part of a refreshed £250 million “global legal services framework.” New additions to the panel include Norton Rose Fulbright, Burges Salmon, DWF, Osborne Clarke, TLT, Walker Morris, and KPMG, according to company disclosures.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Breaking Down Barriers For Women in Law: My Journey
Nikki Edwards, a partner at Howard Kennedy and president of the London Solicitors Litigation Association, defied the odds to establish a successful career in law.
The Numerous Challenges of DEI Law and Policy for Corporate Counsel
One of the biggest challenges businesses and their in-house counsel face today is the broad public policy push to dismantle the DEI movement, along with the litigation, PR, and political risks that companies must navigate carefully in this area.
IBA announces next phase of its gender equality project
The ambitious 50:50 by 2030 gender equality project, which aims to address the lack of gender parity at senior levels across the legal profession, has begun its second phase, according to the International Bar Association (IBA).
Office Openings & Closing:
Ropes & Gray Opens Paris Office, Recruiting 11-Lawyer Team from Clifford Chance
The managing partner of the new Ropes office is private equity and M&A attorney Fabrice Cohen, who oversees a group of 11 former Clifford Chance attorneys. Along with two solicitors and six associates, Thierry Arachtingi, a finance partner, and Emmanuel Mimin, a private equity and M&A partner, also left Clifford Chance. According to Cohen, another associate will join later.
Holland & Hart Opens Phoenix Office, Bringing On 2 Partners from Perkins Coie
U.S. firm Holland & Hart has expanded by opening an office in Phoenix, Arizona, with the addition of two environmental partners from Perkins Coie. Christopher Thomas and Andrea Driggs have joined the new office, with Driggs previously serving as chair of the mining industry group and co-chair of the oil and gas industry group at Perkins Coie.
Portuguese Firm Reclaims Family Brand in Split From Uría Menéndez
Francisco Proença de Carvalho, a Portuguese lawyer, separated from Uría Menéndez in August after 14 years in order to take his family name on a new but familiar journey. The Spanish firm Uría Menéndez, which has offices in Lisbon and Porto, currently employs 94 lawyers and 18 partners.
In the meantime, Proença de Carvalho has taken back his family name and established a separate legal practice under the same name in January. He has brought together a small group of solicitors from different Portuguese firms to work at his new firm, which is based in Lisbon.
Mergers & Alliances:
Clifford Chance launches Shanghai FTZ joint operation with local firm
He Ping’s key practice heads are Liu Tianfeng, who oversees financial regulatory compliance; Peng Xuqiu, who leads the intellectual property practice; and Ma Yun, who specialises in cross-border investment and has experience in the industrial manufacturing, healthcare and life sciences, and consumer retail sectors. The Shanghai Bar Association reports that the business currently employs 28 solicitors.
Japanese firm TMI forms alliance with Australia’s JWS, eyes Sydney office
TMI Associates has stated that it intends to establish an office in Australia by 2026 as part of the collaboration. “This office will serve as a key operational hub to further strengthen our collaboration with JWS. Additionally, we will maintain close coordination through office proximity and regular exchanges of legal professionals between both firms”. As part of the agreement, TMI partner Masayuki Nagai will be seconded to Sydney, he told ALB.
Technology & Innovation:
AI Has Yet to Revolutionize Law Firm-Client Relationships in the US and UK
A transatlantic survey commissioned by Definely reveals ongoing uncertainty regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on firm-client relationships, along with significant differences between the U.K. and U.S. legal tech markets.
Challenges in Gaining Stakeholder Support Hinder Gen AI Adoption
“Most organizations have established multifunctional committees to assess generative AI applications. However, these committees are currently overwhelmed due to the rapid emergence of new tools,” said Matt Bohn, senior counsel at Amgen.
French publishers and authors file lawsuit against Meta in AI case
The U.S. tech firm Meta (META.O) has been sued by France’s top publishing and authors’ unions for allegedly utilising copyright-protected information extensively and without permission to train its artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
Market Commentary:
Trump targets law firm Paul Weiss, restricting government access
On Friday, President Donald Trump issued an executive order suspending Mark Pomerantz’s and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison employees’ security clearances. Additionally, the order limits government access to the New York-based law firm’s attorneys and staff. Trump has now attacked a law firms three times through executive orders.
Judge Blocks Enforcement of Trump Order Targeting Perkins Coie
The judge said that the executive order violates the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects freedom of speech, and that it is a form of retaliation against Perkins Coie for representing clients the president dislikes.
Bowmans Targets Africa Dominance with A&O Shearman and Clifford Chance Hires
As it aims to become a dominant force in Africa’s energy and infrastructure legal industries, Bowmans is actively acquiring top personnel from international titans A&O Shearman, Clifford Chance, and Watson Farley & Williams. After employing more than 30 solicitors, Bowmans is ready to take over work that was previously completed by the continent’s international businesses, according to managing partner Alan Keep.
Firms in Australia Making More Partner Team Hires, Major Lindsey & Africa Data Shows
After examining last year’s lateral partner hires, recruiter Tom Stretton of Major Lindsey & Africa claims that law firms in Australia are employing more teams of partners in an effort to make sure the partners bring the work with them.
According to data compiled by the recruitment business, a team of two or more partners left together at least 22 times out of the 193 lateral partner moves that occurred in the top 50 commercial law firms in Australia in 2024.
In 2024, UK Legal Tech Investments and M&A Increase
LawtechUK’s 2025 Ecosystem Tracker Report revealed a notable rise in U.K. legal tech investments and acquisitions in 2024, driven by both public and private funding.
The Impact of Tariffs on the M&A Market
Deal activity declined in February compared to the previous year, similar to the trend in January. While some deals are still progressing, they are navigating an unpredictable and ever-changing environment.
In the Shadow of the Ruins: Why Law Firms Fail
Rarely does a law company dissolve amicably; instead, it usually implodes, torn apart by circumstances beyond its control. Lundgrens is a case in point. The firm went from being a well-known brand in Danish law to a partnership that was collapsing due to changing client needs, economic difficulties, and an inexorable tide of departures.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Freshfields Swipes Paul Hastings Infra Stars
The worldwide co-head of corporate for Paul Hastings is part of the transfer for the U.K. partner pair.
Travers Smith hires Livingbridge lawyer
The general counsel at Livingbridge has joined Travers Smith as a partner. According to the UK law firm, Jeremy Dennison is leaving the mid-market buyout shop to join Travers’ private equity and financial sponsors (PEFS) group. Dennison spent more than eight years working at Travers Smith, where he began his career.
Latham & Watkins adds private credit partner duo in London from Akin Gump
Prior to joining Latham, Fergus Wheeler and Paul Yin were partners in the debt finance division at White & Case. They both worked at Akin Gump for less than a year.
APAC
Ashurst strengthens Papua New Guinea presence with Michael Henao as lead litigation partner
Michael Henao was appointed as a partner to head the litigation and regulatory practice in the Port Moresby office of the international law firm Ashurst, further extending its commitment in Papua New Guinea.
Clifford Chance hires M&A partner from Pillsbury in Tokyo push
As Japanese outbound investment in the U.S. keeps increasing, Clifford Chance, a law firm in the Magic Circle, has expanded its corporate practice in Tokyo by hiring M&A partner Jeff Schrepfer from Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman.
CAM adds fintech GC to Mumbai-based finance practice
Sugandha Asthana, the general counsel at fintech company FPL Technologies, has joined Indian law firm Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas as a partner in its banking and finance department in Mumbai.
Bakers grows Vietnam offering with corporate hire from Freshfields
Chris Milliken, a business specialist who previously served as counsel at Freshfields, has joined the Ho Chi Minh City branch of international legal firm Baker McKenzie as a partner.
Hogan Lovells makes energy, projects hire in Vietnam from Mayer Brown
Global law firm Hogan Lovells has appointed David Harrison as partner in its infrastructure, energy, resources and projects (IERP) practice in Ho Chi Minh City from Mayer Brown, where he led the Vietnam practice for 11 years.
Singapore’s Oon & Bazul makes disputes hire from Tan Rajah & Cheah
Perry Elizabeth Wong, a senior associate at local rival Tan Rajah & Cheah (TRC), has joined Singaporean legal firm Oon & Bazul LLP as a partner in its dispute resolution department.
Rajah & Tann partner joins Incisive Law as deputy litigation head
Davis Tan was a partner at the Big Four firm Rajah & Tann before joining Singapore’s Incisive Law, a maritime and international trade specialty, as a director and deputy head of its litigation practice.
EMEA
Eversheds Sutherland Continues Hiring Spree with Sixth Lateral Hire in 7 Months
At a time when law firms are seeing an increase in energy-related work, Eversheds Sutherland has strengthened its energy practice by hiring a partner from the independent Dutch firm Houthoff. In 2011, seasoned energy lawyer Marc van Beuge joined Houthoff. He worked for Simmons & Simmons in the Netherlands for more than ten years prior to joining Houthoff.
Addleshaws taps White & Case for Riyadh corporate partner
Jad Slim will bring with him over a decade of experience advising on equity capital markets transactions in the Kingdom.
Stephenson Harwood partner Ron Nobbs relocates to Dubai
The move of partner Ron Nobbs from London has strengthened Stephenson Harwood’s Middle East building business.
Pinsent Masons reinforces Middle East financial services practice with new hire
Marie Chowdhry returns to Pinsent Masons having spent several years at Lean Technologies, where she served as General Counsel and Head of Compliance, operating across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The Americas
Weil Head of Patent Litigation, Life Sciences Joins Jones Day in 2-Partner Move
Jones Day announced that it has added Edward Reines and Derek Walter, two veteran patent litigators from Weil, Gotshal & Manges, to its intellectual property (IP) group. Reines will join the firm’s Silicon Valley office, while Walter will move to San Francisco.
Daniel Alonso Joins Vedder Price as White-Collar and Investigations Shareholder
“The opportunity to work at a firm with a growing Latin America cross-border investigations practice was a great one,” Alonso said in an interview. “Vedder presented me with a great opportunity to help them continue to build their Latin America practice, which was very attractive to me.”
Veteran Business Litigator Exits Winston & Strawn to Join Boutique LA Firm Cohen Williams
Paul Salvaty, a commercial trial lawyer who has worked for decades at some of the nation’s most prominent firms, joined the boutique Los Angeles firm Cohen Williams this week. He says he is really happy to be leaving “Big Law.”
Holland & Knight Hires Former FBI General Counsel Amid Government Exodus
Bradley Booker rose through the government ranks for years. His employment coincides with the Trump administration’s threat of widespread layoffs and the attempt by many federal employees to move into the private sector.
Former Trump Attorney Evan Corcoran Joins Brownstein
In the inquiry into classified materials discovered at Palm Beach’s Mar-a-Lago, Corcoran represented Trump. Steve Bannon, a former Trump aide, has also been represented by him.
Trans-Atlantic Boutique Pallas Snags Partner Duo from Kasowitz
Two new partners and one new associate have joined Pallas Partners, which was established in 2022 by former co-chair Natasha Harrison of Boies Schiller Flexner, at its New York City office.
People in the News—March 5, 2025—Pond Lehocky, Post & Schell
James Garver has joined the legal team at Pond Lehocky Giordano.
Connecticut Movers: New Hires in Westport and Milford
The most recent additions are announced by Coffey Modica and Hurwitz Sagarin Slossberg & Knuff.
Akin Expands Energy, Infrastructure Team in Houston with White & Case Partner
Charlie Ofner, an energy and infrastructure partner at White & Case, stated that he transferred to Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld due to the firm’s robust energy and M&A practice, as well as the quality of the new hires for the energy team in Houston.
Paul Hastings Hires Longtime O’Melveny Antitrust Partner in Los Angeles
Stephen McIntyre’s clients have included TikTok owner ByteDance, Alaska Airlines, ExxonMobil and other major corporations.
On the Move and After Hours: Goldberg Segalla; MG+M; Buckley Theroux; Norris McLaughlinv
Thomas Schoendorf joined Goldberg Segalla’s Princeton product liability, civil litigation, and trial practice areas, among other additions.
Commerce Department Lawyer Returns to Akin as DC Partner
Sean Conway, a former employee of the Federal Communications Commission, recently resigned from his post as deputy chief counsel for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at the Department of Commerce.
Clifford Chance Latin America-Focused Partner Returns to Firm After 4-Year Stint with Latham
New York-based Gianluca Bacchiocchi provides almost thirty years of energy and infrastructure finance knowledge.
O’Melveny hires LA media and entertainment partner from Sheppard Mullin
Leif Cervantes de Reinstein, a seasoned entertainment attorney from Los Angeles, was recently hired by O’Melveny & Myers from Sheppard Mullin as part of the firm’s efforts to bolster its entertainment, sports, and media division.
Pallas Partners builds in New York with twin partner hire from Kasowitz
London-based litigation boutique Pallas Partners has recruited two partners from Kasowitz Benson Torres in New York. Michael Hanin, a partner, leads the group, which also consists of an associate and another partner, Jill Forster.
In-House
Thinking Outside the Box, GC of Cardboard Packaging Giant Becomes CFO
“He has a strong accounting and finance background and is very familiar with our finance function,” stated Packaging Corporation of America CEO Mark Kowlzan of GC Kent Pflederer.
Wells Fargo Regulatory Exec Joins Citizens Financial as CLO
Michelle Moosally was hired at a time when regulators are scrutinizing financial firms’ risk-management procedures more closely after a series of bank failures in 2023.
SEC Names Crypto Task Force Chief Counsel
“He became the first pure crypto lawyer to become a partner at a Big Law firm based only on his crypto practice last year,” stated J. Christopher Giancarlo, senior counsel at Willkie Farr & Gallagher and former chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission about Mike Selig the newly appointed chief counsel.
iHeart CLO Exiting Just Months After Receiving Pay Raise, Title Upgrade
Jordan Fasbender, who became legal chief during the COVID-19 pandemic, will depart around April 1st for an as-yet-unidentified position elsewhere.
Fast-Growing DevOps Company Hires CLO With IPO Experience
In 2022, Sonar, a software development tool that speeds up the creation of better applications, raised $412 million at a valuation of $4.7 billion.
Former Six Flags GC Who Led $8B Merger Joins NJ-Based Barnes & Noble Education
Christopher Neumann is back in the education sector as a result of the appointment. He had previously served as Kaplan’s deputy general counsel.
AI automation business Nintex hires former Limeade GC as legal chief
In place of Camden Hillas, who departed the company last month, Sarah Visbeek has been appointed general counsel by Nintex, a US AI-powered automation software startup.
Team Moves
Texas Firm Kane Russell Adds Austin Office, Bankruptcy and Restructuring Team
Three Holland & Knight partners joined the midsize firm as directors, and a fourth director rejoined from Ross, Smith & Binford.
Orrick Hires Katten Restructuring Team in London
After starting the company’s restructuring service in the UK five years ago, a partner at Katten Muchin Rosenman has joined Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe with two of his team members. He told GRR that he is eager to work with his new colleagues in the US and Europe to “build something special.”
Squire Patton Boggs Loses 5 Partners to Australian Firm
As the firm seeks to broaden its products and expertise, the five Squire partners join the Sydney office, along with one associate who becomes a partner at Piper Alderman.
Financials:
2024 Comp for Broadcom’s Mark Brazeal Ranks Among Highest Ever for a Legal Chief
Brazeal received high marks from the remuneration committee for securing regulatory approvals for Broadcom’s $69 billion acquisition of VMware.
Blank Rome Bolstered Profits by Over 20% in 2024
Blank Rome had growth in all of its financial indicators during a year when many large law firms saw rising tides. Its net income climbed by 23.9%, while its gross revenue increased by 18.7% to $742.7 million.
Husch Grows Revenue 15% to $708M, as PEP Crosses $1M
Amidst broader head count expansion, the nonequity partner ranks increased by 13% while the equity tier shrank.
Immigration, Employment Litigation Boost Ogletree Deakins to Double-Digit Increases
Even with a slight expansion of its equity partnership, the labour and employment firm was able to develop PEP.
Point of Diminishing Returns: When Nonequity Partner Growth Drags Down Profits
The nonequity partner ranks are now used by law firms for a variety of reasons, and some attorneys may become trapped in one of these abysses, which would impair the performance of the business as a whole.
Hogan Lovells’ Revenue Nears $3B in Second Straight Year of Growth
Even while net income was virtually unchanged, profits per equity partner increased to over $3 million as the firm’s ranks of equity partners decreased by almost 10%.
Greenberg Traurig Posts Double-Digit Revenue Gains; Firm’s Largest Since Record 2021
The multinational company also opened new offices, increased its workforce, and controlled overhead. Profits per equity partner surpassed $2.6 million, a nearly 10% increase.
Wilmer’s Revenue Rose Almost 7%, Passing $1.6B
Wilmer’s PEP increased more than 5% to $3.27 million in 2024, driven by expansion in its civil litigation business and government-facing operations, while its equity tier remained essentially same.
Morrison & Foerster Sees Revenue Rise Amid Surging IP, Commercial Litigation Demand
In 2024, gross revenue reached $1.33 billion, and earnings per equity partner increased by a staggering 25.6% to surpass $4 million.
‘Spike’ in Demand Leads to Revenue, Income Increases for Alston & Bird
In 2024, gross revenue reached $1.33 billion, and earnings per equity partner increased by a staggering 25.6% to surpass $4 million.
Trump’s SG Pick Reveals 2024 Income, Says He Will Sell Firm, Stocks
In new public disclosures last year, Trump’s nominee to be the U.S. solicitor general disclosed his firm profits and said that he would sell off millions of shares of stock.
Taft Sees Revenues Rise Past $700M in Successful 2024
For the first time, the middle market company with its roots in the Midwest exceeded $1 million in profits per equity partner.
Ontario Law Society Chief Exits Over ‘Secret’ Pay Hike to Nearly $1M
The Ontario Law Society (LSO) has strong allies and adversaries in a dispute that is revealing profound rifts within the legal industry since Toronto is home to Canada’s BigLaw companies.
Blackstone Paid Kirkland More Than $100M in Legal Fees in 2024
Compared to Kirkland’s 2023 payment of $41.6 million from Blackstone, the fee payout was more than quadruple.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—March 4, 2025—Barley Snyder, Antheil Maslow
Hannah M. Schroer, a lawyer with Barley Snyder, has been elected president of the Central Pennsylvania chapter of the Saint Thomas More Society.
Med Tech Firm Focused on Women’s Health Promotes 18-Year Company Veteran to GC
Anne Liddy commenced her in-house career at Pfizer.
Changes Continue at Weil as Law Firm Names New Practice Leaders
Following the departure of multiple practice leaders, younger partners in their 30s and 40s have been promoted to leadership roles.
People in the News—March 6, 2025—Capehart Scatchard, Eckert Seamans
Sanmathi Dev has been appointed chairperson of Capehart Scatchard’s school law department, with immediate effect.
Hall Booth Smith Promotes Longtime C-Suite Leader to COO
Nina Tickaradze will be leading efforts to ensure that the midsize firm remains in growth mode and able to sustain its “competitive edge in the legal industry.”
Cornerstone recruits ex-Brick Court senior clerk Hawes as Langdorf heads for Gatehouse
The new senior clerk of Cornerstone Barristers is Julian Hawes, formerly the joint senior clerk at Brick Court Chambers. Elliot Langdorf, who became the practice director of Gatehouse Chambers, is succeeded by Hawes.
Maples and Calder appoints new partner, of counsel and associates
While Una Killeen and Rory Beasley, who practiced finance, and Richard O’Mahony, who practices funds and investment management, were promoted to of counsel, Richard O’Donoghue, who specializes in these areas, was advanced to partner.
Arthur Cox picks Ailish Finnerty as next chair
Ailish Finnerty, a partner at Arthur Cox, has been appointed as the firm’s future chair. On March 31, 2025, Ms. Finnerty will assume the role, replacing Orla O’Connor, who is wrapping up her six-year tenure as chair.
Diversity & Inclusion:
How did DEI suddenly become politically incorrect after being the most politically correct corporate America mission? I’ll let scholars and historians of the Trump era do that analysis. For the sake of this essay, let’s be open and honest about what the current hiring environment for law departments means.
Canadian Firms Stand Firm on Commitments to DEI
According to attorneys, Canada’s legal sector is unaffected by the DEI backlash in the United States. However, others contend that it offers a chance to develop even more significant and successful plans and projects.
Trump Targets Perkins Coie, Other Firms in Broad Order
The attorney general is also instructed by the expansive order to examine the DEI policies of “large, influential, or industry-leading law firms.”
Wilson’s Re-segregation of Fed Workforce Holds Lessons for Today’s Anti-DEI Backlash
We worry that the chaos the EOs have caused will lead to a widespread backlash against not only unlawful preferences and quotas but also against the crucial outreach, education, training, and access initiatives that have contributed significantly to decades of advancement in the fight against discrimination.
Big Law Firms Have Quietly Removed DEI Website Language, Altered Diversity Policies
A multitude of law firms have removed DEI information and struck the word “diversity” from DEI-focused topics on their sites.
Women in Leadership Roles Fuel Revenue Growth
Companies with more diverse management teams showed larger revenue increases than those with less diverse leadership, according to research.
California’s Judiciary Grew More Diverse in 2024, Even as Number of Latino Judges Dipped
According to data the state disclosed, the number of trial court judges who identify as Latino or Hispanic fell by five between 2023 and 2024.
Nine Trailblazing Women at Top Law Firms in Africa Share Their Leadership Tips
As managing partners in prestigious legal firms around Africa, nine remarkable women are shattering stereotypes by demonstrating knowledge, tenacity, and a dedication to mentoring.
Gender Pay Gap at Law Firms in Australia is Closing, Report Finds
Because the study did not compare like-for-like roles, firms claim the gap is smaller than stated. Furthermore, the data pertains to the firm’s attorneys alone for certain businesses, whilst it pertains to all employees for others.
The road less travelled: the female founder journey in lawtech
Launch of divorce services Kate Daly, co-founder of Amicable, talks about the difficulties faced by female company owners while starting and expanding their enterprises.
Office Openings & Closing:
According to the firm, its litigation and investigations partners, Adam Goldberg in San Francisco and Ronald Cheng in Los Angeles, will soon be permitted to practice local Hong Kong law.
Haynes and Boone Launches Practice Advising Companies Mulling Over a Move to Texas
The Dallas-based business, which serves as counsel to the Texas Stock Exchange, has observed an increase in the interest of its current and potential clients in relocating their headquarters to the Lone Star State or incorporating in Texas.
Wilson Sonsini to Close Office in Beijing
Wilson Sonsini is now the 18th American company to shut down a Greater China office in less than two years.
Aird & Berlis Opens First Office Outside Toronto with Indigenous Law Team from Gowling WLG
The latest in a series of company expansions in the city, the firm’s new permanent facility in Vancouver will house 12 lawyers.
Pinsent Masons Launches Four-Partner Office in Saudi Capital, Riyadh
The most recent action taken by Pinsent Masons shows how much the company is shifting its assets. In February, it opened a new office in Shenzhen, China, and laid off 14 equity partners in Germany.
Indonesian law firm Murzal & Partners opens Bali office
In an effort to reach the island’s booming expat population and business community, the Indonesian law firm Murzal & Partners (MNP) has opened a new office in Bali.
Mergers & Alliances:
Taft Enters Florida with Boutique Acquisition
Taft Stettinius & Hollister, which was founded in Cincinnati, is opening two offices in Florida, marking its first Southeast physical locations.
The fruitful outcome of Womble’s biggest mergers was by no means a sure thing, its chair and CEO writes.
Clifford Chance Ties Up with Chinese Firm He Ping in Shanghai FTZ
He Ping Law Firm was founded in 1993 and has five partners in Shanghai, including two former Clifford Chance attorneys.
Japan’s TMI Associates Establishes Sydney Desk with Australian Firm
Johnson Winter Slattery stated that clients will benefit from the expertise of both firms.
French law firm LPA expands Asian footprint with Vietnam merger
By integrating Vietnam-based APFL Partners, the French law company LPA Law has grown in Southeast Asia, gaining six locations and solidifying its standing as one of the top Francophone legal organizations in the area.
Japan’s Miura absorbs Seattle firm to launch second U.S. outpost
As part of its aggressive worldwide expansion strategy, Japanese legal firm Miura & Partners has opened its second U.S. office in Seattle following the acquisition of local boutique Baxter legal International.
Two sets of mid-sized UK law firms unveil mergers as business costs rise
Seddons and GSC Solicitors in London and Wilkin Chapman and Rollits, two groups of mid-sized UK commercial law firms, have announced plans to unite. On April 1, the agreements to form Seddons GSC and Wilkin Chapman Rollits will be finalized, resulting in consolidated businesses with respective revenues of £22 million and £40 million.
Technology & Innovation:
Addleshaw Goddard Becomes Latest Firm to Roll Out AI Tool Legora
The company is closely emulating Bird & Bird, which last week announced that it was launching Legora.
Behind Ballard Spahr’s Decision to Develop Internal Gen AI Tools
After considering significant costs and security concerns, the company decided to develop a chatbot, an interactive document management system, and a client intelligence tool.
LexisNexis Announces Release of Updated Case Management Platform CaseMap+ AI
The company’s CaseMap Cloud case management software for litigators now includes generative artificial intelligence models.
DeepSeek’s Legal and Cross-Cultural Risks and Benefits
Business-focused AI research may be negatively impacted by the cultural and commercial biases included in the DeepSeek AI Large Language Model (LLM), which was developed in China, as well as the datasets that were used to train the LLM. These cultural differences are especially relevant in international commercial dealings.
The Future of Law: How Automation is Reshaping Legal Practices
The legal industry is evolving rapidly, with new technologies transforming how law firms operate. From workflow automation to digital case management, firms are increasingly leveraging tech to enhance efficiency and client service.
Market Commentary:
Skadden, Debevoise Consider Implementing Non-Equity Partnership Tier
About half of partners in Big Law now are classified as nonequity partners.
Navigating the Pressures on Corporate Law Departments: A Strategic Approach
In order to improve decision-making, expedite workflows, and optimize document management, organizations are spending more and more in genAI technologies and updated legal tech solutions. Adopting AI tools alone, however, is insufficient; a careful and calculated deployment strategy is required for success.
The Collapse of Lundgrens: A Cautionary Tale for Mid-Sized Law Firms
The chief partner of DLA Piper Denmark views the Danish legal market as “cautious but positive.”
The Future of Law Firm Leadership Is Balancing Profitability with Purpose
According to Michael J. Epstein, managing partner of The Epstein Law Firm, “the legal industry is at risk of over-indexing on convenience at the expense of depth.” “A tool that facilitates lawyers’ work does not always improve it.”
Nigerian Firms See Surge in Legal Work Amid $81.5B Binance Lawsuit and Crackdowns
Tax enforcement, data investigations, and transactions are keeping attorneys extremely busy in 2025, according to Olaniwun Ajayi and other leading Nigerian legal firms.
UK Partners Deserve a Bigger Slice of Law Firm Profits
Since London is a legal powerhouse and U.K. M&A is utilized in many parts of the world, why aren’t British partners paid fairly?
How Cole, Scott & Kissane Increased Efficiency Without Cutting Staff or Lawyers
After years of deploying database and paperless systems, the Florida-based company is now focusing on generative AI and seeing productivity advantages.
As More Law Firms Adopt 4-Day Office Policies, Will Others See ‘Safety in Numbers’?
Wilmer, the newest Big Law firm to increase its in-office mandate, will compel that its attorneys be in the office four days a week as of April 28
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Latham Boosts UK Tech Offering with Reed Smith Hire
Latham & Watkins have announced Sophie Goossens has joined the firm’s London office as a partner in the Artificial Intelligence (AI), Communications, and Copyright Practices, and member of the Technology Industry Group.
Paul Weiss Adds BCLP Partner in London
Paul Weiss has hired a partner from BCLP as the US law firm builds out its team in London. The firm have added tax specialist Kyle O’Sullivan to their ranks.
Ashurst expands securitisation expertise with senior partner hire in London
Ashurst, a worldwide law firm, has expanded its securitization offering by adding Tauhid Ijaz as a partner in the London global markets office. Tauhid, who has more than 20 years of experience in the securitization market, arrives from Hogan Lovells.
Clifford Chance Continues to Grow Global Private Capital Team with Hire of Patrick Scott
Clifford Chance, a worldwide law firm, is pleased to announce that Patrick Scott will be joining the London-based Private Capital division as a Partner. Patrick has been with KKR since 2019 and has a wealth of knowledge from his position as European Counsel.
Gibson Dunn Adds Senior Finance Duo from Sullivan & Cromwell in London
In a bold move, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher hired two senior finance partners from London’s Sullivan & Cromwell, a competitor firm in the United States. Presley Warner, a European credit and leveraged finance partner, and Chris Howard, the company’s head of European restructuring, are both expected to join Gibson Dunn.
Freshfields Swipes Paul Hastings Infra Stars
Stuart Rowson and Jessamy Gallagher, who co-led Linklaters’ infrastructure practice until joining Paul Hastings two years ago, are back at the Magic Circle.
After a string of departures last year, Latham has now used lateral hiring for the third time this year to strengthen its services in the UK. After departing Akin in 2024, the new hire, Serena Lee, will contribute her experience to the firm’s transactional tax and investment funds efforts.
Orrick Hires Katten Restructuring Team in London
A three-person team from Katten Muchin Rosenman joined Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe’s London office recently, extending the firm’s restructuring skills. Partner Praveen Reddy, who has been with Katten since 2020, is leading the recently hired team.
Eversheds Sutherland welcomes new private capital partner to its corporate offering
Alex formerly worked as a counsel in the private capital division of the US multinational law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP before joining the global law firm’s London office.
Pillsbury to Add High-Profile Corporate Partner Hamid Yunis as London Expansion Continues
After five and a half years as the London Office Managing Partner and head of the London Health Care group at McDermott Will & Emery, where he was a vital member of the team that greatly increased the office’s headcount and revenue, Yunis will join the firm’s corporate practice.
Carson McDowell welcomes new partner Gary Adair
Gary Adair has joined the litigation and conflict resolution practice of Northern Ireland’s Carson McDowell as a partner. With more than 17 years of experience in insolvency, restructuring, and debt recovery, Mr. Adair is an expert in banking litigation and secured recovery cases.
APAC
Kirkland Hong Kong Partner Duo Departs for EQT
Shinong Wang and Raymond Wong are no longer at Kirkland. This departure from Kirkland Hong Kong follows those of commercial litigation partner Paul Quinn, who joined Herbert Smith Freehills, and private equity and M&A partner Gary Li, who moved to PRC outfit Zhong Lun Law Firm.
Tax Partner Dixon Hearder Rejoins Baker McKenzie in Australia
Dixon Hearder had spent more than ten years working at Baker McKenzie.
KWM Hires Skadden Beijing Partner for Hong Kong Bench
Hong Kong’s largest law firm, King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) Hong Kong, has expanded its Equity Capital Markets Practice with the addition of Kai Sun as a partner in Hong Kong SAR. Kai Sun has more than 15 years of experience in Hong Kong capital markets and mergers and acquisitions. Highly regarded by clients and industry peers alike, Kai represents both issuers and underwriters in initial public offerings, follow-on equity offerings and debt offerings.
Jones Day Strengthens Hong Kong Office With Kirkland Partner and Former Sidley Counsel
Ming Kong and Dominic Sze who are capital markets attorneys are set to move to the firm.
Bakers grows Vietnam offering with corporate hire from Freshfields
Chris Milliken, a business specialist who previously served as counsel at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, has joined the Ho Chi Minh City branch of international legal firm Baker McKenzie as a partner. Milliken represents banks and private equity firms in Vietnam and other APAC nations with a corporate and finance practice that encompasses M&A, private equity, joint ventures, financing, and capital markets operations.
EMEA
Clyde & Co adds three more partners in Saudi Arabia
The expansion includes the hire of two dispute resolution lawyers and the promotion of a projects & construction lawyer.
Kirkland & Ellis expands investment funds practice to Middle East with Riyadh partner hire
Nabil Abou-Charaf will be joining from Morgan Lewis & Bockius.
Herbert Smith Freehills hires Johannesburg construction director
Herbert Smith Freehills have added Spencer Naicker as their projects, energy and infrastructure director in their Johannesburg office.
The Americas
Holland & Knight Strengthens Litigation Practice with Addition of Peter Hardy in Philadelphia
Peter Hardy, a tax controversy and anti-money laundering specialist, has joined Holland & Knight’s Philadelphia litigation group.
Duane Morris Adds Assistant U.S. Attorneys on East and West Coast
Garth Hire and Eric Boden, both former federal prosecutors, are joining the firm’s trial units in San Francisco and New York, respectively.
Big Law Keeps Up Hiring Spree in DC, as Government Workers Flood Job Market
Gibson Dunn, Zuckerman Spaeder, Lowenstein, Holland & Knight, Brownstein, McGuireWoods and Wiley all announced new hires in their D.C. and Baltimore offices, many of which are joining from the federal government.
Former FCC Space Bureau Chief Heads to DLA Piper
Arriving with decades of government and internal telecom experience is Julie Kearney.
Simpson Thacher Hires Former Wilson Sonsini Partner as IP Litigation Head
Amy Candido joins Simpson Thacher after more than three years as a partner at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati.
People in the News—Feb. 25, 2025—Williams, Armstrong Teasdale
Lisa H. Prezelski, a family law attorney from Bucks County, has joined the Williams Family Law team.
Lieff Cabraser’s Sarah London Joins Girard Sharp
London, who spent 15 years at Lieff Cabraser, began working at Girard Sharp in San Francisco on Tuesday.
K&L Gates Welcomes New Partners in Energy, Disputes Practices
After hiring the former global lead for international disputes at Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton in Washington earlier this week, the firm is now announcing the addition of a legacy Allen & Overy partner Thomas Allen from A&O Shearman in New York.
NJ Firm Lands Duane Morris Partner for New Philadelphia Office
Seth Goldberg, a litigator and co-chair of the cannabis practice at his previous company, has been appointed by Pashman Stein to head the office at One Commerce Square.
Dentons Hires DLA Piper Global Insurance Co-Chair in 2-Partner Move
Aidan McCormack and Mark Deckman joined Dentons’ commercial litigation practice in New York.
Winston & Strawn Picks Up Former US Attorney in Dallas
Damien Diggs, who left his position as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas last month, has joined Winston & Strawn. He will focus on enforcement and compliance cases as well as internal investigations.
Two King & Spalding Patent Trial Attorneys Have Joined Arnold & Porter
Abby Parsons and Brent Ray, both patent trial attorneys, will be joining the Houston and Chicago offices, respectively.
Former Big Law Trial Lawyer Joins California-based Litigation Firm in Austin
Scott Cole, an Austin trial lawyer, left his solo practice to become the managing partner of Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg’s Austin office.
Hecker Fink Launches Los Angeles Office With Ex-AUSA Hires
Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Jenkins was hired by the East Coast litigation company to start the new location.
Former SDNY Complex Frauds & Cybercrime Chief Joins Pryor Cashman’s New York Office
Katherine Reilly has joined the white-collar and regulatory enforcement practice of Pryor Cashman as a partner. Her most recent position was Chief of the Southern District of New York U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Complex Frauds & Cybercrime Unit.
Paul Hastings hires Latham partner in Boston to co-head new global tech transactions practice
Sarah Gagan, a well-regarded IP and technology lawyer, has joined Paul Hastings as co-chair of the firm’s recently established global technology transactions group.
Freshfields adds Latham M&A partner for Boston debut
In an effort to expand into the US market, Freshfields has recruited a senior private capital M&A partner from rival Latham & Watkins to open an office in Boston.
In-House
Texas Rangers Hire Legal Chief of Komen Breast Cancer Foundation as GC
Eunice Nakamura was the previous vice president of law for the company that owns the Motel 6 and Studio 6 Extended Stay franchises in the US and Canada.
Ex-Mastercard CLO Richard Verma Returning to Card Giant in Even-More-Senior Role
During the last two years, Verma has served as the State Department’s COO for the third time.
Fortune 300 GC Scores CLO Post at World’s Largest Food Distributor
Jennifer Kaplan Schott became associate general counsel at Discover, where she worked for the majority of her in-house career.
Corporate Breakups Are Spawning New Legal Chief Roles
Western Digital, a pioneer in Silicon Valley, split up on Monday. Additionally, Honeywell declared earlier this month that it would split into three businesses.
US financial services firm Ascensus hires senior WilmerHale counsel as CLO
Joe Dansky, who declared his intention to leave last year, has been replaced as chief legal officer by Phillip Gillespie at Ascensus, a US financial services company. Gillespie was a senior lawyer at WilmerHale before joining.
Reed Smith makes partner raids on quintet of firms to launch in Denver
In an effort to expand into the US market, Freshfields has recruited a senior private capital M&A partner from rival Latham & Watkins to open an office in Boston.
Team Moves
Alston & Bird Adds Partner from Schulte, Greenberg Traurig Promotes Six to Shareholder in Atlanta
In Florida, Taylor English Duma and Pierson Ferdinand also added business associates.
Willkie Snags 3 Jenner Litigators for New National Security Practice
Willkie’s new national security and cross-border litigation practice will be led by Lee Wolosky, who was previously co-chair of Jenner’s litigation department.
Perkins Coie Adds 3 Greenberg Traurig M&A, Private Equity Lawyers in Texas
In an effort to expand their business across the country, a group of Texas-based Greenberg Traurig private equity and M&A attorneys, led by Austin partner Kyle Fox, relocated to Perkins Coie in Austin and Dallas.
Kirkland Lost 10 Greater China Partners in 12 Months
Three of the ten departees have joined private equity firms internally. David Eich, Kirkland’s original Asian partner, also recently retired from the company.
Keystone Law adds partners from Kirkland, Memery Crystal in latest hiring round
In its most recent hiring round, Keystone Law hired eight partners from companies including Kirkland & Ellis and Memery Crystal as the firm focuses on hiring to spur expansion.
Gunnercooke enters Chicago with ex-FisherBroyles team
A five-partner team from FisherBroyles has been hired by Gunnercooke to launch an office in Chicago. This is the platform company’s second location in the UK, following its 2022 opening in New York.
Financials:
California Law Firms Saw Banner Year for Revenue, Profit Growth in 2024
Profits per equity partner in both Northern and Southern California also greatly increased last year.
An Early Look: The 2025 Am Law 200 Financials
This feed is updated continuously. Thus, save it to your bookmarks, return often, and keep an eye out for the upcoming Am Law 100 and Second Hundred reports.
Billing Rates Keep Increasing. GCs Question Whether Their Growth is Sustainable
In an economic climate bewildered by advances in Gen AI, obstinate inflation, and uncertainty brought on by a new federal administration, law firm billing rates—which are currently at record-high levels—may be a bubble about to burst.
Dechert Grows Revenue Past $1.5B, Rebounding After Flat 2023
Profits per equity partner jumped 36% to nearly $4.8 million in the year before the company’s 150th anniversary, while its top line rose 17% over the previous year.
BCLP Posts Modest Revenue Growth as Head Count Continues to Shrink
As RPL and PEP rose in 2024 despite a drop in headcount, the company’s profit margin dropped another point, and net income somewhat decreased.
As Profits Skyrocket, Law Firms Maintain Equity Tier Exclusivity
“The bar is constantly getting higher and higher to become an equity partner at a law firm,” one source said.
Morgan & Morgan’s ‘Delay’ Tactic Bumps Attorney Fees to $192K
Following an appellate victory against plaintiff counsel with Morgan & Morgan in an automobile tort involving former NBA star Jordan Hill, defence counsel with Groth Makarenko Kaiser Eidex was able to secure an additional $17,000 in legal costs.
Paul Weiss Sees Revenue Jump 32%, PEP Hits $7.5M, in ‘Transformative’ Year
The firm’s staff increased by over 24% to 1,250 lawyers after it invested “hundreds of millions” of dollars in its platform, according to firm chair Brad Karp.
McGuireWoods’ Revenue Grew 9% to $1.1 Billion, As Demand Picked Up
PEP jumped 11.8% to $2.3 million, while net income increased 15% despite an increase in equity partners.
Private Equity Investment in UK Law Firms Rises to Over £500 Million in 2024
PE invested a total of £1.2 billion between 2019 and 2024.
Spanish Law Firms Post Revenue Rises
After growing its foreign activities, Pérez-Llorca’s global turnover soared by 33% in 2024, while Gómez-Acebo & Pombo’s income surpassed €100 million in the previous year.
Promotions & Appointments:
Former Mayer Brown Attorney Set to Become Germany’s Next Chancellor
Friedrich Merz, an M&A lawyer, wants to establish a government as soon as possible, most likely with the Social Democrats.
Big Four Singapore Firm Rajah & Tann Appoints New Managing Partner
According to its new managing partner, the company will keep concentrating on its AI investments and look for global expansion prospects.
Simmons Announces New Managing Partner
Emily Monastiriotis, currently international head of dispute resolution, has been a partner at the firm since 2017. She also sits on the firm’s international executive committee and has previously served as UK head of dispute resolution.
Multilaw adds Francophone Africa foothold
law-firm network Multilaw have announced that they have added Icarus Legal as their member firm for Guinea.
Diversity & Inclusion:
How Sidley’s Miami Managing Partner Embraced Her Roots to Thrive in a Male-Dominated Field
Having spent her whole life in Miami, Beatriz Azcuy has seen her coworkers leave as they pursued chances in larger markets. However, by staying in her hometown and embracing who she is, she has been able to play a significant role in Sidley Austin becoming one of the city’s fastest-growing firms.
Reports of DEI’s Death at John Deere May Have Been Greatly Exaggerated
After all, a diversity-promoting advocacy group won’t be holding John Deere accountable. The organization retracted its demand to shareholders for further personnel data “after a number of dialogues over several months with Deere & Co. staff on its intention to pursue strategic human capital management to maximize long-term growth.”
‘Marked Lack of Clarity’: Many Companies Holding Line on DEI, but Trump’s Threats Have Them Worried
According to Jeanine Conley Daves, head of diversity practice at Littler Mendelson, “leaders are looking for ways to balance legal risks with the value such programs provide to their workforces and company cultures.”
Clarifying DEI: It Might Not Be What You Think
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion differentiates itself from Affirmative Action. It does not pit people of one protected class against those of another.
What Progress for Black Partners at UK Law Firms?
By 2020, there were 20,505 solicitors who identified as ethnic minorities, up from just 709 in 1990. Supervisors who began their careers in the 1990s might require further assistance to make sure their strategy satisfies the demands of this swift demographic change.
Office Openings & Closing:
Houston-Founded Midsize Law Firm Launches Galveston Office, Its 8th Nationwide
A partner in the Galveston office represents marine clients, a busy profession because of the Port of Galveston.
Pashman Stein Launches New Philadelphia Office with Duane Morris Partner
Seth Goldberg, a litigator and co-chair of the cannabis practice at his previous company, has been appointed by Pashman Stein to head the office at One Commerce Square.
Hecker Fink Launches Los Angeles Office With 2 Ex-AUSA Hires
Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Jenkins was hired by the East Coast litigation company to start the new location.
Due to the attractiveness of the two nearby neighborhoods, some legal offices are moving west as traffic and prices rise.
KPMG Launches U.S. Law Firm After Landing Arizona Approval
the accounting firm has stated that KPMG is “uniquely positioned to transform the delivery of legal services.”
Wilmer Adds 14K Square Feet to San Francisco Footprint with New Office
Within six years of relocating to San Francisco, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale & Dorr has more than doubled its office footprint.
Am Law 200 Firms See Atlanta as ‘Gateway’ to the Southeast
Clark Hill CEO John Hensien said that “not only did Atlanta get us into the Southeast, but it seems to have accelerated our ability to expand in that region as well.”
Japan’s Miura & Partners Expands Globally with Launches in the U.S., Thailand and Malaysia
The firm now has more offices in foreign locations than it has in Japan.
Indonesian law firm Murzal & Partners opens Bali office
In an effort to reach the island’s booming expat population and business community, the Indonesian law firm Murzal & Partners (MNP) has opened a new office in Bali.
Mergers & Alliances:
Baretz+Brunelle Acquires LexFusion
With this change, the legal growth advising firm will be able to assist investors and legal tech firms.
Saxton & Stump Absorbs Midsize Firm in York
The business plans to expand even further in 2025, in addition to hiring 24 new lawyers.
CMS Pushes on with China Growth, Localizes Hong Kong Practice with Merger
At least five partners from Morrison & Foerster, Mayer Brown, DLA Piper, and Ince & Co Hong Kong have been employed by CMS in Hong Kong since 2023.
Technology & Innovation:
Patent Intelligence Platform Patlytics Announces $14M Series A
The new investment, spearheaded by Next47 Ventures, will enable the business to grow its workforce and range of products.
‘We’re Building an Iron Man Suit for Them’: Bird & Bird Gives Attorneys Access to AI Platform
After a successful six-month trial, the law firm will grant access to the AI platform to all of its attorneys.
vLex Updates Vincent AI to Analyze Video, Audio from Judicial Proceedings
New workflows, enhancements to the argument builder feature, support for four new markets, and an update on the company’s law firm AI co-development lab are also included in the winter 2025 release.
As previously mentioned in our analysis of this subject, practitioners in the corporate and legal sectors need to be aware of the various applications (and heritage) of structured and semi-structured data in their organizations in order to better comprehend the risks and possible guidelines associated with this changing information channel.
Due Diligence Startup Jurimesh Secures $1.67 Million in Pre-seed Funding
The money will be used by Jurimesh, a company based in Belgium, to improve its features, personnel, and market research.
Market Commentary:
Troubles and Tribulations of a Multistate Remote Workforce
The post-pandemic shift from in-office work norms to a multistate remote employment environment is covered in this article. concentrating especially on the facts, concerns, and regulations that employers must abide with.
After Year of Financial Gains, Sharpening Partner Profitability Becomes Next Goal
“Partners want to know how to continue. “How can we increase our revenue?” asked Kristin Stark, a consultant at Fairfax.
This essay explores how successful brand strategies drive public relations in legal firms.
What’s a ‘New York Firm’ in 2025? Latham’s Bid to Edge Out Wall Street Stalwarts
Recent discussions with Latham’s leading partners in New York, forty years after the firm’s office debuted, provide light on the firm’s approach there.
Should Eight-Figure Lateral Partners Make It Rain Right Away?
The difficulties businesses have in the lateral market and in establishing realistic expectations regarding ramp-up times and return on investment are highlighted by one case at White & Case involving a couple who command a combined annual total of at least $25 million.
Below the Billing Rate Leaders, Firms Must Balance Value with Talent Retention
Although there is a smaller pool of “bet-the-company” business available to higher-rate firms, those that undercut them on price need to be mindful of paying attorneys fairly.
Why General Counsel Can’t Risk Leaving Crisis Planning to Others
According to Harvard Business School senior fellow Robert Kaplan, “the payoff from preparing for risks that may never materialize in the first place cannot be as easily explained to senior decision-makers as the more straightforward relationship between other corporate actions and return on investment.”
How Quickly Should Star Lateral Partners Make It Rain?
The difficulties businesses have in the lateral market and in establishing realistic expectations regarding ramp-up times and return on investment are highlighted by one case at White & Case involving a couple who command a combined annual total of at least $25 million.
European CLOs see responsibilities grow beyond legal advice; ACC study finds
According to a recent Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) report, chief legal officers of European businesses are progressively extending their influence outside of the legal domain.
US Firms Are Racing to Dominate Europe’s New Patent Battleground
The Unified Patent Court (UPC) is changing the rules of the game in European patent law—and attracting U.S. law firms that want to secure a place in this lucrative and highly competitive field.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in corporate leadership as more General Counsels (GCs) are stepping into Chief Operating Officer (COO) roles. This trend reflects the evolving responsibilities of the modern GC, who is no longer confined to legal strategy but now plays a central role in business operations, risk management, and corporate governance.
This rise is not accidental but a reflection of broader changes in the corporate environment, where the skills and knowledge traditionally associated with the GC position have become invaluable to operational leadership. Here’s a closer look at why this shift is happening, in which sectors it is most prevalent, and what it means for both GCs and the organisations they serve.
Historically, the role of the General Counsel focused on providing legal advice and ensuring regulatory compliance. Today, however, the responsibilities of a GC have broadened significantly. GCs are increasingly seen as key business partners, advising not only on legal matters but also on strategic decisions that affect the company’s overall direction.
GCs are deeply involved in risk management, governance, and policy development—areas that overlap significantly with the responsibilities of a COO. As organisations face growing regulatory complexities and an ever-evolving risk landscape, GCs are ideally positioned to help navigate these challenges while maintaining operational efficiency.
This trend is particularly evident in industries where regulatory oversight, litigation risks, and existential challenges are more pronounced. Highly regulated sectors such as financial services, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology have seen a significant rise in GCs taking on COO roles. These industries require leaders who can navigate complex legal frameworks while ensuring seamless business operations.
Similarly, companies facing increased scrutiny from government agencies, activist investors, or public opinion, such as energy, telecommunications, and consumer goods, are recognising the value of GCs in operational leadership. Their ability to mitigate risks, manage compliance, and align legal strategies with business objectives makes them well-suited for the COO position.
Risk management has traditionally been a significant part of the COO’s role, but GCs have extensive experience in managing corporate risks, particularly those related to litigation, compliance, and regulatory oversight. The GC’s ability to assess risk from both a legal and operational perspective makes them natural candidates to oversee broader business functions.
Their experience in making high-stakes decisions that balance risk and reward aligns well with the strategic focus required of a COO. In fact, many organisations recognise that having a leader who can approach risk with a legal lens can enhance the company’s resilience and agility, especially in highly regulated industries.
Corporate governance and regulatory compliance are key responsibilities for both GCs and COOs. With more companies placing emphasis on ESG criteria, the demand for leaders who can operationalise compliance and integrate these practices into day-to-day functions has grown. GCs, who are already deeply embedded in governance frameworks, are well-positioned to take on this challenge.
Moreover, GCs often work closely with boards of directors, giving them a comprehensive view of the company’s strategic goals and operational challenges. This board-level insight is invaluable for COOs, who are tasked with translating high-level strategy into efficient and effective business operations.
One of the core strengths of in-house lawyers is their ability to connect the dots across different departments. GCs frequently collaborate with teams across finance, compliance, HR, risk, and business operations to address complex issues. This ability to synthesise information and align cross-functional teams makes the transition to COO a natural evolution.
As companies become more complex and interconnected, the ability to bring together diverse stakeholders and drive consensus is critical. GCs, by virtue of their role, are skilled in facilitating communication across different areas of the business, making them effective operational leaders who can drive change and innovation while ensuring regulatory adherence.
GCs bring a unique perspective on corporate culture and ethics, areas that are increasingly important in COO roles. As companies face growing scrutiny from both regulators and the public, having a leader who can champion a culture of compliance, transparency, and ethical behaviour is a major asset. GCs, who are often the guardians of these principles within organisations, naturally extend this responsibility when they step into operational leadership roles.
Furthermore, as COOs are often tasked with driving transformation and change management, the GC’s experience in navigating complex legal and regulatory frameworks can be invaluable in implementing strategic initiatives while mitigating risks.
Conclusion: A Natural Evolution
The rise of General Counsels stepping into COO roles reflects the evolving nature of both positions. In today’s complex corporate landscape, the skills that GCs bring, risk management, governance, compliance, strategic oversight, and cross-functional collaboration, are increasingly aligned with the demands of operational leadership. This trend signifies not just a shift in individual career paths but a broader transformation in how companies view legal and operational leadership as interconnected rather than siloed functions.
For organisations, having a COO with a legal background offers a unique blend of operational expertise and risk mitigation, making GCs an ideal fit for this evolving leadership role. As this trend continues, we can expect to see more GCs embracing operational responsibilities and helping to shape the future of business leadership.
If you would like to discuss how Fides could help with any recruitment needs you may have, please get in touch with Sershen Ingram – sershen@fidessearch.com
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Linklaters hires CMA litigation chief in London
After eight years at the CMA as its first deputy general counsel and, prior to that, senior director of litigation, Jessica Radke will join the company in May as a senior counsel.
Baker Botts Adds Former White & Case Head of Project Finance in London
The London branch of Texas-based Baker Botts has expanded by hiring the former global head of project finance from White & Case. According to someone with knowledge of the situation, Mark Castillo-Bernaus, the former global head of project development and finance at White & Case, has joined Baker Botts.
Hogan Lovells hires two BCLP partners to strengthen London competition class action team
As it looks to take advantage of a spike in cases before the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), Hogan Lovells has brought on two lawyers from BCLP’s renowned class action practice in London.
The hiring of Edward Coulson and Andrew Leitch represents a rare sortie by Hogan Lovells into the London lateral market for antitrust dispute attorneys practicing outside of the purview of traditional competition law.
Gibson Dunn adds DLA Piper investment funds co-chair in London
In an effort to expand its investment funds business in London, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher has recruited a senior investment funds partner from DLA Piper. James O’Donnell, who served as global co-chair of investment funds at DLA Piper for 11 years, has joined the company.
APAC
Japan’s Nishimura builds antitrust and trade capabilities in Brussels
Two new partners have joined the newly opened Brussels office of Nishimura & Asahi, a Japanese Big Four legal firm: antitrust specialist Kristina Winkelmann has joined from Gleiss Lutz, and international trade partner Benoit Servais (L) has joined from Van Bael & Bellis.
CMS Holborn Asia bolsters Singapore office with Financial Services Regulatory hire
Following a 2017 merger, CMS, now known as CMS Holborn Asia, has acquired a partner from Baker McKenzie to head its financial services regulation group in Singapore. CMS’s banking and finance practice will employ Ying Yi Liew as a director.
Norton Rose Fulbright appoints former APRA chief general counsel Lucinda McCann as a partner in Sydney. Lucinda brings more than 25 years’ experience of transactional and advisory work as a legal advisor to executives and boards across a range of sectors including government and regulatory, financial services and corporate.
Jones Day Hires Australian Regulatory Partner from Norton Rose Fulbright Australia
Norton Rose Fulbright has hired a partner to join Jones Day’s government regulation practice in Australia. With 30 years of experience working in all facets of environmental law, Elizabeth Wild, who joins the firm’s Sydney office, specialises in handling contaminated land and remedial law concerns.
A&O Shearman steals litigator Amy Middlebrook from Baker McKenzie
Amy Middlebrook, a litigator, left Baker McKenzie to join A&O Shearman.
She joined the firm this week and brings a wealth of experience in class action lawsuits, financial services, and complicated commercial litigation. She has addressed issues with the ACCC and ASIC.
Kirkland HK exits continue as funds partner joins DLA as of counsel
Wang Shinong, a partner in investment funds, joined DLA Piper as an of counsel, marking the third partner departure from the Hong Kong office of the U.S. law firm Kirkland & Ellis in February alone.
Deacons nabs corporate finance duo from Reed Smith
The largest law firm in Hong Kong, Deacons, has added two partners from the U.S. firm Reed Smith to its banking and finance unit. Crystal Li was a lawyer and Michael Sinn (L) was a partner.
Ex-StanChart, JPM, Citi veteran joins Hong Kong’s DCLO as partner
Kris Daswani, a lawyer with more than 25 years of experience at prominent financial companies like Standard Chartered, JPMorgan, and Citigroup, has joined Hong Kong speciality David Cameron Law Office (DCLO) as a partner.
SG: Penningtons hires shipping disputes partner from Rajah & Tann
Max Lim is a maritime and commodities disputes expert who has joined the Singapore office of London-based law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper as a partner. He comes from Rajah & Tann, a Big Four law firm.
Malaysia: Zaid Ibrahim partner joins DFDL-linked Robin Lynn & Lee
Caera Lee, a partner from local powerhouse Zaid Ibrahim & Co., has joined Malaysia’s Robin Lynn & Lee, which collaborates with regional law firm DFDL.
Tax Partner Dixon Hearder Rejoins Baker McKenzie in Australia
Dixon Hearder had previously been with Baker McKenzie for over a decade.
EMEA
King & Spalding hits Baker McKenzie for Brussels trade duo
In an effort to replenish its trade bench in Brussels after departures late last year, King & Spalding (K&S) has hired two trade lawyers from Baker McKenzie.
Eversheds Bets Big on Its Middle East ALSP—But Is the Market Overheating?
By enlisting leading data protection and artificial intelligence specialist Richard Chudzynski as a partner to introduce its Konexo ALSP in a field that is becoming more and more competitive, Eversheds Sutherland is making a calculated move in the Middle East.
BCLP Takes Paul Hasting Real Estate Partner in Paris
Jean-Louis Martin, a former head of the real estate practice and office vice-chair for Paris, departed Paul Hastings to become a partner at BCLP.
DLA Piper Grows Restructuring Practice with Garrigues Partnerv
To lead the firm’s restructuring practice in Spain, DLA Piper has brought on a new partner from Garrigues. Juan Verdugo, a 13-year equity partner at Garrigues, will become the fourth restructuring partner to join DLA Piper in Europe in the last year when he joins the firm in Madrid at the end of April.
The Americas
Simpson Thacher builds out in Boston with hires from Cooley, Ropes & Gray
With the addition of a partner each from Cooley and Ropes & Grey, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has expanded its newly opened Boston office. As Cooley’s first litigation partner in Boston, Zachary Hafer has joined the firm’s government and internal investigations practice. Yonatan Levy, formerly of Ropes & Grey, has joined the private funds practice.
Orrick Expands US Energy, Infrastructure Team With A&O Shearman Lawyers
Matt Nesburn has joined Orrick’s infrastructure and energy practice. Quinn-Cane, a lawyer at A&O Shearman, and Armbrust, an associate, joined Orrick as partners separately in January.
Cozen O’Connor Brings on Father-Daughter Duo to Boost Real Estate Practice
For almost 15 years, David Ebby, a real estate lawyer from Philadelphia, collaborated with his father, Stuart. He may now work alongside his daughter, Bailey.
Saiber LLC launched a new family law practice and added a new member
Saiber has announced Stacey A. Cozewith as a new member of the firm. Stacey, a seasoned family law lawyer with more than 20 years of experience, contributes a plethora of skills and information to the new firm. Stacey served people and families in delicate and complicated family law cases for twenty years at a reputable boutique family law company before joining Saiber.
McCarter & English Lands Former Shutts & Bowen Latin America Chair
Two Miami attorneys with a focus on private client work, including one who held many executive positions at Shutts & Bowen, are joining the New Jersey-based company.
Ex-9th Circuit Judge Paul Watford Moves from Wilson Sonsini to King & Spalding in L.A.
Paul Watford, a former judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit for 11 years, has become a partner in the firm’s Business Litigation practice group. He works out of the Los Angeles branch of the firm.
Baker Botts Hires Co-Chair of Winston’s Leveraged Finance Practice
Former co-chair of Winston & Strawn’s leveraged finance practice, Sanjay Thapar, a finance lawyer, joined Baker Botts as a partner in its corporate practice in New York.
In-House
World’s largest cinema operator AMC Entertainment names interim GC
US cinema-owner AMC Entertainment has named Edwin Gladbach as interim general counsel after long-time GC Kevin Connor announced his retirement.
Online radio broadcaster SiriusXM lures ex-Airbnb CLO out of retirement as new GC
In lieu of Patrick Donnelly, who is retiring in April, SiriusXM, a US satellite radio and internet broadcaster, has appointed seasoned in-house attorney Richard Baer as general counsel.
Former A&O Shearman Hong Kong Partner Goes In-House with John Swire & Sons
In order to succeed Milton Cheng, whose second term ends later this year, Baker McKenzie is getting ready for elections. The corporation was still in shock over the sudden loss of its previous leader, Paul Rawlinson, when the Singapore-based boss, who had been in charge for six years, took over.
Manpower Combines GC, HR Roles After Longtime Legal Chief Retires
Richard Buchband’s successor, Michelle Nettles, was a chief people and diversity officer at Molson Coors Brewing until joining the Milwaukee-based corporation in 2019.
Team Moves
Addleshaw Goddard absorbs Linklaters’ Warsaw office
The 80-lawyer Warsaw office of Linklaters will no longer have an on-the-ground presence in Central and Eastern Europe as a result of Addleshaw Goddard (AG) confirming today that it will open in Poland.
Simpson Thacher taps Willkie Farr for four-partner registered funds team
Citing an increasing client focus on retail market products, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has slapped Willkie Farr & Gallagher for four registered fund partners. Bissie Bonner has relocated to New York, while Anne Choe, Justin Browder, and Neesa Patel Sood have joined the business in Washington, DC.
A&O Shearman IP teams depart for White & Case and Clifford Chance in London and Paris
Two partners and six IP attorneys have left A&O Shearman to work for Clifford Chance and White & Case in London and Paris. Along with Adrian Dykes and Karla Hughes, who both make partner on the move, partner David Stone, the former global head of intellectual property at legacy Allen & Overy, has joined White & Case in London. Meanwhile, Partner David Por, a senior associate, and an associate have relocated from A&O to Paris to work at Clifford Chance.
Korea’s Kim & Chang adds four-lawyer M&A team led by Cleary lifer
The entrance of seasoned partner Sang Jin Han and his colleagues from U.S. firm Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has strengthened the cross-border M&A capabilities of Kim & Chang, the largest law firm in South Korea. A group of M&A associates, including Ji-won Lim, Jae Sung Kim, and Ki Won Ahn, join Han.
As the firm restructures its leadership, Weil is losing at least five partners to three different firms.
Orrick Expands US Energy, Infrastructure Team With A&O Shearman Lawyers
Three new partners have joined Orrick’s Chambers Band 1 Energy platform: Charles “Chase” Armbrust, Jeff Quinn-Cane, and Matthew “Matt” Nesburn. Matt, who joined in Santa Monica, provides tax equity and other credit monetization advice to sponsors, funds, independent power producers, and international energy firms. He also contributes extensive knowledge of energy M&A deals and debt financing. Jeff is a Seattle-based advisor that focuses on tax-driven financings. Chase, who joins in Houston, contributes knowledge of complicated financings in the energy industry, including debt.
DWF Swipes Partner Quartet from Kennedys
By the end of 2024, DWF additionally employed a staff of nine partners in Australia.
Financials:
Law Firms Tweak Compensation to Reward ‘Future Superstars’ and Top-Performers
The most lucrative brands in Big Law continue to place a high premium on acquiring and retaining the best-performing partners. According to analysts, consultants, and business leaders, companies are also attempting to employ “every tool in the toolkit” to maintain the satisfaction of additional ‘middle-of-the-distribution’ partners.
McDermott Crosses $2B in Revenue, Sees PEP Best $4.5M
Even with equity tier growth, McDermott’s average PEP surged by nearly 22%.
Partners at law firm WFW share £44m payout as profit rises
Revenue for the year ending April 30th is increased by the UK-based operation whilst partner pay increased from £37.8M to £44m.
Cahill’s Strategy Shift Contributes to 15% Revenue Gain, 21% PEP Surge
“We made investments in congressional investigations, private credit, intellectual property, and white-collar jobs,” chair Herbert Washer stated. “And everyone made a significant contribution to the outcomes.”
Davis Wright Tremaine Surpasses $600M in Revenue Amid Leadership Transition
The Seattle-headquartered Am Law 100 saw its managing partner step down in 2024. However, that didn’t stand in the way of double-digit increases to revenue and PEP.
Brownstein Revenue Up 9%, as Policy and Lobbying Demand Help Drive Gains
The Denver-based company saw a nearly 21% boost in PEP to $1.36 million.
Before Entering Pacific Northwest, Ballard Spahr Posted Double-Digit Growth in 2024
As a firm, we had a lot going for us. We had all the parts and needed to put them together, so we had to cooperate and work together. The firm chairman, Peter Michaud, who also led a merger with Lane Powell that took effect on January 1, stated, “I gave the partners the call to action, and they answered it.”
Venable’s Revenue Grows 5% Amid Nonequity Tier Expansion
Venable’s gross revenue climbed by more over 5% to $858.2 million in fiscal year 2024, following double-digit percentage growth the year before.
Williams Mullen Grows Revenue 14% and surpasses $1M in PEP
Last year, the Richmond-based company’s revenue climbed 14% to $195.4 million, and its profits per equity partner surged by more than 16% to $1.07 million.
Canadian Associates See First Salary Hikes in Four Years
In Toronto, the largest legal market in the nation, many prestigious firms are increasing base pay to CA$135,000.
Promotions & Appointments:
London Court of International Arbitration names new president
After Paula Hodges KC served as president for six years, Maxi Scherer was named the new president of the London Court of International Arbitration.
Baker McKenzie Global Chair to Step Down as Firm Gears Up for Elections
In order to replace Milton Cheng, whose second term ends later this year, Baker McKenzie is getting ready for elections. The corporation was still in shock over the sudden loss of its previous leader, Paul Rawlinson, when the Singapore-based boss, who had been in charge for six years, took over.
Latham Elevates 19 Counsel to Partner
Following the announcement of its 2025 associate-partner promotions late last year, Latham has promoted 19 of its lawyers to partner status, effective March 1, 2025. According to data from Law.com Compass, the firm’s partnership now stands at just over 900, and the figure will be added to the number of lawyers promoted last year.
Lavelle Partners appoints Georgina Lanigan and Dermot McClean as partners
Georgina Lanigan and Dermot McClean have joined Lavelle Partners LLP as partners.
Mr. McClean is a partner in the firm’s litigation and dispute resolution team, while Ms. Lanigan leads the asset and debt recovery team.
Diversity & Inclusion:
ABA challenges Trump administration’s diversity policies, foreign aid cuts and judicial attacks
President Trump’s “equal merit” executive order, which requires government agencies to push the private sector to stop “illegal” diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, has drawn criticism from the American Bar Association (ABA).
Law Society urges UK government to scrap plans to axe funding for solicitor apprenticeships
Because of the potential effects on social mobility and the profession’s ability to compete globally, the Law Society of England and Wales has urged the government to abandon proposals to cut off public financing for attorney apprenticeships.
Companies Walking on Eggshells Amid Fury Over DEI
Paul Chesser of the National Legal and Policy Center stated, “There is no reason to believe that companies are genuinely eliminating DEI—they are just going to hide it better.”
Office Openings & Closing:
Cleary to shut Beijing arm, joining US law firm exodus from mainland China
According to data, the number of Am Law 100 firms in mainland China has decreased by 25% in the past two years, making Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton the most recent leading US firm to close its Beijing office.
Reed Smith Migrates to Expanded Downtown LA Office
The business, which had remained at its previous site since merging with Crosby Heafey in 2002, required additional space to accommodate its expanding roster of 63 attorneys and 47 employees.
Linklaters Confirms ‘Transfer’ of 80-Lawyer Warsaw Office to Addleshaw Goddard
Although Linklaters left four CEE locations in 2008, it has kept its office in Poland and is currently relocating to Addleshaw Goddard.
Subject to Luxembourg Bar clearance, the business intends to operate its Luxembourg office in early 2025. Tax specialist Jean-Dominique Morelli will join the firm from Maples & Calder, where he is a partner, while funds specialist Joanna Pecenik Vergès d’Espagne and private capital/M&A lawyer Marc Tkatcheff will join from A&O Shearman, where they are now Counsel.
Mergers & Alliances:
Ward Hadaway in merger talks to fuel £75m growth
Ward Hadaway said on Monday that it is considering a merger with commercial law firm The Endeavour Partnership, which would potentially strengthen the current “very close” relationship.
Technology & Innovation:
Legal AI start-up Luminance, backed by Slaughter and May, raises $75m
According to TechCrunch, Luminance has raised $75 million in a Series C fundraising round, making it one of the biggest capital raises by a pure-play legal AI startup in the UK and Europe. Established in 2015 by academics Adam Guthrie (chief technological architect) and Dr. Graham Sills (director of AI) from Cambridge, the start-up reported raising over $115 million in the last 12 months.
OpenAI Fights Copyright Infringement Allegations By Indian Media Giants
Amid a number of similar cases pending in the U.S. and Canada, a group of India’s biggest media outlets have filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against OpenAI. According to the court website, the complaint has been filed before the Delhi High Court, and a hearing is set for March 18.
Condé Nast and Guardian among group accusing Canadian AI start-up of ‘wholesale, verbatim copying’
There is little indication that the conflict between AI start-ups and more established media outlets will end anytime soon. Last week, a dozen prominent news and magazine publishers, including Condé Nast, Forbes, The Atlantic, the LA Times, and the Guardian, filed a lawsuit against AI start-up Cohere in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, claiming copyright and trademark infringement.
There was a lot of apprehension and fear when DeepSeek made its debut on the global scene, particularly because it originated in China. However, legal experts claim that the Gen AI startup’s threat goes beyond geopolitical conflicts.
Anu Bradford Unpacks Threats to the EU’s Digital Regulation Agenda
Other countries may begin to have “second thoughts” if the EU is perceived as losing faith in its own regulatory agenda, she added, adding that such a policy change by Brussels authorities would be particularly foolish given the present atmosphere across the Atlantic.
Linklaters tests AI with legal exams to assess reliability
In order to “test the ability of large language models to answer legal questions,” the company developed the LinksAI English law benchmark. With human adjudicators keeping an eye out for mistakes and manufactured references, the tests evaluate AI systems on overall correctness, citation usage, and clarity.
How Davis Wright Tremaine Is Working with Stanford on Legal AI
The goal of a recent collaboration with the university’s legal informatics department, CodeX, is to develop new legal AI prototypes.
StructureFlow Acquires Diagramming Solution Blue J Diagramming
By acquiring Blue J Diagramming, StructureFlow intends to increase the range of tax visualization services it provides.
Market Commentary:
‘More Transactions that Would Never Have Left Boardroom’: UK Partners Back CMA’s Change of Direction
Competition partners anticipate a rise in M&A activity as a result of the U.K. Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) new strategy. Sarah Cardell, the chief executive of the CMA, stated last week that the regulator will try to make initial merger decisions more quickly and have more senior discussions with businesses in response to pressure from the U.K. government to prioritise “pro-growth and pro-investment interventions.”
London’s Top Corporate Lawyers: The Dealmakers Behind the Big Numbers
According to a new dataset created by MergerLinks, ten partners from London offices have been named top corporate lawyers. The table offers a new perspective on the notable dealmakers in 2024, based on the overall value of transactions reported the previous year and only considering those in which the corresponding solicitors led teams in which their firm served as the major legal counsel.
Freshfields, Davis Polk and a Trio of Spanish Firms Steer Landmark HBX Group in Spanish IPO
Freshfields, Davis Polk, Pérez-Llorca, Garrigues, and Uría Menéndez provided advice on the Spanish IPO of HBX Group, a travel technology company that links business-to-business and business-to-consumer travel distributors and suppliers. According to the participating law firms, the €748 million IPO is the biggest public offering in Europe thus far this year. Additionally, it is the first British company to go public in Spain since Brexit.
US Law Firms Quietly Secure UK ABS Licenses as Arizona Weighs KPMG Bid
Top U.S. headquartered firms are not sitting on the sidelines whilst they eagerly await Arizona’s decision on whether to license KPMG legal US as an alternative business structure (ABS). Instead, they’re taking advantage of the fact that regulators in England have been awarding ABS licenses since 2012.
Saudi Arabia’s Arbitration Power Play: SCCA Challenges Regional Giants
With Saudi Arabia’s $1.8 trillion construction boom driving demand for dispute resolution, the Saudi Centre for Commercial Arbitration (SCCA) is growing quickly with the goal of competing with regional arbitration centres in Cairo and Dubai.
Garrigues and Uría Menéndez Lawyers Top Spain’s M&A Charts in 2024
According to statistics gathered by TTR statistics and MergerLinks, Uría Menéndez and Garrigues partners were named Spain’s top M&A attorneys in 2024.
Hong Kong Has 110 Active IPO Applications. Which Firms Have the Largest Market Share?
The Shenzhen-based electric car battery company Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), which is allegedly seeking to raise $5 billion through a Hong Kong debut—the largest IPO in the city in five years—is leading the group of hopeful issuers by value.
In recent years, a noticeable trend has emerged in the legal market. The relationships between elite firms and their clients have become increasingly robust, creating a level of resilience that challenger firms previously targeted to gain market share. The buzz in the market indicates the gap between elite firms and challenger firms is increasing. The problem for challenger firms is that they are not able to match the scale, deal sheet, or institutional relationships that elite firms possess to maintain client relationships across their global platforms. The adage “nobody gets fired for instructing [insert elite firm name]” holds true in this context.
Bridging the Gap: What It Takes to Compete
To make a significant impact on this trend and compete effectively with elite firms, challenger firms need to focus on several key areas:
There have been several moves in the past 6 months that showcase this – see some select moves below:
Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Kirkland & Ellis
Skadden
Eversheds Sutherland
In conclusion, for challenger firms to bridge the gap and compete with elite firms, they must focus on strengthening client relationships, building credible teams, hiring motivated partners, and maintaining a sustained growth strategy. Only by addressing these areas can they hope to make a noticeable impact in the ever-evolving legal market.
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