Financials:
Kennedys breaches £400m revenue barrier as it eyes becoming a billion-dollar law firm
International specialist insurance firm Kennedys has posted record revenue of £428m, a 13% jump on last year’s results.
CMS boosts NQ solicitor pay in London to £120k
CMS has increased the salaries of its newly qualified (NQ) lawyers in London to £120,000, with regional offices and those in Scotland also seeing salary rises.
Harbottle pushes financials to new heights with revenue and PEP growth
The firm saw turnover rise by 3.7% during the 2024-25 financial year to reach £53.8m, up from last year’s £51.9m. PEP, meanwhile, rose 2% to £756,000 from the 2023-24 figure of £741,000.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Is Pride Month In the Room? Why Brands Are Quietly Abandoning LGBTQ Community This Year
The proposed 2025 federal budget includes $2.67 billion in cuts to programs that directly benefit LGBTQ+ people. Among the most concerning changes are the defunding of gender-affirming healthcare research, significant reductions in HIV/AIDS educational initiatives, the consolidation of HOPWA housing support, the elimination of over 270 LGBTQ+ health research grants, and the termination of justice programs addressing hate crimes.
Standing as a Defense to Claims Challenging Private Employers’ DEI Programs
“In this article, we examine the law of standing and cases addressing how standing principles apply in cases challenging DEI initiatives by private employers.”
Corporate Legal Departments Reevaluate Diversity Tracking Amid Rising Concerns
General Counsels (GCs) are taking a closer look at the legal and reputational risks tied to tracking diversity data, prompting a reassessment of existing practices and a careful balancing of the potential advantages against the associated challenges.
Office Openings & Closing:
Seyfarth Shaw Closes Shanghai Office Amid Strategic Restructuring Efforts
Seyfarth Shaw, an employment-focused law firm, has announced the closing of its Shanghai office, which launched in 2013.
Mergers & Alliances:
Norton Rose Fulbright is to merge its Australian and EMEA financial operations following partner approval, aiming to boost hiring power and align with recent global leadership changes.
Chilean tax boutique Matthei has joined Ontier’s local office, bringing a 12-person team led by Roland and Roger Matthei. The move comes amid rising demand for specialized tax advice in the region.
Crowell merges with life sciences boutique, opens Boston office
Crowell & Moring has merged with dealmaking boutique Faber Daeufer & Itrato, significantly boosting its life sciences and emerging companies capabilities.
HSF’s merger with Kramer Levin goes live
The merger of Anglo-Australian law firm Herbert Smith Freehills and US outfit Kramer Levin was finalised yesterday (1 June), in a landmark tie-up that has created a top 20 global firm by revenue.
Partnering with Legora to enhance legal services through AI innovation
Taylor Wessing has announced a partnership with Legora, the collaborative AI for lawyers, as part of its ongoing commitment to innovation and delivering outstanding client service.
Thai, Korean law firms forge strategic alliance in regional first
Thai law firm Kudun and Partners (KAP) and South Korean firm Jipyong have formed a landmark strategic alliance, marking the first full-scale legal collaboration between firms from Thailand and South Korea.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Simpson Thacher Boosts Secondaries Capabilities With London Partner Hire
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP has announced that Joanne (“Jo”) Mak will be joining the firm as a partner in its London office. She joins from Kirkland & Ellis LLP, where she also served as a partner.
Addleshaw Goddard strengthens Finance Disputes team with high-profile hire
James Moss, former general counsel at the Information Commissioner’s Office, has joined Addleshaw Goddard from Bird & Bird to bolster the firm’s technology practice.
Reed Smith appoints leading financial crime partner in London
Reed Smith today announces the hire of Richard Kovalevsky KC as a partner in its Global Commercial Disputes Group and London office. Kovalevsky joins from Cohen & Gresser.
CM Murray hires employment disputes partner from Edwin Coe in London
UK employment and regulatory law specialist CM Murray has hired employment lawyer Emma Sangeelee from Edwin Coe to bolster its employment disputes practice.
A&L Goodbody appoints Kevin Murphy to lead Northern Ireland real estate team
A&L Goodbody has appointed Kevin Murphy as partner and head of its real estate department in Belfast. He joins from TLT.
The Americas
Spanish firm Ecija has announced the addition of Aldo Cornejo as a partner in its corporate and M&A practice in Lima. Cornejo joins after five years as a partner at Ontier.
Hernández & Cía hires new partner
Gerardo Guzmán, former director of Arbe Abogados, will join Hernández & Cía. as a partner as of June 1.
FisherBroyles Grows International Presence, Adds Three Attorneys in Mexico
Jesús García-Moncada, Rodrigo García-Moncada and Mario Facio Salazar Join Firm’s Mexico City Office. The trio join from law+dgtal.
US boutique DEMC hires luxury law partner from Holland & Knight
Luxury and brand lawyer Danielle Garno has joined US boutique law firm Daniel, Ebeling, Maccia & Cohen from Holland & Knight.
APAC
Malaysia’s Rahmat Lim strengthens disputes practice with new partner
Malaysian law firm Rahmat Lim & Partners has hired Aravind Kumarr. He joins from his own firm, Aravind.
Stephen Putnins, corporate/commercial partner, joins Sparke Helmore from Mills Oakley
Australian law firm Sparke Helmore has announced the addition of Stephen Putnins who joins from Mills Oakley.
A&O Shearman hires partner in Vietnam from local firm YKVN
Global law firm A&O Shearman has announced its recruitment of corporate/M&A expert Hai Nguyen as a partner in Ho Chi Minh City from Vietnamese law firm YKVN
Ashurst nabs Simmons partner to lead Asia employment practice
Global law firm Ashurst has appointed former Simmons & Simmons partner Clarence Ding as its new Asia head of employment, based in Singapore.
MoFo expands Tokyo team with PE hire from White & Case
U.S. law firm Morrison Foerster has strengthened its Tokyo office with the addition of M&A and private equity expert Naoya Shiota, who joins as a partner from rival White & Case.
HSF’s Tony Damian to co-lead Ashurst’s M&A group in Australia
Tony Damian has joined Ashurst to co-lead its M&A team in Australia, making the jump from Herbert Smith Freehills.
Tom Ara has left law firm DLA Piper for Weil, Gotshal & Manges’ L.A.-based entertainment, sports and media practice.
MoFo makes another Asia hire in a week, adds Gibson Dunn funds lawyer
MoFo hires the addition of private funds specialist Xuanyi Liu, who joins as a partner in Singapore from Gibson Dunn & Crutcher.
Jones Day partner moves to Pillsbury
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman has hired energy and real estate finance transactions expert Katsumi Shirai as a partner in Tokyo from Jones Day.
EMEA
Orrick Loses Legal Talent to Rivals in Europe
Among those leaving are energy and infrastructure partner Foucaud Jaulin, who has joined CMS in France.
Akin Grows Investment Management Practice in Abu Dhabi with Addition of Skye Smith
Akin announced today that Skye Smith has joined the firm as a partner in its investment management practice. Smith joins from DLA Piper.
Taylor Wessing welcomes the arrival of partners Rob Hendriks and Michiel Boer who join from Simmons & Simmons.
DayOne Legal + Tax adds new Tax Partner
Peter Van Dijk joins DayOne Legal + Tax from Buren N.V.
In-House
New GC of Ruger Will Help Firearms Maker Resolve Suits Over King Soopers Shooting Spree
Sarah Colbert is taking the legal reins from 23-year company veteran Kevin Reid Sr.
Britvic GC rejoins Ocado to lead legal team
Mollie Stoker, who previously held the role of Deputy General Counsel at Ocado, will rejoin the company after a tenure at Britvic.
Music streaming giant Spotify names interim GC as permanent legal head
Spotify has appointed interim general counsel Kevan Choset to the GC role full time after he stepped up to replace Eve Konstan back in January.
InfraRed Capital Partners Ltd hires new Chief operating officer
James Abbott joins from John Laing where he was General Counsel.
Canada Life UK hires new Senior Legal Counsel
Emma Waters joins Canada Life UK as Senior Legal Counsel from Macfarlanes where she was a
Team Moves
Dechert adds four-lawyer Orrick finance team in London
Partners Sushila Nayak and James Jirtle have joined Dechert from Orrick.
Promotions & Appointments:
CMS appoints new LatAm chair and adds antitrust head in Mexico
International firm CMS has named Juan Carlos Escudero, former managing partner of its Highly Recommended Peruvian office CMS Grau, as the new chair of its Latin America operations. The appointment comes just a day before the firm also brought on a former of counsel from Elite firm Nader, Hayaux & Goebel to lead its antitrust practice in Mexico.
Linklaters Appoints George Casey as Chairman of the Americas
Linklaters is delighted to announce the appointment of George Casey as Chairman of the Americas.
Carney appoints diplomatic heavyweight Marc-André Blanchard to steer PMO
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Sunday that Marc-André Blanchard, an experienced diplomat and legal expert, will become his permanent chief of staff beginning in July.
Lander & Rogers elevates 44 senior lawyers in this year’s batch of promotions
Lander & Rogers shared that its new partners are the following:
Travers Smith promote nine to Partner
Names include James Barnard, Adam Burk, Jaryd Davidson, Elissavet Grout, Nick Glynn, Tom Margesson, Michael O’Brien Kelly, Richard Offord and Ella Sharpley.
Linklaters appoints Andrew Roberts as Chief Communications & Corporate Affairs Officer
Linklaters today announces the appointment of Andrew Roberts as Chief Communications & Corporate Affairs Officer. He joins from fashion and luxury goods company Burberry Group Plc.
The partners include:
Emily Coghlan, Michael D’Agostino, Gabby Herron-Cartwright, Tamanna Islam, Geoff Kerrigan, Madeleine Miller, Eunice Park, Li-Lian Yeo
Six join Moray & Agnew’s partnership in promotions round
The firm’s new partners are Alannah Dewing, Amanda Danti, Emma Petrie, Shaun Jackson, Erin Woodward and Julie Ngan.
DLA Piper confirms appointment of David Cameron as consultant
In his new role, the firm says Cameron will provide strategic guidance, particularly around geopolitical risk, leveraging his decades of experience in international affairs.
Technology & Innovation:
Taylor Wessing Joins Growing List of Law Firms Adopting Swedish AI Platform Firmwide
Taylor Wessing has rolled out the AI platform developed by Swedish company Legora across the firm, following a successful pilot involving more than 80 lawyers across multiple offices. The move aligns Taylor Wessing with other major firms—such as Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, Goodwin Procter, Addleshaw Goddard, and Bird & Bird—that have also adopted the technology.
According to Holding Redlich, the rapid evolution of AI, cybersecurity, and privacy presents emerging legal risks for organizations, making it clear that a ‘set and forget’ approach is no longer viable.
Market Commentary:
Skadden Mulls Non-Equity Tier as Partner Pay Pressure Mounts
Skadden is considering adding a tier of salaried “partners” at the Wall Street law firm, following similar moves by several of its rivals.
Ropes & Gray Explores Nonequity Partnership Tier
Ropes & Gray, currently the world’s 8th largest law firm, is contemplating the introduction of a nonequity partner tier.
Cripps and Michelmores in tie-up talks
Southern England law firms Cripps and Michelmores are in the very early stages of merger talks which, if successful, would create a new legal firm with an annual revenue of around £100 million.
Financials:
Profits Swelled at Hughes Hubbard in 2024, With PEP Up 24%
Hughes Hubbard & Reed saw modest revenue growth in 2024, while profits per equity partner surged by 24.1%, driven by robust demand in litigation, aviation finance, and corporate transactions.
Starting law firm associate pay has been flat since 2023, NALP reports
The median base salary for first-year associates at U.S. law firms remained unchanged over the past two years, holding steady at $200,000, according to the National Association for Law Placement (NALP). This is despite some large firms increasing starting pay to $225,000. The figure reflects data from NALP’s biennial U.S. Associate Salary Survey, last conducted in January 2023 and again in January 2025.
Mattos Filho releases integrated report with 2024 results
Mattos Filho has published the second edition of its integrated report, Pulso, underscoring the firm’s ongoing commitment to transparency with clients, partners, and broader society. The report highlights a robust performance in 2024, with the firm achieving a 14% year-on-year revenue increase, reaching BRL 1.7 billion.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Gender Pay Gap Grows at Largest UK Firms
Recent gender pay gap reports from leading UK law firms—Freshfields, Linklaters, Clifford Chance, and Allen & Overy—reveal notable increases in median gender pay disparities over the past four years.
Goodwin Procter Cuts Recruiter Contract After EEOC Criticism
Goodwin Procter terminated a contract with a recruiting operation following its founder’s critical comments about the law firm’s response to a federal diversity probe.
Bar Standards Board announces about-face on diversity and inclusion proposal
The Bar Standards Board (BSB), which regulates barristers in England and Wales, has shelved a proposal to introduce a core duty requiring barristers to “act in a way that advances equality, diversity and inclusion” following claims it lacked clarity and would be unenforceable.
Office Openings & Closing:
Data Protection Commission opens new HQ in Dublin
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan attended the official opening of the Data Protection Commission’s (DPC) new headquarters in Dublin yesterday.
Eversheds ditches Irish merger plans, and will go it alone instead
Eversheds Sutherland has decided to abandon its proposed merger with Irish law firm William Fry and will instead establish its own operations in Ireland. The firm plans to open new offices in Dublin and Belfast this September, aiming to launch with up to 20 partners as part of its international expansion strategy.
Taylor Wessing Expands into Shenzhen, Reshapes China Presence
In a move to strengthen its presence in China’s high-tech sector, Taylor Wessing will open a new office in Shenzhen by 2026.
KNM & Partners Expands Regional Presence with New Chandigarh Office
KNM & Partners has opened a new office in Chandigarh, marking a significant step in its regional expansion. The move aims to strengthen the firm’s legal service footprint across Punjab and Haryana.
Simmons & Simmons officially opens Riyadh office with disputes partner at helm
Simmons & Simmons has officially launched its Riyadh office, marking its expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The office will be led by disputes partner Amer Al Amr, who brings over 25 years of legal experience in the country. First announced in January 2024, the office is now fully operational.
Mergers & Alliances:
Wolters Kluwer to acquire global legal software provider Brightflag
Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory has announced its agreement to acquire Brightflag, a cloud-based provider of AI-powered legal spend and matter management software, for approximately €425 million in cash.
Pérez-Llorca furthers LatAm ambitions with landmark Colombia merger
Spanish law firm Pérez-Llorca is set to enter the Colombian legal market through a merger with leading local firm Gómez-Pinzón, marking the first such union between a top-tier Colombian firm and an Ibero-American counterpart.
Thomson Geer to nab Ashurst’s Canberra office in July
Ashurst has announced that its Canberra office will officially join Thomson Geer in early July 2025, marking a significant strategic move for both firms.
CMS establishes presence in Indian market with IndusLaw alliance
Global legal powerhouse CMS has announced that Indian law firm IndusLaw will join its network.
HSF, Kramer Levin complete combination into Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer
Herbert Smith Freehills and Kramer Levin have completed their combination into Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer as of 1 June.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Addleshaw Goddard strengthens Finance Disputes team with high-profile hire
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has appointed experienced financial services disputes specialist James Southworth as a Partner in its Finance Disputes team. James joins from Eversheds.
Denise Hunt appointed to Northern Ireland Social Care Council
Barrister Denise Hunt BEM has been named a non-executive member of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC).
Pillsbury adds Corporate Tech Partner Sarah Melaney
Pillsbury has recruited Sarah Melaney to join its London office. She joins from Withers.
Employment partner appointment at MFG Solicitors
Tim is a Partner within the nationally recognised Employment Team at mfg Solicitors LLP. He joined the firm after more than 20 years at George Green LLP.
Pinsent Masons hopes to bolster firm’s Aberdeen offering with new hires
Energy sector specialist Chris Sawyer has joined the firm’s corporate team from EnQuest while former Burness Paull director Gillian Harrington joins as a partner to lead the employment team.
Cadwalader strengthens London team with Crowley
Cadwalader has welcomed top infrastructure lawyer Rebecca Crowley as a partner in its London office. She joins from Latham and Watkins.
Shakespeare Martineau strengthens regulatory offering with partner hire
Shakespeare Martineau has hired Kamal Chauhan who joins the firm from Knights.
The Americas
EY legal heavyweight Monica Gogna leads team to Squire Patton Boggs
EY legal partner Monica Gogna is leading a five-lawyer team to join US law firm Squire Patton Boggs.
Global law firm Clifford Chance has bolstered its U.S. Funds & Investment Management practice with the addition of partner Charles (Chase) B. Tanenbaum, who joins from Kirkland & Ellis.
Simpson Picks Up Partners From Cravath, Kirkland and White & Case in Lateral Spree
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has announced the addition of four new partners over the past week, Among them is Jana Hymowitz, an executive compensation partner who joins from Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York.The firm also welcomed Anat Holtzman, a private funds partner from global investment firm Carlyle in Washington, D.C.; Fern Han, a finance partner focused on project, energy, and infrastructure transactions, from White & Case in Houston; and John Ilardo, a banking and credit partner from Kirkland & Ellis in Boston.
Gibson Dunn is pleased to announce that Andrew W. Cheng has rejoined the firm’s Los Angeles office as a partner in the Business Restructuring and Reorganization Practice Group and the Liability Management and Special Situations Practice Group. He joins after three years at Goodwin.
Winston & Strawn Welcomes Michael Kimberly as Co-Chair of the Appellate & Critical Motions Practice
Winston & Strawn LLP has announced that Michael Kimberly has joined its Washington, D.C. office as co-chair of the Appellate & Critical Motions Practice. He arrives from McDermott Will & Emery.
Leading M&A Lawyers Graham Robinson, Laura Knoll and Chadé Severin Join Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis has announced the addition of leading M&A attorneys Graham Robinson, Laura Knoll, and Chadé Severin as partners. The trio, who specialize in public company M&A with a strong focus on the biotechnology sector, join the firm from Skadden.
Texas Lawyer: O’Melveny Expands Energy Team in Houston With Bradley Practice Co-Chair
O’Melveny has announced that prominent Texas trial lawyer Meghan McElvy has joined the firm’s Houston office as a partner in its General Litigation Practice Group and Energy Industry Group. She joins from Bradley Arant Boult Cummings.
Freshfields Adds Silicon Valley M&A Partner From Debevoise
Freshfields has hired former Debevoise & Plimpton partner Aly Love as co-head of its U.S. Tech & Life Sciences M&A practice. She will be based in the firm’s Bay Area offices.
Morris Manning Exits Continue as Health Care Duo Jumps to Bradley Arant in Atlanta
Partners Michele Madison and George Reinhardt are the latest additions to Bradley’s two-year-old Atlanta office.
US boutique DEMC hires luxury law partner from Holland & Knight
Danielle Garno moves to sports and entertainment firm Daniel, Ebeling, Maccia & Cohen from Holland & Knight.
APAC
Addisons adds Brigid Clark as employment and workplace relations partner
Addisons, a Sydney-based full-service commercial law firm, has announced the appointment of Brigid Clark as a partner in its employment and workplace relations practice. She joins from Macpherson Kelley.
Penningtons adds banking expert from WongPartnership
UK law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper has further expanded its Singapore office with the hire of banking and finance partner Zhi Chao Chor from WongPartnership.
Anand Kumar Joins ADP Law Offices as Partner
Anand Kumar has joined ADP Law Offices as a partner, reflecting the firm’s strategic focus on deepening its expertise in corporate finance and regulatory advisory. He joins from Deloitte.
Leading Vietnamese lawyer Hai Nguyen joins A&O Shearman
A&O Shearman is pleased to announce the appointment of Hai Nguyen. Nguyen joins from YKVN.
EMEA
Greenberg Traurig and Simmons & Simmons make key partner hires in Saudi Arabia
Greenberg Traurig has hired Dr. Yazid AlMasoud as a partner in Riyadh from Z&Co., strengthening its public policy and regulatory offering. Simmons & Simmons has added Umera Ali as a partner from Dentons, where she led the Saudi banking practice.
Al Tamimi taps Clyde & Co for tax partner
Al Tamimi & Company has bolstered its tax practice in Dubai with the hire of Rachel Fox from Clyde & Co, where she led the Middle East tax team.
In-House
Brandon Barkhuff named as new NV Energy president and CEO
NV Energy announced that Brandon Barkhuff will succeed Cannon as the new president and CEO of the utility. Before stepping into the top executive role, Barkhuff served as general counsel.
Nil Loy Joins Feed the Children
Feed the Children has announced the appointment of Nil Loy as its new Chief Legal OfficerShe joins from Population Services International and HealthX Partners Incorporated, where she most recently served as General Counsel.
US nuclear power innovator Terrestrial Energy hires GC ahead of public listing
US nuclear reactor business Terrestrial Energy has hired Brian Romanzo as general counsel ahead of its transition to become a publicly-listed company.
Children’s book publishing giant Scholastic appoints first new GC in 17 years
The world’s largest children’s book publisher and distributor Scholastic has promoted Chris Lick to general counsel, replacing Andrew Hedden who is retiring from the role.
Team Moves
Kirkland & Ellis has announced the addition of 13 litigation partners, led by nationally recognized product liability and mass tort litigator Kristen Fournier, prominent trial lawyers Kim Bueno and Morty Dubin, and environmental and mass tort specialist John Ewald. They join from King & Spalding, along with nine additional partners across New York, Austin, Houston, and Los Angeles.
Paul Hastings Adds Preeminent 5-Partner Real Estate Team in Los Angeles
Paul Hastings has further strengthened its elite real estate practice with the addition of partners DJ Moore, Beth Gordie, Winston Stromberg, Benjamin Hanelin, and Lauren Paull in Los Angeles. The group joins from Latham & Watkins.
Pierson Ferdinand Continues Rapid Growth with Four Partner Appointments
PierFerd continues its strategic expansion with the addition of several experienced attorneys across key U.S. markets. Priscilla O. Arthus joins the firm’s Houston office from Polsinelli. In Florida, Nicole Llopis comes aboard from Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker LLP. Thomas O’Grady joins as a Partner in Princeton, New Jersey from Goldberg Segalla LLP and Porzio, Bromberg & Newman. Additionally, Tom C. Vincent II strengthens the firm’s Cyber, Privacy & Technology and Banking and Financial Services practices, joining from full-service firm GableGotwals.
Pinsents snaps up IP team from Deloitte Legal
Pinsent Masons has strengthened it’s IP practice with the hire of a NINE strong team from Deloitte Legal in London; 3 partners, 1 legal director and 5 associates.
Promotions & Appointments:
K&L Gates Announces New Leadership Team
The firm has appointed Stacy Ackermann as its new Global Managing Partner and Rick Giovannelli as Co-Chair of the Management Committee.
Withers names private client disputes partner as new chair
Paul Hewitt to succeed Justine Markovitz at helm of private client powerhouse on 1 July 2025.
Technology & Innovation:
364,000 Impacted by Data Breach at LexisNexis Risk Solutions
LexisNexis Risk Solutions has disclosed a significant data breach affecting over 364,000 individuals. The breach occurred on December 25, 2024, but was not detected until April 1, 2025.
Inside Garrigues’ Plans to Diversify Its Income Through Its Digital Business g-digital
The law firm has also launched its own generative AI platform, Garrigues GAIA.
Herbert Smith Freehills releases free global AI tracker
Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF), a global law firm, has launched a new free AI-powered tool designed to help clients keep track of rapidly evolving artificial intelligence policies and regulations around the world.
AI integration in the legal sector
As O’Keeffe succinctly observes, “As the technology evolves, so must we. AI will never replace lawyers, but it will change what we do, how we do it…’
Market Commentary:
Hundreds of lawyers call for UK sanctions on Israel over Gaza war
Hundreds of UK-based and qualified lawyers, including former Supreme Court justices, have urged the UK government to take stronger action to help end the conflict in Gaza. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Monday, 828 legal professionals called for the government to use “all available means”—including reviewing trade relations with Israel and imposing sanctions and travel bans on Israeli ministers.
UK GCs say they will keep more work in-house as cost pressures bite
More than half of UK in-house lawyers plan to reduce reliance on external counsel over the next five years, according to Thomson Reuters’ 2025 State of the UK Legal Market report. The survey reveals that 54% of in-house legal teams expect to bring more work in-house, while only 35% of law firms anticipate this shift—highlighting a potential disconnect in expectations between clients and their legal service providers.
What’s Behind Eversheds’ Growth in Europe’s Benelux Region?
A regional approach, rather than a country-specific focus, has been instrumental to Eversheds’ growth in Europe’s Benelux countries
Financials:
As Dell Hits Groove, GC’s Pay Soars 63%
Pay for Dell Technologies General Counsel Richard Rothberg ballooned last year, thanks to stock grants the maker of computer hardware awards every three years.
Shoosmiths’ revenue grew by 6 percent to £206.7 million, Linklaters also reported record-breaking results with firm revenues exceeded £2 billion for the first time, and Weightmans with income surpassing £140 million for 2023/24.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Pathetic or Pragmatic? GCs Respond as Big Law Backtracks on DEI
Some GCs expressed concerns that if law firms won’t stand up for their own DEI policies, it bodes badly for their willingness to stand up for their clients.
Dentons law firm celebrates zero per cent gender pay gap
The Australia arm of global law firm Dentons has announced that it is the first large law firm in the country to obtain a zero per cent median gender pay gap.
Trump’s FCC leader threatens to kill mergers over DEI policies
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr told Bloomberg that he’s not inclined to approve deals involving companies with pro-diversity initiatives.
Office Openings & Closing:
Cleary to shutter Frankfurt office after 34 years
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is set to close its Frankfurt office in November, bringing an end to its presence in Germany’s business capital after 34 years.
Bird & Bird Middle East is growing with a new office in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
UAE’s Habib Al Mulla establishes Delhi foothold
UAE-based powerhouse Habib Al Mulla & Partners has launched its fifth international office in New Delhi, signaling a strategic move to capitalize on the expanding legal services corridor between India and the Gulf amid rising bilateral trade volumes.
Ex-A&O leaders launch consultancy for PE investment in law
Two former senior partners of the legacy UK Magic Circle firm Allen & Overy have launched a consultancy focused on advising private equity investors on opportunities within the legal sector.
Mergers & Alliances:
Ashurst’s Canberra office to join Thomson Geer
Global law firmAshurst and leading Australian firm Thomson Geer have announced that Ashurst’s Canberra office will transition to Thomson Geer. The office will officially become part of Thomson Geer in early July 2025.
The team making the move includes seven partners: Rob Andersen, Mathew Baldwin, Melanie McKean, Steve McKinney, Sarah Ross-Smith, Elissa Speight, and Angela Summersby.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Leading M&A dealmaker heads back to A&O Shearman
A&O Shearman is pleased to announce that leading dealmaker George Knighton is returning to the firm from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP.
Digital disputes heavyweight James Hyde joins Addleshaw Goddard
International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has further strengthened its commercial disputes team with the appointment of James Hyde as Partner in its Leeds office. Hyde joins from Eversheds Sutherland.
Norton Rose Fulbright hires arbitration partner from Howard Kennedy in London
Norton Rose Fulbright has hired arbitration partner Duncan Bagshaw as a partner from Howard Kennedy.
A&L Goodbody recruits Clare Cashin as construction partner
A&L Goodbody has appointed Clare Cashin as a partner in its construction and engineering practice. Cashin joins from Philip Lee.
The Americas
Weil Continues Growth in Corporate Practices, Adding Real Estate Partner Jessica Pillai
Jessica joins from Kirkland & Ellis LLP, where she was a partner in the Real Estate Practice Group.
Barley Snyder Adds Employee Benefits Attorney Nikolajs Gaikis to Lancaster Office
Prior to joining Barley Snyder, Gaikis served as an Honors Program Attorney with the IRS, Office of Chief Counsel in its Litigation & Advisory division where he litigated and advised on cases across a wide range of issues in the U.S. Tax Court.
Withers adds prominent tech litigator Jessica Nall in California
Jess joins Withers from Baker McKenzie
Paul Hastings Boosts Market-Leading Global Finance Practice on West Coast
Jeffrey Senac has joined the firm as a partner in Southern California from Latham & Watkins.
Sheppard Mullin Adds Securities Litigator In San Francisco
Partner Joshua Hess Deepens Firm’s Capabilities in Northern California. Hess joins from Dechertt.
Former White House Counsel Gregory Craig Joins Foley Hoag
Foley Hoag is pleased to announce that Gregory Craig, former White House Counsel for President Barack Obama, is joining the firm’s Washington, D.C. office.
Cooley Taps Lyndsey Kruzer as Employment Partner in Boston
Lyndsey Kruzer joins Cooley’s Boston office as a partner in the firm’s labor and employment practice and global litigation department. Kruzer joins from Choate.
APAC
The additions include Jennifer Ng from Davis Polk & Wardwell, Jenny Ho, also from Davis Polk, Xu Zheng from Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, and Weina Guan from A&O Shearman.
Tony O’Malley Joins Kain Lawyers
Tony O’Malley, the former global head of PwC Legal, has joined Kain Lawyers, a boutique transactions firm in Australia, as a non-executive director.
HK firm Howse Williams welcomes TMT partner from K&L Gates
Hong Kong law firm Howse Williams has expanded its technology, media and telecommunications offering with the hire of Paul Haswell as a partner from U.S. law firm K&L Gates.
EMEA
Bird & Bird add Energy Partner in Amsterdam
Matthijs van Leeuwen joins Bird & Bird as a new partner in our Energy & Utilities team in Amsterdam.
Baker McKenzie Bolsters German M&A Team with Key Hire from Gibson Dunn
Baker McKenzie is bolstering its German M&A and private equity practice with the addition of Jan Schubert, a former partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. Schubert will join the firm’s Frankfurt office on June 1, enhancing its global M&A and corporate transactions expertise.
Alfonso Lamadrid Joins Latham’s Powerhouse Antitrust Practice in Brussels
Latham & Watkins LLP is pleased to announce that Alfonso Lamadrid will join the Brussels office as a partner in the Antitrust & Competition Practice and a member of the Litigation & Trial Department. Lamadrid joins from Garrigues.
In-House
Starling Strengthens Leadership Team with New General Counsel
Monica Risam has been named Group General Counsel, succeeding Matt Newman. A dual-qualified US and UK attorney with deep financial-services expertise, she joins Starling from Lombard International Group, where she served as Group General Counsel and Company Secretary.
US’s second largest bookstore chain Books-A-Million hires second GC in a year
US bookstore chain Books-A-Million has rehired Catherine Hogewood as general counsel, seven years after she previously held that position. Hogewood joins from Marsh McLennan.
Dentons construction lawyer joins Drake & Scull as general counsel
Ahmed El-Bayouk has been appointed general counsel and head of legal at the company as it embarks on a new chapter following a successful restructuring. He joins from Dentons’ Dubai office.
Team Moves
Reed Smith hires A&O Shearman trio across Singapore, Hong Kong
A&O Shearman’s joint Singapore managing partner, Tim Beech, has transitioned to the US firm along with newly promoted partner Regina Lui and an associate, strengthening its global corporate trust team.
Paul Hastings adds two more White & Case partners in energy and infrastructure push
M&A lawyer Stefan Mrozinski and projects lawyer Habeeb Rahman are the latest of seven partners the firm has hired for the practice across Abu Dhabi, Paris and London since the start of last month, six of them from White & Case.
4 major partners exit Paul, Weiss after Trump deal
The departures include Karen Dunn, Jeannie Rhee, Jessica Phillips, William Isaacson.
Promotions & Appointments:
Tríona Walsh has been promoted to of counsel specialising in insurance litigation, while Ed Kelly has been promoted to associate solicitor specialising in employment litigation.
Changes to Cabinet and Other Appointments
The Prime Minister of Singapore has announced his Cabinet line-up and other appointments.
Derville Rowland joins new EU authority for anti-money laundering
Derville Rowland, deputy governor for consumer and investor protection at the Central Bank of Ireland, has been appointed to the executive board of the EU’s newly-established Anti-Money Laundering Authority.
Technology & Innovation:
Theo Ai, an AI-powered litigation prediction platform, has secured a $4.2 million seed round just six months after announcing its $2.2 million pre-seed funding in November. The round was co-led by returning backer NextView Ventures and new investor Collide Capital.
German legaltech startup Noxtua snaps $92M to develop Europe’s sovereign AI
Noxtua, a German startup previously known as Xayn, is entering the market with an ambitious goal: to develop sovereign, domain-specific legal AI tailored to meet the rigorous standards of the German legal system.
Definely enters legal AI agent race with new contract review tool
Legal tech startup Definely has launched its own agentic AI product, marking the UK-founded company’s move into one of the most competitive frontiers in the legal AI space.
AI, art and the law: new frontiers in creativity and IP
AI’s growing role in art creation and curation raises some of the industry’s most important IP issues.
House of Lords demands more protection for copyright holders against AI
The UK government has been defeated for a third time in the House of Lords as it demands increased protection for copyright-protected works used by AI models.
Market Commentary:
Former UK prime minister David Cameron in talks to join DLA Piper
The talks, first reported by the Financial Times, could see Cameron take on an advisory role at the firm focused on geopolitical risk.
Sinn Féin bill would end Irish role in sale of Israeli bonds
Legislation banning the Central Bank of Ireland from facilitating the sale of Israeli bonds across the European Union has been proposed by Sinn Féin.
UAE litigants in London Commercial Courts hits record high, overtaking US, Russia and Switzerland
The UAE has become the second most active foreign jurisdiction in London’s Commercial Courts, according to a new report, overtaking the US, Russia, and Switzerland for the first time.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
John Small joins Marsh as head of private equity, M&A and transactional risk
Lawyer John Small has joined insurance broker and risk advisor Marsh as head of private equity, M&A, and transactional risk in Ireland.
Squire Patton Boggs appoints Jason O’Donnell to lead real estate practice
Mr. O’Donnell, who joins from A&L Goodbody, brings over ten years of experience advising on complex real estate transactions both in Ireland and internationally.
BCLP adds London partners from A&O Shearman, Taylor Wessing
Lerika Le Grange, with expertise in corporate finance, leveraged and acquisition finance, and litigation funding, has joined the firm from Taylor Wessing. At the same time, Simon Letherman, the longtime leader of legacy Shearman & Sterling’s London tax practice, has transitioned from A&O Shearman.
APAC
Simpson Thacher Hires Restructuring Partner as Dechert Closes China Offices
U.S. law firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has hired restructuring expert Daniel Margulies as a partner in its Hong Kong office from Dechert, which shuttered its office in the Chinese city last year.
Squire Patton Boggs Hires Private Equity Lawyer in Sydney
Private capital is growing quickly in Australia. SQB have hired James Nguyen from Allens.
Former KWM and PwC Legal Leader Tony O’Malley Joins Australian Transaction Boutique
Kain Lawyers have enhanced their Board with the appointment of Tony O’Malley as an independent Non-Executive Director, adding significant global expertise in business transformation and growth.
Alexander Danne will join the firm’s partnership from law firm Gilbert+Tobin, where he founded and led the firm’s energy and infrastructure team.
Addleshaws bolsters SG office with construction disputes hire from Eldan
UK law firm Addleshaw Goddard has named construction and commercial disputes lawyer Danna Er as partner in its Singapore office, joining from Singapore construction specialist Eldan Law.
EMEA
Linklaters Secures First German Addition for Compliance Advisory Arm
The former chief compliance officer at Vitesco Technologies is joining the firm’s Munich office as European director of its global non-legal services team.
Bird & Bird hires three new partners into international Corporate Group
International law firm Bird & Bird is advancing its ambitious growth strategy by appointing Dr. Sebastian Weller, Shahin Foroughian, and Matthijs van Leeuwen as partners in its global Corporate Group. Sebastian joined the Düsseldorf office on May 1, Shahin started in Singapore on May 5, and Matthijs is set to join the Amsterdam office on May 15.
The Americas
Morgan Lewis Financial Services Duo Jumps to Sidley Austin
Partners David Monteiro and Kristin Lee have joined the firm in Dallas and New York City, respectively.
Akin Adds Real Estate Funds, Infrastructure M&A Duo from Mayer Brown in Chicago
Wendy Dodson Gallegos and Jason Wagenmaker have joined Sidley Austin as partners in respective practices.
Clifford Chance Expands Energy, Infrastructure Finance Team in Houston
Former Cheniere Energy executive joins the firm’s Houston office, bringing deep LNG and energy transition financing experience.
Polsinelli Sports Practice Group Leader Moves to Barnes & Thornburg In Nashville
Tim Browne, a seasoned attorney with a background in sports and entertainment and a former NBA Vice President, has joined Barnes & Thornburg in Nashville.
Milbank Hires Cleary Partner to Boost Latin America Practice
Adam Brenneman, a New York-based banking and finance partner, has departed Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton after nearly 20 years to begin a new chapter at Milbank.
Sheppard Mullin Adds New CIO From Cadwalader
Sheppard Mullin, an Am Law 100 firm, has appointed David Lampert as its new Chief Information Officer in New York, succeeding Britton Choi. In his new role, Lampert will lead a 90-person team responsible for information governance and records, network infrastructure, support systems, software training, project management, and data operations.
Davis Wright Adds Longtime Knobbe Martens IP Duo In Seattle
Maria Anderson and Mauricio Uribe joined Davis Wright Tremaine as intellectual property partners in Seattle, the firm announced Wednesday.
Restructuring Partner Returns to A&O Shearman From Schulte
Ned Schodek, who spent nearly two decades at Shearman & Sterling before its merger with Allen & Overy, is now returning to A&O Shearman after serving as a partner at Schulte Roth & Zabel.
Cooley Recruits Former Troutman Pepper Fintech Practice Lead in New York
James Kim spent over three years at Troutman Pepper Locke, where he led the financial technology advisory group.
Alston & Bird Corporate Debt Finance Partner Jumps to Polsinelli in Dallas
Stacie Cargill, who joined Polsinelli as a partner in Dallas in the capital markets and commercial lending practice, sees opportunity to expand her practice and the firm’s by cross-selling Polsinelli clients.
Dorsey Taps Minneapolis Banking Industry Lawyer as New Managing Partner
Minneapolis partner Peter Nelson, set to become Dorsey & Whitney’s managing partner on July 1, is a policy committee member who played a key role in integrating the firm’s Dallas and Phoenix offices.
Polsinelli Onboards Real Estate Partner From Latham & Watkins in Los Angeles
Matthew Friedrich joined the firm following nearly three years at Latham & Watkins’ Los Angeles office.
Pierson Ferdinand Launches Latin America Practice
The practice will be headed by Miami-based arbitration partner Yine Rodríguez Pérez, one of over 130 attorneys who departed FisherBroyles to establish the new firm.
In-House
Johns Hopkins Hires Former White House Counsel for Biden as GC
Johns Hopkins University has appointed former White House Counsel Tiffany Wright to help address the complex legal challenges facing higher education.
Photoshop-maker Adobe taps streaming platform Roku for next legal chief
US software giant Adobe has appointed Louise Pentland as its chief legal officer, succeeding Gloria Chen, who served as interim legal head since late last year following the departure of former general counsel Dana Rao.
DLA Piper’s Former Singapore Office Head Leaves for In-House Role
In May of last year, Joseph Bauerschmidt stepped down as Singapore managing partner after nearly a decade but continued to play an active role in the firm’s corporate practice. He has now joined Digital Edge DC.
Team Moves
Reed Smith Takes Corporate Trust Team from A&O Shearman in Singapore, Hong Kong
The team is headed by Tim Beech, formerly a partner and co-head of A&O Shearman’s Singapore practice.
Ashurst Hires Two-Lawyer White-Collar Team from Eversheds Paris to Strengthen Cross-Border Practice
Partner Alexis Werl led Eversheds’ Paris white collar crime and investigations team, following a similar position at McDermott Will & Emery.
Sidley unveils triple partner raid on Weil in London private funds push
The group is led by Ed Gander, Weil’s global co-head of private funds and head of its London private funds practice. Joining him in the coming weeks will be partners Stephen Fox and Peter Boulle, also from Weil’s private funds team.
Financials:
Cooley’s London Leaders Optimistic Despite Exits, Shrinking Revenue
Despite a turbulent 2024, the firm’s London office remains ambitious as it marks its 10th anniversary.
Revenue Table: US Firms’ London Growth Continues at Pace
An analysis of 26 U.S. firms’ U.K. revenue reveals that most American firms are seeing double-digit growth in their London operations.
Promotions & Appointments:
Mason Hayes & Curran appoints three partners and seven of counsel
The business law firm has welcomed new partners: Andrew Gill in debt capital markets and financial services, Conor O’Leary in dispute resolution and built environment, and Micheál McCarthy in data and technology.
Nine appointments including five new partners at Hayes solicitors
Hayes Solicitors has appointed five new partners, three senior associates, and one associate. The new partners are Pamela Fitzpatrick and Gill Cotter in commercial and business, Michael Kelly in commercial litigation and dispute resolution, Fergal Mullins in healthcare, and Owen Burke in private client.
HSF names new executive partner for UK, EMEA ahead of Kramer merger
Jeremy Walden will assume leadership of the Anglo-Australian firm’s 270-partner UK and EMEA network starting June 1st.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Two centuries of the Law Society: from exclusion to inclusion
Law Society president Richard Atkinson writes that a diverse legal profession more accurately represents the society it serves.
Office Openings & Closing:
Sorrels Law is growing both its presence and leadership by opening a new office in the port city of Beaumont, Texas, led by seasoned maritime attorney David James.
Eckert Seamans Launches in NYC With 11-Lawyer Lateral Group
Pittsburgh-based Eckert Seamans is expanding into New York by bringing in 11 attorneys from Hawkins Parnell & Young.
Aussie firm Wotton Kearney to expand in SE Asia with Bangkok office
Australian law firm Wotton Kearney, specializing in insurance and risk, is planning to grow its footprint with a new office in Thailand—its second in Southeast Asia and eleventh globally.
U.S. law firm Fisher Phillips opens second international office in Tokyo
U.S. labour and employment law firm Fisher Phillips has opened a Tokyo office, marking its second international location after launching in Mexico in 2023.
Mergers & Alliances:
Morae Global Corporation Acquires Information Governance Platform Gimmal
Morae Global Corporation hopes to improve its information management tools and expand its technology offerings.
Anaqua Acquires UK-Based IP Management Services Provider RightHub
After acquiring RightHub, Anaqua plans to strengthen its presence in the EMEA region and broaden its legal management technology portfolio.
McDermott and Schulte, With Merger Vote Within Months, Plan for Top NY Office
The merged firm would boast one of the largest law offices in Manhattan, matching many Wall Street firms in terms of headcount.
Technology & Innovation:
Dentons Launches Internally Developed AI Tool DAISY Across Europe
The launch of DAISY marks the newest step in Dentons’ broader AI strategy for Europe.
Beyond the Logo: How AI Complicates Trademark Protection In the Digital Age
Nowadays, building brands just by offering a different product or service is no longer sustainable. New and improved features or benefits are rapidly outpaced by competitors. As a result, brands demonstrate their category leadership not through logical claims but by cultivating a unique persona—a distinct “ness” made up of specific traits and behaviors that create an exclusive brand essence hard for rivals to copy.
How an AI-First Law Firm in the UK Received Historic SRA Approval
Garfield.Law co-founder and CEO Philip Young discusses the firm’s milestone as the first AI-driven law firm to gain regulatory authorization, shares insights on the future of the legal industry, and explores the role of generative AI in the U.K. legal landscape.
Market Commentary:
The Successful Mediation of a Family Business Dispute
As with any mediation, the first question a skilled mediator should address is: what are the parties aiming to achieve? Are they working toward making the business successful, looking to facilitate a fair and orderly dissolution, or pursuing an intermediate goal—such as buying out a family member who no longer wants to be involved in the business?
Dutch and German Lawyers Sound Alarm Over Trump Pro Bono Deals with BigLaw
Regulators in the Netherlands and Germany are expressing concerns about U.S. law firms’ pro bono work for Trump, citing potential ripple effects and implications for legal independence in critical European markets.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
A&O Shearman Suffers Another Partner Departure as Paul Weiss Continues London Expansion
An analysis by Law.com last month revealed that A&O Shearman had seen the departure of 60 partners over the past eight months. They have experienced yet another defection as partner Nick Charlwood leaves the firm’s restructuring team to join Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison in London.
Linklaters Strengthens Leveraged Finance Team with Hires from Latham & Watkins, Paul Hastings
The partners are set to join the London office, following the firm’s addition of another partner in April. Peter Hayes and Angel Quek will join the firm to further bolster the Leveraged Finance practice.
US Firms Continue London Expansion in Latest London Hires
Akin has revealed two lateral hires just this week.
Paul Weiss Hits A&O Shearman for Second Partner Hire in 24 Hours
Paul Weiss Poaches Second Partner from A&O Shearman Within 24 Hours. They have recruited digital infrastructure partner Tom Levine.
Erc Walsh joins RDJ as real estate partner in Galway
RDJ has appointed Eric Walsh as a partner in the firm’s real estate and finance practice.
APAC
Asia Pacific Moves: HSF, Maddocks, Yoon & Yang and Wilson Sonsini Keep Markets Abuzz with New Hires
The Australian legal market remains active with ongoing lateral partner moves. Over in Asia, Yoon & Yang has recruited senior tax partners from a Big Six competitor, while Wilson Sonsini is taking steps to rebuild after recent partner departures.
Orrick Hires Another A&O Shearman Partner for Singapore Outfit
Energy and infrastructure specialist Adam Moncrieff has been brought as a partner from A&O Shearman. Moncrieff will relocate to Singapore from Vietnam. Orrick also brought on two additional energy and projects lawyers from A&O Shearman’s Jakarta office last year.
Third Australian Legal Regulator Leaves for Private Practice
Finance and investment regulator, Michael Hershan joins MintterEllison.
Jakarta: Former WCA managing partner joins ALTA Advocates
Kristo Molina, formerly the managing partner of Witara Cakra Advocates (WCA), White & Case’s erstwhile Indonesia association firm, has moved to local outfit ALTA Advocates as a partner in the capital markets practice.
Birds boosts SG corporate offering with hire from NRF
International law firm Bird & Bird has welcomed corporate lawyer Shahin Foroughian as a partner in Singapore from Norton Rose Fulbright, where he was a counsel.
HK: Wilson Sonsini welcomes capital markets partner from Davis Polk
U.S. law firm Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati has grown its corporate offering in Hong Kong with the hire of Yang Chu as a partner at Davis Polk & Wardwell.
Ropes expands PE offering in Hong Kong with hire from Freshies
U.S. law firm Ropes & Gray has welcomed private equity expert Richard Perks as a partner in its private equity practice in Hong Kong from Freshfields, where he had spent the entirety of his two-decade-long legal career.
EMEA
Kirkland Builds Luxembourg Capability with Partner Hire from Local Firm
Thibaut Partsch is set to join the firm’s London office, where they will concentrate on advising clients utilizing Luxembourg-based structures.
Paul Hastings Adds Another Key White & Case Partner to Abu Dhabi Team in Strategic Power Play
Paul Hastings is bolstering its energy and infrastructure practice in Abu Dhabi by hiring Ibaad Hakim the fourth partner from White & Case, following the recent departure of three of its London partners to Freshfields in a notable reshuffle of top-tier talent.
Greenberg Traurig and Simmons Hire Key Banking Partners in MidEast Shake-Up
Greenberg Traurig scooped up Alex Roussos a top banking partner from Dentons and three more capital markets lawyers are expected to join within weeks.
The Americas
Baker McKenzie Adds Dispute Muscle in Colombia
María Angélica Burgos de la Ossa has rejoined the firm as a partner after running her own boutique practice, while Sebastián Quintero has been elevated to partner.
Akin Adds Two Ex-Government Lawyers to DC International Trade Team
Matthew Borman and Eileen Albanese, both longtime veterans of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), joined Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld on Monday as part of the firm’s expansion of its international trade practice.
Polsinelli Adds Energy, Infrastructure Finance Partner in San Francisco
Robert Nelson Jr. joins the firm after five years at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman.
Taft Adds Fintech Leader From Nelson Mullins in 2-Partner Move
Denver-based attorneys Richard B. Levin and Bobby Wenner come to Taft Stettinius & Hollister from Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, where Levin served as chair of the fintech practice.
Foley Adds 2 Norton Rose Digital Infrastructure Partners in Chicago
The two newly appointed partners at Foley & Lardner, Daniel Farris and Joe McClendon, bring with them a practice that bridges the firm’s energy and infrastructure group with its innovative technology sector.
‘Serious About the Adoption of Legal Tech’: Former EY Law Leader Joins Dentons
Cornelius Grossmann served as the global managing partner of the legal practice at Big Four accounting firm EY for 13 years. He’s now at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, as its first-ever global head of solutions development.
Sorrels Law Adds Trial Boutique Partner as Head of Commercial Litigation
Brian Baker, formerly a name partner at the trial firm Stacy Baker, has joined Sorrels Law as a partner and will head the firm’s commercial law practice.
Jones Walker Strengthens Construction, Restructuring Practices By Adding Two In Miami
Matt Maranges joined the firm as a partner on its construction team, and Nicole Grimal Helmstetter joined as a special counsel on the bankruptcy and restructuring team.
Sheppard Mullin Adds Health Care Partner From Polsinelli in Chicago
Linas Grikis joins Sheppard Mullin after more than 13 years at Polsinelli.
In-House
US pharma heavyweight Bristol Myers Squibb hires internally to fill GC vacancy
Cari Gallman is promoted to legal head role, replacing Sandra Leung who is retiring after 33 years at the company
US video games industry body ESA hires IP veteran to lead legal team
US video games industry body the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has named Stan McCoy as its general counsel, replacing Gina Vetere who stepped down in January.
Team Moves
Taylor Wessing Snaps Up Pinsent Masons Team to Launch Paris Patent Practice
The team is headed by partner Jules Fabre, who joins from Pinsent Masons, where he previously led the intellectual property practice in Paris.
Baker McKenzie Hires Fintech Partner Duo in Washington From A&O Shearman
New partner Todd Beauchamp, who is joining the firm with Charles Weinstein, will take the lead of the fintech and payments practice. Meanwhile, Lawrence Lee, a partner since 2019, has been appointed to head the North America fintech M&A practice.
Saxton & Stump Adds Two Litigators From Kleinbard
Shohin Vance and Joshua Voss have both litigated electoral disputes in state and federal appellate courts.
Reed Smith Snags Greenberg Traurig Labor and Employment Co-Chair in 3-Partner Move
The three partners are joining Reed Smith’s Philadelphia office following a strong 2024 for the firm, which reported revenues exceeding $1.5 billion and a 11.4% increase in its bottom line.
The departures leave DLA Piper with no dedicated energy practice partner in Greater China. They include energy specialists Carolyn Dong, Neil Macdonald, and Russell Wilkinson from DLA Piper, and maritime disputes expert Andrew Rigden Green from Stephenson Harwood.
Financials:
King & Spalding Hits $100M Goal in London
According to firm chair Robert Hays, demand has “surged” since 2022 for international arbitration and disputes, along with finance and corporate matters.
Promotions & Appointments:
Ogier promotes finance lawyer Eoin Hamill to partner
Eoin Hamill has been promoted to partner in Ogier’s banking and finance team.
Chris Clarke and Rich Hawkins replace Shane Barber, who is stepping down as Bird & Bird Australia’s head of country and managing partner after a decade in the role.
Diversity & Inclusion:
McCarthy Tétrault’s New DEI Chief Says Firm ‘Unwavering’ in Its Commitment to Inclusion
Steeves Bujold has assumed the role of Chief Inclusion Officer at the firm following the departure of three senior Black lawyers, including his predecessor.
DEI, Immigration Policy Shifts Putting Legal, HR Teams to the Test
Nearly half of the 350 respondents to Littler Mendelson’s annual employer survey worry about prospective litigation over diversity, equity and inclusion—roughly double the percentage a year earlier.
Office Openings & Closing:
Australia’s Wotton Kearney to Open Second Asia Office in Thailand
The firm has secured private equity backing to support its expansion efforts.
Fieldfisher Plants Flag in Poland With Dual Office Launch and 25-Lawyer Team
The firm has secured private equity backing to support its expansion efforts.
American Labor Firm Fisher Philips Breaks Into Asia With Tokyo Launch
Fisher Phillips holds the 167th spot on the Global 200 list, with gross revenues totaling approximately $340 million.
Luxembourg Funds Lawyers form their own alternative legal services boutique
Alix van der Wielen, Benoit Dardenne, Benoit Kelecom, Christophe Balthazard, Olivier Wuidar, and Renaud Graas have joined forces to form LAB Partners, a Luxembourg Alternative Boutique legal company, following years of collaboration!
Mergers & Alliances:
McDermott and Schulte in Merger Talks
The proposed merger would result in a firm generating $2.8 billion in combined revenue, placing it among the top 20 in the Am Law 100, and employing over 1,600 lawyers.
Technology & Innovation:
India’s Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas Launches AI-Focused Law Research Centre
“India has a chance to lead in shaping ethical frameworks for AI and digital technology policy and regulation,” said Cyril Shroff, managing partner at CAM, whose endowment supported the establishment of the platform.
AI-Powered Legal Marketing Startup FirmPilot Announces $4.7 Million in New Funding
The new funding—led by Thomson Reuters Ventures and HubSpot Ventures—builds on a $5 million Series A round headed by Blumberg Capital in June 2024, and comes as the company broadens its focus beyond personal injury firms.
‘Dangerously Innovative’: Putting AI to Work at Firms and in the Courts
Attorneys and judges are becoming more comfortable using artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and productivity.
Eminent AI Researcher Foresees an In-House Revolution
“We have a study showing that junior professionals tend to be less effective with AI than their senior counterparts because they lack a clear sense of what ‘good’ work looks like,” said Ethan Mollick, co-director of Generative AI Labs at the Wharton School. “They might receive a legal memo and think, ‘This is excellent!’ without realizing its flaws.”
Market Commentary:
The Importance of Change Management In Law Firms: Winning Lawyers’ Support for Behavioral Change
Law firms, traditionally grounded in precedent and resistant to disruption, often face challenges in managing change. However, in today’s fast-changing legal environment, embracing new technologies, workflows, and rising client demands is no longer a choice — it’s a necessity for staying competitive.
During a month when many countries spotlight mental health awareness, The Global Lawyer examines how members of the legal profession—long recognized as facing significant well-being challenges—can navigate these difficult times.
A former co-head of government investigations at Winston & Strawn has established a boutique firm with two former Skadden associates who resigned in protest at their firm’s unwillingness to speak out against President Donald Trump’s targeting of Big Law firms.
BCLP launches redundancy consultation
Transatlantic firm to cut around 8% of business services staff globally
Financials:
Unfazed by Losing Antitrust Suits, Alphabet Makes Kent Walker First US GC to Break $30M Pay Barrier
Despite significant antitrust defeats, Alphabet’s Kent Walker just became the first U.S. general counsel to surpass $30M in annual pay.
Dallas-Founded Trial Firm Brewer to Boost First-Year Associate Salaries to $300K
April 28, 2025…Dallas, TX – Brewer, Attorneys & Counselors today announced that, effective September 1, 2025, it will increase first-year associate salaries to $300,000.
Rate rises fuel double-digit revenue growth for Big Law in Q1, Wells Fargo reports
Am Law 200 grew revenue 11.3% in first quarter of the year, though demand growth did not live up to expectations according to bank’s research
Barnes & Thornburg, With More Strength in Hiring, Increases Revenue 8%
Firm managing partner Andy Detherage credited the strong results to a mix of higher billing rates, increased staffing, and strong client demand.
Energy, Infrastructure, Finance Practice Lofted Bracewell into Record Year With Revenue Up 11%
The Houston-based firm capitalized on its energy sector expertise and favorable timing to achieve strong financial results in 2024.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Law Students Sue EEOC Over Demands for Big Law DEI Hiring Data
The students’ lawsuit marks another chapter in Democracy Forward’s broader campaign against executive overreach, echoing previous legal challenges the organization has brought against Trump-era policies, including a high-profile suit opposing an executive order that stripped federal employees of job protections and opened the door to politically motivated firings.
Trans former judge to take UK to European Court of Human Rights
A transgender former judge has said she will take the UK to the European Court of Human Rights following the UK Supreme Court’s ruling that “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refers solely to biological sex.
Office Openings & Closing:
UAE firm Habib Al Mulla expands to Egypt
Habib Al Mulla and Partners has expanded into Egypt with the opening of a new office in Cairo.
Mergers & Alliances:
Freshfields has entered into a joint operation with Shanghai-based RuiMin Law Firm, marking a strategic collaboration under the name Freshfields RuiMin.
Dickinson Wright Joins Seattle Push Via Merger With Local Firm
The Detroit-based firm revealed a merger with Seattle firm Ashbaugh Beal this week, adding 11 lawyers to its team in the Emerald City.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Freshfields Strengthens Energy and Infrastructure Team with New Hire from Paul Hastings
In a strategic move to expand its energy and infrastructure team, Freshfields has welcomed Alistair McKechnie from Paul Hastings
Herbert Smith Freehills Partners to Join Morrison & Foerster
two partners from Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) are set to join the US-based firm Morrison & Foerster.
Wong adds Magic Circle heft to McDermott’s City credentials
Kathleen Wong has joined McDermott Will & Emery as a London-based transactional partner. She leaves A&O Shearman after 23 years.
Morgan Lewis Expands Global Tax Team as Andrew Callaghan Joins in London.
Morgan Lewis is expanding its global tax bench with the arrival of Andrew Callaghan, a seasoned tax adviser who joins the firm’s London office from Milbank.
Eversheds Sutherland augments M&A offering with further lateral partner hire
Eversheds Sutherland has appointed M&A Partner Pieter Paul Terpstra to its corporate finance offering
Linklaters lines up A&O Shearman partner as public international law head
Matthew Hodgson joins Magic Circle rival after more than two decades at A&O
Euan Burrows joins White & Case as a partner in London
Euan joins White & Case from Ashurst, where he was a partner and global head of the antitrust, regulation and trade team.
The Americas
Brian Boynton, former US DOJ Civil Division Head, Rejoins WilmerHale
Boynton worked at DOJ before joining WilmerHale.
Spiegel joins from Offit Kurman.
Former Chief Justice Joins HunterMaclean
Hunter Maclean is pleased to announce that Chief Justice Michael P. has joined the firm as a partner.
Jenner & Block Welcomes Ashley Callen, Former General Counsel
Ashley Callen is joining Jenner & Block as a Partner in the Washington, DC office. She previously served as General Counsel to Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson.
Employment practice partner David Long-Daniels joins Reed Smith in Atlanta
Reed Smith announced that David Long-Daniels has joined the firm’s Labor & Employment Group as a partner in its rapidly growing Atlanta office.
Weil Adds First-Chair Trial Lawyer Nili Moghaddam to Complex Commercial Litigation Practice
Nili’s practice focuses on complex commercial litigation, government and internal investigations, white collar defense and regulatory compliance. She joins from Boies Schiller Flexner LLP, where she was a partner in that firm’s Litigation practice.
Hogan Lovells adds tech project development lawyers to Miami office
Fernando Margarit has joined as a Corporate & Finance partner in the firm’s Infrastructure, Energy, Resources & Projects (IERP) practice in Miami. Margarit is joined by counsel Brittany Buhler. Both join from Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP.
McDermott Lands Kirkland Capital Markets Partner in Chicago
Craig Garvey aims to mirror the success achieved by several of his former colleagues who made a comparable transition.
Former Senior Trump Administration Trade Official Joins Akin as DC Partner
Kelly Ann Shaw, a Hogan Lovells partner and former key trade official during President Trump’s first term, has joined Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld as a partner in its lobbying and public policy practice.
Akin Adds Two Ex-Government Lawyers to DC International Trade Team
Matthew Borman and Eileen Albanese, both longtime veterans of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), joined Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld on Monday as part of the firm’s expansion of its international trade practice.
APAC
Hong Kong: JSM sees partners exit for Kennedys, Simmons & Simmons
Newly independent Hong Kong law firm Johnson Stokes & Master (JSM) has seen two partner exits, with disputes specialist Wilson Fung (L) departing for Kennedys and employment expert Jennifer Tam joining Simmons & Simmons
The departures leave DLA Piper with no dedicated energy practice partner in Greater China.
EMEA
Latham & Watkins Expands German Operations with New Partner from White & Case
Latham & Watkins is strengthening its presence in Germany by welcoming a new partner from White & Case
Mayer Brown continues Middle East expansion with Dubai partner hire
Priya Shah, an energy specialist, has joined from Ashurst’s Abu Dhabi office.
In-House
US radio giant iHeartMedia hires former CBS Sports GC as next CLO
US radio and audio media company iHeartMedia has hired David Hillman as chief legal officer, filling the seat left vacant by Jordan Fasbender who departed the company in March. Hillman joins from sports streaming business Venu Sports.
Team Moves
Sidley makes London funds play with Weil triple hire
Sidley Austin has hired a trio of funds partners from Weil in London, further ramping up its aggressive City expansion. The group is led by Ed Gander, Weil’s head of London private funds group. Gander is joined by fellow Weil partners Peter Boulle and Stephen Fox.
Cahill hires trio of King & Spalding partners to launch tech IP disputes practice in DC
Cahill Gordon & Reindel is launching a technology IP litigation practice after hiring a three-strong team of highly regarded trial lawyers from King & Spalding. Their names are Chris Campbell, Britton Davis, and Alfonso Garcia Chan.
GRSM Strengthens Florida Footprint with New Miami Team
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani is pleased to welcome a distinguished four-attorney team to its Miami office, led by Partners Lance Shinder and Kyle Johnson. Joining them are Senior Counsel Jordan Utanski and Associate Brandon Shinder, all formerly at Black Srebnick.
John Schnurer, Louise Lu, Kevin Patariu, and Miguel Bombach join the firm’s IP Litigation Practice Group and Innovative Technology Sector in San Diego. Schnurer, Lu, Patariu, and Bombach come from Perkins Coie and bring extensive capabilities in patent litigation. Anderton comes from K&L Gates and advises domestic and international companies.
All practicing Barg Coffin lawyers joined B&D, including Morgan Gilhuly, Brian Haughton, David Metres, Emily Haldeman, Griffin Williams, John Barg, and Stephen Lewis.
Sidley Austin recently expanded its roster by adding nine lawyers from Allen & Overy Shearman’s offices in New York and Washington, D.C. Among the new additions is a seven-lawyer, partner-led finance team in New York and the U.S. regulatory head from Washington, D.C.
Schwartz Sladkus Adds Three-Attorney Fertility Law Team From Warshaw Burstein
Alexis Cirel was a partner at Schwartz Sladkus from 2019 to 2021. She returns as part of a three-lawyer team that is launching a new fertility practice at Schwartz in New York City.
Promotions & Appointments:
Four new partners among promotions at Eversheds Sutherland
Aonghus McClafferty in the dispute resolution and litigation team, Corrina Cassidy in the real estate team, and Chelsey O’Doherty and Nuala Maguire in the construction and projects team have all been promoted to partner.
Ironclad Appoints Docusign’s Dan Springer as CEO
Ironclad Inc. has hired former Docusign CEO Dan Springer as its new leader, with co-founder and outgoing CEO Jason Boehmig becoming executive chairman. Both Springer and Boehmig start in their new roles at Ironclad, a major provider of contract lifecycle management software, on Monday.
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer Appoints New Managing Partner to Lead Asia Strategy Shift
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has appointed Matthew O’Callaghan as its new Asia-wide managing partner. O’Callaghan, who rejoined Freshfields in 2019 as the head of its Asia financial services practice after a 14-year tenure at Goldman Sachs, succeeds Thomas Ng in this role.
Ashurst strengthens Paris corporate team with partner promotion
Global law firm Ashurst has bolstered its corporate/M&A offering with the promotion of Charles-Douglas Fuz to partner in the Paris corporate team, effective 1 May 2025
Clifford Chance promotes 31 to partner – 12 made up in London
Clifford Chance has promoted 31 lawyers to partner in its 2025 round, with London accounting for almost 40% of the global cohort. The latest round is slightly larger than last year’s total of 29 but remains smaller than the firm’s 2023 and 2022 rounds, which saw 32 and 37 promotions respectively.
Chris Clarke, Rich Hawkins to co-lead Bird & Bird’s Australian office
Bird & Bird has announced that Sydney corporate head Chris Clarke and Australian sports practice founder Rich Hawkins will co-lead the firm’s Australian office effective today.
Brazil’s Lefosse Promotes 3 to Partner in Wake of Rainmaker Exit
Brazilian Elite firm Lefosse has strengthened its disputes, capital markets and tax departments by promoting three counsel to its partnership.
Dentons appoints Cornelius Grossmann as Global Head of Solutions Development
Cornelius Grossmann has been appointed Global Head of Solutions Development. He will lead the Firm’s Global Solutions Group to expand and enhance client solutions globally.
Stephenson Harwood promotes 12 partners with a quarter based in Dubai
Jordan Ellis, Paul Katsouris, and Toufic Safie have been promoted to the firm’s partnership, effective from May 1, 2025.
Kennedys promotes Dublin lawyer Mark Dunne to partner
Global law firm Kennedys has promoted Mark Dunne to partner in the firm’s Dublin office.
Linklaters appoints new Global Head of Energy & Infrastructure
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Ginks as Global Head of Energy & Infrastructure! He succeeds Daniel Tyrer, who has led the practice successfully since 2019 and who will be returning to full-time client work
McCann FitzGerald names nine new partners
In Dublin, the new partners are Marie-Alice Cleary and Patrick Longworth in the litigation group, Edel Corry in the real estate group, and Liane Egan, Ronan Murphy and Mark O’Connor in the finance group. Corporate lawyers Jerome Kennedy and Rachel O’Neill have been promoted to partner in the firm’s New York office, while Jack Kelly has become the firm’s third partner in London.
Eversheds Sutherland (International) is pleased to confirm that Keith Froud has now succeeded Lee Ranson as the firm’s Global Co-CEO and International Chief Executive. Keith’s election in September 2024 was uncontested and he began his four-year term on the 1st of May 2025.
Congratulations to Claire Dutch on her appointment as Ashurst’s London Managing Partner!
Osborne Clarke promote 10 UK Partners
International legal practice Osborne Clarke announces that 10 lawyers will be made up to Partner and six promoted to Legal Director on 1st May 2025. This reflects the firm’s commitment to growth and development of talent. London Partners include Chloe Deng, Nicholas Grewal, Jamie Heatly, James Hunt, Roisin Marsh, Luke Maunder, and William Nicolson.
Simmons Appoints UK Head as New-Look Leadership Gets Underway
The firm’s new managing partner Emily Monastiriotis emphasized her desire to internationalize the business.
Technology & Innovation:
MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell’s lawyers use AI for court filing, push to move defamation trial
Lawyers representing MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell have asked a judge to postpone the defamation trial against him after mistakenly filing a document made with artificial intelligence.
The State Bar of California has acknowledged for the first time that artificial intelligence was used to develop multiple-choice questions for the February 2025 bar exam, a revelation that has sparked backlash across the legal community and prompted calls for increased transparency and accountability.
Meta executive publicly apologizes to conservative influencer for AI responses
A top executive at tech giant Meta has issued a public apology to conservative influencer Robby Starbuck after Starbuck filed a lawsuit alleging that Meta’s artificial intelligence chatbot produced responses containing false and defamatory information about him.
How Troutman Pepper Locke Used Gen AI to Streamline Its Firm Merger Process
The firm utilized its in-house generative AI chatbot and agentic AI workflows to streamline the management of its recent merger with Locke Lord.
Market Commentary:
Supreme Court appears ready to bless the country’s first public religious charter school
The Supreme Court’s conservative justices signaled Wednesday they are open to allowing the Catholic Church to launch the country’s first publicly funded religious charter school, despite arguments from opponents who say the school would violate the Constitution’s ban on government-established religion.
Bird & Bird Poised to Secure License to Practice in Saudi Arabia’s Legal Market
Bird & Bird is preparing to join the surge of global law firms breaking into Saudi Arabia’s fast-opening legal market.
Financials:
A dollar a second? Hourly rates rocket at top global firms
Average hourly rates for law firm partners increased by 5.1% in 2024, marking the second-highest annual rise since CounselLink began publishing the report in 2013. This figure is only slightly below the 5.4% increase seen in 2023, which was described as a significant post-pandemic surge.
US lobbying firms see early revenue boost in Trump’s second term
Leading firms in Washington, D.C., are seeing a surge in lobbying revenue as corporations, industry associations, and other groups work to influence policy during President Donald Trump’s second term and under a Republican-led Congress.
Citing ‘Balance in Pillar Practices’, Brown Rudnick Sees Revenue Climb 5%, PEP Rise to $1.78M
CEO Vince Guglielmotti stated that solid results across all five of the firm’s core practice areas contributed to its ongoing growth.
LSB shaves budget demand but lawyers still face 11% rise
The Legal Services Board (LSB) has scaled back its proposed budget increase for 2025–26, but it will still rise by 11%, adding £3.05 to each regulated lawyer’s practising fee.
Morris, Manning & Martin Kept Revenue Flat Amid 2024 Attorney Losses
Profits per equity partner increased as the firm lost 8.8% of its head count.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Supreme Court signals support for Maryland parents who object to LGBTQ books in public schools
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court’s conservative majority indicated support for the religious rights of Maryland parents seeking to opt their children out of elementary school lessons that include storybooks featuring LGBTQ characters.
Irish law will protect trans people in wake of UK ruling
The Ladies’ Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) is facing calls to reconsider its policy permitting transgender players aged 12 and over to participate in matches, following a recent UK ruling concerning the legal definition of a woman.
50th Anniversary of the Black Women Lawyers Association of LA
The 50th anniversary featured a panel discussion with past presidents spanning the 50 years of BWL.
Office Openings & Closing:
Baker Donelson opens in New Jersey with 26-lawyer team from Epstein Becker
The group of lawyers practising across healthcare transactions, litigation and real estate has joined to open the firm’s first offices in the region, in Princeton and Iselin in New Jersey.
Addleshaw Goddard relocates Edinburgh office to St Andrew Square
Addleshaw Goddard is to relocate its Edinburgh operations to a new office at 24 St Andrew Square.
Mergers & Alliances:
Drogheda firms merge to form McKeever Tallan LLP
Historic Drogheda law firms McKeever Taylor and Tallan Solicitors have joined forces to form McKeever Tallan LLP.
Both firms, each with a legacy spanning more than a century, state that the merger will enhance their capacity to provide expert legal services across a wide array of practice areas.
Japan’s Oh-Ebashi forms Indonesia alliance, to set up Jakarta desk
Japanese law firm Oh-Ebashi LPC & Partners has formed a business affiliation with Indonesia’s MAPS Law Firm and plans to launch a Jakarta desk in the near future, the firms have jointly announced.
Manchester and Yorkshire firms announce acquisitions
HNK, a specialist in data and cyber-crime, is set to rebrand as Express while continuing operations from its Liverpool office. Meanwhile, Yorkshire-based Ison Harrison has acquired personal injury firm Armstrong Luty Solicitors, located in Skipton.
Grant Thornton expands reach with new global partnerships
Grant Thornton Advisors has expanded its platform by incorporating Grant Thornton UAE, Grant Thornton Luxembourg, and Grant Thornton Cayman. The newly added firms will become part of the wider Grant Thornton International network, which spans more than 150 markets worldwide.
New practice area and location for top PI firm leads latest M&A
Top personal injury firm Express Solicitors has expanded out of Manchester with an acquisition that also takes it into the data breach market.
It has acquired Liverpool-based HNK Solicitors, which handles civil liberties, data breach, cyber-crime and criminal injury claims.
‘Exciting new chapter’ as two Scottish legal firms merge
Thorntons said it has significantly strengthened its market presence and share following the completion of its strategic merger with Macnabs.
Moves:
EMEA
K&L Gates Hires White & Case Energy and Resources Partner in Australia
Prior to joining K&L Gates, Matthew was a partner in the Project Development Finance practice in Southeast Asia and also served as the Head of the Philippines Country Group at an international law firm.
Swaab has hired a new partner in its construction practice, as well as added an associate to its commercial, corporate, IP and technology team. Partner Mark Glynn joins the firm from Minter Ellison.
Stefan Winquist joins Danish law firm Horten
After a brief chapter as CEO of Xperate Europe, former Bech Bruun chief information officer Stefan Winquist is joining Horten Law Firm as CIO.
UK & Ireland
Louise O’Donnell appointed as new chair of Labour Court
Ms O’Donnell is a qualified barrister and an experienced senior IR practitioner. She has previously sat as a deputy chair in the Labour Court and has extensive knowledge and experience in dealing with industrial relations, employment law, third party processes and has a wealth of experience in the resolution of significant industrial relations disputes.
Paul Hastings adds investment funds partner to London office
US-based law firm Paul Hastings has added investment funds lawyer Catherine Gokah to its London office and made her a partner.
Gokah joins the firm from Kirkland & Ellis, where she was a London-based partner.
Jamie Apted joins Aberdein Considine
Experienced commercial and banking lawyer Jamie Apted has joined Aberdein Considine as a partner. He previously worked at the Financial Ombudsman Service and in private practice.
Travers Smith targets property disputes with senior hire from CMS
Travers Smith has hired Robert Payne from CMS, promoting him to partner to lead its property litigation team.
Lodders appoints Steve Halkett as partner
Lodders has appointed corporate law expert Steve Halkett as an equity partner to support its strategic growth initiatives within the corporate and M&A sectors. Halkett joins the firm following an accomplished 18-year career at Wright Hassall.
The Americas
Mayer Brown continues to strengthen its Export Controls & Sanctions practice with the addition of Thea Kendler, former Assistant Secretary for Export Administration at the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and Aiysha S. Hussain, who served as her Senior Policy Advisor.
CFTC Veteran and General Counsel Rob Schwartz Joins Morgan Lewis
Morgan Lewis is pleased to welcome Robert A. Schwartz, who has spent more than a decade with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), including as general counsel. Rob joins the firm as a partner in the investment management practice, resident in Washington, DC.
Cozen O’Connor today announced one of the nation’s leading corporate attorneys, Samuel E. Feigin, has joined Cozen O’Connor to serve as the firm’s Strategic Growth Partner and lead its newly formed Israel practice. Feigin comes to the firm from Crowell & Moring, where he chaired the Corporate and Israel practices.
King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, welcomed attorney Michael P. Zaccaro
Prior to joining KingSpry, Attorney Zaccaro served in the Special Education Department of the Office of General Counsel for the New York City Department of Education.
Veteran Trial Attorney Peter Spillis Joins Freedland Harwin Valori Gander
Freedland Harwin Valori Gander, PLLC, a leading South Florida personal injury and medical malpractice law firm, announced that Peter K. Spillis has joined the firm as a partner. Spillis most recently served as managing partner at Fort Lauderdale-based Kelley|Uustal.
Baker Botts Adds Depth to Market-Leading Environmental Team
Chris Thiele has joined Baker Botts L.L.P. as a partner in the firm’s Litigation practice within the Environmental, Safety and Incident Response (ESIR) Section. He moves to the firm from an independent midstream energy infrastructure development company, where he served as Senior Vice President and legal counsel.
Corporate Partner Michael Marek Joins Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis announced today that Michael Marek has joined the Firm as a partner in the Corporate Practice Group. He joins Kirkland from Vinson & Elkins LLP, where he was a partner.
APAC
Tongshang HK nabs second A&O Shearman lawyer in two months
Eric Chow & Co, the Hong Kong association firm of Commerce & Finance Law Offices (Tongshang), has strengthened its corporate capabilities with the addition of corporate finance partner Kung-Wei Liu from A&O Shearman.
JSA onboards SAM insurance partner in Gurgaon
JSA Advocates & Solicitors has made a fourth partner hire in 2025, with the addition of insurance Shivangi Sharma Talwar in Gurgaon. Talwar joins from Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, where she had been partner since 2022.
Hong Kong boutique GPS hires disputes veteran as partner from Conyers
Hong Kong boutique law firm GPS Legal has appointed Mark Yeadon as a partner in its disputes practice. Yeadon joins from offshore law firm Conyers Dill & Pearman, where he was head of litigation for Hong Kong.
HK: K&L Gates welcomes cap markets partner from Robertsons
U.S. law firm K&L Gates expanded its capital markets practice in Hong Kong with the hire of Janney Chong as a partner from local outfit Robertsons.
PRC’s DeHeng adds real estate partner in Hong Kong
PRC law firm DeHeng Law Offices has bolstered its Hong Kong-based real estate practice with the addition of Maria Leung as a partner from local outfit Cheung & Yip.
In-House
Czech billionaire Karel Komárek enlists Clifford Chance partner
Swiss investment firm KKCG has named David Koláček as its group chief legal officer, a newly created role within the company.
Koláček joins from Clifford Chance where he was a partner and co-head of its corporate practice in Prague.
Welcoming General Counsel Jim Zappa
The McKnight Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Zappa as its new General Counsel, a position within the Office of the President. In this role, Zappa will serve as a strategic legal advisor to the Foundation, offering guidance on governance, risk, and compliance across the organization. Zappa joins from Faegre Drinker.
Jamie Brown joins Associate Capital as General Counsel from Paul Hastings.
CAM expands private client practice in Singapore with senior in-house hire
Indian law firm Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas has enhanced its Singapore offerings by appointing Varun Kalsi as a director in its private client practice. Kalsi joins from Lighthouse Canton.
Team Moves
Sidley hits Cadwalader for 14-lawyer real estate finance team
Sidley Austin has hired a 14-lawyer real estate finance team from Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft as it continues to expand its New York office.
Friedman Law Group Joins CM Law’s Chicago Office
CM Law PLLC, the largest, national, woman-owned and managed, full-service law firm in the country, is pleased to welcome the six members of the Friedman Law Group to its Chicago office.
Promotions & Appointments:
A&O Shearman promotes 33 new partners
London: Tina Barazandeh-Nejad, Evgenia Erakhtina, Temilope Esho, James Green, Xin Ni Lim, Aoife Mac Dermott, Thomas McGuffie, Emma Perrin, Fatima Al-Shawaf
New York: James Bryson, John Hibbard
Paris: Paul Fortin, Benjamin Lacourt, Jules Lecoeur, Tzvetomira Pacheva
Dubai: Mike Campbell, Richard Chamberlain
Luxembourg: Vittoria Faraone, Pol Theisen
Hamburg: Hauke Sattler, Sebastian Remberg
Amsterdam: Kayleigh Sanders, Pieter Tieskens
Jakarta: Ferhat Afkar
Perth: Jackson Allen, Jacke Donald
Sydney: Simone Lowes
Washington D.C: Matthew Brown
Bratislava: Tomas Bury
Dallas: Billy Marsh
Düsseldorf: Michael Fink
Rome: Alessandra Pala
Frankfurt: Charlotte Wllemer
Freshfields makes up 25 in latest partner promotions round
London: Ramya Arnold, Joshua Kelly, Emily Knight, James Raeside, Jessica Steele, Meredith Bayley, Michael Black, Kate Hatcher, Jon Scurr
Brussels: Aaron Green, Janet Lang
Amsterdam: Alvaro Pliego Selie
Singapore: Rohit Bhat
Frankfurt: Katharna Shingler, Carsten Haak, Daniel von Bülow, Sebastian Röger
New York: Nicholas A. Caselli, Jeff Jay, Sarah Katz
Hamburg: Judth Romer
Abu Dhabi: Charlotte Stevens
Dusseldorf: Stefanie Spancken-Monz
Madrid: Cristina Esteve
Paris: Elodie Favre-Thellmann
Stephenson Harwood elevates 12 to partner in firm’s second largest promotions round
Kuljeet Bahia, Stewart Scott, Ross Davidson, Jordan Ellis, Peter Gillis, Toufic Safie, Alexa Whitehead, Paul Katsouris, Shirley Li, Emma Nowell, Mateusz Bek, Adam Polonsky
Ashurst unveils 20-strong promotions round
The new partners cover 10 practice groups, with notable investments in dispute resolution (four promotions), corporate transactions and projects and energy transition (three each), reflecting priority growth areas set out in Ashurst’s 2027 growth strategy. There were also two promotions apiece in the competition and tax practices and one in the firm’s NewLaw arm, with the rest spread across restructuring, global loans, global markets and digital economy transactions.
Technology & Innovation:
Eve Launches Gen AI Reasoning Mode Tool for Litigation Document Analysis
Eve, an AI platform for plaintiffs’ law firms, is today introducing an AI Reasoning Mode that it says can perform complex legal analysis through sophisticated step-by-step reasoning capabilities, on a par with a senior-level lawyer.
UAE set to use AI to write Laws
UAE set to use AI to write laws in world first Gulf state expects move will speed up lawmaking by 70% but experts warn of ‘reliability’ issues with the technology.
Dentons and Top German Legal Publisher Partner with CMS-linked Noxtua in Boost for European AI
“Dentons has always been driven by the vision of being the law firm of the future, so innovation is in our DNA. As part of our wider strategy to embrace the power of artificial intelligence to transform our industry, we are excited by the opportunity for Dentons Europe to contribute our legal and innovation expertise to the development of Noxtua to address the specific needs of the European market.”
200 French media publications sue Meta, alleging unlawful business practices
A group of 67 French media companies representing 200 publications has filed a lawsuit against Facebook parent company Meta, accusing the tech giant of unlawful business practices in the digital advertising sector.
Market Commentary:
Millar McCall Wylie launches new CSR strategy
Northern Ireland firm Millar McCall Wylie has launched a new corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy, centred around having a sustained, positive impact on society.
Law Firms Are Tapping Former Legal Chiefs for a New Kind of Role GC in Residence
Once a rarity, general counsel-in-residence programs are gaining traction at Big Law firms, including Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati and Mayer Brown. Firms draw on the ex-legal chiefs to drum up business, and to provide insight that can only come from a battle-tested in-house legal leader.
DWF puts over 100 jobs at risk in cost-cutting drive
DWF has placed 108 staff at risk of redundancy as it looks to slim down parts of its business services divisions.
LRSA report reveals 829 complaints made against lawyers in six-month period
The Legal Services Regulatory Authority (LSRA) has published its first complaints report for 2025 which shows it received 829 complaints in a six month period, with 839 complaints closed.
Financials:
‘Continuing the Trend’: Mintz Tops $700M in Revenue, Sees PEP Surge 22.2%
Mintz reported an 8.5% jump in revenue, reaching a solid $700 million, while profits per equity partner surged by 22.2% to $2.57 million. In short, it’s yet another consistent climb for a firm that hasn’t experienced a downturn since the Obama administration.
Rebound in Demand, AFAs Help Butler Snow Grow Revenue Above $250M for First Time
The Mississippi-founded firm saw revenue increase 16% amid strong showings in its public finance, civil rights litigation and health care practices.
Net Income Rises Over 9%, PEP Breaks $3.5M at Winston & Strawn
Bolstered by its expertise in specialized finance, digital assets, high-stakes litigation, and private equity and M&A, Winston & Strawn grew its gross revenue by nearly 7% to $1.27 billion. Both net income and profits per equity partner outpaced that growth, each increasing by more than 9%.
Elite New York Law Firms See Big Profit Gains, Amid Tight Control of Equity Tiers
Patrick Smith at Law.com analyzed the performance of 19 top-tier New York firms, and the numbers speak for themselves. Nearly across the board, they delivered standout results — average year-over-year revenue climbed 7.4%, revenue per lawyer increased by 4.5%, profits per equity partner rose 8.8%, and net income jumped 10.1%.
IP as Collateral: Navigating the Legal Landscape of Startup Financing
As venture capital firms become more selective and traditional lending tightens, a well-leveraged IP strategy is becoming the dividing line between startups that secure crucial funding and those that hit the growth ceiling. The stakes couldn’t be higher: master the art of IP as collateral, or risk leaving millions on the table.
Netflix CLO’s Comp Jumps 26%, Despite Plunge in Salary Caused by Newly Imposed Caps
David Hyman made $1.5 million in 2024 after earning $4 million in pay two years prior.
Litigation Practice Helped Jackson Walker Post 8.6% Increase in Revenue, over $1.5M in PEP
Jackson Walker’s primary practice, litigation, had strong demand, which helped the company maintain a run of record revenue.
In Final Year as Kramer Levin, Revenue Reaches $467M and PEP Jumps 25% Amid Shrinking Partnership
Prior to its merger with Herbert Smith Freehills, the company’s sales and PEP hit all-time highs.
Boies Schiller Posts 57% Jump in Gross Revenue Thanks to Contingency Payouts, Head Count Growth
Contingency fees accounted for over 40% of the firm’s revenue, but a year of tremendous expansion was also fuelled by an increase in demand from paying clients.
GC Ousted After Just 3 Months Earned $3.8 Million
Lock manufacturer Allegion stated in an SEC filing that Stacy Cozad “incurred an involuntary termination,” bringing her tenure to an abrupt end before her predecessor had even wrapped up his employment with the company.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Meet the Lawyers Suing Connecticut Over Equal Protection Rights
“I’m expecting that the court will rule in our favor,” Sheldon Toubman of Disability Rights of Connecticut, counsel for the plaintiff, said. “However, it could take some time, and that’s where, if the legislature acted, they could act much quicker. They could even act this session and then end the discrimination now, once and for all.”
‘White Students Not Eligible to Apply’: ABA Facing Lawsuit Over Race-Based Law School Scholarship
“This blatant discrimination is not only unbecoming of an association of lawyers, but it’s also illegal,” the complaint states.
Despite plenty of cynicism around the effectiveness of DEI, partners from ethnic minority backgrounds say that certain measures associated with it still highlighted valuable concepts like unconscious bias and made them feel ‘more seen’.
Federal judge blocks Labor Department from enforcing key part of Trump’s anti-DEI executive orders
On Tuesday 15th of April, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the U.S. Department of Labor from enforcing a requirement that government contractors and grant recipients certify their diversity, equity, and inclusion programs do not violate anti-discrimination laws—at least until the court issues a further order.
Big Law Firms Quietly Update Diversity Language, as Deadline Passes to Disclose The Data
At least seven law firms that received EEOC letters have made changes to their webpages on DEI commitments, apparently reducing their risks of an extensive investigation.
Office Openings & Closing:
Fenwick & West Opens Boston Office With Three Partners From Cooley
Chen Chen, Heidi Erlacher and Matthew Pavao are the first partner hires at the firm’s newest outpost in the city’s financial district.
PRC firm Hui Zhong opens in Singapore, enters into HK association
Beijing-based Hui Zhong Law Firm has officially launched its Singapore office, having received approval from the Singapore Ministry of Law to begin operations.
Mass Tort Firm Seeger Weiss Bows Out of Boston
Matthew Pawa, the former chair of the firm’s environmental practice, left to start his own environmental litigation boutique after helping to establish the firm’s Boston office in 2021.
Mergers & Alliances:
Clyde & Co Launches in Colombia via Association with Local Firm
The association comes less than three years after Clyde & Co. entered nearby Chile via a merger.
MoFo, Wilson Sonsini, Freshfields Advise on Infineon’s $2.5B Takeover of US-Based Marvell Tech Unit
Marvell Technology, a leading provider of data infrastructure semiconductor solutions, has announced a definitive agreement to sell its Automotive Ethernet business to Infineon Technologies in an all-cash deal valued at $2.5 billion. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati served as legal advisor to Marvell on the transaction.
Japan’s Oh-Ebashi forms Indonesia alliance, to set up Jakarta desk
The Indonesian firm MAPS Law Firm and the Japanese law firm Oh-Ebashi LPC & Partners have announced that they have formed a commercial affiliation and will shortly open a Jakarta office. Strengthening legal service skills for Japanese companies operating in Indonesia and enterprises involved in cross-border problems between the two nations is the goal of the strategic alliance.
Drogheda firms merge to form McKeever Tallan LLP
Tallan Solicitors and McKeever Taylor, two established Drogheda law firms, have joined forces to become McKeever Tallan LLP. The two firms, which were established more than a century ago, claim that the combination will improve their capacity to provide knowledgeable legal services in a variety of practice areas.
Moves:
APAC
Cooley Bolsters India and Southeast Asia Capital Markets Practice With Partner Hire
Shashwat Tewary has joined Cooley as a capital markets partner based in the firm’s Singapore office. He brings extensive experience advising a range of clients on capital markets activities in the fast-growing India and Southeast Asia regions. He was previously a partner at Sidley Austin.
SG: Links lifer joins Hogan Lovells to expand DCM capabilities
Hogan Lovells has strengthened its debt capital markets (DCM) practice in Singapore with the hire of Phill Hall as a partner in its corporate and finance practice from Linklaters, where he was a counsel.
Singapore boutique Chung Ting Fai & Co adds new ESG partner
Singapore-based boutique law firm Chung Ting Fai & Co has named Shen Xiaoyin as its new head of corporate, M&A, and ESG. Shen previously served as head of ESG, regulatory, and policies at BTPLaw.
Former Australian Leader of Hogan Lovells Joins Australian Firm
Scott Harris is the latest partner to find a new career after Hogan Lovells leaves Australia.
EMEA
Loyens & Loeff Welcomes Mirjam van de Hel-Koedoot as New Partner Amsterdam
Mirjam van de Hel- Koedoot has left her role as head of arbitration at NautaDutlh in Amsterdam to join the partnership at Loyens & Loeff.
Paul Hastings names third partner hire from White & Case following Abu Dhabi debut
Xavier Petet has joined in Paris, and will jointly lead the firm’s global energy and infrastructure practice
UK & Ireland
Crowell & Moring’s London Office Adds Leading AI and Emerging Tech Partner Emma Wright
Emma Wright, a market leading lawyer representing prominent technology companies and governments on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, has joined Crowell & Moring as a partner in the firm’s Privacy and Cybersecurity Group in London. Emma will advise clients on regulatory matters and complex technology procurements with a regulatory or government interface
Paul Weiss Adds Proskauer Finance Partner in London
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP announced today that Cameron Roper will be joining the firm’s London office as a partner in the Finance Group of the Corporate Department. Roper brings significant experience in fund finance, general lending, and advisory matters, representing both fund managers and financial institutions. Roper joins from Proskauer.
The Americas
Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey Hires New Partner
Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP is pleased to announce that Gerard (Rod) N. Saggese III has joined the firm as a Litigation Partner. He joined from Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan.
Littler Adds Special Counsel Sean M. Fisher in New Haven
Littler, the world’s largest labor and employment law firm representing management, has announced the addition of Sean M. Fisher as Special Counsel in its New Haven office. Fisher joins from Brenner, Saltzman & Wallman LLP, where he held the roles of Legal Director and Firm Counsel. His arrival is part of a series of strategic hires Littler has made since January.
Vinson & Elkins Hires Alex Canizares as Co-Head of Government Contracts Practice
Vinson & Elkins today announced that Alex Canizares joined the firm as a Washington, D.C.-based partner in the firm’s Litigation practice and as co-head of the Government Contracts practice. He joins from Perkins Coie.
Sheppard Mullin Expands Energy Team With Partner Jeffrey Escobar in New York
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is excited to welcome Jeffrey R. Escobar as a partner in the firm’s Energy, Infrastructure, and Project Finance industry team, based in New York. Escobar joins from Troutman Pepper Locke LLP, where he also served as a partner.
Former Federal Prosecutor Joins BCLP’s White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice
International law firm BCLP announced today that Joy Odom has joined the firm as a partner in its White Collar Defense & Investigations practice, operating from the Atlanta office. Prior to joining BCLP, Odom served as an attorney with the United States Attorney’s Office in Georgia.
Pro Gregory Keating Returns to Littler in Boston
Littler has welcomed Gregory Keating back to the firm as a shareholder in its Boston office. Keating previously served at Littler from 2004 to 2015, where he was a shareholder, led the Whistleblowing and Retaliation Practice, and completed two terms on the firm’s Board of Directors. He returns to Littler from Epstein Becker, bringing extensive experience advising employers on high-stakes investigations and complex whistleblower matters.
Former DOT Deputy General Counsel Brian Stansbury Joins Hunton’s Environmental Team in Washington
Former Deputy General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and well-known environmental lawyer Brian Stansbury has joined Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP as a partner in Washington.
Greenberg Traurig Expands in Texas
Two new lawyers were hired by the international law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP in Texas. Shayla Friesen joins the Finance Practice as an attorney, while Michelle Rosenblatt becomes a shareholder in the Private Wealth Services Practice.
Pillsbury Rehires Former Partner After Two-Year Stint as Miami’s U.S. Attorney
In 2023, Markenzy Lapointe departed the business to become the Southern District of Florida’s senior federal prosecutor. Since many government attorneys are looking to enter the private sector, he now anticipates working on more investigations and seeing more hiring possibilities.’
Partners Who Led Cozen O’Connor Growth Strategy in Canada Move to Gowlings
Brigeeta Richdale and Shane Hardy stated that they wished to concentrate less on administration and more on consumer issues.
In-House
Sandvik appoints Johanna Kreft as new General Counsel
Sandvik has named Johanna Kreft as its new Executive Vice President and General Counsel, effective October 13, 2025. Kreft, who currently serves in a similar role at Alleima, will also join the Sandvik Group Executive Management team.
Savvy Wealth Hires Former Pathstone General Counsel as First Head of Legal & Compliance
Savvy Wealth Inc., a digital-first platform focused on modernizing human financial advice, has announced the appointment of Lisandra Wilmott as its new Head of Legal & Compliance.
Hanesbrands’ CLO and HR Chief Books New Job at Hyatt
Oliver is taking Malaika Myers’ place at Hyatt as she retires.
2 Months into Retirement, Former Hallmark Legal Chief Takes on New Challenge
According to recruiters, it’s a trend: businesses are looking for legal executives with experience, and CLOs are still motivated.
Amid C-Suite Upheaval, Bumble CLO Exits After Just 10 Months
Deirdre Runnette, a former general counsel of the online retailer Zulily, has taken over the company’s legal responsibilities.
Former Legal Head of US Retailer Target Named CLO of UK-Based Flutter
This will be Liu’s fifth legal chief post. All of which have been in different industries.
BrewDog-backer TSG Consumer hires former Gibson Dunn lawyer as first CLO
US private equity firm TSG Consumer Partners has hired Sean Sullivan as chief legal officer, a newly created role. Sullivan joins from US wine business The Duckhorn Portfolio, where he is CLO and chief transformation officer.
Kevin Lang to take up interim CEO role at Law Society of Scotland
Kevin Lang, executive director of the Law Society of Scotland, has been named as the organization’s acting chief executive. He is currently the Law Society’s executive director of external relations. He will assume the position in the interim when Diane McGiffen leaves on Monday, April 28.
Team Moves
Bradley Lands Nine-Attorney IP Team Iin Atlanta From Morris Manning
Rainsford Reel Jr., Associate – Real Estate, joined the firm from Coleman Talley.
Timia A. Skelton, Associate – Labor & Employment, joined the firm from Shook Hardy & Bacon.
Ryan P. Wheeler, Senior Attorney – Tax, Trust and Estates, joined the firm from Phelps Dunbar
Priti M. Patel, Senior Attorney – Real Estate, joined the firm from Moore & Van Allen.
Alexis Baker Chandler, Associate – Litigation, joined the firm from Squire Patton Boggs
Krishan V. Patel, Senior Attorney – Real Estate, joined the firm from Phillips Murrah.
William M. Atallah, Associate – Construction, joined the firm from Germer, Beaman & Brown.
Matthew Griffin, Associate – Construction, joined the firm from Bracewell.
Mary Grace Whitten, Associate – Litigation, joined the firm after clerking for the Hon.
Baker Donelson Adds 26-Lawyer Health Care, Real Estate Group from Epstein Becker in New Jersey
The group’s leaders stated that further practice area support was necessary due to the changing nature of the health care sector.
Five attorneys, including two partners, have joined the firm since Paul Hastings hired White & Case partners in London and Abu Dhabi to co-lead its global energy and infrastructure practice in late March.
Promotions & Appointments:
Eversheds appoints two lawyers to partner in UAE
In Abu Dhabi, Roberta Wertman has been promoted to partner in the construction litigation practice, and in Dubai, Steve Jennings has been promoted to partner in the corporate practice.
HSF announce partner promotions
Australia: Emily Coghlan, Michael D’Agostino, Gabby Herron-Cartwright, Tamanna Islam, Geoff Kerrigan, Madeleine Miller, Eunice Park, Sydney Li-Lian Yeo
UK: Eliza Eaton, Krishna Shorewala, Charlotte Whight, Joe Williams, Shaun Williamson
Europe: Thomas Herman, Hannes Jacobi, Rémi Jouaneton, Nicolas Pol, Camille Puech-Baron
US: Maxwell Herman
Clifford Chance appoints Mark Currell as Managing Partner for Australia
Mark succeeds Richard Gordon whose second term concludes in April 2025. Richard will continue to support the firm on regional strategic initiatives.
Taylor Wessing announces promotions to partnership and counsel
Partnership
London: Clare Reynolds, Andrew Payne, Lacy Gratton, Richard Faichney
Ireland: Dannie Hanna, Jo Joyce
Germany: Johanna Götz
Counsel
UK: Charlie Adams, Lydia Birch, Stephen Burke, Tom Charnley, Jule Chiu, Charlotte Matthews, Mla Pencheva, Alexandra Poland, Michael Sherr
UAE: Amala Atieh
William Fry appoints three new partners
Mr O’Shea, based in the firm’s Cork office, has been promoted to partner in the firm’s banking and finance department. Mr Booth has been promoted to partner in the firm’s projects and construction department. Mr O’Sullivan, a chartered tax advisor and chartered accountant, joins the firm as a tax partner.
Mullany Walsh Maxwells appoints Elaine Keane as legal director
Dublin firm Mullany Walsh Maxwells LLP has appointed Elaine Keane as legal director.
Clyde & Co promotes 25 to partner
Nearly one-third of the promotions took place in North America, which is indicative of Clyde & Co.’s consistent expansion in the region, where it has 19 locations and has been in business since 2006. These promotions come after Tillman-Batchelor, a Dallas-based company, merged earlier in 2025.
Dentons promotes 10 to partnership in latest UK, Ireland and Middle East round
The cohort this year was higher than the nine that made the grade in 2022, but it was two below than the previous year and three lower than in 2023. Six of the new partners are women, despite the fact that the company did not release a diversity breakdown of this year’s promotions.
Technology & Innovation:
The rise of AI in health care presents new challenges related to the patentability and regulation of AI-driven medical technologies. This article examines the 2024 guidelines from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on patent eligibility for SaMD, the regulatory requirements established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and a comparison of how these devices are regulated and patented in both the United States and Europe.
We will discuss recent litigation such as the copyright infringement and right of publicity cases brought by prominent copyright owners such as The New York Times and actors such as Scarlett Johansson against AI platforms like OpenAI, and another recent case brought by the “Blade Runner 2049” (2017) movie producer against Tesla and Elon Musk concerning an AI-generated globally streamed promotion.
How Artificial Intelligence Is Revolutionizing Commercial Real Estate
The infusion of AI into the real estate industry has the potential to change how properties are valued, managed and marketed.
When Death Is Not the End: AI as Life Extension…?
Everyone experiences grief differently and there is no right or wrong to the question of whether AI “griefbots” should exist – they do and they will. It is for every person to ask themselves (before they are deceased) whether they want to make a statement in their will about such a creation; or whether they want to have access as a mourner to such a product.
For Most In-house Legal Teams, Gen AI Adoption is Still on the Backburner
Small budgets and siloed data are just some of the pain points legal teams are battling to achieve gen AI adoption.
Bankruptcy Court Dismisses AI Cryptocurrency Investor Claims
The intersection of artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency was involved in a recent decision in In re Augustus Intelligence (Case No. 21-10744 (TMH) (Adv. No. 23-50370 (TMH), where the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware dismissed claims against an alleged participant in a scheme that induced investors to fund over $30 million in an artificial intelligence company designed to generate revenue from enhanced cryptocurrency mining.
Integreon’s VP of Tech Solutions: ‘Legal Tech Has Turned a Corner’
Diane Homolak, vice president of technology solutions at Integreon, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for M&A and Transaction Innovation with The Contract Network, explains how gen AI is allowing innovation to spread to more areas of the legal industry.
‘Creating Solutions on the Fly’: Fisher Phillips Brings On First AI Director
Corporate tech veteran Pritesh Patel is developing custom tools at the labor and employment firm for client-facing and internal use.
DLA Piper Rolls Out AI-Generated Lawyer Negotiation Training Program
The technology, trialed last year, is being rolled out to multiple practice areas across DLA’s global offices, excluding the Americas.
AI Governance Efforts Hindered by Organizations’ Lack of Understanding, Budget
According to the IAPP’s 2025 AI Governance Profession Report, organizations are having difficulty delivering AI governance from the inside out, from comprehending AI and the underlying technology to developing an adequate budget.
The funding will help Phaselaw broaden its market reach and enhance its e-discovery capabilities.
Number of legal professionals using Gen AI jumps sharply over past year, study shows
26% of businesses and internal teams are utilizing Gen AI, up from 14% a year earlier, according to the 2025 Generative AI in Professional Services Report, which is based on a survey of 1,700 professionals mostly from the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Market Commentary:
Law Firm Remote Work Continues, But Attorneys Find Increased Value in Office Time
Partners embrace the office for leadership visibility and in-person meetings with clients and colleagues, while associates look for technology access and training, according to a new report from Gensler Research Institute.
California Physicians’ Service, doing business as Blue Shield of California and Blue Shield Life & Health Insurance Company, was hit with a class action on Monday for allegedly diverting patients’ sensitive and protected health data without their consent to Google’s advertising platform, Google Ads.
Law firms’ deals with Trump roil their staff, deepen industry rifts
Law firms that have pledged $940 million in pro bono legal work and made other concessions to U.S. President Donald Trump are now facing internal backlash. A growing number of Big Law associates are resigning in protest, arguing that their firms have compromised too heavily in an effort to avoid conflict with the administration.
The Rise of Hospitality In Law Firms, Revisited
The demand for client-facing hospitality experiences has increased. Law firms are including more client-centric services, such as personalized spaces for client meetings, high-end catering, and concierge-style offerings during in-person visits.
Financials:
Crowell & Moring Sees 5% Revenue Growth, Up to $626M
The firm’s profits per equity partner rose by more than 9% to $1.22 million, while its number of equity partners declined by 8% to 113. However, Crowell Chair Phil Inglima noted that the firm’s core business revenue grew by 11%.
After ‘Challenging’ 2023, Debevoise Roars Back With 19.7% Revenue Bump, 32% PEP Jump
Firm presiding partner Peter Furci said that after a challenging year, the firm took a close look at what set it apart and focused heavily on those strengths in 2024 — and the strategy paid off.
Profit Drop Takes Bite Out of Pay for McDonald’s Legal Chief, Other Execs
Desiree Ralls-Morrison’s pay fell 19% last year as McDonald’s cut back on short-term incentive pay for its top executives.
Jackson Walker Agrees to $617K Settlement in Second Bankruptcy Fee Dispute
This is the second publicly disclosed settlement in under a week, as numerous former bankruptcy clients have petitioned a bankruptcy judge to overturn fee and expense orders awarded to Jackson Walker. The requests follow the firm’s failure to promptly disclose a past romantic relationship between a former partner and a former bankruptcy judge.
Katten Sees 20% Spike in PEP, 10% Jump in Revenue, Reaping the Benefits of Long-Term Investments
In an interview with The American Lawyer, Katten Chairman Gil Soffer reflected on the firm’s 2024 financial performance, emphasizing a 20% rise in profits per equity partner and a 10% growth in revenue, along with other key accomplishments.
Citing Litigation Demand, Buchanan Ingersoll Grows Revenue by Almost 9%
The firm, which began 2024 with a merger with IP boutique RatnerPrestia and named a new chairman and CEO in May, generated more than $326.6 million in revenue.
Strong Demand Across Transactional Practices Led to 9.2% Revenue Boost at Foley & Lardner
“It’s been a great few years for the firm,” said Foley Chairman and CEO Daljit Doogal in an interview. “We have experienced consistent growth over the past decade.”In 2024, the firm’s revenue reached a record $1.28 billion, marking a 9.2% year-over-year increase. Revenue per lawyer rose by 6.8%, while profits per equity partner grew by 10.9%.
Sheppard Mullin Notches 33rd Consecutive Year of Revenue Growth
The firm grew profits per equity partner by 4.7% to $2.4 million in 2024.
Munger Posts 22% Revenue Rise, 38% Spike in PEP in 2024
The litigation powerhouse’s revenue per lawyer rose to $2.1 million last year, with brisk demand for mass torts, antitrust, securities and appellate matters.
‘A Record Year, by a Significant Amount’: Davis Polk Sees Revenue Surge 25%, PEP Jump to $7.8M
Firm chair Neil Barr said the firm had a “record year” across “every financial metric we measure.”
Fenwick Sees Revenue Gains Despite Dip in Fee Earners
Chair Richard Dickson said that a jam-packed litigation practice made up for softness in the tech transactional market.
Diversity & Inclusion:
On 5-4 Vote, Supreme Court Allows Education Department Freeze on DEI-Related Teacher Training Grants
In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court stated that the Trump administration is “likely to succeed” in demonstrating that a federal court lacked the legal authority to direct the Education Department to restore millions of dollars in cancelled funds for teacher training.
Once a Powerful Proponent of DEI, BlackRock Removes Term from Latest Proxy Statement
Asset manager BlackRock (BLK), once a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), is now scaling back its commitment. The company quietly removed references to its DEI goals from its annual report filed on Tuesday. BlackRock joins a growing list of firms reducing their focus on DEI, which the Trump administration has argued could potentially violate federal anti-discrimination laws.
Corporate Values, Public Risks: the GC’s Role in Navigating Today’s DEI Dilemmas
In today’s polarized environment, many companies are caught in the middle of investor lawsuits, employee discontent, political scrutiny, and consumer backlash, all while facing an uncertain path ahead.
FTI Managing Director: ‘Widely Proven That More Diverse Teams Are More Innovative’
Brandon Lee, Managing Director of FTI Technology, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Championing Diversity in Tech (Individual), discusses how legal service providers “can play an ongoing and central role in nurturing diversity in innovation” and the benefits of doing so.
Prada to buy rival fashion brand Versace for $1.36bn
Prada has reached an agreement to acquire its competitor, Versace, in a billion-dollar deal aimed at merging two of the most prominent designer fashion labels. The deal, which brings together the two iconic Italian brands, is valued at an estimated $1.36 billion (£1.06 billion), according to the Prada Group’s announcement on Thursday.
Office Openings & Closing:
A&O Shearman Launches in Chicago with Mayer Brown Duo
Chicago is now A&O Shearman’s tenth office in the United States
McDermott, Closing Singapore Office, Relinquishes Asia Presence
McDermott Will & Emery has shut down its Singapore office, marking the end of the firm’s on-the-ground presence in Asia.
Working Group Set to Reopen, Restore Harlem Problem-Solving Court
Chief Judge Rowan Wilson’s Working Group on the Future of the Harlem Community Justice Centre will focus on revitalizing and fully reopening a problem-solving court that was closed at the onset of the pandemic.
Weber Gallagher Launches New Office in Long Island
This is Weber Gallagher’s second office in New York, alongside its Manhattan location, and its 13th office overall. Leading the launch of the Long Island office is Neil Sambursky, a new partner, along with his team of eleven.
Inside Skadden’s New Abu Dhabi Office
Skadden is excited to announce the opening of its first office in the Middle East, situated in Abu Dhabi’s ADGM, the financial hub of the United Arab Emirates’ capital.
The office will be led by corporate transactional attorney Michael Hilton, who previously served as the regional managing partner for the Middle East and North Africa at a Magic Circle firm.
Brown Rudnick opens in Los Angeles with four-partner team hire – The Global Legal Post
Brown Rudnick has opened a new office in Los Angeles, launching with the addition of four partners from California-based firm Stubbs Alderton & Markiles.
The team—Daniel Rozansky, Nicholas Rozansky, Jonathan Friedman, and John De La Merced—brings a broad range of expertise across litigation, corporate law, privacy, and brand management.
Mergers & Alliances:
KPMG Partners With Google Cloud to Build Agentic AI Platforms for Legal Services Clients
KPMG LLP unveiled an expansion of its strategic AI partnership with Google Cloud, introducing modular, scalable AI solutions designed to transform business operations across industries such as legal services, banking, and more. As a key deployment partner for Google Agentspace, KPMG will assist clients in developing integrated, scalable AI platforms that enhance decision-making and efficiently manage AI agents, unlocking value through trusted and secure AI technology.
Freshfields Partners With Google Cloud to Build AI Agents, Boost AI Innovation
Freshfields has teamed up with Google to accelerate the use of generative AI across the firm, with plans to deploy Google’s Gemini platform and co-develop custom AI tools for legal and business workflows. The partnership will involve a firmwide rollout of Gemini alongside Google Workspace, integrating AI into tools such as Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google’s research and writing assistant, NotebookLM.
Private Client Firm Withers Collaborates with Australian Accounting Firm Bentleys
The partnership will involve Withers and Bentleys collaborating to provide clients with legal and accounting advice on their business, personal, and charitable matters. While the agreement is non-exclusive, the two firms will work together on client projects and marketing initiatives. This association was formed through a long-standing relationship between Withers partner Marsha Laine Dungog and Bentleys director David Laanemaa, who have observed a growing demand for cross-border services.
Addleshaw Goddard to Take Over Linklaters’ Warsaw After ‘Decisive’ Partnership Votes
Linklaters and its Warsaw partners have entered an agreement for the transfer of Linklaters’ Warsaw office to Addleshaw Goddard. Addleshaw said it does not plan to comment further before the deal is completed.
Three of South Africa’s leading law firms announced their involvement in the legal proceedings initiated by Norton Rose Fulbright (NRF) to challenge the government’s legal sector BEE code. In a joint statement, Bowmans, Webber Wentzel, and Werksmans explained that their decision to intervene is intended to ensure that any legal sector code is “evidence-based, practical, and tailored to the unique nature of the legal profession.”
European IP firms NLO and Ipsilon enter PE-backed partnership
Two prominent European intellectual property firms, the Dutch-based NV Nederlandsch Octrooibureau (NLO) and Paris-headquartered Ipsilon, have formed a “strategic partnership” supported by the pan-European investment fund Waterland Private Equity.
Moves:
APAC
Linklaters Promotes Hong Kong Partner to Lead Global Financial Regulation Group
Linklaters is pleased to announce the appointment of Carl Fernandes, partner in the Hong Kong Financial Regulation Group, as the new Global Head of the Financial Regulation Group.
EMEA
South African M&A Hiring Heats Up After A&O and Hogan Lovells Exodus
South African firms are expanding their M&A teams by poaching senior talent from rivals.
Quinn Emanuel, Freshfields Lawyers Among 11 To Join Germany’s Elite Constitutional Court
Freshfields counsel Maximilian Menn is the youngest-ever male lawyer at the elite Federal Court of Justice and the number of women on the list doubles.
King & Spalding Hires Former EU Head of Squire Patton Boggs’ Data Privacy Practice
King & Spalding has announced that Charles- Albert Helleputte has joined the firm as a partner in the Brussels office. Helleputte joins from Squire Patton Boggs.
Australia’s Mills Oakley Hires Partners from EY and K&L Gates
Tania Sibree joins Mills Oakley from EY, bringing over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, with a background in multiple jurisdictions, including the UK and Asia Pacific. Randall Gerkens, who comes to Mills Oakley from K&L Gates, brings experience in commercial property transactions, as well as commercial, industrial, residential, and infrastructure development.
Willkie Hires High-Profile Duo from Gibson Dunn’s German Antitrust Team
The firm has recently added Gibson Dunn antitrust partner Georg Weidenbach and counsel Jan Vollkammer in Frankfurt, according to sources familiar with the matter. Previously, the pair joined Gibson Dunn from Latham & Watkins.
UK & Ireland
Cleaver Fulton Rankin recruits immigration lawyer Nick Bennett
Belfast-based firm Cleaver Fulton Rankin has welcomed Nick Bennett as an associate in its Employment and Immigration department. Mr. Bennett, an immigration solicitor since 2019, brings more than 12 years of experience in immigration services. His background includes roles at the Home Office and two international professional services firms, where he specialised in this highly specialised area of law.
Latham Hires Two A&O Shearman Partners in London
Latham & Watkins is pleased to announce that Franz Ranero and James Smallwood will be joining the London office as partners in the Structured Finance Practice. Both highly respected in their field, Ranero and Smallwood frequently advise investment funds, financial institutions, and asset managers on a wide range of complex, cross-border structured finance, and structured products transactions, with a special focus on collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) and customized funding solutions.
The Americas
People in the News—April 7, 2025—Flaster Greenberg, Barley Snyder
Intellectual property attorney Danielle C. Kucera has joined Flaster Greenberg as an associate in its intellectual property department and patent practice group.
Sidley Lands Milbank M&A Partner in NYC
Sidley Austin LLP is pleased to announce that Andrew Fadale has joined the firm’s New York office as a partner in its M&A and Private Equity practice. Before joining Sidley, Fadale was a partner in the New York office of Milbank, where he was a member of their Global Corporate Group.
Cravath Private Equity Leader Heads to Sidley
Sidley is pleased to announce that Dave Perkins has joined the firm’s M&A and Private Equity group as a partner in the New York office. Perkins comes from Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, where he served as co-head of the Private Equity group.
People in the News—April 8, 2025—Gross McGinley, Antheil Maslow
Gross McGinley is pleased to announce that Hope Stakes has joined the practice as Marketing and Communications Manager.
DOJ Antitrust Attorney Carrie Syme Joins DiCello Levitt
Carrie Syme, a former trial attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, has joined DiCello Levitt’s renowned Antitrust and Competition Litigation Practice Group in New York as a partner. With decades of experience in complex litigation, government enforcement, and trial advocacy, Syme brings extensive expertise to the firm.
Bradley Arant Hires Veteran COO to Help Firm ‘Continue to Grow and Thrive’
Rance Sapen was part of Butler Snow’s leadership as the firm grew financially and geographically.
Buchalter Adds Longtime San Diego Office Leader from Gordon Rees
Kristin Reyna DeHart joins Buchalter after more than 24 years at Gordon Rees Skully Mansukhani, eight of which she spent as managing partner of its San Diego office.
People in the News—April 10, 2025—Kleinbard, Burns White
Kleinbard is pleased to announce that State Representative Jared Solomon has joined the firm as Of Counsel. With a legal career that includes expertise in securities, antitrust, and trial defence in the Army National Guard, Jared brings a wealth of knowledge across various practice areas. His experience will be a valuable addition as Kleinbard continues to expand its practice throughout Pennsylvania.
Saxton & Stump welcomes respected trial attorney Rory Connaughton as shareholder
Saxton & Stump is further strengthening its top-tier litigation team with the addition of seasoned Lancaster County trial attorney Rory O’Connaughton as a shareholder in the firm’s Commercial Litigation and Labor and Employment practices. O’Connaughton moved Brubaker Connaughton Goss & Lucarelli LLC, where he was partner.
On The Move: Eversheds Adds M&A Specialist
Mr. Phillips returns to Eversheds Sutherland after serving as Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at Argos North America Corp., a heavy construction materials manufacturer, where he was integral to the legal aspects of its dual IPO and M&A sale process. He had previously been a partner at Eversheds Sutherland from 2017 to 2023
People in the News—April 9, 2025—McNees, Faegre Drinker
McNees Wallace & Nurick has announced the addition of two new attorneys to its growing York office: Lara Bream and Steven Ahlbrandt. Prior to joining McNees, Bream worked as a professional liability claims consultant, managing complex cases from investigation through litigation. Ahlbrandt, before joining McNees, gained substantial experience in real estate law through his work as a real estate associate and law clerk.
In-House
Slaughter and May Hong Kong Partner Leaves to Join Securities Regulator as Senior Director
Wynne Mok previously did a stint at the Securities and Futures Commission before joining Slaughter and May.
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.
Team Moves
Duane Morris Hires 5 Corporate Attorneys from Nelson Mullins
Duane Morris LLP has announced that Andrew M. Tucker and Rebekah D. McCorvey have joined the firm’s Corporate Practice Group as partners, with Tucker based in the Washington, D.C. office and McCorvey in the Atlanta office. Senior associates Jon Anderson and Zalak Raval have also joined the firm’s Atlanta and Washington, D.C. offices, respectively, while associate Ana García Bodán has joined the Miami office. Prior to joining Duane Morris, all the attorneys practiced at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP.
At Least 10 Lawyers Plan Exit from Cadwalader to Sidley
Cadwalader is offering some attorneys an immediate promotion to partner and retention bonuses, sources said, but it is not clear if any of the group will choose to stay put.
Wilson Sonsini Partner Trio Takes Team to Baker McKenzie Following Beijing Closure
The move follows the announcement of Wilson Sonsini’s office closure in Beijing last month, which was the firm’s largest outpost in Greater China by partner head count.
In a clear sign of the ongoing competition for talent among South Korea’s top law firms, the renowned Big Six firm Yulchon has recently expanded its Mergers and Acquisitions team with the addition of four new partners based in Seoul. The new team consists of Sung-Jin Kim, Kayoung Kim, Hyerim Kang, and Junghwan Lee, all of whom have rejoined Yulchon as partners.
Promotions & Appointments:
Weil Promotes Litigator to Silicon Valley Co-Managing Partner
Bambo Obaro has been promoted to the Co-Managing Partner of Weil’s Silicon Valley office, a member of the firm’s national Complex Commercial Litigation practice, and a skilled trial lawyer. With over a decade of experience, Bambo has handled a diverse range of commercial issues and disputes in both state and federal courts, as well as in arbitration proceedings. Bambo Obaro has worked at Weil for more than 15 years as a commercial litigator.
Senate Confirms Paul Atkins as SEC Chair
The Senate confirmed Paul Atkins as the next Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) leader.
M&A Maven Who Helped Honeywell Make 100 Acquisitions Passing GC Role to Deputy
US conglomerate Honeywell has appointed Su Ping Lu as its new general counsel, succeeding Anne Madden, who is transitioning to a new role within the company.
Peter McNaney appointed to board of Belfast Harbour Commissioners
Solicitor and former Belfast City Council chief executive Peter McNaney has been appointed as a non-executive board member of the Belfast Harbour Commissioners.
Two promoted to partner at Taylor Wessing Ireland
International law firm Taylor Wessing has promoted Dannie Hanna and Jo Joyce to partners in its Dublin office.
Technology & Innovation:
Eversheds Sutherland’s Head of AI Discusses How the Firm Built a Risk Management Tool
Rachel Reid, Partner and Head of AI (US) at Eversheds Sutherland, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Regulatory, Governance and Compliance Technology, discusses the challenges of developing and maintaining the firm’s AI Risk Navigator tool.
Superior Court Affirms Social Media’s Regulation of Gun-Rights, Automobile Accounts
A Pennsylvania Superior Court has upheld the authority of social media platforms to manage content related to gun rights, affirming the dismissals in the case of Armslist v. Facebook. Judge Maria McLaughlin noted that the court found no evidence of the companies yielding to government pressure, instead concluding that they are exercising independent judgment to uphold community standards.
Paul Weiss’ Director of AI Innovation Strategy: Gen AI Models are not ‘Easy Button’ Solutions
Iris Skornicki, Director of AI Innovation Strategy at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Tech-Enabled Transactional Practice of the Year, discusses why automation solutions can be more practical for some clients than gen AI solutions.
George E. Phillips, Director of eData Development & Technology at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Litigation Technology, discusses how his team evolved to prioritize projects, encourage creativity and support development.
Did an AI Discriminate in Hiring? Employer Faces Lawsuit
Immunovant Inc. is accused of discriminatory hiring due to the use of artificial intelligence in the hiring process. But one legal observer said the AI claims are not well-supported and might have been included simply to attract attention.
Latham & Watkins Partner Discusses the Firm’s AI Academy, Training Efforts
Michael Rubin, partner and Global Chair of the Artificial Intelligence Practice at Latham & Watkins, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Best Tech Training Program Implementation, discusses how the firm approaches training and legal innovation.
John Wilson, Chief Information Security Officer and President of Forensics, and Rene Novoa, Vice President of Forensics, at HaystackID, which won the Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Award for Best Emerging Technology (Non-AI), discuss how they see their companies role in the industry and why the pace of innovation keeps them energized.
Nokia Sues Acer for Alleged Patent Infringement Over Video Technology
Nokia has taken legal action against Acer, Asus, and Hisense for the unauthorized use of its technologies in their devices. The PCs from Acer and Asus, along with Hisense’s smart TVs, infringe on a range of Nokia’s video coding patents. The cases have been filed in Germany and the European Unified Patent Court.
Actfore CEO: Lines Between Legal and Privacy Technologies Are Increasingly Blurred
Christian Geyer, CEO for Actfore, discusses why data mining can be crucial to cybersecurity preparedness.
Open AI countersues Elon Musk to stop alleged harassment and ‘sham’ takeover bid
On Wednesday, OpenAI filed a countersuit against Elon Musk, accusing him of a pattern of harassment and requesting a federal judge to prevent him from taking any “further unlawful and unfair actions” against the company. The legal battle revolves around the future structure of OpenAI, the organization instrumental in sparking the AI revolution.
MoFo advises SoftBank on record-breaking $40 bln OpenAI investment
U.S. law firm Morrison Foerster has advised SoftBank Group Corp. in its role as lead investor in a groundbreaking financing round of up to $40 billion for artificial intelligence trailblazer OpenAI.
Market Commentary:
Skadden, Wachtell called in for Versace’s $1.4bn sale to Prada Group
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz have been engaged to advise on the sale of Versace by Capri Holdings to Prada in a deal valued at nearly $1.38 billion in cash.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett and Paul Weiss are advising U.S. private equity firm Stonepeak on its $5.7 billion funding agreement with Woodside Energy—represented by Norton Rose Fulbright—for an LNG development project in Louisiana.
White House Moves Against State Climate Policies in New Deregulation Push
In a broad executive order signed late Tuesday, Trump directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to “halt the enforcement of state laws” related to climate change that the administration deems unconstitutional, unenforceable, or overridden by federal law.
‘Politics and Not the Facts’: Luigi Mangione’s Defence Counsel Moves to Preclude Capital Punishment
In a motion submitted on Friday, April 11, to the federal District Court in Lower Manhattan, attorneys for Mangione requested that the judge prohibit federal prosecutors from seeking the death penalty. They contended that Attorney General Pam Bondi’s decision to pursue capital punishment is “politically motivated, arbitrary, capricious, and a deviation from established death penalty procedures,” adding that it has “permanently compromised the fairness of the process.”
Skadden Makes a Strategic Play for Middle East M&A
Sovereign wealth funds and large, regional corporate clients are expected to form a significant part of Skadden’s work.
Five Major Law Firms Cut $600 Million Deals with Trump
Five of the world’s biggest law firms struck deals with Donald Trump to sidestep potential punitive executive orders, helping the former president amass $940 million in pro bono legal services. Kirkland & Ellis, Latham & Watkins, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, A&O Shearman, and Cadwalader collectively contributed $600 million through agreements that Trump revealed on his social media platform Friday.
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?
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