Moves:Moves:
UK & Ireland
Quinn Emanuel London Revenue Leaps 47% as Profits Swell
The firm’s triumph this year was ‘boosted by a material one-off success fee’, claims Richard East, Senior Partner at Quinn Emanuel’s London office.
Duo Score Roles on First London IPO of 2024
This potential IPO is set to be the primary market float in months as London grapples with a decline in its appeal as a destination for companies seeking to go public.
Two former senior government lawyers join Kingsley Napley
Senior government lawyers Natalie Cohen and Lord Carter join Kingsley Napley, strengthening the firm’s public law litigation presence.
Browne Jacobson hires William Darmody to lead corporate team
William Darmody joins Browne Jacobson as partner and head of their Irish corporate team at the UK&I firm.
Taylor Wessing hires Ryan Ferry as disputes and investigations partner
Taylor Wessing’s Dublin office welcomes senior litigator Ryan Ferry as partner.
Millar McCall Wylie appoints Chris Phillips as director
Chris Phillips joins Millar McCall Wylie as director of the Northern Irish firm.
EMEA
Veteran Paul Hastings PE Partner Jumps to French Firm August Debouzy
Paul Hasting’s move could signal a potential increase activity for Paris’ growingly competitive PE market.
Freshfields Finance Head Rejoins A&O in Middle East
Simultaneously, Clifford Chance’s head of disputes for the Middle East is acquired by CMS.
Perez-Llorca Adds Four More Partners in Lisbon
Perez-Llorca is ahead of schedule, having originally planned to launch their Lisbon office in Q1 2024, the Spanish law firm claims to already have 11 partners on the ground.
White & Case Bolsters Disputes Practice in Paris With 2-Lawyer Hire From Quinn Emanuel
This practice head and partner acquisition is set to strengthen the firm’s commercial disputes, cross-border litigation, and criminal investigations offering in Paris.
Kennedys Enters Polish Market Through Tie-Up With Warsaw Firm
Kennedys lands in Warsaw, making them the latest international law firm to expand their European presence to Poland.
CVC Capital Partners’ General Counsel Leaves Firm
Lauren Livingston leaves the European PE heavyweight following a 17-year tenure at the firm.
Bowmans Lures Team of 6 From Johannesburg Competitor
Bowmans team’s client portfolio includes liquidators, corporate entities, financial institutions and business rescue practitioners.
APAC
South Korea’s Shin & Kim Hires Senior Advisers to Launch New Offering on AI
Two Shin & Kim new hires join the group of three experienced advisers leading their latest offering.
K&L Gates Takes Two from Herbert Smith Freehills Singapore
With these latest appointments in Singapore, the firm welcomes its first aviation finance partners in the city-state. Meanwhile, Herbert Smith Freehills restructures their aviation offering, saying goodbye to their dedicated Singapore-based partners.
Clayton Utz Partner Leaves to Join Australian Insurer IAG
Karen Ingram, a disputes and litigation lawyer, joins IAG as interim general counsel.
Kirkland Corporate Veteran Duo Set to Leave Hong Kong Practice
Having joined Kirkland along with six partners in 2011, forming one of the most significant moves in Hong Kong’s legal market, David Zhang and Nicholas Norris are due to exit the practice.
Akin Hong Kong Partner Leaves to Become Independent Arbitrator
Shortly after the closure of Akin’s Beijing office, Ing Loong Yang departs the firm.
The Americas
Shearman’s Co-Managing Partner Leads Team Move to Linklaters in New York
Allen & Overy leaders set to take charge of the firm as George Casey’s team of six depart ahead of merger.
Longtime Vinson & Elkins Partner Moves to Condemnation Boutique in Houston
Charles McFarland is reunited with Vinson & Elkins partner and ex-colleague Billy Coe Dyer, at the condemnation boutique established by the former in 2015.
Dechert Loses 2 Litigation Partners Who Held Leadership Roles
David Kelley, ex-SDNY U.S. attorney and former co-head of Dechert’s white-collar practice joins O’Melveny & Myers, while chair of their tech committee, Benjamin Barnet was welcomed by Seeger Weiss.
Blank Rome Adds 5 Attorneys from Dissolving NYC White Collar Boutique
Established by two ex-SDNY assistant U.S attorneys 17 years ago, Spears & Imes terminated operations in Q4 of 2023.
Duane Morris Appoints Ex-US Attorney McSwain White-Collar Co-Chair
Duane Morris welcomes William McSwain, ex-federal prosecutor into a new role as the co-chair of their white-collar practice as they set their sights on national growth for the upcoming year.
Locke Lord Adds M&A Partner in LA With High-Profile Entertainment Clients
Locke Lord welcome Corporate and M&A partner Katy Spillers from L.A firm Greenberg Glusker Fields Claman & Machtinger as she hopes to benefit her clients with the firm’s wider resources and national coverage.
SDNY Prosecutor Moves to Sher Tremonte’s White-Collar Practice
Previously, Alison Moe was deputy chief of the U.S Attorney Office’s criminal division.
Greenspoon Marder Expands Litigation Arm in Miami With Former Saul Ewing Litigator
With previous tenures at Cozen O’Connor and Greenberg Traurig, Jeffrey Gilbert approaches almost forty years of experience in the sector.
On the Move: Former Gordon Rees Office Leader Moves to Barnes & Thornburg
Previously, Leslie served Gordon Rees’ as managing partner of its offices in Birmingham, Alabama and Jackson, Mississippi as well as co-managing partner of their Atlanta office.
Eyeing Rate Flexibility, Longtime Sidley Litigator Decamps to Midsize Manhattan Firm
Isaac Greaney, a well-known Securities litigator, has left Sidley to expand the types of work available to him as a result of more flexible rates.
Dinsmore Enters Texas by Luring 8-Lawyer Litigation Team From Lewis Brisbois
Following the rapid expansion of the Am Law 200 firm, in Florida, Dinsmore & Shohl has stated that it is applying a similar “blueprint” for Texas. This news is in accordance with the statement of their Chair, Josh Lorentz.
Dickinson Wright Scoops Up 10-Lawyer Toronto Team from Minden Gross
The U.S.-based firm’s Canadian office is anticipating the arrival of a full team of lawyers and support staff from Minden Gross.
In-House
Legal Chief at Silicon Valley Pioneer Exiting After Quarter Century with Company
According to Western Digital, Michael Ray is stepping aside “to pursue another opportunity,” this news follows the revelation that Western Digital is preparing to split itself into two.
ALM’s Grezlak Joins Furia Rubel as Legal Marketing Firm Expands Services
Grezlak joined Furia Rubel last week after an extensive career working at ALM, parent company of The Legal, for 30 years. Most recently he was editor-in-chief of legal themes, regional brands and Law.com, overseeing ALM’s U.S.-based legal newsroom.
Sony Pictures General Counsel to Exit After Three Decades with Media Giant
During her time at Sony, Leah Weil assisted the media giant in acquiring IP rights to Spiderman for a mere $7 million, obtaining MGM for $2.9 billion and recovering from a crippling 2014 cyberattack as well as much more.
GC of Liquor Juggernaut Passing Legal Reins to Deputy
After a 16-year run as legal chief of Brown-Forman, which owns the Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve brands, Matt Hammel is retiring.
HP Enterprise Veteran to Captain Legal Team at Cargo Shipper Cargill
Rishi Varma, who has been part of the team at HP Enterprise since it was borne of the computing giant in 2015, will take the legal reins over at Cargill.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—Jan. 9, 2024—Hangley Aronchick
Hangley Aronchick Segal Pudlin & Schiller is delighted to have elected Colleen Norcross as a shareholder.
King & Spalding Re-elects Robert Hays to Seventh Term as Chairman
Since Robert Hays took up the mantle of chairman of the firm in 2006, they have more than tripled its revenues and profitability and multiplied the number of offices they operates worldwide by four times.
Axinn Names DC-Based Antitrust Partner as Next Leader
The 100-lawyer firm, which is well known for its antitrust and litigation expertise, has represented numerous firms such Google, Tyson Foods, Ball Corp., Thermo Fisher Scientific and VMware. They have named Jeny Maier as their next managing partner.
People in the News—Jan. 10, 2024—Capehart Scatchard, Ogletree Deakins, Munley
Capehart Scatchard has announced that, Brian P. Berkoff; Daniel W. Klementowski; Vivian Marmaras; and Nicholas D. Stephens, who are from the firm’s workers’ compensation department, have been admitted as shareholders:
Hrelic, Marafito and Zeid Promoted to Members at Pullman & Comley
Dana Hrelic, Michael Marafito and Zachary Zeid have ascended to the position of members from the professional liability, property tax and employment law practices.
Hopeful on 2024 Market, Klehr Harrison Appoints New Real Estate Leaders
Klehr Harrison managing partner Brad Krouse stated that “These are three leaders with separate skillsets that really complement each other,” he also said that “They’re leaders in their respective practice areas, which ultimately gives us a much broader reach at the leadership level.”
Buchanan Taps Real Estate and Bankruptcy Chair as Next CEO
Pittsburgh-based shareholder James Newell will take over from Philadelphia-based Joe Dougherty in May.
M&A Lawyer Takes Second Turn as Global Chair for Norton Rose Fulbright
Walied Soliman has previously served as global chair in 2019 and has been chair of the firm’s Canadian arm since 2017.
Mergers & Alliances:
Texas-Based Ferguson Braswell Launches in Orange County Via Merger
Kyle Ferguson, CEO of Ferguson Braswell has stated the firm’s goals, which are to establish a full-service office in Costa Mesa, where there is a “strong middle-market industry” and “a lot of wealth and opportunity.”
Paladin Rings in 2024 With Pro Bono Manager Acquisition, New Partnership
This Pro Bono Manager has highlighted Paladin’s first-ever acquisition and will provide the company with the opportunity to expand its network and access more pro bono data and insights.
Barclay Damon Combines With DC-Based Shapiro, Lifschitz & Schram
Barclay Damon has been keen on the idea of expanding its footprint in the D.C. market for a considerable amount of time in an effort to advance the firm’s regulatory experience at the federal level.
Kilpatrick Merges With Chicago Law Firm, Significantly Expanding Corporate Practice
Henry Walker, CEO of Kilpatrick said that HMB’s expertise in mergers and acquisitions and private equity “enhances the depth and breadth of Kilpatrick’s corporate department,” Henry is ranked No. 90 in the Am Law 100.
Office Openings & Closing:
More Law Firms in New York Opt for Larger Spaces
Paul Weiss and King & Spalding are among the latest firms to secure new, larger spaces in New York.
Pace of Law Firm Office Leasing Picked Up in Late 2023, With More Firms Shedding Space
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner decreased its space by 73% by shedding two full floors, after acquiring a new office lease in D.C.
Cozen O’Connor Launches DEI Strategies and Solutions Practice
Group leader Simeon Brier has been reported as saying, “One of the fundamental things that we receive are clients who have solely relied on a law firm or solely relied on a consultant,” Simon Brier is based in South Florida and followed up his previous statement saying, “It’s hard to operate with the left arm not knowing what the right arm is doing.”
Marc Mukasey’s Law Firm Announces Rebrand as Mukasey Young
This change is occurring after co-founder Robert Frenchman departed and Torrey Young has been elevated to a name partner.
Financials:
As Billing Rates Soar, Law Firm Clients Move to Spread Work Around
According to a new industry report, “Many law firms have seen their ability to collect on those increasing rates falter, and clients have become more aggressive about trying to tier work to lower-cost firms”.
Top Big Law Partners Are Earning More Than $2,400 Per Hour, as Rates Continue to Climb
According to recent bankruptcy court filings, Dechert has been reported as increasing rates for top partners by 20%, while McDermott is charging top partners out at $2,590 hourly.
Law Firms Embracing ‘Hoteling’ to Save On Office Lease Costs
Workplace strategies in many law firms have been shifting; flexibility, balance, space efficiency, and attorneys/staff that work remotely more than pre-pandemic are gaining relative normality.
Paul Weiss Hides Partner Pay Inside ‘Black Box,’ as Firm Shells Out for Top Laterals
A non-transparent pay system has been adopted as firm leaders seek to decrease internal tensions as the spread of compensation develops.
Associates See a Pay Boost at Largest Law Firms, but Few May Match in Atlanta
Both Alston & Bird and King & Spalding are increasing associate pay to the top market scale, however other Atlanta-based law firms have not been confirmed to be doing the same.
Quinn Emanuel London partner profit averages £5.3m in stellar year
Quinn Emanuel’s average London partner profit has increased to £5.3m in 2023. This increase is congruent with the standout year the US litigation law firm have had.
Technology & Innovation:
Are Tomorrow’s Lawyers Prepared for Legal’s Tech Future? 4 Recent Trends Shaping Legal Education?
Advanced legal technology means little if attorneys don’t know how to use it. Whilst some key law schools are impacting change in efforts to mitigate that issue, others are falling behind in this particular area.
Automation and Algorithms: How Pierson Ferdinand Aims to Build a New Type of Law Firm
Pierson Ferdinand, a new law firm which has been launched by the managing partners from FisherBroyles recently, has sought to build legacy systems that can stay flexible enough to accommodate future needs, and automate as much non-billable work as efficiently possible.
The EU AI Act Will Transform Practices for AI Governance In the U.S.
The EU AI Act sets in writing one of the world’s first comprehensive attempts to provide governance to unlock innovation in AI. But this beckons a question that has been in the forefront of the mind of many US firms and practices, what exactly does this development mean for their businesses?
A Tale of Two Nations: How China and the United States Confront Generative AI Challenges
Legislative bodies across the world have exercised their authority to harness GenAI’s transformative power and mitigate potential risks. This divergence is exceedingly clear when we compare the GenAI laws enacted in the People’s Republic of China with the growing efforts of President Biden and Congress to react to these new challenges.
Generative AI May Be in the Spotlight, but Search Terms Still Dominate in E-Discovery
Generative AI tools are becoming more and more popular, subsequently they should be researched, studied, and ultimately embraced if proven for their ability to assist lawyers with legal tasks, however, they first must be properly and accurately trained, tested, and verified.
Diversity & Inclusion:
More Judges, Less Diversity: 92% of Kemp’s 2023 Judicial Appointments Are White
Minorities have been stated to account for 8% of state court or higher judicial appointments made by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2023. This figure is a sharp drop from 30% in 2022.
Women in Academic Leadership Still Face Systemic Barriers
“The legal academy was not built for anyone other than white males,” this was a statement made by Nicola Boothe, dean of the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, during the AALS session. She followed that statement up by saying that “there are always going to be opportunities for us to feel that we do not belong in this space.”
Many Companies Doubling Down on DEI Despite Backlash
A new study by Littler Mendelson found that companies are determined to press on with their DEI initiatives, however it also found that companies are avoiding “legally thorny” practices, for example providing incentives to executives to advance diversity.
St. John’s Law Names First Black Dean To Succeed Longtime Dean Michael Simons
The incumbent dean Jelani Jefferson Exum said in a statement, “I’m honored to serve as the next dean of St. John’s Law”.
Women Make Up the Majority of Associates for First Time
Based on figures which have been broken down in accordance to geographical location, Miami holds one of the highest percentages of female associates, their numbers constitute 55% of the associate population, Phoenix comes in at a close second, with 54% women associates, while St. Louis trailed behind in last place.
Combating the Tide of Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws and Regulations
The chair of the LGBTQ+ Law Section, Samuel W. Buchbauer, stated that “Providing a state-wide community for LGBTQ+ identified legal professionals and allies through CLE programming, live events and advocacy work strengthens our Section’s purpose to promote equality in the law for LGBTQ+ people”.
Taking Steps to Combat Antisemitism and Anti-Asian Hate
The co-chairs of the Task Force on Combating Antisemitism and Anti-Asian Hate, Brian S. Cohen and Vince Chang have been reported as saying that their “task force has focused on statutory changes to address the hate crimes crisis and the problem of Internet hate speech, responses to the underreporting of hate crimes and an educational initiative to combat racial harassment and discrimination in schools”.
Market Commentary:
How Effective are Legal Networks in the African Market?
Local firms are joining independent networks in order to remain competitive in the face of international competition, however many experts disagree on the usefulness of these legal networks.
Well-Being and Engagement: Why a Firm Needs to Prioritize Both
This article discusses the balancing of two key areas of importance namely that Law firm leaders must keep in mind the concept of engagement to create a healthy, high-achieving work environment. It discusses how “wellness and engagement are not interchangeable terms”.
In-House Lawyers May Get Chance to Dust Off Their Dealmaking Prowess in 2024
In a new report that has been published, Morrison & Foerster have been reported as saying that “Savvy companies … are expected to look for ways to effect strategies for growth, including by expanding product lines, and to enhance performance, including by divestitures, in the face of technological and other disruptions,”.
Sullivan & Cromwell Led 2023 M&A Activity in Latin America
The firm is New York-based but also ranked high in the Caribbean despite last year being a slow year globally for cross-border transactions.
Clifford Chance Mulls Lockstep Change to Better Reward Top Performers
The anticipated change is projected to help it to retain its strongest performers in an increasingly monied hiring market, many might suggest that this is an important move for them as recently, star talent has been exiting the firm.
DLA Piper leads global M&A for 14th consecutive year
According to Mergermarket’s league tables, DLA Piper is the highest-ranked legal advisor in the world for M&A deal volume they have received this accolade for the 14th consecutive year. Despite a down market for global M&A in 2023, DLA Piper continued to gain market share and completed more deals than any other firm.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Paul Weiss Hires Clifford Chance Partner Duo Amid Breakneck London Expansion
The firm has set in motion one of the fastest and highest-profile expansions in the City in recent years hiring a top PE duo, Chris Sullivan an M&A partner and Taner Hassan a Leveraged Finance Partner.
Linklaters London Capital Markets Partner Walks to Reed Smith
Linklaters lifer Mark Drury has left for Reed Smith he joins the financial industry group as a Capital Markets Partner. The move comes just days after the firm parted ways with a partner duo bound for Paul Weiss and Skadden.
Simpson Thacher Hits Travers Again for Latest London Partner Hire
Katie McMenamin a Travers lifer has joined as a Partner in Simpson Thacher’s fund finance practice. The firm is rebuilding in London following the shock exit of two long-standing partners to Kirkland & Ellis two months ago.
White & Case secures Macfarlanes partner to head London white collar team
Neill Blundell joins from Macfarlanes’ where he led the corporate crime and investigations practice.
Paul Weiss unveils latest top-level London lateral: Linklaters’ ex-antitrust head
Paul Weiss has hired Nicole Kar in London; Kar was Linklaters global head of antitrust.
EMEA
Garrigues Loses Partner to Deloitte Legal, Promotes 16 and First Female Senior Partner
Luis Collado Moreno had been at the firm for almost two decades.
King & Spalding Swipes Duo from Ashurst to Abu Dhabi
King & Spalding has hired Ashurst’s former Head of Corporate, Middle East, Simon Fraser and Senior Associate Matt Hartsuyker who is joining as a partner.
Signature signs up former Dechert arbitration partner in Paris
Philip Dunham has joined Signature Litigation as an International Arbitration Partner from Dechert, he was a member of the 13-strong arbitration team which quit Dechert last month.
APAC
HSF’s China Joint Operation Firm Disputes Head Joins Singapore Big 4 Firm
Rajah & Tann Singapore has hired Hew Kian Heong as an International Arbitration Partner in China as they celebrate 20 years of their Shanghai office.
Dorothy Siron, a long-time partner at Beijing-based Zhong Lun Law Firm, and Danny Kan, an in-house counsel from Chinese financial services group Ping An, are joining the U.K.-headquartered firm as partners in Hong Kong.
Malaysian Boutique Becomes First Local Firm to Add KC to Bench
Malaysia’s LCWP becomes country’s first firm to boast KC in ranks. Arbitration expert Ng Jern-Fei has joined Malaysian boutique Lim Chee Wee Partnership (LCWP), making the latter the country’s first law firm in Malaysia to have a King’s Counsel.
Australia’s Corrs Takes Capital Markets Partner from KWM
Jo Dodd will join the firm’s Sydney office in February. Jo is a leading Debt Capital Markets lawyer and will be joining the firm as a Partner.
Kennedys adds 12-strong insurance team in Sydney from Clyde & Co
Kennedys have bolstered their insurance offering with the hire of a team of 12 from Clyde and Co in Sydney, the move follows Lucinda Lyons ex-Clyde’s Managing Partner who moved to Kennedys in early December. The team is comprised of special counsel Con Kakakios, two senior associates, four associates, a trainee and four support staff.
The Americas
Shearman’s Co-Managing Partner Leads Team Move to Linklaters in New York
The six-person team is departing ahead of the firm’s merger with Allen & Overy, which will see A&O leaders take charge of the combined firm.
Greenberg Traurig Scoops Up Transactional Trio From Seward & Kissel
Banking, finance, and restructuring lawyer Kalyan Das has joined Greenberg Traurig LLP along with Sharon Calay and Andrew Silverstein. They join from Seward & Kissel, where Das spent over three decades and was head of the global bank and institutional finance & restructuring practice.
Epstein Becker Adds M&A Specialist to Health Care Practice in Nashville
Wes Scott joins as a Member of the Firm from Nelson Millins where he led their M&A practice. The firm’s comparatively large national healthcare practice gives him “a catalogue of resources I have never had before,” Wes Scott said.
Davis Polk, Quinn Emanuel Add Top In-House Talent to White Collar, Corporate Governance Practices
William Hochul, husband of New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, heads to Davis Polk’s White-Collar Defence & Investigations practice as a Counsel, while Quinn Emanuel hired Indigo GC Paul Dacier as Boston Partner.
Willkie adds private equity partner in Houston from Shearman & Sterling
Energy specialist Sarah McLean joins ahead of Shearman’s merger with Allen & Overy as a Partner in the Corporate and Financial Services department and Private Equity practice in Houston, Texas.
Paul Weiss M&A Co-Chair Heads to White & Case
Taurie Zeitzer has joined White & Case’s Private Equity group in New York from Paul Weiss where she was co-head of the M&A group.
In-House
Walgreens Legal Chief Departs After CEO Change
Danielle Gray is moving on one year after she helped the drugstore giant resolve opioid litigation by agreeing to pay $5.8 billion over 15 years. She will be succeeded by Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer Matthew D’Ambrosio.
Lynsey Murning Gregory is joining K3 Capital
After serving ten years with HSBC, litigation lawyer Lynsey Murning Gregory is joining K3 Capital Group & Quantuma as their General Counsel of all the entities.
Startup Veteran Joins Fintech Star Chime as Compliance Chief
Shara Chang joins Chime from proptech firm Divvy Homes, where she served as chief legal officer for more than a year, overseeing legal, compliance and HR functions. Prior to that, she was general counsel and chief compliance officer at Peach Finance, associate general counsel for privacy and product at Meta, and first product counsel at fintech Affirm.
Olympus Replaces GC Who Rebuilt Legal Function After Historic Scandal
Veteran Cigna lawyer Neil Boyden Tanner is taking the legal reins of the optics and medical company from Donna Miller. “Filling Donna’s shoes is an honour I don’t take lightly,” he said.
Longtime GC of Biotech That Discovered Leading Hep-C Cure Announces Retirement
Nathaniel Gardiner will retire at the end of March 2024, after 28 years with Entata Pharmaceuticals.
Legal Chief Who Helped Bumble Champion Reproductive Rights Exiting for New Post
During Laura Franco’s three years as chief legal and compliance officer, the Texas-based company often was in the headlines speaking out against new restrictions on abortion.
Neiman Marcus CLO to Head Legal for Newly Formed Research Behemoth
After holding key roles in banking, the home-improvement industry and retailing, Hannah Kim is taking the legal reins of Circana, an $8 billion consumer research firm formed through the merger of Information Resources Inc. and NPD Group.
Former ASOS Legal Head Moves to Thailand for Next GC Role
Anna Suchopar left her role at the clothing retailer early last year and will now head the legal team at online travel agency Agoda.
Promotions & Appointments:
Barley Snyder Elects First Female Managing Partner
Jennifer Craighead Carey took over from Jeffrey Lobach, who’d served a decade in the role, on Jan. 1.
Duane Morris Appoints West Coast Litigator as Co-Leader of Largest Practice
A Duane Morris litigator in California is now overseeing the firm’s trial practice lawyers after the Philadelphia-founded firm appointed bicoastal leadership in its largest department. Stephen Sutro, who has served as managing partner of the firm’s San Francisco office for almost a decade, succeeds Philadelphia-based Wayne Mack, who led the more than 400-lawyer trial practice group since 2018 alongside Philadelphia-based Sharon Caffrey. Caffrey will remain as co-chair while Mack takes a chair emeritus position, leaders at the firm said. The changes were effective Jan. 1.
Holland & Knight Promotes 46 to Partner, Boosting Corporate, Litigation Practices
Holland & Knight announced its latest round of partner promotions, reflecting a slight decrease in partner promotions compared to last year and a sharper focus on northeast markets.
Troutman Pepper Appoints Six New Office Managing Partners
Pennsylvania-based construction attorneys Joseph Imperiale and Robert Gallagher are now leading the firm’s Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offices, respectively, while white-collar attorney Charles Peeler will head up Atlanta. Adrienne Thompson will head up Portland, Tate Tischner Rochester and Christopher Jones Washington D.C. These appointments coincide with Amie Colby officially stepping into the role as firmwide managing partner and Tom Cole assuming the role of chair.
Half of Newly-Elected US Partners at Eversheds Sutherland in Atlanta Office
Eversheds elected eight U.S. lawyers to partner for 2024, following just one election last year.
Jones Day’s New Partner-In-Charge of Australia to Lead from Los Angeles
Trial lawyer Christopher Lovrien has been named Partner-In-Charge of the firms Australia region he will lead from the firms LA office.
Sidley, Quinn, Cadwalader Announce Latest Global Partner Promotions
Cadwalader, Quinn and Sidley have announced which partners have made the cut.
Linklaters’ China Joint Operation Firm Elects New Managing Partner
Richard Gu replaces Eric Liu who recently defected to Beijing-based Haiwen & Partners.
Baker Botts Reshuffles Non-US Leadership, Appoints London Head
The appointments include new heads in Dubai and Riyadh.
Al Tamimi Appoints New Managing Partner
Jody Waugh replaces Samer Qudah, who served in the position for four years. Jody Waugh has been with the firm for over 16 years and prior to his appointment was Head of Banking and Finance.
BonelliErede Names New Management Board and Promotes 7 to Partnership
The moves are part of a previously announced leadership transition to shepherd the Global 200 firm through the implementation of a new multi-year strategic plan starting in January.
Latham & Watkins’ Mark Austin Awarded CBE in New Year Honours List
A small number of legal professionals, including the GC of Standard Chartered bank, a Doughty Street chambers barrister and a senior lawyer at the SFO, were also recognised in the 2024 list.
Mergers & Alliances:
Personal Injury Firm McLaughlin & Lauricella Set to Join Feldman Shepherd
Almost two years after firm co-founder Slade McLaughlin’s death by suicide, managing partner Paul Lauricella is moving his firm’s practice over to the Philadelphia personal injury mainstay.
Law Firm Mergers Began With a Boutique Bash. Will the Party Continue in 2024?
A&O’s tie-up with Shearman could be a harbinger of more U.K.-headquartered firms expanding into the U.S.
Office Openings & Closing:
China’s Han Kun Breaks into U.S Market with New York Office Launch
Earlier this year, the firm made its international debut via a launch in Singapore.
Japan’s TMI Associates Launches New Indonesian Office With Local Alliance
TMI Associates, one of Japan’s largest law firms, opened an office in Paris earlier this year.
Akin Winds Down Beijing Office
Akin will continue to practice in Hong Kong and Singapore, its two other offices in Asia.
Paul Weiss Signs 765K-SF Lease in Midtown Manhattan
This is the largest office lease in the US for the year, according to the owners.
Looking Back at the Law Firms That Didn’t Survive 2023
From Stroock to Schnader, firms that failed struggled with common issues of recruitment, retention and financial obligations.
China’s Han Kun Breaks into U.S Market with New York Office Launch
Earlier this year, the firm made its international debut via a launch in Singapore.
Japan’s TMI Associates Launches New Indonesian Office With Local Alliance
TMI Associates, one of Japan’s largest law firms, opened an office in Paris earlier this year.
Peruvian Tax Law Boutique Opens Office in Spain
Zuzunaga & Assereto Abogados has launched an outpost in Barcelona—its first outside Peru.
Former FisherBroyles practice leaders take 130 lawyers for new spin-off firm
Pierson Ferdinand among largest law firm debuts in US history. Two former practice leaders at FisherBroyles have left to set up a new firm, taking more than 130 lawyers with them in a move they say marks one of the largest law firm debuts in US history.
Quinn Emanuel Plots Wilmington Office Opening, Hiring Local Counsel to Lead
Michael Barlow’s history of working with Quinn Emanuel’s litigators as Delaware counsel includes representing clients Mirae Asset Global Investments and Snow Phipps Group in the first two COVID-19 “busted deal” cases to go to trial.
Financials:
Georgia GC Compensation Remains Strong Following COVID-19 Decrease
“As in 2021, I think 2022 was also a great year financially for a lot of companies,” said Bob Graff, an Atlanta-based in-house recruiter and a partner with Major, Lindsey & Africa. “The stock market did pretty well last year. It’s not surprising that people met or exceeded their bonus targets and met or exceeded their equity targets.”
A&O and Shearman Offer Partners Financial Incentive to Stay with Combined Firm
The merger of the two firms is due to formally take effect in May 2024, with 99% of partners at both firms approving the plans in October.
Clifford Chance Top Earner Pockets Less as Staff Numbers, Costs Swell
The firm’s total number of partners and staff costs rose, as it continued to grapple with its pension liability, the latest LLP accounts show.
Eversheds Top Earner Pay Surpasses £3 Million, LLPs Show
The US arm of the firm has also made eight promotions across its American offices.
Technology & Innovation:
CMS’ Spanish Arm Becomes Latest Victim of LockBit Cyber Attack
The same attackers were behind a data breach at Allen & Overy last month, with experts at the time suggesting the firm may have to pay out several million to avoid confidential information being published.
Hackers Increasingly Infiltrate Software While It’s Still in Development—Before Guard Is Up
“Not only is this terrifying because it can happen to any organization that’s building software, but it’s actually also incredibly difficult to detect,” said Dan Draper, founder of CipherStash.
Morgan Lewis to Shape Thomson Reuters AI Products Through New Partnership
“We’re going to be working with [Thomson Reuters] on a whole suite of AI-powered tools,” said chief knowledge and management and practice services officer Colleen Nihill. “Because of Morgan Lewis’ depth and breadth across multiple geographies, I think they saw us as being well suited to all different use cases.”
As AI Hype Train Rolls On, Regulators on High Alert for ‘AI Washing’
“One thing we know about hot marketing terms is that some advertisers won’t be able to stop themselves from overusing and abusing them,” FTC attorney Michael Atleson wrote in a blog post.
Embracing Innovation: 7 Major Law Firm Tech Developments in 2023
From a host of law firm-created generative AI chatbots to new innovative client offerings and the launch of another law firm legal tech subsidiary, this year showed that law firms are confidently embracing their place in the legal technology market.
Allen & Overy Partners with Harvey, Microsoft to Create ContractMatrix Tool
Over 1,000 of the firm’s lawyers are already using the tool internally, and five clients have already agreed terms for a January launch, the firm said.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Why Jews Belong Under The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Umbrella
“Including Jews under the DEI umbrella would accomplish three things. First is education. Providing more knowledge could bring more understanding. Second is bridging differences. Fostering communication will help build relationships and facilitate productive dialogue. Third is community. Jews need a safe space to connect and explore the range of experiences we are facing.”
Market Commentary:
Turnover in Big Law Leadership Manifests as ‘Great Growth Race’ Kicks Into High Gear
At least 30 large law firms have announced some kind of leadership transition within the last year or so. “It’s been an exciting but challenging and exhausting few years,” noted one Am Law 100 leader.
Going Beyond Fear: The Next Phase in Addressing Attorney Mental Health
In 2012, I tried to take my own life and then learned that I had been for, well, a long time, been dealing with undiagnosed and untreated bipolar disorder. Along the road to my attempt, I did some unethical things, and consequently had some time away from the law.
Corporate Transparency Act: Effect on Middle Market Mergers and Acquisitions
Given the CTA’s sweeping scope and the extensive information required for compliance, the new legislation will undoubtedly have significant impacts on middle market M&As moving forward.
Are You ESG-Prepared? Statistically Speaking, Probably Not!
“This growing focus on ESG is likely linked to the pandemic and climate crisis, so that investors and policymakers have realized the importance of at least tracking ESG-related data and metrics as they struggle to adapt to a rapidly changing world,” Pacesetter Research analyst Ruth Sierra said.
Canadian Deal Lawyers Confident They’ll Be Busier in 2024
While 2023 had fewer transactions than the past few years, they were more complex and required more lawyer hours to complete.
The Best Advice We Heard From GCs in 2023
With top in-house lawyers increasingly being part of the C-suite, they bring more to the table than just their legal expertise. Efficient knowledge sharing is essential in that process.
8 Stories That Changed the Legal Industry in 2023
From A&O Shearman to Israel-Gaza—here are our picks for the biggest stories of the year.
Law Firms Seek Flexibility in Revised Partner Comp Systems, Balancing Seniority With Productivity
Though firms have different approaches, the momentum in partner compensation is heading toward merit-based rewards to compete for rainmakers and grow profitability.
In 2023, Group Lateral Moves Proved Economy-Proof as Firms Advanced Strategic Growth
“The big group moves are driven by the stars that are part of those groups,” said Macrae recruiter Justine Donahue. “The high rainmakers can command a group to move with them based on their clients and their brand name.”
New Year, New GCs: These Companies Have Fresh Top Lawyers
Big names such as Walmart and Smithsonian, generative artificial intelligence innovators and more will ring in the new year with new legal department leadership.
Find out who topped the rankings and scooped all the accolades in 2023—hardly the most straightforward year on record.
Sachdev to Shawyer: The UK’s Most Influential Hires of 2023
The year was awash with team hires, star exits and English law debuts, as certain big-name moves even prompted the industry to question one particular firm’s very survival.
Senior Partners—Retention, Not Cyber Crime, Is Your Biggest Issue in 2024
Cyber threats are real and dangerous—but good old fashioned retention is number one, and goes to the very heart of your firm’s success and survival, writes The Global Lawyer.
‘Without It, Some May Have Left’: Slaughters Associate Illuminates Firm’s Reduced Hours Policy
The scheme, which goes firmwide this week, offers associates “a real chance to reset their career”, said Michael Craig, a disputes and investigations associate
The year 2023 was a dynamic and competitive one for the big law market, as firms sought to expand their capabilities, attract top talent and increase their profitability. Here are some of the key trends and developments that shaped the legal landscape in 2023.
Lateral hires: The demand for experienced lawyers remained high, especially in practice areas such as corporate, litigation, intellectual property, antitrust and regulatory. Many firms made strategic lateral hires to strengthen their existing teams, enter new markets or diversify their services. Some of the notable lateral moves in 2023 were:
– Chris Thel and team of 6 others joined K&L Gates as partners in the corporate and private equity practice, after leaving Dentons. Thel and team are all leading Corporate lawyers who are recognised as leaders in the private equity, tax, M&A/transactions, and benefits and exclusive compensation areas.
– Michael Urschel and a team 9, 2 partners and 7 associates left King & Spalding to join Milbank in the Structured Finance Practice. Urschel’s group is renowned for focuses on whole business and digital securitisations.
– Neel Sachdev was unarguably one of the biggest London lateral moves this year, hailed as one of London’s last rainmakers he left Kirkland to Paul Weiss this was one of the biggest power grabs with Neel and team resigning on an August Sunday, this saga of moves between the two firms has had us gripped since August and the dust is still yet to settle, the current count is 35 lawyers following Neel with the latest two moving last week.
Financials: The big law market continued to grow in 2023, as firms reported higher revenues, profits and profits per partner (PPP). According to the American Lawyer’s annual ranking of the top 100 U.S. law firms by revenue, the total revenue of the Am Law 100 increased by 7.5% to $115 billion, while the average PPP rose by 8.2% to $2.7 million.
PwC UK summarised that the legal sector as a whole has had a very strong year with firms achieving an average of 8-10% fee income growth and firms remaining largely optimistic about future growth. However, the last year has continued to be turbulent with ongoing macroeconomic volatility, increasing cost pressures, and high inflation. Next year, pricing will remain a key focus area as cost pressures could lead to a fall in profits.
Mergers: The big law market witnessed several mergers and combinations in 2023, as firms sought to enhance their global presence, broaden their practice areas, and leverage their synergies. Some of the major mergers and combinations in 2023 were:
– Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling was the biggest merger of 2023, the deal is worth $3.4 billion and created one of the largest legal practices in the world with approximately 3950 lawyers and 800 partners across 48 offices. This huge transatlantic deal is expected to close in May 2024.
– Holland & Knight were the first big 2023 merger when in January it was announced that they would be merging with Nashville based Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis. The deal created a firm of nearly 2000 lawyers operating under the Holland & Knight name, as a firm that has consistently grown through mergers it will be very interesting to see where Holland & Knight grows next.
– Fieldfisher announced December of this year that they would be ending their seven-year arrangement with Italy’s SASPI, due to ‘’strategic objectives no longer being closely aligned”, does this mean that we should expect to see a new merger or alliance from Fieldfisher next year in the region?
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Quinn Emanuel Bolsters London Base with MoFo Partner Hire
Although this firm rarely hires partners in London, they have added a new arbitration partner, Gemma Anderson.
Paul Weiss and Skadden Swoop on Linklaters Partner Duo
Linklaters have made many notable hires in recent months, but the loss of Nicole Kae and Noel Hughes is unlikely to go unnoticed.
Ireland’s Matheson Strengthens London Ranks with Former Kirkland Partner
After a 15-year stint with Kirkland & Ellis, Rory Mullarkey joins the firm’s London base.
McDermott Bolsters London Partnership with King & Spalding Hire
This hire comes not long after another partner joined from Kirkland & Ellis.
Skadden makes second finance hire this month
Noel Hughes has been added to bolster Skadden’s finance and M&A offering. This is the second move after Sebastian FitzGerald joined their leveraged finance team.
Paul Weiss Snags Linklaters’ Global Antitrust Head in London
This article discusses how Nicole Kar has been hired to head Linklaters’ global antitrust team. This has been described as a major and unprecedented move.
Reed Smith secures capital markets partner in London from Linklaters
To bolster their capital markets offering in London, Reed Smith has hired Mark Drury from Linklaters.
EMEA
Pérez-Llorca Builds Up Lisbon Operation With 17 Hires
The Lisbon office has received a bolster with a team of ten lawyers, six partners and one counsel.
Baker McKenzie Looks to Hengeler for Latest Germany Partner Hire
This move will be the third time Baker McKenzie have poached a partner from Hengeler Mueller in the last three years.
Is Poland the Next Growth Market for Multinational Law Firms?
Recent developments across a multitude of areas have helped drive the legal scene in Poland. This information comes directly from practicing legal partners in Warsaw.
Clyde & Co raids Dentons for Poland debut with 20-strong team
Out of this team of over 20 lawyers looking to open Clyde & Co’s Warsaw office, two of them are former Dentons lawyers and one is a current Dentons lawyer.
APAC
China’s DeHeng Law Offices Add Paul Hastings Partner in Hong Kong
This follows the trend that many Chinese Law firms have adopted of making concerted efforts to add partners from international law firms.
Pillsbury Replenishes Hong Kong Office with Newly Promoted Partner
Michelle Ng, a counsel who specialised in disputes has relocated from New York to Hong Kong.
This article is a compilation of some of the most recent lateral moves across Asia.
Former Davis Polk Partner Becomes Hong Kong Exchange’s First Woman Chief Executive
Bonnie Chan has been with the firm since 2010 and helped launch their Hong Kong office, now she is stepping up to the position of Chief Executive.
Baker McKenzie US Securities Partner Leaves Australian Practice
According to the sources within the firm, Cécile Baume is leaving to pursue other opportunities.
The Americas
Seyfarth Gets 5 White-Collar Lawyers, Including Practice Co-Chair, From Dissolving Stroock
James McGrath, the national chair of the firm’s litigation department has stated that they are “excited that this group of litigators has chosen to continue their careers at Seyfarth, where they can take advantage of our platform”.
Baker Botts Boosts Energy Transition Team with Shearman ‘Superstar’ in NY
Energy and Infrastructure partner Mona Dajani has moved to Baker Botts’ New York office from Shearman & Sterling to serve as their global co-chair of energy infrastructure and hydrogen.
Midsize Moves: Arnall Hires New Partner; Archer Appoints Partner Pair in Philadelphia
Elizabeth B. Davis has been hired as a partner in Arnall Golden Gregory’s environmental and health care groups. Also, Hodgson Russ has announced that they have acquired a team of 10 Ward Greenburg attorneys from Rochester, New York who will start on the 1st of January.
McDermott Welcomes Back Litigation Partner Following Stint with Miami-Dade County
Audrey Pumariega has been welcomed back with open arms after spending some time working on personal injury cases for the county.
The number of attorneys that are being hired and promoted this week show us that change is occuring in New York.
King & Spalding Adds McKool Smith IP Litigator in Austin
Alfonso Chan has joined King & Spalding as partner after being a principal with McKool Smith.
Dentons’ Global CEO to Stand Down Next Year
Elliot Portnoy’s has made a solid impact on the firm which in turn has caused it to grow rapidly into one the world’s largest legal practices.
Many moves are covered in this piece including the return of Epstein Ostrove to Fox Rothschild.
People in the News—Dec. 14, 2023—McNees
Charis Mincavage a well-known energy lawyer has been announced as McNees Wallace & Nurick’s newest member starting from January 1st, 2024.
In-House
For Newly Hired Pinterest GC, Path to Post ‘Has Been Anything But a Straight Shot’
Newly hired General Counsel Michele Lee has spoken about the trials and obstacles that she faced in her journey saying, “I’ve faced countless rejections and times when I’ve been told I wasn’t ready, I was too ambitious, not smart enough, too nice, or not nice enough”.
New Noom CEO Hires GC of Pennsylvania-based Meet Group
Incumbent Norman Petty has been praised by CEO Geoff Cook for his uncanny “ability to balance legal risk with the strategic needs of the business.”
On Heels of SurveyMonkey’s Sale, CLO Joins Star Data-Analytics Startup
Grafana Labs’ legal department will now be under the leadership of Lora Blum.
Promotions & Appointments:
PLW People in the News—Dec. 12, 2023—King Spry, Ogletree Deakins
Senior Counsel Brian J. Taylor has been named chair of the King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul law firm’s investigations and compliance services team. He will assume this position in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
Marshall Dennehey Announces New Casualty Practice Director
Howard Dwoskin will be replaced by Matthew Schorr as Casualty Practice Director, the largest department in the firm.
Increased Promotions for Jones Day and Norton Rose Fulbright
In the case of Norton Rose Fulbright, most of these promotions hailed from London, whereas in the case of Jones Day the promotions were primarily a mix of New York and Cleveland based ones.
5 New Georgia Judges: Kemp Makes Appointments to Superior Court Benches
Five lawyers have been appointed in the Atlanta, Cherokee, Coweta, Dougherty and Macon judicial circuits.
Jones Day names 51 new partners
Global firm Jones Day has announced that there will be 51 lawyers who will be promoted to the partnership. This action will take effect on the 1st of January 2024.
Sidley promotes 29 to partner in latest US-dominated round
Although this number is a step down from last years cohort of 42 lawyers, these promotions should strengthen the firm’s commercial litigation, global finance and corporate practices.
Arthur Cox appoints Ciaran Flynn to head governance team
Former KPMG director Ciaran Flynn has been appointed as Arthur Cox’s new head of governance, risk and compliance.
Sarah Reynolds takes reins of Kane Tuohy LLP
Sarah Reynolds has succeeded Cómhnall Tuohy as the managing partner of Kane Tuohy LLP, she will assume this role at the beginning of 2024.
Mergers & Alliances:
Eying Phila. for Growth, 3 Am Law Firms Pick Their Own Paths to Make a Mark in Established Market
Barnes & Thornburg, Goodwin Procter and Clark Hill have all been making moves through the form of mergers to make their mark in already established markets.
Auto Lender Ally’s Legal Chief Trades Up for CLO Post at NC-Based Truist
Truist was created following the merger of BB&T and SunTrust. Scott Stengel will be taking on the position of legal chief.
Miami Boutique Haber Law Absorbs Smaller Firm, Expanding into Niche Condo Practice
Haber Law managing partner David Haber said there are a couple of options for growth, “You can organically grow, which is very painful,” or “you can join forces with someone else that already has that infrastructure.”
Office Openings & Closing:
Haynes and Boone’s New Austin Office Boasts Location on Lady Bird Lake, High-Tech Amenities
Opting to stay downtown in Austin, Haynes and Boone have relocated to a state-of-the-art new tech office.
Financials:
How Some Big Law Firms Can Afford Associate Salary Raises
Following the recent trends of associate salary raises this article delves into how these global firms are offering such as salary scale and analyses the trends in PEP amongst them.
Logistics Industry Bankruptcy Cases: Yellow Corporation, Western Global Airlines
This article focuses on recent logistics industry bankruptcy cases of Western Global Airlines and Yellow Corporation.
Technology & Innovation:
The Fire Behind the Smoke: Understanding the Realities of Using AI to Improve ROI
Although it is undeniable that AI can improve efficiency, some are arguing that unfocused investments can expose inaccurate and misleading information.
Legal Professionals, AI and the Future of M&A Dealmaking
A dive into the potential challenges and benefits that the use of new forms of AI could have on M&A dealmaking.
EU’s New AI Act Will Create Wave of Work for Law Firms
New AI legislation that is being agreed on will generate extensive work for Big Law in the years to come.
Navigating the Tech Landscape in 2024: What Law Firms Should Expect
Adopting a mindset of agility and proactivity are key ways law firms can position themselves for success in today’s technology driven society.
Baker McKenzie AI Expert on Why the EU’s AI Act May Have Limited Impact
Lothar Determann discusses whether EU disciplinary compliance to AI is possible.
Legal’s Tech Maturity Isn’t (Yet) Meeting the Moment
Although it is undeniable that legal teams have become more tech savvy recently, many argue that tech maturity has not yet leapfrogged to meet the moment.
Diversity & Inclusion:
As Antisemitism Increases on social media, Some Look to Bar Groups to Wade In
Eric Wietz of The Weitz Law Firm stated that “We believe we need to stand up when people in our own community, in the legal community, engage in antisemitic hate speech”.
Incoming Phila. Bar Chancellor Aims to Ramp Up Organization’s DEI Efforts
Jennifer Coatsworth stated that she is “incredibly proud” of their association, but they have “more to accomplish”.
Allen & Overy, Sullivan & Cromwell Among Firms To Make It On Standard Chartered Diversity Task Force
A new task force has been launched by the bank’s head of legal in the hopes that they will improve diversity in the industry.
Quinn Emanuel makes up 14 partners in round dominated by women
Out of the 14 partners that have been promoted by Quin Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, 70% of them are women.
Market Commentary:
‘Tough-Guy’ Mentality Of Leadership Is Changing As Young Lawyers Shift Career Expectations
This article debunks myths about the habits and practices of up-and-coming lawyers and the impacts they are set to make.
Debate Over Third-Party Presence and Recording Devices at Defense Medical Examinations
This article discusses the methods and process of which the defence can have the plaintiff examined in product liability and personal injury cases.
The Challenge of Defending Product Liability Claims Arising From Workplace Injuries
Questions have arisen about how easy it is for equipment manufacturers to escape liability in cases where employees are injured while using powerful pieces of equipment in a contrary manner. This article discusses this.
Recruiting and Retaining Talent: Advantages of a Two-Tier Partnership Structure
It seems that many are arguing that the one tier partnership model has had its time and that in the current market, competitive challenges call for a two-tier partnership structure.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Slaughter and May Senior Partner Steve Cooke to Take Up PR Role at Brunswick
It is the most recent example of a high-profile corporate lawyer pivoting to public relations ahead of retirement.
One In One Out for Willkie, Amid Year-End UK Hiring Rush
The firm has hired Latham’s former global vice chair of restructuring but lost a banking partner, a former rugby player, to Skadden Arps. Skadden has added leveraged finance specialist Sebastian FitzGerald as a partner in its banking group, the firm said.
EMEA
Bowmans Takes Banking and Finance Partner from DLA Piper in Johannesburg
Pride Jani was a director for the last five years of the seven years he was with DLA Piper.
Jones Day Takes a Finance Partner in Paris From Orrick
The partner hire is a strategic move as both firms, along with others, are building their capabilities in energy and infrastructure projects in France.
CEE Firm Schoenherr Adds 23-Lawyer Team in Poland
The expansion by the Austria-based firm is a bet on continued growth in the Polish economy, which has attracted investors and law firms in recent years.
BCLP to Launch Luxembourg Desk in Paris Office With A&O Hire
The firm is joining others in establishing a presence in the European center of investment funds and their regulation.
APAC
Shook Lin & Bok Takes Four Lawyers from Withers in Singapore
Kenneth Szeto moves over with senior associate John Tan joining the partnership.
Two More Clyde & Co Australian Partners Defect, Join Local Firm
Marcus O’Brien and Jacinta Long join Meridian Lawyers.
HFW Poaches Baker McKenzie Climate Lawyer in Sydney
Ruth Dawes latest hire as HFW continues to expand.
The Americas
Sidley Hires A&O’s Los Angeles Head to Further Bolster Energy Practice
Andrea Lucan, who was LA office managing partner for Allen & Overy, joins roughly one month after Greg Lavigne, another A&O alternative energy alum, joined Sidley in New York.
Spanish Firms Cuatrecasas, ECIJA Recruit More Partners in Latin America
Cuatrecasas has hired an M&A veteran from a top Chilean law firm in Santiago and a regional tax leader from EY in Bogotá, while ECIJA has added a labor and employment partner who will lead that practice in Mexico City.
Moving to Diversify Practices, Cahill Adds M&A, Corporate Advisory Partners From Stroock
“Ultimately, as part of our strategy moving forward, the firm wants to diversify,” said incoming co-chair Herb Washer. “Diversify the client base, the practices, areas of expertise.”
Sidley Adds ‘Another Dimension’ to Energy Practice With Arrival of A&O LA Leader
Andrea Lucan, who was LA office managing partner for Allen & Overy, joins roughly one month after Greg Lavigne, another A&O alternative energy alum, joined Sidley in New York.
Nelson Mullins Gains 7-Lawyer Group From Lathrop, Further Boosting Product Liability Team
The firm gains lawyers in Texas and California, but “probably more important than the geographic location is the skill set that [Robert Thackston] brings as a lawyer of last resort, first-chair trial lawyer,” said firm leader Jim Lehman.
A&O Sees Another LA Partner Exit, as Kirkland Adds to PE Bench
Josh Birenbaum’s departure was the second partner move from A&O in LA announced Monday, with Sidley touting the addition of former A&O office managing partner Andrea Lucan.
Two Veteran DOJ Lawyers Depart for K&L, as Firm Seeks to Boost Government Practices
They are the latest attorney departures from the federal agency ahead of a presidential election year.
Sheppard Mullin Lands Two Real Estate Finance Attorneys From Stroock
“Having been forced into a move, we wanted to be very thoughtful about the next place we went to,” said Lorie Soares Lazarus, a new Sheppard Mullin partner.
As Big Law Consolidation Heats Up, Husch Blackwell Adds IP Boutique Lawyers
The IP boutique “brings a really strong medical device IP practice, which allows us to deliver more for our healthcare and life sciences type of clients,” said Paul Eberle, Husch’s chief executive officer.
In-House
Volvo to Switch Gears in Legal with New General Counsel
Helen Hu is taking the legal reins of the automaker, succeeding Maria Hemberg, whom Hu calls her mentor.
KPMG UK General Counsel to Step Down
The move comes after KPMG’s UK arm settled a long-running dispute that followed the collapse of contracting company Carillion.
Gas Company Parts Ways With GC, Hires Visa Veteran as Successor
CNX is providing a severance package to Alexander Reyes, who is stepping aside after 16 years with the company. His replacement is Timothy Bedard.
After Bruising Year, Vice Media Picks Insider for GC Role
Jason Guberman is sliding into the GC’s seat as the company, now with slimmed-down ambitions, fights for profitability.
Macy’s Taps Retail Star to Helm Legal Department
The retail giant’s incoming CEO, Tony Spring, said new legal chief Tracy Preston has “a track record of aligning legal and risk mitigation approaches with business objectives and brand missions.”
GC Who’s Built Career on Disruption Jumps Aboard Grammarly
Newly hired legal chief Jennifer Miller “will help us navigate business risks with precision, especially in areas like AI and privacy regulations,” CEO Rahul Roy-Chowdhury said.
Promotions & Appointments:
Linklaters Names Singapore Partner as India Head
Various law firms are attempting to service India-related work from Singapore as they seek to win work in the world’s fifth-largest economy.
Stephenson Harwood Elects First New Senior Partner in 12 Years
According to a source, the winner overcame a contested election. Paul Thwaite has been elected as the new senior partner. Paul succeeds Roland Foord, who steps down after 12 years in the role at the end of April 2024.
Boies Schiller Flexner Names Matthew Schwartz as Chair-Elect
Schwartz, who has served as co-managing partner of the firm for three years, will replace David Boies starting in 2025.
Norton Rose Appoints Emerging Technologies Partner as San Francisco Partner-in-Charge
Jason Novak, the firm’s new partner-in-charge in San Francisco, will oversee the office’s transition into a new workspace.
Squire Patton Boggs Elevates Miami-Based Partner to Serve on Global Board
“The next four years are about the betterment of the firm and using my abilities and what I bring to the table to help the firm and continue the upward trajectory of the firm and its strategic vision,” litigator Digna French said.
Citing Health-Related Reasons, Proskauer’s Chair to Step Down
Proskauer will have an election to fill Steven Ellis’ position in January, with the newly elected chair taking the reins in April 2024, according to managing partner Daryn Grossman.
New Arnall Golden Gregory Leader Looking to Build on Predecessor’s Work
Jonathan Eady will transition to serve as the firm’s chairman, succeeding Glenn Hendrix.
Mergers & Alliances:
How Nelson Mullins Got Ahead of Miami’s Boom by Moving in Via Merger
“By virtue of that combination, Nelson Mullins had connectivity throughout the state immediately, had productive lawyers producing and a profitable day one,” said Miami partner John Haley.
Salt Lake Sees More Big Law Interest, as Spencer Fane Enters Through Merger
“We do not have a business plan or profit formula that requires the four-figure rates that some of the other firms entering that market are probably expecting,” chair Pat Whalen said.
Office Openings & Closing:
Winston & Strawn Becomes Latest to Close in Hong Kong
The firm follows several others in closing offices in Asia in 2023, amid a slow transactional market and numerous political tensions.
EY’s Hong Kong Law Practice to Shutter in January 2024
There are four lawyers at LC Lawyers. None will remain within the EY network.
China’s Tahota Law Firm Grows with Laos Office Launch
The firm intends to continue its expansion overseas.
Financials:
Year-End Bonuses Top $300K for Several Boies Schiller Associates
The litigation shop’s formula compensation system rewards associates for originating clients and contributing to contingency cases.
2024 to Upend the Salary Applecart
The recent drama involving OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Microsoft caught my attention not only for the entertaining corporate governance drama…it also got me thinking about compensation.
Will the Economic Crunch Give Alternative Fee Arrangements a Needed Nudge?
Maybe, just maybe, this interest rate-driven crunch will be the nudge that finally gives clients and firms the incentive to increase the adoption of alternative fee arrangements.
Trial Firms Starting to Match or Exceed Big Law Salary, Bonus Scales for Associates
Litigation boutiques and other small firms compete for the same top law students as Big Law, so they are likely to move to the new, higher market salary and bonus scales for associates.
Full Circle: Milbank Matches Latest Associate Pay Scale
Milbank’s mid and senior associates are getting another pay raise.
Why Elite Trial Firms Compete in the Associate Salary and Bonus Game
A whole host of trial-centric firms have met or exceeded the Big Law scale set by Cravath, Swaine & Moore. Here’s a look at how and why.
On Top of Matching Pay Raises, Arnold & Porter Offers Higher Bonuses for High-Performers
Associates who billed 2,400-2,499 hours will receive an additional 10% bonus, while the firm will pay more for those who bill higher.
Seven Key Metrics to Evaluate Spend on Outside Counsel
Gartner experts have prepared seven example metrics that legal leaders can use to inform their external provider management and align it with their organization’s overall strategy. The following examples provide a framework for assessing needs and working with vendors and/or internal teams to build similar reports.
Technology & Innovation:
Europe Grows Its Own AI Legal Tech
Jimini AI, which is based on European law, is currently being tested by leading law firms in France, including Gide Loyrette Nouel, and by in-house legal departments, including the French logistics company CMA CGM.
Enough Is Enough: Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Tech for Firms?
Smokeball’s 2024 State of Law Report found that firms’ adoption of artificial intelligence will likely depend on their size, use cases and practice areas.
California’s Draft AI Rules Offer Protections for Consumers, More Questions for Businesses
“I think we expected the large rubrics,” said Shannon Yavorsky, head of Orrick’s global cyber privacy and data innovation practice. “What I didn’t expect was the level of detail around some of the carve-outs and the broad, broad definitions that are drawn in.”
As AI Disclosures Proliferate, Can Legal Agree on What AI Means?
Some worry that the biggest challenge with generative AI disclosures will be around how to craft a definition that accurately encapsulates the types of tools that parties have in mind, instead of a catch-all that casts too wide a net.
For Legal Tech Providers, How Easy Is It to Switch Generative AI Models?
Even for companies that have built in an architecture that allows them to switch out large language models, doing so is not always a straightforward, or quick, endeavour.
Diversity & Inclusion:
The Voice for Women in Law—Roberta Liebenberg, Fine Kaplan & Black
Roberta Liebenberg, one of The American Lawyer’s 2023 Lifetime Achievement honourees, has blazed a path not only in the antitrust bar, but for women attorneys everywhere.
Over 90 Law Firms Commit to Creating More Inclusive Profession for Lawyers with Disabilities
One in five U.S. workers identifies as having a disability, but lawyers currently self-identify at a rate of 1.4%, per Diversity Lab.
How Should Midsize Firms Navigate DEI Landmines?
DEI pushback and lawsuits have so far targeted the “lowest hanging fruit,” so tidying up policy language and reviewing organizational values can prepare firms for scrutiny.
Market Commentary:
Clients or Partners? Who Does a Big Law Merger Have to Please More?
Law firm strategy is driven by appealing to clients and partners, but one of those two components is ultimately more important than the other to make a merger successful, Hugh Simons and Kent Zimmerman explain in this piece.
Long Hours, Very Little Research: An Expert View on Law’s Wellbeing Problem
A wellbeing expert explains how the legal industry’s toxic mix of intense, long hours combined with a lack of research on its effects can lead to unethical decisions as well as other problems.
‘It Just Isn’t Worth My Time’ Say Slaughter and May Associates of Pro Bono
The associates say they work long hours just to do their regular work and that there’s no time for hours on pro bono.
From A&O Shearman to India: What We’ll Still Be Talking About in Five Years’ Time
The last 12 months have given the industry law firm collapses, splits, ransomware attacks and scandals, but the year will be remembered for other things, writes the Global Lawyer.
Competition Regimes on the Rise in Africa, Ambitious Authorities and the Struggle to ‘Keep Up’
While it is not without challenges, the proliferation of antitrust and competition laws across the continent bodes well for the business community and future investment in Africa, say lawyers.
‘Staggering’ Jump in Law Firms Planning to Expand Nonequity Partner Ranks
The average annual growth in income partner classes at some of the most profitable firms between 2017 and 2022 was 13.4%, while at other large, two-tier partner firms, it was 4%, according to a report this week.
‘Not A Rosy Outlook’: Law Firm Leaders Are Less Bullish Heading Into 2024
Even before some firms embraced associate salary increases, the legal industry appeared less optimistic heading into 2024 than they were going into 2023, according to a recent survey.
Workplace Terminations About to Spike—Tips Employers Should Consider Before Dismissing Workers
Historical statistics show that more layoffs and discharges occur in December and January than any other time of the year.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Amid Talent Battle for Energy Partners, Hogan Lovells Adds Clifford Chance Lawyer
James Doyle has been vocal about the importance of renewables and energy transition practices, arguing that they are “strategic priorities for the firm and many of our clients”.
Weil, Cooley and BCLP Latest Firms to Announce 2024 Partner Promotions
The majority of the promotions across the three firms were in the US, however five of Weil Gotshal’s promotions were in its London office.
Oliver Rule joins Enyo Law from Allen & Overy
Oliver Rule specialises in complex financial litigation and is very excited to be joining Enyo Law stating that they are one of the “best disputes firms in London”.
Travers Smith announces new Head of Corporate M&A and ECM
As Andrew Gillen, the previous head, starts his new role as senior partner, Adrian will step up and take over the reigns of the corporate practice.
Ms Boyd carries with her 17 years of assorted experience in multiple areas of procurement. This move is projected to greatly enhance the success of the firm’s full-service strategy in Northern Ireland.
Addleshaw Goddard recruits Cormac Doyle to launch Irish tax practice
After spending 20 years working accountancy and specialising in Tax, Cormac is heading to Addleshaw’s.
Byrne Wallace expands tax team with appointment of Nadia de Wet
Nadia has accumulated over 10 years of experience working within a big 4 practice and her appointment as tax director and head of compliance has been accepted with open arms by many including the firms head of tax Anthony Smyth.
EMEA
Allen & Overy Swoops on Bird & Bird for IP Partner Hire
Following the launch of the Unified Patent Court earlier this year, Anna Wolters-Höhne will guide clients on proceedings. This is a great addition to their IP practice.
Covington Expands Global Public Policy Team with Elżbieta Bieńkowska
Elżbieta will bring over a wealth of key and diverse knowledge and expertise. She has had various roles such as former European Commissioner and Deputy Prime Minister of Poland. She will join Covington’s Public Policy Practice in Brussels.
Gowling WLG grows in Germany with quartet of senior hires
In an increased effort to build its presence in Germany, Gowling WLG have hired four senior Lawyers from under their rivals’ noses. These rivals include global law firms, Norton Rose Fulbright and DLA Piper.
APAC
Clyde & Co’s Australian Managing Partner Departs for Kennedys
After only holding the role for a year Lucinda Lyons is taking her expertise to Kennedys.
Dentons Takes TMT Partner from Australia’s Allens
This addition marks an interesting milestone for the Global 200 Top 10 firm in Australia. Michael Park is their sixth lateral move this year.
Linklaters’ China Joint Operation Firm MP Joins Haiwen & Partners’ Corporate Bench
This marks a continued shift in Haiwen’s hiring tendencies. They have been deepening their repertoire of senior lawyers with international backgrounds.
Baker McKenzie Korea Joint Venture Firm Lands Lee & Ko’s Disputes Head in Seoul
This hire is the first one that has been completed by Baker McKenzie & KL Partners’ Joint Venture Law Firm, which was officially launched in October this year.
Ashurst Eyes Top spot among Australia ‘Big Six’ elite Law firms
Ashurst’s Head of Australia Lea Constantine states that Ashurst want to position themselves to be the leading law firm in Australia in the upcoming years. She has plans of bolstering key areas such as their “corporate M&A, digital economy, disputes and investigations, energy transition, funds, risk consulting and New Law division, Ashurst Advance”.
The Americas
People in the News—Nov. 27, 2023—Ballard Spahr, Reed Smith
Emilia McKee has been well known as a litigation partner for Ballard Spahr, however she now faces a new role as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has appointed her to the Pennsylvania State Ethics Commission.
Dechert Litigator Joins Klehr Harrison, Seeking ‘Front-Facing’ Role
Jonathan Krause, the firm’s litigation chair, has praised the move as a step in the right direction stating that “We’ve had a really strong track record of success in bringing on Big Law attorneys who found our platform attractive”.
College Sports Law Specialist Moves to Barnes & Thornburg in Atlanta
Since 2019 Barnes & Thornburg’s Atlanta office has experienced incredible growth having more than doubled its ranks in the last four years, Daniel A. Cohen who has specialized in College Sports Law is the latest to join their ranks.
People in the News—Nov. 29, 2023—Pietragallo Gordon, Eckert Seamans
Law firm Pietragallo Gordon Alfano Bosick & Raspanti has announced that they will be adding two new associates to their office in Pittsburgh.
Katten Taps Chicago Office Head as Incoming Chair
The longtime managing partner of Katten’s Chicago office and co-chair of the litigation department Gil Soffer will succeed Roger Furey as chairman, this action will come into effect on July 1, 2024.
‘Deeply Honored and Proud to Serve’ Columbia Law Dean on Plans to Step Down
In a letter to the Columbia Law community, Dean Gillian Lester said that “It has been a joy to usher nine classes of graduates across the stage (albeit some virtually) who have gone on to become brilliant, skilled, empathic legal professionals equipped with the skills and tools to become the next generation of leaders in our society”, she says this looking back on her illustrious career.
On The Move: Nelson Mullins Adds Immigration Partner; Kilpatrick Gains Stroock Partner
John Jennings, a partner at Nelson Mullings is excited about the moves, stating that Nelson Mullins has a “large number of national clients” who are in need of assistance with navigating the “highly complex and evolving” legal restrictions on hiring foreign workers.
Polsinelli Adds Real Estate Finance Shareholder in Dallas
Tara Darling joined Polsinelli as a shareholder in the real estate and financial services department she was previously managing partner of the Cassin & Cassin Dallas office. Her move is a key development as the firm continues to extend its recent hiring efforts in the real estate sector.
Loeb & Loeb Elects Corporate Practice Leaders as New Firm Co-Chairs
After Kenneth Florin steps down in February, Mitchell Nussbaum and Arash Khalili will be taking over the position as co-chairs at the firm.
Willkie hires litigation counsel from Google to bolster West Coast investigations practice
Michael Rome was formerly a litigation counsel and will join as partner in the firm’s litigation department. He will be spreading his time across the firms LA and San Francisco offices.
The former global managing partners of the firm’s litigation and global corporate practices Joel Ferdinand and Michael Pierson have resigned to start their own private venture, there is a possibility that they could be followed by almost 140 of their former colleagues.
In-House
Promotions & Appointments:
The Hartford Opts for Continuity as Longtime GC Steps Aside
Don Hunt is stepping up and taking the legal reigns over the 213-year-old company.
Cynthia Nance Named Permanent Dean of U of A Law
U of A Law Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Terry Martin stated that “her experience within the School of Law and the university, as well as her expertise in legal education and respect of the bench and bar, is unmatched,”. These kind words come as we look back on her 30-year long career at this institution.
Senate Confirms Former Prosecutor Jamel Semper as New Jersey’s Next Federal Judge
Jamel Semper who has been serving New Jersey in public service for the last fifteen years has been promoted to the federal bench. Senator Cory Booker stated, “I know he will be a fair and just jurist.”
Addleshaw Goddard Elects Managing Partner John Joyce’s Successor
Andre Johnston has been elected and this appointment will take effect on the 1st of May 2024. He has been the head of the firms practice in the Middle East and has ambitions of doubling Addleshaw Goddard in size by 2030.
Eckert Seamans Announces New Leadership in Phila., Boston, DC
Eckert Seamans Philadelphia branch is receiving new leadership as Marc stein is succeeded by Amy Snyder and Frank Emmerich.
Mergers & Alliances:
Buchalter Acquires Real Estate and Trusts Boutique
Los Angeles Based firm Buchalter has re-emphasized its commitment to making its mark in Sacramento with the acquisition of real estate and trusts boutique Trainor Fairbrook.
Greenberg Traurig Expands Health Care Practice With Brownstein Hyatt Team
After over six years at Brownstein, Erin Eiselein and Anna-Liisa Mullis are joining Greenberg Traurig as shareholders and Ishra Solieman is joining as counsel.
Office Openings & Closing:
Dechert’s Paris-Based International Arbitration Group to Break Away from Firm
The Paris office has recently shifted towards delivering, life science, tech, private assets and private capital practices, this has led to their arbitration team breaking away from the firm. As arbitration teams across the country continue to be cast aside from lucrative cases, this reaction is seemingly more likely to become the norm.
Baylor Law Launches Family Law Clinic for Pro Se Litigants
After collaborating with judges who manage most of McLennan County’s family court docket, professor Stephanie Tang has launched a new and exciting Family Law clinic.
A Cohen & Gresser Spinoff Opens in Paris to Focus on Litigation and White-Collar Defense
Henriot & Associés is the new firm in question, and they aim to stand out in an already saturated field that includes not only established specialty firms but also growing departments of Global 200 players.
Cozen Announces New Global M&A Group, Looks to Carve Out Space in Cross-Border Deals
The new practice is a sign of the firm’s recent growth in Canada.
Boies Schiller Flexner Opens in Rome
This is the firms second office in Continental Europe to have opened. The operation will be spearheaded by two partners and three associates.
Financials:
Cravath Exceeds Milbank Salary Scale for Senior Associates
This has inspired Paul Hastings and McDermott to act claiming that they will match the Cravath scale.
Paul Weiss, Dechert, Hogan, Proskauer and Baker McKenzie Match Cravath Salary Scale
Leading on from the above article this article discusses how law firms are aiming to match Cravaths scale. Paul Weiss and Baker McKenzie have claimed that they will pay “discretionary” or “premium” bonuses for high performers.
Kirkland, Quinn, Davis Polk, Wachtell and Sidley Line Up to Match Cravath Salary Scale
Many firms are pushing to match the Cravath Salary scale, Quinn Emanuel is not only joining this influx but are also projecting themselves to increase profits by more than 20% this year.
Big Law Firms Offering ‘Mixed Bag’ of Rate, Comp Structures in Emerging Markets, Including Miami
One law firm leader has been reported as saying “Our real value proposition is we provide coastal expertise at Midwestern rates,”.
Even as Billing Rates Soared, Atlanta Law Firms See Slowdown in Revenue Growth
According to a survey completed by Wells Fargo, this year law firms in Atlanta have experienced an increase in billing rates of an average of 9.5% in the 9 months building up until October, this is 1.6% higher than the growth of the wider industry.
Bankruptcy Filings Ticked Upward This Year, and Lawyers Are Expecting a Busy 2024
Joe Pack, the founding partner of Pack Law spoke on this topic of bankruptcy and the busy times the industry will face in the upcoming year. He said, “The trend in restructuring is that the lawyers are getting much more creative in what options to use to actually restructure businesses, more so than they ever have”.
Technology & Innovation:
Gen AI May Not Replace Legal Professionals, But It Will Force Them to Adapt
Lawyers are looking to history to find precedents set by technological advancements of the past, hoping that it will clarify some of the uncertainties surrounding the impact that AI will have on the legal profession.
Generative AI Boosts Speed for All Legal Work, Quality for Some, Study Finds
Professors at the University of Southern California and University of Minnesota have dubbed their research as the “premier form of randomized controlled trial studying the effects of large language models on legal analysis”.
Cybersecurity Spend Among UK Top 10 Jumps 21% as Threats Become Priority
After researching and reporting on cybersecurity, experts at PWC are arguing that law firms should incorporate an element of “human cyber risk” into their cyber strategies.
Who’s Still Pushing for AI Disclosures in Legal?
Demands for disclosure of AI use have greatly increased in recent years as the use of AI in legal and financial services have increased, some think that this could set up potential headaches for the legal industry.
With Gen AI, Is There a Machine ‘Unlearning’ Alternative That Is GDPR-Compliant?
This question comes as a response to the reality that GDPR has a “right to be forgotten”, but large language models trained on publicly available personal data do not have the option nor the ability to “forget”.
Legal Tech Rundown: Clearlaw and Tonkean Partnership, Linklaters’ Upgraded Gen AI Chatbot, and More
This is a general update on the legal tech market over the past few weeks, covering topics like new partnerships and product launches.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Dominican Judge Breaks Ground in Manhattan Appellate Term
The judge in question is the first person of Dominican descent to preside over the appellate bench.
Congress Should Amend the Diversity Statute to Address LLCs
This article discusses the controversial topic of the diversity statute and claims that congress should take action to amend it to reflect public opinion.
ABA Names Longtime Law Dean as First Woman Managing Director of Legal Ed
The person in question is Rosato Perea who has been described by the dean of Seattle University School of Law as “a brilliant and highly effective leader, a broadly experienced legal scholar, teacher and law school administrator, and a history-maker and ceiling-shatterer as one of the longest serving law deans of colour, and women law deans, in history”.
Diversity Lab CEO Caren Ulrich Stacy stated that “There’s nothing that makes Mansfield unlawful and it’s really low risk because these are just generally good talent practices”.
An Am Law CDO’s Take: The Impact of the Middle East Crisis on DEI in U.S. Firms
This piece discusses how the heightening of the problems in the Middle East has led to lack of compassion and tolerance on US soil amongst certain law firms.
Market Commentary:
What’s Really Driving the Business of White-Collar Defense?
This article delves into the topic of the rising activity of big white collar defence groups, asking the question is enforcement rising or are clients simply being more proactive?
Big Law Is Slowly Infiltrating Emerging Markets: The Morning Minute
This article offers the market analysis on the impact of big law on new and emerging markets.
In-House Workload Grows as Staff, Outside Spending Shrink
A study that has been undertaken by Harbor Law has argued that “Despite the widely anticipated increase in demand for legal services, only 22% of in-house teams plan to increase their use of outside counsel to handle the overflow”.
Is Singapore the Answer to US Law Firms’ Woes in Asia?
Singapore is widely seen as the gateway to practices in Southeast Asia. But is it the answer to US Law firms’ woes?
The Four Core Pillars of Law Firm Year-End Financial Planning, Part I
Without the ongoing monitoring of financial performance, firm leaders are putting themselves in a position where they are forced to blindly gamble on the outcome that their firms will stay afloat in the upcoming year, regardless of the circumstances that might be placed in front of them.
The Pressure to Match Associate Pay Raises
This article discusses the current trends in salary raise amongst associates as at least 70 law firms, mainly across the Am Law 100, have increased to $215,000 or more.
Traditional Biz Dev Methods Are Fine, Just Not Enough
This article discusses business development strategy, in particular client and lawyer relationships. Many say there is a lack of personal interest and concern towards clients by lawyers.
Global Firms in Japan Rev Up Hiring to Fill Roles and Add Practices
This news comes as a new and exciting change following a year of limited and cautious hiring in Japan caused by warnings of economic recession last year.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Latham Makes Double Partner Hire From Akin in London
Fergus Wheeler and Paul Yin will both join Latham’s banking practice in London and are leaving Akin after less than a year with the firm.
Kirkland Looks to Macfarlanes for Latest London Partner Hire
Kirkland & Ellis has turned to U.K. firm Macfarlanes for a new senior tax partner hire in London.
Ceinwen Rees joins Kirkland after five years at Macfarlanes, which she first joined as partner back in 2018 after a spell U.S. firm Debevoise & Plimpton.
Paul Weiss Continues Raid on Kirkland with 14th London Partner Hire
John Patten will depart Kirkland’s technology and IP transactions practice after over five years—according to a person close to the hire—two of which he spent as a partner, according to his LinkedIn profile. Prior to that, he was an associate at Linklaters for nearly five years.
Eversheds Sutherland appoints Lisa Boyd as Belfast procurement partner
Ms Boyd brings over 17 years of experience advising businesses and large organisations on all aspects of public procurement law and construction. The firm said the addition of a procurement partner to the Belfast office underscores its full-service strategy in Northern Ireland.
Mason Hayes & Curran welcomes Laura Herangi
Mason Hayes & Curran has announced the appointment of Laura Herangi as a partner and head of the firm’s data solutions group.
Ms Herangi has expertise in all areas of data retrieval and management. She primarily advises clients in the management of large-scale discovery projects, information and data gathering for regulatory and corporate investigations, and in the management of responses to data subject access requests.
IP specialist law firm FRKelly consolidates presence in Cork
The appointment of David Keane as partner in the Cork office highlights FRKelly’s enduring investment in the region. He brings a wealth of IP experience from roles in both in-house and law firm roles.
EMEA
King & Spalding, White & Case Boost Dubai Offices With New Hires
White & Case and King & Spalding have added new partners to their growing Dubai benches in the fields of finance and real estate, respectively, as the emirate continues to remain central to regional prospects.
APAC
M&A Lawyer Departs PwC Legal for Australia’s McCullough Robertson
Natalie Kurdian has left PwC Australia as departures from the firm’s legal business continue in the wake of its tax advice scandal.
Yulchon Expands Disputes Practice with Two Prosecutor Hires in Seoul
Big Six South Korean law firm Yulchon has further bolstered its dispute resolution practice with the double hire of Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office’s director prosecutors, Wook Jin Rha and Woo Young Choe. Rha and Cho are joining the private practice’s global white-collar crime and financial investigation teams as Seoul-brd partners, respectively.
Australian Firm Takes Projects Lawyers from White & Case, Holding Redlich
Australian law firm Hall & Wilcox has hired a project and infrastructure partner from international firm White & Case and another from an Australian firm.
Mark Montag joins from White & Case while Shaun Whittaker, along with a senior associate and another lawyer, join from Holding Redlich. All will be brd in Melbourne.
Singapore Firm Bayfront Law Lands Drew & Napier’s Disputes Director
Bayfront Law, the Singapore Formal Law Alliance (FLA) partner of Japan’s largest law firm Nishimura & Asahi, has strengthened its dispute resolution capability with the hire of Paras Lalwani, who was most recently a director at Big Four Singapore firm Drew & Napier. Lalwani has joined Bayfront as a director and head of the firm’s international arbitration practice.
The Americas
Sidley Energy Capital Markets Partner Moves to Locke Lord
In a Big Law hire in Houston, Locke Lord has added Sidley Austin energy capital markets and corporate partner Jon Daly, who said his clients will benefit from his new firm’s expertise in the energy space, particularly in the midstream area.
Clark Hill Adds Financial Services Practice to Collin County Office With Vedder Price Shareholder
Aaron Turner joined Clark Hill on Oct. 13, after nearly three years at Vedder Price, where he helped launch the Dallas office in January 2021.
McDermott IP Trio Split to Launch Rimon’s Japan Practice, Citing Big Law Rates
Three of McDermott Will & Emery’s longtime IP partners have relocated to distributed firm Rimon P.C., citing their new firm’s greater flexibility on rates.
Partners Tomoki Tanida, Takashi Saito and Michael “Mike” Fogarty arrived at Rimon’s Northern Virginia office Oct. 23, bringing a team of five patent agents, staff and a 100% Japanese clientele from the Am Law 50 firm, lawyers at the firm said. Their moves fuel Rimon’s growth in the IP space and help it launch a new Japan practice.
Dentons, Bracewell and Polsinelli Add to Partner Benches in DC
Polsinelli brought on a three-lawyer real estate team from Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough to join the firm’s real estate practice group. The team—including shareholder Anitra Androh, shareholder Tim Donovan and associate Reid Mene—represents commercial real estate clients in transactions involving the acquisition, disposition and development of mixed-use, commercial and residential projects.
Dentons hired partner Seamus Curley from dissolving firm Stroock.
Pa. Firms Among Those Picking Up Talent From Dissolving Ward Greenberg
Buffalo-brd Hodgson Russ and Atlanta-brd Freeman Mathis & Gary are each taking their share of the mid-Atlantic litigation boutique Ward Greenberg, divvying up the firm’s 19 lawyers across its four offices in New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey effective January 1, 2024.
Hodgson Russ announced its acquisition, led by firm co-founder Eric Ward, on Tuesday, taking over Ward Greenberg’s existing Rochester lease and adding 10 litigators to its commercial litigation practice. Freeman Mathis, meanwhile, is bringing on nine attorneys, including the firm’s other founder Edward Greenberg, from Ward Greenberg’s Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey offices, similarly taking responsibility for the firm’s leases until they come due. Hodgson Russ and Freeman Mathis will be incorporating the firm’s administrative staff as well.
On the Move and After Hours: K&L Gates; Porzio; Capehart Scatchard; Sherman Atlas; Sills Cummis
K&L Gates welcomed Jennifer Mazawey as a partner in the real estate practice area in the Newark office, according to an announcement by the firm. Mazawey joins the firm from Genova Burns, where she worked for over 20 years.
Blank Rome Adds Former Federal Prosecutor to Pittsburgh Office
Blank Rome has added former assistant U.S. attorney Yvonne Saadi to its Pittsburgh office, expanding its commercial litigation and white-collar capabilities.
Saadi is the 24th lateral addition brought on to the firm this year, joining former federal appellate and district court Judge Timothy K. Lewis at the firm’s Pittsburgh office.
Paul Hastings Continues Growing Funds Practice, Landing Partner from Skadden
Anna Rips, who was at Skadden for 17 years, is the eighth partner to join Paul Hastings’ funds practice in the last nine months.
In-House
Biden’s Former Chief of Staff Leaves O’Melveny for Airbnb
Ron Klain, President Joe Biden’s former chief of staff and longtime Democratic political operative, will leave O’Melveny & Myers after seven months to become chief legal officer at Airbnb on Jan. 1.
Klain left the White House in February and two months later rejoined the Washington, D.C., office of O’Melveny, where he was a partner from 1999 to 2004. He returned after O’Melveny chair Brad Butwin recruited him to lead the firm’s new crisis management practice.
Ailing Tupperware Rehires Legal Chief After Replacing CEO
As it struggles for survival, Tupperware Brands, the once-iconic maker of airtight storage containers, has restored Karen Sheehan to her former role as chief legal officer, three months after she abruptly announced her resignation.
Fintech Veteran Tapped as GC of Pipedrive
Phillip Mellet will head worldwide legal for customer relationship software firm Pipedrive. Mellet currently is GC of Nashville, Tennessee-brd digital insurance broker Healthpilot.
Lesley Wan Exits FBN Bank for GC Role in Banking Venture
The First Bank of Nigeria’s general counsel in the U.K., Lesley Wan, has departed from her position to join banking venture All Africa Capital.
Promotions & Appointments:
‘I’m Eager to Build on Successes’: BCLP Names Next UK Managing Partner
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner has named its next U.K. managing partner, Jinal Shah, after elevating its current London head, Segun Osuntokun, to global senior partner.
Both roles will take effect on January 1, 2024.
Gleiss Lutz Elects New Managing Partners
Ralf Morshäuser and Johann Wagner will jointly lead the firm and will take office from January 1, 2024.
Geoff Moore to continue as head of Arthur Cox
Arthur Cox managing partner Geoff Moore has been reappointed to serve a second four-year term. Mr Moore has served as the firm’s managing partner since 2019 and as a partner since 2007. Prior to his current role, he served as co-head of the firm’s corporate/M&A group, specialising in mergers and acquisitions and strategic advisory work for leading corporates.
People in the News—Nov. 20, 2023—Pollock Begg, Duffy + Fulginiti
Pittsburgh divorce lawyer and Pollock Begg partner Brian C. Vertz was named president of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Foundation for a two-year term, beginning this afternoon.
Vertz will lead the AAML Foundation in making grants to agencies that assist needy families and children facing domestic violence, parental conflict and barriers to legal services. The foundation makes annual charitable grants from the donations of fellows of the AAML, a national group of 1,600 top family lawyers.
People in the News—Nov. 21, 2023—Lamb McErlane, Rosen & Perry, Capehart Scatchard
Lamb McErlane announced that partner Steve E. Jarmon has been appointed by the federal judges of the District of Delaware to serve on its Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel.
The CJA panel is composed of a group of experienced private attorneys to represent individuals in federal criminal cases who are financially unable to retain counsel. Jarmon currently serves on the CJA panel for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, since he was selected in 2021.
Morris Nichols Partner Inducted Into Estate Planning Hall of Fame
Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell announced that partner Todd Flubacher has been inducted into the Estate Planning Hall of Fame by the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils (NAEPC).
This recognition, conferred as part of the class of 2023, celebrates Flubacher’s lifetime achievements and dedicated service to the estate planning field.
NY Court Leaders Pick Antonio Seda to Head Bias Investigations
The New York court system on Tuesday named longtime Metropolitan Transportation Authority attorney Antonio Seda managing inspector general for bias matters within the Office of Court Administration.
NY Judicial Watchdog Gets New Member From Big Law
New York Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt, R-Lockport, has appointed Attorney Brian C. Doyle, co-managing shareholder of the Long Island office of Greenberg Traurig, to the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
People in the News—Nov. 22, 2023—King Spry, Tucker Arensberg
King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul announced that attorney Dorota Gasienica-Kozak has been named a fellow of the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA).
Former Deputy Public Defender Ash Kalra Named Chair of Assembly Judiciary Committee
In his seven years in the Legislature, Kalra has worked to amend criminal justice procedures and to enact labor-friendly measures.
Diageo General Counsel Named Interim Chair of Comic Relief
Drinks giant Diageo’s general counsel Tom Shropshire, who was previously Linklaters’ U.S. head, has been named interim chair of British charity Comic Relief.
Mergers & Alliances:
Office Openings & Closing:
Am Law 200 Boom in Miami Picks Up Steam, as Dinsmore Enters With Lewis Brisbois Group
Miami is continuing to attract Am Law 200 firms, with Dinsmore & Shohl the latest to launch in the city by adding a six-partner litigation team from Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith.
Dinsmore, a Cincinnati-founded firm that ranked No. 114 in the Am Law 200 this year, had already doubled down in Florida this year, adding an office in Orlando by merging with a boutique there. The firm also has a location in Tampa.
Brazil’s Lefosse Launches Office in Brasília to Handle More Federal Work
Leading full-service Brazilian law firm Lefosse has opened an office in Brazil’s capital, anchored by a partner who joined earlier this year from the country’s Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Miura & Partners Announces Fourth International Office Launch This Year
The firm’s plans to open in Vietnam follows its opening of three other international offices in San Francisco, Jakarta and London in recent months.
Financials:
Wachtell Seeks Balance Between ‘Continuity and Change’
For the first time in 17 years, there’s new leadership at storied mergers and acquisitions law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, with Andrew Nussbaum and William Savitt replacing Ed Herlihy and Daniel Neff as co-chairs.
But other big changes may not be in store. The Wall Street firm may keep its same approach in firm operations for as long as possible, whether it’s the firm’s lockstep compensation system, partnership structure or practice-area focus.
Litigation Boutique Gives 175% Above-Market Bonuses
Washington, D.C.-brd litigation boutique Wilkinson Stekloff announced it will give 175% above-market bonuses for each associate class year, starting at $26,250 for the class of 2023 and topping out at $201,250 for the class of 2016 and beyond, founding partner Beth Wilkinson confirmed to The National Law Journal on Monday.
Pennsylvania Firms on Track to Hit National Averages in Revenue, See Success in Collections
Pennsylvania’s legal market, in which Philadelphia-brd firms play an outsized role, has largely kept pace with the national trendline of modest revenue growth through the first nine months of 2023, according to two recent surveys from Citi Bank and Wells Fargo, with firms in the region having greater success on collections thus far this year compared to national averages.
Citi’s Global Wealth at Work Law Firm Group surveyed 11 Pennsylvania-headquartered firms and found 3.9% revenue growth in the region through the third quarter, compared to 4.8% revenue growth nationwide. Wells Fargo, meanwhile, surveyed six firms headquartered in Philadelphia and found their 4.5% revenue growth was almost identical to the 4.6% nationwide figure.
‘Wait-and-See Mode’ for Associate Pay: Law Firms in DC Bide Time
Despite Milbank announcing earlier this month a $10,000 raise in associate salaries and a match to last year’s year-end bonuses, law firms in Washington, D.C., like others across the country, are still waiting to see what other firms will do before making a final decision of their own, legal observers say.
Multiple legal observers indicated that it is likely D.C. firms will ultimately match Milbank’s move, but they aren’t expected to be “leading the charge,” as many remain in a “wait-and-see mode” for what other market leaders, such as Cravath, Swaine & Moore and Davis Polk & Wardwell, do first.
Slower Collections Hamper Revenue Growth In Fla. Law Firms As Year End Approaches
For the first time this year, revenues at Florida law firms did not outpace the national average, according to a nationwide survey studying legal industry trends.
In fact, Florida saw the lowest revenue growth out of any market singled out in the latest quarterly survey conducted by the Wells Fargo Legal Specialty Group. And while revenue shrunk, expenses kept growing along with headcount.
How Can Law Firms ‘Crack the Nuts on Collections’ While Closing Out 2023?
Law firms have already turned up the volume on their push to get paid on time this year, especially in the lead-up to the fourth quarter. But with clients taking longer to pay bills and firms’ ability to meet budget goals hinging on successful year-end collections, law firms will do everything in their control to get cash in the door by Dec. 31, analysts say.
That includes everything in the pandemic era playbook—recording time more frequently, reviewing and sending out bills earlier, and staying in front of clients more than usual. But it can also include setting up milestone payments on next year’s work, negotiating closer to the sticker price, or using discounts to incentivize payment of outstanding bills, particularly as clients try to hold onto cash longer in a high-interest environment.
New York Law Firms See Good News, But Still Have Some Cause for Concern
New York law firms this year have seen a better demand picture than peers across the country, but they also have some reason to be concerned, including trailing revenue growth and increasing expenses, according to third-quarter bank reports about the legal market in the Empire State.
Overall, the nine-month results from Citi Global Wealth at Work Law Firm Group and Wells Fargo Legal Specialty Group show the legal industry increasing revenue as a whole by the third quarter, partly due to rising billing rates. But firms’ overall profits will depend on how much they can collect on their bills.
DC Law Firms on Road to Finish Strong 2023, Amid Billing Rate and Demand Growth
Law firms in Washington, D.C., are on track for a successful year, profiting from increased demand for antitrust and regulatory practices and surging billing rates in the first nine months of this year, according to bank survey of law firms.
Technology & Innovation:
Slaughter and May Launches Tech Group
Slaughter and May is launching a new technology, digital, data and IP (TDDI) group, as well as a technology cross-stream practice.
Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the TDDI group will include the firm’s existing IP, information technology and data privacy groups, according to a firm statement.
All Eyes on GenAI for Slaughter and May’s Latest Collaborate Round
Slaughter and May is on the lookout for products with a focus on generative AI for its latest legal tech programme.
The latest 12-week programme, dubbed Collaborate, will select a number of businesses to receive feedback and mentoring, as well access to the firm’s industry connections and its client innovation network.
OpenAI’s Unique Corporate Structure May Have Been Recipe for Trouble
The mind-spinning developments at OpenAI since Friday are a cautionary tale for the legion of companies that have become interested in mixing traditional business with altruism, a prominent corporate governance expert said.
Mass Resignations Could Gut OpenAI’s Legal Department
OpenAI’s legal department would be severely diminished if scores of OpenAI attorneys follow through with threats to leave the company and join ousted CEO Sam Altman at Microsoft.
The lawyers, many of them hired in just the last few months, say they’re prepared to quit unless the six-person OpenAI board resigns. The board outraged most of the company’s 770 rank-and-file workers by abruptly firing Altman Friday afternoon.
Altman Was Out, Until He Wasn’t: Lessons Learned From OpenAI’s Leadership Drama
Legaltech News caught up with some industry insiders to discuss OpenAI’s head-spinning leadership changes from the past week, ranging from the board’s ousting of Sam Altman to reinstating him as CEO as of Nov. 21.
There’s been no shortage of news in the legal world surrounding artificial intelligence and what it means for lawyers and the legal landscape. While some lawyers reject the concept, others have embraced it and reported positive experiences. The main risk for lawyers, though, is that there are serious concerns about whether open-source AI is a reliable tool.
Antitrust Regulators Poised to Pounce as AI Firms Jostle for Dominance
At its first developer conference earlier this month, OpenAI—whose biggest backer is Microsoft—unveiled an update to ChatGPT whose new features for its paying users, like the ability to read PDFs, threaten to wipe out small startups that built their businesses around filling a gap in ChatGPT’s functionality.
Law’s Lightbulb Moment: Why AI Needs More Time to Develop
The adoption of AI into law will be gradual, not sudden, and we are probably still waiting for that perfect product to arrive.
A Roadmap for AI Success In Modern Legal Firms, Part 2
The use and integration of technology into the practice of law is among the most exciting and controversial subjects being addressed in law firms, courtrooms and law schools everywhere. The reality of AI is causing many legal professionals to wonder whether they may be replaced by the ever-evolving technology.
At a September panel discussion sponsored by the Miami Dade Bar Association Law and Technology Committee, the experts unanimously concluded that AI will not replace lawyers, but lawyers who use AI effectively will replace lawyers who don’t. Panelists included Stephanie Wilkins, Editor-in-Chief of Legaltech News, Steve Salkin, Editor-in-Chief of Law Journal Newsletters, and Ralph Losey, Esq. of Losey Law, PLLC.
A Spooky Fall: 5 Recent Cybersecurity Incidents and Shortcomings in the Legal Market
Legaltech News looked back at some of the significant cybersecurity incidents from this fall, from “lax” practices to evolving strategies from bad actors.
Are Legal Proceedings, Courts and Laws Ready for the Rise of Deepfakes?
Panelists from the CIA, Relativity and the Institute for Advanced Study came together during the Toledo Bar Association’s “Utilization of AI Applications in the Legal System and Throughout the Nation” webinar to explore how generative AI is infiltrating the legal market.
Inventorship and Patentability of Artificial Intelligence-Based Inventions
The quandary is whether an AI platform that assists in creating an invention should be named as an inventor in a patent. For example, an AI-powered system may be employed pharmaceutically to identify molecular compounds in the discovery of a newly invented drug, without much human involvement. Does such AI assistance rise to the level of inventorship?
5 Jurisdictions, 5 AI Approaches: How AI Regulation is Shaping Up Globally
Jurisdictions differ on their approach to AI governance, from some countries taking a more hands off approach to others looking to pass new AI legislation.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Morris James Partner Speaks at Human Resource Management Conference
The Delaware Society for Human Resource Management (DE-SHRM) conference was held on Nov. 14-15 and provided a platform for HR professionals and industry leaders to discuss the latest workplace trends and challenges, and Morris James partner Jim McMackin was a panelist on the “Legislative and Legal” panel.
The event, themed as “Leading HR in a Boundaryless World,” brought together over 300 attendees.
In the Face of Affirmative Action: Persisting With Law Firm Diversity Efforts
The legal industry must press ahead aggressively to achieve better representation in business for all demographic groups.
Market Commentary:
Preparing for Transition: Building the Leadership Pipeline
The recent rash of leadership transitions may have just recently caught the eye of the media, yet this conversation has dominated executive and policy committee discussions for some time. There is a dearth of up-and-coming leaders due in large part to the baby bust, or significantly smaller size of Gen X, sandwiched between the Baby Boomers and millennials. This generational phenomenon has left many firms with two choices—allow senior leaders to hold the reins longer than planned (or desired); or encourage younger leaders to take on roles for which they may not yet have the training and experience.
Professionalism as Interpretation
A good part of the lawyerly trade is learning how to manipulate rules and make fine distinctions—after all, law is an argumentative discipline. But what does that mean within the parameters of what we’re calling the virtuous practice of law?
Legal Tech Veteran Rick Hellers Discusses Return to the Industry, Market Evolution
Longtime legal technology veteran Rick Hellers, who came out of retirement to start a new role at Scan Logic, talked to Legaltech News about what the industry is still lacking in all these years later, and what it’s doing well.
This article considers a recent opinion from the New York City Bar Association Committee on Professional and Judicial Ethics Opinion 2023-1 on the topic of attorneys departing from a law firm.
Back to the Office You Go! Issues Impacting Remote Work in a Post-Pandemic World
Employees now comfortable (and even excelling) with working from home may face new challenges if employers mandate a return to the office.
Countercyclical and Regulatory Practices Dominate Partner Promotions in 2023
Big Law is minting more partners in regulatory and countercyclical practices than it did last year, according to an American Lawyer analysis of 23 Am Law 100 firms that already announced promotions this fall.
Debt finance promotions rose 36% from 2022 while tax partner elections were up 29%. The group of firms doubled regulatory partner promotions in 2023 and tripled promotions in antitrust. Health care and FDA practices added 25% more partners.
Big Fish, Small Ponds: How Big Law Is Slowly Infiltrating Emerging Markets
From Kirkland & Ellis kicking off a wave of elite firms moving into Salt Lake City to Holland & Knight becoming Nashville’s largest law firm overnight, Big Law firms have set their sights on developing markets.
Are the Google, Amazon Suits This Generation’s Microsoft?
The claims against the online search engine and etailer bear limited similarity to the case against the personal computer giant, antitrust attorneys and law professors say.
A Glimpse Into 2024’s M&A Market
With December closing in, the traditional end-of-year deal flurry has arrived on time. But it has a slightly different look to previous years, which may point to how the economy will look in 2024, and the type of work law firms will be getting.
2023 has been mostly unkind to deal markets. High interest rates and inflation have driven funds to explore growth sectors that in years prior they wouldn’t have had much to do with.
Should Allen & Overy Pay the Ransom?
The firm has been hacked by one of the world’s most infamous hacking groups and is likely to be facing ransom demands if it wants to avoid having data published on the dark web as soon as next week.
Singapore’s Promise Proves Slow to Deliver for Law Firm Entrants
Faced with a down market and increasing competition in Singapore, will new law firm entrants be forced to reevaluate their hopes for Southeast Asia? Lawyers say their sector focus is the secret sauce but is it too little too late?
Rethinking Law Firm Workplaces in the Age of Hybrid Work
Bringing the office ‘buzz’ back and enhancing employee experience is crucial to making everyone feel that their commute is worthwhile, argues Carlos Posada at Gensler.
The Challenger Law Firm Which Puts Staff Before Clients
Happy staff mean happy clients, says pwc Locke managing partner Nick Humphrey, whose firm spent over A$1 million last year on staff development and training programs.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Pinsent Masons hires Maureen Daly to lead IP team in Dublin
Pinsent Masons has enlisted Intellectual property and technology partner Maureen Daly to their Dublin office to lead their intellectual property team and expand its pan-European Technology practice.
Kirkland secures tax partner from Linklaters in London.
Not long after being raided by Paul Weiss, Kirkland & Ellis have hired a senior tax partner in their London office from Linklaters. James Morgan is set to join as a Senior Tax Partner.
Allen & Overy hires cybersecurity partner duo in London from Norton Rose Fulbright
After 20 years at Norton Rose Ffion Flockhart has been appointed Global head of Security at Allen & Overy, she is joined with partner Charlie Weston- Simons.
EMEA
Gibson Dunn Grabs 7-Partner Team from White & Case as It Opens Office in Saudi Arabia
Gibson Dunn have raided various White & Case offices to acquire a 7-Partner team for its new office in Riyadh.
Jones Day Taps Ashurst for Munich Restructuring Partner
This is the second Ashurst move specifically from their Munich office in the last month.
McDermott Will & Emery Hires Veteran White & Case Competition Partner in Brussels
Axel Schulz joins McDermott’s competition team in Brussels, he has been hailed as a veteran, having represented many high-profile clients in antitrust cases, such as the likes of GlaxoSmithKline and Toshiba.
Pinsent Masons Expands Jo’Burg team with 17 lawyers from local corporate outfit
Pinsent Masons is expanding its Johannesburg office with the hire of 17 lawyers from local boutique firm Tabacks, effective December 1.
APAC
Squire Patton Boggs Takes Shipping Disputes Team From Ince & Co
After recently losing 3 partners from UK firm Hill Dickinson, the independent Hong Kong practice Ince & Co, have had their shipping disputes team raided by Squire Patton Boggs.
K&L Gates Loses IP Partner in Tokyo
IP Partner Mitsuhiro Imamura has left K&L Gates to run the MIM Intellectual Property Office, which is also located in Tokyo.
Norton Rose Replenshes Singapore Disputes Practice with Hogan Lovells Partner
Kent Phillips, who has been a partner at Hogan Lovells since 2016 has joined Global firm, Norton Rose in Singapore. Phillips’ arrival represents the growing demand for Disputes and International Arbitration services in Southeast Asia.
Hong Kong’s Hugill & Ip Takes Team of Five from Local Boutique
Local boutique Gall has lost a team of five to Hong Kong firm Hugill & Ip. The move is set to boost Hugill’s contentious practice capabilities.
PwC Australia Exodus Continues as Two Partners Leave for Construction Boutique
Two Australian partners have left PWC for MolinoCahill a boutique construction firm.
HFW takes 5 partners, 15 lawyers from MinterEllison
Global law firm HFW has nabbed five partners from fellow BigLaw practice MinterEllison, as well as a team of 15 lawyers, as it moves to bolster its regional offerings in corporate, projects, regulatory, and restructuring. Partners Adam Handley, Matthew Knox, David Suttner, Bryn Davis, and Bi Chen have all left Minters for HFW. The group will be based across Perth and Sydney.
Australian Firm Hamilton Locke Takes Two From PwC
A partner and a director have left PwC Law as part of five-lawyer hire by growing Australian firm Hamilton Locke. Finance partner Andrew Vincent and director Kath Booth are the latest lawyers to leave PwC in the wake of the accounting giant’s tax advice scandal.
Kim & Chang Adds Former K&L Gates Korea Head in Seoul
Eric Yoon was succeeded by Tyler Won, a partner in the firm’s intellectual property, international trade and antitrust practice groups, as South Korea head earlier this year.
The Americas
Midsize Moves: Saxton & Stump Hires IP Senior Counsel, Atkinson Takes on Bullivant Partner
Micah Jacobs has left Bullivant to join Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo as a partner in its Marin office, and IP lawyer Xiaoying Zhang has been hired by Saxton & Stump to fulfil the role of Senior Counsel.
Benesch Welcomes Associate to Litigation Team in Wilmington
Andrew D. Kinsey is the latest addition to Benesch who have been growing their ranks. He is welcomed to their Wilmington office where he will be working in their litigation practice group.
Kirkland Partner Moves to Weil as NY Firm Grows Private Funds Practice in DC
Kirkland have lost private funds partner Christopher Scully to Weil’s office in Washington DC. Scully is excited about working at Weil claiming that their funds client base allows for opportunity.
Paul Weiss Hires O’Melveny Partner to Co-Chair Financial Services Group
Bank Regulatory lawyer Jarryd Anderson has left O’Melveny to help further grow Paul Weiss’ financial services regulatory group, he will be working out of their New York and Washington DC offices.
Stroock Partner Trio, including 2 Chairs, Joins Squire Patton Boggs
Stroock have suffered another loss. This time in the form of Tom Firestone, the former co-chair of their government investigations and white-collar practice. He is not the only one and he will be accompanied in his move by partners Chris Griner and Shannon Reaves.
Lewis & Clark Law Dean Stepping Down After 10-Year Tenure
Dean Jennifer Johnson is said to be stepping down after 10 years with Lewis Clark’s law school. She states that she is “very proud of the achievements of our faculty, students and staff.” And considers her time spent as dean to have been an honour.
Mayer Brown Recruits 4-Person Public Policy Team, as Law Firms Deepen Regulatory Benches
Mayer Brown have announced that they will be taking on a 4-person Public Policy Team from Dentons. The team will be led by John Merrigan and Matthew Bernstein, and they will be joined by advisors, Stephanie Jebeyli and Jessica Woolley. The team will be based in Washington DC.
Mayer Brown Adds Huntsman Global Litigation Head in Houston
Mayer Brown have added Huntsman Corp’s associate general counsel Peter Jordan as a partner in their Houston office.
Cooley Hires SDNY Public Corruption Chief as Partner in White-Collar Defense Group
Rebekah Donaleski has been hired by Cooley to their New York office. Donaleski has nearly a decade’s worth of experience in the Manhattan U.S Attorney’s Office and led their Anti-corruption unit for three years. She is looking forward to applying this high-stakes experience to the tackling of new clients for Cooley.
Dan Malasky has left his position overseeing legal proceedings with the Tampa Bay Bucs after five years to join Florida based athletics school Bradenton as their Chief of Legal proceedings.
PLW People in the News—Nov. 14, 2023—Goldberg Segalla, McGuireWoods
Jillian B. Saputelli has joined Goldberg Segalla’s Global insurance team in Philadelphia.
People in the News—Nov. 15, 2023—Sweeney & Sheehan, Babst Calland
Marcus Jones and Michael J. Reilly have been welcomed to Sweeny & Sheehan. They will be joining as associates.
Womble Bond Dickinson hires trademark duo from Cozen O’Connor in New York
Gregory Gulia and Vanessa Hew have been recruited by Womble Bond Dicksinson from Cozen O’Conner to their New York office. The pair are respected trademark partners and have been brought in with the hopes that they will bolster Wombles IP capabilities.
Herrick Feinstein Lures Restructuring Partner From Jenner & Block
Jenner & Block have lost restructuring partner Robert Gordon, who has accumulated over 30 years’ worth of experience representing clients in Bankruptcy proceedings.
In-House
Food-Waste Company Divert—Backed by $1.1B in Funding—Hires First General Counsel
Food-waste company Divert have appointed Kathleen Patton as their first General Counsel in Massachusetts, she joins from Jobcase Inc where she was also General Counsel.
Manchester United’s GC takes on interim CEO role
Patrick Stewart who has been Manchester United’s General Counsel since 2006 is set to take on the role of interim chief executive as the club expand efforts to appoint a long-term successor.
Consulting Giant Hires Ex-Voyager Attorney to Lead Digital Assets Practice
David Brill who was Deputy General Counsel for Voyager, a known cryptocurrency lender who were struggling with bankruptcy last year, has been hired by FTI Consulting as managing director.
Atlanta’s Cox Enterprises Taps In-House Veteran With ‘Vast Knowledge’ for New Role
Amber Hall has been appointed as the company’s first chief compliance and privacy officer. Prior to this appointment she has spent her entire in-house career at Cox Enterprises save for a three-year sojourn to Wells Fargo.
Fox Corporation has hired Adam Ciongoli as its new chief legal and policy officer, replacing Viet Dinh, who Fox announced was stepping down from the role back in August.
Promotions & Appointments:
This Lawyer Just Rose to One of the Most Visible Positions in Texas
Aaron Nielson has replaced Judd Stone as Solicitor General for Texas. Sources claim that “His talent and expertise are virtually unmatched”.
William Fry’s Myra Garrett appointed to NTMA board
Former William Fry Managing Partner Myra Garrett has been appointed to the board of the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA). She is set to hold this role for a five-year term.
Aileen Gittens appointed to lead Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan’s immigration team
Aileen Gittens has been announced as head of the new Immigration practice at Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan Solicitors.
White & Case promotions: Seven City lawyers make the grade
White & Case have elected 42 new partners for 2024 across 11 practices, 18 offices and 13 different countries. 14 in the Americas, 24 in EMEA and 4 in APAC.
Changing of the Guard at Bennett Jones Heralds the First Black CEO at a National Canadian Law Firm
Dominique Hussey, along with John Mercury, will take over leadership of the firm from Hugh MacKinnon, who steps down after 18 years at the helm.
Simpson Thacher Latest Partner Promotions Span US and London Offices
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett is the latest U.S. firm to announce its partner promotions for 2023, with 32 lawyers making the cut. The new partners hail from the firm’s U.S. and London offices, with a majority of 18 being made at the firm’s New York headquarters.
Mayer Brown makes up 42 to partnership in banking and finance-focused round
Top 20 US firm Mayer Brown has promoted 42 lawyers to its partnership, with a further 23 being promoted to counsel.
Mergers & Alliances:
Buchanan Announces Merger With IP Boutique RatnerPrestia
RatnerPrestia will bring two patent agents to Buchanan as well as an addition of twenty-two lawyers to strengthen Buchanan’s IP services.
Addleshaw Goddard announces charity partnership with Jigsaw
After a staff vote, Addleshaw Goddard (AG) has announced Jigsaw to be their Irish charity partner for the next three years.
Fieldfisher to part With Italian Operation
The U.K. law firm has announced the end of its seven-year arrangement with Italy’s SASPI, citing its strategic objectives no longer being closely aligned.
Office Openings & Closing:
CMS Bolts on Swedish Firm to European Network
Top 10 Swedish firm, Wistrand is the next firm to be added as part of CMS’ global growth initiative. In the last couple of months CMS have also established exclusive relationship with firms In Brazil, Mozambique and Mexico.
China’s DaHui Launches Office in Wuhan
Han Kun Law Offices and Shu Jin Law have both also recently opened in Wuhan.
McKees opens Enniskillen office
McKees has opened a new office in Enniskillen.
Kee Solicitors unveils new Glasgow office
Kee Solicitors has unveiled its new Glasgow office.
Mexico City Based Law Firm Gonzalez Calvillo Plans New Office Launch In Northern Mexico
The office slated for the industrial city of Monterrey will open in early 2024 with an eye on serving clients who are looking to relocate production to North America.
Top Insolvency Lawyer Starts Own Firm after Leaving Australia’s Gilbert + Tobin
Dominic Emmett establishes Sydney-based Emmett Law.
Financials:
Weil Advises as PAI Partners Raises Record €7.1 Billion
The firm was able to fundraise this amount despite the wider private equity market facing challenges.
Associate Pay Raises Escalate GC Fears if Billing Rate Hikes
Some GCs are voicing concerns about further rate hikes after associate pay raises. But Milbank’s chair said the salary raises wouldn’t have a material effect on its billing rate decisions in the future.
Where are the Milbank Pay Matches? Mixed Market Signals Weigh on Law Firms
“It’s a bit telling of how the overall market is kind of feeling at the moment. There’s going to be a lot of variability in how firms perform this year,” noted New York legal recruiter Scott Yaccarino.
Slaughter and May Ups NQ Pay to £125,000
The hike now puts the firm in line with other elite UK firms.
Technology & Innovation:
It’s Not Just Judges That Want Mandatory AI Disclosures
According to a new survey, which has been produced by Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner on arbitration practices, approximately 3% of legal professionals have already had the integrity of their evidence compromised as a result of the use misuse of AI tools.
California Bar Leaders to Vote on AI Guidance for Attorneys This Week
An effect of the proposed guidelines will result in attorneys who don’t fully understand the generative AI technology being at risk of possible professional discipline.
Antitrust Implications of AI Technology Remain Key Focus of U.S. Regulators
In recent times there has been a wave of conjecture about generative artificial intelligence, and many companies have begun utilizing AI throughout their business practices. However, as the technology becomes interwoven throughout commercial operations, AI could potentially risk in antitrust.
How Will AI Disrupt Legal Billing? Early Innovations Offer Some Clues
Legal analysts have stated that the legal industry has been disrupted by technology in the past but not in such a quick rate as it has with AI. There are also claims that it has disrupted the Law firm-legal department relationship.
For ‘Unhappy’ Law Firms, There’s Little Recourse From Fast Rising Legal Tech Prices
Many are becoming worried about the possibility of legal tech displacing personnel as it becomes more essential and expensive.
‘Like Pouring Rocket Fuel’: Clarkson Law Firm Attorneys on the Future of Generative AI Litigation
Ryan Clarkson, Tim Giordano and Tracey Cowan from Clarkson Law Firm have spoken to The Recorder. They discuss OpenAI’s newest features, including a Copyright Shield, and the potential AI-related litigation they envision materialising in the near future.
The Future of Generative AI in Legal Tech: Opportunities and Obstacles
Legal professionals can be empowered to improve workflows and performance by the process of strategically implementing generative AI.
Diversity & Inclusion:
The Crucial Role of Women Leaders in Driving Innovation
My 30 years of experience have shown me that any robust business strategy should include investing in female leadership. As the Head of Intellectual Property at a rapidly growing MedTech startup, I recognize the value of mentoring other women in the workplace.
Ga. County Is Fighting a Ruling Requiring It to Pay for a Transgender Deputy’s Surgery
Atlanta Georgia county has been fighting a ruling regarding the surgery of their transgender deputy.
This article discusses how flexibility can provide law firms with competitive advantages and contribute to the growth and success of modern law firms.
‘Affirmative Recruiting’ Under Title VII
This article discusses how, diversity initiatives have been under scrutiny after ‘Students for Fair Admissions’, it is causing some to wonder whether affirmative recruiting remains permissible under Title VII.
Changing of the Guard at Bennett Jones Heralds the First Black CEO at a National Canadian Law Firm
Hugh Mackinnon is stepping down from his CEO position at Bennet Jones Heralds and is being replaced by Dominique Hussey who will be co-chair along with John Mercury and is the companies first black female managing partner.
Belonging: Unveiling the Lesser-Known Twin of Diversity and Inclusion
With the topic of diversity and inclusion being circulated more and more within legal spheres and in society at large, this article provides an opportunity to delve into a slightly different aspect of the conversation.
Market Commentary:
‘It’s Career-Ending’: How Division Over Israel-Gaza Is Tearing Through Big Law
Interviews with Am Law 100 partners and messages seen by Law.com International reveal partners fearing for their careers for disagreeing with their leaders, the policing of social media activity, and lawyers from rival firms getting involved.
What Drives Board Effectiveness?
This article discusses the importance of effective governance and how general counsels are responsible for the effectiveness of board activities.
Ex-FTX GC Can Sun Starting New Crypto Exchange
Former General Counsel Can Sun has partnered with Armani Ferrante a known crypto company found to start a new exchange. This news has been released not long after Can Sun testified against Sam Bankman-Freid.
For Big Law Profits This Year, Collections Remain the ‘Big If’
Citi’s Gretta Rusanow has been reported as stating “This could be a decent year if firms are able to speed up collections from now through year-end. So, that’s the big ‘if’,”.
Big Law Mergers: How to Catch a Falling Knife
History suggests that acquiring a “falling knife firm” can be accretive for the acquiring firm but that it requires something of the order of a 30% reduction in the equity partner ranks at the acquired firm, Hugh Simons writes.
Commentary: What Law Finance Group Looks for in a Litigant
This article discusses what makes a good litigant. Law Finance Group’s Brendan Dyer spoke to Goodwin’s Keith Zullow and Yoko Bian on this topic.
Solicitor convicted of tipping off client about money laundering probe
The first solicitor ever to have been prosecuted by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) for ‘tipping off’ a client about a money laundering investigation has been convicted in recent news.
Local Firms Lament the Advance of International Giants in Africa
Domestic firms on the continent say ‘we need to create a level playing field to allow African firms to also grow’.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
White & Case Adds Ropes Partner In London
Emily Brown joins White & Case’s global mergers & acquisitions practice and global private equity industry group after almost three years at Ropes & Gray, where she was part of the asset management group.
Paul Hastings Secures Restructuring Co-Chair With KKR Hire
William Needham will join the firm as co-chair of its European restructuring practice, working alongside London office co-head Mei Lian. He is expected to start at the firm imminently, according to a person with knowledge of the move.
Stewarts Hires From Norton Rose for Head of International Arbitration
Litigation boutique Stewarts has hired Norton Rose Fulbright’s head of EMEA international arbitration and head of India practice in London.
Sherina Petit, who is joining after almost 15 years at Norton Rose, will head up Stewarts’ own international arbitration practice from London.
Alston & Bird Hires from Pallas Partners in London
Alston & Bird has brought on Will Hooker from Pallas Partners in London, as it moves to expand its litigation and dispute resolution bench in the U.K.
Hooker joined Alston & Bird on Monday as a partner after almost two years with Pallas in London, where he also was a partner, and five years with Boies Schiller Flexner’s London office, where he rose from counsel to partner, according to his LinkedIn page.
Davidson McDonnell hires Victoria Sterritt to lead new private client team
Northern Ireland firm Davidson McDonnell has recruited former London lawyer Victoria Sterritt to lead a new private client department.
Ms Sterritt is joined in the new private client team by senior solicitors Rachael McKee and Sara Ord.
Eversheds Sutherland absorbs group of KWM lawyers in London
Eversheds Sutherland’s international arm has taken on a group of former King & Wood Mallesons’ (China) London partners and staff as part of the cooperation agreement the two firms announced back in July. The group moving across to Eversheds’ London office includes five partners, 10 lawyers and an additional eight business services staff, representing the bulk of KWM’s London office. The five London partners moving across include three from the corporate team – Greg Stonefield, Joseph Newitt and Barri Mendelsohn – and two commercial dispute resolution lawyers – James McKenzie and Wilson Antoon.
EMEA
Longtime Weil Partner Joins Major Lindsey to Advise Firms on European Expansion
A retired Weil Gotshal & Manges partner credited with establishing the majority of the firm’s offices in Europe has taken a job at global recruiting firm Major Lindsey & Africa, where he will play an advisory role to law firms seeking to grow on the continent.
Joe Tortorici, who retired from the Weil partnership in June 2020, started at Major Lindsey this month as an adviser to law firms serviced by MLA’s partner practice group, the search firm announced Thursday.
APAC
Goodwin Hires Debt Finance Partner from White & Case Hong Kong
Goodwin Procter has bolstered its debt finance practice in Asia with the partner hire of debt and leveraged finance lawyer Stephen Howard, who was most recently a local partner at White & Case in Hong Kong.
Herbert Smith Freehills Loses Aviation Partner Duo in Singapore
Herbert Smith Freehills has seen the departure of two aviation finance partners, Siva Subramanian and Samuel Kohlemainen, in Singapore.
Subramanian has already joined Singapore law firm Allen & Gledhill as the firm’s head of aviation finance and co-head of its maritime and aviation practice, while Kohlemainen is still serving out his notice at the firm but it is unclear where he is headed. Kohlemainen was unavailable for comment.
Han Kun Corporate Partner Joins Clyde & Co in Hong Kong
A former partner at Beijing firm Han Kun Law Offices, Charles Wu, has recently left the firm to join Clyde & Co as a U.S.-qualified counsel in Hong Kong.
China’s Haiwen Continues Strategic Hiring Spree with Addition from Alibaba
Beijing-brd Haiwen & Partners has hired private equity and M&A lawyer, Duan Fu, who was most recently a senior legal counsel at Chinese e-commerce behemoth Alibaba Group and the general counsel of Alibaba New Retail Fund. Fu is joining Haiwen as an international partner as the Chinese firm continues to deepen its rank of senior lawyers with international backgrounds. Just this year, the firm has already hired three partners from Herbert Smith Freehills including the firm’s former Beijing managing partner Tom Chau, and two other partners from Mayer Brown.
The Americas
Arnold & Porter Adds Johnson & Johnson Regulatory Affairs VP
Philip Desjardins’ experience will help build out the firm’s growing medical device practice, Arnold & Porter said.
Foley & Lardner Scoops Up Former Prosecutor From Carlton Fields in Tampa, Bolstering Tech Expertise
Joseph Swanson comments “[Foley’s] Tampa office is very strong, and it’s growing. The firm’s overall national footprint and platform are very attractive to me, both from a cybersecurity and privacy standpoint, as well as the white collar and government enforcement standpoint. They have very robust practices in both of those areas that I look to contributing to.”
Northern District Criminal Division Chief Heads to Goodwin in San Francisco
Katherine Wawrzyniak, the deputy chief of the criminal division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California, joined Goodwin as a partner.
A&O Partner Jumps to Sidley in Wake of Shearman Merger Vote
Greg Lavigne is one of several partners who have departed Allen & Overy and Shearman in recent months in the wake of the two firms announcing their plans to merge.
Alston, Recruiting From Pallas Partners, Expands International Arbitration Group
Will Hooker, from Pallas Partners, will “expand our international arbitration practice and increase our litigation and arbitration presence in London,” said Matt Richardson, co-chair of Alston’s litigation group.
Wachtell Appoints New Leadership, Naming Nussbaum and Savitt as Co-Chairs
Ed Herlihy and Daniel Neff will remain on the firm’s executive committee.
Proskauer has added first-chair trial lawyer Joseph (Joe) Drayton as a partner in its intellectual property group. He joins from Cooley.
Wendy LaManque has joined Pryor Cashman as counsel to the firm’s labor and employment group. She joins from The American Guild of Musical Artists, where she was counsel and director of organizational compliance.
Hogan to Welcome Fewer Than Expected Stroock Partners, but Many Were Firm Leaders
A total of 28 partners from dissolving firm Stroock & Stroock & Lavan are scheduled to join Hogan Lovells on Nov. 15, the latter firm said Wednesday. The group includes equity and nonequity partners in real estate, transactions, litigation and tax, including several who held leadership roles, such as Jeff Keitelman, Christopher Doyle and James Bernard.
With Government Investigations Rising, Blank Rome Adds White-Collar Litigator in Dallas
Katten Muchin Rosenman white-collar defense partner Barrett Howell joined Blank Rome in Dallas on Tuesday, as the firm builds out the 4-month-old office.
Longtime Syracuse Prosecutor to Return, While Several Newcomer DAs Voted Into Office Upstate
For Manny Nneji, a Nigerian American who is believed to be the first Black person to hold the post, it was his first run for public office.
On the Move and After Hours: Faegre Drinker; Post Polak; Riker Danzig; Jones Jones; Keating Law Firm
Riker Danzig announced that Liz Small joined the firm as counsel in the securities litigation, arbitration, regulation and investigations group.
After 7-Month Stint at Quinn Emanuel, Crowell Partner Returns
“I don’t think I appreciated it the way I should have when I was here my first stint,” said Michael Shaheen about Crowell.
Longtime Weil Partner Joins Major Lindsey to Advise Firms on European Expansion
Joe Tortorici helped build the New York firm’s footprint in Europe and later in the Middle East.
Sidley Hits Paul Weiss Again for 4-Strong NY Private Equity Team
Sidley Austin has hired three partners and a counsel from rival Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison in a boost to its M&A and private equity group in New York, building on its major partner additions in London earlier this year.
Jeffrey Kochian, Gerald Brant and Brittany Harrison all join the firm as new partners from Paul Weiss, Sidley said in a statement.
In-House
Ex-Legal Ops Chief at Meta and Coinbase Takes COO Post at ‘Rocket Ship’ SpotDraft
“Very quickly in the process, after they asked me whether I wanted to do this, I started asking myself why I wouldn’t do this. And I didn’t have a good answer to that question,” said Akshay Verma, SpotDraft’s newly hired COO.
Blackstone Attorney Takes Legal Reins at Atlanta’s Progress Residential
Ama Romaine has joined Progress Residential, the nation’s largest owner of single-family rental homes—a segment that has seen torrid growth.
PLW People in the News—Nov. 7, 2023—Sweeney & Sheehan, Barley Snyder
On October 27th, 2023, Partner Patrick J. Sweeney started his one-year term as President of the Defense Research Institute. DRI is the largest international membership organization of attorneys defending the interests of businesses and individuals in civil litigation with 29 substantive law committees.
NPR Attorney for Quarter-Century Takes Legal Reins of Public TV Advocacy Group
America’s Public Television Stations COO Lonna Thompson said Michelle Shanahan “will be a great asset to our stations on a broad variety of legal and regulatory issues arising in our media industry.”
Chipotle Snags Petco’s Legal Chief to Lead HR
CEO Brian Niccol said newly hired HR chief Ilene Eskenazi “will be instrumental in growing Chipotle’s culture of people development.”
Fox Corp. Hires Campbell Soup’s Legal Chief to Succeed Viet Dinh
Fox Corp. has tapped Campbell Soup general counsel Adam Ciongoli to replace departing chief legal and policy officer Viet Dinh.
Stroock Co-Managing Partner to Lead New Labor Practice at Steptoe, Joined by 2
Alan Klinger said Thursday he is making the move with fellow partner Dina Kolker and special counsel David Kahne. Steptoe & Johnson is also assuming Stroock’s lease in Los Angeles.
Tegna Taps Vox Media Veteran for Chief Legal Officer Role
Tegna, which owns 66 TV stations in 54 markets, has filled its legal chief vacancy with Lauren Fisher, who has deep digital media experience, including stints at Hulu and AOL.
Vox Media Taps Deputy GC to Lead Legal Team After Top Lawyer Departs
CEO Jim Bankoff called newly appointed General Counsel Brian Leung “an empathetic leader who manages our risks and opportunities with a deep understanding of and care for our business and our people.”
Blackstone-Backed Music-Management Company Hires First GC
BMG veteran Jonathan Baker is taking the legal reins of Hipgnosis Song Management, which is run by former Elton John and Beyoncé manager Merck Mercuriadis.
US healthcare giant McKesson has hired Michele Lau as its next legal chief, replacing Lori Schechter who is retiring next year, the company said in its quarterly earnings report and first reported by Bloomberg.
Harris Beach’s Thomas Garry to Serve as Counsel to Biden’s Re-Election Campaign
Garry helped turn back false claims about former President Barack Obama’s place of birth, and Donald Trump before the businessman entered politics.
Promotions & Appointments:
Major DC-Area Hospital System Promotes Deputy GC to Top Lawyer
Ken DeStefano, Adventist HealthCare’s general counsel for the last 25 years, is retiring and passing the reins to his top deputy, Dwayne Leslie.
Two Law Firms Elect New UK Senior Partners
The incoming senior partners at both firms are set to step into their new roles early next year. At CMS, UK corporate co-head Charles Currier has been named as the successor to Penelope Warne. At Travers Smith, Andrew Gillen will succeed Siân Keall.
Herbert Smith Freehills CEO Wins Second Term
Justin D’Agostino was first elected to the CEO role in 2019, taking up the position in May 2020.
Wilmer’s Jamie Gorelick Turns Over Reins of Strategic Response Practice
As Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr seeks to enact “generational change,” Washington, D.C., litigator Jamie Gorelick is stepping back as co-chair of the firm’s prominent crisis management and strategic response group, though will remain chair of the firm’s regulatory and government affairs department, which oversees the practice.
People in the News—Nov. 9, 2023—Barley Snyder, Sweeney & Sheehan
Barley Snyder announced that partner Kevin C. Myhre has been elected vice chair of the patent law committee for the American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA).
White & Case’s New Africa Leader Looks to Leverage Region’s Mining, Energy Opportunities
White & Case has appointed London partner Deji Adegoke as the head of its Africa practice to solidify the international firm’s presence on the continent and capitalise on business opportunities.
Although not announced formally, Adegoke took on the role from partner Mukund Dhar and his appointment was effective from November 1, as confirmed by a spokesperson of the firm.
Carsten Zatschler SC joins UCD as adjunct full professor
Carsten Zatschler SC has joined UCD Sutherland School of Law as an adjunct full professor.
LK Shields promotes litigation lawyer Muireann Granville to partner
LK Shields has promoted Muireann Granville to partner in the firm’s litigation team. Ms Granville joined the firm as a litigation associate in 2016, advising clients on a wide range of commercial disputes.
Carson McDowell promotes 11 across Belfast and Dublin
Carson McDowell has announced 11 promotions across its offices in Belfast and Dublin, including eight senior associates and three associates across its teams.
The new senior associates are Judith Rountree in the defence insurance litigation team, Gavin Kerr in construction, Emily Smith in NI healthcare claims, Emma Stephenson in real estate, Kathryn Laverty in corporate, Rachel Toner in commercial, Rachel Lewis in banking and finance, and Stephanie Johnston in healthcare, regulatory and professional discipline.
The new associates are Shannon Gawley in the commercial team, Andrew McWilliams in real estate and Ciara Fitzpatrick in NI and ROI healthcare claims.
Cian MacGinley to head real estate department at Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland Ireland has appointed partner Cian MacGinley as head of its real estate department.
Mr MacGinley, who has been with the firm for over two decades, takes over the leadership fo the department from Joseph Stanley, who will continue as a real estate partner.
BCLP adds 24 to partnership in latest promotions round
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) has elevated 24 lawyers to partnership in its 2024 promotions round.
That is a 14% increase on its 2023 intake, when 21 lawyers made partner. However, there was a significant drop off in the proportion of female promotions, with women making up 25% of the 2024 cohort, compared to 38% this year.
Hill Dickinson names successor for veteran CEO
Hill Dickinson has named business services group head Craig Scott as its next CEO, replacing long-serving leader Peter Jackson who will step down at the end of April next year.
Mergers & Alliances:
Fieldfisher to Part With Italian Operation
Fieldfisher has announced the end of its arrangement with its partner firm in Italy.
The U.K. law firm and Italy’s Studio Associato Servizi Professionali Integrati (SASPI)—made up of lawyers and tax accountants—merged in 2016 and have since operated as Fieldfisher Italy, structured as a Swiss verein.
Office Openings & Closing:
Manatt Launches in San Diego With the Southern District’s Top Prosecutor
“We have hundreds of clients in San Diego, and all of the industry sectors that are prevalent and strong in San Diego happen to be the same sectors that we are strong in,” Manatt managing partner Donna Wilson said. “You can’t get someone who is more tied to the legal and business community than Randy Grossman.”
One of China’s Biggest Law Firms Plans to Launch Trio of Offices in Japan, South and North Korea
If successful, Jingsh will be the only Chinese law firm to have an office in North Korea. It will also be the first Chinese law firm to be operating in the country.
Eversheds Sutherland absorbs group of KWM lawyers in London
The deal meant KWM would close its six offices in the UK, Europe and Middle East, with select KWM staff being invited to join Eversheds, subject to practice needs.
Financials:
Milbank Raises Associate Salaries and Announces Year-End Bonuses
The firm’s chair pointed to “a very, very busy year” across the firm—one in which productivity was “materially” increased, as well as increasing cost of living.
Cravath Adds Non-Equity Tier as Big Law Makes Structural Changes for Competitive Pay
Cravath has been approaching counsel-level attorneys about joining its non-equity tier since at least last summer, according to one Am Law 50 firm leader.
Top Performers ‘Likely’ to Raise Associate Pay After Milbank’s Move, but Broad Hesitancy Lingers
The market hesitation was underscored by the lack of immediate, similar moves. Some firms were still waiting on other market leaders to move, sources said.
Associate Pay Raises Escalate GC Fears of Billing Rate Hikes
Some GCs are voicing concerns about further rate hikes after associate pay raises. But Milbank’s chair said the salary raises wouldn’t have a material effect on its billing rate decisions in the future.
Why Concealing PEP isn’t Always the Best Idea
A few firms have omitted PEP from their most recent financial results—there’s really only one way the market will interpret this, writes The London Lawyer.
Technology & Innovation:
Artificial Intelligence: Balancing Opportunity and Antitrust Risk
While artificial intelligence is an evolving technology with promising use cases, it is also attracting regulatory scrutiny.
Is Your Company Using Artificial Intelligence Intelligently?
In this installment of our ongoing series on e-discovery and information governance, we will delve into the world of AI and discuss how organizations can mitigate legal and compliance risks and maintain an evolving approach to an equally evolving technology.
IAPP AI Governance Conference Takeaways: Job Replacement Fears, Algorithmic Audits and AI Ethics
IAPP’s first ever AI Governance Global 2023 conference in Boston discussed how AI governance can fit into today’s data privacy regime while also allowing technology to flourish.
Reinventing the Legal Department: A Roadmap to Integrating AI for Strategic Business Advancement
Previously seen as gatekeepers of compliance and risk management, corporate legal departments now play a crucial role in strategic decision-making and business innovation, including the integration of AI into legal operations.
The AI Revolution In the World of Architecture: Perils and Promises
The artificial intelligence (AI) revolution is underway in nearly every industry, including the real estate industry, but have the consequences of such use in the world of architecture been fully considered?
Are ‘End-to-End’ CLM Systems Possible? Oftentimes, It Depends on the User
Many CLM systems have added numerous capabilities to fit the “end-to-end” label. But users often find themselves disappointed—leading some to wonder if “end-to-end” is even possible.
GAI’s Promise Delivered: A Deep Dive into Real-World Productivity Gains
A recent study from Harvard Business School presents a compelling case for GAI’s transformative potential on knowledge worker productivity and quality.
Lawyers’ Main Barriers With Tech Adoption: Organizational Challenges, Lack of Skills, and Fear
While most lawyers respondents in the Future Ready Lawyer 2023 survey, conducted by Wolters Kluwer, said that they wanted to explore new technologies, some worried that organizational barriers and a lack of skills could inhibit such endeavors.
Al Tamimi Adopts Legal AI Harvey
The law firm will be one of the first in the region to enhance the platform’s Arabic-language proficiency.
A Green Pivot: Adaptive Repurposing of Vacant Office Buildings into Growth Operations
While transforming existing buildings for alternative purposes is not a new concept, this article seeks to explore the feasibility of alternative repurposing options with a focus on pre-existing New Jersey office buildings; namely, converting vacant New Jersey office space into vertical farms or cannabis growth operations.
The Evolving Role of Lawyers Navigating the AI Co-Pilot or ‘Assistant’ Era of Legal Practice
The AI Co-Pilot 4-Stage Maturity Model shows how AI can be used in law, starting with essential AI tools and ending with advanced features that give law practitioners more capabilities as their roles evolve.
Onit Launches Generative AI-Powered Contract Management Tool ‘Catalyst for Contracts’
The contract solution comes with a chat feature designed to let users have conversations with their contracts and ask questions about clauses, draft language or find inconsistent terms, among other use cases.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Discovering Dissatisfaction: Why UK Associates are Unhappy
An in-depth survey of nearly 200 UK associates at large law firms has found nearly a third feel morale has dropped over the last year, with emphasis on billable hours, salary disappointment and a ‘tough’ office culture among the factors responsible.
Integrating Nonlawyer Professionals in Law Firm DEI Initiatives
Including nonlawyer professionals in law firm DEI initiatives will result in greater engagement, a stronger firm culture, better retention, and increased opportunities for success, which will help to foster a truly diverse legal profession.
In-House Counsel Expect Diversity From Law Firms. New Research Says They Aren’t Getting It
“We’re expecting firms to find a way to get out there and find, groom and support diverse and inclusive talent. Companies are definitely watching,” Ginny Johnson, chief legal officer of Aspen Aerogels, said.
Latham’s New Partner Class Is Male-Dominated, But So Are Many of Its Peers’
The law firm’s new partner class is 38% female, an increase over last year’s 31%. Six of the new partners are based in London.
The Best Law Firms for Pro Bono in the UK, 2023
Dechert, Reed Smith and Hogan Lovells have claimed the top spots for the 2023 pro bono rankings, following months of research by Law.com International.
Having analyzed nearly 50 submissions, Law.com compiled and ranked the top 25 law firms for pro bono in the U.K., as the industry marks the 22nd annual Pro Bono Week.
Being Part of ‘a Modern-Day Miracle’: A Non-Profit’s General Counsel Sees Purpose
As general counsel of the Fred Hollows Foundation, a non-profit that aims to provide affordable eye health care and end avoidable blindness in disadvantaged communities around the world, Katrin O’Sullivan oversees seven different legal entities across 25 mostly African and Asian countries.
Is In-House Pro Bono The Next Frontier ?
There is a growing push among in-house lawyers to participate in pro bono work, despite a distinct lack of opportunity and resource available to them.
Private practice law firms have increasingly embedded pro bono work into their offerings. Indeed, a large number of law firms now count pro bono work towards utilization targets and bonuses, and also appoint designated pro bono counsel.
Most global law firms falling short on responsible business practices, study finds
Many of the world’s largest law firms are failing to properly demonstrate their responsible business commitments to clients, according to a study by Lamp House Strategy.
The inaugural Lamp House Strategy Responsible Business Annual Report showed that less than a quarter of firms (22%) publish a holistic responsible business report, with firms falling short in a wide-range of areas including diversity and sustainability.
Market Commentary:
Momentum in Big Law: Who Has It, Why and What They Do to Keep It
The leaders of Paul Weiss, Davis Polk and Paul Hastings weigh in on how they keep their firms going in the right direction, with some commonalities.
Many Large and Midsize Law Firms Are Recovering. Others Are in ‘No-Man’s Land’
There’s been a “bifurcated” recovery among the Am Law 200, but all segments have cut their first-year associate classes, according to the latest Law Firm Financial Index report.
As Domestic Transactions Stall, Dealmakers Look to LatAm Energy Market For a Charge
“In emerging markets, the needs for energy and infrastructure at reasonable prices are endless,” said Oscar Stephens, a New York-based shareholder for Greenberg Traurig focused on renewable energy and infrastructure financing.
Report Raises Security Concerns About Australian Law Firms Acting for Chinese Entities
The report singles out Ashust and King & Wood Mallesons as being lax on cybersecurity when it comes to advising Chinese clients. Both firms say the report is inaccurate.
There’s More Trust in the Market’: Inside the Rise of Law Firm Spinoffs
“People want to control their own destiny,” one spinoff leader said. “And the number of successful spinoffs makes it easier… there is more trust in the market. Corporate America is more meritorious these days. They are looking for the best.”
Deal Watch: Big Week for M&A, but Big Law Dealmakers Say It May Not Last
“The more significant challenge that leveraged M&A is facing is the breadth of available financing,” noted Ethan Klingsberg at Freshfields.
Big Law Policy Practices Prepare for Busy End of Year
D.C. law firms weigh in on how public policy practices are seeing activity pick up surrounding big agenda items.
Regulations in Latin America Are Tightening, But Deals Are Still Flowing to and from the Region
Although the patchwork of changing laws in the region is eliciting concerns and some countries are even seeing increased interest from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control, lawyers are finding opportunities from capital entering and exiting the U.S.
Report: Tort Lawsuits Stuttered in 2022, But They’re Poised to Bounce Back
The 2023 Torts Litigation Report, by Lex Machina, a division of LexisNexis, found there were 14,375 tort lawsuits filed in federal courts last year, among the lowest levels in a decade.
The M&A and ESG space seem to be creating the most headaches for legal departments.
Law Firm Leaders May Be Tiring of the Job, But That’s Not Why They’ve Been Leaving
An analysis by former Big Law partner Paul Denis of leadership departures over the past few decades shows recent changes may be based less on satisfaction and more on growing tenure length.
As Office Costs Rise, Law Firms Are Unveiling ‘Hybrid’ Workspace
Leaders of Norton Rose and Lathrop GPM pointed to the pandemic as one of the catalysts for rethinking their offices, and both said they contain a mix of open and private/reserved workspaces.
Like Cash, the Days of Holding Client Data Are Numbered
Cyber-attacks on A&O and Kirkland, as well as changing regulations, may engender an age in which large firms no longer hold client data, writes The Global Lawyer.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Paul Hastings Secures Restructuring Co-Chair With KKR Hire
William Needham is set to join the top 25 US firm after nine years at KKR and will co-chair its European restructuring practice with fellow partner Mei Lian.
Stewarts Hires From Norton Rose for Head of International Arbitration
Stewarts has poached Norton Rose Fulbright partner Sherina Petit as the latest hire for its international arbitration practice, the firm announced today (3 November). The disputes expert will also lead the firm’s India team and will assist in its expansion across the Middle East, Africa and Singapore.
White & Case Swoops for Ropes & Gray Partner in London
The partner, Emily Brown will help bolster the firm’s M&A and private equity practice.
Pinsent Masons hires Irish funds partner Conor Durkin
Pinsent Masons has hired funds partner Conor Durkin to lead its funds team in Dublin as it continues to grow its pan-European funds capabilities.
EMEA
Kirkland Lures White & Case, Latham Partners for New Saudi Arabia Office
Adding rising stars from rivals in Riyadh, Kirkland says its new office will be led by an existing corporate partner from Chicago.
McDermott Strengthens Finance Muscle in Munich With Ashurst Partner Hire
He is the fourth partner to join the firm this year, into the Finance Practice. Matthias Weissinger.
Norton Rose Continues South Africa Hiring Campaign With New Clyde & Co Partner
NRFSA’s strategy is to ensure the firm has a bank of senior but younger lawyers to enable it to service clients for decades to come, says CEO.
APAC
Reed Smith Takes Regional Investment Funds Practice Co-Head From Sidley Austin in Singapore
Reed Smith has been actively hiring for its Asia practice and now has 140 lawyers, including nearly 50 partners, across its four Asian offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Hill Dickinson Takes Team of 10 From Ince Hong Kong
The team includes three partners and ‘represents a bold step forward’ for Hill Dickinson’s marine practice.
DLA Piper Adds Real Estate Partner from BCLP In Singapore
DLA has been building its presence in the region, saying ‘Singapore is a key office in our Asia network’.
Goodwin Hires Debt Finance Partner from White & Case Hong Kong
White & Case’s debt capital markets partner Margie Chan has also recently left the firm’s Hong Kong practice.
Herbert Smith Freehills Loses Aviation Partner Duo in Singapore
Subramanian and Kohlemainen both joined HSF in 2018 as part of a four-partner defection from Watson Farley & Williams.
Freshfields Builds US M&A Advisory Capability With Latham & Mayer Brown Partner Hires In Tokyo
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has made simultaneous U.S.-qualified partner hires from Latham & Watkins and Mayer Brown in Tokyo in an effort to win U.S. work mandates from Japanese clients and inbound work from U.S. companies.
Australia’s Hamilton Locke Takes Team of Ten from Clyde & Co.
The departures come after Clyde & Co laid off 10 lawyers in August.
Han Kun Corporate Partner Joins Clyde & Co in Hong Kong
With Wu’s joining, Clyde & Co will count 32 lawyers, led by nine partners, in Hong Kong.
The Americas
Firm With Focus on Latin America Startups Hires Brown Rudnick Practice Chair in New York
The Latin America-focused law firm has recruited Argentine lawyer Alejandro Fiuza, whose cross-border experience includes private equity and venture capital deals.
Former Counsel to New York City Mayor Back at WilmerHale to Lead New Practice
Brendan McGuire advised Mayor Eric Adams as his administration grappled massive influx of more than 100,000 migrants into a city with a “right to shelter” law and a potential federal takeover of the jail complex on Rikers Island, where inmate deaths have spiked in recent years.
Debevoise Lands Goodwin Technology M&A Co-Chair Aly Love Simons
Alessandra “Aly” Simons, after close to 10 years at Goodwin Procter, where she ascended to co-chair of that firm’s technology M&A practice, is joining Debevoise & Plimpton.
With Firm Winding Down, Longtime Stroock Defense Attorney Joel Cohen Heads to Defense Boutique
The announcement of Cohen’s move comes just after Stroock announced that–following a string of grim developments for the 147-year-old firm that has included botched merger talks and mass departures of talent–the firm is forming a wind-down committee to oversee a potential dissolution or restructuring.
Proskauer Hires Cooley IP Litigator in New York
Joseph Drayton is the third first-chair trial lawyer to join Proskauer since October.
Vinson & Elkins Energy/Infrastructure Partner Moves to Simpson Thacher in New York
Vinson & Elkins partner Gabriel Silva joined Simpson Thacher & Bartlett as a partner in the energy and infrastructure practice in New York, as the firm continues to seek out Big Law partners working in that sector.
McDermott Lands Online Platform Litigator from White & Case
Jonathan Hawk has worked with many online platforms over the years and his practice seems well positioned as regulators continue to scrutinize online content such as hate speech.
Latin America-Focused PAG Law Hires Brown Rudnick’s Latin America Practice Chair
The Latin America-focused law firm has recruited Argentine lawyer Alejandro Fiuza, whose cross-border experience includes private equity and venture capital deals.
In-House
Apparel Wholesaler With an Eye on Sustainability Hires Legal Chief
“With her as our chief legal officer, our team, business, vendors and customers will all benefit,” S&S Activewear CEO Fred Meyers said of Alaina Brooks’ hiring.
Teva CLO David Stark Moving On After Two Rough-and-Tumble Decades
“My main criteria for the future will be to work with fantastic humans and to find yet another challenge that puts my experiences to their best possible use,” Stark said in a LinkedIn post.
Specialty Vehicle-Maker Hires Cooper Tire’s Top Lawyer to Replace Ousted GC
“The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement and driving shareholder growth. I look forward to working with the team to reach our goals.” General Counsel Stephen Zamansky said.
Veteran Defense Industry Attorney Lands CLO Role at Former Forcepoint Unit
Raytheon in-house veteran James Wallace is taking the legal reins of G2CI, which has hired its own management team now that it operates as a stand-alone business.
McKesson Taps Its Former Associate GC to Replace Retiring CLO
Michaele Lau is taking the reins of the health care giant, where she previously worked for 13 years.
Philadelphia Museum of Art GC Jumps to Foundation That Aids Deaf Children
Albert Suh, who started his in-house career at Aramark, will be VP of administration and general counsel for the Oberkotter Foundation.
Blackstone Attorney Takes Legal Reins at Fast-Growing Owner of Rental Homes
Ama Romaine has joined Progress Residential, the nation’s largest owner of single-family rental homes—a segment that has seen torrid growth.
Promotions & Appointments:
Morris Nichols Announces New Partners and Special Counsel Promotions
Morris Nichols Arsht & Tunnell announced that Alexandra Cumings and Kyle Pinder have been invited to join the firm partnership, effective Jan. 1, 2024, and Elizabeth Mullin will be promoted to special counsel.
‘We Know Who We Are’: Frank Ryan Reelected DLA Piper’s Americas Leader
Under Ryan’s direction, the firm saw its highest revenue year to date in 2022, growing 6.2% from a strong 2021 to $3.68 billion. The U.S. offices accounted for just over $2 billion of that tally.
CMS and Travers Smith Elect New UK Senior Partners
The incoming senior partners at both firms are set to step into their new roles early next year. Charles Currier and Andrew Gillen respectively.
Mergers & Alliances:
Allen & Overy Sells Majority Stake in Risk Management Division to Private Equity
Inflexion is investing in the £20 million-revenue A&O affiliate, but that the law firm will retain a ‘significant minority stake’.
How Big Law Mergers Succeed: The Quiet Part Out Loud
In short: mergers between healthy firms work, Hugh Simons explains, detailing data that shows adding an unhealthy firm into the mix is a recipe for multi-year declines in PEP rank.
Office Openings & Closing:
Rawle & Henderson Opens a New Wilmington Office
The law firm of Rawle & Henderson—the nation’s oldest law firm—has opened a new office in Wilmington.
As Stroock Plans Its End, Wind-Down Committee to Examine Liabilities
Whether the firm lands in bankruptcy is unknown at this point, sources said, as Stroock will be dealing with both preferred and non-preferred creditors. Its full liabilities are unclear at this point.
Epstein Becker Green Snags Eckert Seamans Employment Benefits Team to Launch Pittsburgh Office
The five new arrivals include two former members of Eckert’s board of directors.
Cooley Opens Miami Office With Sights On Local Tech, VC Community
The tech-focused firm follows Sidley Austin, Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, Winston & Strawn, Kirkland & Ellis and King & Spalding in the bustling South Florida legal market.
Swiss-Korean Litigation Boutique Launches Second European Office
The firm’s latest office launch coincides with the recent hire of international dispute resolution lawyer Arie Eernisse, who was most recently a senior foreign attorney at Big Six South Korean law firm Shin & Kim.
Kirkland Officially Launches Office in Saudi Arabia with Partners from White & Case, Latham
Adding rising stars from rivals in Riyadh, Kirkland says its new office will be led by an existing corporate partner from Chicago.
Mishcon Becomes Latest Firm to Target Saudi Launch
A rule change this year has made it easier for international firms to establish a presence in Saudi, leading to a flurry of launches.
Financials:
Big Law’s Approach to Billing Rate Hikes in 2024
“There’s a lot of people trying to play a little bit of catch-up, and they’ll run out of opportunity runway if there’s a recession,” said Mark Medice, a principal at LawVision and law firm consultant.
Firms Confront Tough Questions About Single-Tier Partnerships in Wake of Surging Profits
The decision to add a non-equity tier is often a play to compete for senior associate and counsel-level talent by offering the title of partner without diluting shares of the firm’s equity, so firms can continue to pay for top-performing talent.
Higher Attorney Pay Brings Southeast Law Firms Closer to New York Scale
The majority of Am Law firms in Atlanta around 2021 “figured out” they were competing with New York firms, rather than only other Atlanta firms, for talent, noted Rebecca Glatzer of Major, Lindsey & Africa.
In Cost-Saving Bid, Legal Departments Snatching Back Work From Law Firms
A newly released survey found departments also are trying to save money by switching from large law firms to smaller ones, and by leveraging artificial intelligence.
Baker McKenzie Unveils Flat Revenue and Profit
The firm’s revenue remained flat this year, after last year’s 5.5% leap forward.
Why Concealing PEP Isn’t Always the Best Idea
A few firms have omitted PEP from their most recent financial results—there’s really only one way the market will interpret this, writes The London Lawyer.
Technology & Innovation:
As a follow up to her April article in this publication, “ChatGPT as a Legal Tool? Ethical Considerations in the Evolving Generative AI Landscape,” Kimbrilee Weber, partner with Norris McLaughlin, continues the discussion, covering some of the caselaw that has cropped up with the rise of ChatGPT, including court rules and privacy issues.
Cooley Launches Cooley D+O, an Online D&O Questionnaire Platform for Clients and Attorneys
The firm plans to soon expand the platform into Cooley D+O 2.0, which will include additional features such as scalable initial public offering filings.
The Artificial Intelligence Imperative for Lawyers
The law school curriculum has long needed an update. We propose that a training in AI be a complement to legal education, not a replacement.
For Law Firms, Will Generative AI Really Be a Major Competitive Differentiator?
Law firms will likely all be relying on a small pool of similar generative AI tools. But that doesn’t mean there will be a leveled playing field.
In the employment discrimination context, the use of AI offers the possibility of eliminating bias from employment decisions, but the current reality may be just the opposite, according to Simpson Thacher & Bartlett’s Chet Kronenberg, Laura Lin and Rachel June-Graber.
AI-Powered App Designed to Simplify Legalese Wins Top Honors at Hofstra Law’s Innovation Tournament
The one-day innovation tournament was held virtually on Oct. 13 and was sponsored by JAMS, the American Arbitration Association and the New York State Bar Association’s Dispute Resolution Section. Nine teams of law and engineering students entered the competition this year.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Susman Godfrey Leaning In to Diversity in Response to Questions About Diversity Programs
Susman Godfrey plans to increase the number of law students participating in its 1L Diversity Fellowship and the number of winners of the Susman Godfrey Prize.
Special Section: Labor & Employment 2023
In The Legal’s Labor & Employment supplement, read about new protections for pregnant and nursing employees, evolving DEI efforts and a push for unions in the arts and culture sector.
Mid-Market Roundup: Firms Embrace Diversity, Business Development Efforts
Welcome to Mid-Market Roundup, where our team of regional editors shares the trends, challenges, opportunities and observations emerging in their markets.
California Bar Report: 77% of Lawyers Disciplined in 2022-23 Were Men
The state bar’s latest discipline report looked at gender, race and ethnicity for the first time.
How Employers Can Embrace DEI Without Inviting Lawsuits
“The way to minimize risk is the engage in conduct that promotes diversity without making decisions or limiting opportunities explicitly on the basis of race or gender,” said Rutgers Law School professor Stacy Hawkins.
DEI Litigation Trends and Risk Mitigation: More Than Semantics
Using precise, thoughtful language in communication about DEI initiatives, both internally and externally, can take the proverbial bullseye off a company. The authors of this column offer some specific examples of how this plays out in practice, identifying high-risk and low-risk alternatives in five common scenarios.
Law Firms, Big and Small, Dominate Latest UK Employer Social Mobility Rankings
Over 40 law firms, more than half the list, were included in the rankings produced annually by the Social Mobility Foundation.
Latham’s New Partner Class Is Male-Dominated, But So Are Many of Its Peers’
The law firm’s new partner class is 38% female, an increase over last year’s 31%. Six of the new partners are based in London.
Market Commentary:
Legal Departments Frustrated by Law Firms’ Lack of Transparency
In-house staffers say in a new survey that they want law firms to provide better visibility into their costs and processes. But the respondents gave the firms high marks for the quality and responsiveness of their communications and for how they collaborate on strategy.
Lateral Moves in California Slow as Firms Shift Focus to ‘Clear-Cut Growth’ Markets
Lateral partner moves in the Bay Area have especially slumped through the third quarter, according to data from two legal industry groups.
In Smaller Litigation Shops, New Partners Emphasize a Focus on Trial Skills
Four newly-minted boutique partners who participated in Law.com’s “How I Made It” series over the past year highlight the striking amount of practice diversity out there in smaller firms.
Big Law Attorneys Are Hitting the Lateral Market. Should Midsize Firms Hire Them?
It’s a buyer’s market for midsize firms across the country as Big Law associates struggle to hit hours and partners get priced out of their own practices.
Associate Support Shortages Are Driving ‘Valuable’ Partner Departures
Partners in their prime business development years, often in key transactional practice areas for the firm they’re at, are leaving for firms that can offer more robust associate teams.
Rise of Fake Lawyers Threatens Legal Practice in Africa
The sensational story of a non-lawyer allegedly masquerading as a qualified attorney in Kenya has led to growing concerns of ‘widespread’ malpractice across the continent.
Big Firms Less Bullish on Growing Leverage Than a Year Ago, Survey Finds
Pre-pandemic, large firms were reserved in making changes to their equity partner head count. “But one of the interesting trends we saw in 2022 was there was a significant jump in firms growing equity partner head count,” one researcher said.
Partners Reluctant to Merge Can Tank Firms’ Chances at Growth, Survival
Stroock & Stroock & Lavan missed its window of opportunity to find a merger partner, and now the firm is shutting down. Could leaders have done anything to secure greater support for their plans?