Diversity & Inclusion:
Daniel Abebe to Become First Black Dean of Columbia Law School
In a letter announcing his arrival, Columbia University President Minouche Shafik described Abebe as “an impressive and experienced academic leader.”
‘Hiding Since I Was Eight Years Old’: Ashurst’s First Openly Transgender Woman Shares Her Story
Senior test analyst at Ashurst Bridgette Metior shares her challenges and successes during Pride Month 2024.
Recently appointed global co-chair of international arbitration at Herbert Smith Freehills, Simon Chapman KC discusses what it’s been like for him to work in an open and accepting atmosphere as a homosexual man.
Mindful of Risks, Holland & Knight’s New Diversity Partner Aims to Maintain ‘Robust’ Strategy
O’Kelly McWilliams takes on the role Tiffani Lee, who held the role since 2008 but was recently promoted to deputy managing partner.
Daniel Gerring, a partner at Travers Smith and a seasoned LGBTQ+ advocate, talks with Legal Business about why it’s critical for legal firms to avoid complacency and how they should keep pushing for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Women legal professionals team up to promote ‘menopause-friendly’ workplace
Managed by eight lawyers and legal business professionals, #menopausematters has published a guide which highlights their personal experiences alongside advice for employers.
Technology & Innovation:
AI Is Old News, Get Ready for Quantum Computing
While artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more commonplace in the legal industry, quantum computing—a new and potentially more disruptive technology—is rapidly approaching.
The application of AI tools needs to be done so cautiously in the absence of clear legal guidelines. This article discusses some of the concerns around user and transaction privacy that businesses and consumers of AI apps should be aware of.
AI Tips in the Legal World: A Paralegal’s Perspective
Melissa Acosta-Amarante believes that AI “can’t replace paralegal professionals, but it is a tool we have to aid us and assist us with our work”.
AI Gold Rush: Are We Repeating the Dot-Com Bubble?
The current AI bubble and the dot-com boom share many similarities, including a cycle of technological progress, consumer enthusiasm, and speculative investment that frequently marks pivotal moments in tech history.
Allens Study Reveals Risks of Using AI for Legal Advice
Allens’ Miriam Stiel said, “I just thought that was quite staggering, that it could not only just get it wrong, but actually change things to make it look much more reliable.”
What Should GCs Be Doing to Prepare for the EU AI Act?
The Artificial Intelligence Act’s extraterritorial reach is one reason why international businesses looking to expand into the EU must be aware of the ramifications.
As Law Firm Tech Options Grow, Keep It People-Focused, Accessible, Urge Tech Experts
Scott Milner of Morgan Lewis suggested using a kind of hands-on empathy to encourage staff members to adopt new technology or methods of operation.
The AI Advantage: Stay Ahead or Fall Behind
Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is dynamic, always changing and improving with each new version that offers more advanced features and enhanced functionality. It is a mistake to wait for AI to reach its pinnacle of development before implementing it.
Mergers & Alliances:
Smokeball Launches Free Product Partnership with Texas State Bar
The Texas State Bar will be the first in the nation to offer free membership access to Smokeball’s trust accounting software to all of its members thanks to a special relationship.
White & Case, Latham Advise on Saudi Aramco’s $11.2 Billion Share Offering
Since Saudi Aramco’s 2019 initial public offering, Aramco’s secondary offering is the largest equity capital markets offering in the Middle East.
Africa Deal Round-up: A&O Shearman, Dentons Lead on $1.3B Morocco Project
Clifford Chance and Slaughter and May are advising parties on the sale of a majority share in Guinness Nigeria in another deal in Nigeria.
Linklaters and Kirkland Lead on $1.8B Tate & Lyle Transaction
Additionally, Weil Gotshal and Skadden, have joined a $1.9 billion private equity transaction.
Simpson Thacher, Anderson Mori Advise Blackstone on $1.7B Offer for Japanese Comic Company
In recent months, the Japanese market has been flooded with assets up for sale as local holding corporations try to reduce their portfolio and concentrate on their core offers and assets.
Javerbaum Wurgaft Announces Begelman & Orlow Merger
Eric G. Kahn, Managing Shareholder said, “We are thrilled to be adding these seasoned attorneys and unique practice areas to our Firm”.
SRA issues warning over law firm mergers
Law firms engaged in their own mergers or acquisitions have received a fresh warning from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) stating that they need to prioritize their customers’ interests and perform sufficient due diligence.
Skadden, Weil shepherd Honeywell’s $1.9bn CAES acquisition
For its $1.9 billion acquisition of the defence technology business CAES Systems from Advent International, which is receiving advice from Weil Gotshal & Manges, Honeywell is represented by Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Cadwalader duo join Greenberg Traurig in London
Today, GT announced the addition of newly appointed Of Counsel William Lo, a former associate at Cadwalader, to its finance and restructuring practice as a shareholder, along with real estate finance partner Duncan Hubbard. Hubbard oversaw the London real estate finance team at Norton Rose Fulbright before both attorneys joined the company at the beginning of 2019.
William Fry recruits’ technology consultant Susan Walsh
Susan Walsh has been hired as a consultant by William Fry to work in the company’s IT department. Ms Walsh specialises in commercial and technology law.
Cleaver Fulton Rankin expands employment and immigration team
The employment and immigration division at Cleaver Fulton Rankin, a commercial law company in Northern Ireland, has grown with the addition of trainee solicitor Ashleigh Wilson and associate director George Kilpatrick.
Walkers appoints Jody Toner as head of real estate
Jody Toner, a partner and the leader of Walkers’ Irish real estate business, has returned to the international law firm.
EMEA
Curtis Expands in Italy, Hiring Veteran Corporate, Compliance Partner in Rome
Gianluca Cattani headed the corporate and compliance division for nearly twenty-four years at Studio Legale Delfino e Associati, an associate of Willkie Farr & Gallagher in Italy.
Dentons Lures Mayer Brown Paris Partner; McDermott Names German Managing Partner
McDermott has appointed Matthias Kampshoff as its managing partner for Germany and Joydeep Sengupta, a partner at Mayer Brown, has joined Dentons’ Paris litigation and dispute resolution group to establish and oversee the compliance and investigations team..
Latham Brings Back Partner After 14 Months at Linklaters
Guccione became a partner at Latham in 2020 and departed in May 2023 to join Linklaters.
APAC
Long-time HFW partner joins Addleshaws as SG head
Energy specialist Chanaka Kumarasinghe, who has spent his whole 22-year career with HFW, has been appointed as the head of Addleshaw Goddard’s Singapore office.
Pag GC to Join MoFo Tokyo as Partner
The appointment of seasoned corporate attorney Gregory Salathé as a partner based in Tokyo will enable Morrison & Foerster to expand its M&A and private equity businesses throughout Asia. Salathé, who is now a partner and group general counsel at investment manager PAG, will join the company in September.
Ex-Trowers KL Senior Associate Returns as SG Partner
Cassandra Lim, a former senior associate at Trowers & Hamlins’ Kuala Lumpur office, has rejoined the UK law firm as a corporate partner in Singapore.
HSF Names Returnee as Tokyo Construction Disputes Head
Ben Jolley, who formerly had an in house position at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), has returned to Herbert Smith Freehills, a global law firm, to lead its construction disputes in Tokyo.
The Americas
People in the News—June 17, 2024—Gawthrop Greenwood, MacElree Harvey
Gawthrop Greenwood, a legal company, reported that Michael Naseef, who has been a partner there since June 1st, is joining to focus on real estate and corporate law.
Two attorneys from McKuin Frankel Whitehead’s entertainment department have joined Weinstein Senior, which has announced its growth; McGlinchey Stafford has announced the arrival of Shanlon Wu, who will join the firm as a member (partner) in its Washington D.C. office.
Martin Eid and Katie Weiss, partners in structured finance, have returned to King & Spalding. They join the New York office’s Finance and Restructuring practice area.
Milbank Lands Chief Trial Counsel at FTC Amid Growth in Antitrust, Regulatory Practices
Milbank’s Fiona Schaeffer said “Over the past few years, we have really had incredible growth in the antitrust and regulatory practice. Strategically, James Weingarten fits in as a first chair. And we do a lot of deal work and M&A, and James helps in those areas as well”.
Cadwalader, recruiting from Mayer Brown, Adds Securitization and Financial Regulatory Partner
According to Christopher Horn, he intends to counsel the current clientele of his new business in addition to bringing along a few of his existing clients to Cadwalader.
Perkins Coie Hires K&L Gates Partner as Private Capital Chair
Jacquie Duval was recently appointed chair of Private Capital and Fund Formation at Perkins Coie in New York. With more than ten years of experience, Jacquie offers advice to private foundations, venture funds, family offices, and private equity organizations.
Paul Hastings Adds Vinson & Elkins Litigation Partner in Dallas
Partner Manuel Berrelez of Vinson & Elkins joins the substantial financial team that migrated to Paul Hastings in Dallas and Houston in March at the company’s Dallas location.
Mayer Brown Recruits Gibson Dunn Partner to Co-Lead Employment Litigation Practice
Matthew Ingber, managing partner of the firm’s New York office stated that Gabrielle Levin’s addition is “a clear indication of our commitment to developing a versatile practice in New York”.
Shutts & Bowen Rehires Tallahassee Partner Who Left in 2023 to Help Found Boutique
With the support of a former Florida Supreme Court justice, a former general counsel to Governor Charlie Crist, and a former managing partner of Shutts & Bowen’s Tallahassee office, Amber Nunnally left in January of last year to help start Lawson Huck Gonzalez.
LA Piper Hires Partner Pair from Reed Smith in New York
According to the company, the two offer to DLA Piper specialized knowledge pertaining to agreements with the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
Morrison & Foerster Hires Ex-SEC Adviser as Governance Partner
Ryan Adams leaves Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom to join Morrison & Foerster.
Littler Brings In Third Toronto Partner in Two Months
The spring lateral rush has subsided a little, but in the past week, Littler Mendelson, Gowling WLG, and Borden Ladner Gervais have all welcomed new attorneys.
Withers Hires Veteran Commercial Litigator in New York
Stephen Younger, a commercial litigator in New York, announced on Thursday that he was moving to an international law firm, Withers, for the third time in as many years.
Cozen O’Connor, Faegre Drinker Add to State AGs Practices
In addition to former New York deputy attorney general Avi Schick, Faegre Drinker has named former Arkansas attorney general Dustin McDaniel as a co-chair of the Cozen O’Connor practice. In the past, Schick oversaw the government investigations, compliance, and enforcement practices in New York for Troutman Pepper Hamilton & Sanders.
Morrison Foerster, Gibson Dunn, DLA Piper, McGlinchey Bring on DC Lateral Partners
Steve Dixon was hired by DLA Piper from Steptoe, and Ryan Adams was brought on by Morrison Foerster from Skadden. Additionally, Victoria Lauterbach left Foley Hoag to work for Gibson Dunn.
People in the News—June 21, 2024—King Spry, Blank Rome
Rachel Sokolsky has joined the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based firm King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul’s special education legal practice.
Cox Castle Hires New Construction Litigation Partner
After working with Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald for 12 years, Robert Shaia now works for Cox Castle.
Midsize Moves: Chapman and Cutler Scoops Rivkin Radler Partner, Hall Estill Hires Two Associates
The banking and financial services division and commercial lending group of Chapman and Cutler have welcomed Michael Twersky as a partner. Hall Estill also announced the addition of Margaret White and Morgan Lawson as associates to the firm’s Oklahoma City office.
In house
Parent of Perkins, Huddle House Hires Ex-Panera GC as Legal Chief
Louis DiPietro’s employment was announced on Monday by Ascent Hospitality, the franchisor of the two businesses, which together have around 600 locations. Ascent Hospitality is based in Atlanta.
Bumble Finds Successor to Legal Chief Who Moved On in Its Own Hive
In 2018, Elizabeth Monteleone began working as legal counsel for the dating and networking app. She became chief legal officer six years later.
Paramount General Counsel Heads for Exit in Wake of Failed Merger
In a memo to her legal team departing GC Christa D’Alimonte said “Our work doesn’t often make headlines or get recognized at glitzy award shows, but you are the heart and soul of this company,”.
US tech unicorn Sigma hires first general counsel from San Francisco boutique
Ali Harmer, a San Francisco digital law boutique’s first general counsel, has joined US data analytics software business Sigma.
Team Moves
Foley Expands in Texas with 2 Jackson Walker Litigators, Jones Walker Finance Lawyer
Foley & Lardner hired Jackson Walker litigators Trey McDonald of Houston and James McFall of Dallas because their clients’ requirements were better served by a larger firm.
Financials:
The 2024 DBR 100: Ranked By Gross Revenue
In 2023, the majority of Florida businesses experienced a significant increase in sales over the prior year.
The 2024 DBR 100: Profit Per Equity Partner
In 2023, the earnings per equity partner differed significantly between companies.
The 2024 DBR 100: Ranked By Revenue Per Lawyer
The money generated per lawyer did not show substantial growth for the majority of Florida’s leading firms.
Latham Mulls ‘Super’ Points for Partner Pay, as Industry Makes ‘Tectonic’ Comp Changes
Some observers say “Super” points at Latham as well as the legal industry are gaining traction.
Promotions & Appointments:
Akin Elects Co-Chairs to Succeed Longtime Chair Kim Koopersmith
As the new co-chairs of the company, Daniel Walsh, a corporate partner in London, and Abid Qureshi, a partner in financial restructuring in New York, will apply their firm leadership backgrounds on April 1st, 2025.
Ken Enos, a partner in bankruptcy and corporate restructuring at Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, has been chosen to serve as secretary of the Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Advisors (AIRA).
Reed Smith Cements Its Focus: Meet the New Miami Managing Partner
Reed Smith has named Francisco Rodriguez, a partner in the global commercial disputes practice, as the next managing partner of the Miami office.
Motley Rice Hires New Office Leader to Deepen Mass Torts, Trial Practice in Philadelphia
As the Ozempic mass tort litigation is consolidated in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Michael Daly arrives from Pogust Goodhead.
Four senior appointments at Addleshaw Goddard Ireland
Addleshaw Goddard Ireland has announced the addition of Craig Sowman as joint head of restructuring and insolvency alongside internal promotions for Caoilfhionn Ní Chuanacháin, Doreen Mescal and John Darmody.
Denise Kirwan appointed as director of social work body
Comyn Kelleher Tobin partner Denise Kirwan has been named to the Irish Association of Social Workers (IASW) board as an independent director.
Office Openings & Closing:
Labor & Employment Law Firm Enters Buffalo, Serving ‘Numerous Existing Clients’ in region
Richard Braden, managing shareholder of Ogletree’s Buffalo office said, “the feeling is that there are plenty of clients that need to be serviced throughout New York state beyond New York City”.
Freeman Mathis & Gary Opens Office in Miami Weeks After Fort Lauderdale Launch
For its third Florida office, the Am Law 200 firm with its headquarters in Atlanta is acquiring all of the attorneys from the neighbourhood civil defence firm Klein Park & Lowe.
DC-Area Law Firms Are Looking to Delaware Market for Possible Expansion
The growth attitude carries on the recent trend of D.C. area businesses opening new locations. Covington, Miles & Stockbridge, Steptoe, Venable, and Arnold & Porter have all relocated to new cities in the previous 18 months alone.
MoFo Closing Beijing Office, Partners Relocate
Over the past 12 months, a number of American companies have closed their mainland China offices and reduced their Chinese practice offerings.
Market Commentary:
The Real Impact of the Biden Era on M&A
Elizabeth Suarez, Kaylynn Moss and Terry Calvani write “Changes in the merger review process have undoubtedly increased the cost and resource burden on merging parties”.
Clifford Chance: Where Next for the UK’s Original Private Equity Golden Child?
Although U.S. companies have traditionally hired from the firm’s renowned private equity offering, leaders Jonny Myers and Spencer Baylin think the market is changing in their favour.
For Law Firms, There’s No Substitute For Associate Growth
There are currently about 84,651 associates in the NLJ 500 overall—more than 10,000 more associates since 2018.
Communication—The Often-Overlooked Keystone to Mergers and Acquisitions
Businesses need to continuously consider their long-term objectives, the changes that will result from the deal, and how these changes will impact all parties involved during the M&A process.
How Mentoring Helps Combat Imposter Syndrome in Young Lawyers
One such lawyer in question stated, “Of course, the first thing I discovered as an associate was just how much I didn’t know, even after three years of law school and months of studying for the bar exam. Luckily, coworkers volunteered to be my mentors before I could get overly consumed by myself. Mentoring is essential to development and success for a reason, particularly in the legal field”.
Post-COVID Growth in Africa Fuels Arbitration and Law Firm Strategies
African party activity in the London Court of International Arbitration increased dramatically from 4% in 2022 to 8% in 2023, causing legal firms to plan ahead for this dynamic transition.
Law Firm Headcount Growth Returns to Pre-Pandemic Levels
As some firms grew at slower rates in light of repressed demand on the transactional side, others added to their benches to meet clients’ litigation needs.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Paul Weiss Adds Senior Google Lawyer in Latest London Hire
Ludovic Ghesquiere, who previously led Alphabet’s EMEA regulatory response, investigations, and compliance, will be based in London and California with Paul Weiss.
Another Cadwalader London Partner Departs, This Time to Greenberg
Two people with knowledge of the move say that real estate finance partner Duncan Hubbard is leaving the company to join rival Greenberg Traurig in the United States. Over the course of his 25-year career, he has worked with investors, financial institutions, and global funds.
Travers Smith hires Blackstone Credit legal counsel to bolster funds group
Joel Grossmark becomes a partner and contributes to the expansion of Travers Smith’s retailisation business.
MKB Law welcomes corporate banking specialist Neil Logan
Belfast-based Neil Logan has been hired by MKB Law as a consultant in the corporate, banking, and commercial sectors of the company.
EMEA
Trowers taps Ashurst for Dubai project finance partner
Brad Sandford, whose LinkedIn profile states that he was most recently a senior associate at Ashurst, has joined the firm as a partner in the projects, energy, and infrastructure (PEI) division.
APAC
Dentons Adds Former Dechert Corporate Partner in Hong Kong
This year, Dentons has hired two partners in Hong Kong: Stephen Chan. After parting ways with Dacheng Law Offices in China last year, the company now manages its business in Greater China out of Hong Kong alone.
Gibson Dunn Adds Partner from White & Case in Hong Kong
Daniel Abercromby was formerly a partner at Kirkland & Ellis and Weil Gotshal & Manges.
White & Case Loses Second Partner in Greater China, M&A Lawyer Defects to Hogan Lovells
Following Daniel Abercromby, a finance partner, who departed for Gibson Dunn & Crutcher in Hong Kong, Jiang is the second partner to depart White & Case in Greater China this week.
Asia Pacific Regional Firms Add to their Partner Ranks
Firms including, JunHe, Adnan Sundra, JSA and MinterEllison have all added new partners recently across China, India, Malaysia and Australia.
Ashurst Adds Two Partners to West Australian Office
Australian firm HWL Ebsworth sends Richard Johnson to the firm’s restructuring and exceptional situations department, while Australian firm Johnson Winter Slattery sends Kirsten Scott to the employment team as an investigations partner.
Tokyo International makes two senior hires
Two senior appointments have strengthened Tokyo International Law Office’s roster: in-house counsel Yuri Aihara from Fujifilm and disputes lawyer Victor Sai from Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch in San Diego.
Bengaluru: Sam Hires Infra Partner from JSA
The Indian legal firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co (SAM) has announced its second hire in as many days following the addition of JSA partner Anjana Jamalamadaka Potti, an expert in projects and infrastructure.
JSA Hires Back Banking Partner from S&R Amid Lateral Spree
Indian law firm JSA has re-welcomed banking and finance expert Divyanshu Pandey from S&R Associates as an equity partner, as the firm continues an aggressive lateral hiring spree.
The Americas
Cozen Adds NY Partner Amid Demand for Higher Education Labor Advice
Thomas Giotto, chair of the L&E department said that Sandi Dubin’s addition will help Cozen address “a substantial increase in organizing activities” taking place in higher education and nonprofits across the country”.
Wilmer Hires Latham Partner as Co-Chair of Growing Life Sciences Practice
“We see the biggest growth opportunity in life sciences,” according to Mick Bain, chair of the transactional department.
People in the News—June 11, 2024—Rothman Gordon, Greenberg Traurig
Attorneys at Rothman Gordon have announced that Maria V. Rossi has joined the firm.
Polsinelli Adds to New York Headcount—and List of Recent Real Estate Hires
With roughly 72 attorneys in New York, Polisinelli serves a number of major corporate and healthcare customers who are constantly increasing their real estate holdings.
McGinnis Lochridge Adds Executive Director From Midsize Oklahoma Law Firm
Silvano Parducci said he sees great opportunity as executive director of Austin-founded McGinnis Lochridge, because the Texas market is a ‘hotbed’ right now.
Manatt Hires Crypto Partner in New York, Continuing Growth in Financial Services and Digital Assets
Prior to this, Michael Katz oversaw the legal division of the cryptocurrency venture capital firm Digital Currency Group.
Sidley Adds Cooley Partner to Lead New VC Fund Formation Group
According to Sidley, Shane Goudey has established more than 1,000 funds, spanning from multibillion-dollar venture capital and leveraged buyout funds to early stage and pledge funds.
Schulte Loses Investment Funds Partner to Morgan Lewis
After sitting on the other side of negotiations from her new colleagues representing fund managers and investors, Leonora Shalet claimed she received a call from Morgan Lewis.
Freshfields Adds M&A Partner Joshua Ayal in New York
Over the past ten years, Josh has gained substantial experience in high-profile mergers and acquisitions with both strategic and private equity clients. Apart from his emphasis on mergers and acquisitions, he also counsel’s companies and their directors on problems pertaining to corporate governance and activist defence.
In house
Century-Old Books-A-Million Hires GC to Help Plot Next Chapter
Courtney Adair, Excelon’s assistant general counsel is set to be taking the lead on legal matters.
FisherBroyles Adds Legal Ethics Lawyer as GC as Firm Continues Rebuilding
Since January 1st, the company has added 12 partners, including Devika Kewalramani. Prior to that, 128 partners, including its previous general counsel, left to create Pierson Ferdinand, one of the biggest law firm spinoffs ever.
Seagate Technology Hires Former Senior Aramark Attorney as Legal Chief
The third IT company where Jim Lee has held a senior legal position is the massive data storage company.
Skadden Hires First Chief People Officer as More Law Firms Take Holistic Approach to Talent
Skadden said Annemarie Crouch “will lead all aspects of the firm’s people strategy for lawyers and business professionals”.
Exxon Hires Fox Corp.’s General Counsel as Its New Top Lawyer
Jeffrey Taylor is joining the oil and gas behemoth after failing to secure the position of chief legal officer at Fox when it became available last year.
M&A Guru Taps Familiar Face to Lead Legal for Growth-Hungry Startup
Brad Jacobs, a serial entrepreneur, has appointed Christopher Signorello as QXO’s chief legal officer. QXO wants to grow to be a $50 billion company in the building supplies distribution market.
BeReal GC Departs as App Sold in $500M Deal, Weil and Orrick Lead
The GC leaves after just over a year in the role following its takeover by fellow French app developer Voodoo.
ExxonMobil names former Fox lawyer as next GC
Craig Morford, who will retire at the beginning of July, will be replaced by Jeff Taylor.
US data storage business Seagate fills vacant CLO seat with Maxar hire
Kate Schuelke, who joined Credo Technology in January, is replaced by Jim Lee.
Susan Small is appointed as General counsel at the London Metal Exchange Group
Susan will start working there in June and will answer to the CEOs of LME and LME Clear. She comes from J.P. Morgan’s Corporate and Investment Bank (CIB), London, where she was previously the head of the EMEA Markets Practice Group and the Deputy General Counsel for the CIB in EMEA.
Team Moves
ArentFox Schiff Recruits 13-Lawyer Team, in Latest Group Exit from Burns & Levinson
The 13-attorney IP and litigation group that ArentFox Schiff hired from Burns & Levinson has joined its Boston office, becoming the most recent group to leave the Boston-based firm this year.
Willkie Raids Latham for 11-Lawyer Restructuring Team in Major German Expansion
As part of its new German strategy, Willkie Farr & Gallagher has brought in counsel Jan-Philipp Praß and a group of seven associates, as well as former Latham bankruptcy and restructuring attorneys Jörn Kowalewski, Ulrich Klockenbrink, and Hendrik Hauke.
4-Partner Cadwalader Team Moves to King & Spalding
The increased emphasis on financial work is driving the move, according to several with knowledge of the plans.
Cooley Grows Compensation, Benefits Practice With Cadwalader, Wilson Sonsini Partners
With the growing number of public company customers seeking assistance on increasingly comprehensive compensation and benefits matters, Cooley expands its team by adding partners in San Diego and Washington, D.C.
Norton Rose Fulbright Lands a Dozen Attorneys From BCLP, Adding to Global Investigations Practice
While Laura Perlov and Jeff Ziesman have been with the team for more than ten years, new partners Jeff Kalinowski and Eric Martin have collaborated for almost twenty-five years. The others are located in St. Louis, but Perlov is based in Denver.
Rimon Deepens Global Lending Practice With Group From Akin
Two former colleagues joined three partners who had come from Akin to Rimon in London and Washington during April and May.
Gatti Pavesi Bianchi Ludovici Adds 4-Lawyer Finance Team in Milan
The appointments follow the addition of seven lawyers to the Italian firm’s Milan office in the previous month.
Former Linklaters Real Estate Partner Leads 7-Lawyer Exodus to Local Swedish Firm
Former real estate transactions practice heads Magnus Lidman and Anna Eriksson take with them five associates to Gernandt & Danielsson
Diversity & Inclusion:
Diversity Lab Hackathon Targets DEI Headwinds, Inclusive Talent Management
Diversity Lab’s “Moments to Movements Hackathon” assembles more than 100 law firm partners, in-house leaders and others to address leading issues in diversity, equity and inclusion.
How to Navigate and Respond to Government Alerts on Attending Pride Events in the US, Abroad
These alerts, while prioritizing safety, evoke painful memories of past attacks and heighten anxieties about the ongoing threats faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
Rising Stars: The UK Legal Industry’s Best Up-and-Coming Black Lawyers, 2024
Law.com International has released its first list of 10 outstanding Black lawyers under 40 who practice law in the UK.
Great minds don’t think alike – why LGBTQ+ allyship is a business must-have
An increasing number of law firms are beginning to embrace corporate allyship, but what are the tangible actions behind the rainbow marketing?
How Carey Olsen drives gender diversity and inclusion
Carey Olsen, an offshore legal practice, has put in place a number of programs to encourage inclusion and diversity, with a focus on gender diversity.
Financials:
Canadian In-House Counsel Salaries Up 9%, Report Shows
The basic salary difference between corporate lawyers who are male, and female is still made present by the results of the annual report, but it has narrowed somewhat from the previous year.
The UK Law Firms With the Highest Profit Margin
A review of LLP accounts shows that the top five operational profit margin-achieving corporations in the UK Top 50 are still the same five.
De Brauw Revenue Bounces Back After Slump
Prior to COVID, the company recorded sales of €200 million; by 2022, that amount had dropped to €177 million.
Hogan Lovells Overtakes Slaughter and May on NQ Pay
In recent weeks, A&O Shearman, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Clifford Chance, and Linklaters have all decided to raise their own wages to £150,000.
Watch: 4 Worrying Numbers for the UK Top 50 Law Firms
Paul Hodkinson, editor-in-chief of Law.com International, describes how the biggest corporations’ fundamental health has gotten worse.
Sidley Raises NQ Rates Again as Pressure to Join Fray Mounts
The Chicago-based company is increasing its prices to £175,000 from £166,500, which it established only a few months before in January, according to an individual with knowledge of the situation.
Pay for Autodesk Legal Chief Jumped 37% in Latest Year
Ruth Ann Keene, who spent 11 years at the software maker before departing in 2016 for a legal chief post elsewhere, returned in 2022 when her former boss retired.
Latham & Watkins proposes ‘super points’ for stars to boost pay above $20m
The planned changes coincide with a fierce pay war among elite US law firms that has driven top partners’ salary packages above $20 million.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—June 12, 2024—Barley Snyder, McNees
Barley Snyder declared that attorney Caitlin M. Long has been appointed to the board of directors of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Berks County, and attorney Zachary D. Griffith has been elected vice president.
Changes at BBB Attorneys: Personal Injury Litigators Added, 2 Trial Lawyers Promoted to Partner
Zachary Reiland and Christopher Kenworthy are joining the group after more than 30 years of private practice experience between them, and BBB promoted two lawyers internally (Kenneth Krayeske and Megan Boorsma) to partner in recognizing its “commitment to the firm and its clients.”
As New Chair Takes Reins of Winston, He Wants to Do Things A Little Differently
Steve D’Amore has employed a small management team that includes four other partners to handle areas such as talent, branding and overall strategy.
Fenwick Elliott rings in new senior partner after 23 years
Next April, Karen Gidwani will take over as head of the UK construction and energy boutique, replacing seasoned leader Simon Tolson.
Clyde & Co and RPC partners step up as LIDW co-chairs
In addition to Henrietta Jackson-Stops, Loukas Mistelis and Jonathan Cary will chair London International Disputes Week.
New Managing Partner and Heads of Commercial Disputes for Hausfeld in London
Nicola Boyle is set to become Hausfeld’s new Managing Partner in London. In addition, Lucy Pert and Ned Beale will become Co-Heads of the Commercial Disputes Team.
Mergers & Alliances:
Deal Watch: As PE Deal Activity Ramps Up, Skadden, Paul Weiss, Latham Lead $11B Chip Deal
It is unreasonable to separate the private equity sector’s relative performance from the M&A markets as a whole.
Mid-Market Buffalo-Based Firm Continues Expansion Plan in Combination with Health Care Boutique
Together with the 11-attorney health care law boutique CCBLaw, the Buffalo-based mid-size firm Lippes Mathias has expanded into the Syracuse region, adding a 15th legal market to its ever-expanding nationwide reach.
White & Case Acts as North Sea Oil Company Waldorf Files for Administration
The company has added a restructuring partner in Hong Kong and opened an insolvency business in Australia.
Latham, Orrick and Linklaters Land Roles in €3.1B Budapest Airport Sale
France’s Vinci Airports has been expanding its holdings; it recently acquired airports in Scotland and Mexico.
Investigation Into $2.5B Deal Shows EU Means Business with New Foreign Subsidies Rules
Attorneys claim that businesses should have considered the extra obstacle that the new regulations may present to the completion of M&A transactions.
4 Firms Take Lead Role in CA$5 billion Bank Tie-Up
The second significant bank acquisition in the nation this year is the purchase of Canadian Western Bank by National Bank of Canada.
Burns & Levinson in Merger Talks After Latest Round of Departures
Burns & Levinson, a Boston-based firm that lost 17 employees to ArentFox Schiff, is considering merging with another company in the future or bolstering its staff. According to a statement from Burns & Levinson, “We are exploring several growth options.” Among them is “bolstering our team via senior lateral hires or a merger with another company that supports our dedication to an entrepreneurial and cooperative culture.”
Office Openings & Closing:
Cravath Set for London Office Move
After many years at its current central London site, Cravath Swaine & Moore are moving to a new location in London.
FisherBroyles continues robust performance with expansion to Nevada
Through its Partners, Adam Yowell and Rob Phillips, FisherBroyles will first offer IP and patent litigation services to clients located in Nevada. In the upcoming months, the firm will expand its coverage to include all of its practice areas.
Docvit Latest PRC Firm to Launch Hong Kong Office
In the midst of an increasing number of mainland Chinese legal practices in the city, Beijing-based DOCVIT Law Firm has increased its reach by opening a new office in Hong Kong, making it the firm’s ninth branch nationwide.
Technology & Innovation:
Legal Research, Drafting Startup Alexi Raises $11 Million in Series A Funding
According to Alexi, the company will use the funding to expand its workforce and keep creating new solutions for the legal firm industry.
CaseMark AI Announces $1.7M Seed Funding Round Led by Google-Backed Investment Firm
Over the course of the last year, Google’s parent firm Gradient Ventures has shown interest in at least three legal tech startups, including CaseMark.
Is It Legal and Ethical for Child Custody Evaluators To Use AI?
Our day is one of advanced technology. Artificial Intelligence can help individuals in all aspect of their lives by utilizing a vast reservoir of knowledge. What if the “expert” child custody assessor uses artificial intelligence (AI) to compile their findings?
Tracking Generative AI: How Evolving AI Models Are Impacting Legal
An ongoing collection of the ways that generative AI tools—from GPT technologies to art creation tools and beyond—are continuing to influence the legal landscape.
AAA Launches ClauseBuilder AI to Simplify Drafting of Arbitration and Mediation Agreements
The GPT-4o model from OpenAI powers the new tool, which provides over 500 carefully selected provisions to speed up the creation of understandable and practical ADR agreements for a variety of industry uses.
Lexis Announces General Availability of Lexis+ AI in the UK
After a few months of a commercial preview program and the announcement earlier this month of Lexis+ AI’s equivalent availability in Australia, Lexis formally expanded the generative AI platform to the U.K.
Robin AI Launches ‘Robin AI Reports,’ Automating Contract Report Generation
Robin AI promises to reduce the expense of outside counsel contract reviews for businesses with this new tool.
Filevine Launches New Document Management System ‘Docs by Filevine’
The company is touting unlimited document storage at a lower cost in order to present its new DMS solution as a rival to established providers iManage and NetDocuments.
Draftwise Launches ‘Markup’, Gen AI-Powered Contract Drafting, Review and Redlining Tool
Draftwise announced Markup and added that it will now use Claude 3 Opus, one of Anthropic’s most current generative AI models, noting its broader context window and better memory capabilities.
The Hype Behind Harvey: How Firms Are Using the Gen AI Startup
A number of well-known legal firms and corporations have become clients of Harvey, the legal tech startup supported by OpenAI. This is how a few of them are utilizing the tech.
As Law Firms Embrace AI, Will Dedicated Executive Roles Give Them an Edge?
According to Carlos Pauling, executive director of Major, Lindsey & Africa’s partner practice group, firms need to consider who should be in charge of the development and application of generative AI within their organizations.
Market Commentary:
Young People are Setting the Political Agenda. Can Law Firms Cope?
According to The Global Lawyer, social media has provided young people with a voice and the ability to dictate the political (and moral) agenda, and legal companies are finding it difficult to keep up.
How Attorney Titles in Big Law Can Mean Everything, and Nothing, All at Once
According to one recruiter getting a title suggests “that the partner, and by extension his or her clients, could be prioritized and important to the firm”.
Inflection Point: The Pecking Order of India’s Top Law Firms is Set to Change
Jessica Seah outlines why competitors are expected to overtake the nation’s well-established top legal firms in this week’s edition of Asia Legal Briefing.
Saudi Arabia Considers Relaxing Regulations For Foreign Law Firms
The plan may cause more international legal firms to create offices in Saudi Arabia with less restrictions than those that have been in place recently.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
MKB Law welcomes corporate banking specialist Neil Logan
Belfast-based Neil Logan has been hired by MKB Law as a consultant in the corporate, banking, and commercial sectors of the company.
Richard Surtees, a new partner in employee incentives at Eversheds Sutherland, has joined the company’s specialized global employee incentives division. Richard comes from Slaughter and May, where he was an expert in Executive compensation and share incentives. He received his training and credentials at the US company Covington & Burling before that.
EMEA
Corporate partner duo join Saudi’s K&A
Christian Both and Omar Iqbal join the independent Saudi Arabian law firm’s Riyadh office from Addleshaw Goddard and Baker Botts, respectively.
Kirkland & Ellis adds restructuring muscle in Riyadh with lawyer relocation from London
To head the financial restructuring and capital solutions practice, Husni Almousli has relocated to a different office.
APAC
RPC Takes Another Corporate Partner from Singapore Boutique
Kiat Wee Lau, the newest member of RPC, is a former partner of a Big Four Singaporean company that provides advice on M&A, financial regulation, funds, venture capital, private equity, and private wealth problems throughout Asia Pacific.
Six Partners to Leave Clyde & Co in Australia Following Review
After an assessment of the company, Clyde & Co. is eliminating six partners and adding a salaried partner position to its Australian partnership. For the long-term benefit of clients and the company, the firm has to increase profitability and its operating model, this opinion is based on a message sent to employees by managing partner Rebecca Kelly of the Australia-based firm.
Malaysia’s ASL hires two corporate, finance partners
Adnan Sundra & Low (ASL), a Malaysian law firm, has added banking and finance partner Yong Wee Hoo and M&A partner Liza Uma (L) to its corporate offerings.
The Americas
Outgoing SDNY Deputy US Attorney Lands at Skadden
Andrea Griswold was working at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for more than a decade, moving from line prosecutor to chief counsel to the U.S. attorney and then to deputy U.S. attorney.
Foley & Lardner Hires Former SoftBank GC in San Francisco, Eyeing Fund Formation Opportunities
At SoftBank Investment Advisors, Brian Wheeler assembled a group of 40 lawyers who were responsible for overseeing over $130 billion in assets. He most recently served as general attorney for the technology and art services company HENI.
Quinn Emanuel, Paul Weiss Stock Up on Antitrust Talent in DC
Former DOJ trial lawyer Chris Wilson joined Paul Weiss from Gibson Dunn, while former FTC general counsel Kevin Arquit joined Quinn Emanuel from meat processing behemoth JBS.
Locke Lord Beefs Up in Boston With Burns & Levinson Co-Chair of Business Litigation
Andrea Martin, who came from the recently dissolved midsize Boston firm Burns & Levinson, joined Locke Lord as a litigation partner.
McDermott Taps King & Spalding Lawyer to Grow White-Collar Group in Atlanta
Amy Bentsen, the first partner in the firm’s white-collar criminal defense and investigations practice, has been stationed in McDermott’s Atlanta office for the past four years.
People in the News—June 5, 2024—Pond Lehocky, Eckert Seamans
Jose De Los Santos, a workers’ compensation lawyer, just joined Pond Lehocky Giordano.
Alston, Eversheds, Dentons and Bracewell Bring on DC Partner Hires
Jennifer Everett was recruited by Alston & Bird from Jones Day as a partner in its privacy, cyber, and data strategy division. A portion of Everett’s research will be on artificial intelligence.
Newsmakers: Real Estate Partner Joins Bell Nunnally
Spencer C. Diebel, an attorney, has joined Bell Nunnally as a partner in its Real Estate practice.
On the Move and After Hours: Rimon; Genova Burns; Lindabury; Riker Danzig; CSG Law
Rimon welcomes a new IP partner in Princeton; CSG Law appoints a new leader for its employment law division; and further developments.
Morris Manning Adds Atlanta Real Estate Partner, Labor Firms Increase California Ties
Henry “Butch” Bailey Jr., a commercial real estate attorney, has joined Morris, Manning & Martin as a partner in Atlanta. Bailey Jr. previously worked as an associate at Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, and he is returning to the company.
Schwartz Sladkus Adds New York Partner, Nossaman Hires Arizona Partner
Greenberg Sladkus Reich Schwartz Nossaman announced that Emily Smith has joined the firm’s pensions, benefits, and investments group; Atlas reported that Andrew Bauer has joined the firm as a partner in its New York office.
Finance Partner Leaves King & Spalding for McDermott, Following 11-Partner Move to Paul Hastings
After ten years, partner in lender-side finance Ellen Snare left King & Spalding to work in the New York office of McDermott Will & Emery.
Littler, Dentons Partner Laterals Among Latest in Canada’s Nonstop Spring Moves Bonanza
Over a dozen attorneys have found new positions in the past few weeks, and three more have lately changed companies.
In house
Skydance Hires Legal Exec as Upstart Shakes Up Hollywood With Paramount Merger
Jean Chi left a prominent position at Spotify to take on the position of president of Skydance’s global business and legal affairs.
JPMorgan Chase’s Top Consumer-Banking Attorney Jumps to SoFi as GC
Rob Lavet, who joined the online bank shortly after its inception in 2011, will hand over the reins of legal authority to Stephen Simcock.
TikTok Parent Hires Hollywood Heavy Hitter as Global GC Amid Showdown With US
As the popular social media app’s future in the US is in doubt, former Warner Bros. General Counsel John Rogovin is assuming legal control of the platform.
Morgan Stanley-Backed Startup Aiming to Disrupt Auto Insurance Hires First GC
Cover Whale Insurance Solutions, which employs innovation and technology to streamline and lower risk in the commercial truck insurance industry, is putting Rachel Dugan in charge of legal affairs.
Pa.-Based Allied Universal Taps New GC With IPO Experience
Steve Jones, Allied Universal’s global chairman and CEO said, “Loretta’s experience leading phenomenal legal teams at publicly traded companies and technology focused organizations perfectly lines up with the future I see for Allied Universal.”
Allied Universal names next legal head as former GC retires
David Buckman, who is retiring from Allied Universal after nearly 20 years with the company, has been replaced as global general counsel by Loretta Cecil, who was hired by the US security and facilities services provider.
Thunes names Ruwan De Soyza General Counsel
Thunes recently declared Ruwan De Soyza as General Counsel to manage all secretarial, legal, and compliance matters as the business expands globally. De Soyza will oversee a team in a variety of practice areas, such as payment regulation, licensing, compliance, M&A, and commercial contracts, under the direction of CEO, Floris de Kort.
Team Moves
Paul Hastings Lands 11-Partner Private Credit Group From King & Spalding
Jennifer Daly, who at the time of her resignation was co-head of King & Spalding’s worldwide finance and restructuring practice, is among the incoming group.
Holland & Knight Hires Team from Loeb & Loeb in Los Angeles, Signaling Finance Team Expansion
Paul Severin, the vice chair of Loeb & Loeb until recently, is one of the three new partners.
IP Leader of Dentons’ Pittsburgh Branch Brings Group to Eckert Seamans
Nolan Cheung, who previously served as U.S. co-chair of Dentons’ IP group said, “a global name for global companies is certainly very important; but when you deal with the IP side, it’s a very unique client-attorney relationship.”
K&L Gates Expands German IP Practice with Four-Person Disputes Team
A skilled group of intellectual property conflicts attorneys have been recruited by K&L Gates. They will be situated in Frankfurt and offer clients comprehensive cross-border legal counsel.
India’s JSA Raids Rival SAM for 20 Lawyers
Leader of SAM Shardul Shroff claims that the defectors have violated the terms of the partnership deed of the company and that leaving equity partners must give at least six months’ notice.
Malaysia’s Asl Hires Three-Partner Ip Team from CLO
With the addition of a five-person IP, sports, and gaming group from nearby rival Christopher & Lee Ong (CLO), led by practice leader Sri Sarguna Raj, Malaysian law firm Adnan Sundra & Low (ASL) have greatly strengthened its intellectual property capabilities.
Sarah-Jane Dobson, a partner in product safety and liability, has joined the London-based Disputes & Investigations office of international law firm Ashurst. Sarah-Jane will expand Ashurst’s product litigation and product risk (safety and regulatory) practice area with the help of a group of colleagues.
Taylor Wessing expands with Corporate Crime & Compliance team led by Charlotte Posthuma
With the addition of Partner Charlotte Posthuma, Associate Leonie Hogenkamp, and Associate Loes Joosten, Taylor Wessing has further enhanced its competence in Corporate Crime & Compliance. Charlotte is in charge of this rapidly expanding practice.
Four tech partners join to expand Simmons’ Digital Business practice
Having previously collaborated, Hayley Davis, Calum Murray, Andrew Joint, and Rich Folsom have all been appointed partners in the firm’s London office, marking a noteworthy development for the practice and its technological offering.
Promotions & Appointments:
Employment Litigation Leader to Replace Mary Beth Hogan as Debevoise Litigation Co-Chair
Andrew Ceresney will be joined by longtime partner Jyotin Hamid in leading the division, which generated $546 million in revenue in the previous year. After 33 years with the company, Hogan is retiring.
People in the News—June 6, 2024—Barley Snyder, McMonagle Perri
Barley Snyder declared that partner Thad M. Gelsinger has been appointed to the board of directors of Berks Catholic High School.
People in the News—June 7, 2024—Panitch Schwarze, Tucker Arensberg
Ava E. Lutz, a lawyer specializing in intellectual property, has been elected to the position of secretary on the board of governors for the Philadelphia Intellectual Property Law Association (PIPLA), a group of lawyers and law student affiliates based in Philadelphia. This announcement was made by Panitch Schwarze Belisario & Nadel.
Willkie Farr Elevates Partner to Latin America Practice Chair
Maria-Leticia Ossa Daza, a Brazilian, steps down to make way for Anna Martini Pereira of Brazil to open a practice in Latin America at Paul Weiss.
Angus McCullogh KC to lead PSNI review into alleged surveillance
The PSNI has assigned London attorney Angus McCullough KC to lead an impartial investigation into the force’s purported use of surveillance against reporters, attorneys, and non-governmental organizations.
Mergers & Alliances:
The transaction is the latest in a series of consolidation moves in the energy sector, coming shortly after two earlier multibillion-dollar mergers this year.
New York Firm Combines With Atlanta Boutique to Create ‘Powerhouse’ Tax Practice
When talking about the 40-lawyer firm, Todd Welty said, “We weren’t shopping the firm, we weren’t hunting for a merger. This was just a natural, organic discussion about how well we worked together”.
Amid Law Firm Merger Frenzy, Former Leaders of Wilmer and Hale Offer Insights
Bill Lee said, “The fact that we brought all these people into the loop in October and it never leaked until we made it public on May 31 said to me that it was going to work.”
Clifford Chance Leads on Brookfield’s $6.1B Acquisition of French Renewable Company
Positions on one of the largest deals in Europe this year have also been secured by Gide and Bredin Prat.
Global Firms Lead on Deals in Kenya, Egypt, and South Africa
U.S. Philip Morris International (PMI) received legal advice from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton and Alliance Law in Egypt on the purchase of an indirect 14.7% minority interest in Eastern Tobacco Company, which is Egypt’s largest cigarette maker, for a sum exceeding $1.2 billion.
Dentons LuatViet Merges with Vietnam Boutique EPLegal
Annie Ngo, managing partner of EPLegal, has also been named head of the combined entity’s energy practice.
Office Openings & Closing:
Brown Rudnick Launches Houston Office, Hires Trial Partner From Boutique
Adam Schiffer, a trial attorney and the founder of Schiffer Hicks Johnson in Houston, has become a partner in Brown Rudnick’s recently established Houston office.
Adding to Salt Lake While Remaining ‘Unique,’ Polsinelli Opens in Park City
Marla Bell, managing partner for the firm’s Salt Lake City office as well as the new one, described Park City as a “destination for high-wealth individuals with second homes or who have chosen to live here rather than Salt Lake.”
The recently established government investigations practice “benefits our clientele. A co-leader of the group named Bill Corrigan said, “It’s a clearer message of our capabilities.”
Akerman Was Sole Florida-Founded Am Law Firm to Significantly Reduce Office Space in 2023
With the exception of Akerman, which stated it has been reducing its size as it accepts hybrid work and consolidates back-office activities, Florida-founded Am Law 100 firms have maintained their footprints.
Al Tamimi establishes region’s first mediation practice
Lead attorneys Christine Maksoud and David Holloway talk about the practice’s future goals.
Birketts announces opening of office in Bristol
Bristol is now home to Birketts, a UK Top 50 law firm with offices throughout southern England. In addition to the company’s offices in London, Sevenoaks, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich, and Norwich, Birketts will open a seventh location in Bristol.
Bird & Bird’s former London arbitration head launches own practice
Nick Peacock, the former head of Bird & Bird’s international arbitration business in London, has established Peacock Arbitration, a solo firm.
Financials:
Amid Growing Battle for Talent, 3 DC and Virginia Firms Increased Their Equity Partner Pay Spreads
In Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, six additional Am Law 200 firms either maintained or reduced similar margins between 2022 and 2023.
Midsize Firms Enjoy Historic Demand for Bankruptcy, Restructuring Work
Lenders and sponsors are growing increasingly impatient with overleveraged, foundering enterprises.
Lewis Brisbois Threatens Legal Action to Claw Back ‘Overdistribution’ to Former Partners
The company allegedly missed the revenue objectives from previous years, which it used to justify earlier draws.
Goodwin Latest Firm to Raise NQ Salaries as Pay War Looms
According to insiders at the firm, the Boston-based firm is increasing its charges to £175,000, up £15,000, to better compete with firms like Kirkland & Ellis, Milbank, and Vinson & Elkins, whose prices are higher than £170,000.
Canadian In-House Counsel Salaries Up 9%, Report Shows
According to a 102-page research published by the Canadian Corporate Counsel Association (CCCA) and The Counsel Network, which is now a part of Caldwell, the national base compensation for in-house counsel in Canada climbed by nearly 9% to CA$196,000 from $180,000 in 2022.
Technology & Innovation:
K&L Gates Joins Orrick in Offering Gen AI Training for Summer Associates
Law firms are hoping an early introduction to generative AI will make next year’s incoming associates more excited about using the technology.
AI Deepfakes: Unauthorized Depictions and Protection of Property Rights to Name, Image and Likeness
The No AI FRAUD Act, which was just introduced, aims to safeguard people’s rights to regulate how their voice and likeness are used against the unauthorized use of AI-generated content. This aims to close the gap created by the disparate state and federal intellectual property and privacy rules and regulations.
AI Boom Has Left Employers With Head-Spinning Governance Challenges
According to FTI Technology Global CEO Sophie Ross, businesses and governments are “grappling with how to set boundaries while staying competitive in the technology transformation race”.
Sirion Acquires Eigen Technologies to Expand Capabilities and Financial Services Footprint
According to Sirion, the agreement will enable it to collect data from more documents than just contracts.
3 Key Things to Know About the New Colorado AI Act
Despite the fact that the Colorado AI Act may be the first of its type, lawyers point out that businesses won’t need to start from scratch in order to ensure compliance.
Ontario Bar Association Launches Novel AI Initiative to Boost Use in Everyday Practice
As the association’s innovator-in-residence, legal tech expert Colin Lachance will oversee a year-long program designed to help lawyers better comprehend and use artificial intelligence.
Josh Tucker, a Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman IP partner in Austin, said that his goal is: “to be able to yell at my computer and make it do what I want.”
Diversity & Inclusion:
The Surge of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bills and How We Can Protect Ourselves
Our community is extremely alarmed by the extraordinary rise in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that has been introduced around the country. Every aspect of our lives is impacted by these bills, including health care, sports, the job, residences, and schools.
11th Circuit Pick Talks Pro Se Cases, Diversity Efforts, Mentorship at Senate Hearing
Judicial nominee Embry Kidd said, “I have conversations with students and potential clerks about clerking and why they haven’t thought about clerking… and one thing that I learned is that for many of them, it’s no surprise, they have a very heavy loan burden”.
Fired for Wanting Less Diversity Efforts? White Employee Sues HP
Dean Wicke,” the complaint alleged, “the statement made by the plaintiff regarding the defendant’s DEI efforts were falsely branded as ‘dogpiling,’ and ‘racist’ by managers in the employ of the defendant, including the plaintiff’s supervisor.
Market Commentary:
Letter From Asia: The Americans Are Leaving China in Droves, but Will It Level the Playing Field?
China’s allure is now much outweighed by the hazards involved in operating a lawful business there. However, no British law firms have left China or shut down any mainland locations in the last 18 months.
Texas Bar Hopes to Get in Line with Nation on Conflict Rule for Attorneys
According to Kinard, the existing restriction has hampered lawyers’ mobility by making it more difficult for them to move companies. It is an especially difficult problem for partners.
The Winding Path Some Litigators Take to Partnership
The Great Recession interrupted the early careers of a few of the litigators from boutiques and mid-size law firms who took part in Law.com’s “How I Made It” series last year.
Linklaters Halts Plans to Withhold Distributions to Departing Partners
The decision is a part of a larger set of adjustments to the way the company rewards departing partners, and it will result in the firm no longer awarding bonuses to partners who leave after more than 20 years of employment.
Is Big Law’s Opulent Space a Match Made In Heaven for Associates and Clients?
Do boomers actually want this kind of working space at their company? Being socially conscious and working for ethical companies is highly valued by Gen Z associates. The company’s ESG profile, pro bono goals, and DEI compliance are probably more significant factors. What about the customers?
Steve Solow, who left Big Law after more than 20 years noted “Clients really want to just pick their lawyers more than they want to pick sometimes the law firm”.
The Rise of Legal Finance in Spain’s Growing Market
The nation’s litigation finance business is growing swiftly thanks to suitable legislation and quick trial durations.
South African Investors and Law Firms on Edge Over ANC Coalition Talks
Investors are concerned that a compromise reached by the parties would result in the nationalization of the South African Reserve Bank and other important organizations, the expropriation of private property, and a departure from the rule of law.
Hiring of Law Firm Associates in Canada Remains Strong but Salaries Not Rising Significantly
Precedent magazine, which has been following hire backs in the Toronto market, states that most significant firms have recruited back more than 70% of their articling students this year, which is on track or better than 2023.
Wall Street firms’ muscle into pro sports deals
In an attempt to overtake well-established competitors that cater to billionaire buyers and sellers, Wall Street law firms are pushing their way into the burgeoning sports deals sector.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Clifford Chance further strengthens Global Antitrust team with hire of Michael Grenfell
As the international legal firm Clifford Chance expands its capabilities in the technology, financial services, consumer goods, and healthcare sectors, it has been announced that Michael Grenfell will join the company as a Partner in its Global Antitrust Group, based in London.
Pillsbury Hires Trade Partner from South Korean Big Six Firm for London Boost
Sungbum Lee, who spent more than ten years working for Yoon & Yang in South Korea, will be headquartered in Pillsbury’s expanding London office, which moved to 100 Bishopsgate recently.
Clifford Chance Gains 2 Laterals in London, UAE
The former executive director of enforcement at the Competition and Markets Authority, Michael Grenfell, is joining Clifford Chance after over eight years at the government body and Lynn Ammar, who first made partner in 2022, joins after over 12 years at Cleary in the UAE.
Seladore Legal taps BonelliErede for international arbitration partner
By adding Laurence Shore to the BonelliErede team as an international arbitration partner, Seladore Legal has greatly expanded their firm’s arbitration capabilities.
EMEA
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH), a leading corporate and commercial law firm, announced the appointment of Chambers rated Restructuring and Insolvency lawyer, Nastascha Harduth as Head of their Business Rescue, Restructuring & Insolvency sector. Nastascha’s interest lies in complex restructuring and insolvency mandates, as well as corporate and commercial dispute resolution, litigation, and debt recovery.
Africa Moves: CDH Taps Rival for Insolvency & Restructuring Head; CMS Hires From Covington
Attorney and arbitrator Abdel Aziz Hassouba has advised various Egyptian and non-Egyptian businesses on corporate and regulatory concerns, as well as complex and high-value conflicts, for more than forty years.
Kirkland & Ellis adds restructuring muscle in Riyadh with lawyer relocation from London
Leading the financial restructuring and capital solutions practice is Husni Almousli, who relocated across offices.
CMS taps Clyde & Co for Saudi corporate head
Rizwan Osman is joining the firm’s Riyadh office from Clyde & Co, where he spent over 17 years.
Al Tamimi adds two UAE partners, including ex-Eversheds Dubai MP
Henry Storrar has joined the firm’s Abu Dhabi office as a corporate partner, and Paul Taylor has joined the Dubai office as a partner and regional head of arbitration.
APAC
SG: Amazon Energy Counsel returns to Bih Li & Lee
Marina Chua, an energy specialist, has rejoined the Singaporean boutique law firm Bih Li & Lee as a partner. Previously, she worked as corporate counsel in the energy section of Amazon Web Services.
Indonesia’s FKNK adds Cross-Border M&A Partner
With the appointment of partner Gladi Febri Argo, who was previously the managing partner at the Indonesian boutique WilberForce Argo, a company he co-founded in 2012, Indonesia’s FKNK Law Firm has strengthened its cross-border investment offering.
Malaysia’s RDS Grows Disputes Offering with Partner Duo
The Malaysian legal firm Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership (RDS) has expanded its partnership ranks by appointing Vinayak Sri Ram to its disputes practice and Steven Perian to lead its economic crimes, fraud, and anti-money laundering practice.
Malaysia’s Lee Hishammuddin Launches White-Collar Practice with New Hire
At a time when white-collar employment in Southeast Asia is still on the increase, partner Tiara Katrina Fuad of the Malaysian law firm Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill has established a white-collar crime practice.
The Americas
Former GE Legal Chief to Join Paul Weiss
Working with Scott Barshay, the head of the company’s Corporate Department, was cited by Michael Holston as one of Paul Weiss’s main attractions. According to Holston, “Scott is the best M&A lawyer in the world.”
Baker McKenzie’s Transactional Hiring Spree Continues With O’Melveny M&A Head
Tobias Knapp spoke about how his time at O’Melveny during the firm’s merger negotiations with a “major U.K. Magic Circle firm” influenced his desire to work for a company that had the global reach of Baker McKenzie.
Sidley Hires Partner in Houston Who Led Akin’s US Oil and Gas Practice
Stephen Boone Jr., formerly of Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, has joined Sidley Austin as a partner in the energy, transportation, and infrastructure division.
Flower-Delivery Service FTD Hires Lawyer With Eclectic Background as GC
Julian Swearengin, an Illinois native who played football for the Michigan Wolverines, earned an MBA from Harvard, and most recently served as general counsel of The Drone Racing League, has taken over as the company’s legal director.
Blackstone Investment Director Joins Simpson Thacher
Christopher Evans was a managing director in Blackstone’s GP Stakes group, where he oversaw investments in minority stakes and provided business strategy advice to portfolio general partners.
Cooley Fortifies White-Collar Practice in Palo Alto With Elizabeth Holmes Prosecutor
For almost ten years, John Bostic worked as a federal prosecutor in Northern California, where he looked into and prosecuted cases involving Holmes and her co-leader of Theranos, Ramesh Balwani.
People in the News—May 29, 2024—Knox, Stradley Ronon
Brian M. Seelinger, who recently joined Knox Law, will concentrate his practice on business and tax, public finance, bonds, and employee benefits.
Stinson Welcomes M&A Partner to Dallas Office
John Willding has been welcomed to Stinson’s Dallas office. Willding is becoming a partner in the firm’s Corporate Finance Practice Group.
Intensifying Regulations Spur Greenberg Traurig to Eye Labor and Employment Expansion in Florida
After working for Jackson Lewis as the litigation manager of the Orlando office, Alicia Chiu, is joining the company.
People in the News—May 30, 2024—Barley Snyder
Kyle M. Kelly, an attorney, has joined Barley Snyder’s Lancaster office.
Alston & Bird Adds Patent Litigator to Los Angeles Office
The second partner to join the firm in Los Angeles this year is Erik Carlson, who comes from Baker & Hostetler, he will be working in the IP litigation department.
Chelsea Darnell is now a partner in Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison’s M&A practice. She previously worked for Kirkland & Ellis as a partner.
Nixon Peabody adds fund formation partner to East Coast Corporate practice
Ed Winters has become a partner in the corporate practice of the multinational legal firm. He joins the Private Equity & Investment Funds team at the company’s New York City headquarters.
Miller Nash received Nick Hesterberg as special counsel in the firm’s construction and insurance recovery team; Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone publicised that intellectual property attorney Gregory Lewis is joining the firm’s Grand Rapids, Michigan, office as a principal.
DLA Piper Hires Ex-SFO Division Head to Washington DC Office
Judy Krieg, a former head of the SFO’s division dedicated to fraud, bribery, and corruption, has joined DLA as a partner in the organization’s government enforcement and white collar crime practices. She previously worked at Fieldfisher for three years.
In house
Wendy’s Taps CLO to Lead Fast-Food Giant’s 33-Nation International Operations
For seventeen years, E.J. Wunsch worked with Procter & Gamble, where he acquired extensive global expertise. He was located in Singapore for four years, where he managed trademark and patent concerns throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Prologis’ 30-Year Legal Chief to Exit After Helping Build $100B Powerhouse
Since Edward Nekritz joined the company in 1995 as its first in-house attorney, the industrial real estate developer’s market value has increased by more than 20 times.
E-Discovery Services Company Repario Taps Former UnitedLex VP as New GC
Kelly’s appointment was described as a “strategic move” by Repario CEO Dave Deppe.
Krispy Kreme Hires CLO With Sweet-Treat Experience
Atiba Adams, a former executive in legal positions at Pfizer, Mars, and Bausch + Lomb, will take over as the doughnut vendor’s legal director.
Nadine Menendez Finds New Counsel as Ex-Attorneys Withdraw Over Conflict
Barry Coburn, a veteran criminal defence lawyer of Coburn, Greenbaum & Eisenstein, a firm with offices in New York and Washington, D.C., is Menendez’s new attorney.
Elon Musk’s AI start-up hires former Airbus innovation centre GC as first legal chief
Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence business xAI has appointed Robert Keele as its first legal head to help steer the company’s expansion efforts.
Paul Weiss adds former General Electric legal chief
Michael Holston has joined after collaborating with Paul Weiss on GE’s division into distinct businesses.
Team Moves
Kirkland Group, Seeking Brand Recognition in ‘Silicon Slope,’ Moves to Wilson Sonsini
New partner Jess Krannich, who previously helped launch Kirkland’s presence in the city said “For Utah’s economy and the kinds of companies that are becoming really successful here, Wilson probably has the strongest legal brand of any law firm”.
Taft Stettinius & Hollister Continues Expansion With 6 Lawyers From Ice Miller
Taft chair and managing partner Robert Hicks said, “We’re trying to become one of the dominant firms in the middle market in the United States, and today we’re well on our way.”
Miller Thomson Grows by 5, Including 3 From Norton Rose in Vancouver
Miller Thomson’s charitable and nonprofit organizations will include associate Daniel Szeto, partners Michael Blatchford and Bryan Millman, and Vancouver partner Michael Blatchford. Furthermore, real estate attorneys Michael Clifton and Mark Kok are closing their boutique practice and joining the firm’s condominium and strata department, in the expanding Ontario cities of Waterloo and London.
DLA Piper Recruits 3-Person Compliance Team in Chile
Along with her companions Jaime Viveros and Francisca Macchiavello, partner Francisca Franzani joins from Albagli Zaliasnik, where she held the position of director of compliance.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—May 28, 2024—Margolis Edelstein, K&L Gates
Elsbeth Koefer was promoted to partner in the firm’s casualty litigation practice, according to Margolis Edelstein.
Borden Ladner Gervais Appoints First Canadian Law Firm Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer
Lisa Chamandy, who has prior experience as the firm’s chief knowledge and innovation officer, will lead the firm’s AI strategy.
Taylor Wessing UK Managing Partner Re-Elected For Third Term
The third term of Shane Gleghorn begins in October 2024 and ends in October 2027.
McCann FitzGerald LLP announces 11 new partners
With the appointment of 11 new partners, effective June 1st, McCann FitzGerald LLP announced that this year’s cohort is their largest-ever number of partner promotions, increasing the firm’s overall partner count to 88.
Appointments at Holmes O’Malley Sexton
Holmes O’Malley Sexton LLP has announced a number of promotions and appointments including Marguerite Seymour who has been made counsel within their commercial litigation department.
Mergers & Alliances:
‘No Better Than a Racket’—Seventh Circuit Critical of Mootness Fees for Merger Disclosures
Judge Frank Easterbrook wrote the opinion for a two-judge panel that rejected these fee agreements and gave shareholders and federal courts the authority to examine these fees going forward because he was fed up with the “federal practice” of plaintiff’s attorneys demanding fees in disclosure cases without providing stockholders with any real benefit.
New vLex Partnership Allows iManage to Integrate with Vincent AI, Docket Alarm
With the first two announced integrations, users may automatically add docket information to iManage via vLex Docket Alarm and access information that has been curated in iManage Insight+ via the vLex Vincent AI platform.
ASU Law, Diné College Launch Joint Legal Education Program With Navajo Nation
In a statement, ASU Law Dean Stacy Leeds said, “This marks a milestone in reimagining legal education.”
American Arbitration Association Acquires ODR.com Parent Company, Planning AI-Powered Expansion
Through the acquisition, the parent company of ODR.com will have access to the AAA’s resources to develop more sophisticated AI-powered ADR solutions and to quickly grow the AAA’s service and geographic reach.
Wachtell, Kirkland Advising on Pending $22.5B Texas Energy Acquisition
ConocoPhillips, which turned to Kirkland & Ellis, is being represented by Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz in its impending acquisition of Marathon Oil Corp.
KKR Fund Acquires Majority Stake in CLM Provider Agiloft
As part of the agreement, JMI Equity, a growth equity firm that specializes in funding software firms, will become a new investor in the business, and FTV Capital will increase its existing position in it.
Ashurst advises J.P. Morgan Cazenove on £3.5 billion takeover of Royal Mail owner
Ashurst, a global legal practice, is providing J.P. Morgan Cazenove with advice regarding EP UK Bidco Limited’s (Bidco) acquisition of International Distributions Services plc (IDS). The recently established Bidco is indirectly owned by J&T Capital Partners, a.s. and EP Corporate Group, a.s. (J&T). J.P. Morgan Cazenove serves as EP, J&T, and Bidco’s financial advisor.
India’s Luthra and Luthra Merges with Litigation Chambers Aishwarya AnanthKumar
After merging with Aishwarya Ananth Kumar and Partners (AAK Partners), a litigation chamber located in Bengaluru, Luthra and Luthra Law Offices now has four more litigators in its roster.
3 Firms Lead as Coventry Building Society Acquires Co-operative Bank
Paul Hastings, Freshfields and Addleshaw Goddard are advising on the Coventry Building Society’s £780 million acquisition of the Co-operative Bank, this to many is a sign that UK M&A is making a resurgence.
3 US Firms Score Roles as Energy Capital Partners Backs $2.6B Atlantica Acquisition
Latham & Watkins, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom and Weil Gotshal & Manges are advising on the $2.6 billion acquisition of the London-headquartered infrastructure company Atlantica by a U.S. private equity consortium headed by Energy Capital Partners.
US Duo Lead on Merck’s $3B Acquisition of UK Eye Drug Company
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher and Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom have taken on lead roles in New Jersey-headquartered pharmaceutical group Merck & Co’s $3 billion acquisition of Eyebiotech, an ophthalmology-focused drug development company in the U.K.
Kirkland, N&A, NO&T, MHM Advise On $835 Mln Carlyle Offer for KFC Japan
Crispy Holdings, a structure that is fully owned by Carlyle Group, is being advised by Kirkland & Ellis and Nishimura & Asahi regarding a 135 billion yen ($863 million) tender offer for shares of Tokyo-listed KFC Holdings Japan.
Office Openings & Closing:
Eyeing Boston Launch, Wiggin and Dana Recruits Corporate Partner From Am Law 200 Firm
Wiggin will employ three Boston-based attorneys when the company launches, one of whom is a former principal of Choate Hall & Stewart.
Cozen O’Connor, Blank Rome Expand in Boston
Am Law 100 heavyweights Blank Rome and Cozen O’Connor both announced attorney additions with the intention of strengthening their positions in the Boston area. These hires demonstrate how Philadelphia-founded firms are viewing the city as a growth potential.
Going to Brick and Mortar, Husch Blackwell Announces Nashville Opening
At times clients prefer in-person collaboration, CEO Jamie Lawless stated: “It’s an option our clients appreciate having when it makes sense to be together in that capacity.”
National Law Firms Keep Shipping Up to Boston, Eyeing Well-Connected Local Dealmakers
Firms such as Covington & Burling, Blank Rome and Paul Hastings are heading in, and native firms like Choate, Hall & Stewart, Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo and Ropes & Gray are targets.
Greenberg Traurig Khalid Al-Thebity Joins International Law Firms in Saudi Arabia
Greenberg Traurig Khalid Al-Thebity has officially been licensed as a Regional Headquarters Programme (RHQ) company in Saudi Arabia, they are the fourth international firm to set up in the kingdom under the programme.
Ex-Baker McKenzie UAE Partner Firm Launches in Russia
After its founder partner, Habib Al Mulla, became involved in an online homophobic scandal, the firm was dropped by Baker McKenzie. Six months after its debut in Istanbul, it opens its second office.
Australia’s Gilbert + Tobin Advises in $1.5 Billion Mexican Food IPO
Guzman y Gomez (GYG), a Mexican restaurant business, is receiving legal advice from Australian corporate law firm Gilbert + Tobin about its proposed $1.5 billion IPO.
Financials:
Freeman Mathis & Gary Saw Revenue, Profits Rise Alongside Head Count in 2023
Managing Partner Ben Mathis Jr said, “Gross revenue increases don’t tell me anything other than they reflect that we’re bigger than we were last year”.
‘Slightly alarming’ – Clifford Chance, Linklaters, A&O Shearman match Freshfields’ NQ pay hike
Joining Linklaters this week, Clifford Chance and A&O Shearman matched Freshfields’ NQ pay increase from £125,000 to £150,000, making Slaughter and May the only Magic Circle firm that is still paying the lower amount.
Largest Law Firms Increase Partner Pay Spread, as Comp Models Hit ‘Inflection Point’
The Am Law 100 increased its average equity partner pay spread from 9.8-to-1 in 2022 to 10.3-to-1 in 2023, this is based on a sample of firms’ data.
Brazil’s Mattos Filho Posts Steady Revenue in 2023
They are one of the few full-service legal practices in Latin America to release financial information, the full-service company reported that its total income increased marginally to 1.4 billion reals ($269 million) from 1.36 billion reals the previous year.
Axiom Ince collapse fuels threefold hike in compensation fund levy
According to the plans for 2024–2050, law firms would contribute £2,220 to the fund, the profession’s insurer of last resort, a 233% increase from £660, and individual solicitors’ payments would grow by 200% from £30 to £90. No matter their size, all businesses pay the same amount.
Pinsent Masons joins junior salary war, ups NQ pay to £97k
London NQs were previously paid £92k by the company, which means they are eligible for a 5% raise. The new fee puts the company ahead of several competitors, including Bird & Bird, Eversheds Sutherland, Addleshaw Goddard, HFW, and Fieldfisher, who are giving out £95k, according to data from Legal Cheek.
Technology & Innovation:
A&O Shearman’s Fuse Incubator Announces 8th Cohort of Startups
This year’s Fuse cohort includes numerous blockchain-based startups in addition to legal tech startups.
Alvarez & Marsal Unveils New AI-Powered Tool for Lawyers and Investigators
The multinational professional services company claims that its Chat View solution would lighten the burden on attorneys and investigators who must sift through voluminous chat communications in order to comply with regulatory standards.
Thomson Reuters Unveils CoCounsel Drafting, Linked to Practical Law for Transactional Work
The transactional tool, which is now in limited beta, should become freely available in July. Later in the year, CoCounsel Drafting for litigation will be made available.
AI Is Our Friend: Using Advancements in Technology Ethically and Responsibly
Technology is here to stay and will continue to play an ever-larger role in the legal profession. However, it is crucial that lawyers understand how to responsibly embrace and use both current and emerging technologies without compromising their ethical and professional obligations.
SEC Ordered to Pay New York and Am Law 100 Firms $1.2M in Attorney, Receivership Fees
Two attorneys of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission resigned from their positions as a result of the litigation’s aftermath.
AI’s Threat to Innovation, Ideas Requires Strong Antitrust Oversight, Says DOJ’s Kanter
Assistant U.S. Attorney General Jonathan Kanter said, “Effective antitrust enforcement often coincides with major industrial and technological change.”
Gartner Predicts Legal Tech Market Will Hit $50 Billion by 2027. Is That Realistic?
According to a recent Gartner estimate, there will be a sharp increase in legal tech spending in the coming years due to generative AI. However, experts doubt that technology can expand the industry that quickly and that widely.
AI Startups Rely on Tech Giants Even as They Fear Their Dominance, Complicating Antitrust Debate
Blanche Savary de Beauregard, general counsel at the AI startup Mistral said, “We need to partner with hyper-scalers for computing, for distribution, for almost everything. And if we cannot do that, there is a risk that we just do not exist”.
Alvarez & Marsal Unveils New AI-Powered Tool for Lawyers and Investigators
The multinational professional services company claims that its ChatView solution would lighten the burden of attorneys and investigators who must sift through voluminous chat communications in order to comply with regulatory standards.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Morris Nichols Attorney Speaks at Delaware Diversity Job Fair
Miranda Gilbert, an associate at Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell, spoke at a virtual conversation on the advantages of a career in Delaware on May 23 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The event was organized by the Delaware Diversity Job Fair (DDJF).
Lambda Legal Announces Kell Olson as the F. Curt Kirschner Strategist for LGBTQ+ Seniors
The Jones Day Foundation has awarded Kell Olson a $1 million grant to serve as the F. Curt Kirschner Strategist for LGBTQ+ Seniors, a role that focuses on issues affecting older LGBTQ+ persons.
Market Commentary:
The case involved intricate and costly litigation that was successfully tried to verdict before Vice Chancellor Laster. The Delaware Supreme Court expeditiously heard arguments and rendered an affirmative decision in relation to the case.
Navigating the Global Employment Landscape: Strategies for In-House Legal Teams
Managing labour and employment issues across several jurisdictions poses a special set of challenges for businesses in an era of international corporate operations. The article can address the nuances of the world’s labour and employment laws and offer guidance to internal legal departments that are handling these challenges.
Finding a Firm that Really Is Easy to Do Business With
There exist legal businesses that go beyond the typical catchphrases and genuinely concentrate on your department’s and company’s requirements; however, how do you locate and keep these firms that are Easy to Do Business With (#ETDBW)?
Can Therapy Help My Law Practice?
Jennifer Kupferman discusses how therapy, with a focus on somatic therapy and EDMR, can assist lawyers bolster their confidence and develop their talents in this piece.
Kirkland Grows in Saudi Arabia Along With Client Demand and Maturing Market
The firm’s Riyadh office has about 13 lawyers, but given the kingdom’s increasing significance, a larger cohort is required.
Making Partner Isn’t What it Used to Be. So What are Young Lawyers in Asia Made Of?
The activities that generate actual income and profits, like closing deals and acquiring new clients, are still crucial. Aspiring partners now need to demonstrate that they are capable of much more.
South Africa’s Move Toward Liberalized Electricity Market Expected to Create Work for Law Firms
The Electricity Regulations Amendment Bill in South Africa modernizes the country’s electricity supply sector and brings the country one step closer to a liberalized electrical market. But is it strong enough to address the main problems?
What Is Driving the Demand for Competition Specialists in Africa?
There are now active competition regulators in Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and other key African cities. Additionally, law firms are creating stand-alone competition practices that were non-existent ten years ago due to client demand for legal assistance.
Alternative Fee Arrangements Gaining Popularity in Australia Amid Economic Downturn
According to a survey by legal software company Litera, due to the challenging economic conditions, more than half of Australia’s law firms have modified their pricing models. An increasing number of alternative price arrangements are being used instead of billable hours. Approximately half of the firms have looked for ways to reduce expenses, 46% have raised their fees, and 88% use alternative fee arrangements for at least half of their work.
Kirkland Grows in Saudi Arabia Along With Client Demand and Maturing Market
The private equity specialized firm’s Riyadh branch is described as having about 13 lawyers, but Kamran S. Bajwa indicated that a larger cohort is required due to the kingdom’s expanding prominence. He continued by saying that although the company does not currently have plans to create operations in other Gulf Cooperation Council countries, such as Abu Dhabi, the proper possibilities would be given careful thought.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Mishcon de Reya’s international arbitration head to join Littleton Chambers in London
Louis Flannery KC, Head of international arbitration at Mishcon de Reya, is scheduled to join Littleton Chambers in London. He will be admitted to the bar and work as a counsel in addition to serving as an arbitrator.
Michaela Herron to head life sciences at Mason Hayes & Curran
Ms Herron has extensive knowledge of the regulatory landscape that exists at the nexus of technology and life sciences, and she adeptly navigates the complexities of the EU regulatory framework for her clients.
New Derry hire at Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors
David McConaghie has been appointed as a solicitor in the Derry office of Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors, an Ireland-wide legal practice.
EMEA
White & Case builds in Germany with hire of capital markets partner duo from Latham
Oliver Seiler and David Rath join US firm in Frankfurt despite reports Latham restructuring partner duo are moving to Willkie Farr & Gallagher.
APAC
Malaysia’s Lee Hishammuddin launches white-collar practice with new hire
At a time when white-collar employment in Southeast Asia is still on the increase, partner Tiara Katrina Fuad of the Malaysian law firm Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill has established a white-collar crime practice.
HK: Simmons hires I-Mab Biopharma’s CLO
Richard Cheng Li has joined the UK law firm Simmons & Simmons as a partner and the leader of its healthcare and life sciences group in Hong Kong. Li most recently served as I-Mab Biopharma’s chief legal officer.
Yulchon adds Kim & Chang IP, antitrust lawyer
With the appointment of antitrust and intellectual property specialist Dave Koo, South Korean Big Six firm Yulchon has continued its ambitious expansion. Koo will be the business’s tenth partner hire by 2024. Koo leaves Kim & Chang, where he held the position of senior foreign attorney.
Indonesia’s FKNK adds cross-border M&A partner
With the appointment of partner Gladi Febri Argo, who was previously the managing partner at the Indonesian boutique WilberForce Argo, a firm he co-founded in 2012, Indonesia’s FKNK Law Firm has strengthened its cross-border investment offering.
HK: Robertsons hires corporate finance partner from RPC
Janney Chong, a corporate finance specialist from RPC, has joined the Hong Kong law firm Robertsons as a partner.
The Americas
Squire Hires Former Polsinelli Latin America Leader
Emil Infante and his ultra-high-net-worth clientele joined Squire Patton Boggs last week.
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney Picks Up White and Williams Litigation Co-Chair
Vincent Barbera is an expert in noncompete agreements.
Latham and Arnold & Porter Build Health Care Regulatory Teams
Eva Temkin moved to Arnold & Porter because of a disagreement at Paul Hastings, meanwhile Latham has attracted two partners from Skadden.
Sheppard Mullin Continues Chicago Expansion With Mayer Brown Partner
Tom Panoff, a partner at Mayer Brown, specializes in commercial and antitrust litigation. He expressed that his clients and practice will benefit from the shift to Sheppard Mullin.
Lawyer Known for Talc Verdicts Moves to Product Liability Boutique
In 2016 and 2017, Danielle Ward Mason was recognized for winning verdicts against Johnson & Johnson totalling over $1 billion.
Baker & Hostetler Hires Baker Botts Partner to Lead New Catastrophic Accident Response Team
Over two decades of experience in assisting clients in responding to catastrophic events will be used as Greg Dillard leads the team of approximately thirty lawyers spread across many offices.
On the Move: Holland & Knight Names New Office Leader, Adds In-House Lawyer
In the meantime, other Southeast legal firms add labour, real estate, and regulatory attorneys while Fox Rothschild encourages attorneys in Atlanta and the Carolinas to become partners.
People in the News—May 22, 2024—Malamut, Tucker Arensberg
Attorney Stephanie Caloiaro has joined the government group at Malamut Law, which has its headquarters in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
Two Akin Partners Exit to Launch Separate Lobbying Shops
Their client lists show how even though large companies like Akin and Brownstein generate the most annual money from lobbying, small firm lobbying shops can start up or prosper.
People in the News—May 23, 2024—Hamburg Rubin, Montgomery McCracken
Celso L. Leite Jr. has joined Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin’s real estate and land use department, the company stated.
Milbank’s Top Securitization Lawyer to Join Kirkland & Ellis
Michael Urschel joined Milbank in April of last year as a member of a group of ten attorneys from King & Spalding.
People in the News—May 24, 2024—Goldberg Segalla
Scott T. Earle has joined Goldberg Segalla’s Philadelphia-based construction litigation and counsel department.
Midsize Moves: Seltzer Caplan Hires 2 Attorneys, Hall Render Adds Former Appeals Court Legal Adviser
Two new solicitors have joined Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek: Ora Lupear and Austin Peterson; also, Hall, Render, Killian, Heath & Lyman has announced the addition of Liza Sawyer to the company in its Washington, D.C. office.
Osler Lands Prominent Canadian Privacy Law Partners From Borden Ladner Gervais
Along with coworker Francois Joli-Coeur, Eloise Gratton moves on and takes on the role of co-chair of Osler’s practice group dedicated to privacy and data management.
It’s a Spring Fever of Lateral Partner Moves at Big Canadian Firms
Just last week, at least eight partners from various cities around the nation joined new firms.
In house
Paychex CLO to Retire After Quarter-Century With Company
As corporate counsel, Stephanie Schaeffer joined the payroll services company. She rose to the position of chief legal officer two years later and head of legal services four years after.
Xcel Energy Hires Legal Chief as Lawsuits Over Texas Wildfire Pile Up
The Minneapolis-based utility commented in March that its facilities “appeared to have been involved” in igniting the largest wildfire in Texas history.
Former Quantum, SunPower Legal Chief Takes Top Lawyer Job at Infinera
The producer of network equipment has appointed Regan MacPherson as its chief legal officer.
Nextdoor Names New Legal Chief, as C-Suite Changes Continue
Following John Orta’s resignation as chief legal officer and head of corporate development earlier this month, Sophia Contreras is taking over as general counsel.
Jersey Mike’s Taps Up-and-Comer as General Counsel, as Sale Talk Swirls
The deputy general counsel of the fastest-growing sandwich chain in the country has been promoted to vice president and general counsel.
High-Ranking EDNY Prosecutor Nicole Boeckmann Joins Bracewell as Partner
Boeckmann rejoins Bracewell partners Seth DuCharme and Roslynn Mauskopf, as well as other EDNY coworkers.
Owner of Glenfiddich Selects New General Counsel from FTSE 100 Company
It will be the company’s current GC’s retirement, following three years in the position.
US superyacht services business MarineMax appoints general counsel
Manny Alvare, who had previously served as head of the company’s legal department, was elevated to general counsel by recreational boat and yacht supplier MarineMax.
Scotch-maker William Grant hires Kingfisher deputy GC to head legal team
William Grant & Sons, the makers of Glenfiddich Scotch whisky, has named Isabelle Meyer group general counsel, succeeding Catriona Macritchie, who is retiring.
Team Moves
Paul Hastings Loses Five-Strong Team, Led by China Co-Head, to Pillsbury
Former co-chair of Paul Hastings’ Shanghai and Beijing offices, Jia Yan is an experienced partner.
EY Law Team Shifts to Top 50 UK Firm Browne Jacobson Amid Redundancy Warnings
Five members of EY’s technology and commercial law team have joined Browne Jacobson, one of the top 50 UK law firms, as of right now. The group has moved to a new office in London.
Latham set for double blow as German teams exit for US rivals
A two-partner restructuring team is departing to join Willkie, while another two-partner team is joining White & Case to bolster the latter’s practice in equity capital markets.
On the Move and After Hours: Riker Danzig; Sills Cummis; Archer; Capehart Scatchard
Archer & Greiner promotes two partners, Riker Danzig adds three attorneys, and other changes.
Range of Firms Hire to Corporate, Tax and Banking Teams in Spain
Baker Hostetler, Lewis Brisbois, and Holland & Knight are a few of the large companies in the city experiencing tremendous expansion.
Boies Schiller Flexner adds IP litigation trio from Shook Hardy in DC
After working together for over ten years, Ryan Dykal, Jordan Bergsten, and Mark Schafer have a wealth of trial expertise resolving IP disputes in the computer industry for both plaintiffs and defendants.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—May 20, 2024—Maiello Brungo, Margolis Edelstein
General counsel for the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has been named as Steven P. Engel by Maiello Brungo & Maiello, a legal company that specializes in construction law and related disputes.
Brazil’s Demarest Elects New Managing Partner for 2-Year Term
In the last eight months, the full-service firm—which is among the biggest in Latin America—has added more than a dozen partners to support expansion into private equity and other sectors.
Professor Roja Fazaeli named deputy chair of Front-Line Defenders
Professor Roja Fazaeli of the University of Galway has been named deputy chair of Front-Line Defenders, an international human rights organisation.
Whitney Moore’s Emma Richmond appointed to Meritas board
Emma Richmond, a co-managing partner at Whitney Moore, was named to the Meritas board of directors, which is an international network of independent law firms.
Mergers & Alliances:
Deal Watch: Big Week in Deals as Creative Dealmaking Merges With More Activity
Ben Beerle, a corporate partner with Cooley who handles mergers and acquisitions noted that “Each of our clients is getting more inbound phone calls from firms looking to work with them than they did three or four years ago”.
Investors are being represented by Withers, Reynolds Porter, Quinn Emanuel, Pallas Partners, and Clyde & Co. about their claims over the write-down of Credit Suisse’s AT1 bond.
Freshfields, Kirkland Act as Warburg Pincus and Temasek Snap Up UK Insurance Group for £1B
Newly established law firms Bruckhaus Deringer, Kirkland & Ellis, and Eversheds Sutherland have secured positions in the acquisition of the UK insurance provider Specialist Risk Group by private equity firms Temasek and Warburg Pincus for a sum over £1 billion.
Major Law Firms Advising BHP and Anglo American on $49B Takeover
BHP of Australia wants to be the biggest copper miner in the world.
Global law firms advise Mubadala On Completion of Fortress Acquisition
After the deal, the management of Fortress has a 32% equity stake and may choose the majority of the board’s members.
Spain’s Garrigues and Microsoft Form Alliance to Drive AI Innovation
The Spanish company is going to combine Microsoft’s Copilot and Azure with its own generative artificial intelligence technology.
Office Openings & Closing:
Eversheds Sutherland to close Berlin office
With the closure of its ten-year-old Berlin office, Eversheds Sutherland will now only have four offices throughout Germany.
Law Firm Competitors Grow Their Atlanta Offices But King & Spalding, Alston Remain Dominant
Baker Hostetler, Lewis Brisbois, and Holland & Knight are a few of the large companies in the city experiencing tremendous expansion.
Freshfields Converts Some London Collaborative Areas Into Office Space
Amid the discussion about flexible and hybrid work arrangements, companies are still trying to find a way to combine open-plan and cellular work.
Hong Kong’s OLN launches elder law practice
Hong Kong law firm Oldham, Li & Nie has launched an elder law practice group after hiring Helena Hu as a consultant to co-head it. It is believed to be the first Hong Kong law firm to offer such a practice.
Singapore’s Big Four Allen & Gledhill Launches Outfit in Indonesia
AGI Legal is being led by Allen & Gledhill partner Aris Budi Prasetiyo, as well as three former partners at Indonesian firm Ali Budiardjo, Nugroho, Reksodiputro.
Midmarket Roundup: Northeast Firms Seize Opportunities in Florida and California
Following an appellate victory, lawyers defending a U.K. tailor couldn’t resist using sewing-related wordplay; a Shipman & Goodwin partner will moderate Yale’s innovation summit; and Sills Cummis & Gross joins a long list of Northeast firms opening in Florida.
Financials:
Big Stock Award Propels Dell GC onto Company’s Highest-Paid List
Despite joining the company in 1999, Richard Rothberg has served as its head of legal affairs since 2013.
Once ‘Unheard Of,’ $20M Partner Pay Becomes Standard to Meet at Davis Polk, Simpson Thacher
Industry expert Peter Zeughauser “The market is the reality, and you have to live in that reality. You can’t have your head in the sand”.
Focusing on Expense Management, Katten Grew Revenue by 5.2%, PEP by 9.2% in 2023
According to CEO Noah Heller, robust demand in areas such as private wealth, structured finance, bankruptcy and restructuring, private credit, and litigation in the second part of the year also contributed to revenue growth.
Southeast Law Firms Positioned for Revenue Growth, but Rising Expenses Drag Down Profits
According to Citi, first-quarter expenses in the Southeast increased more quickly than those in the sector, but demand growth was also present.
Largest Law Firms Increase Partner Pay Spread, as Comp Models Hit ‘Inflection Point’
Based on a sample of companies’ data, the Am Law 100 increased its average equity partner pay spread from 9.8-to-1 in 2022 to 10.3-to-1 in 2023.
Technology & Innovation:
Every legal business looking to completely abandon on-premises IT infrastructure ought to think about utilizing Microsoft 365 and its ancillary services to become serverless.
Corporate Criminal Liability for Artificial Intelligence
It is yet unclear how criminal law enforcement will be able to monitor inappropriate usage of artificial intelligence. When AI-driven decision-making results in legal infractions instead of deliberate human activities, that task will become very difficult.
Gavel Incorporates With GPT-4o, Seeing Major Benefits
According to Dorna Moini, the creator and CEO of Gavel, the new OpenAI model reduced costs in half and improved accuracy by 25% over the GPT-4.
Evisort and NetDocuments Become Latest in Legal Tech to Integrate With Microsoft Copilot
The connections are intended to enable more smoother interactions between the legal tech platforms and applications within Microsoft’s ecosystem. They were revealed during the week of the “Microsoft Build” developer conference.
Tracking Generative AI: How Evolving AI Models Are Impacting Legal
An ongoing collection of the ways that generative AI tools—from GPT technologies to art creation tools and beyond—are continuing to influence the legal landscape.
Dentons Wins Role Advising UK Government on AI
The directive coincides with the introduction of new EU regulations that lay out a thorough set of guidelines for artificial intelligence.
Travers Smith AI Team Breaks Away as Firm Creates Independent Business
The company, which has seen a decline in earnings, is presently Jylo’s only investor and will be the service’s first payer.
Lawyers with AI Skills Can Enjoy 49% Wage Premium, Research Shows
A report by PwC highlights those sectors with highest AI penetration ‘are seeing almost fivefold greater labour productivity growth’.
Diversity & Inclusion:
ELEC Names New Executive Director, First Woman to Lead Watchdog Agency
ELEC Chair Tom Prol said, “With executive director Haines at the helm, New Jersey voters can be confident that ELEC will continue to fulfil its transparency mandate and will vigorously monitor and enforce campaign financing laws with an eye toward protecting and lifting up vulnerable and historically disenfranchised communities”.
Partner at Canadian Firm Resigns Amid Fury Over ‘Deeply Disturbing’ Sexist Email
After his misogynistic and anti-trans email became viral, Rob Rakochey left his Calgary firm.
Market Commentary:
‘Mission Critical’: Big Law Firms Prioritize Right C-Suite Talent
In recent months, numerous C-suite positions have been filled due to high demand for suitable talent within firms’ business ranks.
GC Searches Veer Away From Internal Hires, Upending In-House Promotion Tracks
According to a survey by executive search company Russell Reynolds Associates, “the step up for internal candidates from deputy to GC is a much bigger gap to bridge” because being a general counsel today demands a far wider variety of competencies.
Swelling Workloads Taking Toll on In-House Lawyers’ Mental Health
Former in-house lawyer Shai Mehani, who is also co-founder of the networking group In-house Connect said “The more camaraderie that’s on the team, the less stress, the less burnout and the higher the retention rates”.
Are Law Firms Headed for an Era of Rapid Staff Turnover?
A recent report concluded “Whether it’s due to redundancies, retirement or switching firms, support staff turnover seems to be fixed at a high rate for the foreseeable future,”.
Big Law Seeks to Maintain M&A Momentum With Lateral Market Maneuvers
In the past week, firms including Paul Weiss, Sullivan & Cromwell, Akin, K&L Gates, and Seyfarth have all revealed their lateral M&A partners.
Death by a Thousand Cuts: Should Big Law Still Invest in Asia?
Persistent uncertainty and negative news signals to certain Asian corporations that it’s time to make a break for it. However, Jessica Seah in the Asia Legal Briefing argues that legal businesses cannot claim to have a worldwide offering without being present in Asia.
How an Australian Hospital’s General Counsel Made Legal Matter
When Fleur Katsmartin first got to The Royal Melbourne Hospital, she went door-to-door.
The Partners Are Not All Right: Why Senior Lawyers Need Mental Health Support
Partners often believe that the juniors are the ones in need of assistance and that they do not. However, that might not be the case.
How the A&O Shearman Merger Will Impact the Firm’s Africa Practice
As the international portfolio of the recently combined firm is still being developed, what does this mean for A&O’s long-standing Africa practice?
UK General Election: Lawyers’ Attention Turns to Labour’s Tax Agenda
When U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced an early general election for July 4, many British lawyers were just as shocked as their clients. This was a vote that may reshape the tax landscape with the first change of government in over ten years.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
US law firm Perkins Coie hires Ian Bagshaw for London launch
Perkins Coie, a US law firm, is establishing its presence in London with the hiring of heavyweight private equity lawyer Ian Bagshaw.
Emma Dwyer has joined Fieldfisher as a Partner in their Derivatives and Structured Finance Group
Emma makes her move from Allen & Overy where she was a partner for over 10 years.
McDermott Adds Heavyweight London Finance Duo From Morrison & Foerster
McDermott Will & Emery have enhanced their finance and restructuring expertise in London with the addition of a heavyweight finance duo from Morrison & Foerster. Christopher Kandel and John Burge join after spending almost five years each at Morrison & Foerster.
Cleary Gottlieb adds private equity lawyers from Kirkland, Travers Smith in London recruitment drive
Counsel Joanna Roberts leaves Travers Smith to become a partner in their debt finance practice as Alexander van der Gaag joins from Kirkland.
Beauchamps appoints John Gaffney as EU and competition partner and head of ESG
During his role as a partner at a prominent Dublin law firm’s EU, competition, and regulatory unit, Mr. Gaffney advised a wide range of public and private clients on matters pertaining to state assistance, competition, merger control, and public procurement law.
Tayor Wessing recruits patent specialist Eoin Martyn as partner
Mr. Martyn is admitted to practice as an attorney in Queensland, Australia, England & Wales, and Ireland. He joins from Mcann FitzGerald LLP.
EMEA
Hausfeld, a global disputes-only law firm, is happy to announce that partners Joanna Christoforou from Morgan Lewis and René Galle from A&O Shearman will join its London and Hamburg offices, respectively. Both have extensive experience in antitrust law and antitrust litigation.
Addleshaw Goddard adds new Employment partner to growing Middle East business
Addleshaw Goddard has appointed Rachel Hill as a Partner in its regional employment practice. Her appointment comes shortly after Anna Zeitlin from PwC joins the firm to build a fintech practice.
Standard Bank Loses Top Lawyers, Including Former Norton Rose CEO, to African Firms ENS and CDH
CDH South Africa has named Marelise van der Westhuizen, Standard Bank’s head of disputes, as a director in its dispute resolution practice.
Goodwin and White & Case Grow Investment Funds Practices in Luxembourg
In order to address the increasing demand from clients for specialized funds counsel and to pursue new market opportunities, White & Case has appointed Emmanuel Gutton, a seasoned global investment funds attorney, as a partner. Virginie Leroy, a partner in private investment funds, has joined Goodwin Procter’s expanding Luxembourg office. She comes from AKD, a Benelux firm, where she co-headed the investment management practice and served as a partner.
APAC
Bird & Bird to open office in Tokyo, Japan, recruiting new partner Hiro Iwamura
Bird & Bird plans to create an office in Tokyo, Japan, before the end of the year, with Hiroyuki (Hiro) Iwamura serving as a partner in the region.
Baker McKenzie, Adds New Litigator as Firms in Korea Fight to Bolster Disputes Offering
Sunyoung Kim, who is dual-qualified in the United States and Korea, has spent the last ten years with Big Six firm Lee & Ko, her move to Baker McKenzie marks a return to the company, where she previously worked as an associate in the Hong Kong office.
Nishimura & Asahi Adds Hunton Andrews Kurth Tokyo Partner in Vietnam
Following Sean Conaty’s departure, Hunton Andrews Kurth will have one dual-based partner and one associate in Tokyo.
Trowers & Hamlins Hires Former Squire, McDermott Singapore Managing Partner
Ignatius Hwang has joined the firm as a partner and will oversee its Asian energy and infrastructure practices.
The Americas
Akin Adds Sidley Energy M&A, Projects Partner in Houston
Akin has announced that Trent Bridges, an energy transactions partner, has joined the firm’s Houston office. He comes to the firm from Sidley Austin and previously worked as vice president and assistant general counsel for Magellan Midstream Partners, L.P.
Potter Anderson Welcomes New Delaware Counsel
Potter Anderson announced that Nicole K. Pedi has joined the firm as counsel with the General Litigation Practice Group.
Sullivan & Cromwell Lands 2 Skadden M&A Partners in Silicon Valley
Mike Ringler and Peter Jones are set to join from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, according to a firm statement.
People in the News—May 16, 2024—Fitzpatrick Lentz
David M. Steckel has been welcomed to Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba’s employment law and labour relations group.
Slew of Big Law Firms Invest in Lateral Partners in California
This past week, over a dozen Am Law 200 firms announced lateral hires in California. The majority of California hiring were made in Orange County and Los Angeles, but some also came from Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, and San Francisco. Several new attorneys were hired as part of the firm’s transactional practices.
Manufacturing Industry CLO Returns to K&L Gates After Two Decades
Dan Fayock was most recently executive vice president, chief legal officer, and corporate secretary for Arconic, an aluminium company.
Winston & Strawn Adds New IP Leader From Buchalter in San Francisco
Marlene Williams joins Winston & Strawn’s trademarks practice as global lead and counsel. Previously, Williams was a shareholder in Buchalter’s intellectual property firm, which operated out of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
On the Move and After Hours: Goldberg Segalla
Goldberg Segalla has announced the addition of Christopher J. Major, Esq. as a partner to the firm’s worker’s compensation group in Newark.
Norton Rose Fulbright Gains Private Equity Partner in Dallas
Nate Christensen, a private equity lawyer, has joined the firm’s Corporate, M&A, and Securities group as a partner in its Dallas office.
Debevoise Lands Clifford Chance US Antitrust Head
Tim Cornell had worked at Clifford Chance for almost 14 years and spent the last 11 as the firm’s head of antitrust in the United States.
Harter Secrest Adds Rochester Counsel, Nossaman Hires Denver Partner
Douglas R. Smith has joined Harter Secrest & Emery as counsel in the intellectual property practice group of the firm’s Rochester, New York, office; also, Nossaman has added Brent Butzin to its infrastructure group.
Lex Mundi Appoints Partner at Mexican Member Firm Basham as Chair
Carlos Velázquez De León will manage a network of over 150 renowned independent law firms from around the world as Lex Mundi begins on a new strategic plan.
In house
UnitedHealth Carves Out New Job for Legal Chief as DOJ Antitrust Probe Looms
Rupert Bondy will now be senior counsel and executive vice president for governance, compliance, and security.
Owner of Luxury Hotels Plucks New GC From Apartment Industry
Anika Fischer has taken over as legal director of DiamondRock Hospitality, which is experiencing leadership changes 20 years after its founding.
US coal mining business Alpha rehires former CLO to head legal team
Mark Manno has been rehired by US mining business Alpha Metallurgical Resources as general counsel. Roger Nicholson is departing the company at the end of this month.
US pizza chain Marco’s Pizza promotes former Subway lawyer to legal chief
US pizza business Marco’s Pizza has elevated Kristin Corcoran to the position of chief legal counsel, taking Todd Watson’s place as general counsel and top legal officer.
Team Moves
Venable, adding 8-Lawyer Lateral Team, Joins Fast-Growing Legal Market in Colorado
Venable LLP announced that they are expanding their geographic reach to include the state of Colorado, with the addition of eight top commercial and employment litigators and counsellors stationed in Denver. James (Jim) Sawtelle, a trial lawyer with over 30 years of experience, will be the partner in charge of Venable’s new office.
K&L Gates Recruits 4-Lawyer International Trade Group From DLA Piper
K&L Gates, a prominent international law practice, have taken a significant strategic step in hiring a four-lawyer International Trade Group from DLA Piper. The new hires join K&L Gates at a time when trade practices in Big Law are expected to grow.
HFW Poaches Again from MinterEllison, Takes Team of 7 in Hong Kong
A group of five associates, led by two disputes partners, Steven Yip and Malcolm Chin, has joined the UK company. Yip and Chin co-led MinterEllison’s building, infrastructure, and projects practice in Hong Kong. The team’s departure will leave the Australian corporation with no construction or project-focused offerings in the city.
Latham & Watkins Poised to Bring in Cahill Partner Trio in London
After more than three years at Cahill Gordon, Jonathan Brownson, Joydeep Choudhuri, and Prue Criddle are expected to join Latham. Between 2020 and 2021, all three of them moved from Allen & Overy, now known as A&O Shearman, to the Cahill’s London office.
Promotions & Appointments:
Freshfields Partner, NFL Players Union Attorney Named Legal Aid’s Servants of Justice
Mary Eaton, partner and co-head of securities and shareholder litigation at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, received the prize this year, as did DeMaurice Smith, former executive director of the National Football League Players Association.
Womble Bond Plans US Leadership Shift, After 9-Year Term of Betty Temple
Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP announced today that Merrick Benn has been appointed US Chair and CEO, beginning January 1, 2025. Benn, a member of the firm’s Global Board, will succeed Betty Temple, who has served as US Chair and CEO since 2016.
People in the News—May 15, 2024—Holland & Knight, Buchanan Ingersoll
Dana Feinstein, an employment attorney at Holland & Knight in Philadelphia, was recently elected to the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) board of directors.
Ashurst appoints Arnaud Julien as Luxembourg office Managing Partner
Ashurst, a global legal company, has announced that Arnaud Julien has been appointed managing partner of its Luxembourg office; previously, he was a partner in the investment funds department.
Bennett Jones Names New Office Leaders in Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto
Kwang Lim will take the leadership title in Vancouver, Preet Gill takes on the leadership role in Toronto, meanwhile acting Montreal managing partner Pascale Dionne-Bourassa now has the official title.
Norton Rose Fulbright Names Longtime Corporate Lawyer as New Managing Partner in Montreal
Nicolas Labrecque succeeds Luc Morin, who was just appointed as a judge.
Bird & Bird appoints Michael Finn to lead Irish office
Since becoming a partner in 2023, he has overseen some of the company’s most significant client engagements in the areas of intellectual property litigation, business conflicts, technology, and life sciences.
Keoghs NI announces 21 new appointments and promotions
The insurance law expert Keoghs has announced 21 new hires and promotions, including two new partners, six associates, and six more lawyers, marking a significant increase in Northern Ireland.
Mergers & Alliances:
Shearman-Associated Firm Is Being ‘Dissolved’ Following A&O Merger
Studio Legale Associato Shearman & Sterling (Studio Legale), the Italian firm that has served as Shearman & Sterling’s affiliated firm since 2021, is being dissolved, according to four sources familiar with the issue.
SurePoint Technologies Acquires Business Intelligence Provider Leopard Solutions
SurePoint Technologies has announced the purchase of Leopard Solutions as part of a strategic effort to strengthen its business intelligence capabilities. This acquisition is a big step forward for SurePoint Technologies as it attempts to strengthen its position in the competitive landscape of data analytics and business solutions.
Due diligence, done early in merger talks, should mitigate any potential surprises about litigation against a law firm.
Office Openings & Closing:
Paul Weiss Funds New Litigation Center to Combat Hate-Driven Violence
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP today announced the establishment of The Center to Combat Hate, which will work with civil rights organizations and educational institutions to pursue impactful litigation to address and rectify hate-motivated violence and intimidation.
Cahill Opens Delaware Office, Rolls Out Expanded Digital Assets Practice
Cahill Gordon & Reindel will create a new office in Wilmington, Delaware, as it develops its cryptocurrency business with three additional partners, the firm announced Wednesday.
Nelson Mullins Opens New LA Office, Adds 6-Lawyer Product Liability Team
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, a full-service national legal firm with offices across the country, announced the opening of a new office in downtown Los Angeles, California, as well as the addition of six litigation professionals from LondonFischer to the firm’s product liability practice.
British Firm Spencer West Opens Office in Sydney
The firm has appointed former BBC lawyer Andrew Ailwood as its new office lead.
Australia’s HWL Ebsworth Announces New Leaders After Managing Partner’s Death
Russell Mailler, the chief strategy officer who worked closely with Martinez, is promoted to chief executive partner, while Kris Hopkins is promoted to CEO.
Addleshaw Goddard Appoints New Middle East Managing Partner
Robin Hickman, who was chosen as Addleshaw Goddard’s regional managing partner for a four-year term beginning May 1, 2024, follows Andrew Johnston, who left the region to become the firm’s managing partner in London on the same date.
Financials:
Boosted by Energy Work, Bracewell Grew Revenue by 7.6%, PEP by 11.4% in 2023
With high demand in the energy sector in the United States and around the world, Bracewell’s revenue increased by 7.6% in 2023. In a year of great financial performance, revenue per lawyer increased by 14.1%, as did profits per equity partner by 11.4%.
According to Nvidia’s proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday, Timothy Teter’s remuneration has increased by 21% from the $9.1 million he received last year.
Q1 Results Suggest Texas Law Firms On Track for a Strong 2024
Larger legal firms started 2024 on a high note, with strong first-quarter performance. According to recent studies, revenue, demand, and rates increased, indicating a strong start to the year for the legal profession.
In-House Counsel Saw Pay Rise Over Past Year, Despite Drop in Job-Hopping
According to the research, median salary for in-house counsel increased by 4.4% in 2024 compared to the previous year, with managing counsel experiencing the highest rise (3.8%), followed by general counsel (3.2%) and senior counsel (2.9%).
Top Partner Pay at Simpson Thacher to Breach $20M
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett’s top partners are set to earn more than $20 million this year, as the Wall Street law firm widens the pay gap between its best and lowest-paid equity partners.
City pay war: Linklaters matches Freshfields with £150k NQ lawyer salary
The move represents a £25,000 or 20% rise in rates, which were previously £125,000. The raise went into effect at the beginning of the month.
Technology & Innovation:
Hence Technologies to Launch AI Software to Help Law Firms With Geopolitical Risks
Hence Technologies, a prominent provider of AI solutions, is going to launch innovative software to help law firms navigate geopolitical concerns. This new AI technology promises to provide legal professionals with real-time information and analysis to help them manage geopolitical risks and protect their clients’ interests.
Optimize AI Outputs With a Repeatable, Scalable Human QC Process
In this article, Mary Bennett, shares her story with AI and uses tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly are not just tools; they are game changers. They significantly enhance the quality and consistency of content, providing a reassuring boost to our work.
Big Law’s AI Talent War Aims to Influence Software Development
The current legal landscape shows an increase in Big Law’s interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Many of the major law firms are shifting to a more tech-centric approach, leveraging their status as leading users of legal technology to influence vendor development of AI-powered services.
Wilson Sonsini Brings ‘Agentic AI’ to Clients With New Neuron Contracting Module
The commercial solution is the latest addition to Neuron, Wilson Sonsini’s next-generation proprietary software platform that streamlines, automates, and digitizes the normal legal processes that a start-up goes through—from formation to exit.
‘Another Arrow in the Quiver’: Quinn Brings AI-Backed Litigation Forecasting Tools to All US Lawyers
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, the world’s largest all-disputes law firm, announced this morning that it will collaborate with Pre/Dicta, a legal technology start-up that uses artificial intelligence and data analytics to produce forecasting tools for litigators.
Swedish Gen AI Assistant Leya Raises $10.5M in Seed Funding
Leya offers a platform with an AI system that integrates with the papers and information that firms have accumulated over time, as well as legal data from over 15 jurisdictions.
Everlaw Offers Free Gen AI Access Through ‘Everlaw for Good’ Program
Everlaw has launched the ‘Everlaw for Good’ program. This effort seeks to democratize access to cutting-edge legal technology by providing free access to Gen AI, Everlaw’s powerful AI-powered document analysis tool.
Klarna Lawyers Told to Use ChatGPT to Save Time Drafting Contracts
The CEO of the fintech company has instructed employees to “test, test, test, and explore,” with 86% of the legal function already using generative AI models in their daily work.
Diversity & Inclusion:
‘Walk a Fine Line’: Managing Hyperpolarized Environment Zooms Up Employers’ List of Worries
According to the Littler Mendelson 12th Annual Employer Survey, 49% of the 400 in-house lawyers, business executives, and HR professionals polled were moderately or very concerned about managing controversial political or social ideas in the run-up to the 2024 elections.
Rising Stars: Europe’s Best Up-and-Coming Female Lawyers, 2024
As businesses prioritize diversity and work-life balance, women lawyers say they are more able to establish their own pathways to success—meeting the demands of their practices while preserving and prioritizing their personal connections, family life, and passion projects.
Japan’s Big Law Firms Are Nurturing Female Talent. But What If the Talent Pool Dries Up?
In February, lawyer Reiko Fuchigami was elected president of the Japan Federation of Bar Associations, heralding a triumph for gender equality in Japan. Her election garnered domestic and worldwide headlines because she is the first woman to lead Japan’s largest legal organization, which was created in 1949.
Q&As With The Legal’s Diversity Initiative Honorees
The Legal Intelligencer is proud to announce four finalists for the 2024 Diversity Initiative award.
Lawyer Suing King & Spalding Asks Law Firm to Apologize for Diversity Program Exclusion
A former University of Baltimore School of Law student claims King & Spalding refused to accept her for a summer associate diversity fellowship. She claims in a federal lawsuit that she was discriminated against because she is white and heterosexual.
Market Commentary:
‘A Leap of Faith’: Some In-House Leaders Join Fight to Fix Big Law’s Mental Health Crisis
Partner Michael Kraut is cited in a Corporate Counsel article about the possible role of legal departments in promoting the mental health of professionals at law firms.
How Much Deference Makes a Difference?
This article compares New York and New Jersey’s appellate standards of review for pain and suffering awards in medical malpractice claims.
Navigating a New Legal Landscape: Protecting the Corporate Veil in the Med Mal Suit
David G. Tomeo and Melissa A. Dziak, shareholders with Marshall Dennehey, write that “This article explores the historical roots and status of the “piercing the corporate veil” doctrine in New Jersey and Pennsylvania”.
Pennsylvania Legal Awards: 2024 Lawyers on the Fast Track (Large Firms)
This award honours the region’s most promising Pennsylvania and Delaware lawyers under the age of forty.
It’s a Good Time to Be a Sports and Entertainment Lawyer in Sunny South Florida
This article discusses how sports and entertainment are hard industries to navigate, but they are also incredibly enjoyable to work in.
Osborne Clarke becomes first firm referred to tribunal over alleged ‘SLAPP’
Osborne Clarke is one of two firms referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) for allegedly utilizing a’strategic lawsuit against public participation’ (SLAPP) to represent former Conservative Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi.
Can Hong Kong’s Independent Law Firms Survive Without a Chinese Tie-Up?
The legal business has seen a surge of mergers between Hong Kong- and mainland China-founded firms, indicating that Hong Kong local practices are reconsidering their future as independent firms.
Eversheds and Fieldfisher miss out on £4m HS2 panel
Three companies have secured £4 million slots on the most recent panel of High Speed Two railway (HS2), taking the place of Eversheds Sutherland and Fieldfisher. Sharpe Pritchard, Gowling WLG, and Burges Salmon have all been awarded positions on the panel for general, commercial, and procurement legal services.
A problem shared is a problem halved: is that the case for lawyers?
This article was written by Nikki Edwards and Avneet Baryan who believe that creating a safe space for lawyers to share their feelings can improve mental health and wellbeing.
Nurturing the Next Generation: Professional Development in the Legal Sphere
By embracing lifelong learning, ethical leadership, and technological innovation, young attorneys may negotiate the intricacies of the legal world and make significant contributions.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Another Exit For Travers As Corporate Partner Walks To Linklaters
Richard Spedding, an M&A partner in Travers Smith’s corporate M&A and equity capital markets practice, joined in 1999 following five years as an associate at Freshfields.
Squire Patton Boggs adds partners across UK from four firms
SPB has employed Ellie Pinnells from Fieldfisher to lead its Birmingham litigation team.
Philip Lee welcomes Dr Alison Hardiman as planning and environmental partner
Philip Lee has made Dr Alison Hardiman a partner in the firm’s planning and environmental practice.
DLA Piper recruits former European Medicines Agency legal head
DLA Piper has hired Stefano Marino, the former head of the European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) legal department, as a senior consultant.
EMEA
Paul Weiss Expansion Drive Continues With Further Additions
Richard Pepper has worked with Macfarlanes for nearly three years and joined the firm in 2021. He worked as a counsel at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton for ten years and trained at Slaughter and May.
Africa Moves: PwC Director and Shell Counsel Take Law Firm Roles
The director of legal business and solutions at PwC in Kenya has joined Spencer West, a fee-sharing UK law practice, as a co-founding partner in its Nairobi office. Joseph Githaiga joined the firm on May 1st and will work on the corporate, commercial, and data protection and cyber security departments, according to the announcement.
Isabelle Dauzet joins Stephenson Harwood as partner
Stephenson Harwood LLP has bolstered its international employment skills with the addition of partner Isabelle Dauzet, who will manage the firm’s Paris employment team.
Eversheds Hires Partner-Led Banking Team in Milan, in Latest Shearman-Related Exit After A&O Tie-Up
Pasquale Bifulco, who joined Eversheds, comes from Studio Legale Associato Shearman & Sterling, where he was a partner, and leads a team that includes a senior associate and an associate acquired from another firm.
Paul Weiss adds antitrust partner from European Commission for Brussels launch
Henrik Morch has joined the firm’s antitrust practice as a partner after spending more than three decades at the European Commission.
APAC
Korea’s Big Six Yulchon Adds Tech and Entertainment Expert from Lee & Ko
South Korea’s Big Six firm Yulchon has hired Chunghwan Choi to its intellectual property and technology practice in Seoul.
Loeb & Loeb Takes Two from CMS Hong Kong Affiliate
Shirley Lau and Polly Liu have joined Loeb & Loeb in Hong Kong as partners in the Capital Markets and Corporate department.
Yoon & Yang adds three former judges to bolster litigation bench
South Korea Big Six firm Yoon & Yang has continued to develop its litigation practice after adding three former judges Dongkeun Lee (L), Jae Ho Hwang, and Sungwook You to its rapidly expanded partner ranks.
The Americas
Former Federal Prosecutor Adds Name to New York Litigation and White-Collar Boutique’s Shingle
Lynn Neils has become a named partner at Elliott Kwok Levine Jaroslaw Neils, where she will be reunited with fellow Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison alums Mark Elliott, Ilene Jaroslaw, and Matthew Levine, who worked together as associates in the early 1990s.
Gibson Dunn, Cahill Hire NY Restructuring Partners as Practice Outperforms Most
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP is delighted to announce that Caith Kushner has joined the firm’s New York office as a partner and member of the Liability Management and Special Situations Practice in the Business Restructuring and Reorganisation Practice Group.
After Stint at Freshfields, Antitrust Duo Returns to Wilson Sonsini
Jamillia Ferris, who previously led Freshfields’ U.S. antitrust practice, has rejoined Wilson Sonsini as a partner, alongside Matthew McDonald.
Mintz Hires Manatt’s Data Privacy Leader, 2 Colleagues in Boston Expansion
Scott Lashway, who founded Manatt’s Boston office in 2019, is now the co-chair of Mintz’s data privacy and cybersecurity practice.
Skadden Adds Sofi GC, Shearman Fintech Co-Chair to Lead Financial Regulatory Group
Mark Chorazak and Adam Cohen join in Washington DC and New York respectively amid increasing US bank regulation.
Energy Partners Make Big Law Moves in Texas
Andrew Lehman, a private equity partner at McDermott Will & Emery, has returned to Akin as a partner in Houston; Husch has hired Locke Lord energy regulatory partner Carrie Collier-Brown in Austin; and Clifford Chance has hired Shearman & Sterling tax partner Todd Lowther to its US tax practice in Houston.
Gowling WLG Snags Former Top Lawyer From Canada’s Largest Alcohol Retailer
Julie Lane joins the firm’s food and beverage group after working for the Liquor Control Board of Ontario for more than two decades.
Ashurst Hires Papua New Guinea Partner from PwC
Ashurst, a global law firm, has expanded its Port Moresby office by hiring Tureia Sample as their new Projects and Corporate partner. Tureia will become the Office Managing Partner (OMP) later this year. Her appointment demonstrates Ashurst’s commitment to the energy transition and its ongoing investment in Papua New Guinea.
Freshfields Antitrust Duo Returns to Wilson Sonsini
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, the world’s leading provider of legal services to technology, life sciences, and growth industries, announced that Jamillia Ferris and Matthew McDonald have rejoined the firm as partners.
Newsmakers: ‘I hope I make him proud:’ Alfred Ted Ruemke Joins PMR Law in Honor of Late Son
Esteemed trial lawyer Alfred “Ted” Ruemke has moved to Houston-brd Paranjpe Mahadass Ruemke, or PMR Law, in honour of his late son, who co-founded the firm.
Steptoe, Nixon Peabody and Nelson Mullins Announce DC Litigation, Investigations Hires
Steptoe has hired Sandra Hanna, a partner at Miller & Chevalier, to expand its investigations and white-collar defence practice in Washington, D.C., and New York.
Kate Felton has joined Nossaman’s environment and land use division, while Jeff Sharkey has joined Balch & Bingham’s Washington, D.C. office as a senior regulatory adviser to expand the firm’s nuclear energy practice.
Alston & Bird boosts US litigation group with Pryor Cashman partner hire
Scott Schirick joins in New York, where he will focus on federal and state litigation, regulatory, and white-collar issues.
In-House
Collision-Repair Giant’s Executive Overhaul Includes Hiring PE Veteran as CLO.
Caliber Collision, the nation’s largest collision repair chain, has appointed Mark Chloupek as its chief legal officer.
Former Legal Exec at Hulu, Disney Joins Telecom Aiming to Narrow Digital Divide
Chadwick Ho, a member of the leadership team that founded the streaming website Hulu in 2007, is taking over legal control of Lumen Technologies, an old-school telecom that has transformed itself into a broadband provider for the masses.
Intercepted Memo Says NFL’s Legal Chief to Retire After Quarter-Century With League
Jeff Pash, the NFL’s executive vice president and general counsel, is ready to retire after 27 years with the organization.
Ex-Conagra General Counsel Takes Legal Reins of Rival Hormel
Colleen Batcheler has returned to the food sector after a two-year hiatus to help Hertz regain traction after its bankruptcy.
Former Simmons & Simmons lawyer takes legal reigns of Post Office Ltd.
Daniel Chumbley is leaving Simmons, where he was an adaptive consultant, to take on the position of Head of Legal at Post Office Ltd.
Space internet business AST SpaceMobile hires CLO
AST SpaceMobile, a US-listed space-based internet services company, has appointed Andrew Johnson as its new chief legal officer, succeeding outgoing general counsel Brian Heller.
Lumen Technologies names former Sabre CLO as next legal head
Chad Ho will be replacing long-time legal chief Stacey Goff, who is exiting after 26 years with the company.
Team Moves
Italian Practices Hire Up Amid A&O Shearman Launch
Fabio Fauceglia, an M&A partner at Studio Legale, has joined Orrick’s M&A and private equity division in Milan, along with five associates, beginning May 1st. Orrick has also hired Leonardo Pinta, an associate at Studio Legale, as an M&A counsel in Rome, starting May 1st.
Squire Patton Boggs Adds Partners From 4 Firms in UK Hiring Push
The London hires include finance lawyer Chris Hastings from Eversheds Sutherland, Georgie Messent who is the former director, and head of environmental and sustainability at PwC, and tax lawyer David Nisbet from Osborne Clarke.
Archer & Greiner has brought on eight associates to their office in New Jersey; Genova Burns adds two attorneys; and more moves.
JSA adds four-lawyer disputes team from K law
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—May 7, 2024—Hamburg Rubin, Pietragallo Gordon
Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin announced that John F. McCaul has been elected to the board of directors for the MontCo Anti-Hunger Network (MAHN).
People in the News—May 8, 2024—Raynes & Lawn
Community Legal Services and Philadelphia Legal Assistance (PLA) recently welcomed two new members to their overlapping boards of directors including Joseph Z. Traub, a partner at Raynes & Lawn.
Vaughan McLean, Formerly Vaughan Baio, Appoints New Leader, While Pursuing Further Growth
Tracey McLean, headquartered in Syracuse, New York, will join Joseph Vaughan at the firm, which has also added workers in New Jersey, Florida, and Philadelphia.
People in the News—May 10, 2024—Archer & Greiner, Reger Rizzo
Debra S. Rosen, an Archer & Greiner partner, has been appointed to the Alice Paul Institute’s (API) board of directors.
Buchanan Ingersoll’s New Leader Eyes Strategic Growth in Existing Markets
On Thursday, Pittsburgh-based James Newell succeeded Joe Dougherty as chairman and CEO of the Am Law 200 business.
Fountain Court’s Matthew Gearing KC becomes first former solicitor called to Singapore Bar
The former A&O partner has joined Toby Landau KC and Jern-Fei Ng KC as UK appointments to the Law Society of Singapore.
McDermott Will & Emery refreshes London leadership team
Aymen Mahmoud will take over as London managing partner from Hamid Yunis, while Graham White will become senior partner.
McCann FitzGerald appoints Adam Finlay as head of technology and innovation
McCann FitzGerald has named Adam Finlay to lead the firm’s technology and innovation group.
Mergers & Alliances:
Midmarket Firms Based in New York and Connecticut Combine for Greater Shared Presence in Northeast.
Harris Beach, based in Rochester, is completing plans to merge with Murtha Cullina, a Connecticut-based firm with a presence throughout New England, to form Harris Beach Murtha, which will have over 250 attorneys working from 15 offices across three states.
Clark Hill Launches Boulder Office in Combination With Food, Beverage, Hospitality Boutique
Clark Hill, an Am Law 200 company, has expanded its Mountain West presence by combining with Boulder’s three-lawyer LaszloLaw.
Australia’s Thomson Geer Takes Over Perth Practice, Buys Stake in IP Business
The company announces that it has purchased a 4.9% share in takeover target Qantm.
Office Openings & Closing:
‘Macro Impacts’: How Much Am Law 200 Firms Have Reduced Their Space
In 2023, the Am Law 200 firms leased an average of 525,500 square feet of office space for $50.20 per square foot. This article shows how the stats have changed in recent years.
Top Biglaw Firm Opens Another Texas Outpost With The Help Of Some Lateral Partners
Willkie Farr & Gallagher, a firm that brought in $1,500,000,000 gross revenue in 2023, ranking it at No. 30 on the most current Am Law 100, is opening its latest office.
As More Law Firms Expand in Texas, Some Am Law 25 Firms Stay on Sidelines
Six of the Am Law 25 firms do not have an office in Houston. Is it more difficult to attract high-performing staff when other Am Law 100 firms have already relocated in?
Barnes & Thornburg Relocates Nashville Office Near Health Care Institutions
Barnes & Thornburg LLP has announced the launch of a new office in Nashville, Tennessee. The office will be led by five new partners in key areas for the firm, including capital markets partners Jay H. Knight and Taylor K. Wirth, healthcare partners J.D. Thomas and Elisa Harris, and white-collar litigation partner Joy Boyd Longnecker.
UK Firm Opens 11-Strong Office in Peru Led by Three Partners
The Lima office’s inauguration follows the firm’s March 2024 expansion in Mexico, when it acquired a 12-person team managed by three seasoned litigators.
Freeman Mathis & Gary Opens Fort Lauderdale Office, Plans for More Florida Growth
Managing Partner Ben Mathis said “Both in Tampa and now in Fort Lauderdale, (lawyers) are just busy. We could hire someone tomorrow with no business at any level and fill them up.”
Financials:
The 2024 Am Law 200: Ranked By Gross Revenue
Gross Revenue for the Second Hundred increased in 2023 by 5.9%, which is higher than the 4.2% increase in 2022.
S&P predicts “flat to 10% growth” in capital markets revenue relating to institutional lenders for 2024.
Pa.’s Second Hundred Sees Increased Revenue, Mixed Performance
The performance of Pennsylvania’s Second Hundred firms was more variable, with several struggling to meet the national average of 5.9% revenue growth.
Quinn Emanuel Hikes London NQ Pay to £180K
The news about the raise comes after Freshfields’ increase earlier this month, with some suggesting it signals a revival of the pay war.
Technology & Innovation:
Aderant Launches Stridyn, New AI-Powered Cloud Platform to Connect All Products
Stridyn will now power all of Aderant’s cloud applications with built-in AI capabilities offered via MADDI, the provider’s AI-powered virtual assistant that debuted last summer.
Reveal Acquires Onna to Enhance E-Discovery Platform’s Data Management Capabilities
Reveal, an e-discovery service, has announced the acquisition of Onna, a data management platform, confirming its ambition to develop an end-to-end electronic discovery tool powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
‘Making Sure the World Knows We Are Doing It’: Sullivan & Cromwell Formalizes AI Practice
The firm has been working on artificial intelligence since 2015, however the recent advancements in capability, along with growing amounts of money invested as well as ethical and political questions, demand a more focused approach.
Think Gen AI Is Mind-Blowing Today? Next Decade’s Advancements Will Be ‘Momentous’
Suffolk University Law School Dean Andrew Perlman stated, “I believe it is going to be the most significant technology ever created for the legal industry and many others, In a CLOC Global Institute keynote.”
CLOC Legal Tech Rundown: Ironclad Custom AI, New Lexis Tool and More
An update on product introductions and new alliances from the CLOC Global Institute 2024 conference in Las Vegas, featuring ContractPodAi, Evisort, Icertis, Ironclad, and LexisNexis.
Legal Tech Rundown: Adobe Acrobat AI Assistant, New DISCO Features, Taft AI Group and More
Aatos, a Helsinki-based legal technology and legal services software firm, announced plans to expand throughout Finland, Sweden, and Denmark. Also, Adobe has announced the release of Acrobat AI Assistant for its enterprise customers.
Hence Technologies to Launch AI Software to Help Law Firms with Geopolitical Risks
The software promises to not only map geopolitical events and transform them into legal concerns, but it also aims to assist in-house legal departments in identifying potential political implications and infringements on their transactions and matters.
Clients are increasingly turning away from Big Law in search of that elusive personal touch, while young litigators want autonomy in their own companies.
Sullivan & Cromwell eyes artificial intelligence growth with new practice launch
Sullivan & Cromwell, a top 25 US firm, has launched a specialized artificial intelligence department to capitalize on the surge in generative AI technology and growing client demand for AI-related advice.
Diversity & Inclusion:
‘The Biggest Fallacy of the Industry’: How Flexible Working Policies are Failing Both Men and Women
Top lawyers and commentators highlight how policies fail women and how, owing to social pressure, men frequently avoid the subject entirely.
Market Commentary:
More Workers Seek Mental Health Accommodations, Creating Vexing Legal, HR Decisions for Firms
Littler Mendelson polled 400 in-house lawyers, executives, and HR professionals, and three-quarters of them observed an increase in requests for leaves of absence or other mental health accommodations.
‘We’re Watching A&O Shearman With Interest’: CMS’s New Senior Partner on US Merger Ambition
Charles Currier, who took the top job late last year, feels as if the firm has ‘good sense’ of the US market now.
As White & Case Celebrates 50 Years in D.C., Firm Focuses on Litigation and Regulatory Strengths
While other large legal firms are expanding their Washington, D.C. offices to become full-service, White & Case’s emphasis on difficult regulatory and litigation matters in the District demonstrates the firm’s strategy for remaining profitable in that area.
Texas Second Hundred Grows to Four With Addition of Chamberlain Hrdlicka
The four Texas-based firms on the Second Hundred join six other Texas firms on the American Law 100.
Filings for Hong Kong listings have surged, as have privatizations. Kirkland, Clifford Chance, Davis Polk, and Skadden take up employment.
Dominant Dubai: Fresh Data Shows Most Middle East Lawyers are Based in the City
Despite Saudi Arabia’s and Abu Dhabi’s best efforts, an in-depth examination reveals that around 60% of lawyers at the top Middle Eastern companies are based in Dubai.
What’s Going On at Paul Weiss?
According to The Global Lawyer, the US company has solid reasons to rapidly expand with top-tier lawyers in London. However, it has since established itself in Brussels and opened a Latin America practice. Is the New York corporation expanding globally?
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Dentons hires Laura Whyatt as a competition partner in London
Dentons has engaged Laura Whyatt, a contentious competition lawyer, as a Partner in London. Laura joined Willkie Farr & Gallagher after previously working at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan and Sherman & Sterling in London and Brussels.
Allen & Overy’s UK financial services regulatory head resigns ahead of Shearman & Sterling merger
Damian Carolan heads for the exit as Magic Circle stalwart Allen & Overy prepared to merge with US law firm Shearman & Sterling on 1 May.
Latest Travers Defection as Infrastructure Partner Joins Sidley
Ben Thompson, who has been with Travers for just under three years, came from another US company, Weil, Gotshal Manges, where he was counsel.
Davis Polk Takes Paul Hastings’ Former Co-Head of Global Finance in London
In a statement regarding Luke McDougall’s departure, Paul Hastings expressed confidence in the London office and the firm overall, citing an increase in work so far in 2024.
White & Case, Linklaters Swap India Experts in Singapore, London
Savi Hebbur joined White & Case from Linklaters in London, and Sayak Maity left White & Case for Linklaters in Singapore.
Simmons & Simmons welcomes Micheál Mulvey as corporate partner
Mr Mulvey has over 15 years of experience advising clients on cross-border mergers and acquisitions, late-stage venture capital and corporate venturing, and foreign direct investment in a variety of industries, with a particular emphasis on healthcare and life sciences, technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT), and food and agribusiness.
EMEA
Germany Moves Digest: Hires for DLA Piper, Goodwin and Morgan Lewis
Partner Christian Freiherr von Buddenbrock joined DLA Piper’s new Düsseldorf office in the April of this year, together with one counsel and one senior associate.
Orrick replenishes Milan office with hires from Shearman’s Italian arm
Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe has drafted in Fabio Fauceglia, the former M&A head of Shearman & Sterling’s Italian associate firm to rebuild its transactional capacity in the country.
Shearman’s Italy head joins White & Case on eve of A&O merger
Dominic Fanuele the head of Shearman & Sterling’s association firm in Italy, has left to join White & Case.
APAC
Weil Gotshal Hong Kong Managing Partner Leaves For GC Role
Tim Gardner, Weil Gotshal & Manges’ Hong Kong managing partner and co-head of its Asia private equity group, has left the company to become general counsel for PAG, an Asian private equity investment firm.
EY Law Braced For Trio of Departures
EY shuttered Riverview legal in December 2023 and stated that LC Lawyers, EY’s Hong Kong-affiliated legal firm, would also close its doors that month.
White & Case Adds Former Linklaters Asia Funds Head in Tokyo
Eriko Sakata, who has been with Linklaters for more than 20 years, advises global asset managers and blue-chip enterprises on the formation and management of investment funds and co-investment vehicles.
Australia’s JWS Hires Technology Partner Sophie Dawson from Bird & Bird
The hire comes after two technical partners left JWS last month.
Australian Firm Looks to Norton Rose for New Construction Partner
Alice Chen, who is joining Spark Helmore’s projects and government commercial team, specializes in construction contracts and procurement with a government-focused client base.
Asia Moves: Counsel-Level Hires Continue as Asian Firms Karas So, Chandler MHM Add to Ranks
Tara Hamilton, who is dual-qualified in Hong Kong and Australia, worked as a counsel at Weil, advising debtors and creditors on both contentious and non-contentious insolvency and restructuring situations. She also represents insolvency practitioners, trustees, and creditors in court.
The Americas
People in the News—April 30, 2024—Lamb McErlane, McNees
Lamb McErlane announced that attorney Katherine ‘Katie’ LaDow has been elected a partner in the firm.
Willkie Lures Investment Funds Leader From DLA Piper
Nathaniel Marrs, who previously co-led DLA’s investment fund department, has joined Willkie’s Chicago office.
Crowell Adds 2 More Corporate Partners From Neal Gerber in Chicago
Firm chair Phil Inglima said the four partners are considered as a team by their clients, and they anticipate the additions will help corporate growth both nationally and in the Chicago office.
Former Watergate Defense Attorney Leaves Squire Patton Boggs for Boutique, Citing Conflicts
Alvin Davis, who represented one of the Watergate plotters and was the Miami managing partner for two firms, is joining boutique company Heise Suarez Melville after years of dealing with conflict difficulties at his previous firm.
Big Law in DC Recruits From FDA, DOJ in Latest String of Government Hires
Several attorneys from the United States Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Justice have joined law firms in Washington, D.C. this week, including Sidley Austin, Mitchell Sandler, and Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel, in the latest round of federal government hires this election season.
Rate Flexibility, Plaintiff Focus Leads Atlanta Partner to Leave Seyfarth for Labor Boutique
Alex Meier said “there really is a lot of opportunity on the plaintiff’s side. I felt like there was a gap”.
Dentons Hires zs Litigation Partner from Ashurst
Jason Brooks will be located in the capital, Port Moresby. He is an experienced commercial litigation lawyer who handles judicial reviews, tax litigation, customs litigation, employment law, and regulatory concerns.
Brazil’s TozziniFreire Loses 3 Partners to Demarest, Another Partner to Lefosse
Partners João Busin, Juliana Maluf, and Beatriz Seixas joined Demarest Advogados, along with associates Isabella Koshyama, Bárbara Queiroz, Ilson Maciel, and Pedro Vecci. Additionally, Partner Fernando Carvalho joined Lefosse Advogados, along with associates Luis Sima, Beatriz Salotti, and Mylla Mattar.
Akerman Scoops Up Former Miami-Dade Attorney to Chair Land Use Practice
Dennis Kerbel had led the Miami-Dade County Attorney’s Office’s zoning, land use, and environment section since 2015.
On The Move: Jones Walker Seeks to Expand Tax Practice’s Reach; King & Spalding Adds Ex-Prosecutor
Zach Branson’s return to Jones Walker in Atlanta adds to the attraction of the firm’s national tax credits business, according to a practice leader. Also, Barry Kamar, a partner at King & Spalding, will strengthen the firm’s regional contacts in the Middle East and Latin America.
Connecticut Movers: Key Moves at Law Firms in Stamford, Hartford and New Haven
Former federal prosecutor Stephen B. Reynolds has returned to Day Pitney as a partner in the firm’s government enforcement and white-collar criminal defense group in Stamford.
Gibson Dunn Hires Wachtell FinReg Counsel to Join as Partner
Ro Spaziani collaborates with three Gibson Dunn practice areas at the confluence of financial regulation, fintech, and digital assets.
Faegre Drinker Adds Phila. Partners From Ballard Spahr, Manko Gold
Timothy Katsiff is a commercial litigator, whereas Thomas Duncan specializes in environmental transactions.
Paul Weiss Lands M&A Heavy Hitter From Cleary
Jim Langston joins Paul Weiss in New York as the need for corporate and M&A lawyers remains large, despite a sluggish transaction recovery.
Ex-Quinn Emanuel Sports Practice Leader Lands at Bilzin Sumberg
Robert Raskopf took two years out of the private practice world starting in 2021. He’s previously represented the Washington Commanders and Jerry Falwell Jr.
Clifford Chance underlines US ambitions with hires from Shearman and White & Case
Todd Lowther joins CC’s tax, energy, and infrastructure teams from Shearman in Houston, where the firm launched an office last summer to focus on energy and infrastructure work. Meanwhile, in New York, the firm has engaged Chang-Do Gong from White & Case to help strengthen its US M&A practice.
In-House
Longtime Lawyer at Hush Puppies Parent Steps Into GC Role at Messy Time
Dave Latchana is taking over legal operations at Wolverine Worldwide, which is struggling to compete with inexpensive shoe makers.
Nextdoor Chief Legal Officer Joins Executive Exodus
John Orta will leave the social networking platform for communities on May 8, marking the end of his nearly six-year tenure as legal chief.
Legal Chief Who Led Southwest Through 9/11, COVID-19 Stepping Down
Mark Shaw, 61, is staying on as executive adviser. Southwest CEO Bob Jordan reported that Shaw “helped us navigate many triumphs and challenges throughout his career.”
In-House Moves of Month: Hertz, IBM, TikTok Grab Headlines
Bethesda, Maryland-based DiamondRock Hospitality, an owner of high-end hotels, said goodbye to Bill Tennis, 69, its general counsel of 14 years.
E-Discovery Startup Fileread Hires Former AstraZeneca Head of Legal Services Josh Kreamer as GC
The hire comes less than a year after Fileread raised $6 million in funding from a Google-backed investment venture.
Former Post Office General Counsel Leaves Current GC Role Amid Inquiry Questioning
Chris Aujard, the Post Office’s temporary general counsel from 2013 to 2015, resigned from a number of general counsel and/or secretary positions for fintech investment firm FNZ on April 23.
Rebuilding French Supermarket Group Casino Hires Restructuring Lawyer as GC
Ubisoft, the video game company, has also appointed a replacement for its long-time chief legal officer.
BHP Group General Counsel Steps Down
Lyndon Arnall was appointed in 2020, but he declared on LinkedIn that April 30 would be his last day at the organization.
EY Turns to Veteran of NYC Office to Fill Global GC Post
Michael Solender, EY’s senior lawyer for a decade, is handing over legal responsibilities to top deputy David Weintraub.
Team Moves
Kirkland Targets Goodwin Again to Add More Funds Lawyers
Mirela Hristova, Michelle Kim, and Joseph Baron are among the firm’s most recent hires, overseen by partner James Donohue. All four will become partners at Kirkland.
18-Lawyer Team From Seyfarth Exiting for Immigration Boutique
Nearly 90 people, including lawyers and employees, could relocate from Seyfarth to BAL.
On The Move: Seyfarth Grows Corporate Group With BCLP Laterals
Meanwhile, Nelson Mullins has expanded its litigation practice with new partners in D.C. and Charlotte, and a former Kilpatrick associate has returned from a general counsel post.
Small Firm’s Full Roster of Attorneys Moves to Warshaw Burstein
Brady Klein & Weissman will continue to function as a limited liability partnership for fee collections, so the transfer is not a merger.
Insurance Team Leaves Clyde & Co in Latest Defection
Janette McLennan, an insurance partner at Clyde & Co, and her team are departing to join Sparke Helmore in Australia, this is the latest of several partner exits from the UK-based firm.
Paul Hastings Grabs Partner-Led Team From DLA Piper to Rebuild Restructuring Department in Paris
This year, the company expanded its European financial restructuring practice by adding many partners, including a new group co-chair.
In 10-Lawyer Move, Mintz Lures Proskauer Life Science Patent Chair and Team
Mintz is expanding its patent litigation bench in Los Angeles, Boston, and New York with a 10-lawyer team.
Promotions & Appointments:
People in the News—April 29, 2024—Faegre Drinker, Saxton & Stump
Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath has announced its 2024 leadership appointments, including Philadelphia-based partner Elizabeth K. Lange’s appointment as vice chair of Women’s Forward.
Bird & Bird appoints lawyers in global promotion round
Bird & Bird appoints 13 to Partner, 3 to Senior Counsel, 24 to Counsel, 1 to Legal Director and 1 to Of Counsel in annual global promotion round.
A&O Shearman Names UK and US Managing Partners
In the United Kingdom, Denise Gibson, an Allen & Overy partner, has been appointed managing partner. She serves as co-head of the global leveraged finance group and a partner in the London banking practice.
Newsmakers: Managing Shareholder Named to Chamberlain Hrdlicka’s San Antonio Office
Chamberlain Hrdlicka today announced that Jaime Vasquez has been designated managing shareholder of the firm’s San Antonio location.
After 2 Years of Increases, Partner Promotions Slowed at Texas Law Firms for 2024
The 25 companies with the most lawyers in Texas elevated 19.3% fewer lawyers to partner in 2024 compared to 2023.
Promotions Season Continues Apace as 4 UK Firms Bolster Ranks
Bird & Bird, Taylor Wessing, Kennedys, and DAC Beachcroft are the latest firms to announce their new partner cohorts.
DAC Beachcroft names Ronan McLoughlin as new Irish chief
Mr McLoughlin succeeds Lisa Broderick, who took over the top job in 2018, for an initial three-year term.
William Fry names nine new partners
The business has hired nine new partners in four departments: asset management and investment funds, litigation and investigations, real estate, and technology, as well as two new consultants and thirteen senior associates.
Mergers & Alliances:
Can Big Law Merge in Chicago Any More?
Willkie’s Craig Martin said that Chicago’s “diversity of business” is driving legal demand.
Harrisburg Boutiques Merge, Looking to Innovate on Work-Life Balance
SkarlatosZonarich and Mette, Evans & Woodside have merged to form a 25-lawyer firm known as Mette.
A&O Shearman Goes Live, With New Firm Naming Board and Practice Leaders
Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling have finalized their merger, with firm leadership boasting of a marriage that will result in a $3.5 billion multinational legal firm with over 4,000 lawyers, including 800 partners.
Smith, Gambrell & Russell Grows Real Estate, International Practices in New York
The Atlanta-based firm acquired two real estate attorneys and merged with a small practice that represents German corporations in the United States.
Connecticut’s Wiggin and Dana Absorbs Boca Raton Trusts and Estates Boutique
The combination with Ellis Law gives the firm, historically concentrated in the Northeast, a second office in Florida.
Office Openings & Closing:
Cravath Moves Into New Manhattan Headquarters
The firm, which signed a lease for the premises in 2019, announced on Monday that it had finished the transition.
Mayer Brown Set to Split With 170-Lawyer Greater China Offices
The firm’s Hong Kong office is one of the largest businesses conducted by an international legal firm, but it has been hampered by a market slump, data security concerns, and a political scandal.
White-Collar Boutique Launches in DC With Former SEC Official, Cranfill Sumner Partners
Christina Zaroulis Milnor, a former SEC official, will help start a new boutique in Washington, DC.
Blank Rome Recruits 25 Burns & Levinson Lawyers to Launch Boston Office
The hiring gives the Philadelphia-based firm its 16th location and a new cannabis practice.
Simpson Thacher Plans Boston Office, Hires Skadden Funds Partnerh
The New York legal practice is the third American legal 100 firm to announce a Boston location in the previous eight days.
Goodwin Enters Fresh London Digs, Complete with Dance Studio and Cathedral Views
The Boston-founded firm has moved into a new 90,000 square foot office in the heart of St Paul’s, in the latest London office move.
Eckert Seamans Products Liability Chair Exits to Open Bowman and Brooke’s Philadelphia Office
Partner Dennis Ziemba stated that “Certainly there is some crossover too from clients with Eckert, and also some clients of Bowman and Brooke I’m getting introduced to”.
Japan’s Atsumi & Sakai Launches 4th International Outfit in Brussels
The new office, run by lawyer Etsuko Kameoka, will specialize in European Union-related legal advice, particularly in competition law.
Clyde & Co Expands Saudi Presence With Jeddah Launch
The new office will be led by corporate and advisory partner Mohammed Almarzouki, who is a certified lawyer in Saudi Arabia, a trained solicitor in England and Wales, and an attorney in New York. He joined Clyde & Co in 2023 and has over a decade of experience assisting Saudi and multinational firms, as well as family businesses in Jeddah.
Cravath Moves Into New Manhattan Headquarters
The firm, which signed its lease for the space in 2019, said on Monday it completed the relocation.
Paul Weiss Launches Latin America Practice With Former Willkie Farr Partner at the Helm
Leticia Ossa Daza, a Colombian native who founded Willkie Farr’s Latin America practice, will now do the same for Paul Weiss as the American firm looks to expand in the region.
China Closures Continue as Sidley and Weil Winds Down Shanghai Offices
Sidley is shifting several of its lawyers, including two Shanghai partners, to its Beijing and Hong Kong offices, according to a lawyer at the US firm.
DLA Piper Opens Office in Brazil to Tap Cross-border Work
The São Paulo office will be overseen by a recent hire from Allen & Overy, with help from Brazilian lawyers headquartered in New York, as the company pursues more US-Brazil cross-border transactions.
Spanish Law Firm Uría Menéndez to Shutter Office in New York
The Spanish law firm’s Park Avenue office will close at the end of June, after 34 years in New York.
DLA Piper Loses Office in Colombia as Affiliate Firm Abandons Alliance
DLA Piper’s Colombia subsidiary has left the global law firm’s network, taking more than 120 lawyers with it.
Willkie Opens in Dallas With 3 Haynes and Boone Private Equity Partners
Willkie Farr & Gallagher, an Am Law 100 firm, has launched an office in Dallas that will be staffed initially by three private equity lawyers from Haynes and Boone, as well as four partners from Willkie’s Houston office, all of whom will keep offices in Dallas.
Herbert Smith Freehills launches global digital legal delivery practicej
The new practice will be overseen by Libby Jackson, the long-time head of HSF’s alternative legal services department, with assistance from recently appointed chief technology officer David Turner.
Financials:
Robinhood’s Steadying Force, Legal Chief Dan Gallagher, Saw Pay Seesaw Again in 2023
Gallagher’s 2023 income was 29% lower than the previous year, but 1,142% higher than the 2021 salary.
Alphabet’s Legal Chief Has Outearned Apple’s for First Time
Kent Walker, Alphabet’s legal chief, had his pay increase by 12% in 2023.
Freshfields ups junior lawyer pay
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has raised the salary for freshly qualified lawyers in London to £150,000.
Billing Rate Increases, Demand Gains Help Law Firms Double Their Revenue Growth in Q1
Wells Fargo stated that billing rate rise “continues to be the primary contributor to revenue growth,” with standard rates rising 9% in the first quarter of 2024.
Wachtell Star Received Record-Breaking Pay in First Year as Salesforce CLO
Sabastian Niles joined the CRM behemoth in July, leaving his position as one of the country’s leading legal consultants on M&A and shareholder activism.
Billing Rate Growth and Litigation Demand Drive Big Law Gains in Q1
Thomson Reuters’ Bill Josten noted that worked billing rates were up 6.4% in Q1, the highest quarter-over-quarter increase since at least the Great Recession.
Billing Rate Increases Boost Atlanta and Southeast Law Firms’ Financial Growth
Big law firm executives in the Southeast stated that they will raise charges by up to 7% in 2023 in response to rising costs for everything from salary to rent.
Technology & Innovation:
AI Will Ramp Up Intense Big Law Battle for Talent, Client Share
Law firm profit margins will fall because “AI disproportionately impacts non-partner hours,” which generate the highest margins, according to Law.com Pro Fellows research.
Brightflag Announces New Generative AI-Powered Features, Chatbot
The new capabilities, which are based on Brightflag’s decade-old AI models, are intended to provide a layer between the user and the invoice “Approve Button.”
What Law Students Should Know About Generative AI Before Their Summer Jobs
Begin familiarizing yourself with it right away so that you may not only meet your professional responsibilities but also distinguish yourself from others.
Coheso Launches AI-Powered Platform for In-House Legal Intake and Work Management
Coheso has announced the public launch of their generative AI-powered legal intake and work management platform, which will assist in-house legal and compliance teams in replacing generic tools with domain-specific solutions to accelerate processes.
Litera Announces Integration with Microsoft Copilot
Matt James, Litera’s vice president of sales advisors and engineering, told Legaltech News that the integration will be available when Microsoft launches its Copilot plugin for Word.
Contract Analysis Company eBrevia Launches Gen AI-Powered DraftPro Months After Co-Founders’ Buyback
Adam Nguyen and Jacob Mundt, co-founders of eBrevia, purchased the firm back from Donnelley Financial Solutions (DFIN) in December 2023, five years after they first sold it.
Ex-Virtual Firm Leader Joins Veteran Am Law 200 CFO to Launch Back-Office Support Venture#
Federate Legal’s founders want to serve both Big Law practitioners looking to start their own practices and established small and midsize firms.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Forging Forward: How Wellbeing Anchors the Heart of DEI Strategy
Lee Ashby Watts of Bass, Berry & Sims writes that “Neglecting wellbeing within DEI initiatives could undermine efforts to shape a positive firm culture”.
Chartwell Law Accused of Discrimination in Florida EEOC Complaints After Firing Two Muslim Lawyers
A partner and an associate, both stationed in Miami, claim they faced retaliation and eventually lost their positions after voicing concerns about how they were handled at the Philadelphia firm.
Gender Pay Gap Persists in Australian Law Firms, Survey Reveals
According to a poll conducted by the College of Law Australia, experienced female lawyers in Australia are paid approximately 25% less than their male counterparts.
Kennedys promotes more women than men to partnership for third year
Kennedys has announced that 17 partners, nine of whom are women, will join its partnership, raising the total number of partners worldwide to 349 as of May.
Market Commentary:
Fancy Offices Are a Big Gamble
Law firms are seeking to undermine the remote working narrative by focusing on ultra-modern real estate, but this does little to solve the culture issue.
Ranked: The Largest Law Firms Across the Middle East, 2024
According to Law.com International’s most recent annual ranking, the largest legal institutions operating in the Middle East are regional giant Al Tamimi & Co, as well as international law firms Clyde & Co, White & Case, and Allen & Overy.
36% of Lawyers Have a Drinking Problem: Attorney Mental Health in Focus
Attorney and mental health advocate L.A. Perkins of Perkins Law said, “I had a lot of lawyers reach out to me and share with me, in confidence, the struggles that they were going through”.
Letter From London: A&O Shearman—How To Know If It’s Working
Here are five things to look out for that will provide some insights into the merger’s performance before any obvious financial data emerge, according to Law.com. Paul Hodkinson, International Editor-in-Chief, contributes to this bimonthly column.
Geographic Expansion, Increased Competitiveness Underscore String of Law Firm Mergers
Law firm alliances, ranging from A&O Shearman to a succession of boutique acquisitions, are assisting firms in expanding into new sectors and increasing their market stature.
‘Our Strength Is Also Our Weakness’: Is It Better to Be a Specialist Firm or a Full-Service One?
Clients and attorneys alike may find it difficult to decide between a full-service firm and a specialist firm. The answer may depend on the types of clientele such organizations are looking to service.
What It’s Like Managing the Legal Expectations of 55 Countries
Hager Gueldich describes her function as the African Union’s legal counsel as that of a mediator, strategist, and, at times, negotiator at the crossroads of law and politics.
Columbia University Cancels University-Wide Commencement
According to a separate May 6 announcement regarding commencement, the university is focusing its resources on keeping the school ceremonies “safe, respectful and running smoothly.”
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Slaughter and May Makes Rare Hire with Freshfields Pensions Partner
Slaughter & May has made a remarkable hire, adding a longtime Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer partner to its pensions practice. Charles Magoffin, a partner with Freshfields since 2010, will join Slaughter and May as senior counsel in September, according to the firm’s statement.
Former Clifford Chance arbitration head departs for Twenty Essex
Audley Sheppard, who joined Coward Chance in 1986 prior to the merger that established Clifford Chance, will begin his new role in June after serving as a consultant at the firm for the previous year.
Goodwin swoops on Travers for London private equity partner duo
Ian Keefe and George Weavil, both Travers lifetime members who became partners in 2018, bring substantial experience in pan-European and international private equity and M&A transactions to Goodwin’s London office.
Powderly Solicitors recruits criminal defence lawyer Eoghan O’Sullivan as partner
Powderly Solicitors LLP in Co Kildare has appointed Eoghan O’Sullivan as a partner with expertise in criminal defence and childcare law.
EMEA
Herbert Smith, Norton Rose and CDH Make Key Hires to South Africa Offices
Norton Rose has appointed Gillian Lumb as a director on its national employment and labour unit in Cape Town. A director is equivalent to a partner in Norton Rose Africa.
HFW Hits Eversheds Paris for 2-Partner-Led Arbitration Team
HFW welcomes new partners Julien Fouret and Gaëlle Le Quillec, as well as senior associate Camille Dupuy.
Longtime Paris-Based McDermott Partner Joins Rimon in Texas
Nicolas Lafont, the latest Rimon lateral hire to cite the firm’s rate flexibility as a key reason for his move, said, “Texas is the place to be”.
Claus Zimmermann, an international trade specialist, has joined Ashurst as a partner in Brussels to oversee the firm’s European Union and international trade litigation, policy, and regulatory practices.
APAC
Jones Day Adds Banking Partner Duo in Australia
Alastair Gourlay, a Banking and Finance partner, has left Baker McKenzie to join Jones Day’s Sydney office.
Herbert Smith Freehills Adds Third Partner to Bangkok Bench
Pariyapol Kamolsilp has joined the UK firm from Thailand’s local practice, Kudun & Partners.
JSA Makes 2nd Partner Hire In A Week As Disputes Lawyer Returns
J. Sagar Associates, an Indian law practice, has added their second partner in a week, after welcoming back disputes expert Harshavardhan Abburi to Hyderabad. He becomes the firm’s sole partner stationed in the southern city.
Sam Picks Up Cam Capital Markets Partner In Mumbai
Indian law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co has added their second capital markets partner in 2024 with the hiring of partner Rohit Tiwari from rival Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas in Mumbai.
The Americas
Paul Hastings Lands Co-Leader of Sidley’s PE Practice in 2-Partner Move
Alexander Temel’s clients include Goldman Sachs and Sixth Street Partners, among others. Also, William Schwab, a partner at Sidley, has joined Temel.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner Hires New CFO From Perkins Coie
Trevor Varnes is BCLP’s most recent hire in Seattle.
People in the News—April 23, 2024—Marshall Dennehey, Capehart Scatchard
Marshall Dennehey announced that Christopher S. Devlin has joined the firms ranks as director of professional development and training.
Sidley has appointed John Godfrey as a partner in its Global M&A and private equity department. He was previously with Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison. Proskauer has appointed Christiana ‘Christi’ Lazo as a partner in its private client services division. She was previously at Kirkland and Ellis.
People in the News—April 24, 2024—King Spry, Chamberlain Hrdlicka
Shorav Kaushik and Joseph Kemmerling joined Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul.
Shutts & Bowen Scoops Up Former Fox Rothschild Trademark Leader
Patricia Flanagan is the second lateral partner to depart Fox Rothschild’s West Palm Beach office this month.
People in the News—April 25, 2024—Panitch Schwarze, Barley Snyder
Panitch Schwarze Belisario & Nadel, an intellectual property law firm, has announced the appointment of Fang Liu as a partner.
Amid Week of Departures, Perkins Coie Picks Up GC as IP Partner
Zach Hong came to Perkins’ New York office from Cleerly, a digital health care firm.
On the Move and After Hours: NJOPD; Peckar Abramson; Bernstein DePhillips; CSG Law
Peckar & Abramson has named Mark A. Rosen a senior partner in the firm’s New Jersey and New York offices.
People in the News—April 26, 2024—Antheil Maslow, Ballard Spahr
Antheil Maslow & MacMinn has announced the addition of Stephen M. Zaffuto to its business and finance and real estate practice divisions.
Midsize Moves: Finn Dixon Hires Cleary Gottlieb Partner, Cotchett Pitre Scoops Hagens Berman Partner
Finn Dixon & Herling reported that Zachary J. Moore has joined the firm as a partner in its investment management practice, while Thomas Loeser has recently joined Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy as partner.
In-House
Etsy Welcomed Aboard Ex-Facebook GC Colin Stretch With Baskets of Stock
Stretch joined the e-commerce company as chief legal officer in February 2023, his first in-house position since serving as the social media company’s general counsel from 2013 to 2019.
Dutch Grocery Giant Hires CLO for Sprawling US Empire
Kim Lyda will take over legal operations at Ahold Delhaize USA, which operates over 2,000 grocery stores under brands such as Food Lion, Giant Food, and Stop & Shop.
Sony Pictures Entertainment Hires Disney Lawyer as General Counsel
CEO Tony Vinciquerra asserted that Jill Ratner will “help us meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry landscape and to capitalize on opportunities for growth.”
Veteran Entertainment Lawyer Takes Over Reins as GC of Canadian Media Company WildBrain
Mark Trachuk, who has over 35 years of expertise, replaces James Bishop in the position.
Haleon General Counsel Joins Saudi Aramco
Aramco’s new hire Bjarne Philip Tellmann earned GC of the Year at the 2017 British Legal Awards, bringing top-tier experience from pharmaceutical giant GSK and Pearson.
Teletubbies-owner WildBrain appoints media veteran as next GC
WildBrain, a Canadian children’s and family entertainment firm, has hired Mark Trachuk as general counsel, succeeding James Bishop, who resigned earlier this month.
Energy transition tech specialist ENODA hires first general counsel
Aniela Foster-Turner has been named the first general counsel for ENODA, an energy technology company.
Capstone Green Energy names legal chief amid post-bankruptcy rebuilding efforts
Capstone Green Energy, a US cleantech company, has hired Mark Funaki as general counsel as it looks to strengthen itself after emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy procedures late last year.
Team Moves
Greenberg Traurig Adds Partner-Led Corporate Trio in Milan
Eriprando Guerritore, an expert in fund formation and investment management, has joined Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria alongside associates Ruggero Maria Zanolini and Claudio Saba from Italian legal firm Gatti Pavesi Bianchi Ludovici.
Charles Russell Speechlys Takes Hong Kong Quartet From Soon-To-Close KPMG Affiliate
Shirley Fu, the founder and managing partner of SF Lawyers, will lead a team of three other lawyers in Hong Kong.
Baker McKenzie Hires Bulk of US Firm’s Corporate Department in ‘Transformational Hire’
Nine partners and 17 attorneys will make the shift, assisting Baker McKenzie in meeting its aim of becoming a full-service firm in Los Angeles.
Poland’s LSW Brings On 8 Partners in Push to Expand Corporate Capabilities
A team of 15 partners, associates, and business professionals has joined LSW at a time when the Polish market is seeing an increase in international investment.
Promotions & Appointments:
Morris James Associate Appointed to Delaware Combined Campaign for Justice Committee
Alyssa Meldrum, a Morris James colleague, has been selected to the Delaware Combined Campaign for Justice (CCJ) committee in 2024.
Meet CT’s New Honorary Consul to Finland, Robinson & Cole’s Patrick Trostle
Patrick J. Trostle, a partner at Robinson & Cole, has been appointed Honorary Consul to the Republic of Finland for the State of Connecticut. His role will be to promote and facilitate commercial and diplomatic contacts between Finnish and Connecticut-based firms.
DLA Piper unveils 63-strong partner promotion round
The reduced cohort takes the corporation closer to its objective of 30% female partnership by 2025.
Ashurst unveils another record promotions round as 30 make partner
Ashurst has promoted 30 attorneys to partner in its most recent promotions round, making it the third year in a row that the Anglo Australian company has achieved a record amount.
Two new partners at DLA Piper Ireland
Global law firm DLA Piper has promoted Dublin lawyers William Marshall and Darach Connolly to partner.
Caldwell & Robinson promotes Jade O’Kane to partner
Caldwell & Robinson Solicitors has promoted Jade O’Kane to partner in the firm’s private client group.
Mergers & Alliances:
Smith Gambrell Sees Revenues Grow, Profits Fall Amid 2023 Merger
Managing partner Stephen Forte said “We viewed ’23 as an important investment year for us to bring more scale for us and to be present in one of the major markets in a bigger way”.
Kirkland & Ellis and Latham & Watkins have joined Thoma Bravo’s £4.3 billion acquisition of U.K. cyber security business Darktrace, in the latest example of U.S. private equity firms acquiring U.K. plcs.
Office Openings & Closing:
There’s Something in the Water: San Diego Is Once Again a Hot Market for National Law Firms
In the last ten years, San Diego has attracted corporate legal firms as diverse as London powerhouse Eversheds Sutherland, Los Angeles-based Manatt Phelps & Phillips, and Glaser Weil, as well as national companies Polsinelli, Greenberg Traurig, Quarles & Brady, Fennemore & Craig, and others.
Stradley Ronon Launches First West Coast Office With Securities Litigation Team
The Pennsylvania-based company has hired ten attorneys, including five partners, from the litigation boutique Keesal, Young & Logan.
Longtime Litigation Law Firm Closes as Partners Head to Separate Practices
Mabry & McClelland have defended clients in a number of high-profile personal injury lawsuits in recent years.
The legal arm of the Big Four company intends to increase or triple its size in Australia within a few years, according to Deloitte Legal’s Asia Pacific and Australia chief.
Quinn Emanuel Formalizes Saudi Presence
Major legal firms have been attracted by the ‘magnetic pull’ of Saudi economic growth.
Maples Group Relocates to Neuroinclusive London Office
The Maples Group, a market-leading provider of legal, fiduciary, and fund services, has relocated its London office to 280 Bishopsgate, a freshly rebuilt, cutting-edge building with the best environmental and welfare ratings. The move underlines the Group’s commitment to assisting its clients and employees in a changing environment, as well as its outstanding performance in the UK market.
Japan’s TMI Establishes 2nd Malaysia Alliance, Sets Up New Office
TMI Associates, a major Japanese law company, has formed an association with Malaysian law firm SY Teo & Co, which was established by Sze Yi Teo, an associate in TMI’s Singapore office. The alliance will also open an office in Kuala Lumpur under the name SY Teo & Co, in collaboration with TMI Associates.
Financials:
All 3 Florida-Rooted Am Law 100 Firms Report Revenue Gains Amid Transactional Lag
Holland & Knight earned the greatest success as a result of their combination with Waller Lansden in early 2023. Meanwhile, Greenberg Traurig made more moderate increases than last year, maintaining its position in the rankings, while Akerman lost staff and slid several spots.
Brownstein, Akin See Record Q1 Lobbying Revenue Amid Influx of Business
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck & Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld each claimed their best first quarter on record.
A Tight Economy Increased Costs and Hindered Productivity for Pennsylvania’s Am Law 100
According to an examination of Am Law 100 revenue and net income numbers, eight Pennsylvania firms’ total costs outpaced revenue growth by 0.5% to 4.6%.
As They Plan Expansion, Most of Big Law in Missouri Grew Revenue and Profits Last Year
The majority of the nine Am Law 200 companies in the Show Me State increased its revenue, RPL, and average profits per equity partner.
2 Spanish Firms Break €90M in 2023 Global Revenue
Through its partnership with Taylor Wessing, ECIJA secured major clients such as Spotify and Amazon.
Flurry of Law Firms Sign New Client Lobbying Relationships as Big Law Reports Millions in Q1 Revenue
Brownstein Hyatt, Akin, K&L Gates, Holland & Knight, Covington and Hogan Lovells all reported new lobbying client relationships in recent weeks.
Revenue Up 3.5%, PEP Grew 10.4% at Hunton Andrews As Demand Revved Up Last Fall
The firm’s financial indicators improved in 2023, as demand across a variety of practices increased throughout the latter part of the fiscal year.
Comcast Legal Chief Breaks Into the $10M Pay Club
Reid, Comcast’s top legal officer and secretary, received $11.2 million last year, according to the company’s proxy statement filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday.
Technology & Innovation:
How AI Boosts Law Firm Profitability and Expands Market Opportunities
By streamlining a variety of procedures ranging from case intake to litigation support, AI not only reduces the strain of legal practitioners but also improves their capacity to serve clients efficiently.
AI Patent Unicorn Patsnap’s GC Discusses AI Regulation, Helping Startups Grow Sustainably, and More
Legaltech News spoke with Eric Topel, Patsnap’s first general counsel, on what the next several months would be like as he prepares for compliance with the EU AI Act and other impending AI regulations.
How Lowenstein Sandler Developed a Client-Facing Gen AI Chatbot
Lowenstein Sandler’s chief marketing officer, Kevin Iredell, believes that client-facing chatbots will eventually replace the law firm’s website search box.
LexisNexis Announces Gen AI-Powered Corporate Research Capabilities Nexis+AI
Nexis+AI is now in commercial preview with a handful of corporations, with a broader release scheduled for later this year.
Will the FTC Noncompete Ban Mean a Major Shift for Legal Tech?
Many in legal IT are divided on whether the FTC’s restriction on non-competes will result in significant improvements in hiring and talent acquisition or fall short.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Eversheds Elevates a Record 40 to Partner with Women Making up 60%
It goes against the flow of this year’s marketing in the City of London.
Kleinbard Cleared Of Wrongdoing In Pennsylvania Diversity Contracting Tiff
Female-owned Griesing Mazzeo Law had accused the firm of shorting it on fees after duping it into serving as a small diverse business subcontractor. A Pennsylvania federal judge dismissed the suit Thursday.
Stewarts’ partner count nears treble figures as firm promotes six
Stewarts has promoted six attorneys to partner, including five women, capping a year of growth for the specialty disputes company.
Market Commentary:
Most Big Chicago Law Firms Grew in 2023, but Several Not as Fast as Am Law 100
Six of the nine Chicago-based Am Law 100 law firms experienced slower revenue growth than the 100 as a whole. However, the majority of Chicago organizations either maintained or improved their positions in the most recent rankings.
How GCs Can Fix Firms That Are Too Risk-Averse or Too Willing to Go for Broke
Theresa Shea, general counsel of Utz Brands said “There are times you have to say, ‘You can’t do this.’ But that can’t be every time,”.
This City Is Competing With New York as an International Arbitration Hub
Winston & Strawn, Reed Smith, and White & Case are among the companies looking to expand in this field.
Switching Practice Areas: A Challenge or a Treasure?
Change is unavoidable, particularly for young lawyers seeking advancement and opportunities within their existing careers. Young lawyers frequently explore changing practice areas for a variety of reasons. As with every modest or significant change, there are both dangers and benefits.
Are Chinese Firms Sidelining Big Law on Hong Kong Listings Work?
Greater China-based law firms serve as the sole legal consultants to issuers in many Hong Kong Stock Exchange IPOs. Big Law cannot compete on fees with Chinese firms and justify the modest profits associated with the listings, which are significantly smaller than the billion-dollar transactions they handled in the past.
‘We See Them as Future Partners’: Simmons Launches Associate Council for ‘Next Gen’ Leaders
The council, which includes a ‘rigorous’ selection procedure and video applications, will provide strategic counsel to the company’s executive committee.
Caribbean Energy Needs Are on the Rise, and Plenty of That Work is Headed For U.S. Law Firms
Following a quiet spell in the Caribbean due to COVID-19 and supply chain issues, lawyers are beginning to witness an increase in work from the region, notably in the energy industry.
As Equity Tiers Shrink, Big Law Grows Leverage
Overall, in 2023, Am Law 100 firms grew their leverage. The statistic, defined as total lawyers (excluding equity partners) divided by the number of equity partners, is frequently used to help law firms evaluate their equity partner ratio as their head count and partnerships develop.
Moves:
UK & Ireland
Allen & Overy Hits Milbank Again for London Partner Hire
Karen McMaster, a restructuring partner, has joined the firm, which plans to formally merge with Shearman & Sterling in May.
Dentons welcomes new partner to London Litigation & Arbitration team
Alex McGregor, a highly accomplished ESG litigation and regulatory lawyer, has joined Dentons’ Disputes team in London. Alex joins the firm as a partner from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP in the UK, having begun his legal career in Australia.
DAC Beachcroft bolsters its team in Dublin
Seamus White, a legal director, has joined the Injury Risk team; Lisa Kelly and Feena Robinson, senior associates, have joined the Specialist Insurance team; and Sinead Morgan, legal director, has joined the Employment Team.
Gibson Dunn unveils hire of Linklaters’ former leveraged finance co-head in London
Gibson Dunn has announced the employment of former Linklaters partner David Irvine in London to co-chair its global finance practice.
EMEA
Merger-Bound Shearman Loses Paris Tax lawyers to McDermott
McDermott announced that its Paris tax practice now employs ten attorneys, including four partners, one counsel, and five associates.
EU Competition Boutique Hires Veteran Litigator to Open Paris Office
Geradin Partners, which opened offices in Brussels in 2015, London in 2021, and Amsterdam in 2023, continues its European development with the opening of its Paris office today, thanks to the hiring of former EU official and competition lawyer Marc Barennes and his team.
Fieldfisher raids SKW Schwarz to boost media and entertainment practice in Germany
Martin Diesbach, Elisabeth Noltenius, and Julia Schafdecker, media and entertainment partners at SKW Schwarz, will join Fieldfisher’s Berlin office, as will a four-person IP team managed by partner Sascha Pres and IP litigators Christina Kufer, Tien Nguyen, and Laura Krug.
APAC
Deloitte Hires Former DLA Piper Partner Melinda Upton in Australia
Melinda Upton, an intellectual property lawyer, has joined Deloitte’s Australian legal team as a partner.
Troy Doyle is departing, citing customer needs for real flexible pricing structures and experienced partner engagement in restructuring cases.
Divest Patel, a former partner in Johnson Winter Slattery’s private equity and M&A practice divisions, holds dual qualifications in Australia and South Africa.
Clyde & Co Australia Departures Continue as 3 Partners Leave for Kennedys
Nicole Wearne, Ganga Narayanan, and Mark Attard, insurance partners, are the latest prominent lawyers to quit Clyde & Co.
Allen & Overy Hires Technology Duo to Bolster Asia Pacific Offering
Ravi de Fonseka and Daniel Thompson have joined from Australian business Johnson Winter Slattery.
Latham, Norton Rose Add Partners in Tokyo, Singapore
Yohei Nakagawa and Beelee Seah, who were both made partners last year, are leaving Morrison Foerster and Baker McKenzie, respectively.
The Americas
Littler Lures Toronto Partner From Ogletree Deakins as Part of Canadian Expansion
Stephen Shore stated that the global labour and employment giant’s drive towards expansion was one of the factors that drew him to the company.
Orrick Lures Kramer Levin’s Life Sciences Practice Head
Alyssa Caridis, co-head of Orrick’s IP business unit, about Irena Royzman noted “We see her as another game-changing addition to our growing national team handling cutting-edge cases,”.
Liberty McAteer has returned as a partner at Moses & Singer’s intellectual property, AI, and data law divisions, while John M. Nolan III has joined Margolis Edelstein’s employment practices liability group.
People in the News—April 15, 2024—Lamb McErlane, Burns White
Lamb McErlane has announced the addition of Curtis L. Sebastian to its municipal law department.
Weil Adds Simpson Thacher Infrastructure Partner in Houston
Jacqui Bogucki, an infrastructure partner from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, has joined Weil, Gotshal & Manges as a partner in Houston as the firm expands its energy and infrastructure practice.
On the Move: Thompson Coburn Enters Southeast With Birmingham Office Launch
Thompson Coburn expanded its higher education business with four lateral additions, including the construction of a new office in Birmingham, Alabama. The presence of partners Tres Cleveland, Brandt Hill, and Evan Moltz in Birmingham, as well as Roger Swartzwelder in Washington, D.C., has prompted widespread coverage by legal media organizations.
Lowenstein Sandler Adds Bankruptcy Vet from Loeb & Loeb
Daniel Besikof worked as the deputy chairman of Loeb & Loeb’s bankruptcy group.
After Less Than a Year at Simpson Thacher, 2 Partners Head to Latham
Tracey Zaccone and Justin Rosenberg joined Simpson from Paul Weiss last year.
Lewis Brisbois Adds New Partner in Delaware
Ann Kashishian joined Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith’s Wilmington office as a partner in the firm’s complicated business and commercial litigation, bankruptcy, and insolvency areas.
People in the News—April 16, 2024—Eisenberg Rothweiler, Stradley Ronon
Eisenberg, Rothweiler, Winkler, Eisenberg & Jeck announced the recent hiring of Stephan A. Cornell as an attorney in Philadelphia.
Goodwin Continues Recruiting From Cooley, Adding Longtime Tech Industry Litigator
Over the years, Patrick Gunn’s clients have included Zoom and eBay, as well as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and Oracle founder Larry Ellison.
2 More Morrison Cohen Partners Exit for Loeb & Loeb
Partners Michael Weinstein and Joshua Saidlower will join former colleague Stephen Budow, a founding member of midsize firm Morrison Cohen and chair emeritus of the corporate department, as well as partners Andy Arsiotis, Michael Barry, Matt Friedman, Mike Martell, Steven Rockoff, and Henry Zangara.
Top State Insurance Regulator Joins Alston in New York
Mona Bhalla led a 130-person agency tasked with overseeing New York’s life insurance market.
Tarter Krinsky Continues Hiring From Shuttered Ingram Yuzek
Tarter Krinsky hired nine lawyers from the recently closed New York law firm Ingram Yuzek.
Chasan Lamparello hires three new education attorneys and Genova Burns elevates one of its partners.
Midsize Moves: Saxton & Stump Adds Clement Rivers Partner, Barley Snyder Hires ERISA Counsel
Saxton & Stump reported that Jason A. Daigle has joined the company as an equity stakeholder, working out of the Charleston, South Carolina office. Barley Snyder stated that attorney Karen E. Toth has recently joined the firm in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Dentons Loses Corporate Practice Head in Montreal to Miller Thomson
Seon Kang has joined the national Canadian corporation after more than 20 years at the multinational conglomerate.
The end of an era as HSF’s arbitration head Paula Hodges bows out
After 16 years in the top spot, Hodges will hand reins to new practice co-heads, reports Ben Rigby
In-House
Longtime Mary Kay Legal Chief Julia Simon Joins Top Texas Litigation Firm
“If I wanted to stay in-house, I would have stayed at Mary Kay. What I wanted was a different challenge,” Mary Kay’s retired legal chief Julia Simon told Law.com on her return to private practice in April. “The idea of bringing my broad knowledge and skills back to private practice and to a top tier trial firm was compelling.”
Legal Ops Director Jenn McCarron Exits Netflix
Jenn McCarron wrote “If I sound defiant, it’s because I am,”. “I cannot and will not accept the status quo. The stakes are too high, and our industry will get left behind if we do.”
Patent Data Unicorn Names First GC, Hiring From Another AI-Driven Unicorn
Eric Topel joined Patsnap this month from Nevada’s Socure. The Singapore-based startup raised $300 million from an investment group that includes Japan’s SoftBank, with a valuation of more than $1 billion in 2021.
Founding GC of Animal Health Giant Zoetis Steps Down
Heidi Chen worked at Pfizer for 13 years before helping to spin off the company’s animal-health business as a standalone public company in 2012 and becoming its first legal head.
Orthofix names CLO replacement following trio of executive dismissals last year
Andres Cedron arrives from Stryker Corporation to replace departed legal chief Patrick Keran.
Team Moves
3 Partners on Crowell & Moring’s GM Team Move to Morgan Lewis
April Nelson Ross and Rachel Raphael are located in Washington, D.C., while Mohamed Awan resides in Chicago.
Gaining Steam in Los Angeles, Shook Hires Litigation Group From Carlton Fields
Four litigation partners from Los Angeles, Atlanta, and South Florida have joined Shook, Hardy & Bacon.
Tarter Krinsky Continues Hiring From Shuttered Ingram Yuzek
Tarter Krinsky hired nine lawyers from the recently closed New York law firm Ingram Yuzek.
Baker McKenzie Adds Leading Energy Litigation Team in Texas
Baker McKenzie, a global legal practice, has announced the addition of highly acclaimed litigators David Baay, Jack Massey, Kelsey Machado, Ian Shelton, and Matthew (Matt) Rawlinson to its Houston team.
Chasan Lamparello Mallon & Cappuzzo has added three attorneys to its education practice group: Dennis McKeever, Marcie Mackolin, and Jaclyn Morgese. The attorneys join the firm from Cornell, Merlino & Osborne, where they practiced school law and served as board of education counsel.
Promotions & Appointments:
New York Community Bancorp Taps Skadden Partner as GC Amid Financial Turmoil
Bao Nguyen succeeds Patrick Quinn, who joined NYCB in 1999 and had been general counsel for the previous two years.
Orthofix Replaces Legal Chief Fired for ‘Offensive Conduct’
Andres Cedron said “This is an exciting time for the company, and I look forward to helping Orthofix become an even stronger competitor in the market,”.
People in the News—April 17, 2024—Klehr Harrison, McAndrews Mehalick
Klehr Harrison Harvey Branzburg stated that Lisa Lori, a partner in the firm’s litigation department, has been named Marywood University’s next president.
People in the News—April 18, 2024—Feldman Shepherd, Strassburger McKenna
Feldman Shepherd Wohlgelernter Tanner Weinstock Dodig, a Philadelphia personal injury and class action law firm, has announced the addition of attorney George A. Donnelly to its team.
Freshfields Promotes 23 to Global Partnership
The latest round represents a tiny dip from the firm’s highest promotion round last year, when it elevated 30 lawyers to partnership.
A&O Shearman Names Middle East Managing Partner
Following Garousha’s recent election as senior partner of the newly amalgamated firm, A&O partner David Foster will take over the job.
Argentina’s Beccar Varela Appoints New Managing Partner
Maximiliano D’Auro takes over as the firm celebrates its 127th anniversary, succeeding a managing partner who had headed the huge Argentine firm for more than 20 years.
CMS makes up 54 in latest partner promotions round
CMS has promoted 54 partners in its most recent promotions round, which includes 10 across the UK.
Herbert Smith Freehills promotes four
Herbert Smith Freehills has added Murphy Mok in Hong Kong, Emily Fox in Paris, Marco de Sousa in New York, and Matthew Shelley in Brisbane to its partnership.
Mergers & Alliances:
Ellingboe, who oversaw Faegre Baker Daniels’ corporate litigation division prior to its 2020 merger with Drinker Biddle & Reath, stated that the virtual environment allowed attorneys to meet and communicate, which likely resulted in greater cross-office collaboration.
Where Do the Most Merger-Hungry Law Firms Get Their Appetite?
Fennemore Craig and Clark Hill have dominated the law firm merger scene in the past year.
Lawyers See Positive Outlook for Mergers & Acquisitions in Australia
They will encounter additional challenges, as Australian regulators, like those in many other nations and areas throughout the world, tighten their examination of M&A transactions.
Crowell Builds in Chicago, Luring Neal Gerber Corporate and Securities Leaders
Following its merger with a Chicago-based intellectual property boutique in 2021, the firm is currently expanding its corporate practice.
Troutman Pepper and Locke Lord in Merger Talks to Create New Am Law 50 Law Firm
The merger would result in a firm with almost 1,600 lawyers, propelling it squarely into the Am Law 50.
Skadden, Slaughter and May lead on International Paper’s £5.8bn DS Smith acquisition
Skadden is assisting longtime client International Paper on its £5.8 billion recommended bid for FTSE 100 UK packaging company DS Smith, which is represented by Slaughter and May.
Office Openings & Closing:
Pullman & Comley Celebrates Expansion of Westport Office
One of the state’s largest firms has expanded its base in Westport to better serve clients in lower Fairfield County.
White & Case Expands Miami Office, Doubling Down On Market’s Long-Term Growth
The New York-based firm, which added another level to its long-term home in the Southeast Financial Center, has followed Greenberg Traurig in renewing office contracts.
Greenberg Traurig Becomes Fully Incorporated in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Greenberg Traurig, LLP, a global law company, is now fully incorporated as a Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) law firm after receiving all essential government licenses.
Mid-Market Roundup: Growing Midsize Firms Take More Space and Find Talent in Boutiques
One of Connecticut’s top law firms doubled its size, while five partners from a now-defunct boutique joined New York’s Warshaw Burstein.
Six CMS Partners in Chile Exit to Form Own Firm, With Associates in Tow
A/C/R Legal will focus on transactional work, such as mergers and acquisitions, as well as supporting startups and handling highly complicated litigation and collective bargaining agreements.
Financials:
Twilio GC Sees Pay Drop 73% in 2023
Twilio’s chief legal officer Dana Wagner is no longer one of the highest-compensated general counsel, as his stock award shrank by more than $20 million in 2023.
Hinshaw, After Lateral Hires and Combination, Grows Revenue and Profits Double Digits
Firm chair Peter Sullivan reported that the average PEP shot up more than 34%, as retirements and the progression of some lateral partners through a contract stage had some effect.
Norton Rose Fulbright Grew Revenue 8% Amid Management Exits
According to U.S. managing partner Jeff Cody, demand for the worldwide legal firm’s platform has increased.
The 2024 Am Law 100: Ranked by Profits Per Lawyer
Profits per lawyer is an alternate approach of looking at firm profitability that aims to remove the impact of issues like indebtedness. The average is around $518,000, with the top of the list being around $3.04 million.
The 2024 Am Law 100: Ranked by Profits Per Equity Partner
In 2023, the Am Law 100’s average PEP increased by 9.3%. Thirty-seven enterprises experienced at least 10% growth, up from 14 last year. Twenty enterprises saw reductions in 2023.
The 2024 Am Law 100: Ranked by Gross Revenue
Fifty-four companies reported gross revenue of $1 billion or more in 2023, four more than in 2022. Ninety enterprises reported increases in gross revenue.
Netflix CLO’s Pay Hits Record, but Big Changes Loom
A redesigned executive pay program went into effect on January 1, linking pay more closely to performance. Executives will no longer be able to pick how much of their compensation comes in the form of a wage.
Technology & Innovation:
Law Firm Leaders Say Gen AI Can Level Playing Field Between Large and Smaller Firms
John Polson of Fisher & Phillips said that “[Generative AI] does help the smaller firm punch above its weight on projects and matters that require a lot of people,”.
We’re Entering the Golden Age of Legal Technology
Technological skills, such as the ability to automate procedures and use artificial intelligence to get more insight into data, are being introduced to the legal industry at an unprecedented rate.
Thomson Reuters Expands CoCounsel to All Business Segments, Adds New Gen AI Legal Capabilities
In addition to providing three new talents for legal and tax professionals in the United States and the United Kingdom, Thomson Reuters announced ambitions to expand the CoCounsel generative AI assistant across all professional lines it covers, including risk, fraud, and media.
AI-Generated Works Dilemma: Balancing AI Terms of Service With Contractual Obligations
Artificial intelligence, like any other developing technology, is fraught with legal difficulties. These legal issues may not provide appealing entertainment, but they are critical in influencing the use and potential of AI.
BT Group offers automatic panel spot to firm that makes best use of AI
BT Group has reduced its legal panel from 15 to 11 companies and declared that the panel firm that best utilizes AI and legal technology would receive an automatic spot when the roster is next evaluated.
Diversity & Inclusion:
People in the News—April 19, 2024—McMonagle Perri, Klasko
On April 1, McMonagle Perri McHugh Mischak Davis’ partner Charles M. Gibbs held a virtual town hall with Philadelphia Councilman Kenyatta Johnson.
Nearly 14% of ABA-Accredited US Law Schools Haven’t Had a Woman Dean
A 2021 Villanova Law Review paper said, “despite these very real barriers, women should not be discouraged from contemplating becoming a dean,”.
South Korea’s legal profession lags on gender equality, IBA report finds
Only 29% of all lawyers in South Korea are female, and women hold only 13% of senior positions in legal firms.
Freshfields beats gender target for fourth year in a row in latest partner promotion round
The 52% female promotions represent the fourth consecutive year that the Magic Circle firm has exceeded its diversity target of at least 40% new partners being women. This indicates a significant shift from 2020, when only four (19%) of the 21-person cohort were female.
McCann FitzGerald backs women in finance initiative
McCann FitzGerald LLP has signed Ireland’s Women in Finance Charter, an industry-led and government-backed initiative aiming at expanding women’s participation at all levels of the Irish financial services industry.
Market Commentary:
Can You Be a Diligent Parent And an Equity Partner?
The Global Lawyer: Gender diversity progress at the equity partnership level has stalled, and long-term goals are failing—most likely due to systemic discrimination against primary careers.
Indonesia’s M&A and Project Finance Market Expected to Take Off in 2024
The results of the country’s presidential election in February have restored investor confidence in Southeast Asia’s largest economy, and multinational law firms are bracing for a surge in Indonesia-related work.
In another big deal this week, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer led Johnson & Johnson’s $13.1 billion acquisition of Shockwave Medical (represented by Fenwick & West), while Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett assisted Blackstone Real Estate Partners X in its $10 billion acquisition of Apartment Income REIT Corp (represented by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom).
vLex Expands Vincent AI With Document Analyze, Launches Law Firm AI Co-Development Lab
vLex announced the launch of Document Analyze, a suite of generative artificial intelligence-powered tools for responding to litigation and transactional documents, as well as vLex Labs, an initiative in which the company will collaborate with leading global law firms to develop custom AI products.
Susman Godfrey Jumps to Am Law 100 Ranking, Joining 5 Other Homegrown Texas Firms
Four of the six native Texas firms reported better income in 2023 than the previous year, propelling them up the Am Law 100 ranks.
Weil Revises Partner Pay Criteria, as Firm Plots Leadership Succession
Barry Wolf has overseen the firm since 2009 and will reach the obligatory retirement age of 68 in the next four years.
Several DC Law Firms Rose in Latest Am Law 100 Ranking
While three D.C. companies fell in the Am Law 100 rankings, six rose and three remained.
Law Firms Seek Out ‘Money-Generating’ Partner Moves Amid Big Law’s Arms Race
Even while partner movements were down year on year, Decipher said that law firms last year discovered one of the quickest ways to grow: purchasing partners with books of business.
Mason Hayes & Curran wins three IP awards
The team was named Ireland Trademark Prosecution Firm of the Year, Ireland Copyright Firm of the Year, and Ireland IP Transactions & Advisory Firm of the Year, after being shortlisted in five of six categories.
Eversheds Sutherland are Recognized at the Real Deals Private Equity Awards 2024
This year marks the 23rd annual Real Deals Private Equity Awards which are the longest running and most prestigious private equity awards in Europe. The awards celebrate excellence in European private equity and recognizes and rewards those who have made an outstanding contribution to the industry.
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