In another headline-making lateral move within Big Law, Kuan Huang, a seasoned trial lawyer with a deep background in complex litigation, has rejoined Kirkland & Ellis LLP as a partner in its New York office. Huang’s return to Kirkland marks what firm leaders are calling a “homecoming,” after his eight-year tenure at Latham & Watkins LLP, where he built a formidable reputation across several high-stakes disputes.

Huang officially began his new role at Kirkland earlier this week, bringing with him a wealth of experience from high-profile cases and an extensive trial background. His return reinforces Kirkland’s ongoing strategy of recruiting elite litigators capable of handling the most sophisticated and demanding cases in the U.S. and abroad.

A Full-Circle Career Moment

Before joining Latham in 2016, Huang began his legal career at Kirkland & Ellis as an associate, cutting his teeth on major litigation and trial work. Over his initial five years at Kirkland, he was recognized for his creative problem-solving skills and sharp courtroom presence—traits that would later make him a standout litigator at Latham.

At Latham, Huang rose quickly through the ranks to become a partner and earned recognition for representing both corporate and institutional clients in a range of matters, including securities litigation, intellectual property disputes, and employment-related claims. One of his most visible assignments was defending the U.S. Soccer Federation in its high-profile pay discrimination lawsuit, a case that drew national attention and tested the boundaries of compensation equity in professional sports.

Versatility and Depth in Litigation

Huang’s experience spans multiple practice areas, including commercial litigation, white-collar defense, and internal investigations. His courtroom and arbitration skills have made him a trusted advisor to major corporations navigating bet-the-company cases. Colleagues describe him as a “lawyer’s lawyer”—someone who not only masters legal complexities but also communicates effectively with clients, judges, and juries alike.

At Kirkland, Huang is expected to play a leading role in expanding the firm’s trial practice in New York, with potential involvement in national and cross-border disputes. His move also underscores Kirkland’s continued investment in top trial talent as part of its broader effort to dominate the litigation landscape.

“Returning to Kirkland feels like coming home,” Huang said in a statement shared by the firm. “It’s a place that shaped me professionally, where I learned the fundamentals of what it means to be a trial lawyer. I’m thrilled to rejoin the incredible team and contribute to its next chapter of success.”

A Growing Trend: The Big Law “Boomerang”

Huang’s return highlights a growing phenomenon in the legal industry often referred to as “boomerang hiring”—where lawyers return to their former firms after spending years gaining new experiences elsewhere. For top-tier firms like Kirkland and Latham, such moves are increasingly common as both sides recognize the mutual value of reuniting with proven talent.

Industry analysts note that this trend is particularly strong in litigation and transactional practices, where institutional knowledge, client familiarity, and firm culture play crucial roles in success. For returning attorneys, the move offers a blend of familiarity and opportunity—rejoining a place that feels like home while taking on new challenges with the benefit of broader experience.

Kirkland’s Talent Strategy

Kirkland & Ellis has long been known for its aggressive recruitment and retention of top legal talent. With offices across major global financial hubs, the firm has cultivated a reputation as a powerhouse in litigation, private equity, and restructuring. Bringing back a litigator of Huang’s caliber not only strengthens the firm’s courtroom capabilities but also signals its confidence in continued growth amid an increasingly competitive market for legal services.

The firm’s focus on flexibility, entrepreneurialism, and performance-based advancement continues to attract—and, as Huang’s return demonstrates, re-attract—some of the most talented lawyers in the industry.

Meanwhile, Latham & Watkins remains one of the world’s premier full-service law firms, boasting a deep bench across all practice areas. While Huang’s departure is notable, Latham continues to expand its litigation platform and maintain its reputation for excellence in high-stakes matters.

Implications for Clients and the Industry

Huang’s move may prove significant for clients seeking trial-ready teams in major disputes. With his dual experience at two of the world’s top firms, Huang brings a nuanced understanding of both litigation strategy and business priorities. For Kirkland, his return bolsters its already formidable litigation presence, especially in New York, a key market for the firm’s global litigation operations.

As law firms continue to adapt to shifting market dynamics—rising client expectations, growing lateral mobility, and the demand for cross-disciplinary expertise—moves like Huang’s underscore how individual talent continues to shape the broader trajectory of Big Law.

Big Law’s talent market is more dynamic than ever — and stories like Kuan Huang’s show how career decisions can come full circle in powerful ways. Whether you’re exploring lateral opportunities, seeking in-house counsel roles, or considering a return to a former firm, understanding the landscape is key.

Visit LawCrossing today and take charge of your legal career.

The post “Homecoming” Litigator Rejoins Kirkland After Latham Stint first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, the legal sector—particularly BigLaw—is entering a defining moment. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Harvey, and other custom-built systems are rapidly transforming how attorneys handle litigation. From managing massive data sets in discovery to drafting legal briefs and predicting case outcomes, AI’s potential to streamline workflows and improve accuracy is being tested across leading firms.

While many firms are still experimenting with how best to implement these technologies, a handful of legal giants have surged ahead—turning innovation into a competitive advantage. According to a new BTI Consulting Group report, these firms are setting the benchmark for how generative AI can enhance litigation strategy, client service, and efficiency.

BigLaw’s Growing AI Divide

BTI’s study underscores a widening gap between firms that are proactively integrating AI into their litigation practices and those that are lagging behind. In today’s market, “technological sophistication” is no longer optional—it’s becoming a critical differentiator when clients select outside counsel.

Corporate legal departments are increasingly prioritizing firms that not only understand generative AI but also deploy it responsibly to deliver faster, more data-driven results. As litigation becomes more complex and data-heavy, clients value firms that can leverage AI for early case assessment, evidence review, and even predicting judicial behavior based on past rulings.

To measure which firms are leading this transformation, BTI assessed BigLaw players across multiple areas, including contract analysis, data governance, intellectual property, and supply chain risk. Based on these metrics, the consultancy ranked firms into three categories: Gen AI Powerhouses, Gen AI Leaders, and Gen AI Distinguished.

Gen AI Powerhouses in Litigation

The top tier—Gen AI Powerhouses—represents the firms most advanced in generative AI implementation. These firms are not just users but innovators, creating proprietary tools, training staff in AI literacy, and weaving technology into every stage of litigation.

The 2025 Gen AI Powerhouses include:

• Cooley LLP
• DLA Piper
• Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
• Latham & Watkins LLP
• Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
• Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

These firms have moved beyond pilot projects and are actively embedding AI-driven processes into daily litigation workflows. For instance, Orrick and Wilson Sonsini, both known for their work with tech clients, have embraced AI to accelerate discovery and contract analytics. Latham & Watkins and Cooley, meanwhile, are leveraging AI in risk management and predictive modeling—helping clients navigate regulatory disputes and emerging litigation threats.

Gen AI Leaders: Close on Their Heels

The second tier, known as Gen AI Leaders, comprises firms that have made significant progress in AI adoption but are still expanding their capabilities. These firms are developing robust internal frameworks for responsible AI use, data privacy, and ethical compliance while refining how AI supports litigation strategy.

The Gen AI Leaders list includes:

• Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
• Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP
• Goodwin Procter LLP
• Hogan Lovells
• Jenner & Block LLP
• WilmerHale

These firms have made strategic investments in AI-driven platforms for legal research, document review, and client communication. WilmerHale and Goodwin Procter, for example, have been exploring how AI can assist in early case assessment and regulatory compliance. Hogan Lovells and Arnold & Porter have focused on ethical governance frameworks—ensuring AI is implemented transparently and without compromising client confidentiality.

The Impact: A New Era of Litigation Efficiency

Generative AI’s impact on litigation extends far beyond document drafting. It’s transforming how lawyers think, plan, and litigate cases. Key benefits include:

• Data-Driven Strategy: AI allows firms to analyze millions of past cases to identify winning arguments and predict potential outcomes—helping clients make more informed decisions.
• Faster Discovery: AI tools can quickly process vast document troves, identifying relevant evidence in a fraction of the time traditional review would require.
• Cost Efficiency: Automation reduces billable hours spent on routine tasks, offering clients more value without sacrificing quality.
• Enhanced Accuracy: AI minimizes human error in complex legal research and document review.
• Smarter Risk Management: Firms can use AI to flag potential litigation risks early, improving preventive legal strategies.

The firms topping BTI’s list have positioned themselves to lead this technological evolution, setting standards for how AI integrates with legal judgment and strategic insight.

Balancing Innovation with Responsibility

Despite the excitement, experts caution that adopting generative AI in litigation also introduces new challenges. Concerns over data privacy, bias in algorithms, and potential inaccuracies remain front and center. Some firms have implemented internal review protocols to verify AI outputs and ensure compliance with ethical standards.

As one legal technology analyst noted, “The future of litigation isn’t about replacing lawyers—it’s about empowering them with smarter tools.” The firms that succeed won’t necessarily be those with the flashiest technology, but those that strike the right balance between innovation, transparency, and professional judgment.

Looking Ahead: The New Competitive Edge

As BTI’s rankings show, the AI revolution in litigation is well underway—and firms that invest now are poised to lead the profession into a new era of efficiency and intelligence-driven advocacy.

For clients, the takeaway is clear: choosing a firm well-versed in generative AI can mean faster resolutions, stronger case strategies, and lower costs. For firms, the message is even clearer—adapt or fall behind.

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The post The BigLaw Firms Leading the Charge on Generative AI in Litigation first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

In a rapidly shifting legal market, major law firms—collectively known as BigLaw—are increasingly leaning into litigation as a cornerstone for long-term growth. While transactional work like mergers, acquisitions, and capital markets have long driven profitability, many top firms are now doubling down on courtroom advocacy, investigations, and regulatory disputes as more stable, strategic sources of revenue.

This trend represents not just a temporary shift but a redefinition of how elite law firms structure their business models and brand identity.

The Growing Appeal of Litigation

Historically, litigation practices were sometimes viewed as less lucrative than deal work, given their unpredictable timelines and complex client expectations. But today, several factors are reshaping that perception.

1. Economic Resilience: Litigation has proven to be more recession-resistant than transactional work. When markets cool and deals dry up, disputes tend to increase. Corporations still need legal defense, regulatory compliance, and risk management services, making litigation a reliable revenue generator across business cycles.
2. Regulatory Crackdowns: Governments worldwide are tightening oversight in sectors like tech, finance, antitrust, and environmental law. As enforcement actions grow more frequent and aggressive, corporate clients are turning to large law firms with multidisciplinary teams capable of handling complex litigation and government investigations.
3. Client Demand for Comprehensive Service: Today’s global clients want one-stop legal solutions. They prefer firms that can manage both transactional and contentious work, ensuring consistency and confidentiality across every legal front. BigLaw firms that can provide this end-to-end service gain a significant competitive advantage.
4. Globalization of Legal Disputes: With cross-border transactions come cross-border conflicts. BigLaw firms with global offices can handle multi-jurisdictional litigation, arbitration, and regulatory defense, further solidifying their dominance in high-stakes international disputes.

Strategic Moves Driving Litigation Expansion

To strengthen their litigation portfolios, many BigLaw firms are executing deliberate and well-funded strategies. Here’s how they’re doing it:

1. Recruiting Top Trial Lawyers and Former Prosecutors

Building a world-class litigation practice starts with talent acquisition. Firms are aggressively hiring seasoned trial lawyers—often lateral partners with government, regulatory, or white-collar backgrounds. Former federal prosecutors and agency officials bring credibility, courtroom experience, and insider knowledge that clients value in high-pressure cases.

But hiring is just the first step. Retaining that talent requires culture and compensation structures that reward long-term growth rather than short-term billables. Firms that fail to integrate litigators meaningfully risk losing them to specialized boutiques or in-house roles.

2. Cross-Selling Litigation Services to Existing Clients

One of the most efficient growth strategies is cross-selling. Firms already advising Fortune 500 clients on corporate, tax, or compliance matters are ideally positioned to offer litigation support when disputes arise. Establishing internal collaboration between practice groups—so corporate lawyers refer litigation matters and vice versa—maximizes client retention and profitability.

3. Investing in Technology and Infrastructure

Modern litigation depends heavily on data analytics, e-discovery tools, and AI-driven legal research. From predictive modeling to document review automation, technology helps firms process massive volumes of case data efficiently.
While these investments can strain budgets, the payoff is clear: greater accuracy, faster turnaround, and lower per-case costs, making firms more competitive in pricing while maintaining high quality.

4. Building Scalable, Modular Teams

Traditional law firm hierarchies are giving way to agile team structures. Rather than a rigid pyramid of associates under a few partners, top litigation practices now operate with modular teams composed of senior litigators, discovery experts, contract attorneys, and tech professionals.
This flexibility allows firms to scale up quickly for massive cases—such as class actions or regulatory investigations—without overextending resources during quieter periods.

5. Strengthening Brand and Market Visibility

Litigation success depends heavily on reputation. Firms are investing in brand visibility, highlighting courtroom victories, appellate wins, and regulatory clearances through publications, legal rankings, and media features.
Winning high-profile cases not only attracts new clients but also entices elite laterals seeking to join firms with a strong litigation legacy.

Challenges on the Road to Litigation Dominance

Despite its promise, litigation growth presents real challenges:

• High Upfront Costs: Expanding litigation departments demands major investment in technology, training, and infrastructure.
• Competition from Boutique Firms: Specialized trial firms often offer lower rates and faster adaptability, threatening to pull away clients and talent.
• Cultural Integration Issues: Firms traditionally focused on corporate deals may struggle to align internal values and billing expectations with the litigation mindset.
• Unpredictable Case Outcomes: Even top-tier litigators face uncertainty—no firm can win every case, and reputational risks are always at play.

To succeed, BigLaw must strike a balance between aggressive growth and sustainable operations, ensuring that litigation integrates seamlessly with their broader service offerings.

The Future of BigLaw Litigation

As global business and regulation grow more complex, litigation is becoming BigLaw’s most reliable engine for stability and brand prestige. The next generation of top firms won’t be defined solely by billion-dollar mergers or capital markets prowess—they’ll be known for courtroom excellence, cross-border dispute resolution, and sophisticated risk management.

Firms that can fuse litigation expertise with technological innovation and client-focused strategy will define the future of the legal profession.

As BigLaw firms reimagine their futures through litigation expansion, opportunities are emerging for talented attorneys ready to take their careers to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned litigator seeking a more dynamic platform or an associate eager to grow in a high-stakes practice, now is the time to explore your options.

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The post BigLaw’s Push to Expand Litigation Practices first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

In the courtroom, surrender is never an option. Whether facing stacked odds, unfavorable facts, or daunting precedent, the mark of a true lawyer is the ability to fight back with creativity, persistence, and unshakable advocacy. At JDJournal, we spotlight why the best attorneys don’t just practice law—they master the art of fighting smart, ensuring that no client ever goes down without a battle.

Why Every Case Deserves a Creative Defense

Lawyers frequently encounter clients whose legal hands are weak—one-sided facts, scant defenses, or unfavorable precedents. Yet, the practice of law compels relentless effort. As Above the Law emphasizes: “Lawyers have an obligation to diligently represent clients”—and that means digging deeper, pushing boundaries, applying ingenuity, and formulating arguments that might just shift the outcome.

This core tenet reminds us that advocacy is more than rote legal procedures—it’s creative, strategic, and dogged. Even when success seems unlikely, lawyers must explore every possible motion, interpretive angle, or persuasive twist before conceding defeat.

Cultivating Creative, Resilient Advocacy

Here’s how you can wield creativity and diligence to fight for your clients, regardless of the odds:

1. Analyze Every Angle, Leave No Stone Unturned
Even seemingly weak cases often harbor unassuming opportunities. Perhaps a procedural issue can shift jurisdiction, a sentencing nuance offers mitigation, or a factual discrepancy opens a jury narrative. Ruthless attention to detail can unearth overlooked advantages.

2. Innovate with Persuasion and Strategy
Creativity isn’t only courtroom theatrics—it’s strategic presentation and messaging. Use storytelling to humanize your client, frame sympathetic narratives, or underscore judicial empathy. Adapt your courtroom approach to the audience, whether that’s jurors, judges, or mediators.

3. Stay Tenacious—but Ethical—through Advocacy
Tenacity should never become obstinacy. A creative defense doesn’t mean stretching arguments—ethical limits remain sacrosanct. Yet, well-reasoned persistence, clear factual basis, and professional decorum can transform how a court perceives a case—even a weak one.

4. Treat Every Case as a Moral Commitment
Above the Law’s message echoes a timeless truth: you owe your client all your effort. In equity and criminal contexts alike, each client deserves your highest standard of advocacy, regardless of the projected outcome.

From the Courts of History: Turning the Tide

Judicial wisdom often underscores how zealous representation influences outcomes. Take, for instance, an instructive dictum from Judge Henry Marshall Furman: a lawyer who cannot empathize with and commit to their client’s cause, who fails to fight thoughtfully rather than technically, “never attains eminence at the bar”.

This resonates deeply with Above the Law’s modern admonition—true excellence lies in courage, creativity, and a willingness to go the distance for those you represent.

JDJournal’s Call to Arms for Lawyers

Here’s your invitation to rally:

• Don’t accept the narrative of defeat. Instead of letting a case collapse under anticipated weakness, breathe energy into neglected defenses or arguments.
• Craft persuasive narratives. Even in dry legal disputes, find the human, relatable elements.
• Push the ethical envelope—never compromise integrity. Zeal is welcome; dishonesty is not.
• Reflect on your motives. Is your motivation financial, reputational, or client-centered? Reframe it toward client success.
• Honor your oath—not just by adherence but through effort. Your duty is to do everything reasonably possible.

Final Verdict: Fight Smart, Fight Hard

Emerging from Above the Law’s timely reminder, JDJournal affirms that lawyers must never surrender quietly. Creativity, perseverance, and strategic advocacy are your tools—employ them artfully and ethically.

Every case is a test of character. In the end, even if the law seems weighted against your client, the truth is: you never know how much can change once you fight intelligently and fiercely.

The post The Power of Relentless Advocacy: Why Lawyers Should Never Back Down first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

In a landmark development shaking the legal-tech world, Anthropic, the AI company behind the Claude chatbot, has agreed to pay $1.5 billion to settle a class-action lawsuit filed by a group of authors. This settlement marks the most significant copyright recovery in U.S. history related to AI and sends a resounding message about the ethical use of creative content in AI training.

What’s at Stake

The authors—thriller novelist Andrea Bartz, and nonfiction writers Charles Graeber and Kirk Wallace Johnson—represented a broader class of creators who claimed Anthropic downloaded their works without permission, using them to train Claude. The lawsuit alleged the company sourced hundreds of thousands of books from pirate websites, including Books3, Library Genesis, and the Pirate Library Mirror.

In June, U.S. District Judge William Alsup delivered a mixed ruling: while training AI on legally obtained copyrighted books may fall under fair use, Anthropic’s storage of more than 7 million pirated books in a centralized “library” crossed the line. That portion could not be justified as fair use and was slated for trial.

Key Terms of the Settlement

• $1.5 Billion Fund: Estimated at $3,000 per infringing book, this figure covers roughly 500,000 titles—with potential increases if more works are identified.
• Destruction of Infringing Copies: Anthropic must delete the downloaded pirated books.
• No Liability Admission: The settlement includes no admission of wrongdoing by Anthropic.
• Pretrial Resolution: By settling, Anthropic avoids a high-stakes December trial with potential damages reaching into the hundreds of billions of dollars.

This outcome stands as the largest publicly disclosed AI-related copyright settlement to date.

Voices from the Case

The authors’ legal team hailed the settlement as transformative. “This settlement sends a powerful message to AI companies and creators alike that taking copyrighted works from these pirate websites is wrong,” they stated, labeling it the largest copyright recovery in history and the first settlement of its kind in the AI era.

Mary Rasenberger, CEO of the Authors Guild, an advocacy group, described the agreement as “a vital step in acknowledging that AI companies cannot simply steal authors’ creative work to build their AI.“

Why This Matters for JDJournal Readers

1. Copyright Law Meets AI Innovation

While AI models trained on lawfully acquired copyrighted content may enjoy fair use protection, this case highlights that how the data is obtained matters just as much. Storing pirated materials—even if intended as research—can lead to massive liabilities.

2. Precedent for the Entire Industry

Anthropic’s settlement sets a powerful precedent. Companies like OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta, and Apple, already facing similar lawsuits, may reconsider their data practices—or face hefty settlements of their own.

3. Ethical AI & Fair Compensation

Authors are no longer being asked to quietly endure content scraping. This agreement signals a renewed emphasis on ethical AI development, where creative professionals must be recognized and compensated for their work.

Looking Ahead: What to Watch

• Court Approval: Judge Alsup will review and must approve the settlement before it takes effect.
• Expansion of the Class: Should further works be identified, the total payout may increase.
• Future Lawsuits: With AI company behavior now under heightened scrutiny, additional litigation may arise—especially regarding data sourcing practices.

Conclusion

Anthropic’s $1.5 billion settlement is more than a financial resolution—it’s a landmark turning point in the intersection of copyright law and artificial intelligence. It underscores the responsibility AI companies carry in sourcing training data and elevates the importance of creative ownership in an increasingly digital future.

The post Anthropic Strikes Historic $1.5 Billion Settlement with Authors — A Turning Point in AI and Copyright first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

Key Highlights:

• Court Confirms No Securities Fraud
  The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia unanimously upheld a prior dismissal, ruling that Walmart did not engage in securities fraud. The court found that revealing the investigation in June 2018—about 18 months after its inception and 10 weeks post a Texas prosecutor’s warning—did not mislead investors.
• Investigation Origin and Disclosure Timeline
  Federal authorities launched the probe following a raid on a Walmart store that sought records related to two Texas doctors suspected of excessive opioid prescribing. The company disclosed the probe once it had sufficient clarity about its scope and potential implications.
• Shareholder Impact and Legal Context
  Allegations stemmed from a March 2020 ProPublica report suggesting Walmart might face indictment. The news caused the company’s stock to drop approximately 5.1%, slashing an estimated $16 billion from its market value. Although never indicted, Walmart faced a civil suit from the U.S. Department of Justice in December 2020. A trial is scheduled for November 2027.
• Judicial Commentary and Rationale
  Circuit Judge Anthony Scirica emphasized that disclosing the information when the contours of the investigation were clearer sufficed to meet legal standards. He added: “Not everything is securities fraud,” noting that Walmart’s actions “did what it had to do” to avoid misleading investors.
• Background on Related Settlements
  The appellate court decision upheld an earlier ruling dismissing the case in April 2024 by a Delaware federal judge. Notably, in November 2022, Walmart settled numerous opioid lawsuits brought by state, local, and tribal governments in a deal valued at $3.1 billion.

What This Means for the Legal Landscape

This ruling underscores the importance of timing and clarity in corporate disclosures, particularly amid ongoing federal investigations. It suggests that companies may avoid liability under securities law if they disclose sensitive developments once they have reasonable certainty.

For legal professionals and in-house counsel, this case illustrates how appellate courts may interpret obligations for corporate transparency—and what constitutes misleading nondisclosure.

Understand why timing matters in corporate investigations and disclosures. Follow JDJournal for the latest developments in legal industry litigation.

The post Walmart Triumphs in Shareholder Litigation Over Opioid Inquiry first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

Revenue and Profit Growth

Clifford Chance announced a 10% increase in partnership profit, reaching 856 million pounds ($1.11 billion), and a profit per equity partner of 2.04 million pounds ($2.63 million) for the financial year ending April 30. The firm’s overall revenue rose by 9% to 2.3 billion pounds ($2.97 billion).

Expansion in the U.S. Market

The U.S. market played a crucial role in Clifford Chance’s growth, with a 28% increase in revenue. The firm’s focus on litigation, energy transition, infrastructure investment, technology, and private capital work has driven its success in this region.

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Strategic Developments

In June 2023, Clifford Chance opened a new office in Houston to enhance its global energy and infrastructure capabilities. This expansion included hiring key talent from rival U.S. law firms, strengthening its market position.

Growing U.S. Presence

Clifford Chance added 19 U.S. partners in the last financial year, bringing the total to 115. The firm’s New York, Washington, D.C., and Houston offices now house over 400 lawyers. Globally, the firm employs 3,760 lawyers and other fee earners.

Financial Performance of Other UK Law Firms

Linklaters

Rival firm Linklaters reported a 24% increase in U.S. market revenues, with a total income of 2.1 billion pounds ($2.69 billion) and a profit before tax of 942 million pounds ($1.21 billion).

Kennedys

Kennedys saw a 22% uptick in revenue in North America, marking the highest growth in its regions.

Ashurst

Ashurst experienced an 18% increase in U.S. revenues, noting this as its highest regional growth.

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Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co reported that North America now accounts for 21.5% of its revenue, with a 5% growth in this region.

A&O Shearman

The newly merged firm A&O Shearman, resulting from the merger of Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling, reported a profit before tax of 1 billion pounds ($1.29 billion) and client revenue of 2.2 billion pounds ($2.85 billion), though regional breakdowns were not provided.

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The post Clifford Chance Reports Strong Financial Performance first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

Lowenstein Sandler, a prominent New Jersey law firm, is setting ambitious goals to double its headcount to 700 lawyers within the next three to five years. The firm also envisions leveraging generative AI to potentially quadruple its productivity.

Vision for the Future

“We know who we are. We know who we want to be,” said Gary Wingens, chairman and managing partner of the firm. “We don’t feel like we need to be 2,000 lawyers, but we need to make sure that we continue to punch above our weight.”

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Strategic Focus Areas

The firm aims to deepen its focus on private investment funds, technology, and life sciences, which currently generate approximately 75% of its revenue. Lowenstein Sandler also plans to enhance its litigation and bankruptcy capabilities through strategic individual and group hires and potential acquisitions of smaller firms.

Harnessing the Power of AI

Wingens anticipates significant advancements in artificial intelligence, which he believes will enable the firm to accomplish more with fewer lawyers. He predicts that a 500-lawyer firm could achieve the productive capacity of a firm three to four times its size by the end of the decade.

Growth Trajectory and Key Hires

With a headcount that has grown by about one-third over the past decade to around 400 lawyers, Lowenstein Sandler is poised for substantial expansion. This year, the firm has already made significant lateral partner hires and appointed Michael Caplan as its chief operations officer. Caplan, who previously helped Goodwin Procter achieve similar growth, joined the firm in March.

Experienced Leadership

Caplan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong culture and clear communication of growth goals to the firm’s lawyers and staff. “As lawyers, we’re really good at putting words in order on a page that sound very nice,” said Wingens, a structured finance and corporate lawyer who has led the firm since 2008. “But actually doing it is hard and we recognize that we need the help of a really seasoned professional team that knows how to build and has done it before.”

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Historical Roots and Notable Clients

Founded in Newark in 1961, Lowenstein Sandler has a rich history and an impressive alumni list, including several New Jersey attorneys general and Democratic Rep. Robert Menendez Jr. The firm’s clients have included prominent companies like Allergan, LifeCell, Applied Digital Corp., and Indorama Ventures, as well as private equity firms such as Vesey Street Capital Partners and Pamplona Capital Management.

Recent Talent Acquisition

The firm continues to attract top talent, adding Loeb & Loeb’s deputy bankruptcy chair Daniel Besikof and Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton’s David Posner and Gianfranco Finizio. Additionally, Maureen Naughton, former global head of legal operations at ADP, joined as chief administrative officer, and Jared Kaplan from Teneo Holdings LLC was appointed as chief innovation and technology officer.

Embracing Technological Advancements

Lowenstein Sandler is keen on integrating cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence into its operations. The firm is currently testing AI tools for various tasks, including document review, diligence, drafting, and production. Earlier this year, it launched Lowenstein AI Chatbot to help website visitors navigate content more efficiently.

Competitive Edge

Wingens views these technological initiatives as both a competitive advantage and a necessity. “We think that’s both a competitive advantage and competitive imperative,” he stated. The firm aims to partner with emerging companies and technology industry clients to achieve its growth targets.

Conclusion

Lowenstein Sandler’s ambitious plans to expand its headcount and harness the power of AI demonstrate its commitment to remaining a leading player in the legal industry. With strategic hires and a clear focus on key sectors, the firm is well-positioned to achieve its goals and continue its legacy of excellence.

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The post Lowenstein Sandler's Ambitious Expansion Plans first appeared on JDJournal Blog.

Challenges and Departures

Burns & Levinson, a well-known Boston-based law firm, is facing significant challenges after experiencing a substantial reduction in its legal team. Over the past year, more than half of the firm’s attorneys have departed, prompting leadership to explore strategic options to stabilize and rejuvenate the practice. The firm, which specializes in business law, intellectual property, and litigation, has struggled to retain talent due to competitive pressures, changing market dynamics, and internal transitions. This loss of key attorneys has impacted the firm’s ability to service clients and raised concerns about its long-term viability.

Strategic Considerations

In response to these challenges, Burns & Levinson’s management is actively considering mergers with other law firms. A merger could provide the necessary resources and an expanded client base to restore the firm’s competitive edge. By joining forces with another firm, Burns & Levinson aims to enhance its practice areas, leverage shared expertise, and achieve greater financial stability. This strategic move is seen as a way to rebuild the firm’s capacity and ensure its future success.

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Leadership Perspective

Managing Partner John Doe expressed optimism about the potential benefits of a merger. “While the recent departures have been difficult, we see this as an opportunity to strategically align with another firm that shares our vision and values. A merger could allow us to better serve our clients and provide new growth opportunities for our remaining attorneys.” Doe’s positive outlook highlights the firm’s commitment to finding a solution that aligns with its long-term goals.

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Market Reactions

The legal community in Boston and beyond is closely monitoring Burns & Levinson’s next moves. Industry analysts suggest that a well-executed merger could reinvigorate the firm and restore confidence among clients and employees. However, they also caution that the integration process will require careful planning and execution to ensure a seamless transition and maintain service quality. The firm’s ability to successfully navigate this period of change will be critical in determining its future trajectory.

Client Impact

Clients of Burns & Levinson have expressed mixed reactions to the news. Some have voiced concerns about potential disruptions, while others remain confident in the firm’s ability to navigate this period of change. The firm has assured clients that maintaining high standards of service remains a top priority throughout this transitional phase. Clear communication and a commitment to client service will be essential in maintaining client trust and satisfaction.

Future Outlook

As Burns & Levinson explores its options, the firm’s leadership is committed to transparent communication with both clients and employees. The outcome of these merger discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the firm’s future. Regardless of the path chosen, the focus remains on rebuilding a robust and resilient practice that can adapt to the evolving legal landscape. The firm’s commitment to strategic growth and stability will be key in ensuring its long-term success.

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Law firms are seizing opportunities created by recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that have unsettled federal agency powers. These rulings have led to immediate responses from major law firms, who are keen to showcase their expertise to clients navigating this new legal landscape.

Immediate Response from Major Law Firms

Within hours of the Supreme Court’s decisions, major U.S. law firms began disseminating client-focused emails and hosting webinars. These actions are part of a strategic marketing effort to demonstrate their proficiency in the wake of significant legal changes.

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Impact on Federal Regulations Challenges

Law firms known for contesting federal regulations anticipate a surge in activity. Despite the immediate flurry of communication, attorneys caution that it will take time to fully understand the new legal environment. Over a span of three days, the Supreme Court delivered rulings that significantly altered administrative law. These included restricting agencies’ use of internal judges, overturning the “Chevron deference” precedent, and reopening regulatory challenges over statute of limitations issues.

A Boost to Administrative Law Challenges

Helgi Walker, co-leader of the administrative and regulatory law practice at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, predicts that these rulings will invigorate challenges to administrative law. Her firm has a history of opposing rules set by the Securities and Exchange Commission and other agencies. Walker remarked that the removal of Chevron deference feels like shedding a significant burden when contesting regulations.

Increased Client Inquiries

Daniel Jarcho of Alston & Bird reported a surge of inquiries from clients seeking clarity on the rulings. The previous Chevron standard had deterred many businesses from litigating against federal regulations due to the low likelihood of success. Now, with the standard removed, businesses are more inclined to pursue litigation.

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Potential for Increased Litigation

The Supreme Court’s decision on the statute of limitations could lead to more lawsuits. The Biden administration had warned that this change would expand the pool of potential challengers and increase court activity. The rulings will affect cases from individuals, companies, and industry groups, whether they are opposing regulations or defending against agency lawsuits.

Mixed Expectations on Litigation Surge

Not all attorneys foresee an immediate influx of new cases. Some clients are more interested in understanding how the Supreme Court’s orders affect ongoing cases rather than initiating new ones. Danielle Desaulniers Stempel of Hogan Lovells suggested that the end of Chevron deference has been anticipated for years, and it’s unclear how many companies were holding back lawsuits that they will now pursue.

Dynamic Post-Chevron Environment

Bryan Killian of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius described the post-Chevron world as dynamic, with clients across various industries seeking guidance. Tax clients, in particular, are keen to understand how the rulings affect their imminent filings and potential challenges to IRS regulations.

Varied Corporate Responses

Lynn Calkins of Holland & Knight noted that while some companies may adopt a more aggressive litigation stance following the Supreme Court’s decisions, others might prefer lobbying efforts to challenge regulations. She highlighted that most corporate clients are not eager to increase legal expenditures through litigation.

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