This is the latest update on lateral partner and counsel moves in the Washington, D.C. area. The data included in these reports is primarily derived from Firm Prospects LLC. For more details and analysis, including a list of laterals for the month, please contact Steve Nelson.
Lateral hiring in DC held relatively steady in November, as 46 partner and counsel moves were reported, down from 48 in September. There were 55 moves reported in November 2024.
However, the big news was a dramatic decline in hiring from the government, as six such hires were reported, compared to a year-high 17 in October. This was most likely due to the fact that firms are being cautious about hiring, both do to year-end considerations and uncertainty as to the direction of the Trump Administration. At the same time, firms are experiencing an explosion of candidates looking to leave government.
On the other hand, 11 lawyers entered D.C. firms from in-house positions, up from 4 in October.
Only one group move was reported in November, a two-partner Telecommunications Litigation group that joined Wiley Rein from Carlton Fields. Other firms reporting multiple hires included:
- Crowell & Moring
- Dechert
- Gordon & Rees
- Holland & Knight
- Seyfarth Shaw
- Simpson Thacher & Bartlett
Eighteen of the movers (39.1 percent) were women, with 8 (44.4 percent) entering as partners. That compared to 20 of the 28 men (71.4 percent) who joined their new firms as partners.
Litigation was the leading practice area represented, with 7 moves. Other active practice areas included Energy (6), International Trade (4), Antitrust (3), Banking/Finance (3), and Corporate (3).
With the election behind us, the political landscape is about to shift significantly. Many lobbyists will transition into new roles. Some will be tapped for positions in the incoming administration or will take on leadership roles in Congress, leaving key vacancies behind.
Are you prepared for this rapid transition?
The McCormick’s Group’s Government Affairs team can help. We bring extensive experience and a deep network and are uniquely positioned to help you secure top talent in this highly competitive environment.
If you are interested in expanding or strengthening your team, please contact David Ris.
