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 December, as 44 partner and counsel moves were reported, down from 46 in November. There were 33 moves reported in December 2024.
Also holding steady was government hiring, as nine such hires were reported, compared to six in November after a year-high 17 in October.
There were three group moves reported in December. The largest was a three-partner, two-counsel Intellectual Property Group that left Weil, Gotshal & Manges for Paul Weiss. Other groups included the two partners from the now-disbanded McKool Law Firm that joined McGuireWoods, and two Trusts & Estates partners who left Stein, Sperling, Bennett De Jong Driscoll in Rockville, MD for the DC office of Fisher Broyles. Other firms reporting multiple hires included:
- ArentFox Schiff
- Kirkland & Ellis
- Steptoe
- Winston & Strawn
Sixteen of the movers (36.3 percent) were women, with 10 (62.5 percent) entering as partners. That compared to 19 of the 28 men (67.9 percent) who joined their new firms as partners.
Litigation and Intellectual Property were the leading practice areas represented, with 7 moves apiece. Other active practice areas included Antitrust (6), Energy (5), White-Collar/Investigations (3), and Government Relations (3).
With the new administration beginning to take shape, the political landscape already is shifting 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 Dave Ris.
