In the aftermath of a severe terror attack by Hamas in Israel, members of the international Biglaw community have rallied together to provide support and aid. A standout example of this collective initiative is one of the giants in the law industry, Kirkland & Ellis, who not only made significant financial contributions but also played a crucial role in safely extricating one of its partners along with other firm lawyers from the crisis-stricken region.
Based in New York City, Kirkland’s partner Daniel Wolf found himself amid the chaos during a visit to his family in Israel. On the day of the attack, the siren warning of an imminent missile strike found Wolf at the doorstep of a synagogue in Jerusalem. For the next three days, Wolf and his family endured repeated missile strikes while sheltered inside their safe room, their anxiety palpable with each successive bombardment. In an interview with Bloomberg Law, Wolf likened the ordeal to a “slow-motion horror movie”.
Fortunately, Wolf’s story has a positive conclusion – he, his family and about 20 other individuals, including other firm lawyers and their families, were successfully evacuated. Wolf attributes the successful evacuation to Kirkland’s swift and robust response. The firm promptly mobilized all available resources to ensure their safe exit and were in constant touch offering support and guidance.
In addition to their logistic support, the firm’s team also worked tirelessly through the night making certain their rescue flights departed as planned. With Kirkland’s efforts, Wolf and his immediate family are safely back home in New York City, although he notes other family members and friends are still in Israel.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Wolf finds solace and a welcome distraction in work. While the situation in Israel remains grim, stories such as Wolf’s underscore the importance of unity and support in times of crises for the legal community at large. Our thoughts are with Daniel Wolf, his family, and all those affected by the ongoing conflict.
For those wishing to extend a helping hand, please consider making a donation or standing with Israel and supporting your Jewish friends and colleagues. For more updates on this story, refer to the full report.