Chicago-founded law firms are ramping up their efforts to reclaim their dominance within the Windy City, reversing years of shrinking local headcounts by poaching talent from nearby competitors. The most notable move comes from Sidley Austin, where Chris Abbinante, recently appointed as Chicago office co-managing partner, is leading a proactive recruitment drive aimed at local partners from marquee firms. As Abbinante highlighted, the firm has historically been less aggressive in targeting local talent and intends to change that approach to foster global growth.
Over the past decade, only Kirkland & Ellis has significantly grown its Chicago office, increasing its headcount by roughly 27%, whereas other big names like McDermott Will & Emery, Winston & Strawn, and Baker McKenzie have seen declines. Kirkland’s litigation partner Andrew Kassoff emphasized the city’s strategic importance, citing its deep legal talent pool, prestigious law schools, and sophisticated businesses.
With competitors like King & Spalding, Willkie Farr & Gallagher, Cooley LLP, and Norton Rose Fulbright entering the Chicago market, Chicago-founded firms are re-strategizing. For example, Joanna Horsnail of Mayer Brown, which recently rolled out a three-year strategic plan, noted Chicago’s “sticky market” where client and attorney loyalty run deep. Horsnail said the firm plans to focus its hiring efforts on sectors like finance, insurance, M&A, and renewable energy.
Baker McKenzie, which has hired five partners recently, plans ongoing recruitment to replenish its talent pool following Covid-accelerated retirements. McDermott’s Chicago managing partner Michael Boykins and Winston & Strawn’s new chairman Steve D’Amore have also signaled renewed focus on growing their Chicago offices through strategic hires.
The consensus among these firms is clear: while their presence in Chicago may have waned over the years, their commitment to strengthening their home turf remains steadfast. For more detailed insights on the Chicago legal market dynamics, visit Bloomberg Law.
Additional Legal News
- On Dentons: The global firm has appointed former Ernst & Young executive Kate Barton as its new global chief executive officer. Barton will join Dentons in early September, officially starting her term on November 10, as reported by Meghan Tribe here.
- On Clifford Chance: Clifford Chance achieved nearly $3 billion in global revenue last year, setting an all-time high for the UK-founded law firm. This milestone comes amidst its increased efforts to compete in the US market, with a 28% revenue gain over the year, detailed by Mahira Dayal here.
- On Presidential Donations: Lawyers are quickly mobilizing donations for Vice President Kamala Harris’s White House bid, as reported by Tatyana Monnay and Brian Baxter here.
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