In a significant development for DLA Piper, Gerry Williams has been appointed as the Co-US Managing Partner, joining Jackie Park in overseeing the firm’s operations across the United States. This appointment marks a transition from Richard Chesley’s role, as he steps into the global managing partner position. Williams’s extensive experience includes advising private equity funds and Fortune 1000 corporations on mergers and acquisitions, securities, finance, and corporate governance matters. His expertise is expected to bolster the firm’s strategic initiatives domestically and internationally. Details about Williams’s appointment can be found on DLA Piper’s official announcement.
In other legal industry movements, Stephen Frank, known for his leadership in the “Operation Varsity Blues” college admissions investigation, has transitioned to Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan. The move highlights the firm’s ongoing efforts to enhance its capabilities in complex legal matters. Further insights into Frank’s career change and its implications can be accessed through Reuters.
Additionally, efforts to address the lack of a physical law school in Alaska have taken a concrete step forward. The University of Alaska Anchorage, in collaboration with the Seattle University School of Law, is developing the Alaska Hybrid Hub, an innovative initiative designed to provide Alaskan students with the opportunity to pursue legal education without relocating out of state. More about these educational advancements is available at Alaska’s News Source.
In a story of resilience and dedication, Jeanne Ortiz-Ortiz, stationed in Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria, now plays a pivotal role in the American Bar Association’s Disaster Legal Services program. Her contributions to providing legal aid to disaster survivors underscore the essential support lawyers can offer in crisis situations. Learn more about her journey and efforts at Yale Climate Connections.
This week also witnessed notable lateral moves within the legal industry. James Grimwood has joined Debevoise & Plimpton in London, focusing on private equity and mergers. Meanwhile, Prem Mohan has taken on the role of heading European Financial Services Regulation at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, and Peter Smith is now part of Pierson Ferdinand in New York. For more detailed coverage of these moves, Bloomberg Law provides comprehensive insights available here.