Kirkland & Ellis, currently ranked as the leading firm in the United States as per the latest Am Law 100 ranking, is set to make its entry into the Philadelphia legal market. This move is facilitated by recruiting a five-member team specializing in mass torts from one of their major rivals, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.
This strategic expansion into Philadelphia marks a significant development for Kirkland & Ellis as they enhance their national footprint. The team joining from Skadden is led by acclaimed litigation partner Allison Brown and includes notable partners Jessica Davidson, Geoffrey Wyatt, Nina Rose, and Christopher Cox. Jon Ballis, the firm’s chair, highlighted the caliber of the new recruits, noting Brown as one of the most accomplished and in-demand trial lawyers in the United States. He expressed enthusiasm about the team’s potential contributions to the firm’s already robust litigation department.
While Kirkland’s move signifies a substantial shift in the Philadelphia legal landscape, Skadden has expressed goodwill toward the departing lawyers, acknowledging their contributions and wishing them well in their future endeavors at Kirkland. The transition’s timing remains unspecified, with official start dates for the attorneys yet to be confirmed.
The American Lawyer provides additional insights into this development, quoting Brown’s statement on her eagerness to join Kirkland’s esteemed litigation practice renowned for its talented legal professionals.