In a significant addition to its team, Kaplan Kirsch & Rockwell has welcomed back another seasoned attorney from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The firm announced the hiring of a former acting general counsel under Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who also served as chief counsel of the Federal Transit Administration, as a new partner. This strategic move highlights the firm’s commitment to bolstering its expertise in transportation law.
This attorney, known for their extensive experience with federal transportation policy, is expected to enhance the firm’s capabilities in addressing complex regulatory challenges and advising on infrastructure projects. Their deep understanding of transit policies and federal regulations will be instrumental in guiding clients through the multifaceted landscape of transportation law.
The hire reflects a broader trend where law firms are increasingly recruiting experts with substantial governmental experience to better navigate regulations affecting industries like transportation and infrastructure. Law firms are keen to bring in professionals who understand the intricacies of policy-making and can provide informed counsel on compliance and strategic planning.
Further emphasizing this trend, according to Law360, such hires are particularly valuable given the Biden administration’s ambitious infrastructure agenda. The administration has prioritized investments in sustainable transportation and infrastructure, thereby increasing the demand for legal expertise that can help stakeholders align with federal initiatives.
- The addition of this former DOT attorney is likely to reinforce Kaplan Kirsch’s involvement in public transportation projects and infrastructure development.
- This move aligns with the firm’s strategic goal of expanding its influence in the field of transportation, drawing on the attorney’s experience to effectively navigate new federal policies.
The attorney’s transition from the DOT to Kaplan Kirsch is part of a growing pattern where law practitioners shift between public service and private sector roles, bringing regulatory and policy insights that are invaluable in a legal landscape constantly reshaped by legislative changes.
As Kaplan Kirsch continues to attract talent with federal experience, the firm’s clients stand to benefit from nuanced and comprehensive legal strategies in transportation and beyond.