Cooley LLP has strategically enhanced its Washington, D.C. technology regulation group by bringing onboard two former high-ranking government officials. The firm announced the addition of Maureen K. Ohlhausen and Taylor M. Owings, both of whom bring considerable government and regulatory experience to the firm.
Maureen K. Ohlhausen, a former acting head of the Federal Trade Commission, is set to provide her expertise in areas related to antitrust, privacy, and regulatory policy. Her experience at the FTC, where she served from 2012 to 2018 including as acting chair, equips her with unique insights into federal regulatory processes, particularly in the tech sector. Her return to Cooley after a previous stint further strengthens the firm’s capabilities in navigating complex federal regulations related to technology.
Taylor M. Owings, who most recently served as the chief of staff and senior counsel to the Assistant Attorney General at the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, joins Cooley as a partner. Her role in the antitrust division, where she was involved in significant cases affecting technology companies, aligns well with Cooley’s focus on regulatory compliance and litigation support for their tech clients.
This strategic move by Cooley reflects an ongoing trend among major law firms to capitalize on experienced government officials for their insights and connections, particularly amid increased regulatory scrutiny of the technology industry. The addition of these two experienced professionals is expected to bolster Cooley’s standing in Washington, D.C., particularly as companies continue to face complex legal challenges in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. For more details, see the original report.
The expertise of Ohlhausen and Owings will likely be invaluable as firms navigate antitrust issues and privacy concerns, areas that have seen heightened interest from regulators in both the U.S. and globally. This move by Cooley is aligned with the broader trend in the legal market, where firms seek to enhance their regulatory practice groups by attracting talent with significant public sector experience, as observed in industry analysis.
The implications for Cooley’s clients, particularly those in the tech sector, are substantial. With the increasing complexity of legal landscapes and ongoing regulatory reform discussions, having seasoned professionals like Ohlhausen and Owings on board can offer robust guidance and innovative solutions, making Cooley an attractive option for tech firms seeking adept legal counsel in regulatory matters.