Davis Polk & Wardwell has recently bolstered its ranks by hiring renowned litigators to spearhead a new Supreme Court and appellate practice. This strategic move sees the firm bringing on board Kannon Shanmugam and Masha Hansford from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, where Shanmugam served as the litigation co-chair. The addition of these two experienced attorneys signals Davis Polk’s commitment to enhancing its litigation offerings by establishing a robust appellate practice within its legal services portfolio.
Kannon Shanmugam is widely recognized for his expertise in appellate and Supreme Court litigation, having argued over 30 cases before the highest court in the United States. His departure from Paul Weiss marks a significant shift in the appellate landscape, as his reputation and track record are expected to draw considerable influence. Joining him is Masha Hansford, whose legal acumen and focus on significant appellate matters will further strengthen Davis Polk’s initiative in building a formidable appellate unit.
This ambitious development at Davis Polk is not only a testament to the firm’s strategic vision but also underscores an increasing trend among elite law firms to expand their appellate practices to meet growing client demands. The creation of such specialized groups within traditional firms is becoming more prevalent, as clients seek the highest level of representation in complex and high-stakes cases.
This development comes amid a competitive legal market where top firms are actively vying for experienced litigators to differentiate and expand their service offerings. While Davis Polk has long been a powerhouse in the legal industry, this latest move is expected to elevate its standing further, positioning the firm as a key player in appellate litigation on a national level.
For further details on this move, visit the news announcement here.