John Quinn, the founder of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, has stepped down from his leadership role at the firm. In an email to partners on Mother’s Day morning, Quinn announced his resignation from the executive committee, describing the decision as “logical” and noting that he “didn’t really think about what day of the week it was when he decided to make his announcement.” ([news.bloomberglaw.com](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/immigration/john-quinn-says-timing-of-his-firm-leadership-exit-is-logical?utm_source=openai))
Quinn, who co-founded the firm in 1986, will continue as a partner and assume the title of non-executive chair. This new role will allow him to focus on promoting the firm and client development. Co-managing partners William Burck and Mike Carlinsky expressed their gratitude for Quinn’s contributions over the past four decades, stating, “We thank John for his tireless efforts over the last 40 years in building the world’s leading disputes firm.” ([news.bloomberglaw.com](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/health-law-and-business/quinn-emanuel-founder-john-quinn-steps-down-from-leadership-role?utm_source=openai))
Under Quinn’s leadership, Quinn Emanuel has grown into a global litigation powerhouse with over 1,300 lawyers across 35 offices in 12 countries. The firm is renowned for its focus on complex commercial litigation and has been involved in numerous high-profile cases. ([abovethelaw.com](https://abovethelaw.com/2026/05/john-quinn-stepping-down-from-running-quinn-emanuel/?utm_source=openai))
Quinn’s decision to step down from day-to-day management reflects a strategic shift towards enhancing the firm’s global presence and client relationships. By concentrating on travel and practice growth, he aims to further solidify Quinn Emanuel’s position in the competitive legal market.
The transition also marks a significant moment for the firm as it navigates leadership changes while maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality legal services. The legal community will be watching closely to see how Quinn Emanuel continues to evolve under its new management structure.