In 2026, corporate legal spending in the United States reached its lowest point in six years, reflecting a significant shift in how companies manage their legal affairs. This decline is attributed to several factors, including increased adoption of technology, strategic realignment of legal departments, and evolving relationships with external law firms. According to the 2026…
In a significant move within the legal circles of the gaming industry, Red Rock Resorts has appointed the head of Campbell & Williams, Ross W. Goodman, as their new General Counsel. This strategic hire is poised to bring seasoned legal acumen to the company’s executive team. The decision reflects Red Rock Resorts’ ongoing efforts to…
The legal landscape has recently been abuzz with news of Ventas Inc.’s top legal executive planning a move to Blackstone Inc. This transition sees T. Richard Riney, General Counsel for the renowned real estate investment trust, preparing to join the ranks of one of the largest private equity firms globally, after having steered Ventas through…
As companies face tightening legal budgets and transformative advancements in artificial intelligence, the decision to engage external counsel becomes increasingly strategic. General Counsels (GCs) from major corporations are re-evaluating how they engage these external resources to maximize value, particularly as AI takes on a larger role within in-house legal teams. In a recent discussion, three…
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s decision in Vericool World LLC v. Igloo Products Corp. has reshaped the landscape for false advertising claims under the Lanham Act. The ruling, made on May 6, circumscribes how companies can tout their products as innovative or novel, potentially impacting marketing strategies across industries. This case…
The departure of the General Counsel at the parent company of Icee and Dippin’ Dots marks a significant transition within the legal department of J&J Snack Foods Corp. This change was confirmed when the company announced that Stacey Bowers has stepped down, offering a new chapter in her professional journey after a substantial tenure. Her…
In a rapidly evolving legal industry, general counsels (GCs) are encouraging new law graduates to embrace a career path that may be uncertain and nonlinear. This perspective is becoming increasingly relevant as the legal landscape undergoes significant transformations, demanding adaptability and a willingness to pursue diverse experiences. Legal professionals have observed that the traditional linear…
A federal judge has dismissed an age discrimination lawsuit filed by a former vice president and general counsel of a Honeywell International Inc. subsidiary, ruling that the case must be litigated in China, as stipulated in the plaintiff’s employment contract. The plaintiff, who served as general counsel for Honeywell’s China operations, alleged that her termination…
The U.S. District Court’s recent decision to impose sanctions amounting to $172,000 on Barnes & Thornburg LLP underscores the judiciary’s growing stance against questionable litigation tactics. This penalty stems from the firm’s unsuccessful attempt to file a disqualification motion that the court deemed inappropriate. The decision to hold the entire firm liable was influenced by…
Goldman Sachs has initiated a significant transition in its legal leadership, with Kathryn Ruemmler playing a pivotal role in selecting the firm’s next general counsel. Ruemmler, a notable figure with an extensive background in legal affairs, serves as the global head of regulatory affairs at Goldman. Her influence and experience are seen as valuable assets…
The role of the general counsel (GC) is undergoing a transformative shift, as highlighted by a recent survey conducted by KPMG. Gathering insights from 468 legal leaders, the survey identifies a confluence of artificial intelligence adoption, escalating regulatory challenges, and growing boardroom influence as pivotal in redefining the GC’s responsibilities. This evolution marks a departure…
As businesses increasingly navigate complex markets and shifting regulatory landscapes, a trend is emerging in the roles played by General Counsel (GC) in large corporations. Human Resources chiefs are advocating for legal leaders who possess not only strong legal expertise but also robust business acumen. The modern corporate environment requires GCs who can actively contribute…
DLA Piper has appointed Abrar Hussain as a partner in its emerging growth and venture capital practice in Palo Alto. Hussain brings over 25 years of experience in the investment funds, biotech, and financial services sectors. His expertise encompasses fund formation, operations, fundraising, limited partnership negotiations, portfolio company support, complex mergers and acquisitions, initial public…
DLA Piper has announced the addition of a new partner focused on emerging growth and venture capital in its Palo Alto office. This strategic hire welcomes an experienced legal mind who previously served as the first general counsel and chief commercial officer of a prominent investment company. This move underlines DLA Piper’s commitment to strengthening…
Goldman Sachs Chief Executive Officer David Solomon is currently under scrutiny from lawmakers due to his decision to stand by the firm’s general counsel. The controversy arises amidst internal and external pressure surrounding the company’s legal decisions and ethical stances. Two notable lawmakers have vocally criticized Solomon, highlighting concerns about accountability and transparency within the…
Bayer AG has announced the promotion of one of its top legal figures, elevating its Litigation Chief to the role of Group General Counsel. This leadership change comes amid ongoing legal challenges that the company has faced since its acquisition of Monsanto in 2018, particularly related to the controversial weed killer, Roundup. In recent years,…
Bayer AG has appointed Dr. Max Thümmel, 43, as its new General Counsel, effective July 2026. Thümmel, who currently leads the company’s global litigation team, will succeed Dr. Thomas Laubert, who departed the company at the end of March. In his new role, Thümmel will oversee Bayer’s Law, Patents & Compliance (LPC) division, reporting directly…
In a notable shift within the legal industry, Sanford Heisler’s General Counsel has transitioned to Wigdor LLP, taking the firm’s employment practice to new heights. This move underscores ongoing trends in employment law and the dynamics of legal talent acquisition across top-tier firms. Wigdor LLP, known for its formidable presence in employment litigation, is poised…
In a notable shift within the landscape of corporate legal compensation, Albertsons Companies has significantly increased the compensation of its General Counsel, elevating the total package to $10 million in 2025. This marks an increase of $4 million from previous figures, highlighting the growing importance and recognition of legal leadership in major corporations. Details of…
Focus Brands Inc., the parent company of well-known franchises such as Carvel and Auntie Anne’s, has recently announced a significant appointment in its legal department. The company has brought on board a seasoned franchise industry veteran as its new General Counsel. Jill Thomas, known for her extensive experience in legal strategies across major franchises, will…
In a notable move within the real estate investment trust (REIT) sector, Equity Residential’s General Counsel has joined the executive lineup of AvalonBay Communities as the two entities move towards a merger. This strategic consolidation seeks to create a formidable presence in the residential real estate market, merging the strengths and assets of both companies….
In a significant move within the legal sector, Phelps Dunbar has strengthened its real estate practice in Tampa with the recent addition of a seasoned real estate general counsel. This strategic hire highlights Phelps Dunbar’s commitment to expanding its influence and expertise in the Gulf Coast region. The newly appointed counsel arrives with a wealth…
Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon has taken a decisive step to stabilize leadership amid controversy by urging the bank’s top lawyer, Kathryn Ruemmler, to remain at the firm. This comes in the wake of scrutiny over her alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier whose criminal activities have cast a long shadow over those associated…
In May, several General Counsels (GCs) from notable corporations made decisions impacting their stock holdings, including figures from Arm Holdings. These transactions are of particular interest to legal professionals and corporate governance analysts as they provide insight into potential strategic moves or personal financial decisions by key executives. Arm Holdings, a leader in semiconductor and…
The recent increase in compensation for DXC Technology’s General Counsel, William Deckelman, will see his package reach $4.7 million by 2026. This strategic decision aligns with DXC’s broader objectives to retain and incentivize top-tier legal talent during a period of transformation within the company. The increase was approved amidst DXC’s ongoing initiatives to streamline operations…