Welcome Distraction from Epstein Everything: Paul, Weiss Raids Kirkland & Ellis, Launching Houston Office
The second time is a win. In 2024, Paul, Weiss attempted to raid talent from a number of established Houston law firms. It was a high-profile failure. Being in Houston, where lots of energy dealmaking has been happening, has been the objective of Paul, Weiss powerhouse rainmaker in corporate Scott Barshay. Now that's reality. Paul, Weiss poached from Kirkland & Ellis star dealmaker Sean Wheeler, along with partner Debbie Yee. Wheeler will head the Houston office, in addition to being co-chair of M&A. Earlier, it had multiple raids on Kirkland & Ellis' London office to create dominance in that market. This announcement could distract from the obsession with the disclosures of communications between the law firm's chair Brad Karp and Jeffrey Epstein. Also it could reinforce confidence in the strategy of the leadership. In my coaching I teach the principle of introducing a new narrative to divert attention from what may be throwing shade. Paul, Weiss l...