Business Development, Power, Influence in Big Law Shifting - But, Kirkland & Ellis Still Targeted

 There are posters on professional anonymous network Fishbowl Big Law who seem behind the times. Some continue to vilify what used to be the Big Kahuna in most aspects of the business. That is, Kirkland & Ellis. Here is a recent example. It's singled out as among the worst in one kind of sandbox. 

The ongoing reality is that K&E got the stuffing knocked out of it. Iconic were the three raids on its London talent by a competitor one-third their size in lawyer headcount. That was Paul Weiss. 

K&E is no longer the only one with the large financial resources and the risk-taking to "throw money" at what it strategically wants. The expectation had been that law firms do a conservative game.

Also how the leaders at K&E differentiate themselves through the Non-Equity Partner (NEP) tier is open to imitation. And that could happen. The rumor is that Paul Weiss might adopt that model in 2024. Meanwhile Paul Weiss is known, just like K&E, for doing plenty of hiring right now, while other firms are still holding their breaths about the law of supply and demand. Here is the Paul Weiss Job Portal.

In addition, other players in M&A and litigation are scooping up major accounts. K&E doesn't control those pieces of the market. 

More and more establishment media coverage is focusing on Paul Weiss, not K&E. 

Therefore, K&E shouldn't be targeted. But it still is. 

Eventually, as the way things are going Paul Weiss, which is currently so hot, could wind up the target. That will provide a lot of fun on professional anonymous networks.  

In coaching I warn: Your success will not be welcomed by all. 

Data or the gut for your careers and communications? Both of course. Complimentary consultation with intuitive coach, content-creator, and Tarot reader Jane Genova (text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com).