Patrick Smith

Patrick Smith, based in New York, covers the business of law, including the ways law firms compete for clients and talent, M&A and corporate work, leadership and marketing innovation. Reach him at [email protected] or on Twitter at @nycpatrickd

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November 12, 2020 | Pro Mid Market

Why Midsize Firms Are Less Likely to Eat Their Young In A Crisis

Midsize firms, even with less room for error, may be in a better position to keep their associates busy and learning than their larger counterparts.

By Patrick Smith

6 minute read

November 11, 2020 | The American Lawyer

How to Handle an Administration Change ... at a Law Firm

While the person taking charge is of course paramount, a lot of other changes happen when power transitions, and it isn't always smooth.

By Patrick Smith

6 minute read

November 10, 2020 | The American Lawyer

How Firms Bulked Up Their Digital Marketing Strategies During the Pandemic

As expected, the pandemic brought an increase in law firms' use of and reliance on digital marketing and social media, and they are getting better at it.

By Patrick Smith

8 minute read

November 09, 2020 | The American Lawyer

What a Biden Administration Means for Big Law

Change in Washington tends to create legal work. But which areas stand to benefit the most?

By Patrick Smith

5 minute read

November 06, 2020 | The American Lawyer

Hire Up: Cozen Keeps Laterals Coming, Non-Election Action in DC

A slower week for laterals, there was still some non-election related news coming out of D.C. and a couple of higher-profile hires by litigation funder Validity.

By Patrick Smith

6 minute read

November 02, 2020 | The American Lawyer

Katten Parts Ways With Attorneys, Brings Back Some Furloughed Staff

Citing future planning as the main driver, the firm will separate from some of its furloughed staff and an undisclosed number of attorneys.

By Patrick Smith

4 minute read

November 02, 2020 | The American Lawyer

Brownstein Adds Blue Dog Dem Pryor From Venable to Growing AG Practice

The former attorney general and senator from Arkansas is known for his ability to reach across the aisle. Bipartisan Brownstein is counting on it.

By Patrick Smith

4 minute read

October 30, 2020 | The American Lawyer

M&A Dealmakers Concerned About Stimulus and Vaccine Impact—Not Just Election Results

M&A lawyers weigh in on how the 2020 election results may impact deal flow. But the election is just one concern for future deal activity, according to a new survey.

By Patrick Smith

5 minute read