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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June 07, 2021 | The American Lawyer

Deal Watch: Crushing It: M&A Hits All-Time YTD High as Activity Passes $2.4 Trillion

May was the third month in a row that saw over $500 billion in M&A activity and tech finally relinquished its crown for industry totals after close to a year straight of monthly wins.

By Patrick Smith

13 minute read

June 04, 2021 | The American Lawyer

Davis Polk Executive Director Leaves Firm for PLI Presidency Post

Sharon Crane, who had been at the firm since 2007, will now head up the CLE provider.

By Patrick Smith

3 minute read

June 03, 2021 | The American Lawyer

'Staff Are People Too': All Stroock Employees Can Work Hybrid, Including Secretaries

The uniform policy for attorneys and staff stands in contrast to several other firms, such as Skadden.

By Patrick Smith

3 minute read

June 03, 2021 | The American Lawyer

Law Firms Show Increased Willingness to Band Together for Social Causes

Since the original letter was published in The American Lawyer on May 27, almost 50 additional signatories have joined the call for a denouncement of antisemitism, in a further show of law firms' willingness to speak out and do so in an organized way.

By Patrick Smith

3 minute read

June 03, 2021 | The American Lawyer

Am Law 50 Firms Are Outpacing the Rest. Is Joining That Group a Worthy Goal?

The highest-grossing firms have fared better and thrived in recent years. For the rest, getting there is possible, but it comes with a cost.

By Patrick Smith

7 minute read

June 02, 2021 | The American Lawyer

"None of This Happened by Accident": How O'Melveny Built a Self-Sustaining Pipeline for Women Litigators

Time, firm-wide buy-in, deliberate platforming and succession planning all play a part in how the firm was able to not just develop prominent women litigators, but make the firm a destination for those who hope to follow in their footsteps.

By Patrick Smith

6 minute read

June 02, 2021 | The American Lawyer

Goodwin Keeps Building in Antitrust as Inquiries Into Tech, Life Sciences Grow

Goodwin has made a name for itself with its M&A, technology and life sciences practices. Arman Oruc is the latest addition to its antitrust roster, helping the firm to continue to grow in those areas.

By Patrick Smith

3 minute read