Here's one way to know your lateral addition has been successfully assimilated: They become the chair of your firm's 160-lawyer litigation department.

In late 2014, James McGrath and three other partners joined Seyfarth Shaw in Boston from Bingham McCutchen.

On Wednesday, Seyfarth announced McGrath would become the 850-lawyer firm's new litigation department head, succeeding Katherine Perrelli, who served as chair for almost 10 years.

“Obviously, we integrated really well,” McGrath said in an interview.

He said his goals as litigation chair include “growing the group and elevating its visibility in the marketplace.” Targeted areas include, health care, intellectual property, class actions and franchise and distribution matters. (McGrath is also co-chair of Seyfarth's franchise practice.)

“James is a terrific lawyer and possesses all the qualities necessary for this important leadership position,” Pete Miller, Seyfarth's chair and managing partner said in a news release. “James will be at the helm of the department during a period of substantial growth for the firm. Our litigation team is well-positioned for continued success under his direction.”