Latham & Watkins Announces New Partners
Latham & Watkins LLP, a leading global law firm, has officially announced the promotion of 36 associates to partner, effective January 1, 2027. This significant move brings the total number of new partners in 2026 to 58, following earlier promotions of 22 counsel to partner earlier in the year. Rich Trobman, the Chair and Managing Partner at Latham & Watkins, expressed his enthusiasm for the newly promoted partners, emphasizing their outstanding legal skills and commitment to exceptional client service. He stated, “Congratulations to our newly promoted partners. Each has consistently demonstrated outstanding legal skills, a deep commitment to exceptional client service, strong teamwork, and leadership.”
This announcement marks a year of recognition for the firm, illustrating the growth and development of its legal practitioners who are set to lead the firm into the future.
Celebrating Excellence
The promotion ceremony serves as a highlight of the year for Latham & Watkins, celebrating a distinguished group of lawyers whose dedication and experience contribute significantly to the firm's success across various practices and markets. Michelle Carpenter, Chair of the firm's Associates Committee, added, “Today is one of the highlights of the year, as we celebrate this extraordinary group of lawyers. Their experience and dedication will further strengthen our partnership across practices and markets.”
The Associates Committee plays a pivotal role by uniting partners and associates to work collaboratively on key responsibilities, including recommendations for lawyer promotions, in a structure that is unique within the legal industry.
Spotlight on the New Partners
Among the diverse group of newly elected partners, several names stand out, representing various practices and regions across the firm.
European Region
- - Aaron Bradley from London, part of the Transactional Tax Practice, focuses on advising private equity firms and companies on transactional tax matters, including M&A and financing transactions.
- - Jean-Baptiste Douchy in Brussels specializes in Antitrust & Competition, providing guidance on merger clearances and regulatory issues under European law.
- - Corinna Freudenmacher from Munich, involved in M&A and Private Equity, assists financial investors in cross-border transactions and co-investments.
- - Philipp Hagenbuch in London represents banks and credit funds on financing structures, particularly in acquisition financing.
United States Region
- - Andrew Abokhair, based in Austin, joins the Data & Technology Transactions Practice, focusing on complex commercial deals involving AI technologies.
- - Kyle Adams from New York specializes in M&A and has worked extensively with private equity funds in their acquisitions and transactions.
- - Omar Ammash in Chicago advises emerging companies on venture capital and governance issues across various industries.
Commitment to Growth
Rich Trobman emphasized that the firm’s success hinges on the dedication and drive of its people. He noted that the newly elected partners are a reflection of the firm’s values, and they are expected to play crucial roles in advancing Latham & Watkins' legacy of excellence. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the firm remains committed to assembling unparalleled teams capable of navigating complex challenges for their clients.
Latham & Watkins is recognized globally for its legal expertise and client-centered approach, underscoring the importance of these promotions in fostering an environment that prioritizes talent development and exceptional service. The firm anticipates great success and growth with its new partners stepping into their roles, as they continue to uphold Latham’s longstanding commitment to excellence and innovation in the legal field.
In conclusion, the upcoming integration of these 36 new partners into Latham & Watkins marks a pivotal moment in the firm’s trajectory. Their unique capabilities and collaborative spirit are sure to contribute significantly to the firm’s future endeavors and its unwavering commitment to supporting clients amid growing complexities in the legal sphere.