Leadership Restructuring at Shook, Hardy & Bacon Heralds New Horizons for 2026
Shook, Hardy & Bacon, a prominent law firm with a rich history dating back to 1889, has officially unveiled its new leadership structure, effective January 1, 2026. The firm’s Chair, Madeleine McDonough, expressed enthusiasm for the developments, stating, "We have always been fortunate to have a vibrant group of talented partners who are not only exceptional practitioners but also strategic thinkers. The additions to our leadership team reflect our commitment to continued excellence and innovation in legal services."
New Practice Group Leaders
The firm has appointed several partners to lead pivotal practice groups. Jad Davis and James Thompson have been named co-chairs of the Environmental Toxic Tort Litigation Practice Group. Their expertise is expected to bolster Shook's capabilities in navigating complex litigation involving environmental and product liability issues.
Additionally, James Mayor has been appointed as the chair of the firm's Corporate Services Group, a role that will enhance their offerings in corporate law services. Sue Werstak’s new position as practice managing partner of both the Environmental Toxic Tort Litigation and Product Liability Litigation practice groups positions her to oversee significant cases with broad implications.
Leadership at Office Locations
In addition to practice group leaders, Shook also announced the appointment of managing partners for key office locations. Annie Chuang will take on the role of managing partner at the San Francisco office, bringing her extensive knowledge and experience to oversee operations and client relations in one of the firm's most vital markets. Meanwhile, Janet Hickson will assume the managing partner position in the Orange County office, ensuring a strategic approach to the firm’s expansion in California.
About Shook, Hardy & Bacon
With 18 offices across the United States, Shook, Hardy & Bacon serves diverse clients in sectors such as health, science, and technology. The firm excels in various areas including product liability defense, business litigation, intellectual property matters, environmental law, privacy, and regulatory counseling. Their long-standing reputation for legal excellence is a testament to their commitment to providing exceptional service to clients.
The changes in leadership are set to enhance Shook’s strategic vision and operational effectiveness, demonstrating the firm's ongoing dedication to adapting and thriving in an ever-evolving legal landscape. As they move into 2026, Shook, Hardy & Bacon shows promise for a year filled with new challenges and opportunities, underpinned by a solid leadership structure and a talented group of partners who are poised to make significant contributions.
For more information about Shook, Hardy & Bacon and its new leadership structure, please contact Josh Epstein, the Director of Communications, at [email protected] or call 212.779.6118.
New Practice Group Leaders
The firm has appointed several partners to lead pivotal practice groups. Jad Davis and James Thompson have been named co-chairs of the Environmental Toxic Tort Litigation Practice Group. Their expertise is expected to bolster Shook's capabilities in navigating complex litigation involving environmental and product liability issues.
Additionally, James Mayor has been appointed as the chair of the firm's Corporate Services Group, a role that will enhance their offerings in corporate law services. Sue Werstak’s new position as practice managing partner of both the Environmental Toxic Tort Litigation and Product Liability Litigation practice groups positions her to oversee significant cases with broad implications.
Leadership at Office Locations
In addition to practice group leaders, Shook also announced the appointment of managing partners for key office locations. Annie Chuang will take on the role of managing partner at the San Francisco office, bringing her extensive knowledge and experience to oversee operations and client relations in one of the firm's most vital markets. Meanwhile, Janet Hickson will assume the managing partner position in the Orange County office, ensuring a strategic approach to the firm’s expansion in California.
About Shook, Hardy & Bacon
With 18 offices across the United States, Shook, Hardy & Bacon serves diverse clients in sectors such as health, science, and technology. The firm excels in various areas including product liability defense, business litigation, intellectual property matters, environmental law, privacy, and regulatory counseling. Their long-standing reputation for legal excellence is a testament to their commitment to providing exceptional service to clients.
The changes in leadership are set to enhance Shook’s strategic vision and operational effectiveness, demonstrating the firm's ongoing dedication to adapting and thriving in an ever-evolving legal landscape. As they move into 2026, Shook, Hardy & Bacon shows promise for a year filled with new challenges and opportunities, underpinned by a solid leadership structure and a talented group of partners who are poised to make significant contributions.
For more information about Shook, Hardy & Bacon and its new leadership structure, please contact Josh Epstein, the Director of Communications, at [email protected] or call 212.779.6118.
Topics General Business）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.