#USA #Washington, D.C. #Morrison Foerster #Kimberly Hamm #SEC Official

Kimberly Hamm Joins Morrison Foerster

Morrison Foerster, a renowned global law firm, proudly announces the appointment of Kimberly Hamm as a partner in their Investigations + White Collar Defense Group and as co-chair of the firm’s Congressional Investigations Group in Washington, D.C. This news, disclosed on October 1, 2025, marks a significant addition to their team, enhancing their capabilities in navigating complex governmental inquiries.

Kimberly Hamm brings an impressive blend of public and private sector experience having held high-profile positions in government. Notably, she served as General Counsel to U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy and previously as Chief Counsel to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Jay Clayton. Her extensive trajectory—spanning over two decades—equips her with the necessary acumen for handling politically sensitive investigations and public policy strategies.

Prior to joining Morrison Foerster, Hamm directed the congressional investigations practice at another top-tier global firm, advising both public and private entities facing inquiries from congressional committees. Her robust understanding of the shifting political landscape and regulatory environment is invaluable, especially for financial institutions grappling with legislative changes.

Hamm's recruitment aligns with Morrison Foerster’s strategic growth in Washington, D.C., particularly its Congressional Investigations practice group. This initiative gained momentum earlier in the year with the inclusion of Carlos Felipe Uriarte, who has experience as an Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Legislative Affairs at the Department of Justice. The firm is also fortified by the recent hire of David Newman, previously DOJ’s second-ranking official in national security, and Margot Benedict, who rejoined the firm after serving as a Senior Counselor to the Attorney General. Together, this team builds a formidable backbone in both crisis management and government investigations.

Uriarte expressed his enthusiasm about Hamm’s addition, stating, “Kim brings substantial experience and deep connections in both Congress and the executive branch to our Congressional Investigations team and to the firm.” He emphasized that her insight into legislative processes and regulatory frameworks not only augments their capabilities but also strengthens their bipartisan connections across various industries.

Hamm’s significant experience with congressional inquiries is evidenced by her past as General Counsel to the Speaker of the House, where she oversaw investigations and provided strategic advice. Her legal career also includes tenure as a senior lawyer in the Office of General Counsel for the House of Representatives, advising on legal issues pertaining to congressional investigations, as well as litigating disputes related to congressional subpoenas.

In her role as Chief Counsel to the SEC Chairman, she successfully managed initiatives affecting all SEC divisions and advised on global regulatory strategies, financial stability risks, and major market events. With a strong foundation garnered from practicing in an international law firm, Hamm possesses expertise in various complex legal matters, including securities, compliance, antitrust, and internal investigations.

Reflecting on her new role, Hamm stated, “I look forward to working alongside Carlos and my new colleagues in the Congressional Investigations practice, many of whom also bring senior government experience.” She believes that this team is uniquely equipped to support clients in navigating sensitive congressional inquiries and associated reputational risks, underscoring the importance of effective representation during such challenges.

The firm’s Congressional Investigations practice is characterized by its cross-disciplinary team approach, which leverages extensive experience in managing congressional inquiries and preparing clients for testimony before Congress. This robust practice incorporates various seasoned professionals, including Brandon Van Grack, a former Counsel in the Office of National Security; Adam Braverman, the former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California; and Robert Litt, ex-General Counsel to the Director of National Intelligence. Together, they form a comprehensive team with a proven track record in both governmental and private sector environments.

In summary, Kimberly Hamm’s arrival at Morrison Foerster highlights the firm’s ongoing commitment to expanding its capabilities in governmental investigations and congressional inquiries. Her extensive experience and connections will undoubtedly enhance the strategic offerings provided to clients navigating increasingly complex regulatory landscapes.