Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP (EGS), a prominent multi-disciplinary law firm, has announced the strategic incorporation of Kaplan Rice LLP, effective January 1, 2026. This merger marks a significant evolution in EGS’s litigation capabilities, reinforcing its national standing within the legal domain. Kaplan Rice is spearheaded by seasoned trial attorneys Howard J. Kaplan and Michelle A. Rice, each boasting over 30 years of extensive legal experience in high-stakes litigation, particularly within corporate and securities law.
Howard Kaplan expressed enthusiasm regarding the merger, stating, “Michelle and I are thrilled to join forces with EGS. The potential to expand EGS's already recognized litigation practice is invigorating, representing an exciting chapter in our careers.” This partnership amplifies EGS's existing strengths in areas such as securities, corporate governance, and complex civil litigation.
The integration of Kaplan Rice’s expertise is expected to substantially enhance EGS's legal offerings in several key areas, including internal investigations, white-collar criminal defense, and sports-related litigations. Douglas S. Ellenoff, co-founder of EGS, emphasized the transformative nature of this partnership, stating that it significantly propels EGS's capabilities in handling high-profile cases, which is pivotal for client relations going forward.
In response to this growth, EGS has notably expanded its New York City headquarters at 1345 Sixth Avenue. The firm now occupies a combined total of 60,000 square feet, integrating a new 20,000 square foot area to accommodate the team from Kaplan Rice, which brings eight additional lawyers to EGS’s robust portfolio. This expansion allows EGS to more efficiently house over 100 legal professionals in its New York office while maintaining more than 150 lawyers across its three offices nationally.
Renowned for its corporate and securities capabilities, EGS has established a leading position in SPAC and capital markets practices. With the strategic incorporation of Kaplan Rice’s litigation specialists, the firm reinforces its foundation, designed to adeptly support clients with intricate legal needs in high-stakes scenarios. EGS is widely recognized for its commitment to excellence, offering clients a unique combination of experienced legal judgment and technical proficiency.
As the legal landscape evolves, EGS remains committed to enhancing a strong middle-market platform while ensuring depth across key areas of practice. The firm is dedicated to serving its clients with senior-level engagement and efficient problem-solving strategies tailored to meet distinct legal challenges. Clients can expect adaptable fee structures, fostering a client-centered environment that emphasizes personalized service.
Founded in 1992, Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP is a nationally recognized law firm with a dedicated team of over 150 lawyers, specializing in various commercial law sectors, including Corporate, Securities, and Business Litigation. The firm is known for its significant experience, providing efficient legal services and creating tangible outcomes for clients navigating complex transactions and disputes. To learn more about their services, visit
www.egsllp.com.
This merger aligns perfectly with EGS's strategic growth initiatives and enriches its service capabilities in litigation, solidifying its reputation as a formidable presence in the legal industry. Kaplan and Rice’s national reputation and extensive track records position EGS for continued innovation and growth in the legal market, meeting the evolving needs of its sophisticated client base.