Adams & Reese Expands by Welcoming McGlinchey Stafford's Corporate and Real Estate Team

Adams & Reese Expands Its Legal Expertise

In a significant move to enhance its corporate and real estate practices, Adams & Reese has announced the addition of nine seasoned attorneys from McGlinchey Stafford, effective January 16, 2026. The incoming group is led by prominent figures Rudy Aguilar and Jean-Paul "J-P" Perrault. This strategic growth not only solidifies Adams & Reese's standing in the legal landscape but also effectively doubles the size of its Baton Rouge office within the Am Law 200 firm.

The attorneys joining Adams & Reese include Zelma Murray Frederick, Marshall Grodner, Aukse Joiner, Elisabeth LeBlanc, Kristi Wagley Richard, Patrick D. Riley, and Michael Rubin. Additionally, the firm will welcome four professional staff members from McGlinchey. This remarkable addition follows a series of other strategic integrations Adams & Reese has successfully executed, such as the incorporation of attorneys Richard Aguilar, Mark Chaney, and Adam McNeil in 2021, which expanded the firm's Financial Services and Construction Practice Groups.

Managing Partner Gif Thornton expressed enthusiasm about the new arrivals, stating, "Adams & Reese welcomes this accomplished group from McGlinchey. Their track record, client-first mindset, and practical judgment align with our strategy to scale our strongest practices where we deliver the most value." He elaborated that the expertise of the incoming group will enhance the firm's capabilities and sharpen its client service.

Rudy Aguilar highlighted the remarkable advantages this transition presents for both existing and new clients. He stated, "Our team brings market-tested depth in corporate and real estate transactions. Combining our strengths with Adams & Reese's presents an ideal opportunity for growth. We aim to maintain continuity of service for those clients transitioning with us, while leveraging a broader regional platform and multidisciplinary resources."

From corporate governance to complex financing, the team is equipped to handle a wide variety of legal aspects. Their representation covers a comprehensive range, advising clients on asset acquisitions, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, and more. On the real estate front, they cater to the needs of owners, developers, and investors concerning the full lifecycle of real estate assets, from acquisition to operations.

Aguilar and Perrault further emphasized their excitement about the move, remarking on the seamless transition to the new platform. They are confident that access to expanded resources and a broader geographic reach will only serve to enhance the quality of client service.

The integration of this accomplished group is expected to drive immediate collaboration across practice groups, promising that Adams & Reese can continue to deliver exceptional legal services. The firm represents diverse clients across various sectors, including commercial real estate, hospitality, and healthcare, showcasing the versatile skill set the new team brings.

Adams & Reese anticipates a smooth integration process and is eager to leverage the extensive experience of the new group to better serve its clients, ultimately positioning the firm for sustained growth and stronger service delivery in the competitive legal marketplace.