As large law firms continue to bolster their restructuring practices, Kirkland & Ellis has now dipped its toe in the partner hiring trend, adding its first lateral hire in the practice in about 12 years.

The top-ranked Am Law 100 firm on Thursday said it has hired Christine Okike as a partner in its restructuring group in New York. Okike, who represents parties in complex restructuring transactions, distressed acquisitions and cross-border proceedings, was a corporate restructuring partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom.