Big Law is notorious for its hidebound habits, but over the last 50 years a few dozen men and women have had an outsize impact on the profession. Our research and reporting teams spent six months looking for the people whose ideas, policies, and practices have left an indelible mark on the legal industry over the last five decades. These lawyers, academics, clients, and business executives range from the familiar (Thomas Sager and the DuPont Legal Model are to the legal industry what Derek Jeter is to the Yankees) to the obscure (Quick: Who invented the poison pill?) The innovators are a varied group. Some, such as long-serving Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom’s managing director Earle Yaffa, blazed a trail for other C-suite executives. Others, like Slater & Gordon managing director Andrew Grech, who led the first law firm IPO, appear to be ahead of their time. Most importantly, all of these people promoted ideas that were embraced in some form by an industry not known for its innovation. Sometimes it’s not enough just to have a great idea—convincing others to adopt it is also worthy of respect.—Robin Sparkman
Trending Stories
-
- 25 Years of the Am Law 200: Is Size as a Strategy a Winning Formula?
- People, Places & Profits, Part III: Are Law Firm Financial Metrics Keeping Pace With Inflationary Growth?
- What Associates Really Think: A Deep Dive on Lawyer Satisfaction, Professional Development and How Firms Are Rethinking Talent Management
Featured Firms
Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates P.C.75 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Ste 101Atlanta, GA 30308(470) 294-1674www.garymartinhays.comLaw Offices of Mark E. Salomone2 Oliver St #608Boston, MA 02109(857) 444-6468www.marksalomone.comSmith & Hassler1225 N Loop W #525Houston, TX 77008(713) 739-1250www.smithandhassler.comPresented by BigVoodoo
More From ALM
View Now
View Now
View Now
Chicago, IL
Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards honors women lawyers who have made a remarkable difference in the legal profession.
Learn More
Chicago, IL
WIPL is the original global forum facilitating women-to-women exchange on leadership and legal issues.
Learn More
Boston, MA
The New England Legal Awards serves as a testament to the outstanding contributions and achievements made by legal professionals.
Learn More
New York boutique law firm currently seeking an attorney with substantive knowledge and at least three years experience litigating in New Yo...
Apply Now ›
LOGS Legal Group LLP is looking to add a Managing Attorney to our Cincinnati, Ohio office. JOB TITLE: Managing Attorney BUSINESS UNIT: Le...
Apply Now ›
Capehart Scatchard seeks a personal injury defense litigation associate with 1-4 years experience. Hybrid remote work permitted. Must be ad...
Apply Now ›