Looking to replenish its largest North American office with young talent, Baker McKenzie said it has added a transactional partner and a “rising star” from Kirkland & Ellis in Chicago.

The firm on Tuesday announced the arrival of Erika Lopez, a deal lawyer with cross-border experience and an interest in Latin America, with one firm leader saying she fits “neatly” into their strategy of long-term investment despite a “spotty” deal market now and in the near future.