As some analysts warn of recession risks this year, more large law firms are bolstering their bankruptcy and restructuring practices, even as Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings remain relatively low.

Just in the last two weeks, Alston & Bird, Womble Bond Dickinson and Eversheds Sutherland have all made bankruptcy hires, following a spurt of bankruptcy partner moves last month. Practice leaders and bankruptcy practitioners at these firms say they see signs of an uptick in filings or restructuring work in 2022. Some are already seeing more activity.