New Leadership Announced at Latham & Watkins
The annual promotion of associates highlights the firm's depth of talent and strengths in key practice areas and markets around the world.
Recently, Latham & Watkins LLP, a leading international law firm, unveiled an exciting announcement regarding the promotion of 40 associates to partnership and 56 associates to counsel. This change will take effect on January 1, 2026, showcasing the firm’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing legal talent across its global offices.
The promotions come shortly after the election of 19 counsel to the partnership earlier this year, demonstrating the firm’s continuous investment in its people and practices. Rich Trobman, Chair and Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins, expressed his pride in the newly elevated lawyers, stating, "Today is an important and exciting day for our firm as we recognize and celebrate an amazing group of lawyers. They have contributed significantly to the growth, success, and culture of Latham." Trobman emphasized the incredible depth of talent within the firm, noting that each lawyer brings exceptional dedication to client service and embodies the firm's core values: teamwork, commitment, and a pursuit of excellence in achieving outstanding results for clients.
Michelle Carpenter, Chair of the firm's Associates Committee, echoed Trobman’s sentiments, highlighting that these promotions reflect the talent and skills of the attorneys and the firm’s commitment to building strong client teams. The Associates Committee, made up of both partners and associates, plays a crucial role in recommending promotions within the firm, underscoring the collaborative nature of Latham & Watkins.
Promoted Associates and Their Specializations
The associates elevated to partner reflect a diverse array of legal expertise and geographical representation. The following are some of the highlighted promotions:
Europe
Brett Carr (London) is a member of the Emerging Companies & Growth Practice, advising clients on regulatory matters in the payments and fintech sectors.
Michael Colle (Paris) specializes in M&A and Private Equity, providing critical guidance to private equity firms on transactions across multiple industries.
Chris Cox (London) also in the M&A and Private Equity Practice, focuses on complex acquisitions, exits, and investments.
United States
Shane Alexander (Los Angeles) represents corporate borrowers and sponsors in intricate financing transactions in the Banking & Private Credit Practice.
Savannah Burgoyne (Washington, D.C.) advises clients on internal investigations in the realm of White Collar Defense & Investigations.
Shannon Cheng (Orange County) is renowned for her expertise in technology and healthcare sectors, advising clients on corporate governance within M&A transactions.
Promotion to Counsel
In addition to the promotion of new partners, Latham & Watkins has also recognized the hard work of 56 associates who have been promoted to counsel. This group further enriches the firm’s skillset across various practices globally. For example, Esha Goel (Singapore) has made significant contributions to the Capital Markets Practice, advising on Indian as well as international capital markets transactions.
About Latham & Watkins
Latham & Watkins is a premier global law firm that positions itself through its exceptional legal talent and vast industry experience. With offices located in major financial centers across the world, the firm specializes in assisting clients with their most complex transactions, litigation, and regulatory challenges. Latham's commitment to innovation and excellence helps ensure its clients can successfully navigate their most pressing issues and achieve their strategic goals.
Contact Information
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the recent announcement from Latham & Watkins?
Latham & Watkins announced the promotion of 40 associates to partners and 56 associates to counsel, effective January 1, 2026.
Who is Rich Trobman?
Rich Trobman is the Chair and Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins, overseeing the firm’s operations and growth initiatives.
What areas do the promoted associates specialize in?
The promoted associates specialize in diverse fields, including M&A, private equity, banking, litigation, and various practice areas across the globe.
Where does Latham & Watkins operate?
Latham & Watkins operates in multiple financial centers worldwide, focusing on complex transactions and legal matters.
What is the Associates Committee?
The Associates Committee of Latham & Watkins consists of both partners and associates tasked with recommending promotions and overseeing associate development.
