Arnold & Porter

Adds Seven New Partners in Seattle and One in Los Angeles  SEATTLE and LOS ANGELES, August 4, 2025 — Arnold & Porter announced today that the firm is continuing its strategic growth on the West Coast, building upon its recent expansion into Seattle. This growth reinforces the firm’s commitment to serving clients in one of the nation’s most innovative and rapidly growing markets. As part of its expansion, the firm has introduced new capabilities in agribusiness. It has also further strengthened its real estate, labor & employment, and commercial litigation practices on the West Coast with the addition of partners Marisa Bocci, Mark Filipini, Ashley Gammell, Daniel Glassman, Ryan Groshong, Kari Larson, Aaron Millstein, and Todd Nunn.  Arnold & Porter Global Co-Chair Michael Daneker said, “The addition of these talented colleagues strengthens the firm’s capabilities in key sectors and positions us to meet increasing demand for sophisticated legal counsel in the Pacific Northwest. This multifaceted team is well prepared to handle clients’ dynamic needs in one of the fastest-growing legal markets.”   Arnold & Porter Global Co-Chair Ellen Kaye Fleishhacker added, “The arrival of our newest partners on the West Coast is an exciting development for Arnold & Porter. We look forward to working with our new colleagues, spread across practices and industries, to strategically bolster the firm’s integrated offering for both existing and new clients.”   Seattle Office Head and Chair of Western U.S. Strategic Growth partner Pallavi Mehta Wahi said, “Following Arnold & Porter’s recent successful launch in Seattle, we’re excited to bring additional practice areas, leading lawyers, and community leaders with incredible client relationships to our firm. This office expansion is yet another commitment to deliver legal excellence and drive innovation for the market and our clients, and will not only support our work in Seattle, but will enhance the firm’s capabilities in the U.S. and internationally.”  Key Team Members:  Marisa Bocci, Seattle (Real Estate), advises institutional investors, asset managers, and nonprofits on commercial transactions across the agribusiness, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. Bocci’s practice centers on operational real estate, with experience in acquisitions, joint ventures, and leasing. She is particularly known for her work with cross-border clients on regulatory and legislative matters governing U.S. real property ownership and use, including compliance with AFIDA and parallel state-level statutes.  Mark Filipini, Seattle (Labor & Employment), counsels private and public employers on a wide variety of workplace issues, including labor/management relations and fair employment practices. He regularly represents management in federal and state courts and before administrative agencies, including the National Labor Relations Board. Filipini also has extensive first-chair trial experience across a broad range of civil litigation.  Ashley Gammell, Seattle (Complex Litigation), has extensive experience litigating complex commercial cases in state and federal court, arbitration, and before the International Trade Commission. Gammell represents corporate and public entities, including tech companies and many Seattle legacy brands.  Daniel Glassman, Los Angeles (Complex Litigation), is a litigator with extensive experience representing clients in various industries with a focus on healthcare. Glassman serves as a panel arbitrator for the American Health Law Association and serves as an arbitrator and co-chair of the Orange County Bar Association Mandatory Fee Arbitration committee.  Ryan Groshong, Seattle (Labor & Employment), defends employers in a variety of claims, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, retaliation, and wage and hour violations. He also litigates civil rights claims, significant personal injury actions, and a broad range of complex commercial matters, including contractual disputes, product liability claims, and enforcement of restrictive covenants.   Kari Larson, Seattle (Real Estate), focuses on real estate, including the acquisition, disposition, leasing, financing, operation, and development of commercial and agribusiness holdings. Larson regularly advises clients on regulatory compliance matters affecting the agribusiness industry, including those applicable to foreign investors under the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act and analogous state statutes. Larson also regularly represents borrowers and lenders in real estate lending transactions.   Aaron Millstein, Seattle (Complex Litigation), focuses on complex civil litigation, with an emphasis on healthcare litigation, government enforcement actions, internal investigations, and white collar defense. Millstein represents clients in various industries, both public and private, particularly when they are facing civil litigation involving a parallel government investigation or proceeding, whether civil or criminal.  Todd Nunn, Seattle (Labor & Employment), defends corporate and government clients in wage and hour class actions and FLSA collective actions in Washington, California, and across multiple jurisdictions. He also handles other class action and employment litigation matters. His practice focuses on the healthcare, manufacturing, customer service, and technology industries.  About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 16 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes. 

Adds Three New Partners in Seattle and One in Newark SEATTLE, July 28, 2025 — Arnold & Porter today announced the opening of its new Seattle office, marking a strategic expansion on the West Coast and reinforcing the firm’s commitment to serve clients in one of the most innovative and rapidly growing markets in the U.S. The office will launch with a four-partner group who bring deep industry knowledge and long-standing client relationships in the Seattle market and experience representing clients in commercial litigation, healthcare and corporate transactions, employment and class action litigation, and other transactional matters. The Seattle office will deliver the firm’s renowned legal services to the region’s clients and industry leaders at the intersection of innovation, regulation, and global commerce. The new office, located in the heart of downtown Seattle, will be led by litigator and well-known community leader Pallavi Mehta Wahi, who will also serve as the firm’s new Chair of Western U.S. Strategic Growth. Wahi will be joined by corporate, healthcare, and technology partner Annette Becker and employment partner and class action litigator Patrick Madden. In addition, nationally renowned employment litigator, Rosemary Alito, will join Arnold & Porter’s Newark office. With a GDP surpassing $300 billion, Seattle anchors the nation’s fastest-growing tech corridor. The city is home to global companies and innovators in the technology, healthcare, hospitals, manufacturing, aerospace, and consumer and retail sectors, who demand sophisticated legal counsel that can match their pace of advancement and multinational operations. Arnold & Porter’s deep industry experience and reputation for legal excellence make Seattle and its deep bench of industry leaders a natural choice to expand our platform and meet clients where they do business. In noting the opening of the office, Arnold & Porter Global Co-Chair Michael Daneker said: “This expansion significantly enhances our ability to support highly regulated businesses — both nationally and globally — with the strategic, solutions-driven counsel they rely on for complex, high-stakes matters. In the healthcare sector, for example, hospital systems and healthcare providers will benefit from the firm’s experience across the full range of healthcare litigation, transactions, and regulatory work. In addition, Rosemary Alito’s employment practice will be accretive in every respect, further enhancing the strength and depth of our Newark office.” Global Co-Chair Ellen Kaye Fleishhacker added: “We’re thrilled to grow our footprint in Seattle, a city anchored by global and emerging companies that has become a West Coast hub for cutting-edge technology. Its proximity to the Pacific Rim and strong connections to Asia reinforce Seattle’s importance to our cross-border practices. We are committed to the Seattle market and building strong relationships in a city that values excellence, innovation, and service to the community, which aligns with who we are as a firm.” Partner Pallavi Mehta Wahi said: “We are very excited to launch the Seattle office of Arnold & Porter. Seattle is a city defined by innovation, growth, entrepreneurial spirit, and community engagement. Arnold & Porter embodies that spirit in every way and is committed to the Seattle market and serving our industry-leading clients’ dynamic and ever-changing needs. Arnold & Porter’s deep regulatory bench, values-driven culture, and commitment to pro bono is very important to all of us, our clients, and our community. We are well-positioned to help Seattle’s leading companies and nonprofits navigate evolving challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.”   Key Team Members: Pallavi Mehta Wahi, Seattle (Litigation; Seattle Office Head; Chair of Western U.S. Strategic Growth) Rosemary Alito, Newark (Labor & Employment) Annette E. Becker, Seattle (Corporate & Technology; Healthcare) Patrick Madden, Seattle (Class Actions; Labor & Employment) Each partner brings a history of delivering outstanding client services and a proven track record of value-driven civic and community leadership in Seattle, Newark, and beyond. Together, they combine top-tier legal talent, management acumen, and the ability to drive high-stakes cases for clients across technology, hospital, employment, and corporate matters. About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 16 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.​ Contact:            Issara Baumann, 202.942.6682                                 [email protected]

BOSTON, July 2, 2025 — Arnold & Porter announced today that Gary Schall has joined the firm’s Corporate & Finance practice as a partner and co-head of the Emerging Company and Venture Capital group, resident in Boston. Hemmie Chang, head of Arnold & Porter’s Boston office, said: “Gary’s emerging company practice, which focuses on clients’ transactional needs and the legal issues that arise as their businesses mature, will be invaluable to the firm as we continue to grow our transactional practice in Boston. His established reputation among entrepreneurs, non-profit research entities, and emerging companies in Boston will deepen our service offerings in the market.” Ron Levine and Derek Stoldt, co-chairs of Arnold & Porter’s Corporate & Finance practice, added: “Gary is a leading lawyer for emerging companies and venture capital firms, bringing extensive experience representing clients with respect to early life cycle corporate matters. He has a sophisticated approach to meeting the diverse needs of these emerging growth clients and we are confident that he will be a valuable addition to our multidisciplinary Corporate & Finance team.” For over 24 years, Schall has advised both venture capital firms and emerging companies on a broad spectrum of corporate matters, including formation and corporate governance, contract negotiations, employment and equity compensation, securities law compliance, and intellectual property protection. He also guides clients through complex transactions, such as convertible debt and preferred stock financings, joint ventures, and buy- and sell-side mergers and acquisitions. Schall assists entrepreneurs and emerging companies in navigating various legal matters, from formation to equity, SAFE and note financings, and exit events. Additionally, he represents venture capital funds in their investments in startups and high-growth companies. Schall represents technology-based companies across a range of industries, including e-commerce, mobile technologies, hardware, software, wearables, biotechnology, and diagnostics. In joining the firm, Schall said: “I was drawn to Arnold & Porter’s expanding transactional presence in Boston and the firm’s robust emerging company practice, which provides incisive and business-oriented counsel — an invaluable asset for emerging businesses and their investors. I look forward to returning full-time to Boston, where I have longstanding relationships with clients in the emerging company and venture capital communities.” Schall earned his J.D. from Vanderbilt University Law School, Order of the Coif, his MBA from St. John’s University, and his B.S. in Finance from Lehigh University. In September 2023, Arnold & Porter announced the opening of its Boston office, with a focus on life sciences and health care transactions, litigation, regulatory counseling, and government investigations. Schall’s arrival follows the recent additions of Todd Boudreau, Brian Dunphy, and Giselle Joffre to the Boston office. About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 15 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.

Arnold & Porter announced today that patent litigators David Sheikh and Brian Haan have joined the firm’s Intellectual Property practice as counsel, resident in Chicago. The arrivals of Sheikh and Haan enhance the firm’s intellectual property litigation capabilities and build upon the Chicago office’s continued growth. In the last five years, the Chicago office has added 19 new partners and counsel and now consists of over 50 attorneys. Tyler Nurnberg, the Chicago office’s Managing Partner, said: “Dave and Brian are high-caliber litigators and we are thrilled to have them join the team. Their addition reflects the firm’s continued investment in Chicago, especially in core practice areas like IP litigation, where we have added a number of very talented lawyers.” David Sheikh has extensive experience in litigating intellectual property disputes, particularly those involving patents, trade secrets, and unfair competition. He also counsels clients on intellectual property matters. Sheikh has served as lead counsel across various industries, including medical devices, consumer products, advanced technologies, environmental solutions, manufacturing, and automotive. Over the course of his career, Sheikh has achieved favorable judgments for clients in numerous hearings and trials in federal courts throughout the United States. He earned his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law and his B.S. in Biology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Following his graduation from law school, Sheikh served as a law clerk for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Brian Haan has served as trial and appellate counsel in intellectual property lawsuits nationwide for both corporate and individual clients. With an engineering background before his legal career, Haan has extensive patent trial experience, including preparing numerous cases for trial and achieving favorable settlements for both plaintiffs and defendants. His practice also encompasses post-issuance proceedings, including inter partes review and covered business method review before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. Haan has participated in numerous federal court litigations, handling claims for patent and trademark infringement, Lanham Act violations, trade secret misappropriation, deceptive trade practices, and other business torts. Haan has litigated cases on medical devices, manufacturing, sports technology, consumer goods, telecommunications, e-commerce, and electronics. Haan earned his J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law, his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and his B.A. in Engineering Science from Benedictine University.

  NEW YORK, NY, May 20, 2025 — Arnold & Porter announced today that Eun Young Choi, former Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the National Security Division (NSD) and Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY), has joined the firm as a partner in the White Collar Defense & Investigations and National Security practices. Choi will be resident in the New York office. In welcoming Choi, Marcus Asner, co-chair of the firm’s White Collar Defense & Investigations practice, said: “Eun Young is a seasoned litigator with an impressive mastery of cybercrime and cryptocurrency and a deep understanding of various white collar and national security matters, gained from her experience as a former senior member of the DOJ and her long tenure as an AUSA with the Southern District of New York. She is well-positioned to advise clients on emerging key areas such as cyber, cryptocurrency, and artificial intelligence, along with internal and government investigations and other complex and sensitive matters.” Choi’s practice will focus on advising clients on cyber matters, digital assets, and emerging technologies, with an emphasis on government investigations, enforcement actions, and litigation, particularly as they impact national security. An accomplished federal prosecutor, Choi has held senior U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) positions with the NSD, the Criminal Division, and the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, serving most recently as Deputy Assistant Attorney General for National Asset Protection. In this role, she oversaw the NSD’s response to state-sponsored threats and led efforts to disrupt cyber threats, enforce sanctions, combat foreign malign influence, and mitigate foreign investment risks. Choi represented the DOJ on National Security Council interagency committees and international and public engagements related to cybersecurity, foreign investment, emerging technology, and counterintelligence policy, supervising over 120 attorneys and staff. She formed and supervised the National Security Cyber Section, responsible for investigating and disrupting cyber intrusions by nation-state actors, and led the Foreign Investment Review Section, managing the DOJ’s role in the Committee of Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) enforcement and the development of its program to protect Americans’ sensitive data from foreign adversaries. As the first Director of the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team, Choi led a team of over 20 prosecutors and investigators, managing investigations involving cutting-edge exploitation of digital asset technologies and platforms and exchanges that facilitated the criminal use of digital assets. Earlier in her career, she spent nearly a decade as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the SDNY, serving as the District’s lead cyber and cryptocurrency prosecutor, and leading novel cross-border investigations involving criminal cyber and national security cyber intrusions and attacks, including ransomware; money laundering; virtual currency; and complex frauds. In joining the firm, Choi said: “I am thrilled to join Arnold & Porter. I look forward to drawing upon my Department of Justice experience—from my frontline work as a prosecutor in the Southern District of New York to my leadership shaping national security and emerging technology strategy at Main Justice—to enhance the firm’s capabilities in investigations and litigation.  Together with my new colleagues, I hope to guide clients through their most pressing challenges, particularly in cybersecurity, digital assets, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. I am committed to providing the strategic counsel clients need to navigate government enforcement, complex investigations, and critical national security risks related to foreign investment and data.” Choi earned her J.D. from Harvard Law School, cum laude, and her A.B. from Harvard University, magna cum laude. She began her legal career as an associate at an Am Law 100 firm, following clerkships with the Honorable Reena Raggi of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and the Honorable Naomi Reice Buchwald of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Choi joins a number of Arnold & Porter colleagues who are SDNY alumni, including Marcus Asner, Stephen Cha-Kim, William Hoffman, Michael Kim Krouse, Manvin Mayell, Nancy Milburn, Michael Rogoff, Craig Stewart, and Baruch Weiss. About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 15 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 12, 2025 — Arnold & Porter announced today that Barbara A. Leaf, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs and U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, has joined the firm’s Global Law and Public Policy group as a Senior International Policy Advisor, resident in Washington, D.C. Ellen Kaye Fleishhacker, Global Co-Chair of Arnold & Porter, said: “We are honored to have Ambassador Leaf join the firm after her remarkable career in government service. Her profound knowledge and insights, especially in the Near East region, will be invaluable in guiding our clients through matters of business and public policy, including international challenges.” Michael Daneker, Global Co-Chair, added: “Ambassador Leaf is a distinguished diplomat that is highly regarded by governments in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly the Gulf states, as well as by U.S. companies operating in the region. She is well-positioned to help expand the firm’s practice in the Middle East.” As Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Ambassador Leaf led diplomatic and commercial advocacy across the region, overseeing U.S. missions from Morocco to the Gulf. Prior to this role, she served as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for the Middle East and North Africa. Ambassador Leaf was the U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates from 2014 to 2018, leading a bilateral diplomatic mission focused on deepening bilateral trade, defense and security ties, and counterterrorism, counterproliferation, and law enforcement cooperation. From 2018 to 2021 at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy, she directed the Beth and David Geduld Program on Arab Politics, regularly writing on Iraq, Iran, Gulf Politics, and broader U.S. foreign and national security policy. Earlier in her career, Ambassador Leaf served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Arabian Peninsula and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Iraq, directed U.S. stabilization and reconstruction programs in Basrah, Iraq, and was the Department’s first Director of the Office of Iranian Affairs. Her earlier postings included Rome, Sarajevo, Paris, Cairo, Tunis, Jerusalem, and Port-Au-Prince. In joining the firm, Ambassador Leaf said: “I am excited to embark on a new professional chapter in joining the storied firm of Arnold & Porter, where I look forward to leveraging my diplomatic experience to assist clients in navigating and resolving complex policy matters.” A member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Leaf was awarded the Distinguished Honor Award and received numerous Superior Honor and Meritorious Honor Awards throughout her career. She earned her B.A. in Government from the College of William and Mary and M.A. in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia, with a focus on Soviet affairs. Arnold & Porter’s Global Law and Public Policy practice is co-chaired by Ambassador Tom Shannon, the former Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs, and John Bellinger, the former Legal Adviser of the State Department. The practice has unique abilities to assist U.S. and non-U.S. clients in addressing international legal and policy matters involving both the U.S. and other governments and international organizations. About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 15 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 3, 2025 — Arnold & Porter is pleased to announce that Burden Walker, former Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Consumer Protection Branch of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Senior Counselor to the Attorney General, and Deputy Associate Attorney General, will join the firm as a partner in the Complex Litigation practice. Walker will be resident in the Washington, D.C. office. In welcoming Walker, Ken Chernof, co-chair of the firm's Litigation group, said: “Burden is an extraordinarily versatile, widely respected litigator whose breadth of experience at the DOJ will enhance our firm’s litigation capabilities. He is well-positioned to advise clients across a broad spectrum of disputes, particularly government-facing litigation, investigations, and administrative litigation, drawing on his experience in senior government positions.” In his role as Deputy Assistant Attorney General of DOJ’s Consumer Protection Branch, Walker supervised the enforcement of the nation’s consumer welfare laws, including the Federal Trade Commission Act’s protections against unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices and the Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act’s protections against misbranded or adulterated food and drugs. During his tenure at the DOJ, Walker also served as Senior Counselor to the Attorney General, Deputy Associate Attorney General responsible for the Civil, Antitrust, and Environment and Natural Resources Divisions, and Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland. Walker has investigated, prosecuted, and tried white collar crime cases and supervised other prosecutors in their appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. In joining the firm, Walker said: “Arnold & Porter has an impressive roster of talented former government officials and seasoned litigators. I am excited to draw on my experiences handling high-stakes cases at the DOJ and collaborate with my colleagues to represent the interests of the firm’s clients.” Walker earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School and his A.B. from Harvard College. He served as a law clerk to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg of the U.S. Supreme Court and the Honorable Stephen F. Williams of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 15 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.

Firm Grows IP Litigation Capabilities With Ray in Chicago, Parsons in Houston CHICAGO and HOUSTON, February 27, 2025 — Arnold & Porter is pleased to announce the additions of Brent Ray and Abby Parsons as partners in the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, resident in Chicago and Houston. Ray and Parsons’ arrivals underscore the firm’s strategic focus on expanding its core offerings in key markets and solidifying its reputation as a “go to” firm for clients in complex intellectual property disputes. The firm’s Chicago and Houston offices have grown steadily over the past few years, attracting top legal talent in multiple practice areas. In Chicago, the firm has added 17 new partners and counsel in the last five years, and now consists of over 50 attorneys. In Houston, the firm has added seven new partners in that timeframe. Dina Hayes and Doug Winthrop, co-chairs of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, said: “With their significant trial experience, Brent and Abby bolster the firm’s current intellectual property litigation capabilities in both Chicago and Houston. Brent’s ability to translate complex legal issues into concise solutions will be particularly valuable to our clients in solving their intellectual property matters. In addition, Abby’s creative and pragmatic approach to handling patent litigation matters in the life sciences sector will be an asset to our team.” In joining the firm, Ray and Parsons were drawn to Arnold & Porter’s highly regarded Intellectual Property practice, which handles high-stakes cases and has a strong record of success in significant patent jurisdictions throughout the U.S. Ray said: “We are excited to join this collaborative and integrated team to resolve complex intellectual property matters and provide comprehensive guidance to clients.” Brent Ray joins the Chicago office as a partner in the Intellectual Property practice. He is a first-chair trial lawyer who has served as lead counsel in more than two dozen cases before the Federal Circuit, the International Trade Commission, federal courts in California, Illinois, New York, and Texas, and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. He also regularly advises clients on the intellectual property and litigation aspects of corporate merger agreements and product acquisitions. Ray has represented clients across various industries, particularly in technology. Ray earned his J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law and his B.S. from Northwestern University. Abby Parsons joins the Houston office as a partner in the Intellectual Property practice. A trusted advisor to clients, she leads trial teams in federal district courts and the International Trade Commission. Her cases involve patents and other intellectual property disputes covering a wide range of technology, from pharmaceuticals and medical devices to software and high-tech patents. Parsons also advises clients on licenses, due diligence, and investments in intellectual property. Parsons earned her J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law and her B.A. from the University of Northern Iowa, summa cum laude. About Arnold & Porter Arnold & Porter combines sophisticated regulatory, litigation, and transactional capabilities to resolve clients’ most complex issues. With over 1,000 lawyers practicing in 15 offices worldwide, we offer deep industry experience and an integrated approach that spans more than 40 practice areas. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and focused industry experience, we provide innovative and effective solutions to mitigate risks, address challenges, and achieve successful outcomes.

Arnold & Porter is pleased to announce that Daphne O’Connor, co-chair of the firm’s Product Liability Litigation practice group, has been named head of the Washington, D.C. office, effective January 1, 2025. Richard M. Alexander, chairman of Arnold & Porter, commented: “Throughout her distinguished career, Daphne has demonstrated a commitment to effective client service and to mentoring her colleagues. In her new role, she will work closely with our talented professionals in investing in their success and promoting the core values of our Firm.” O’Connor, who began her legal career as a summer associate at Arnold & Porter in 1994, worked in-house at a Fortune 500 company from 2008 to 2015, and then returned to the Firm, said: “It is a great honor to be appointed as the first head of our Washington, D.C. office. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues in D.C. and throughout the firm to best serve our clients in this time of exciting evolution in the legal industry.” O’Connor is a veteran 30-year litigator with a focus on product liability and mass tort cases.  

A new report commissioned by Arnold & Porter, based on a survey of 100 senior executives and department heads from biopharmaceutical, digital health, diagnostics, and medical device companies, shows that artificial intelligence (AI) adoption is accelerating across the industry as companies implement it to accelerate product discovery and development, optimize manufacturing and the supply chain, improve marketing and sales strategies, and more. However, as with any disruptive innovation, risks need to be managed. The report also highlights looming governance and compliance needs as companies seek to mitigate the risks associated with AI technologies, particularly in areas like data privacy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property. The Arnold & Porter report found that AI use is still in its early stages for many in the life sciences industry, with around 75% of respondents beginning implementation less than two years ago. Despite this, 86% of companies currently integrating AI plan to fully deploy these tools within the next two years, reflecting a significant acceleration in AI adoption. R&D Leading AI Use, with Commercial Functions Close Behind Research and development (R&D) emerged as the leading area of AI implementation, with 79% of respondents actively using or planning to use AI to drive faster, more efficient drug discovery and clinical trials. AI is also making inroads into manufacturing (62%), marketing (45%), and regulatory functions (42%) as companies seek to harness the power of AI across the entire product lifecycle. Governance Amid Rapid AI Adoption Despite AI’s rapid pace, AI governance is an ongoing challenge for many life sciences companies. According to the survey, only 55% of companies currently using AI have implemented formal AI policies or standard operating procedures. Even fewer—just 51% of companies—have completed regular AI audits or assembled cross-functional teams to oversee safe and compliant AI use. This data suggests that companies will need to prioritize risk management and compliance more to realize AI's full potential without exposing themselves to unnecessary vulnerabilities. AI's Impact on Product Discovery and Sales The survey found that AI already delivers tangible benefits in the product discovery and commercialization phases. Approximately half of respondents have explored leveraging AI to optimize product discovery and design, citing anticipated faster time-to-market and improved efficiency as key drivers. Additionally, 85% of respondents reported that AI-driven initiatives to boost commercial effectiveness have been highly productive. IP Concerns Loom as AI Expands The survey also uncovered rising concerns over AI-related intellectual property issues. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents expressed significant concern about the potential for AI to introduce new IP challenges within the next year. As AI-driven innovations continue to reshape the industry, life sciences companies are increasingly vigilant about protecting their breakthroughs. Looking Ahead: AI's Growing Role in Life Sciences As AI becomes more embedded in life sciences operations, its role in patient care and diagnostics is expected to grow. The survey suggests that AI-enabled diagnostic tools, clinical trials, and AI-assisted treatment plans will soon become standard across the healthcare industry. However, given that regulators are already signaling heightened scrutiny of AI use from a compliance perspective, companies must address governance gaps to ensure safe, effective, and compliant use as they progress with AI integration. Arnold & Porter's full report, "The Convergence of Life Sciences and Artificial Intelligence: Seizing Opportunities While Managing Risk," can be found here. It also features in-depth analyses of the survey results and additional resources on AI issues in product design and discovery, intellectual property, medical device regulations, clinical development, privacy and cybersecurity, manufacturing and supply chain, commercialization, payments, governance and compliance, implementation, global considerations, and more.  

Arnold & Porter announced today that Bill Efron, former Director of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Northeast Regional Office, has joined the firm’s Antitrust practice as a partner, resident in New York. Debbie Feinstein, chair of Arnold & Porter’s Global Antitrust practice and former Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition, said: “Bill’s tenure at the FTC, along with his deep experience in both antitrust and consumer protection, makes him an asset to our leading Antitrust practice. His background in handling high-profile, cutting-edge, and highly complex matters will help our clients successfully navigate the current antitrust enforcement environment.” Efron has more than two decades of experience, most recently serving in a senior FTC enforcement position for over 12 years. He focuses on antitrust and consumer protection, with an emphasis on merger reviews, government investigations, and litigation. His practice will include anticompetitive conduct matters, government enforcement actions, and private litigation. As Director of the FTC’s Northeast Region, Efron led and supervised prominent antitrust merger and conduct investigations and litigation for the FTC’s Bureau of Competition. He also oversaw complex cases involving alleged unfair and deceptive practices for the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. During his tenure at the FTC, Efron handled challenging antitrust matters across an array of industries, including healthcare, digital platforms, retail, radiopharmaceuticals, medical devices, industrial products, and marketing data. His experience includes serving as lead trial and appellate counsel in the FTC’s successful challenge to a proposed $2.4 billion hospital merger. He has particular strength in healthcare and possesses significant experience with respect to digital platforms. Earlier in his career, Efron practiced as an antitrust and commercial litigator at an Am Law 100 firm. In joining the firm, Efron said: “I was drawn to Arnold & Porter’s premier Antitrust team, which is widely known for its strategic resolution of complex matters and its strong understanding of the antitrust agencies. I am excited to work alongside my colleagues, many of whom also have senior government experience.” Efron earned his B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania, magna cum laude, and his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law.  

Arnold & Porter announced today that Todd Boudreau has joined the firm’s Corporate & Finance practice with a focus on Private Equity, Institutional Investments, and Fund Formation as a partner, resident in Boston. Hemmie Chang, head of Arnold & Porter’s Boston office, said: “Todd’s versatile transactional practice, which spans across regulated industries, life sciences, healthcare, and technology industries, will be invaluable to the firm as we continue to grow our broad-based transactional practice in Boston. His arrival reflects our continued investment in the region.” Ron Levine and Derek Stoldt, co-chairs of Arnold & Porter’s Corporate & Finance practice, added: “Todd is a seasoned and experienced deal lawyer whose thoughtful approach to counseling clients will build on the firm’s existing transactional capabilities. His extensive transactional experience will be an asset to our multifaceted Corporate & Finance practice, which provides full-service solutions for our clients.” Boudreau brings more than two decades of experience assisting clients across a range of industry sectors, including aerospace and defense, consumer products, health services, life sciences, medical devices, and technology. He provides guidance on all aspects of M&A and investment transactions for private equity sponsors, limited partners, and strategic companies including both domestic and cross-border transactions. Boudreau also frequently advises institutional investors and fund managers on investments in emerging funds, single investor funds, secondary transactions, continuation funds, and direct investments and is highly experienced in counseling private fund managers on all aspects of fund formation for discretionary and non-discretionary alternative investment transactions. In joining the firm, Boudreau said: “I look forward to joining Arnold & Porter’s well-regarded Corporate & Finance team and collaborating with colleagues who have a deep understanding of various regulated industries in an ever-increasing environment of regulation and oversight. I am also eager to contribute to the firm’s growing transactional practice in Boston.” Boudreau earned his B.A. from the University of California, Los Angeles and his J.D. from Suffolk University Law School. In September 2023, Arnold & Porter announced the opening of its Boston office with a focus on life sciences and health care transactions, litigation, regulatory counseling, and government investigations. This followed the opening of the Amsterdam office in August 2022, which significantly enhanced the firm’s European life sciences regulatory capabilities. Boudreau’s arrival follows the recent additions of healthcare litigator Brian Dunphy and veteran white collar defense attorney and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Giselle Joffre to the Boston office.  

Arnold & Porter announced today that Brian Dunphy has joined the firm’s Complex Litigation practice as a partner, resident in Boston. Hemmie Chang, head of Arnold & Porter’s Boston office, said: “Brian’s extensive litigation experience, particularly with clients in the life sciences sector, builds on our Boston office’s ability to offer comprehensive services to clients. His established presence in the Boston legal community will contribute to our growth in the region.” Kenneth Chernof and James Herschlein, co-chairs of Arnold & Porter’s Complex Litigation practice, added: “Brian’s practice, which spans commercial litigation, False Claims Act matters, investigations, and counseling, enhances our Complex Litigation team’s offerings. His proven ability to handle complex cases and serve as a trusted adviser for clients will be an asset to our team of seasoned trial lawyers.” As an experienced healthcare litigator, Dunphy handles complex commercial litigation involving business disputes for healthcare, life sciences, and biotech companies and defends product liability cases for pharmaceutical and biotech companies. He advises and represents healthcare providers, health plans, Medicare Advantage plans, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology and life sciences companies, and clinical laboratories at all stages of investigations,  litigation, arbitrations, and at trial. Additionally, Dunphy is a trusted adviser for clients navigating government investigations and whistleblower complaints regarding alleged violations of the federal False Claims Act and similar state laws. He maintains an active pro bono practice and has dedicated more than a decade to advising a nonprofit focused on advancing the study, treatment, and prevention of the effects of concussions and other brain trauma in athletes and other at-risk groups. In joining the firm, Dunphy said: “Arnold & Porter’s strong reputation in Boston, coupled with the strength of its litigation, life sciences, and healthcare practices, is truly impressive. I am eager to contribute to the growth of the firm’s Boston office and collaborate with the Complex Litigation team, which has an established track record for handling high-stakes commercial disputes.” Dunphy earned his B.A. from Boston College and his J.D. from Boston College Law School. In September 2023, Arnold & Porter announced the opening of its Boston office with a focus on life sciences and health care transactions, litigation, regulatory counseling, and government investigations. This followed the opening of the Amsterdam office in August 2022, which significantly enhanced the firm’s European life sciences regulatory capabilities. Dunphy’s arrival follows the recent addition of veteran white collar defense attorney and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Giselle Joffre to the firm’s Boston office.  

Arnold & Porter announced today that Matthew Cudrin has joined the firm’s Real Estate practice as a partner, resident in New York.Cudrin’s practice covers all aspects of commercial real estate nationwide, building upon the firm’s multifaceted Real Estate practice. In welcoming Cudrin, partners Steve Gliatta, Jeff Kapner, and Amy Rifkind, co-chairs of Arnold & Porter’s Real Estate practice, said: “Matt’s pragmatic and thoughtful approach to managing complex real estate transactions will be an asset to our Real Estate practice. His comprehensive real estate experience will significantly contribute to our practice’s capabilities.” Cudrin brings substantial experience in handling a wide range of  commercial real estate transactions. He represents private equity funds, property owners, developers, investors, and lenders in connection with complex transactions, which include acquisitions, dispositions, financings, and developments. Cudrin’s practice is nationwide in scope and he has particular strength in the hospitality, multifamily, industrial, office, retail, and mixed-use sectors. Cudrin said: “I look forward to joining Arnold & Porter and collaborating once again with familiar colleagues. I am eager to work alongside the firm’s distinguished Real Estate team, with their wide breadth of experience and deep understanding of real estate markets.” Cudrin earned his J.D. from Hofstra University and his B.A. from American University.