Hiring three new partners and promoting five more to partner across 2025, the Chicago-based team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP has seen significant growth in the size of its practice. The firm is experienced advising cybersecurity and healthcare companies with a global coverage. It also supports service providers throughout the full outsourcing agreement lifecycle. Neil Hirshman handles BPOs, ITOs and tech licensing agreements, while Kevin Jacobsen acts on SaaS and tech development agreements. Todd Herst brings insight into the implementation of enterprise systems for pharmaceutical and energy companies. Gregg Kirchhoefer advises clients in the AI, robotics and life sciences sectors. In July 2025, Noah Shier left the practice.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Key clients
- Palo Alto Networks
Work highlights
Represented Palo Alto Networks, a global cybersecurity company, on a broad-reaching partnership with IBM that will deliver AI-powered security outcomes to customers.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Other key lawyers
Neil Hirshman; Todd Herst; Kevin Jacobsen; Gregg Kirchhoefer