In matters of both quantity and quality, few firms can stack up next to Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP & Affiliates. A young entry into the competitive New York landscape little more than a mere half-century ago, Skadden has evolved into one of the world's greatest firms, boasting over 1,700 attorneys in 22 locations across the globe.
Given its size and scope, Skadden is annually near the top of profit lists. According to Corporate Control Alert, Skadden was 2003's number one firm in terms of total M&A transactions for an astounding 12th year in a row. Skadden's financial prowess is matched by its recognition from various law publications. A recent issue of The American Lawyer placed Skadden in the top 10 in 14 different categories, far more than any other firm. Chambers USA singled out 99 Skadden partners for achievement in a variety of practices, a staggering amount considering the number of firms that don't even have that many associates, let alone partners.
Skadden is widely viewed as one of the top corporate law firms in the country and represents a healthy portion of the Fortune 500. Clients have included Disney, Bell Atlantic and Sprint---just to name a few. The firm played a huge role in many of the well-known M&A cases during the fecund 1980s. New York partner Peter Atkins handled Kohlberg Kravis Roberts' fabled buyout of RJR Nabisco, a sum which exceeded $20 billion. Currently Skadden is representing both Westfield American Trust and Westfield Holdings Ltd. in a three-way merger worth $16.2 billion.
Skadden's M&A reputation is so celebrated that it has even led to a bit of cloak-and-dagger intrigue. White Plains attorney Robert Schuster tried to bribe a Skadden paralegal in the hopes of obtaining inside information about imminent M&A deals. The paralegal reported the incident to the firm, who relayed it to the FBI. The paralegal covertly taped conversations with Mr. Schuster and gave him a false tip. Mr. Schuster was subsequently arrested. Of course, most paralegals at the firm have a comparatively banal schedule.
Skadden is not only about mega-sized corporate deals. There have also been a number of high-profile litigation cases. Washington D.C. partner Robert Bennett served as President Clinton's attorney in the Paula Jones sexual harassment suit.
On the pro bono front the firm has received a long list of awards from organizations such as the NAACP Legal Defense Fund to Pro Bono Advocates. Skadden has been heralded for its famous "Skadden Fellowship Foundation," which, since 1988, has aided those desirous of pursuing a career in public interest work. The Los Angeles Times dubbed the program "a legal Peace Corps."
It would be fair to assume that identity is often lost in such a behemoth, but it must be kept in mind that while a good number of attorneys are concentrated in the New York headquarters, others are spread out from Singapore to Frankfurt. The firm has managed to produce a number of stars and retain its philosophy. Original (lone) attorney, the legendary Joseph Flom, is still a partner at the firm.
The firm is highly cognizant that despite its numbers, each individual lawyer is crucial to the overall success, and this recognition is reflected in the payroll. Attorneys at Skadden can expect to share in the wealth. Most first year associates receive around $140,000 before bonuses kick in and more tenured lawyers receive proportionately munificent salaries.
It may be a mouthful to say and make for a somewhat protracted letterhead, but in a relatively short time Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom has established itself as a major world player and one of America's premiere firms. For attorneys that seek the social advantages of large networks and the professional challenge of epic-sized deals, there is no other place to turn.
Jobs
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP currently has several openings for litigators, corporate attorneys and real estate attorneys, among others, throughout its 22 offices. More information regarding positions at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP can be found in the LawCrossing job database.
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