Morrison Foerster Strengthens Emerging Companies Group with Key Talent Acquisition
Morrison & Foerster, a leading global law firm, has taken a bold step to further enhance its position in the technology and startup legal services market. The firm announced a major expansion of its Emerging Companies and Venture Capital group on Wednesday, with the recruitment of a seven-lawyer team from Goodwin Procter. This strategic move is anchored by Peter Fusco, a renowned partner in the field, who will take on a key leadership role in the practice.
Significant Talent Addition to the New York Office
Morrison Foerster’s New York office is set to gain a substantial boost with the arrival of Peter Fusco, alongside his fellow partners Jae Zhou and Frank Paz. All three bring a wealth of experience advising early-stage startups, venture capital funds, and tech-focused businesses—sectors that continue to thrive and attract considerable attention from top-tier law firms.
Strategic Leadership and Firm Growth
Fusco’s role will significantly enhance the firm’s strategic efforts in New York’s highly competitive legal market. Michael Glaser, co-chair of Morrison Foerster’s Emerging Companies group, emphasized that Fusco’s deep expertise in technology law will serve to elevate the firm’s profile within the city's dynamic business ecosystem.
"Peter’s arrival marks a major milestone in our efforts to expand our capabilities and deliver even more value to our clients," Glaser said in a statement. "His leadership and extensive experience advising both high-growth startups and top venture capital funds align perfectly with our vision to lead in this crucial market."
Strengthening an Already Robust Legal Practice
This acquisition bolsters Morrison Foerster’s already-established Emerging Companies and Venture Capital group, which currently includes over 100 attorneys across its global network. The addition of Fusco’s team further solidifies the firm’s standing as a dominant player in the venture capital and startup legal space. With over 1,000 attorneys worldwide, Morrison Foerster continues to be a top choice for clients seeking expert legal counsel in this rapidly evolving sector.
Fusco’s Proven Track Record
Peter Fusco brings to Morrison Foerster a proven track record of advising on high-profile deals, including his notable work at Goodwin Procter. As co-leader of the firm’s Venture Capital and Emerging Companies practice, Fusco was instrumental in securing major transactions such as the 2023 sale of Salt Lake City-based Pathology Watch to Sonic Healthcare, an Australian health services company. His work in these complex, high-stakes deals has earned him widespread recognition as a leader in the field.
Expansion from Goodwin Procter and Other Key Hires
Fusco and his team are not the only recent additions to Morrison Foerster’s ranks from Goodwin Procter. In July, William Wilson, another former Goodwin attorney, joined the firm’s Technology Transactions group. This follows an earlier move in March when the firm acquired a team of five cybersecurity lawyers from Goodwin, further strengthening its legal capabilities in the tech space.
These strategic hires reflect Morrison Foerster’s ongoing commitment to expanding its expertise and providing top-tier legal services to the tech and startup industries. The firm’s proactive approach to talent acquisition has allowed it to build a deep bench of specialists who can handle the complex and ever-evolving challenges that businesses in these sectors face.
Goodwin Procter’s Response and Market Position
Goodwin Procter has acknowledged the departure of Fusco and his team but remains confident in its continued strength in the venture capital and technology legal markets. A spokesperson for the firm wished Fusco and his colleagues well in their new roles, highlighting that Goodwin’s team of specialized attorneys remains a formidable force in the legal space.
Despite these departures, Goodwin Procter continues to hold a strong position, serving some of the most influential players in the tech industry. Nevertheless, Morrison Foerster’s recent moves further bolster its position as a leading law firm for startups and emerging companies.
A Stronger Market Presence for Morrison Foerster
The strategic expansion of Morrison Foerster’s Emerging Companies and Venture Capital group reflects the firm’s determination to strengthen its market position and deepen its expertise in the fast-growing tech sector. The firm’s enhanced capabilities are poised to provide clients with even more comprehensive legal support, particularly in key markets like New York, where competition in the business landscape is fierce.
This high-profile addition positions Morrison Foerster for continued success as it cements its role as a top-tier legal partner for emerging tech and startup companies around the world.
