The merger between US firms Cooley Godward and Kronish Lieb Weiner & Hellman is effective from today (2 October), with the combined firm operating as Cooley Godward Kronish.
The new firm has 550 lawyers and a significant presence on both US coasts. Cooley Godward is best known for IP and biotech work in Silicon Valley while Kronish Lieb specialises in litigation from its New York base. It is best known for its bankruptcy practice, having represented Enron’s employees in the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
The firm also boasts a reputable financial institutions litigation practice having represented clients including Goldman Sachs and Sumitomo Corp.
Former Betonsports CEO David Carruthers instructed Kronish Lieb to advise on his arrest by the Department of Justice in July.
Cooley Godward chairman and chief executive officer Stephen Neal becomes chairman of the combined firm. Kronish Lieb managing partner Alan Levine heads the New York office.
Cooley Godward reported gross revenues of $298m in 2005. Its client base includes Gilead Sciences and eBay.
