DC Lateral Market Poised for Record Activity in 2026
The National Law Journal examined the confluence of factors expected to drive unprecedented lateral partner movement in Washington, DC this year, with recruiters predicting that 2026 could set records for lateral hiring as law firm mergers, Trump administration departures and midterm elections create a "perfect storm" of activity.
Recent and pending law firm combinations will significantly contribute to lateral activity, as duplicated practices and conflicts inevitably drive some attorneys to seek new positions. Major combinations include Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft and Hogan Lovells, which plan to launch Hogan Lovells Cadwalader on July 1, 2026, and Perkins Coie and Ashurst, which expect to complete their merger as Ashurst Perkins Coie by mid-year.
Justine Donahue, managing director of Macrae's DC office, noted that merger-related movement often occurs early in the process, though some fallout can emerge years later as guarantees expire. "Often it's on the early side of mergers, you'll start to see the shakeout," Donahue said.
As the Trump administration approaches its first anniversary, more government attorneys are expected to transition to private practice, following 2025's record departures. The November midterm elections create additional dynamics, with government attorneys who depart in 2026 bringing valuable expertise and insights into the administration that could differentiate them in the job market.
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