Davis Polk & Wardwell is expanding its footprint on the West Coast, preparing to open a new office in Los Angeles anchored by a high-profile lateral hire from one of the industry’s most prestigious firms. The firm has reached an agreement to bring on Jason Russell, the current head of Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom’s Los Angeles office, to lead the new outpost.
The move signals a strategic push by Davis Polk to capture a larger share of the Southern California legal market, specifically within the high-stakes intersection of sports, entertainment and complex commercial litigation. According to a person familiar with the matter, Russell is expected to join the firm at a future date. Skadden did not respond to requests for comment regarding Russell’s departure.
This expansion comes at a time of significant financial momentum for Davis Polk. The firm recently reported a revenue increase of 26%, bringing its total to $3.2 billion. This growth rate represents some of the highest year-over-year gains in the Big Law sector, coupled with partner profits reaching approximately $9.8 million.
A Strategic Acquisition of Talent
The recruitment of Jason Russell is more than a simple staffing move; This proves an acquisition of deep institutional knowledge and a robust client roster. As a veteran litigator, Russell has built a reputation handling some of the most complex class actions and high-profile disputes in the consumer products and entertainment sectors.
His professional portfolio includes representation for several global entities, including:
- The National Basketball Association (NBA)
- Christie’s Inc.
- MGA Entertainment Inc.
- Credit Acceptance Corp.
Beyond his practice, Russell held a significant leadership role at Skadden as a member of the firm’s policy committee, the governing body responsible for the firm’s strategic direction and internal management. His transition to Davis Polk provides the firm with an immediate leadership structure for its Los Angeles operations and a bridge to the city’s most influential corporate clients.
The Competitive Landscape of Big Law in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has long served as a primary hub for global legal powerhouses, most notably serving as the headquarters for giants like Latham & Watkins and Paul Hastings. Still, the market has recently seen a surge of “New York” firms establishing a permanent presence to better serve their national clients and tap into the entertainment and technology sectors.
Davis Polk is joining a growing list of elite firms that have aggressively entered the LA market over the last few years. Willkie Farr & Gallagher, for example, opened its doors in the city in 2021 and has rapidly scaled to more than 100 attorneys, including the former second gentleman of the United States, Doug Emhoff. Similarly, Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison established a presence following a strategic series of hires from Kirkland & Ellis.
For Davis Polk, the Los Angeles office is not starting from zero. The firm has already begun laying the groundwork for its West Coast presence, having hired Robert Morrison from White & Case in August of last year. Sources indicate that the firm intends to continue making further strategic hires to round out the new office’s capabilities.
Financial Performance and Market Positioning
The aggressive expansion into Los Angeles is backed by a strong balance sheet. While Skadden remains a financial titan—crossing the $4 billion revenue mark in 2025—Davis Polk’s trajectory suggests a firm in a high-growth phase. The combination of skyrocketing revenue and top-tier partner profits provides the capital necessary to lure top-tier talent away from established competitors.
| Metric | Davis Polk | Skadden Arps |
|---|---|---|
| Reported Revenue | $3.2 Billion | Over $4 Billion |
| Year-over-Year Growth | 26% | Not Specified |
| Partner Profits (PPP) | $9.8 Million | Not Specified |
What This Means for the Legal Market
The entry of Davis Polk into Los Angeles is likely to intensify the “war for talent” among elite firms in the region. When a firm with Davis Polk’s financial profile and reputation for prestige enters a new city, it often triggers a ripple effect of lateral movements as other firms move to protect their client bases or seek their own growth opportunities.
The focus on Russell’s expertise in sports and entertainment is particularly telling. By targeting these sectors, Davis Polk is moving beyond its traditional strengths in corporate M&A and capital markets to build a comprehensive litigation powerhouse on the West Coast. This allows the firm to offer a full suite of services to clients who may have corporate needs in New York but litigation needs in California.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional financial advice.
The next phase of Davis Polk’s expansion will likely involve the announcement of additional lateral hires and the official opening of the physical office space. Industry observers will be watching for the specific date of Jason Russell’s arrival and the subsequent growth of the firm’s local headcount.
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