A World Crazed By Sports - The Big Game in Big Law and Increasing Competition for Paul, Weiss

 Way back in 2015, law firm Paul, Weiss was called in by the NFL to investigate the high-profile "deflategate" at the Patriots. 

There was an immediate association between sports and that white-shoe firm. Since then, it's significantly increased its legal business in the sports niche, as well as its contacts. It was rumored that when it needed an invitation to discuss the March 2025 Executive Order in a personal meeting with US President Donald Trump, it contacted Patriots owner Robert Kraft. 

Paul, Weiss had developed a stand-alone Sports Practice. In 2024, its chair Brad Karp told Law.com that the overall legal issues associated with sports will continue to expand. Driving that are factors ranging from media rights to "nuanced legal judgments and interpreations." In 2025, it was recognized by Law360 as being the Practice Group of the Year in the sports and betting catgegory.

Just this week Paul Weiss advised major client Apollo on establishing the Apollo Sports Capital platform. That involves providing funding for sports teams and leagues. Law firm practices focused on private equity, as is Paul Weiss', are especially involved in the sports game. That's a major feeder of M&A deals to put together. 

Karp has been labeled by some as "competitive." He'll have to keep ramping up. On a worldwide basis other aggressive law firms are going after bigger pieces of the sports pie.

The most profitable law firm in the world Kirkland & Ellis has been beefing up its partner talent pool of sports specialists through poaching. Most recently the new hires are Jason Krochak from Proskauer Roseand Frank Saviano from Latham & Watkins. Both Prokauer and Latham have a huge presence in sports legalities. 

In its sports practice Sidley has gone from two lawyers to 70, spread out over 18 offices. 

This year eight Cravath partners have been listed in the Lawdragaon's list of top lawyers in sports as well as entertainment and media.

So, here is Paul, Weiss. It's playing on a crowded field of global law firms determined to increase market share and their branding in the sports category. Will the firm come up with surprise moves, as it had in its multiple talent raids of Kirkland & Ellis for its London office? Lots of money is to be made. 

Confidential tips about Paul, Weiss are welcome. So are bylined articles/op-eds. Please contact Jane Genova janegenova374@gmail.com or text 203-468-8579.

Thrown off your game, maybe the first time since you started working? You made all the right moves and then the world moved in another direction.

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