July 7, 2025


Leading Appellate Litigator Joins Jenner & Block, Escaping Biglaw's Political Entanglements

In a significant move within the legal industry, Peter Davis, a renowned appellate litigator, has transitioned from Latham & Watkins to Jenner & Block, marking another chapter in the ongoing reshuffle prompted by political pressures on major law firms. Jenner & Block is celebrated for its robust appellate and Supreme Court practices, making Davis's addition a natural fit for the firm's ambitious legal trajectory.

Jenner & Block has recently been in the spotlight for its assertive stance against controversial executive orders aimed at penalizing firms that irk the administration. Unlike some of its peers in the Biglaw sector, Jenner & Block has not only resisted these governmental pressures but has also secured legal victories that affirm its commitment to constitutional principles.

The firm's co-managing partners, Ishan Bhabha and Randy Mehrberg, and Ian Heath Gershengorn, the co-chair of the Appellate & Supreme Court Practice, have all expressed their enthusiasm about Davis joining their team. They highlighted his exceptional experience at the Supreme Court and his deep understanding of constitutional law, which are deemed crucial as the firm navigates increasingly complex legal challenges.

Davis's departure from Latham & Watkins, which has recently agreed to a controversial $125 million deal with Donald Trump to support conservative causes, is seen as part of a broader industry trend. Many litigators are leaving firms that have capitulated to political demands, seeking professional environments that prioritize legal integrity over politically motivated agreements.

This shift is particularly poignant given the nature of Davis's expertise and the potential conflicts that arise when law firms engage in politically charged agreements. His move to Jenner & Block is not just a career change but a statement in a legal community deeply divided over its role and responsibilities in a politically charged environment.

As more litigators seek to align their careers with firms that uphold the rule of law without political compromise, the landscape of Biglaw may be facing a significant realignment. Peter Davis's move to Jenner & Block thus not only enhances the firm's legal arsenal but also underscores a growing preference among top-tier lawyers to practice in environments that foster true legal advocacy over political expediency.