January 20, 2026

Goodbye McGlinchey Stafford, Hello Womble Bond Dickinson! In a significant shift within the legal sector, Womble Bond Dickinson has captured a remarkable pool of talent following the collapse of midsize firm McGlinchey Stafford. This strategic acquisition promises to bolster Womble Bond Dickinson's capabilities across various legal domains. [Read more about this development here](https://abovethelaw.com/2026/01/biglaw-firm-swoops-in-as-midsize-firm-collapses-scooping-up-its-lawyers/).
Reagan-Appointed Judge Accuses Trump Administration Of Conspiracy Against The First Amendment In a startling accusation, a federal judge appointed during the Reagan era has charged the Trump administration with conspiring against the First Amendment. This serious allegation underscores ongoing tensions between the judiciary and former governmental officials over constitutional rights. [Details of the accusation can be found here](https://abovethelaw.com/2026/01/federal-judge-accuses-trump-team-of-conspiring-against-the-first-amendment-doj-shrugs/).
Willkie Farr Hit With $735M Fraud Lawsuit The legal woes for Willkie Farr have deepened with a staggering $735 million fraud lawsuit. This case is not only significant in terms of the financial figures involved but also as a critical moment for legal accountability and corporate governance. [Explore the full story here](https://abovethelaw.com/2026/01/willkie-farr-hit-with-735-million-fraud-lawsuit/).
University Of Arkansas At Fayetteville Students Protest Firing Of Dean Emily Suski The firing of Dean Emily Suski has sparked a strong response from students at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, who are standing up for what they perceive as a crucial free speech issue on campus. This protest highlights the broader cultural battles playing out in educational institutions across the nation. [Learn more about the student protests here](https://abovethelaw.com/2026/01/law-students-protest-culture-war-dean-firing/).
These unfolding stories reflect a dynamic period in the legal field, characterized by significant firm transitions, high-stakes litigation, and vigorous defenses of constitutional rights. As these situations develop, they will undoubtedly continue to influence the legal landscape and broader societal norms.