March 17, 2026

With the legal landscape becoming increasingly competitive, the latest move by Reed Smith underscores a bold strategy: the firm has just unveiled a new Boston office, marking a significant expansion into one of America’s hottest legal markets. This strategic decision is not just about geography; it's a talent acquisition powerhouse, pulling in seasoned lawyers from seven of the Am Law 50 firms.
Boston's legal scene is buzzing more than ever, with a surge in sectors like finance, private equity, and life sciences. Reed Smith has seized this opportunity by assembling a roster of top-tier talent to establish a robust presence in the city. The office will feature specialists across various practice areas, ensuring a comprehensive service offering from day one.
Leading the charge are some notable names, including regulatory partner Grant Butler from K&L Gates and Omar Hemady, a fund formation and private equity expert from White & Case. They are joined by Matthew Hacker, an M&A specialist from Goodwin, and Ian Hohmeister, who brings his finance expertise from Morrison & Foerster. The team also includes employment litigator James Nicholas from McDermott.
Adding to this impressive lineup, Kevin Sullivan, formerly a co-chair at Weil’s private equity practice, will serve as a senior strategic adviser at Reed Smith. This group, complemented by promising associates from K&L Gates, Kirkland & Ellis, and Morrison Foerster, positions the firm to make a significant impact on the local market.
Julie Hardin, Reed Smith’s Americas managing partner, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, "Boston is a hub for the key practices where we are looking to grow. It makes sense for us to be in a market where there’s so much talent servicing clients in these areas."
This launch is part of a broader pattern of aggressive expansion for Reed Smith, which has recently opened several new offices globally. The firm's proactive approach to growth through lateral hiring and strategic office launches has solidified its status as a major player in the international legal arena.
Boston continues to attract major law firms, each vying for a slice of the lucrative market, and Reed Smith’s latest move is a clear indication that the city is now essential for firms aiming to be at the top of the legal game. With this new office, Reed Smith not only increases its geographic footprint but also enhances its service capabilities, setting a high bar for competitors.