40 Facts About Winston & Strawn

Founding and History

Winston & Strawn has a storied past that dates back to the mid-19th century. Let's dive into some key moments and milestones.

1. Founded in 1853: Frederick H. Winston established the firm in Chicago. Silas H. Strawn joined in 1894, adding his name to the firm.
2. Union Stockyard and Transit Company: In 1894, the firm organized this significant entity, marking an early notable case.
3. War Powers Act Challenge: In 1944, they challenged this act on behalf of Montgomery Ward.
4. Atlanta Braves Relocation: Represented the Braves in 1966 litigation over their move from Milwaukee to Atlanta.

Global Presence

Winston & Strawn isn't just a local powerhouse; it has a significant international footprint.

5. Offices Worldwide: The firm operates in major U.S. cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, and internationally in Brussels, London, Paris, Shanghai, and Sao Paulo.
6. 900+ Attorneys: With a robust team of over 900 lawyers, the firm can handle a wide range of legal matters globally.

Litigation Practice

Known for its formidable litigation practice, Winston & Strawn has made a name for itself in the courtroom.

7. 100+ First-Chair Trial Lawyers: The firm boasts over 100 first-chair trial lawyers.
8. 165+ Trials in 10 Years: They have conducted more than 165 trials in the past decade.

Corporate & Transactional Practice

The firm excels in corporate and transactional law, helping clients close significant deals.

9. 300+ Corporate Attorneys: More than 300 attorneys focus on corporate and transactional matters.
10. 500+ Private Equity Deals: Since 2022, the firm has closed over 500 private equity deals.
11. $100+ Billion in Capital Markets: They have handled transactions exceeding $100 billion in capital markets.
12. 500+ Financings: The firm has completed over 500 financings.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Winston & Strawn is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

13. Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer: Sylvia James leads the firm's diversity initiatives.
14. Inclusive Culture: The firm aims to provide equal opportunities for all members to succeed.

Pro Bono Work

The firm has a longstanding commitment to pro bono work, reflecting its dedication to public service.

15. Pro Bono Committee: Chaired by Angela A. Smedley, ensuring alignment with the firm's values.
16. 2,300+ Hours Contributed: In 2023, the firm dedicated over 2,300 hours to helping others.

Notable Representations

Winston & Strawn has handled numerous high-profile cases throughout its history.

17. Beef Products, Inc.: Achieved a favorable settlement in a defamation lawsuit against ABC News in 2017.
18. NuvaRing Patent: Secured a judgment invalidating the patent for NuvaRing in 2016.
19. Verizon Acquisition of Yahoo!: Represented Verizon in this significant acquisition in 2016.
20. Omnicare Inc.: Obtained a win before the U.S. Supreme Court in 2015.

Antitrust and NCAA Case

The firm has been involved in significant antitrust litigation, particularly in the sports world.

21. NCAA Compensation Restraints: Led an antitrust lawsuit challenging NCAA compensation restraints on athletes.

Luxottica Group Acquisitions

Winston & Strawn has represented Luxottica Group in several major acquisitions.

22. U.S. Shoe Corporation: Handled the $1.6 billion hostile takeover in 1995.
23. Oakley Acquisition: Managed the $2 billion acquisition of Oakley in 2007.

Leadership Team

The firm is led by a strong and experienced leadership team.

24. Chairman Steve D’Amore: Heads the firm.
25. Co-Executive Chairs: Jeffrey Kessler and Dan Webb.
26. Managing Partner—International Affairs: Peter Crowther.
27. Managing Partner—External Affairs: Eva Davis.
28. Managing Partner—Internal Affairs: Dom DeChiara.
29. Chief Strategic Officer: Cardelle Spangler.

Notable Practice Areas

Winston & Strawn offers a wide range of legal services across various practice areas.

30. Admiralty and Maritime Law: Expertise in maritime legal matters.
31. Antitrust Law: Strong practice in antitrust litigation.
32. Appellate Practice: Skilled in handling appeals.
33. Arbitration: Proficient in arbitration cases.
34. Banking and Finance Law: Comprehensive services in banking and finance.
35. Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights: Expertise in insolvency and reorganization.
36. Biotechnology and Life Sciences: Specialized in biotech and life sciences.
37. Commercial Litigation: Strong commercial litigation practice.
38. Communications Law: Expertise in communications law.
39. Copyright Law: Skilled in copyright matters.
40. Corporate Law: Comprehensive corporate law services.

Winston & Strawn: A Legacy of Excellence

Winston & Strawn stands tall as a powerhouse in the legal world. With roots dating back to 1853, the firm has grown into a global entity with over 900 attorneys. Known for its litigation and corporate practices, the firm has handled high-profile cases like the defamation lawsuit for Beef Products, Inc. and the antitrust victory for Microsoft. The firm also champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, led by Sylvia James. Their commitment to pro bono work and corporate social responsibility is evident, with over 2,300 hours dedicated to helping others in 2023 alone. From representing Fortune 250 companies to engaging in community service, Winston & Strawn blends tradition with innovation. Their focus on client service, professional development, and community involvement makes them a leader in the legal industry. Winston & Strawn's legacy of excellence continues to thrive.