Ashurst Perkins Coie and Squire Patton Boggs each poach a litigation partner from Clayton Utz as Australian disputes market heats up
International firms Ashurst Perkins Coie and Squire Patton Boggs have each recruited a litigation partner from Australian firm Clayton Utz, as firms operating in Australia move to strengthen their disputes practices. The back-to-back lateral moves signal sustained demand for senior disputes talent in the Australian market and add to the volatility already visible in London's lateral hiring market, where the report notes that Kirkland & Ellis and Paul Hastings have frequently been at the centre of the action. No financial terms were disclosed.
Why this matters
Two simultaneous partner departures from one firm to rival international platforms is a clear signal that global firms see the Australian disputes market as a growth opportunity worth investing in at senior level. The pattern mirrors the broader international trend of US-affiliated firms expanding their litigation footprint in common-law jurisdictions outside their home market. For Clayton Utz, losing two disputes partners in quick succession creates both a competitive gap and a retention challenge across the partnership. The concurrent reference to London lateral volatility centred on Kirkland & Ellis and Paul Hastings suggests the cross-border disputes talent market is tightening simultaneously across multiple jurisdictions.
On the Ground
The hires activate international arbitration, commercial litigation, and cross-border disputes work at both Ashurst Perkins Coie and Squire Patton Boggs. Client demand for experienced disputes partners, particularly those with established books of business, remains high as corporates face complex multi-jurisdictional risk. A trainee on this beat would track the incoming partners' practice profiles, map their likely client followings, and monitor whether further associate moves accompany the departures.
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“Why are international firms investing in Australian disputes practices right now, and what does it mean for domestic firms like Clayton Utz?”
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