Page 37 - NYLJ Professional Excellence 2021

Inc. in one of the largest—if not the largest—cases involving From left, front, partners Patrick Rideout,
claims against mutual funds; and victories on behalf of FedEx Lara Flath, Alexander Drylewski; back, partners
and Nokia, among many others. Jennifer Permesly and Lauren Aguiar.

A prospective client in crisis calls and asks why your team Responses prepared by Skadden’s New York Litigation
should be retained. What is you answer? Our dedication to Group.
client service, with an emphasis on creativity, collaboration
and efficiency, has resulted in a proven record of success that
keeps clients coming back to us and also leads new clients to
knock on our door. Our experience navigating clients through
their most novel and complex legal issues positions us well over 90% of the firm’s New York litigation partners began
to create smart, unique strategies throughout the course their careers as Skadden associates, and we believe that
of litigation, particularly when faced with unprecedented our retention rate underscores our commitment to pro-
and unforeseen challenges. Our litigators are experienced fessional development, mentoring and career prospects.
in handling “bet-the-company” cases that demand a diverse During the COVID-19 pandemic, our one-of-a-kind in-house
range of skills, in and out of the courtroom. jury and trial consulting team quickly assembled training
opportunities for all New York litigators, including our
What traits do you respect most in opposing firms and law- junior attorneys, on best practices for conducting virtual
yers? We most respect adversaries who litigate vigorously, proceedings, including tips for conducting virtual trials and
while maintaining the highest respect for the legal profession depositions, arguing motions and holding virtual hearings.
and commitment to shaping and refining the law. We also are This unique training paid off, as our litigators handled at
deeply committed to staffing our matters with diverse teams, least 16 remote trials between April 2020 and April 2021.
and we respect firms that share the same values. Our trial consulting team also worked with our lawyers from
the early stages of a matter to craft winning strategies and
What is the firm doing to ensure future generations of provide instruction and guidance on current best practices in
litigators are ready to take the helm? We are proud that trial strategy.

Photo: Ryland West/ALM | October 2021 35