What's Happening?
Devika Kornbacher, the managing partner of Clifford Chance's Houston office and co-chair of its global tech group, has left the firm to join a boutique law firm in Austin. Kornbacher, a seasoned technology and intellectual property lawyer, has joined Huggins Reddien Kornbacher, a 16-member boutique firm, to focus on tech commercialization and data law. Her departure marks a significant shift as she aims to engage in more hands-on legal work and leverage technological tools to enhance her practice. Kornbacher played a pivotal role in establishing Clifford Chance's Houston office in 2023, expanding its team significantly. Her move reflects a broader trend where boutique firms are increasingly attracting tech clients by offering specialized, unbundled
legal services.
Why It's Important?
Kornbacher's transition to a boutique firm underscores a growing trend in the legal industry where smaller firms are gaining traction by offering specialized services, particularly in the tech sector. This shift is significant as it challenges the traditional full-service model of larger law firms, suggesting a change in client preferences towards more tailored legal solutions. The move could influence how legal services are structured, especially with the integration of artificial intelligence and other technological advancements. For tech companies, having legal counsel that deeply understands technology and can operate at their pace is crucial, potentially leading to more innovation and efficiency in legal processes.
What's Next?
As Kornbacher settles into her new role, it is anticipated that Huggins Reddien Kornbacher will continue to expand its client base in the tech industry, leveraging her expertise and connections. The firm's focus on tech transactions and data law positions it well to attract startups and established tech companies seeking specialized legal services. This move may prompt other legal professionals to consider similar transitions, potentially leading to a more fragmented but specialized legal market. Clifford Chance will need to address the gap left by Kornbacher's departure and may seek to reinforce its tech group to maintain its competitive edge.
