In a surprising turn of events, FisherBroyles, a distributed law firm experiencing years of rapid growth, is now grappling with a significant exodus of attorneys. This seismic shift comes after two former managing partners boldly left the firm to spearhead a groundbreaking legal venture, officially unveiled as Pierson Ferdinand LLP this Tuesday.
Pierson Ferdinand LLP’s Grand Entrance
In a strategic move, Pierson Ferdinand LLP made a resounding entrance into the legal arena, boasting commitments from more than 130 lawyers who defected from FisherBroyles. The new firm, led by former FisherBroyles co-chairmen Michael Pierson and Joel M. Ferdinand, is set to reshape the competitive landscape.
FisherBroyles New Firm Launch : FisherBroyles’ Headcount Halved
All lawyers joining Pierson Ferdinand LLP are partners, a departure that will nearly halve FisherBroyles’ headcount. The distributed model, where attorneys operate location-independently, either virtually or in-office, will undergo a significant transformation with this mass exit. FisherBroyles, with just under 300 lawyers at the close of 2022, faces a notable setback.
Pierson Ferdinand LLP’s Leadership Lineup
The leadership at Pierson Ferdinand LLP is robust, featuring former FisherBroyles luminaries Michael Pierson and Joel M. Ferdinand, along with Managing Partner and co-general counsel Landon Speights, Chief Financial Officer Meredith Mendes, and Matthew Bradley, the chief operating officer for business operations. Ferdinand will also serve as co-general counsel.
Embracing FisherBroyles’ Legacy Model
Pierson Ferdinand LLP plans to embrace FisherBroyles’ distributed model, characterized by a virtual workplace. Michael Pierson expressed pride in the venture, stating, “We have put our people, culture, and clients above everything else,” foreseeing a smooth transition and seamless client service at Pierson Ferdinand.
FisherBroyles New Firm Launch : Hallmarks of Pierson Ferdinand LLP
The new firm pledges commitment to innovation, respect, diversity, and inclusion as its core values, intending to efficiently practice law and yield robust results for clients. Covering over 80 practice areas and 20 legal markets, Pierson Ferdinand LLP aims to leave an indelible mark.
A Blow to FisherBroyles’ Growth Trajectory
The emergence of Pierson Ferdinand LLP deals a significant blow to FisherBroyles, disrupting its continued growth since its inception in 2002. Having entered the Am Law 200 in 2021, FisherBroyles experienced a slowdown in 2022, reporting year-end revenue at $135 million, with headcount slightly falling from 295 to 291.
