Akin

Akin is a global law firm, based in the US but with a strong presence in the London legal market.

Founded in Dallas, Texas in 1945 by former FBI agents Robert Strauss and Richard Gump, the firm carved out a niche in political work from the outset. Strauss himself, who went on to become chairman of the Democratic National Committee and US Ambassador to the Soviet Union, played a key part in this - making connections that helped the firm build one of the largest lobbying practices in America.

Today, Akin combines its lobbying pedigree with strong expertise in restructuring, funds, energy, disputes, and international trade.

Despite its Texas roots, where it still maintains four offices, Akin now counts Washington DC as its headquarters, a city where it launched in 1971 with more expansion following. It opened in Brussels in 1989 and then in New York in 1993, Moscow the following year and London as well as Los Angeles in 1997.

Although it entered the international legal market later than many peers, Akin has thrived as a global player. The firm posted record results in its most recent financial year, growing revenue by 9% to $1.5 billion and increasing profit per equity partner by 23.5% to just under $4 million. It now boasts over 900 lawyers across 18 offices worldwide, according to Law.com.

One of the most significant moments in Akin’s recent history was the transformation of its London office, which went from modest outpost to City hub in 2014 with the arrival of 21 partners from collapsing US firm Bingham McCutchen.

Among them was top-tier restructuring lawyer James Roome, who became London senior partner and, together with managing partner Sebastian Rice, sought to turn the office into a major profit centre. London revenue quickly jumped and growth has continued ever since, with the office surpassing $200 million in income in 2024 - a 43% increase over two years.

Today, London is Akin’s third-largest base globally, housing some 150 lawyers - including around 50 partners. The team is currently based at 10 Bishops Square in Spitalfields, with a move to slightly larger premises at 155 Bishopsgate with 77,000 sq ft of space in the works for 2026.

Today, Akin finds itself at a transitionary moment in its history. In April 2025, Kim Koopersmith stepped down as chair after a decade-long tenure in which the firm’s revenue grew by 77% to $1.5 billion - and profit per equity partner doubled.

Koopersmith is succeeded by London-based Dan Walsh and New York-based Abid Qureshi, who took over as co-chairs in her wake. Speaking to The Lawyer, Walsh described the geographical pivot as a "strategic decision" that reflects the firm’s commitment to the transatlantic market and its aim of securing recognition as a member of the "global elite".