Poyner Spruill has four new attorneys in Charlotte. Shannon E. Hoff, Sarah L. DiFranco, Kelsey N.H. Mayo, and Charles A. “Chuck” Pettigrew have joined the firm as associates in four different fields. Hoff enters into the Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights group. DiFranco joins the Litigation group. Mayo will be the newest member of Employee Benefits group, while Pettigrew will practice in the Financial Services group.

Source:  www.charlotte.dbusinessnews.com

Steptoe & Johnson is proud to announce its newest member: Ronald S. Cooper. Cooper is currently the general counsel of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He will soon be partner at Steptoe.

Source:  www.law.com

Surprising to all, Akin Gump revenue’s increased by 3.8 percent in 2008, in spite of many partner defections last year. The firm earned $780.5 million in 2008. Akin lost 59 partners in 2008, more than any other firm, except for those that dissolved. Profits per partner was boosted by 16.7 percent to $1.41 million. It seems reasonable to conclude that because there were fewer partners, the division of profits meant more for all left.

Source:  www.amlawdaily.typepad.com

Chelsy Davy, Prince Harry’s former girlfriend has signed a training contract with firm Allen & Overy. Davy will officially join A&O proceeding the completion of the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law. Davy and Prince Harry ended their relationship a few weeks ago.

Source:  www.thelawyer.com

Bakers reports that the there is still a high demand for intellectual property services, despite the recent economic downfall.  There is even an increase in IP needs, because of the downfall.  There is more pressure to cut costs and time, and thus, some companies resort to infringement and counterfeiting.

Source:  www.au.legalbusinessonline.com