For 150 years, Proskauer has helped define – and helped clients navigate – nearly every emergent field of law.
Throughout our history, the issues may have changed, but what has not is how our work continues to shape the future.
1875
1930
Roots of the Firm
Founder William R. Rose
1875
A Brave Tradition Begins
William R. Rose, just 21 years of age, opens his law office at 320 Broadway in New York City. At that time, his name didn’t carry much weight, and he possessed little in the way of connections. But he was someone who put the needs of clients first, who put in the work to understand clients’ businesses and was a trusted partner clients could turn to for advice beyond just legal counsel.
“My father was a man of impeccable honesty and one to whom others turned unfailingly and trustingly for advice and counsel, both in their business and in their personal affairs.”
1875
Gibson Putzel
1878
Forming a True Partnership
Rose’s friend Gibson Putzel joins as a partner to form Rose & Putzel. Rose concentrates on real estate and personal planning, while Putzel specializes in litigation and corporate matters.
William Rose's grandfather clock still chimes proudly in our New York office
1878
1885
When Rose & Putzel celebrate their 10-year anniversary, the Firm consists of two partners and a handful of clerks. Early clients were often family-owned companies in industries such as retail, textiles, real estate and brewing.
Metropolitan Opera, circa early 1900s
Charles Frohman
1885
Center Stage in Entertainment
The Firm represents colorful theatrical impresarios of the 19th century, including costume designers Wolf and Henry Dazian; Maurice Grau, manager of the Metropolitan Opera; and legendary theatre producer Charles Frohman, who co鈥慺ounded the Theatrical Syndicate and managed major stars like Ethel Barrymore and Maude Adams.
Maude Adams as Peter Pan
THEN
NOW
Media & Entertainment
The earliest case on record at the Firm relating to the entertainment business is Dazian et al. v. Haines, an 1885 lawsuit concerning the payment for costumes for an opera entitled Trip to Africa.
Later on, Judge Proskauer represents Warner Bros. and would be a “constant and devoted visitor” at Carnegie Hall, where he served as a board member for many years. The famed conductor Bruno Walter was a client, as was the young upstart who became famous in his own right after conducting a nationally televised New York Philharmonic concert, Leonard Bernstein.
The Firm’s entertainment practice represents notable artists in the music and motion pictures industry. The Firm handled matters for the estates of Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and Run DMC’s Jam Master Jay. In 2014, the Firm obtains dismissal of a copyright infringement case for Lady Gaga and succeeded in high鈥憄rofile matters for Madonna and U2. Additionally, the Firm represents prestigious entertainment industry organizations and entities such as the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (the “GRAMMYS”), Sony Music Entertainment, Netflix, Hulu, iHeartMedia, Miramax, FanDuel, Warner Bros. Discovery and many more.
1885
The Fountain in Siegel-Cooper & Co. Department Store, circa 1900
1895
Our Roots in Real Estate
The Firm helps Henry Siegel acquire and construct the massive Siegel-Cooper & Co. Department Store on New York City’s 6th Avenue “Ladies Mile”, beginning the Firm’s representation of department stores.
Known as “The Big Store," Siegel-Cooper & Co. Department Store had nearly 16 acres of floor space, was able to accommodate over 190,000 visitors each day and housed a telegraph office, grocery store, several restaurants, foreign-money exchange, stock-trading services, a dentist and an advertising agency. “Meet me at the fountain” was a popular saying in New York referring to the landmark fountain in the lobby.
Ladies' Mile circa 1890s
1890s
Trusts & Estates Litigation Creates New York Institution
Beginning a tradition of litigating significant cases, the Firm takes on the representation of a trust created by Samuel J. Tilden, former governor of New York and 1876 candidate in one of the most contested presidential races in U.S. history. The case is settled in 1891 and helps create the New York Public Library, a long-time client of the Firm.
Construction of New York Public Library, circa 1908
THEN
NOW
High-Stakes Litigation
The first litigated matter in which the Firm appears as counsel of record is an action in the New York State Supreme Court in Schenectady County in 1880. But it is when Judge Proskauer joins the Firm that, as partner Alfred Appel described it, “the breadth of matters that got handled changed.” Judge Proskauer was known as one the greatest litigators in America, representing notable clients like Warner Bros. and National City Bank (now Citigroup).
The Firm’s prominence as a home for distinguished courtroom lawyers continues to this day, representing prestigious clients and handling precedent-setting, cross-border litigation. We’ve argued major cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, from representing publisher Simon & Schuster on its challenge to New York’s “Son of Sam” crime victim compensation legislation and, Yeshiva University on its position that faculty members were not protected under Federal Labor law. In recent years, we secured decisive victories for Gilead Sciences in a $3.6 billion case and Wayne-Sanderson Farms in a $48 billion case, the largest antitrust case in the U.S. food industry.
1895
1900s
By the early 1900s, the Firm’s client list has grown to represent a diverse array of industries, including cigars and tobacco, department stores, theatrical, silks and other textiles, beers and liquors, clothing and real estate, as well as some more niche sectors like cutlery, chemicals, furniture, diamond cutters and... feathers.
American Exchange National Bank, New York, circa 1913
1901
The Firm moves from 261 Broadway to the newly constructed American Exchange National Bank building at 128 Broadway. William Rose serves on the bank’s board of directors.
THEN
NOW
Global Finance
Our Firm is deeply immersed in the evolution of the finance industry. Our Global Finance practice continues a legacy that was built in the heart of New York’s financial district. In 1901, our Firm moved into a new office at 128 Broadway, occupying space above the American Exchange National Bank. Through its successors — the American Exchange-Pacific National Bank, Irving Trust Company and Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (BNY) — the bank remains a client to this day.
For 150 years, we have helped shape the future of the finance industry, working on pioneering structures and products in partnership with our clients across territories and asset classes. We are constantly refining our client offerings and service delivery to meet the needs of our clients.
Our team provides counsel across a wide range of challenges and opportunities facing the financial sector, with market-leading expertise in leveraged finance, private credit, fund finance, corporate finance, secondaries, workouts and restructurings, investment grade and commercial lending, structured products and specialty financings such as real estate and sports financing.
By representing both lenders and borrowers, we are able to appreciate critical deal points from the perspective of all parties to the transaction. Many of our lawyers formerly worked for regulators, prosecutors, general counsel and compliance officers, giving our team insights into the objectives and priorities of regulators, as well as an understanding of the industry’s history and potential developments.
1901
Benjamin G. Paskus
1908
Rose & Paskus
Following the sudden death of Gibson Putzel, Rose invites Benjamin G. Paskus to become a partner. The Firm is renamed Rose & Paskus.
Firm letterhead circa 1900s
Shaping the Future
Founded on a Handshake
Rose & Putzel had been founded on a handshake, without any written agreement. But tragedy struck on October 20, 1907 when Gibson Putzel died suddenly of a heart attack.
At the time, Benjamin Paskus was assisting Putzel in a plan to merge the firms of Alexander Piece Dye Works and Boettger Dye Works to form United Piece Dye Works. The clients, the Blum family, were impressed that Mr. Paskus was able to successfully and decisively carry on Mr. Putzel’s work and complete the negotiations. The Blums not only remained regular clients of the Firm but would go on to introduce many future clients to the Firm as well.
1908
1913
Tax Adjustment
Following the ratification of the 16th Amendment, Benjamin Paskus seizes on the opportunity to become one of the first lawyers to specialize in U.S. federal income tax law. Paskus’s tax advice was so in demand, that clients waited in the lobby of his residence just to accompany him to work.
Washington Evening Star cartoon responding to the introduction of income tax on November 3, 1913
1913
Interior of a crowded bar moments before midnight, June 30, 1919, when prohibition went into effect New York City
1919
Prior to Prohibition, the Firm represents a number of breweries, including Lembeck & Betz, Congress, Lion, Bernheimer & Schwartz and Doelger.
1920s
Among the early movie studios represented by the Firm is Famous Players Lasky (forerunner of Paramount), when it acquires client The Frohman Company in the 1920s.
Famous Players Lasky Corporation Advertisement, circa 1919
1919
Edmund Gillet
1920s
French Connection
The Firm represents French industrialist Edmond Gillet in successful joint ventures with Dupont, leading to the Firm becoming counsel in the U.S. to a number of French concerns. Rose and Paskus meet Gillet through the Blum family, whom they represent in the silk dyeing industry. Their joint ventures with Gillet and Dupont help introduce French synthetic fabric technologies to the U.S. and plant the seeds of the Firm’s connection to Paris.
Dupont Plant, circa 1920s
Alfred L. Rose, circa 1904
1920
Franklin D. Roosevelt
1924
The “Happy Warrior”
Judge Proskauer authors the “Happy Warrior” speech delivered by Franklin D. Roosevelt, nominating New York State Governor Al Smith for the presidency in 1924, and assisted Smith in his fight against religious bigotry in the 1928 presidential campaign.
One of Roosevelt’s most famous speeches, “The Happy Warrior,” was based on the poem “Character of the Happy Warrior” by William Wordsworth. Roosevelt, coming off a failed vice-presidential bid four years earlier, was reluctant to use the speech, fearing it was too literary for politicians. But Judge Proskauer persevered and the speech — which was delivered as written — elevated Roosevelt to the national political stage.
Judge Proskauer golfing with Governor Al Smith and others
1924
1929
A Pioneering Move in Retail
Building on its work with Henry Siegel, the Firm forms the Federated Department Stores holding company, bringing together many of the Firm’s department store clients, including Filene’s, Abraham & Straus, F&R Lazarus and, shortly after, Bloomingdale’s.
The Firm represented many of the major department stores of the day. In addition to Federated Department Stores, other retail clients included Kaufmann’s, Gimbels and May Department Stores. May grew from a small Leadville, Colorado dry goods business to become one of the nation’s largest and best-known department store chains. Alfred Rose served as a director of May Department Stores for many years.
In 2005, Federated and May would merge and are now known as Macy’s.
Roxy Theatre, New York City, 1927
1929
Bankruptcy and the Great Depression
During the Great Depression, the Firm plays a role in several notable bankruptcies, including the Roxy Theatre Corporation, The Harriman Bank and the collapse of the International Match Company empire of Swedish financier Ivar Krueger.
Shaping the Future
Seizing Restructuring Opportunities
Following a scandal in the administration of bankruptcies in New York, client Irving Trust was appointed by the United States District Court for the Southern District to handle all bankruptcy cases in the district. The Firm seized on the opportunity to significantly expand its bankruptcy work, despite a previous lack of experience in bankruptcy cases.
Since then, the Firm has continued to play a pivotal role in a number of complex and high-profile matters related to stressed and distressed situations, corporate governance, insolvency and bankruptcy.
In 2022, the Firm would procure a historic debt restructuring on behalf of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico. In negotiating a historic Plan of Adjustment, which was confirmed by U.S. District Court, this first territorial debt restructuring in the history of the United States was a critical victory for Puerto Rico, putting an end to its four-year bankruptcy, cutting billions in debt, fixing a broken pension system and returning the Commonwealth to balanced budgets. The Firm went on to prevail in the Supreme Court of the United States on behalf of the client in an appeal concerning the Board’s sovereign immunity.
1929
1930
1970
The Proskauer Era
1930
At the beginning of the Great Depression, Judge Joseph M. Proskauer, realizing “that by instinct I was an advocate,” resigns as an associate justice of the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court to join the Firm. The Firm is renamed Proskauer, Rose & Paskus.
By 1930, Judge Proskauer had already enjoyed what would have amounted to three wildly successful careers. He had risen to the top ranks of a thriving law firm, had become a trusted advisor to Al Smith, four-term Governor of New York, and had won a reputation as one of the most astute jurists in the country.
When Proskauer joins the Firm, he becomes the highest paid lawyer in New York City and ushers in a new level of excellence. Walter Mendelsohn remarked, “Proskauer brought in, not only a new level, but the top level of clientele in this world.”
Judge Joseph M. Proskauer
Caricature of Joseph M. Proskauer during Al Smith's gubernatorial years
“Proskauer was one of the greatest lawyers in America. He was superb. Words can’t describe how good he was as a lawyer, as a teacher, as a human being.”
1930
Alfred Appel organizes Hermès of Paris, Inc. as a New York corporation for the Firm’s French client Hermès. The Firm’s relationship with Hermès is believed to be the Firm’s longest continuous client.
French advertisement for Hermès luxury sportswear, 1930s
1930
National City Bank, 415 Broadway, New York, 1927
1930s
Among the cases Judge Proskauer considers his most significant is the representation of National City Bank (now Citigroup) in lawsuits seeking recovery of confiscated assets following the Russian Revolution.
Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney with niece, Gloria, circa 1934
1934
The “Trial of the Century”
The custody battle for Gloria Vanderbilt attracts worldwide media attention.
Gloria Vanderbilt’s aunt, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, prevailed over the child’s mother in the ‘trial of the century’. The following year, Mrs. Whitney retained Judge Proskauer, who successfully fought the appeals.
Mrs. Whitney wrote Proskauer a letter of gratitude afterward saying, “I want Gloria to meet you later and realize what you have done for her.” As part of his fee, Judge Proskauer obtained permission to fish in Mrs. Whitney’s trout stream near his Lake Placid home.
1934
1939
Strength in Labor & Employment Law
Burton A. Zorn establishes the Firm’s labor department. Representing clients such as United Parcel Service and Metropolitan Life, the Firm begins decades of leadership in this important area of law.
Bloomingdale's store at 59th Street, New York City, circa 1930s
Shaping the Future
A Competitive Edge
In the late 1930s, Walter Mendelsohn represented Bloomingdale’s in proceedings before the New York State Labor Relations Board. The lawyer representing the Board was Burton A. Zorn. The proceedings led to the first collective bargaining unit at Bloomingdale’s.
It also led to the Firm recruiting Zorn to establish the Firm’s labor department. As Ed Silver recollected, “The Firm took a terrific beating in a number of those cases before the State Labor Relations Board, whose general counsel was Burt Zorn. And at some point, the Firm decided it had better bring in somebody who would stop the flow of defeats. And they offered Zorn a position here.”
THEN
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Labor & Employment
Ed Silver, the first Chair of the Firm, was Burton Zorn’s protégé. Under Silver’s leadership, the Firm continued to handle high-profile labor disputes for clients including the Metropolitan Opera, AT&T, American Airlines, the Harvard Club and a consortium of New York's private hospitals.
Today, Proskauer is the go-to employment counsel nationwide for global Fortune 500 corporations, major universities and professional sports leagues when reputations are on the line. Our multidisciplinary team of more than 150 lawyers has experience delivering solutions across every area of labor and employment law, earning a reputation for handling high-profile collective bargaining, labor disputes and investigations. Our prowess in the field consistently earns the highest accolades, receiving a top-tier nationwide ranking in Chambers USA and recognized as leaders by The Legal 500 United States and Benchmark Litigation.
1939
1930s
Judge Proskauer represents Warner Bros. in a stockholder lawsuit, where he proves that the creativity and financial assistance of the brothers enabled the company to survive after the advent of talking pictures and the Depression.
Warner Bros. First National Studios, Burbank, California, circa 1930s
1940
Wilbur Friedman writes the first pension plan for The New Yorker magazine. After joining the Firm in 1932, Friedman goes on to chair the tax department at Proskauer for 50 years, one of the longest tenures in New York City law firm history. Friedman also oversees Proskauer’s management from 1966-1982.
1940
1940s
After the occupation of France in WWII and due to the immense trust that his clients had in him, Walter Mendelsohn becomes the controlling owner of the U.S. assets of a number of French companies. The Firm represents Dannon Milk Products through the 1940s and 50s in a variety of corporate matters.
Walter Mendelsohn
Proskauer, Rose, Goetz & Mendelsohn Reception, circa 1942
1942
The Firm is renamed Proskauer, Rose, Goetz & Mendelsohn.
Norman Goetz
1942
1948
A Legacy of Public Service
Among Judge Proskauer’s proudest achievements was his role as one of the authors of the United Nation’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which proclaims the inalienable rights of all people.
In 1945, Judge Proskauer, at the request of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, served as one of the consultants to the United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco. Thanks to the persuasive efforts of Judge Proskauer and the other consultants, the 1945 UN Charter adopted specific human rights provisions, which ultimately led to the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948 by the UN General Assembly.
Eleanor Roosevelt and Judge Proskauer
“If there is to be freedom in this world, and peace, human rights must be safeguarded and there must be machinery within the United Nations to promote such freedom, to make human rights a living reality.”
Eleanor Roosevelt holding a copy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, November 1949
1948
1950s
Judge Proskauer serves as Chairman of the New York State Crime Commission, which plays a significant role in combating organized crime in New York, leading to the creation of the Waterfront Commission.
Judge Proskauer being sworn in as Chairman of the New York State Crime Commission
1954
George M. Shapiro, counsel to Governor Thomas E. Dewey, leaves public service and joins the Firm as a partner.
George M. Shapiro
1954
Judge Joseph M. Proskauer
1950s
Judge Proskauer, nearing his 80th birthday, successfully tries his last major case. The massive Caltex litigation concerns the sale of Saudi Arabian oil to European countries under the Marshall Plan.
300 Park Avenue, 1955
1955
When the Firm moves to 300 Park Avenue, it has 17 partners.
1955
The First Summer Program
The Firm starts its first summer program with two second-year law students: Howard A. Shapiro and Marc Franklin.
Today the Firm receives thousands of applications and welcomes around 60 summer associates each year. The program is ranked in the Top 10 by The American Lawyer and Vault.
Associates working in the Proskauer library, circa 1950s
1955
Eilat-Haifa Oil Pipeline
1960s
The Firm participates in negotiations on behalf of investors in the Eilat-Haifa oil pipeline in Israel. This brings in new international clients, including Edmond de Rothschild, and expands the Firm’s involvement in European matters.
George Gallantz
1963
The Sports Law Firm
George Gallantz joins Proskauer in 1963 and, with his leadership, begins representing the National Basketball Association (NBA). Gallantz helps grow the practice from representing the NBA into a division that represents the big four professional sports leagues in a variety of legal concerns. Proskauer’s sports practice grows into a powerhouse and is recognized as "the most powerful law firm in sports" by Sports Illustrated.
NBA, circa 1960s
THEN
NOW
Sports
When the Firm began representing the NBA, there were only nine teams in the league. The Firm helped grow the NBA into a global powerhouse, advising the league and its teams on a range of corporate matters, including buying and selling teams, financing arena development projects, structuring media rights agreements, collective bargaining negotiations and expansion.
Today, the Firm’s sports law practice has evolved with — and helped shape — the contemporary sports landscape. Following the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to allow states to legalize sports betting, the Firm represents The Stars Group in forming a landmark partnership with FOX Sports, a precedent-setting integration of sports media and betting. The Firm is also involved in such landmark deals as the sale of the Denver Broncos, the signing of Lionel Messi to MLS, the formation of the X Games League and the pioneering addition of limited partners to team ownership within the NFL.
Several of our former lawyers have become among the most powerful figures in sports, notably NBA Commissioner David Stern, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman.
1963
Ruth Schapiro, circa 1960s
1964
Championing Women
Tax attorney Ruth Schapiro becomes the first woman partner. Since 1992, the New York State Bar Association has awarded the Ruth G. Schapiro Memorial Award each year to honor lawyers who have made contributions to the concerns of women.
“I was given opportunities to be the lead lawyer and demonstrate what I could do professionally very early here. Of course, you have to seize the opportunity as well.”
Chiefs Meeting circa 1955
1960s
Passing the Torch
The Firm is led by a new management committee of Walter Mendelsohn, Wilbur H. Friedman, Alfred Appel, Charles Looker and Burt Zorn.
Judge Proskauer, Norman Goetz and Alfred Rose shift more of their focus to philanthropic endeavors.
1960s
Investing in the Arts
Proskauer lawyers helps to found Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA). The Firm rallies lawyers from other large law firms in New York City to create a network of volunteers providing free legal services to artists and cultural organizations.
1964
1970
2010
Growth of an International Law Firm
Judge Joseph M. Proskauer
1970s
The Proskauer Legacy
Judge Proskauer’s death in 1971 does not diminish the Firm’s prominence as a home for distinguished lawyers. The Firm continues to represent prestigious clients and handle precedent-setting litigation, many of which are argued before the U.S. Supreme Court.
When the Firm celebrates its 100th anniversary in 1975, it has 47 partners and just over 100 lawyers.
100th Anniversary, 1975
“This is not, and I trust will never be, a firm of individual stars, but an amalgam of fine, yes, great lawyers each of whom has contributed to our success.”
1970
Boca Raton Office
1977
Growing with Our Clients
The Firm responds to expanded practices and the growth of its client base. Boca Raton is the Firm’s first office outside New York. The Firm also opens an office in Washington, D.C.
The Capitol in Washington, D.C., 1977
Shaping the Future
Health Care Under the Microscope
In 1992, the Firm’s Washington, D.C. office grew substantially with the addition of the 19-lawyer firm Casson & Harkins, specialists in health care practice.
The Firm has built a sophisticated health care practice that combines specialized understanding of industry dynamics with diverse experience across other practice concentrations. Going beyond just providing legal counsel, the Firm acts as a trusted partner, advising everyone from service provider operators to investors and lenders on their most complex and consequential matters, including cutting edge-issues like biotechnology, telemedicine, technology and life sciences.
1977
1979
Handling Major Cross Border Litigation
Following the Iranian Revolution, Firm litigators successfully represent American investors before the Iran Claims Tribunal in the Hague.
The Hague
1979
Proskauer Goes West
As the result of the Firm’s growing entertainment and sports law practices, the Firm opens an office in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Office
Shaping the Future
Los Angeles
Today, the Firm’s Los Angeles office handles high-stakes litigation, big ticket M&A, cutting-edge employment law, and advises on the largest private client estates. From headline cases to billion-dollar deals, the world’s most recognizable names trust Proskauer with their most complex matters and their reputations.
Deeply committed to the LA community, Proskauer has been instrumental in bringing the 2028 Olympic Games to Los Angeles.
1979
Edward Silver, the first elected Chairman
1982
A Democratic Partnership
The Firm adopts a new management structure with a chairman and an executive committee elected by the partnership and subject to set term limits.
Ed Silver was the first Chairman of the Firm. He was followed by Stanley Komaroff, Alan Jaffe, Allen Fagin, Joseph Leccese, Steven Ellis and current Chairman Timothy Mungovan.
Club Med brochure cover, circa 1980s
1980s
The Firm is the architect of Club Med’s expansion in the Western Hemisphere, handling the initial public offering in the United States and numerous acquisitions.
1982
1991
European Expansion
Recognizing the importance of the Firm’s European clients and continued development of the global economy, the Firm opens its first European office in Paris, building on relationships that began in the 1920s.
1991
Landmark Free Speech Victory
The Firm represents publisher Simon & Schuster in challenging the constitutionality of New York State’s “Son of Sam” law. The U.S. Supreme Court sides with the Firm’s argument and rules the law violates the First Amendment.
1991
1997
Ushering in the Digital Age
The Firm changes its name to “PROSKAUER ROSE LLP” and launches proskauer.com. The Firm will go on to be recognized in the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers as one of the “Most Digital Firms.”
1585 Broadway
1990s
Commitment to Our Community
The Firm moves to 1585 Broadway in Times Square. At the request of The New York Times and the theater industry, the Firm organizes a Business Improvement District, now known as the Times Square Alliance, dedicated to improving the Crossroads of the World.
THEN
NOW
New York City
A 30-year effort to redevelop Times Square culminated in 2011, with the opening of Eleven Times Square. Proskauer becomes the first and largest tenant of the new, environmentally sustainable office tower.
With headquarters in New York City since 1875, the Firm has close, long-term relationships with many of the business, cultural and educational institutions that define the city. In addition to the New York Times and Broadway League, prominent New York clients of the Firm include the New York Stock Exchange, Lincoln Center, New York City Ballet, New York Public Library, Columbia University, Cooper Union, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Metropolitan Transit Authority, New York Yankees, New York Jets and the City of New York itself.
1997
2000
A Standard of Excellence
Celebrating its 125th anniversary, the Firm enters the new millennium with 149 partners and 525 lawyers.
125th Anniversary logo
“Our story, quite simply, is one of accomplishment and dedication: to a profession which exacts the highest standards of honesty and integrity; to our clients, who rely on us to champion their cause.”
2000s
Following the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, the Firm represents the owners of this iconic complex in years of litigation to recover insurance proceeds that will assist in the rebuilding of the site.
Construction at Ground Zero, New York City
2000
Boston Office
2004
New Offices and Industry-Leading Practices
The Firm opens its Boston office and quickly becomes the launching pad for the Firm’s industry-leading Private Credit practice.
The Firm opens its New Orleans office, specializing in labor and employment matters and all things ERISA.
New Orleans Office
Shaping the Future
Private Capital
Located in the heart of the city’s financial district, the addition of the Boston office helped the Firm take a leading role in the world of private equity fund formation and investing. And with the growth of the London office, the Firm has solidified its reputation as the place for private capital.
Advising large companies on major transactions remains a foundation of the Firm’s modern corporate practice. The Firm provides innovative solutions for cutting-edge clients at the intersection of private capital and the sectors in which they invest, helping them capitalize on market opportunities.
Firm lawyers bring diverse experience across industries, disciplines and geographies. With a focus on the industries and trends that will define clients’ futures, the Firm is able to offer an integrated platform that supports clients through the full lifecycle of their business.
2004
Firm forms a new Technology, Media and Communications Group
2005
Technological Progress and Innovation
The Firm forms a new Technology, Media & Communications Group, continuing its long history of helping clients make investments, launch products and services, structure agreements, resolve disputes and leverage new tools.
Shaping the Future
Proskauer+Tech
Proskauer helps clients navigate the complex issues that arise when business and technology intersect. From helping clients harness blockchain's potential, to making investments and leveraging new tools like generative AI, the Firm helps clients stay at the forefront even as technological advancements accelerate.
2005
Sao Paulo skyline
Strategic Global Presence
Further expanding its presence in key business markets around the world, the Firm opens offices in London, São Paulo, Chicago and Hong Kong.
London Office
THEN
NOW
London
Today, London has grown to become the Firm’s largest international office and second-largest office worldwide, with a headcount over 200. The vision was clear: build an office to serve asset managers and the private capital industry. That focus ensured strategic and sustainable growth, adding practices that supported the needs of clients.
In 2024, the Firm relocated to state-of-the-art offices at 8 Bishopsgate, offering an integrated platform supporting the full lifecycle of business needs for private capital and the sectors in which our clients invest.
Said Steven Davis, Co-Head of Proskauer’s London Office, “Proskauer is a destination firm for private capital. We know the dynamics and challenges of that industry and what our clients are looking for. If you look at who our clients are, they are global entities. They are looking at transactions everywhere, and we need to support them.”
2007
2010
2025
Proskauer Today
2013
Major Mergers
The Firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions Group completes landmark acquisitions by two major clients: Neiman Marcus by an investor group, including funds managed by Ares Management and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board ($6 billion); and Talecris by Grifols ($4 billion).
2010s
Proskauer For Good
The Firm appoints a dedicated pro bono partner to lead its global pro bono efforts, continuing Proskauer’s legacy: a firm of citizens whose perspective encompasses community service.
“Proskauer For Good” encompasses the Firm's pro bono and CSR programs to make a positive impact on the lives around us. In 2025, the Firm celebrates its 17th Annual Golden Gavel Awards. The awards recognize the achievements of colleagues who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to Pro Bono and Corporate Social Responsibility efforts.
Shaping The Future
Pro Bono
The Firm has long felt an obligation to help deliver justice, regardless of a client’s ability to pay.
Prominent pro bono work over the years has included the Iraqi Human Rights Project, helping secure asylum in the U.S. for Iraqis endangered as a result of assistance they provided to the U.S. and its allies during the Iraq War and playing a critical role in reuniting a family separated for three years at the US/Mexico border.
The Firm sponsored an Equal Justice Works Fellow at the ACLU Voting Rights Project; and co-represented Corey Hill before the U.S. Supreme Court. In Hill v. United States, the Court agreed with the Firm’s argument and rules all defendants sentenced after the enactment of the Fair Sentencing Act of 2010 are subject to the Act’s lower mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses.
2013
Shaping the Future
High Stakes Trials & Investigations
As important social change movements continue to shape society, workplace issues become more complicated, more nuanced and more sensitive than ever before. The depth of experience Proskauer has in high-profile matters across multiple industries means that there are very few issues that it has not already encountered and solved. The Firm achieves significant victories for organizations facing high-reaching, “bet the company” reputational risk claims.
When a reputation is on the line, the world’s leading organizations choose Proskauer because of its exceptional understanding of the subtleties of employment law and deep bench of litigators who operate with mastery and precision in the courtroom. Proskauer has defended employers at the state, federal and appellate levels; and, commensurate with its over 75-year reputation for handling robust investigation and addressing misconduct to create healthier work environments, the Firm develops and conducts customized anti-harassment training for many large corporations.
Trends in Private Credit Report
2017
Data-Driven Market Insights
The Firm releases its inaugural Trends in Private Credit report, providing annual insights and in-depth analysis for clients into market conditions and forecasts for the year ahead. Proskauer’s market-leading thought leadership in finance and private capital continues to expand with our Private Credit Insights and Investment Funds Annual Review.
Private Credit Insights Report
Private Investment Funds Annual Review
2017
2019
Setting Precedent in Sports Betting
Proskauer worked at the forefront of the evolving legal landscape of sports betting following the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to allow states to legalize sports betting. Proskauer represented The Stars Group in forming a landmark partnership with FOX Sports, launching FOX Bet. This deal marked one of the first major collaborations between a media company and a sports betting operator in the U.S. and set a precedent for the integration of sports media and betting.
2020s
The Firm responds quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic, mobilizing a cross-practice task force to address client issues and provide clients with real-time alerts, surveys and information to help navigate the crisis.
Proskauer’s COVID-19 Resource Center
2019
2021
Largest Ecommerce Take-Private Deal of the Year
The Firm represents Stamps.com in its $6.7 billion sale to Thoma Bravo, a preeminent software investment firm. The deal highlighted the singular and innovative focus on value maximization by the Stamps.com board, whom we assisted in creating a true contest between Thoma Bravo and another tech fund resulting in a red-hot bidding war, with all the drama of a Sotheby’s auction.
2021
Joint Ventures in Hospitality
Proskauer advises longtime client Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, in the creation, structuring and implementation of its global joint venture. The newly established lifestyle entity, known as Ennismore, is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality companies, with 87 properties and an additional 141 hotels in the pipeline.
2021
2022
Record-breaking Sports Deals
The Firm’s sports practice represents the Patrick D. Bowlen Trust in the US$4.65 billion sale of the Denver Broncos. Over the previous decade, the Firm represented clients in record-breaking sales of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Rockets, and Carolina Panthers.
Howard Ganz and Michael Cardozo
Top in Every League
Top in Every League
The Firm’s involvement with sports dates back to the 1940s, when the Firm represented athletes such as Leo “The Lip” Durocher and Rocky Marciano. Since then, the Firm’s client roster has grown to represent leagues, teams and other sports industry participants in transactions, negotiations and litigations that have come to define the business of sports.
Today, the world’s premier sports organizations turn to us for their most complex and consequential matters.
Clients have included the NBA, WNBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, MLS, NASCAR, ATP, WTA, USGA, as well as teams, owners, college conferences, media and marketing companies, financial institutions and private equity firms. Today, the world’s premier sports organizations turn to us for their most complex and consequential matters.
2022
Historic Debt Restructuring
Proskauer prevails on behalf of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico. The restructuring involved complex negotiations with multiple, divergent creditor groups. Proskauer led every mediation session, sometimes involving 120+ people. The plan helps to advance Puerto Rico’s future development and reentry into the capital markets.
2022
2023
Landmark Antitrust Victories
The Firm secures decisive victories for Gilead Sciences in a $3.6 billion case and Wayne-Sanderson Farms in a $48 billion case, the largest antitrust case in the U.S. food industry.
Paris Office
2023
Market-leading transactional team joins in Paris strengthening Proskauer’s European global finance and private capital platform.
2023
2024
A Market Leader
Proskauer’s market-leading Private Credit practice begins its 20th year with a dedicated global team of 90+ and prestigious clients such as Apollo, Antares, Ares, BainCapital, BlackRock, Blackstone, ICG, JP Morgan, KKR, Oaktree and TCW, Proskauer closes over 360 private credit deals in 2023 alone, with a total value of nearly $72 billion.
2024
Pioneering Triple Fundraise
The Firm acts as lead counsel on a pioneering triple fundraising for Hg. Over a period of 24 months, Hg Saturn 3, Hg Genesis 10 and Hg Mercury 4 all reach their hard caps and raise over $20 billion.
2024
Helping Clients Maximize Market Opportunities
Proskauer advises longtime client Ares Management Corporation on fundraising $15.3 billion in total equity commitments for its U.S. senior direct lending strategy, with the total capital base of the platform nearing $34 billion. At the time of closing, the fund was the largest in Ares’ history and the largest dedicated pool of capital in the private credit market overall.
2024
2025
The Firm starts its 150th year with over 800 lawyers in key financial centers around the world working seamlessly across practices, industries and jurisdictions with asset managers, private equity and venture capital firms, Fortune 500 and FTSE companies, major sports leagues, entertainment industry legends and other industry-redefining companies.
“We have always been at the forefront of the practice of the law on behalf of our clients. What makes the Proskauer story unique is a willingness to evolve in order to meet the market where it will be.”
Chair Tim Mungovan with Chair Emeriti Steve Ellis, Alan Jaffe, Allen Fagin and Joe Leccese and Managing Partner Ira Bogner
2025
Throughout our history, the issues may have changed, but what has not is how our work continues to shape the future.