New Orleans, a city rich in history and culture, is home to a robust legal community shaped by some of the largest and most influential law firms and organizations. Securing a position with these top employers often involves strategic networking and career moves, which can be significantly enhanced by partnering with a legal recruiter. Below we highlight the biggest employers in New Orleans’ legal sector, showcasing the firms and organizations that drive the city’s legal landscape.
Biggest Law Firms in New Orleans
- Jones Walker LLP: Jones Walker LLP, founded in 1937, is one of New Orleans’ largest and most respected law firms, employing over 370 attorneys. The firm offers a wide range of legal services with a strong presence in corporate law, litigation, and government relations. Notable for its involvement in significant corporate transactions and high-stakes litigation, Jones Walker is committed to excellence and a client-focused approach, making it a prominent employer in the city’s legal landscape.
- Phelps Dunbar LLP: Phelps Dunbar LLP, established in 1853, stands out for its comprehensive legal services and deep-rooted presence in New Orleans. With over 260 attorneys, the firm specializes in maritime law, insurance, labor and employment, and commercial litigation. Phelps Dunbar is known for its collaborative culture and dedication to client success, making it a desirable workplace for legal professionals. The firm has handled notable cases in maritime and insurance law, reinforcing its reputation for legal excellence.
- Adams and Reese LLP: Adams and Reese LLP is a full-service law firm with a significant footprint in New Orleans, founded in 1951. Known for its expertise in banking, construction, and healthcare law, the firm also excels in litigation and transactional matters. With over 300 attorneys, Adams and Reese’s commitment to community service and professional development makes it a top choice for lawyers seeking a dynamic and supportive environment. The firm has been involved in high-profile banking and healthcare cases, highlighting its industry influence.
- Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann LLC: Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann LLC, founded in 1929, is a premier New Orleans law firm recognized for its litigation prowess and business acumen. The firm provides specialized legal services in corporate law, real estate, and intellectual property. With a team of around 50 attorneys, their client-centered approach and reputation for legal excellence attract top legal talent. Stone Pigman has been involved in significant corporate litigation and intellectual property cases, solidifying its position in the legal market.
- Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC: Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz PC, established in 1888, is a nationally recognized law firm with a strong presence in New Orleans. The firm offers extensive legal services, including healthcare law, bankruptcy, and government affairs, with over 650 attorneys across multiple offices. Known for its innovative solutions and client advocacy, Baker Donelson provides a vibrant and challenging environment for its attorneys. The firm has been involved in major healthcare and bankruptcy cases, showcasing its legal expertise.
- Chaffe McCall LLP: Chaffe McCall LLP, one of New Orleans’ oldest law firms, was founded in 1826 and is known for its comprehensive legal services and deep ties to the community. Specializing in admiralty law, commercial litigation, and real estate, the firm employs around 100 attorneys. Chaffe McCall’s tradition of legal excellence and client service makes it a respected and influential player in the local legal market. The firm has handled notable admiralty and commercial litigation cases, reinforcing its historical significance.
- Liskow & Lewis: Liskow & Lewis, founded in 1935, is a distinguished New Orleans law firm with a strong focus on energy law, environmental law, and complex litigation. With over 140 attorneys, the firm’s expertise in these areas, combined with its commitment to client service and professional development, positions it as a leading employer in the city’s legal community. Liskow & Lewis has been involved in landmark energy and environmental litigation, highlighting its specialization in these critical sectors.
- Gordon Arata Montgomery Barnett: Gordon Arata Montgomery Barnett, established in 1892, is a prominent New Orleans firm known for its expertise in energy law, commercial litigation, and corporate transactions. The firm employs around 60 attorneys and is recognized for its collaborative culture and dedication to client success. Gordon Arata has been involved in significant energy sector cases and commercial litigation, making it an attractive workplace for attorneys seeking to advance their careers in a supportive environment.
- McGlinchey Stafford PLLC: McGlinchey Stafford PLLC, founded in 1974, is a versatile law firm with a strong presence in New Orleans. The firm offers a wide range of legal services, including consumer financial services, labor and employment, and public finance, with over 170 attorneys across multiple offices. McGlinchey Stafford’s innovative approach and commitment to diversity and inclusion make it a leading employer in the legal sector. The firm has handled high-profile consumer financial services cases, showcasing its legal prowess.
- Frilot LLC: Frilot LLC, established in 1995, is a well-respected New Orleans law firm specializing in litigation, particularly in the areas of product liability, environmental law, and labor and employment. The firm employs around 50 attorneys and is known for its aggressive representation and client-focused approach. Frilot LLC provides a dynamic and challenging environment for legal professionals, with a track record of handling significant product liability and environmental litigation cases.
New Orleans
Legal Recruiter Spotlight: YSR Search LLC
YSR Search was established in 2014 by Michael Harold who has over 2 decades of experience practicing law in New Orleans. YSR Search specializes in the placement of lawyers in all practice areas, including firms and some in-house counsel positions.
Biggest Companies Employing Lawyers
New Orleans is not only home to prominent law firms but also hosts major corporations that employ significant in-house legal teams. These companies span various industries, including energy, healthcare, finance, and shipping, creating diverse opportunities for legal professionals.
- Entergy Corporation: As a major energy provider founded in 1913, Entergy Corporation employs a large legal team to manage regulatory compliance, environmental law, and corporate governance. Their attorneys work on issues ranging from energy regulation to mergers and acquisitions, playing a crucial role in the company’s operations. Entergy’s legal department is involved in significant energy sector cases, reflecting the company’s industry leadership.
- Ochsner Health System: The largest healthcare provider in Louisiana, Ochsner Health System, founded in 1942, has a robust legal department that handles healthcare regulations, patient privacy laws, and employment matters. Their legal team plays a crucial role in navigating the complex healthcare landscape, supporting the organization in various legal aspects. Ochsner’s legal department has been involved in significant healthcare compliance and patient rights cases.
- Hancock Whitney Bank: Founded in 1883, Hancock Whitney Bank is a key financial institution in the Gulf South, requiring legal expertise in banking regulations, commercial transactions, and compliance. Their in-house attorneys ensure the bank operates within legal frameworks and manages risk effectively. Hancock Whitney’s legal team has handled major financial regulatory and commercial litigation cases, underscoring its importance in the financial sector.
- Hornbeck Offshore Services: Hornbeck Offshore Services, established in 1997, is a leading provider of offshore transportation services for the energy industry. The company has a robust legal team focusing on maritime law, regulatory compliance, and contractual matters. Their attorneys support operations in a highly regulated sector, handling significant maritime and energy-related legal issues.
- Tulane University: Tulane University, founded in 1834, is a major educational institution with a legal department addressing issues related to higher education law, employment, and research compliance. Their attorneys support the university’s mission and ensure legal compliance across various operations. Tulane’s legal team has been involved in notable higher education and research compliance cases.
- Laitram LLC: Laitram LLC, an innovative manufacturing company founded in 1949, relies on its legal department for intellectual property protection, commercial contracts, and employment law. Their legal professionals support the company’s diverse business operations, handling significant intellectual property and commercial litigation cases.
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center: The legal department at LSU Health Sciences Center, established in 1965, addresses healthcare law, research compliance, and employment issues, playing a vital role in supporting the institution’s educational and healthcare missions. Their attorneys handle significant healthcare compliance and research-related legal matters, reflecting the center’s importance in the healthcare sector.
These employers offer opportunities for professional growth, diverse legal challenges, and the chance to make a significant impact within their industries. Navigating the competitive job market and identifying the right fit can be complex, but partnering with a legal recruiter can significantly enhance your success. A recruiter provides personalized guidance, valuable industry insights, and access to exclusive opportunities, helping you secure your ideal placement in New Orleans’ vibrant legal community.
