Baltimore’s legal market is shaped by its diverse industries, from healthcare and finance to maritime and government. As Maryland’s largest city, Baltimore is home to several major employers that provide significant opportunities for legal professionals. The city hosts prominent law firms, corporate legal departments, and institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and Health System, which drive demand for specialized legal expertise.
Attorneys in Baltimore benefit from a dynamic market that blends historic institutions with emerging industries, offering a wide array of career paths. Whether working on groundbreaking healthcare policies, navigating corporate transactions, or addressing public sector needs, lawyers in Baltimore are positioned to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant and evolving legal landscape.
Biggest Law Firms in Baltimore
- Venable LLP: Founded in 1900 in Baltimore, Venable LLP has grown from a regional law firm to one of the largest in the country, boasting over 800 attorneys across 13 offices nationwide. The firm specializes in corporate law, intellectual property, complex litigation, and government relations. Venable has handled significant cases such as regulatory compliance for Fortune 500 companies and high-profile litigation in the financial services sector. It is consistently ranked among the top law firms by Am Law 100, emphasizing its influence in both Maryland and beyond.
- Miles & Stockbridge: Miles & Stockbridge, founded in 1932, is a regional powerhouse with approximately 200 attorneys. Headquartered in Baltimore, the firm maintains eight offices across the Mid-Atlantic. Known for its focus on business law, it assists clients in sectors ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to financial services. The firm has played a role in landmark commercial litigation cases and frequently ranks in the Am Law 200 for its robust client services and legal expertise.
- Whiteford, Taylor & Preston: Established in 1933, Whiteford, Taylor & Preston is a full-service law firm with over 175 attorneys. Based in Baltimore, the firm is recognized nationally for its work in bankruptcy, construction law, and labor litigation, earning Tier 1 rankings in these areas. It has represented high-profile clients, including governmental entities and major corporations, and has been at the forefront of litigation involving infrastructure development and large-scale commercial disputes.
- DLA Piper: As one of the largest global law firms, DLA Piper has roots in Baltimore through one of its predecessor firms. Established in 2005 following a merger, the firm now operates in over 40 countries and employs more than 4,000 attorneys. It provides services in corporate law, arbitration, real estate, and litigation. DLA Piper has represented multinational corporations in billion-dollar transactions and regulatory compliance issues, securing its spot as a top Am Law firm with annual revenues exceeding $3 billion.
- Baker Donelson: Founded in 1888, Baker Donelson is a prominent Southeastern law firm with over 650 attorneys across 22 offices, including Baltimore. Its practice areas include healthcare law, real estate, labor and employment, and corporate litigation. Baker Donelson is widely recognized for its expertise in healthcare transactions and litigation, serving as counsel to several top-tier medical institutions. The firm has also made Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list multiple times.
- Saul Ewing LLP: Saul Ewing LLP, established in 1921, operates across 18 offices with over 450 attorneys. The firm offers a wide array of legal services, from real estate and litigation to corporate restructuring. Following its 2023 merger with Freeman Freeman & Smiley, Saul Ewing expanded its reach to the West Coast. Known for its work in the energy and education sectors, the firm frequently handles significant matters for universities and renewable energy companies.
- Semmes, Bowen & Semmes: Founded in 1887, Semmes, Bowen & Semmes is one of Maryland’s oldest and most respected firms. With a strong focus on insurance defense, workers’ compensation, and corporate law, the firm has long-standing relationships with major insurance carriers and businesses in the region. Its small but effective team is known for cost-effective solutions and a client-first approach, making it a trusted name in the Mid-Atlantic legal landscape.
- Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler: Since its founding in 1972, Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler has built a reputation for excellence in corporate law, litigation, and bankruptcy. The firm is especially noted for its creditors’ rights work and has represented financial institutions and commercial lenders in complex bankruptcy cases. Its high-caliber legal work has earned recognition in Maryland and beyond, with accolades from Chambers USA for its corporate/M&A practice.
- Shawe Rosenthal LLP: Shawe Rosenthal LLP is a boutique firm specializing in labor and employment law, exclusively representing management. Established in Baltimore, the firm handles workplace compliance, union relations, and employment litigation for corporations ranging from regional businesses to multinational companies. Shawe Rosenthal is well-regarded for its proactive legal strategies and defense in discrimination and wage-and-hour cases.
- Duane Morris LLP: With origins dating back to 1904, Duane Morris LLP is an Am Law 100 firm with over 800 lawyers in offices across the U.S., including Baltimore. The firm excels in intellectual property, energy, and healthcare law. It has represented clients in groundbreaking biotech patent cases and energy infrastructure development. Duane Morris’ reputation as an innovative, client-driven firm is reinforced by its consistent top-tier rankings.
Baltimore
Baltimore’s legal market is rooted in its strengths in healthcare, government, and maritime industries. Lawyers in Baltimore often specialize in healthcare law, regulatory compliance, and labor and employment, serving prominent medical institutions like Johns Hopkins and local government agencies. The city’s port and shipping activities also create opportunities in maritime law and commercial litigation. Baltimore’s mix of established industries and public-sector work offers legal professionals a diverse and impactful environment for practice.
Biggest Companies Employing Lawyers
Securing a legal position at one of Baltimore’s top companies can be a competitive process, often requiring a combination of specialized expertise, networking, and strategic placement. Working with a legal recruiter can significantly improve your chances, helping you navigate opportunities and position yourself for success. Below are some of the biggest employers in Baltimore for legal professionals, showcasing the city’s diverse corporate and institutional landscape.
- Johns Hopkins University and Health System: Founded in 1876, Johns Hopkins is one of the most prestigious academic and healthcare institutions in the world, employing over 40,000 individuals. Its legal team tackles complex issues, including compliance in medical research, intellectual property for groundbreaking technologies, and employment law. The size and scope of the organization make it an excellent environment for multifaceted legal work.
- T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.: Founded in 1937, T. Rowe Price is a global investment management firm headquartered in Baltimore with approximately 7,000 employees. Its legal department specializes in securities regulation, compliance, and corporate governance, supporting the firm’s extensive portfolio of financial products. Lawyers here handle high-stakes regulatory matters and play a critical role in shaping the financial services industry.
- Under Armour, Inc.: Under Armour, founded in 1996, is one of the leading athletic apparel companies globally, with approximately 17,000 employees. The company’s legal team handles intellectual property, labor law, contracts, and international trade. Attorneys have the opportunity to work on high-profile projects involving global collaborations and endorsements, all within a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- McCormick & Company, Inc.: McCormick & Company, founded in 1889, employs approximately 14,000 individuals globally and is a leader in the spice and flavorings industry. Headquartered in Baltimore County, its legal team manages corporate governance, mergers, international trade, and food industry compliance. Attorneys work on cases with both local and global implications, reflecting the company’s significant presence in the market.
- Exelon Corporation (Baltimore Gas and Electric): Founded in 1816 as Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) and now a part of Exelon, this energy company employs over 34,000 people across its subsidiaries. Its legal team specializes in energy law, regulatory compliance, and environmental litigation. With a strong focus on renewable energy and sustainability, Exelon provides lawyers with opportunities to address innovative challenges in the energy sector.
- Sinclair Broadcast Group: Founded in 1986, Sinclair Broadcast Group is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the U.S., employing over 11,000 people. Headquartered near Baltimore, its legal department oversees broadcasting regulations, intellectual property, corporate litigation, and mergers. Sinclair’s extensive portfolio of local TV stations and sports networks offers attorneys opportunities to engage with high-profile cases.
- Northrop Grumman Corporation: Founded in 1939, Northrop Grumman is a global defense contractor employing over 95,000 people. Its Maryland presence is significant, with attorneys focusing on government contracts, cybersecurity law, and intellectual property. Lawyers have the chance to work on national security projects and cutting-edge legal issues tied to technological advancements.
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield: Founded in 1934, CareFirst is a leading regional healthcare insurer employing over 8,000 individuals. Its legal team navigates complex healthcare regulations, data privacy, and employment law. Attorneys play an essential role in ensuring compliance with evolving healthcare reforms at both the state and federal levels.
- Brown Advisory: Brown Advisory, founded in 1993, is a private investment firm specializing in wealth management with over 800 employees. Its legal team oversees compliance, financial regulations, and high-net-worth client accounts. Attorneys here focus on intricate fiduciary matters and help the firm maintain its status as a leader in financial planning.
- Laureate Education, Inc.: Founded in 1999, Laureate Education is a global network of higher education institutions employing approximately 12,000 people. Headquartered in Baltimore, its legal team handles education law, corporate compliance, and intellectual property. Due to the company’s international presence, attorneys often engage in cross-border legal work, making it a dynamic place to practice.
