Buffalo, New York, boasts a dynamic legal market shaped by the city’s industrial roots, growing healthcare sector, and evolving economic landscape. As a key regional hub, Buffalo’s largest employers span diverse industries, from healthcare and banking to manufacturing and education, creating a broad range of opportunities for legal professionals.
The city’s legal market is driven by the need for expertise in areas such as corporate law, healthcare regulations, and labor law, reflecting Buffalo’s ongoing economic revitalization. Lawyers in Buffalo have the chance to engage with complex legal matters in a supportive community, contributing to both the local economy and the broader legal landscape of Western New York.
Biggest Law Firms in Buffalo
- Hodgson Russ LLP: Founded in 1817, Hodgson Russ LLP is one of the oldest law firms in the United States and a cornerstone of Buffalo’s legal community. The firm has over 200 attorneys across multiple offices, including New York City and Toronto, making it a major player in both national and international legal markets. Hodgson Russ is known for its work in tax law, cross-border matters, and complex litigation, with clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups. The firm’s longevity and reputation for excellence have earned it a place among the most respected law firms in the region.
- Phillips Lytle LLP: Phillips Lytle LLP, established in 1834, is a leading full-service law firm with over 180 attorneys. With a strong presence in Buffalo and additional offices across the Northeast, the firm is recognized for its expertise in areas such as corporate law, environmental law, and intellectual property. Phillips Lytle is particularly noted for its work with clients in the energy and financial sectors. The firm’s commitment to client service and legal innovation has earned it national recognition, including rankings in Chambers USA and The Best Lawyers in America.
- Barclay Damon LLP: Barclay Damon LLP is a prominent AM Law 200 firm with roots dating back to 1855. With more than 300 attorneys across 12 offices in the Northeastern United States and Toronto, the firm is known for its comprehensive legal services, including corporate, litigation, and regulatory law. Barclay Damon is particularly strong in energy and environmental law, representing major utilities and energy companies. The firm’s size and reach make it a key player in the legal market, with a reputation for delivering high-quality legal services to a diverse clientele.
- Lippes Mathias LLP: Lippes Mathias LLP has rapidly grown into one of the largest law firms in Buffalo, with over 135 attorneys across multiple offices in the U.S. and Canada. The firm was established in 1965 and is recognized for its work in corporate law, real estate, and litigation. Lippes Mathias has a strong focus on serving clients in the financial services, technology, and healthcare sectors. The firm’s inclusion in the NLJ 500 list of the largest U.S. law firms highlights its significant growth and presence in the legal market.
- Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC: Founded in 1897, Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC is a well-established law firm with over 250 attorneys across its offices in New York, Florida, and Kansas. The firm is known for its expertise in labor and employment law, healthcare law, and education law, making it a go-to firm for institutions and employers across the region. Bond’s client base includes educational institutions, healthcare providers, and public and private companies, reflecting its broad reach and deep expertise in addressing complex legal issues.
- Rupp Baase Pfalzgraf Cunningham LLC: Rupp Baase Pfalzgraf Cunningham LLC, founded in 2000, has quickly risen to become one of the top law firms in Buffalo. With over 46 attorneys, the firm is recognized for its innovative approach and strong focus on client service. Rupp Baase specializes in areas such as commercial litigation, insurance defense, and employment law. The firm’s growth and success have earned it a reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking law firm in Western New York.
- Hurwitz & Fine, P.C.: Hurwitz & Fine, P.C., established in 1977, is a leading law firm in Buffalo with more than 40 attorneys. The firm is known for its strong litigation practice, particularly in insurance defense, commercial litigation, and municipal law. Hurwitz & Fine’s expertise extends to business law, real estate, and estate planning, serving a diverse range of clients across New York State. The firm’s commitment to excellence and client-focused approach has made it a respected name in the Buffalo legal community.
- Connors LLP: Connors LLP is a boutique litigation firm in Buffalo, known for its high-stakes trial work and strong appellate practice. The firm’s attorneys are regularly recognized for their legal acumen in complex civil and criminal cases. Connors LLP’s reputation is built on its ability to deliver successful outcomes in challenging cases, making it a go-to firm for clients seeking top-tier litigation services in Western New York.
- Damon Morey LLP: Damon Morey LLP, now part of Barclay Damon, was one of Buffalo’s prominent law firms with a long history of serving clients in areas such as business law, litigation, and real estate. The firm’s integration into Barclay Damon has expanded its reach and resources, allowing it to continue providing high-quality legal services under the larger firm’s banner. Damon Morey’s legacy of client service and legal expertise remains a significant part of Barclay Damon’s offerings in Buffalo.
- Goldberg Segalla LLP: Goldberg Segalla LLP, founded in 2001, is a fast-growing law firm with a strong presence in Buffalo and across the United States. The firm has over 400 attorneys and is particularly known for its work in insurance defense, toxic torts, and product liability. Goldberg Segalla’s innovative approach to legal practice and its commitment to client service have earned it national recognition, making it a major player in the Buffalo legal market and beyond. The firm’s emphasis on collaboration and client-focused solutions has been key to its success.
Biggest Companies Employing Lawyers
Securing a legal position with one of Buffalo’s largest employers often requires the expertise of a legal recruiter, as these roles are highly sought after and competitive. Buffalo is home to a range of major companies across various industries, each with significant legal needs. Here are some of the biggest companies in Buffalo that employ lawyers:
- M&T Bank: Founded in 1856, M&T Bank is one of the largest commercial banks in the United States, with headquarters in Buffalo. The bank employs over 17,000 people, with a substantial number of legal professionals managing its complex regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, and financial transactions. M&T Bank’s legal team plays a crucial role in ensuring that the bank operates within the bounds of state and federal law while supporting its extensive operations across multiple states.
- Kaleida Health: As the largest healthcare provider in Western New York, Kaleida Health employs a significant number of legal professionals to navigate the complex regulatory environment of the healthcare industry. Founded in 1998 through a merger of several local hospitals, Kaleida Health now operates five hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities. The legal team handles issues related to healthcare regulations, patient privacy, and corporate governance, making it a critical component of the organization’s operations.
- Delaware North: Delaware North, a global leader in hospitality and food services, was founded in 1915 and is headquartered in Buffalo. With over 55,000 employees worldwide, Delaware North’s legal department is tasked with managing the company’s diverse legal needs, including contract negotiations, intellectual property, and labor law. The company’s legal team is instrumental in supporting its expansive operations, which include managing concessions at major sports venues, national parks, and airports.
- Rich Products Corporation: Founded in 1945, Rich Products Corporation is a privately held, multinational food products company based in Buffalo. The company employs more than 11,000 people worldwide, including a dedicated legal team that handles matters related to food safety regulations, intellectual property, and international trade. Rich Products’ legal department is essential in navigating the complexities of global food production and distribution, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards in multiple countries.
- National Fuel Gas Company: National Fuel Gas Company, founded in 1902, is a diversified energy company headquartered in Buffalo. The company’s legal team is deeply involved in regulatory compliance, environmental law, and energy contracts, supporting its operations in natural gas production, transportation, and distribution. National Fuel’s legal professionals play a key role in managing the legal aspects of its extensive operations across the Northeast and Midwest.
- BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York: A leading health insurance provider, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York has been serving the Buffalo area since 1936. The company’s legal department is responsible for managing healthcare regulations, corporate compliance, and litigation related to insurance claims. With the ever-changing landscape of healthcare law, BlueCross BlueShield relies heavily on its legal team to navigate complex legal challenges and ensure that it remains compliant with state and federal regulations.
- Moog Inc.: Founded in 1951, Moog Inc. is a leading designer and manufacturer of precision control components and systems for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. Headquartered in East Aurora, just outside Buffalo, Moog employs a significant legal team to handle contracts, intellectual property, and government compliance. The company’s legal department is critical in managing the complexities of working with government contracts and protecting its innovations in highly competitive markets.
- HSBC Bank USA: While headquartered in New York City, HSBC Bank USA maintains a significant presence in Buffalo, where it was founded in 1850 as Marine Midland Bank. The bank employs a large number of legal professionals to manage its regulatory compliance, risk management, and financial services operations. HSBC’s legal team is vital in ensuring that the bank adheres to both U.S. and international banking regulations, supporting its global operations.
- New Era Cap Company: Founded in 1920 and headquartered in Buffalo, New Era Cap Company is a global leader in athletic headwear and apparel. The company’s legal team handles intellectual property, licensing agreements, and labor law, ensuring that New Era’s brand and products are protected worldwide. The legal department is essential in managing the company’s numerous licensing agreements with major sports leagues and teams.
