Kirkland & Ellis announced today that leading trial lawyers Meghan Kelly and Bill Oxley will join the Firm as partners in the Litigation Practice Group. They bring significant experience leading complex product liability, mass tort and commercial litigation matters. “Meghan and Bill are exceptional trial lawyers with a track record of successfully representing clients in their most high-profile litigation matters,” said Jon A. Ballis, Chairman of Kirkland’s Executive Committee. “They’re joining in a period of significant growth for our litigation practice, and we’re thrilled to have them on board.”

A fellow of the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers, Mr. Oxley has a tremendous record trying cases to verdict in jurisdictions across the U.S. He has represented brand-name clients in matters across products liability, breach of contract, trademark, intellectual property and business tort cases. Mr. Oxley has been recognized as a leading trial lawyer and litigator across publications such as Chambers USA, The Legal 500 U.S., Benchmark Litigation and Lawdragon. “Kirkland is home to many outstanding trial lawyers and an incredibly deep bench of litigation talent, many of whom I know well,” said Mr. Oxley. “I’m excited to join the team and contribute to its ongoing success.”

Ms. Kelly has notched first-chair trial wins in courtrooms across the country for companies across a range of industries including chemical, pharmaceutical, automotive, biotechnology, manufacturing and food. She is known in the marketplace for her results-focused trial skills, tireless advocacy and commitment to mentorship.

“Kirkland is a perennial top brand for complex litigation, but I was most impressed with the Firm’s clear commitment to continued growth in this area,” said Ms. Kelly. “It’s really exciting to join this world-class team, which includes many of the top women trial lawyers in the country, as we work together to serve our shared client base.”

Prior to joining Kirkland, Mr. Oxley and Ms. Kelly co-led Orrick’s complex litigation and dispute resolution practice. They are the latest in a series of prominent litigation hires for Kirkland, building on the more than 150 lateral attorneys and 100 new associates who have joined the Firm in litigation this year.

“Meghan and Bill are incredibly impressive and successful trial lawyers,” said Andrew Kassof, a member of Kirkland’s Executive Committee. “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome them to our team as we continue to scale the litigation group with the very best talent in the country.”