(October 8 2014, Washington, D.C.) – Reed Smith LLP today announced the appointment of Gary Thompson as Managing Partner of the firm’s 94-lawyer Washington, D.C. office. Mr. Thompson succeeds A. Scott Bolden, who after six years leading the office will join Reed Smith’s 26-member Executive Committee. In his role as Office Managing Partner, Mr. Thompson will manage and oversee strategic growth; as a member of the Executive Committee, Mr. Bolden is one of the partners responsible for firm management and governance.
“In stepping into the role of Washington’s Office Managing Partner, Gary Thompson enters the position well-versed in the operations of the Washington, D.C. office and well-prepared for the demands of directing the office’s growth in the coming years,” said Sandy Thomas, Reed Smith’s Global Managing Partner. “We’re grateful for Scott’s leadership and look forward to his contributions as a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. He brings a welcome perspective combining 23 years at the firm, an active and multifaceted litigation and regulatory practice, and robust ties to Washington’s legal, political, and business communities. Through the seamless transition between these highly capable individuals, both the office and the firm will continue their trajectories of growth and success.”
Mr. Thompson joined Reed Smith in 2001. An accomplished trial attorney with over $100 million in verdicts during 25 years practicing law, he represents policyholders in all aspects of insurance coverage disputes, including in litigation, arbitration, mediation, claim negotiations, and claim advice and preparation. He is also dedicated to pro bono activity, having recently served as the Washington office’s pro bono committee member; earlier this year, he won the landmark lawsuit directing the District of Columbia to hold elections for the position of attorney general for the first time in its history.
“I enter this role focused on continuing the office’s growth in 2015 and beyond, beginning with our transition into newly renovated space early next year,” said Thompson. “As we continue to expand, particularly in the life sciences, energy, financial services and media industry practices, I am energized at the prospect of leading the office during what will be exciting times.”
Mr. Bolden joined Reed Smith in 1991. His practice focuses on complex criminal and civil/regulatory defense litigation, representing individuals and entities in a wide range of matters including Congressional, federal and state investigations, state and federal trials and grand jury proceedings, regulatory matters, and internal investigations. He is a former Chair of the DC Chamber of Commerce and D.C. Democratic Party and was recently recognized by his alma mater, Howard University, with the 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award in the Field of Law for his work defending clients.
“Through my time managing the Washington office, I have seen firsthand how our global strategy is of tremendous benefit to our clients for whom we are able to provide seamless service anywhere in the world,” said Scott Bolden. “I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues on the Executive Committee to further develop and direct our strategy to provide quality and value to our clients while keeping our own business vibrant and strong.”
About Reed Smith
Reed Smith is a global relationship law firm with more than 1,800 lawyers in 25 offices throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Founded in 1877, the firm represents leading international businesses, from Fortune 100 corporations to mid-market and emerging enterprises. Its lawyers provide litigation and other dispute resolution services in multi-jurisdictional and other high-stakes matters; deliver regulatory counsel; and execute the full range of strategic domestic and cross-border transactions. Reed Smith is a preeminent advisor to industries including financial services, life sciences, health care, advertising, technology and media, shipping, energy and natural resources, real estate, manufacturing, and education. For more information, visit reedsmith.com.
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