Covington & Burling

Covington & Burling is a prominent international law firm with a storied history rooted in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1919, it has grown into a global legal powerhouse known for its deep expertise in regulatory matters, high-stakes litigation, and sophisticated corporate transactions. The firm is consistently ranked among the top legal practices in the world, representing a diverse roster of multinational corporations, financial institutions, and governmental entities. Its attorneys are frequently involved in landmark cases and policy debates that shape industries and international law.

History

The firm was established in 1919 by former federal judge J. Harry Covington and prominent attorney Edward B. Burling. Its early growth was closely tied to the expansion of the federal government during the New Deal era, advising agencies like the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Federal Communications Commission. A significant early client was the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company, a precursor to AT&T. The firm played a key role in the establishment of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in the 1940s. Major expansion began in the late 20th century, with offices opening in New York City, London, and Brussels, solidifying its presence in global financial and regulatory capitals. The 21st century has seen further strategic growth across the United States, Europe, and Asia, including offices in San Francisco, Shanghai, and Johannesburg.

Practice areas

The firm’s practice is broadly divided into corporate, litigation, and regulatory advisory services. Its corporate group handles complex transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, securities offerings, and private equity investments for clients like Pfizer and JPMorgan Chase. The litigation department is renowned for its work in Supreme Court appeals, white-collar crime defense, and complex civil disputes, often involving the Department of Justice. Its regulatory strength spans life sciences, representing entities such as the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, technology and privacy, financial services, and international trade, frequently engaging with bodies like the European Commission and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Other core areas include intellectual property law and international arbitration.

Notable cases and clients

The firm has been counsel in numerous precedent-setting matters. It successfully defended Microsoft in major antitrust litigation brought by the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Commission. It has represented BP in matters related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and advised Toyota during its acceleration recall crisis. The firm has a long-standing relationship with the Motion Picture Association of America, handling key copyright and policy issues. It has also represented sovereign nations, such as the Republic of Argentina in debt restructuring, and argued before the International Court of Justice. Other notable clients have included Goldman Sachs, The Coca-Cola Company, and the National Football League.

Leadership and organization

The firm is structured as a limited liability partnership and is managed by a Chair and a Management Committee. Leadership has historically included figures like former U.S. Senator Howard Baker, who chaired the firm’s policy group. It operates on a single-profit-center model, fostering collaboration across its international network of offices. The firm maintains a strong commitment to pro bono legal work, with a dedicated practice that has taken on cases for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the American Civil Liberties Union, and individuals seeking asylum. Its attorney development programs are highly regarded, with many alumni moving into senior roles in government, including at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the U.S. Department of State.

Recognition and rankings

The firm is perennially ranked in the top tiers of major legal directories. It holds Band 1 rankings in practices such as Food and Drugs Law, International Trade, and Privacy & Data Security in Chambers and Partners. It is consistently placed in the top echelons of the Am Law 100 and the Global 100 surveys. Individual attorneys are frequently recognized by publications like The American Lawyer and Legal 500, and many are members of the American College of Trial Lawyers. The firm’s pro bono program has received the Pro Bono Institute’s Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge award repeatedly.

Category:Law firms of the United States Category:Companies based in Washington, D.C. Category:1919 establishments in Washington, D.C.