Skadden Hired Four Partners in Chicago
The law firm added four new partners to its mass torts and product liability group based in Chicago.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People
Skadden has expanded its mass torts and product liability group by adding four new partners to its Chicago office. The firm announced the hiring of these attorneys on Tuesday.
Why it matters
Expanding the legal team in this practice area bolsters the firm's capacity to manage complex litigation involving pharmaceuticals and medical devices. These additions strengthen the firm's presence within the local legal market.
Skadden has officially added 4 new partners to its mass torts and product liability group. All four incoming partners are based out of the firm's Chicago office.
The players
Skadden
Skadden is a global law firm that provides legal services to corporations and financial institutions.
Lyn Pruitt
Lyn Pruitt is a newly joined partner at the firm specializing in pharmaceutical and medical device litigation.
Adria Conklin
Adria Conklin is a partner who recently joined the Chicago office of the firm.
Mary Catherine Way
Mary Catherine Way serves as a partner in the firm's mass torts and product liability group.
David Koehler
David Koehler is a newly appointed partner based in the Chicago location.
The details
The newly hired partners are Lyn Pruitt, Adria Conklin, Mary Catherine Way, and David Koehler. Lyn Pruitt brings specific experience in pharmaceutical and medical device litigation to the firm's mass torts and product liability team.
Timeline
The hiring was announced on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
Market Landscape
This move mirrors the ongoing trend of Am Law 100 firms expanding specialized litigation practice groups to maintain competitive advantages. It positions Skadden to capture a larger share of high-stakes liability work compared to its industry rivals.
Clients in the Chicago area requiring counsel for product liability or pharmaceutical litigation will now have expanded access to specialized expertise at the firm. This staffing update does not directly alter consumer pricing or service availability for individual legal clients.
The takeaway
Large law firms often bolster specific practice groups to align with current shifts in federal and state litigation dockets. Strategic hiring remains a primary vehicle for firms to adapt to complex changes in regulatory and liability environments.
Further reading
Find more updates on industry leadership and firm news in our People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bloomberglaw.
