ArentFox Schiff LLP

ArentFox Schiff is a Washington, D.C.-headquartered law firm with approximately 580 attorneys and offices in New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and other markets. The firm was formed in 2022 through the merger of Arent Fox (founded in 1942) and Schiff Hardin (founded in 1864), combining two historic practices into a platform with strengthened capabilities in intellectual property, food and beverage regulatory law, and government contracts. The firm generates profits per partner of approximately $1.7 million and has built distinctive niche practices that set it apart from similarly sized competitors.

ArentFox Schiff holds top-tier rankings in Chambers USA for Intellectual Property, Food & Beverage Regulatory, Real Estate, and Government Contracts. The firm's IP practice spans patent prosecution, trademark litigation, and trade secret disputes, with particular depth in the technology and consumer products sectors. Its food and beverage practice is one of the most recognized in the country, advising manufacturers, retailers, and restaurant chains on FDA compliance, labeling regulations, and product liability. The legacy Schiff Hardin platform contributes strong capabilities in energy, environmental law, and complex commercial litigation, while the legacy Arent Fox practice brings depth in real estate, sports law, and government contracts.

ArentFox Schiff uses a free-market assignment system. The interview process typically begins with a short screener of approximately 30 minutes, and candidates are encouraged to plan carefully how they present themselves and what questions they ask. The 2022 merger has created new opportunities for associates to access a broader range of practice areas and offices, and the firm is actively building its combined culture. Associates describe the environment as collegial and supportive, with a genuine commitment to mentorship and professional development.

The ArentFox Schiff merger brought together two firms with complementary strengths. Arent Fox's D.C. regulatory depth and IP practice with Schiff Hardin's Chicago litigation and energy capabilities. The resulting platform offers associates a combination of niche-leading practices and full-service breadth that neither legacy firm could provide independently. For students interested in IP, food and beverage regulation, or government-facing work in a firm that is still actively shaping its post-merger identity, ArentFox Schiff offers the opportunity to join a firm during a defining period of growth and cultural development.