Southeastern Firms Expand Business Litigation Teams

September 21, 2026 - 17:45

Baker Donelson has added a two-attorney equipment finance team to its Birmingham office, continuing a recent wave of lateral hiring among Southeastern law firms focused on business litigation and commercial practice growth.

The move follows similar expansion by other regional firms seeking to deepen their bench in high-demand practice areas. Equipment finance and commercial litigation have become priorities as businesses navigate complex financing arrangements and contract disputes across the region.

Firms across the Southeast have been competing for experienced attorneys who can handle sophisticated commercial matters. The Birmingham market in particular has seen increased activity as companies in manufacturing, transportation, and financial services require legal support for equipment leasing, secured transactions, and related disputes.

The additions reflect a broader trend of regional firms investing in specialized teams rather than generalist hiring. Clients increasingly expect their counsel to understand the technical details of financing structures and the litigation risks that can arise when those arrangements break down.

For Baker Donelson, the expansion strengthens its presence in Alabama and adds capacity to serve clients throughout the Southeast. The firm has not disclosed additional details about the attorneys joining the team or their specific practice backgrounds.

Other firms have made comparable moves in recent months, signaling that demand for business litigation and finance expertise remains strong despite broader economic uncertainty. Legal industry observers expect continued lateral activity in these areas as firms position themselves for sustained client needs.