Morgan Lewis Adds Veteran Litigators to West Coast Team

Firm bolsters global litigation practice with new partners in Seattle and Los Angeles

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Morgan Lewis announced on Wednesday that it has added veteran litigators Brian Buckley and Melissa Lawton as partners in its global litigation practice. Buckley will be based in Seattle, while Lawton will work out of the firm's Los Angeles office.

Why it matters

The additions of Buckley and Lawton strengthen Morgan Lewis' litigation capabilities on the West Coast, particularly in areas like consumer class actions and mass arbitration. Their experience will be valuable as the firm seeks to expand its presence and service offerings in these key markets.

The details

Buckley is an experienced trial lawyer who has represented companies at all stages of litigation, advising on strategy, risk management, and dispute resolution. Lawton will work closely with Buckley and adds depth to the firm's growing consumer class action and mass arbitration practice, especially in California.

  • Morgan Lewis announced the new hires on Wednesday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Brian Buckley

A partner in Morgan Lewis' global litigation practice, based in Seattle. Buckley is an experienced trial lawyer who represents companies at all stages of litigation.

Melissa Lawton

A partner in Morgan Lewis' global litigation practice, based in Los Angeles. Lawton adds depth to the firm's growing consumer class action and mass arbitration practice, particularly in California.

Morgan Lewis

A global law firm that has added Buckley and Lawton as partners in its global litigation practice, strengthening the firm's capabilities on the West Coast.

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The takeaway

The additions of Buckley and Lawton underscore Morgan Lewis' commitment to expanding its litigation practice and service offerings on the West Coast, particularly in areas like consumer class actions and mass arbitration where their experience will be valuable.