McLaughlin & Stern Expands to San Francisco with Addition of Dillingham & Murphy Team

The new San Francisco office will be led by veteran litigator Bill Murphy and other partners.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The law firm McLaughlin & Stern announced that the lawyers and staff of Dillingham & Murphy, LLP will join the firm, marking McLaughlin & Stern's expansion into San Francisco. The new office, McLaughlin & Stern – San Francisco, will be located at the current offices of Dillingham & Murphy and will retain the firm's existing telephone number.

Why it matters

This move allows McLaughlin & Stern to expand its presence on the West Coast and leverage the expertise and reputation of the Dillingham & Murphy team, particularly in litigation and employment matters. It also signals the firm's commitment to growth and serving clients at the highest level across the country.

The details

The Dillingham & Murphy team joining McLaughlin & Stern includes partner Bill Murphy, a highly respected figure in the San Francisco legal community, as well as partners Carla Hartley and Dennis Kelly, and associate attorneys William P. Fuller, Adrienne Ou, and Matt Wu. The group is widely recognized for its strength in litigation and employment matters, which will remain the core focus of the San Francisco practice.

  • McLaughlin & Stern announced the expansion on February 9, 2026.
  • The Dillingham & Murphy team will join McLaughlin & Stern effective February 2, 2026.

The players

McLaughlin & Stern, LLP

One of New York's most distinguished law firms, providing a diverse range of sophisticated legal services to businesses and individuals.

Dillingham & Murphy, LLP

A San Francisco-based law firm that is known for its strength in litigation and employment matters.

Bill Murphy

A highly respected figure in the San Francisco legal community, known for decades of leadership, courtroom experience, and trusted counsel to clients across complex matters.

Carla Hartley

A partner at Dillingham & Murphy who will be joining McLaughlin & Stern.

Dennis Kelly

A partner at Dillingham & Murphy who will be joining McLaughlin & Stern.

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What they’re saying

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Bill Murphy and his colleagues to McLaughlin & Stern. Their reputation for excellence, particularly in litigation, and their deep roots in the San Francisco legal community make them a natural fit for our firm. We look forward to building on their legacy and continuing to serve clients at the highest level.”

— Geoffrey Handler, Managing Partner of McLaughlin & Stern (PRNewswire)

The takeaway

This expansion allows McLaughlin & Stern to strengthen its presence on the West Coast and leverage the expertise of the Dillingham & Murphy team, particularly in litigation and employment matters, to better serve clients across the country.