Mimi Lamarre

Kirkland and A&O Shearman say their alumni programs have become more structured, robust and also ingrained into their firm's DNA.

Gibson Dunn, Baker McKenzie; ArentFox and Dorsey & Whitney are among those who have filed claims in New York lately, whether in court or arbitration.

In her new leadership role, Claire James said she wants to continue to "build out, train and retain a team" in the firm's New York office.

In her new leadership role, Claire James said she wants to continue to "build out, train and retain a team" in the firm's New York office.

Several firms are working to beef up their intellectual property offering.

As big leases come up for renewal, firms with New York offices now have competitive offers from current and potential landlords. Some are staying put.

Stephen Mohr, who just left the FTC, said he "anticipates agencies will continue to be aggressive in bringing merger enforcement challenges."

Mansfield leaders said that many firms have "blocked out the noise" and "remained quietly committed" to increasing diversity leadership.

Latham & Watkins, Sullivan & Cromwell, Paul Weiss and Simpson were also in the top of the rankings, as deal activity continues to rebound from last year.

Some firm leaders say nonequity tiers can offer women and diverse lawyers earlier opportunities, while others say they've seen a lack of transparency and "moving goalposts."