(Memphis, TN/November 17, 2009) Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC is ranked 73rd on The National Law Journal's 2009 NLJ 250, its annual ranking of the 250 largest law firms in the country based on total number of attorneys. Baker Donelson is once again the highest-ranked Tennessee-based firm on the list and among the 10 largest firms based in the South.
The ranking is an increase from the Firm's position on the 2008 list as the country's 79th largest law firm. During the time period covered by the ranking (October 1, 2008, to September 30, 2009), Baker Donelson grew from 549 attorneys to 562. The Firm's attorney count has grown further since the end of the survey period, with a current total of 572 attorneys.
Baker Donelson achieved growth in a year when many law firms across the country were making significant reductions in attorney headcount. The total number of attorneys at law firms included in the NLJ 250 dropped by 5,259, a 4% decrease in attorney headcount and the sharpest decline since The National Law Journal began tracking these figures more than 30 years ago.
"Given the difficulties presented by the economic downturn, our continued improvement in this ranking is a testament to the strength of our firm," says Ben Adams, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Baker Donelson. "While we certainly have not been immune to the challenges of the current business climate, our diverse range of practice areas and broad geographic focus have enabled us to continue making strategic additions that further ensure we are providing our clients with comprehensive, experienced counsel for all their legal needs."
In compiling its 32nd annual list, The National Law Journal sent surveys to approximately 300 law firms to determine the 250 largest. Eligibility is based on a firm's total number of attorneys, not including contract or temporary attorneys. A firm must have more lawyers based in the United States than in any other single country.