Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, announces today that Richard Shearer has joined the Firm’s Commercial Litigation practice as partner residing in the Kansas City office. Shearer’s addition meets the growing demand from local and nationwide clients for high profile litigators who help them navigate their most challenging legal issues.

Shearer’s complex commercial litigation practice focuses on representing clients in state and federal courts throughout the country as well as in arbitrations. A trial lawyer, Shearer has taken numerous cases to hearing over the past two years, and has substantial experience litigating breach of contract claims, fraud litigation, joint venture and partnership disputes, professional negligence claims and insurance coverage disputes.

“Rick is a powerful addition to our team of litigators in the United States,” said Sandra Hauser, head of the Dentons US Commercial Litigation practice. “Not only does he offer a wealth of local insight to our Kansas City clients, but he also strengthens our general litigation and arbitration offerings across the country, positioning him as a ‘go-to’ for many client relationships.”

Shearer’s clients span a broad range of industries including technology, media, design and construction, finance, insurance, manufacturing and professional services. Previously, Shearer was in private practice where he handled all aspects of litigation, including developing and establishing pre-trial and trial strategy, engaging in dispositive motion practice, taking and defending critical depositions, coordinating responses to subpoenas, preparing and executing discovery, and engaging in discovery motion practice.