Kirkland & Ellis announced today it will open an office in Miami as part of its continued strategy to attract leading legal talent.

“We are excited about the opportunity that Miami offers: a vibrant and growing business community where talent and capital are moving at a rapid pace,” said Jon A. Ballis, Chairman of Kirkland’s Executive Committee. “Kirkland’s ability to attract, train and retain the best legal talent is key to our continued success, and being present where that talent wants to be is critical.”

Corporate partners Jeremy Liss, Matthew Arenson, Jeffrey Swatzell and Eduardo Leal will launch the new office. Mr. Leal is from Kirkland’s New York office and the other partners are from Chicago.

“The Miami office will help us get closer to existing clients in Florida and attract top lawyers who are excited about the career opportunity that Kirkland’s global platform offers,” said Mr. Liss. “The feedback so far has been very positive and we are eager to start putting the pieces in place.”

The Firm expects to officially open this summer, and Kirkland is currently recruiting lawyers for the new location.