Dechert Bolsters IP Litigation Bench with Life Sciences and Tech Hires
Event summary
- Dechert added Anish Desai (NY) and Priyata Patel (DC) as IP litigation partners, focusing on life sciences and technology disputes.
- Desai is a Chambers-ranked trial lawyer with expertise in high-stakes patent cases, including nine-figure jury verdicts.
- Patel specializes in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device litigation, with a focus on biologics.
- The hires are part of Dechert's 2026 lateral partner expansion, totaling over 30 new partners across multiple practice areas.
- Dechert also opened offices in Chicago, Dallas, and Houston this year.
The big picture
Dechert's strategic hires in IP litigation reflect the growing demand for specialized legal expertise in life sciences and technology sectors. The firm's expansion aligns with broader industry trends where high-stakes patent disputes and regulatory complexities are driving demand for top-tier litigation services. With over 30 lateral partners added this year, Dechert is positioning itself as a formidable player in complex commercial litigation, particularly in sectors with high innovation and regulatory scrutiny.
What we're watching
- Litigation Market Share
- How Dechert's expanded IP litigation bench will impact its competitive positioning against other top-tier law firms.
- Life Sciences Focus
- Whether the firm can sustain momentum in attracting high-profile life sciences clients with these specialized hires.
- Geographic Expansion
- The pace at which Dechert's new office openings will translate into tangible business growth in the Midwest and South.
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