Hughes Hubbard Acquires Schulman Bhattacharya to Strengthen Litigation Practice and Expertise

Strategic Acquisition to Bolster Litigation Excellence at Hughes Hubbard

Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP strengthens its position in the competitive landscape of commercial litigation and arbitration through its recent acquisition of Schulman Bhattacharya LLC, a distinguished firm based in Washington, D.C. Officially announced on January 12, 2026, this strategic move enhances Hughes Hubbard's capabilities in managing high-stakes disputes, particularly in the U.S. capital region. Neil J. Oxford, the firm’s chair, highlights the excitement surrounding the integration of Schulman Bhattacharya's experienced team, which includes notable partners Jeremy W. Schulman, Koushik Bhattacharya, and Jeffrey S. Gavenman, alongside additional counsel and associates.

The addition of the Schulman Bhattacharya team significantly bolsters Hughes Hubbard’s litigation practice, especially in a jurisdiction where complex commercial disputes are prevalent. The firm has a strong reputation for representing Fortune 100 companies, financial institutions, and foreign governments across various sectors, including real estate, finance, and pharmaceuticals. Their impressive track record includes successfully serving as national litigation counsel for a leading pharmaceutical company, where they achieved an $18 million jury verdict upheld by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, as well as representing a private equity firm in a substantial $480 million litigation related to the sale of a petroleum company. These accomplishments exemplify the expertise that the Schulman Bhattacharya team brings to Hughes Hubbard.

As the firms merge, the commitment to fostering a culture of independence and excellence remains a priority. This acquisition not only reflects Hughes Hubbard's dedication to growth but also underscores its focus on enhancing litigation, arbitration, and investigations practices. By leveraging the combined expertise of both firms, they aim to continue delivering exceptional results for clients, thereby reinforcing their standing as a leading player in the legal industry. The integration process is expected to unfold smoothly, with Schulman taking the helm of the litigation practice in D.C., allowing the firm to maintain its momentum in providing high-quality legal services.

In addition to the acquisition news, Hughes Hubbard emphasizes its commitment to client service excellence. The firm’s strategy includes investing in top-tier talent and resources to handle increasingly complex legal challenges. By incorporating Schulman Bhattacharya's skilled attorneys, Hughes Hubbard is poised to expand its influence and capabilities in the litigation sector further.

Overall, this acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP, as it positions the firm to not only tackle existing client needs but also to attract new business opportunities in a dynamic legal landscape. The partnership promises to enhance the breadth and depth of services offered, ensuring that clients receive unparalleled legal support in navigating high-stakes disputes.