Brad Karp
Leadership, Legacy, and a Transition in a Storied Law Firm
Brad S. Karp is a name that resonates deeply within the world of high‑stakes litigation and corporate law. For decades, Karp has been one of the most influential lawyers in the United States, shaping major legal battles, advising Fortune 100 companies, and leading one of America’s premier law firms — Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, commonly known as Paul Weiss.
A Storied Legal Career
Brad Karp’s legal journey is rooted in excellence and long‑term dedication. Born in 1959 in Merrick, New York, he pursued his undergraduate studies at Union College and then earned his law degree from Harvard Law School. After graduating cum laude in 1984, Karp joined Paul Weiss as a summer associate and spent his entire professional career at the firm, rising through the ranks to become its chairman in 2008.
What set Karp apart early in his career was not just his academic prowess but his strategic understanding of complex litigation and corporate disputes. Under his leadership, Paul Weiss built an enviable reputation for guiding clients through “bet‑the‑company” litigation — cases where outcomes could determine a corporation’s future — as well as high‑profile regulatory investigations and internal probes. Chambers and industry publications have described him as one of the most connected and effective litigators in America, a lawyer who corporate leaders often seek out when stakes are high.
Paul Weiss Under Karp’s Leadership
Paul Weiss itself is one of the most respected law firms in the United States, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. The firm is known for its litigation prowess, corporate advisory work, and commitment to pro bono service. With more than 1,000 attorneys across multiple offices worldwide, Paul Weiss has become a powerhouse in both legal and corporate circles.
Under Karp’s leadership, Paul Weiss grew significantly. The firm expanded its offerings beyond traditional litigation into broader areas of corporate law while maintaining a commitment to defending clients in complex legal challenges. Karp’s tenure also cemented the firm’s role in handling sensitive and consequential matters for some of the world’s largest financial institutions and corporations.
Karp was also a prominent voice on issues beyond clients’ interests. He frequently spoke and wrote about corporate governance, litigation trends, and public policy issues. His involvement in public discourse included advocacy on social justice matters, diversity in the legal profession, and the rule of law.
A Challenging Chapter: Controversy and Transition
Despite Karp’s many accomplishments, recent events have brought significant changes to his role at Paul Weiss. In early 2026, Karp stepped down as chairman of the firm following media scrutiny related to newly released documents that drew attention to his personal and professional interactions with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. These revelations prompted concern among some partners and observers about the potential reputational impact on the firm.
The firm’s statement emphasized that Karp’s decision to step down was made in light of the distraction the coverage had created — a distraction, he said, that was not in the best interests of Paul Weiss. Karp will continue to serve the firm in a client‑focused capacity rather than in its top leadership role.
Stepping into the chairman role is Scott Barshay, a respected partner who previously led the firm’s corporate department. Barshay brings decades of experience in mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and high‑value transactions. His appointment reflects a continuity of leadership and a renewed focus on the firm’s core strengths in corporate legal work.
The Rise of Scott Barshay
Scott A. Barshay is a well‑regarded figure in corporate law, known for advising boards and management teams on some of the most complex mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and governance questions facing global companies. Before assuming the chairmanship, Barshay served as Chair of the Corporate Department at Paul Weiss, where his work helped shape strategic directions for major deals and corporate decisions.
His recognition by industry publications underscores his reputation as a dealmaker and someone who can steer a major law firm through changing market dynamics. As Karp transitions out of the leadership role, Barshay’s appointment signals the firm’s commitment to maintaining excellence and adapting to evolving legal challenges.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Brad Karp’s legacy at Paul Weiss is multifaceted. He is widely recognized for transforming the firm into a litigation and corporate powerhouse with global influence. He mentored generations of lawyers, expanded the firm’s reach, and maintained strong relationships with clients and institutions around the world. His contributions to legal thought and practice — through litigation, advocacy, and public commentary — have been significant.
At the same time, the recent leadership change highlights the complexities of leading a major global institution in a world where public scrutiny and ethical questions can reshape even the most storied careers. As Scott Barshay assumes the chairmanship, Paul Weiss faces a new chapter — one that balances tradition with innovation and attention to both client needs and broader expectations of transparency and integrity.
In legal circles and beyond, Brad Karp’s career remains a powerful example of how one lawyer can influence not just a firm, but the broader contours of corporate law and public discourse. The story of Paul Weiss and its leadership shift underlines the ongoing evolution of law firms as they navigate both opportunity and accountability in the 21st century.
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Saboor Brohi
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