NEW YORK – September 24, 2026 – Ogletree Deakins, one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management, is pleased to announce that Will Lopez has joined the firm as its General Counsel, based in the firm’s New York office. He joins Ogletree Deakins from Cooley LLP, where he was Deputy General Counsel for nearly six years.
Lopez brings more than 15 years of experience advising firm leadership, lawyers, and business professionals on risk management, legal ethics, and regulatory compliance, while managing these programs and improving overall process efficiency. In his role as General Counsel for Ogletree Deakins, he serves as the chief in-house legal and ethics officer, advising firm leadership on a variety of legal matters and assisting the firm with a wide range of legal needs related to the firm’s business ventures. Lopez leads a cross-functional team responsible for new business intake, records, docketing, conflicts, engagement letters, claims management, discovery, subpoenas, and privacy matters. Lopez also provides strategic counsel on large-contract procurement strategies, including AI-related agreements.
“Will’s combination of risk management, ethics, and regulatory experience, along with his strategic business judgment and innovative thinking, makes him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said Liz Washko, managing shareholder of Ogletree Deakins. “He has built a distinguished career advising on some of the most critical issues facing law firms today, including complex business relationships and emerging AI-related matters. His experience and vision will strengthen our ability to serve the firm as we continue our international growth.”
“Ogletree Deakins has earned a reputation for excellence, innovation, and client service, and I am honored to join the firm at such an exciting time in its growth,” said Lopez. “I look forward to partnering with colleagues across the firm to further strengthen our ethics, compliance, and risk management functions while supporting the strategic initiatives that will drive the firm’s continued success.”
Lopez earned his J.D., magna cum laude, with a Labor & Employment Certificate from Chicago-Kent College of Law, and earned his B.A., cum laude, from the University of Miami.
Ogletree Deakins continues to grow strategically across its international footprint. The firm has added more than 25 shareholders this year alone and opened a new office in Monterrey, Mexico, earlier this month.
About Ogletree Deakins
With more than 1,100 attorneys in 61 offices worldwide, Ogletree Deakins is one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management. We handle all types of employment-related legal matters, including traditional labor and employment, workplace safety, employee benefits, and business immigration matters. Guided by our Client Pledge, we focus on understanding clients’ business and objectives, collaborating and anticipating needs, harnessing technology and innovation, communicating effectively, and providing quality representation with exceptional value. www.ogletree.com