John Quinn Steps Down as Quinn Emanuel Managing Partner After 40 Years
John Quinn has stepped down as managing partner of Quinn Emanuel after four decades.
Why it matters: The change marks the end of an era at one of the world's most profitable litigation firms. Legal professionals should monitor how new leadership may influence firm priorities, compensation, and ongoing client relationships.
- John Quinn will remain as partner and non-executive chair, retaining a strategic role.
- William Burck and Michael Carlinsky took over as co-managing partners in 2022.
- Firm expanded to 1,300 attorneys and 35 offices worldwide under Quinn's direction.
- Equity partners are projected to receive an average of $9 million in 2025.
John B. Quinn, co-founder of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, stepped down as managing partner after shaping the global litigation powerhouse over a 40-year tenure. He will continue as a partner and serve as non-executive chair, keeping an advisory role in the firm (Bloomberg Law).
- Quinn Emanuel, founded in 1986 by John Quinn and colleagues Eric Emanuel, David Quinto, and Phyllis Kupferstein, is renowned for high-stakes litigation involving prominent figures like Alec Baldwin and Elon Musk. Its unique "litigation only" approach has set it apart in BigLaw circles (The American Lawyer).
- The firm strategically expanded to 1,300 attorneys and 35 offices in 12 countries, including New York, London, Tokyo, and Dubai.
- John Quinn orchestrated the leadership transition beginning in 2022, when William Burck and Michael Carlinsky became co-managing partners. Both have deep litigation backgrounds and international experience.
- Firm performance remains robust—equity partners are expected to be paid an average of $9 million in 2025. In 2023, the firm reported record revenues, highlighting its profitable model.
- Quinn, who launched the podcast Law, disrupted and received an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree in 2024, is also active outside law as the owner of Michelin-starred Q Sushi in Los Angeles.
Looking ahead, Quinn Emanuel's next chapter will test its ability to preserve its edge and culture as it continues to grow worldwide.
By the numbers:
- 1,300 — Attorneys at Quinn Emanuel across 35 offices and 12 countries.
- $9 million — Expected average 2025 payout to firm equity partners.
- 40 — Years John Quinn served as managing partner.
What's next: Observers will watch how Burck and Carlinsky's leadership shapes Quinn Emanuel's global expansion and profitability.