Richards Layton

Welcome to the introduction of Richards, Layton & Finger, Delaware’s largest and one of its oldest law firms, established in 1899. While the "Nearby Lawyers" platform may connect you with legal professionals in various locations, it's crucial to highlight the preeminence and comprehensive services offered by Richards Layton, particularly for those whose legal matters necessitate the expertise found in Delaware, a leading jurisdiction for corporate law and complex litigation.

Environment and Location:

Richards, Layton & Finger is strategically located in Wilmington, Delaware, at One Rodney Square, 920 North King Street, Wilmington, DE 19801. This single, prominent location underscores the firm's deep roots and central role within the Delaware legal and business landscape. While you might be searching for "nearby lawyers," for matters concerning corporate law, bankruptcy, intellectual property disputes, or other complex commercial litigation, Delaware is often the pivotal jurisdiction, and Richards Layton's location within the state's legal hub is a significant advantage. Their office in Rodney Square, a landmark in Wilmington, signifies their long-standing presence and influence in the Delaware legal community. Clients can expect a sophisticated and professional environment equipped to handle high-stakes legal proceedings and intricate transactions. The firm’s physical presence in Delaware ensures seamless navigation of the state’s unique legal system and direct access to its courts and regulatory bodies.

Services Offered:

Richards, Layton & Finger offers a comprehensive range of legal services, with particular renown in several key areas critical to businesses and complex legal matters, including:

• Corporate Law: As a cornerstone of their practice, Richards Layton has been instrumental in shaping Delaware corporate law. They provide counsel on general corporate matters, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and other complex transactions. Their attorneys have even helped draft and continue to develop Delaware’s General Corporation Law, widely recognized as a leading body of corporate law in the United States.
• Chancery/Corporate Litigation: The firm is highly regarded for its exceptional insight into the Delaware Court of Chancery, a preeminent forum for corporate disputes. Their litigators handle many of the most high-profile and high-value cases arising in Delaware, representing corporations, directors, and shareholders in complex fiduciary duty and corporate governance litigation.
• Bankruptcy & Corporate Restructuring: Richards Layton handles some of the nation's largest, most complex, and most sensitive bankruptcy matters filed in Delaware. They provide comprehensive counsel to various stakeholders across numerous business sectors, navigating intricate Chapter 11 cases and related litigation.
• Alternative Entities: Recognized as leaders in this field, Richards Layton boasts Delaware's largest and busiest alternative entities practice. They advise on the organization, structuring, and operation of limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships (LPs), general partnerships, and business trusts, and are considered pioneers in the development of Delaware statutory trusts.
• Intellectual Property: The firm is nationally recognized for tackling complex, large-scale IP matters in the Delaware District Court, a leading venue for patent litigation.
• Commercial Transactions: Richards Layton provides expert counsel on a wide array of commercial transactions, leveraging their deep understanding of Delaware law to facilitate successful deals.
• Real Estate: They offer comprehensive legal services for real estate purchase, sale, and development projects throughout Delaware and beyond, with extensive experience in sophisticated transactions and financing.
• Corporate Trust & Agency Services: The firm has built Delaware's largest and most successful corporate trust practice, representing major financial institutions and trust companies.
• Other Practice Areas: In addition to these core strengths, Richards Layton also offers expertise in areas such as administrative law, alternative dispute resolution, banking, energy, environmental law, fiduciary litigation, labor and employment, media & first amendment law, and more.

Features and Expertise:

Richards, Layton & Finger’s reputation is built on a foundation of exceptional legal talent and a deep understanding of Delaware law. Several key features distinguish the firm:

• Unparalleled Expertise in Delaware Law: Often cited as having the deepest bench of talented lawyers in Delaware, the firm’s attorneys are recognized authorities in interpreting and shaping the state’s influential business statutes.
• Long-Standing History and Influence: Since 1899, Richards Layton has played a pivotal role in defining Delaware law and remains at the forefront of its evolution.
• Recognition and Accolades: The firm and its attorneys consistently receive top rankings from prestigious legal directories such as Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and Best Lawyers, often having more attorneys listed and top-tier practices than any other Delaware firm.
• Involvement in Landmark Cases: Richards Layton’s lawyers have been involved in numerous groundbreaking cases that have defined key aspects of corporate law under Delaware statutes.
• Authorship of Leading Legal Treatises: Firm attorneys have authored and continue to update authoritative texts on Delaware law, such as "The Delaware Law of Corporations and Business Organizations" and "Lubaroff & Altman on Delaware Limited Partnerships."
• Leadership in the Legal Community: Richards Layton attorneys hold and have held significant positions in bar associations and rules committees of the Delaware Supreme Court and the Court of Chancery.
• Global Reach: As the exclusive Delaware member firm of Lex Mundi, the world's leading network of independent law firms, Richards Layton can assist clients with complex cross-border legal issues.
• Commitment to Pro Bono and Community Service: The firm has a deep-rooted commitment to the Delaware community, providing significant pro bono legal services to those in need.

Promotional Information:

While Richards, Layton & Finger operates primarily from Delaware, their national and international reputation, particularly in corporate law, litigation, and bankruptcy, makes them a crucial legal resource for clients whose matters are governed by or litigated in Delaware, regardless of their physical location. For local users in the broader New York metropolitan area or beyond who require legal expertise in these specialized areas, Richards Layton offers:

• Access to the Foremost Experts in Delaware Law: When your legal issues involve Delaware corporations, alternative entities, or require litigation in Delaware courts, Richards Layton provides access to the leading legal minds in these fields.
• Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Matters: Their consistent involvement in the largest and most complex cases speaks to their capability and successful outcomes.
• Comprehensive and Integrated Legal Solutions: With expertise across a wide range of interconnected practice areas, they can provide holistic legal strategies for multifaceted issues.
• A Legacy of Trust and Excellence: Their long history and consistent recognition underscore their commitment to providing top-tier legal services.

Although they are based in Delaware, for businesses incorporated in Delaware (a significant portion of major U.S. companies) or for litigation taking place in Delaware courts, Richards, Layton & Finger is not just a "nearby lawyer" but the leading firm in a critical legal jurisdiction. If your legal needs intersect with Delaware law, engaging with Richards Layton provides access to unparalleled expertise and a deep understanding of the state's legal landscape. Contacting their Wilmington office can be the essential first step in navigating complex corporate, commercial, or bankruptcy matters within this pivotal legal forum.