Former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff transitions from his White House duties into a new professional chapter in the private sector.
According to Fox News, Emhoff has secured a partnership position at the prestigious law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, marking his return to legal practice merely a week after Donald Trump's presidential inauguration.
The New York-based international law firm, which boasts a workforce of approximately 1,200 lawyers worldwide, announced Emhoff's appointment on Monday. His extensive background spans more than three decades of legal experience, primarily focused on litigation and trial law. The appointment highlights his significant expertise in representing major corporations and his recent experience representing the United States on the global stage.
Emhoff's responsibilities at Willkie Farr & Gallagher will encompass advising corporations, boards of directors, and individuals on complex business challenges. His practice will specifically focus on sensitive investigations and litigation matters with international scope.
The role will leverage his experience handling cases with significant reputational implications across various industries and sectors.
Willkie Farr & Gallagher Chairman Thomas Cerabino expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment, stating:
Doug's leadership and his service as a trusted counselor to many global business leaders across a broad range of industries, as well as his extensive legal expertise and business acumen, make him a tremendous asset. We're thrilled to be adding Doug to the Willkie partnership during this period of transformational firm growth.
The former second gentleman will divide his time between Los Angeles and New York while maintaining his position as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University Law Center. His academic role involves teaching entertainment law, demonstrating his continued commitment to legal education alongside his private sector responsibilities.
Prior to his role as second gentleman, Emhoff demonstrated considerable professional adaptability. He took a leave of absence from DLA Piper, another prominent law firm, when his wife Kamala Harris was selected as Biden's running mate in August 2020. He subsequently resigned from that position before Harris assumed office as vice president.
During his wife's presidential campaign against Donald Trump, Emhoff played a crucial role in fundraising efforts. He utilized his extensive connections in both the legal community and the entertainment industry in California to host successful fundraising events. His ability to leverage professional relationships proved valuable for the campaign's financial strategy.
The transition comes with additional responsibilities beyond his law firm duties. Former President Joe Biden appointed Emhoff to serve on the board of trustees of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum before leaving office, ensuring his continued involvement in public service.
Throughout his legal career, Emhoff has represented numerous high-profile clients across various sectors. His client portfolio includes the creators of "American Made," NFL wide receiver Willie Gault, and major corporations such as Merck and Walmart. These experiences have equipped him with diverse expertise in handling complex legal matters.
During his tenure as second gentleman, Emhoff expanded his professional scope beyond legal practice. He represented the United States at significant international events, including the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and the Women's World Cup in New Zealand. His role also involved leading administration initiatives against antisemitism, demonstrating his capability to handle both diplomatic and social justice responsibilities.
Doug Emhoff's appointment at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP represents a significant career transition following his role as the nation's first-second gentleman. The move combines his extensive legal expertise with the unique perspective gained from his White House experience. As he establishes himself in this new position, Emhoff will continue balancing his private sector responsibilities with his ongoing commitments to legal education and public service while splitting his time between major coastal cities.
