Introduction to Jenner & Block
Founded in 1914, Jenner & Block has established itself as one of America’s most prestigious law firms, commanding respect across the legal landscape for over a century. This premier legal institution began its journey in Chicago and has since expanded into an internationally recognized powerhouse that shapes law, business, and policy on a global scale.
Today, Jenner & Block LLP employs more than 500 lawyers globally, making it a formidable presence in the legal industry. The firm’s reputation extends far beyond its impressive size, as it has become synonymous with excellence in litigation, unwavering commitment to justice, and a pioneering approach to pro bono work that sets the standard for the entire profession.
Geographic Footprint and Office Locations
The firm maintains a strategic presence across major legal and business hubs in the United States. Jenner and Block operates offices in Chicago, New York City, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Century City, and San Francisco, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the nation’s most important legal markets. The firm has also expanded internationally with an office in London, solidifying its position as a truly global legal force.
This geographic diversity allows the firm to serve clients effectively across multiple jurisdictions while maintaining deep local expertise in each market it serves.
A Rich Historical Legacy
The Founding Years
The story of Jenner and Block LLP begins in 1914 when it was originally established as Newman, Poppenhusen & Stern. Over the decades, the firm evolved and expanded its capabilities, eventually undergoing a significant transformation in the 1960s. In 1964, the firm adopted the name Raymond Mayer Jenner & Block, and just five years later, in 1969, it was shortened to its current name.
Influential Figures in Firm History
Throughout its history, the firm has attracted some of the legal profession’s most distinguished minds. Floyd Thompson, a former Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, joined the firm in 1928, bringing judicial wisdom and prestige to the growing practice. Another notable figure, Albert E. Jenner, Jr., who served as assistant counsel to the Warren Commission, helped establish the firm’s reputation for handling matters of national importance.
Comprehensive Practice Areas and Legal Expertise
Litigation Excellence
Jenner Block has built an exceptional litigation practice that stands among the best in the nation. The firm employs nearly 400 skilled litigators, including nine Fellows of the American College of Trial Lawyers, representing the pinnacle of courtroom advocacy. This litigation powerhouse handles complex commercial disputes, crisis management situations, and high-stakes legal battles across various industries.
The firm established its Washington practice early on, with a strategic focus on U.S. Supreme Court appeals, positioning itself at the forefront of constitutional and appellate advocacy.
Corporate and Transactional Work
Beyond litigation, the firm maintains robust corporate practice groups that handle sophisticated transactions and dealmaking for major corporations and emerging businesses alike. Their attorneys guide clients through mergers, acquisitions, securities offerings, and other critical business transactions.
Supreme Court and Appellate Practice
With more than 100 arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court, Jenner & Block has established itself as one of the nation’s leading appellate practices. The firm’s attorneys have shaped constitutional law and influenced legal doctrine across numerous areas of practice.
Specialized Practice Groups
The firm has developed unique expertise in several specialized areas:
- Native American Law Practice: Led by enrolled tribal members, this practice represents tribal governments and indigenous peoples in matters ranging from sovereignty disputes to economic development
- Media and Entertainment: Serving clients in television, film, music, and digital media
- Technology and Finance: Advising tech companies and financial institutions on regulatory matters, transactions, and litigation
- Real Estate and Hospitality: Handling complex real estate transactions and hospitality industry matters
- Government Strategy and Public Policy: Helping clients navigate regulatory challenges and policy issues
- Regulatory Compliance and Investigations: Defending clients in government investigations and ensuring regulatory compliance
Landmark Cases and Major Achievements
Supreme Court Victories
The firm has secured several landmark Supreme Court victories that have shaped American jurisprudence. Notable among these is Lawrence v. Texas, a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ rights case that struck down sodomy laws nationwide. The firm also prevailed in Maple Flooring Manufacturers’ Association v. US, an important antitrust case that clarified competition law principles.
Major Litigation Wins
Jenner Block LLP has achieved remarkable victories in complex commercial litigation. In Epic Systems Corp. v. Tata Consultancy Services, the firm secured the largest verdict in Wisconsin history at $940 million. In ABC v. Aereo, they obtained a Supreme Court victory for broadcasters in a critical copyright case. The firm also played a pivotal role in the 1985 AT&T antitrust lawsuit for MCI, which contributed to the historic telecommunications breakup.
Unparalleled Pro Bono Commitment
What truly distinguishes the firm is its extraordinary dedication to pro bono work, which isn’t merely encouraged but is integrated into the firm’s DNA. Remarkably, 100% of the firm’s lawyers performed 20 or more hours of pro bono work last year, demonstrating a universal commitment to public service. The firm has been recognized as the leading law firm for per-attorney pro bono hours in 2014, 2015, and five of seven years from 2008 to 2015.
The firm’s pro bono practice encompasses criminal defense, death penalty cases, civil rights matters, LGBTQ+ equality advocacy, and veterans’ rights. This commitment earned the firm the 2005 National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty Legal Service Award.
Industry Recognition and Rankings
Jenner and Block consistently receives top rankings from legal rating organizations. Chambers USA 2025 recognized the firm as a leading practice in 38 different areas, demonstrating breadth and depth of expertise. As of 2014, the firm ranked as the 103rd-largest law firm in the United States. The firm has received multiple “Most Admired Law Firms to Work For” awards and was named Law Firm of the Year by The American Lawyer 2025 Industry Awards.
Firm Culture and Career Opportunities
A Unique Professional Environment
Those exploring Jenner and Block careers will discover a hierarchy-free culture that values ideas from all sources, regardless of seniority. This collaborative environment encourages innovation and allows attorneys at all levels to contribute meaningfully to client matters and firm initiatives.
The firm invests heavily in professional development programs, ensuring attorneys continue to grow and refine their skills throughout their careers. A strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion permeates the organization, while work-life balance initiatives help attorneys maintain fulfilling careers without sacrificing personal wellbeing.
The Trump Executive Order Controversy
Constitutional Challenge of 2025
In March 2025, the firm found itself at the center of a constitutional controversy when the Trump administration issued an executive order specifically targeting Jenner & Block. This unprecedented action raised serious questions about government overreach and the independence of the legal profession.
Jenner & Block’s Response
Refusing to be intimidated, the firm took swift legal action. On March 28, 2025, Jenner & Block filed a lawsuit to stop what it characterized as an unconstitutional executive order. This bold stance demonstrated the firm’s commitment to the rule of law and the principles of an independent judiciary.
Judicial Response
The legal community and judiciary responded supportively to the firm’s challenge. Two district court judges temporarily blocked parts of the executive orders, providing initial vindication for the firm’s position. The Jenner & Block executive order dispute continues to unfold, with significant implications for the relationship between the executive branch and the legal profession.
Several related developments emerged, including judges block Trump executive orders against Jenner & Block WilmerHale, as the administration’s actions affected multiple law firms engaged in work the government opposed.
Broader Implications
The controversy surrounding Trump signs executive order targeting law firm Jenner & Block raised fundamental questions about whether government can punish private law firms for representing clients in cases against the administration. Legal experts widely viewed this as an attack on the adversarial system that underpins American justice.
The Jenner and Block Trump dispute has become a defining moment for the firm, showcasing its willingness to defend constitutional principles even when facing pressure from the highest levels of government.
Diverse Client Base Across Multiple Industries
The firm serves an impressive range of clients across numerous sectors. Technology companies rely on the firm for complex litigation and regulatory guidance. Financial sector clients trust the firm with their most sensitive matters. Media and entertainment companies turn to the firm for content disputes and business transactions. Tribal governments seek the firm’s specialized expertise in sovereignty and economic development issues. Real estate and hospitality clients benefit from the firm’s transactional sophistication, while public sector entities engage the firm for litigation and policy matters.
Conclusion
Jenner & Block stands as a testament to what a law firm can achieve when it combines legal excellence with unwavering commitment to justice and public service. From its founding in 1914 through its current status as an international legal powerhouse, the firm has consistently demonstrated that success in the legal profession doesn’t require compromising values or abandoning those who need legal representation but cannot afford it.
Whether through landmark Supreme Court victories, record-breaking jury verdicts, or courageous stands against government overreach, the firm continues to shape American law and defend the principles that make the justice system work. For legal professionals considering Jenner and Block careers, the firm offers not just employment but an opportunity to be part of a legacy of excellence and service that spans more than a century.