Silicon Valley law firm Gunderson Dettmer is making a bold move into Atlanta, luring three key partners from Morris Manning & Martin—including the firm’s co-chair—to launch its new office in the city. The expansion strengthens Gunderson’s foothold in the Southeast’s burgeoning venture capital and emerging companies sector.
High-Profile Departures Shake Morris Manning
Veteran tech attorney John Yates, a longtime fixture at Morris Manning, is among the defectors. Yates spent over 35 years at the firm and was recently named co-chairman in June. His departure signals a major shift in leadership.
Joe Berklund, who led Morris Manning’s emerging companies and venture capital practice while also overseeing its Florida operations, is also making the transition. Partner Zach Crowe rounds out the trio of departing attorneys. Their move underscores the increasing competition for top legal talent in the venture capital and startup space.
One more name is joining them—Gunderson partner Jason Cummings, who has been instrumental in setting up the firm’s Southeast presence. The firm says this marks a “significant milestone” in its strategy for regional growth.
Gunderson Bets Big on Atlanta
Gunderson’s managing partner, Jeff Higgins, emphasized the firm’s commitment to Atlanta’s tech and investment ecosystem.
“After more than a decade in the region, this expansion marks a significant milestone in our growth strategy. We are doubling down on the region’s thriving venture capital and emerging companies ecosystem,” Higgins said in a statement.
The firm has historically focused on representing high-growth startups and venture capital firms. With around 500 lawyers across 12 offices, Gunderson continues to stake its claim as a dominant force in the tech-driven legal market.
Morris Manning Faces Another Setback
The loss of Yates, Berklund, and Crowe comes at a tough time for Morris Manning. Just weeks earlier, around a dozen partners—several of them practice leaders—left for Reed Smith as that firm also expanded its Atlanta presence.
Despite the exits, Morris Manning insists it remains on solid footing. Managing partner Simon Malko struck a confident tone, emphasizing the firm’s broad industry reach.
“We wish our former partners well,” Malko said in an email. “As I shared when they announced they were leaving, we have diverse practice areas and industries, and we remain financially strong and committed to continuing to grow the firm.”
A Competitive Legal Landscape
Atlanta has become a battleground for law firms looking to tap into the Southeast’s rising venture capital and startup activity. The city’s lower cost of living and strong university pipeline make it an attractive hub for emerging tech companies. That’s drawing more legal heavyweights into the mix, leading to an increasingly aggressive talent war.
The recent moves by both Gunderson and Reed Smith highlight the trend. As firms compete for high-profile attorneys and key practice groups, more shake-ups are likely on the horizon.
