Brad S. Karp

Brad S. Karp is Chairman of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP and one of the country’s leading litigators and corporate advisers. Since beginning his career at the firm, he has guided Fortune 100 companies, global financial institutions, and other major clients through “bet the company” litigation, regulatory matters, internal investigations, and corporate crises. Known for unmatched courtroom and boardroom strategy, Brad is described as one of the most connected and effective lawyers in America.

Brad earned his B.A. from Union College, summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, and his J.D. from Harvard Law School, cum laude. Following graduation, he clerked for Judge Irving R. Kaufman of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. His academic and clerkship background laid the foundation for his success in complex litigation, securities disputes, corporate governance matters, and high-profile investigations involving financial and global institutions.

Brad has been recognized repeatedly as “Litigator of the Year,” “Lawyer of the Year,” and a “Legend in the Law” by leading legal publications. Chambers describes him as “the best strategic adviser in the business” and “worth his weight in gold.” His representation of financial institutions, sports organizations, and multinational corporations in multibillion-dollar cases has set benchmarks in securities litigation, white collar defense, and crisis management, reinforcing his reputation as one of the nation’s most effective trial lawyers.

Beyond litigation, Brad S. Karp contributes extensively to legal scholarship, public service, and social justice. He has written hundreds of articles, delivered over 700 lectures, and authored influential op-eds on corporate governance, diversity, and the rule of law. He serves on more than 50 nonprofit, cultural, and educational boards and has received numerous awards for pro bono and community service. His leadership reflects a career defined by advocacy, integrity, and commitment to justice.

Law Office Affiliations

• Chairman, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP
• Co-Chair, New York State Bar Association
• Member, New York City Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• Harvard Law School
  Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD)
• Union College
  BA with Summa Cum Laude

Awards & Badges