Our Firm

We strive for uncompromising quality and deliver unparalleled
expertise in the advice and service we provide to our clients.
We offer a lean team that provides the best possible result at a far greater value.

9

Offices

340+

Attorneys and Staff

8,300+

Pro Bono Hours

185+

Years in Practice

Clients count on us for solutions that require innovation and imagination. We stand apart because of the variation and complexity of the matters we handle.

A Way Better Approach

More than a law firm, Phillips Lytle is a trusted legal and business advisor. Not only do we strive to be absolute authorities who are ultra-responsive in delivering services, but we get to know our clients so well that it engenders a relationship of trust. It’s a collaborative approach that empowers us to provide 360-degree advice in the context of what’s happening in the business and how the industry is evolving.

Our Attorneys Are the Difference

There is a deeper and broader level of experience that our attorneys bring to the table. This level of expertise means that when we review a contract, a complaint, or a transaction, we can see more deeply and spot issues before they become issues. We consistently turn reactive matters into proactive responses. It’s no wonder that most of our work comes through recommendations and the personal relationships our attorneys have built with other clients.

FIRM RECOGNITION
Best Law Firms ranked by Best Lawyers United States 2024

Our History


While we’ve grown and evolved during our 185+ year history, we’ve always held fast to the principles upon which our firm was founded, “Accept great trusts and responsibilities and fulfill them with the utmost skill and fidelity.” Our growth has only made us more ready and able to better aid clients from coast to coast and around the globe—from an office in Canada providing cross-border expertise, to one in DC focusing on international business and political matters.

Milestone 1834

When Phillips Lytle was founded in 1834 as a one-man office, Orsamus H. Marshall couldn’t have imagined that what he started would result in a law firm of regional and national prestige. Recognition by The Best Lawyers in America,® U.S. News – Best Lawyers,® Super Lawyers and Chambers USA didn’t happen by chance. It was bestowed on us through the glowing feedback gained from our satisfied clients and peers.

Milestone 1874

Grover Cleveland joins Phillips Lytle.

Milestone 1897

Kenefick Cooke era — Walter P. Cooke joins the firm.

Milestone 1906

Kenefick Cooke era — Daniel J. Kenefick joins the firm.

Milestone 1928

Phillips Lytle era — George F. Phillips joins the firm.

Milestone 1946

Phillips Lytle era — William E. Lytle joins the firm.

Milestone 2003

Phillips, Lytle, Hitchcock, Blaine & Huber LLP is renamed to Phillips Lytle LLP.

Milestone 2009

Phillips Lytle celebrates its 175th anniversary.

Milestone 2013

The new headquarters is opened at One Canalside keeping with the tradition of remaining on lower Main Street in the city of Buffalo.

Milestone 2022

The firm’s first Midwest office opens in Chicago.

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A Commitment to Diversity

We promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal profession and in our law firm. The different perspectives, backgrounds and experiences of every colleague strengthen Phillips Lytle.

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Law Students

Affiliations & Partner Organizations

Strong relationships and partnerships with outside organizations are essential to the success of our law firm. Phillips Lytle has long-standing connections with key agencies, industry associations and business advocacy groups. So we know the right phone calls to make, the ideal timing to get involved and how to cut through red tape.

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Our Power Is Our People

The talent that resides at Phillips Lytle is world-class. That means ultra-responsive service and absolute subject matter expertise. It’s time to engage a different caliber of attorney.

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Areas of Practice
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Practices

We pride ourselves on being a multifaceted law firm with talented teams offering extensive experience in a wide range of practice areas.

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Practices

We pride ourselves on being a multifaceted law firm with talented teams offering extensive experience in a wide range of practice areas.

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Industries We Serve
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Industries

There is nothing cookie-cutter about what we do. We offer bespoke services rooted in deep knowledge of the industries shaping our world.

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Industries

There is nothing cookie-cutter about what we do. We offer bespoke services rooted in deep knowledge of the industries shaping our world.

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Find Your Home Here

Our investment in professional development means clients work with a cohesive, dedicated team that is at the top of the profession. And talented attorneys enjoy a collaborative law firm environment that they can call home.

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