Soven’s portfolio includes some of the most high-profile antitrust matters of the past decade. He has advised on mergers involving Sprint and Deutsche Telekom, Microsoft’s acquisition of LinkedIn, and Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood Hotels. His government and private-sector background gives him a unique vantage point on the evolving antitrust landscape, particularly at a time when U.S. regulators are taking an increasingly aggressive stance on corporate consolidation and market competition.
“Josh brings unparalleled insight into the enforcement priorities of both the DOJ and the FTC, and his track record in handling complex antitrust matters is exceptional,” Paul Hastings said. “His addition will significantly enhance our antitrust and M&A litigation capabilities, particularly in Washington and on a global scale.”
The move also comes amid internal turbulence at Paul Weiss. Recent headlines have highlighted the firm’s challenges in retaining top talent, with several high-profile partners exiting over the past year. Some industry observers link these departures to internal cultural tensions, including backlash from certain clients and attorneys related to pro bono political commitments.
Paul Hastings, by contrast, has been on an upward trajectory, growing aggressively across multiple practice areas. The firm has made significant lateral hires in finance, litigation, and antitrust, positioning itself as a major force in the evolving legal market.
Legal industry analysts view Soven’s move as a win for Paul Hastings not only because of his deep experience but also because of his strong relationships with corporate clients and regulators alike. His government service and private practice credentials position him as a bridge between complex corporate needs and the current regulatory environment, particularly as antitrust enforcement becomes increasingly politicized and global in scope.
