Cohen Seglias Leader Discusses Growing From Construction Practice into Full-Service Law Firm
Midsize firm Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman has relied on strategic and intentional growth to expand beyond its construction law roots.
- Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman started as a construction-law firm, but has added a full range of practices over decades.
- Managing partner Steven Williams said the midsize firm competes with firms of all sizes in the hiring market.
- The firm is using AI with ‘significant safeguards.’
Firm Name: Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman
Firm Leader: Steven Williams, managing partner
Head Count: 84
Locations: Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, Wilmington, Newark, New York, Washington, D.C., Louisville and Fort Lauderdale
Practice Areas: Cohen Seglias began as a construction-focused law firm, and over the last 30 years has grown to provide a full range of legal services in addition to being home to one of the largest construction practices in the country. Its footprint and capabilities have evolved to meet the needs of its clients across many industries.
What is your firm’s governance structure and compensation model?
Cohen Seglias has a multidimensional management structure. As managing partner, I am responsible for the day-to-day operations of the firm. We have a unique structure that purposefully engages multiple perspectives and duties, and I work closely with the co-chief executive officers, the chief operating officer, the executive committee of owners and nonowners, and the board of directors.
The firm believes that compensation and bonuses should be based on merit and contributions to the firm, rather than on seniority or a lockstep system. Although we rely on data regarding hours and collections in determining compensation for lawyers, our compensation plan is not entirely formulaic.
Do you offer alternative fee arrangements?
Yes, we will work with clients on alternative fee arrangements such as a flat rate agreed on at the beginning of a matter or an alternative fee arrangement customized for particular work.
