Tucker Ellis LLP proudly announces that James Mizgala, currently the Partner-in-Charge of the firm’s Chicago office, has been elected to serve as the firm’s next Managing Partner, effective January 1, 2026. He will succeed Joe Morford, who has guided the firm in that capacity since 2010. This planned transition underscores Tucker Ellis’s enduring commitment to thoughtful succession planning, collaborative leadership, and uncompromising client service.

A U.S. Army veteran and trained neuroscientist, Mr. Mizgala brings more than three decades of nationwide litigation experience spanning pharmaceutical products liability, complex commercial disputes, and consumer fraud matters. Since joining Tucker Ellis nearly 10 years ago, he has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s strategic growth, spearheading initiatives in artificial intelligence, information governance, and leadership development. Mr. Mizgala earned his law degree with honors from the University of North Carolina School of Law, holds a master’s degree in management from Johns Hopkins University, and received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Cornell University.

“I am deeply honored to have been elected Managing Partner of a firm that has exceeded every expectation I had when I arrived,” Mr. Mizgala said. “Tucker Ellis is exceptional in combining excellence, collegiality, and purpose, and I am grateful for the opportunity to guide our continued growth while building on the strong foundation Joe has established. This is more than a change in leadership; it is a reaffirmation of our mission and our client-first culture.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Morford remarked, “Serving as Managing Partner of Tucker Ellis has been the privilege of a lifetime. In just over 22 years, we have grown from a startup into one of the nation’s most respected law firms without ever compromising the values that shape us—exceptional client service and an unwavering commitment to our people. I’m working closely with James throughout this transition and I’m confident that the future of the firm is in outstanding hands.”

Tucker Ellis congratulates Mr. Mizgala and extends its gratitude to Mr. Morford for his remarkable leadership. The firm looks forward to continuing to deliver superior legal counsel while fostering the culture of excellence that has defined Tucker Ellis since its founding in 2003.