Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (and Affiliates) is a prominent American multinational corporate law firm headquartered in New York City. Founded on April 1, 1948, by Marshall Skadden, Leslie (Les) Arps, and John Slate, the firm started as a small advisory practice challenging the established 'white shoe' law firms of the era. Joseph Flom joined as the first associate in 1948, bringing innovative and aggressive approaches to hostile takeovers and corporate restructuring that propelled the firm's growth and shaped its client-focused culture, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s under his leadership. William R. Meagher became a partner in 1959, completing the firm's current name. That same year, the firm hired its first female attorney, Elizabeth Head.

From these humble beginnings, Skadden grew rapidly to become one of the world's largest and most profitable law firms. It employs approximately 1,700 to 1,800 lawyers across more than 20 offices worldwide in the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, including key financial centers such as London, Tokyo, Beijing, and São Paulo. The firm ranks fourth in gross revenue among U.S. firms with estimated revenue exceeding $2 billion.

Skadden is renowned for its expertise in corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, litigation, and regulatory compliance. It provides comprehensive legal services spanning 26 practice areas across 11 industries, including antitrust, bankruptcy, energy, finance, technology, healthcare, and international trade, with a strong emphasis on cross-border deals. The firm represents major corporations, financial institutions, Fortune 500 companies, high-profile clients, governments, and nonprofits in complex transactions, disputes, and policy-shaping work. It has played pivotal roles in landmark mergers, such as those in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors, and has advised on significant regulatory matters before bodies like the SEC and FTC.

Despite its success and influence as a key player in networks of corporate power, Skadden has faced scrutiny for its involvement in controversial cases, including representations in opioid litigation and international arbitration. The firm maintains a commitment to pro bono work and diversity initiatives. It is celebrated for delivering high-quality advice and novel solutions to enable clients to navigate challenging legal environments and achieve strategic business objectives.