Partner, Kirkland & Ellis LLP
De Vries, a partner at the downtown location of Kirkland & Ellis LLP, has repeatedly been ranked among the top intellectual property litigators in the nation. He has secured more than $2.5 billion in verdicts and settlements since 2018, including five consecutive jury verdicts since 2019 that have netted $1.8 billion in damages.
What’s the best advice you ever got? The best advice I ever received was to “do what you love.” Success can come from a variety of places, but if you love what you do, you put yourself in the best position to succeed. And more importantly, you will be happier.
What’s your favorite movie, all time and in any category? “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
What’s at the top of your bucket list? To go to Mars – but since I think that’s pretty unlikely, I’d like to travel to Antarctica sometime!
What was your first car? Toyota Corolla FX.
Would you like to have that car back? Absolutely – it had great gas mileage, was easy to park, and best of all, was a hatchback.
What’s the best thing about living in Los Angeles? The best thing about living here has to be the people. I don’t know anywhere in the world with a more vibrant, diverse culture, and feel so fortunate to live here.
YEARS ON LA500: 5
