In a dynamic and challenging 2025, Kristina Lawson, Managing Partner of Hanson Bridgett LLP, has emerged as a standout leader, steering the California-based AmLaw 200 law firm through economic uncertainty, political volatility, and industry shifts while driving significant growth. As the first female Managing Partner in the firm’s 65-year history, Lawson’s leadership has been recognized with accolades like the San Francisco Business Times’ Most Admired CEO award and a spot on Lawdragon’s 2025 list of 100 Managing Partners You Need to Know. Her approach—rooted in collaboration, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and strategic expansion—offers insights for businesses and leaders navigating turbulent times. Here’s a clear look at how Lawson has led Hanson Bridgett’s growth, her strategies for managing challenges, and what it means for the legal industry and beyond.
Leading Through Tumult
Lawson took the helm as Managing Partner in January 2021, becoming the first woman to lead Hanson Bridgett, a firm with over 200 attorneys across California. Her tenure began amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a racial reckoning in the legal industry, and economic uncertainty. In a July 2025 interview with Above the Law, Lawson described leading during these “challenging times” as requiring a focus on values-based leadership, fostering collaboration, and empowering attorneys and staff at all levels.
The legal industry in 2025 faces additional pressures: political backlash against DEI initiatives, rising client expectations for tech-driven efficiency, and economic headwinds from proposed tariffs and inflation risks. Lawson has navigated these by doubling down on Hanson Bridgett’s core strengths—its California focus, inclusive culture, and innovative programs—while expanding strategically. Her re-election in February 2024 for a second three-year term reflects the firm’s confidence in her vision.
Driving Growth and Innovation
Under Lawson’s leadership, Hanson Bridgett has grown its footprint and influence. The firm, founded in 1958, has expanded to six offices across California, serving clients from Fortune 500 companies to public agencies like the Golden Gate Bridge District. In 2023, Lawson oversaw a 10% revenue increase, driven by demand in real estate, environmental, and healthcare practices, as reported by Law360. The firm also advised on high-profile deals, like the $69 million sale of Project Cannabis to Columbia Care.
Lawson has prioritized innovation, particularly in attorney development and client service. In 2021, Hanson Bridgett revamped associate compensation, introducing productivity and sabbatical bonuses to combat burnout, a response to data showing women attorneys leaving the profession during the pandemic. This program, now benefiting all high-performing associates, has improved retention across the board. The firm’s remote-flexible model, praised in The Recorder, allows attorneys to work effectively while maintaining client relationships.
As a certified B Corp—the first law firm to earn this status—Hanson Bridgett has leaned into social impact under Lawson. It was a founding member of the Legal Alliance for Reproductive Rights in 2022, offering pro bono services post-Dobbs. Lawson’s focus on pro bono work and community engagement, highlighted in a 2021 Bloomberg Law interview, has attracted clients who value social responsibility.
Commitment to DEI
Lawson has made DEI a cornerstone, reinforcing Hanson Bridgett’s reputation as a leader in diversity. The firm ranks highly on Law360 and The American Lawyer lists for female and minority attorneys, with 46% of attorneys and 40% of partners being women in 2020. Facing 2025’s political backlash against DEI, Lawson told Above the Law that the firm “doubled down” on inclusive policies, ensuring they comply with law while fostering belonging. The appointment of Jennifer Martinez as Chief DEI Officer in 2020 underscores this commitment.
Her background as a former mayor of Walnut Creek (2010–2014) and President of the Medical Board of California (2020–2023, re-elected 2024) informs her inclusive leadership style. Lawson’s civic experience, including her role as Chair of the Bay Area Council’s Board since July 2023, helps her navigate complex political and economic landscapes.
Expertise in Land Use and Environmental Law
Before becoming Managing Partner, Lawson led Hanson Bridgett’s Real Estate + Environment Section, earning recognition as one of California’s top land use lawyers by the Daily Journal in 2014. Her expertise in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance and complex entitlement projects, like guiding mixed-use developments in Berkeley, has bolstered the firm’s reputation in high-stakes legal matters. This technical knowledge informs her strategic vision, ensuring the firm capitalizes on growing demand in these areas.
Challenges and Strategies in 2025
Lawson faces significant challenges in 2025. Economic volatility, driven by tariffs and inflation risks (projected at 3.5% by year-end), pressures clients to demand cost-effective services. The legal industry’s shift toward AI adoption adds complexity, with 73% of large firms using AI chatbots but only 22% seeing high adoption rates. Lawson’s strategy includes investing in AI to streamline tasks like document review while maintaining human oversight to address client concerns about data security.
Political volatility, including backlash against DEI, requires careful navigation. Lawson’s public service experience helps her craft legally compliant DEI programs that withstand scrutiny while fostering inclusivity. She also balances growth with culture, as rapid expansion can strain firm cohesion, a concern raised in posts on X about maintaining culture during growth.
Why This Matters
Lawson’s leadership offers lessons for U.S. businesses and law firms. Her focus on values-driven growth—emphasizing DEI, innovation, and community impact—shows how to thrive amid uncertainty. The firm’s 6th B Corp certification in 2022 and recognition as a top workplace for women highlight her success. For clients, Hanson Bridgett’s tailored, tech-savvy services meet 2025’s demand for efficiency. For attorneys, programs like sabbatical bonuses signal a firm that prioritizes well-being.
Lawson’s accolades—San Francisco Business Times’ Power 100 (2023, 2024), Lawdragon’s 2025 Managing Partners list, and a finalist for ALM’s 2025 California Legal Awards—reflect her influence. Her ability to grow a midsize firm while maintaining its California roots offers a model for regional firms competing with national giants.
What’s Next?
Lawson’s second term, running through 2027, will focus on expanding Hanson Bridgett’s presence in high-demand areas like environmental law and healthcare while integrating AI responsibly. The firm’s global affiliations, like Globalaw, will support clients with international needs. Lawson’s leadership of the Bay Area Council, addressing regional issues like housing and climate resilience, will keep her at the forefront of civic and legal innovation.
Lessons for Leaders and Firms
- Embrace Values-Based Leadership: Lawson’s focus on DEI and social impact attracts talent and clients, proving values drive success.
- Innovate Strategically: Programs like sabbatical bonuses address industry challenges like burnout, boosting retention.
- Leverage Expertise: Lawson’s land use background informs her strategic vision, showing the value of deep industry knowledge.
Conclusion
Kristina Lawson’s leadership at Hanson Bridgett LLP in 2025 demonstrates how to grow a law firm during tumult. By prioritizing DEI, innovation, and client-focused services, she has driven a 10% revenue increase, expanded the firm’s influence, and earned widespread recognition. Her ability to navigate economic, political, and technological challenges—while maintaining a collaborative culture—offers a blueprint for U.S. businesses. As Lawson continues to lead, Hanson Bridgett stands as a model for midsize firms balancing growth with purpose in a turbulent world.