If readers will permit a brief non-substantive post, I wanted to note my truly mixed emotions over the announcement that David Howard has accepted the position of Corporate Vice President and Deputy General Counsel in charge of litigation at Microsoft Corporation. It is a great opportunity for him and too good to pass up, even with a move to the other coast.

David was a law school classmate of mine; in another century we toiled on the Penn Law Review together.  Years later, he was the first one to approach me about the possibility that I might move my practice.

He has been a valued colleague to all of us, and a true leader in the firm.  I was pleased and confident to refer my clients to him for able assistance with white collar and securities litigation issues.

Our loss is Microsoft’s great gain.  Here’s wishing David and his family well in his new endeavor!