SAN DIEGO (November 2025) - Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney continues its strategic growth with the addition of Nicole Gates Lean in its San Diego office. Lean joins the firm as a senior attorney, bringing more than a decade of in-house and law firm experience advising clients on complex commercial transactions, intellectual property licensing strategies, and brand management.
“We are thrilled to welcome her to our team in San Diego,” said Jason Murtagh, shareholder and head of the San Diego office. “It is an exciting area of opportunity, and with Nicole’s addition, we are positioned to have continued growth.”
Previously serving as Vice President of Legal for the iconic Dr. Seuss brand, her corporate practice focuses on supporting clients across various industries in structuring deals that protect innovation, strengthen brand value, and foster long-term growth. Earlier in her career, she advised technology, media, and consumer products clients on commercial contracts and other IP-centric transactions at international law firms.
“Our corporate practice in California continues to be an area of strategic focus for the firm,” said Jennifer Minter, executive shareholder and corporate section chair. “Joining the firm as a former in-house leader, Nicole deeply understands the needs of our clients. With her experience, we will continue to enhance how we are serving clients in California and across our national footprint.”
“Nicole is an excellent addition to our corporate team in California,” added Matt Short, shareholder and head of the California corporate group. “She helps clients navigate complex issues with her business acumen, and she offers practical legal strategies to help move their brands forward. I am excited to see what we will achieve as a team.”
“I am looking forward to this new opportunity at Buchanan,” said Lean. “They’ve built an excellent team in San Diego, and the firm has an impressive national corporate practice. I am excited to expand my practice and experience with my new colleagues.”
Lean holds a law degree from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law and a bachelor's degree from the University of Virginia.