Michelle Mantine, Partner, Head of Antitrust Team and member of Executive Committee, Reed Smith
In an interview with Invest:, Michelle Mantine, executive committee member of Reed Smith, discussed how technological trends drove the firm’s initiatives in providing better client services. “We’ve been an early adopter for certain tools, and we are always looking at other tools that enhance efficiencies while expanding our capabilities,” Mantine said.
What recent changes have most impacted Reed Smith?
The shift in federal administration has had a significant impact on businesses here in Pittsburgh and across the country. Changing policies and priorities have introduced a level of uncertainty that makes long-term planning more difficult for our clients. Companies are reassessing strategies, adjusting to new regulatory landscapes, and rethinking how best to meet their business goals and customer needs. That uncertainty also affects how we, as a firm, advise and support them. Our role is to help clients navigate this evolving environment with flexibility and foresight, so they can continue to move forward with confidence.
What are the emerging or ongoing trends you are seeing in the legal industry?
Innovation and technology are transforming the legal landscape. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence is pushing companies and their counsel to find smarter, faster, and more efficient ways to operate. Pittsburgh, with its long history of innovation, is home to world-class research in robotics, AI, and autonomous vehicles, supported by leading universities and renowned hospitals. That combination makes Pittsburgh a hub where healthcare, technology, and education intersect, fueling growth and opportunity.
For lawyers, that means advising clients not only on how to harness these technologies, but also on how to do so responsibly, compliantly, and with risk mitigation in mind. It’s an exciting vantage point, and one where Pittsburgh continues to distinguish itself.
How does Reed Smith leverage technology and innovation in providing better client services?
Like many firms, we are navigating how to use AI in ways that are both effective and legally sound. The difference is that Reed Smith made significant early investments in this space, so we’ve had a solid foundation to build on. We were the among the first in Big Law to launch a data solutions subsidiary, Gravity Stack, in 2018. We also hired a Chief Innovation Officer five years ago, a Director of Applied AI law last year, and pilot-tested a wide variety of AI tools. We have now trained and certified all of our associates on how to use our AI platform, of which we are seeing widespread adoption, with usage increasing each week.
Importantly, we view AI not as a replacement for lawyers, but as a complement. But the judgment, strategy, and nuance that lawyers bring will always be essential. Our goal is to use technology to enhance those human skills, not replace them.
What industries and services are driving the most demand for Reed Smith in Pittsburgh?
As a global firm with deep Pittsburgh roots, our work spans a wide range of industries. In this region, we’re seeing strong demand in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, antitrust, and employee benefits. The growth of startups and tech firms has fueled opportunities in corporate structuring, intellectual property, and data privacy.
Healthcare remains a major driver, given Pittsburgh’s world-class hospitals and research institutions. Our life sciences and healthcare team is advising across the full spectrum of that ecosystem, from regulatory challenges to transactions. And increasingly, we’re helping clients at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and cybersecurity, sectors that will continue to expand in this market.
Which regulatory changes are having a significant impact on your clients?
The regulatory environment is highly dynamic, and that has real consequences for businesses. Tariffs remain a moving target, influencing supply chains and costs, while the rollback of certain federal competition policies has shifted enforcement activity to the state level. That creates a patchwork of rules that companies must navigate when operating across multiple jurisdictions.
In addition, industries like life sciences and healthcare are undergoing constant regulatory evolution. We expect even greater activity in those areas in the coming years, particularly around pharmaceuticals and medical technology. Our role is to help clients stay agile and compliant as those landscapes change.
What differentiates Reed Smith from other firms in Pittsburgh’s legal landscape?
Pittsburgh has an extraordinary legal community, with many outstanding firms and lawyers. What sets Reed Smith apart is both our history and our ongoing commitment to the city. Founded here in 1877, the firm has played a role in many of Pittsburgh’s landmark redevelopment and community projects. That connection to the city is part of our DNA.
We also believe strongly in giving back. Whether through pro bono representation, board service, or community initiatives, our lawyers and staff are deeply engaged in strengthening the city we call home. You’ll see Reed Smith’s presence not just in corporate boardrooms, but at cultural events, nonprofit organizations, and civic projects throughout the region.
What initiatives does Reed Smith implement in building a robust labor force?
Our people are our greatest asset, and we invest heavily in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent. From the start, our summer associate program provides law students with real-world experience and mentorship, preparing them for long-term success. We complement that with best-in-class training and professional development programs that support lawyers throughout their careers.
We’ve also adapted to changing expectations around work-life balance. Flexible schedules, strong parental leave policies, and support for lawyers through out alumni program who choose to pursue new career paths are all part of how we build a culture that is sustainable and rewarding. The result is a firm where people feel valued and supported, and where they can envision a long-term future.
Pittsburgh itself is part of that story. The city’s evolution from a steel town to a diversified economy including healthcare, technology, education, financial services, and energy, makes it an attractive place to live and work. With its affordability and accessibility to major East Coast cities, it offers young lawyers the best of both worlds.
