January 2026 – Lawdragon, a legal publication that annually recognizes “brilliant, impassioned, and dedicated lawyers who lead the way for clients, their communities, and their firms,” named KBK Partner Richard B. Kendall to its 2026 “Leading Lawyers in America” guide.
Mr. Kendall was recognized among this year’s honorees for his ongoing and recent work serving as lead counsel for many of Hollywood’s biggest names. Over his more than four decades practicing law, Mr. Kendall has successfully litigated countless high-stakes civil cases and arbitrations. In addition to founding and leading KBK, he is the go-to trial counsel for notable longstanding clients, including Paramount and MTV, who have relied on his expertise for over 25 years.
A former federal prosecutor, Mr. Kendall has argued two matters before the U.S. Supreme Court, successfully resolved unprecedented challenges to the First Amendment and the rights of privacy and publicity, and litigated asset confiscation and recovery claims connected to the fall of Saigon and the overthrow of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. His practice has spanned multiple contents and leading judicial and arbitration forums worldwide.
He is regularly recognized by the industry’s leading awards and rankings publications. He is a Band 1 Chambers-ranked attorney, regularly ranked among Hollywood Reporter’s Power Lawyers, and a current and repeat Variety Leading Lawyer. Daily Journal, Benchmark Litigation, the Legal 500, and Lawdragon also regularly recognize Mr. Kendall among the state’s and nation’s top attorneys.
Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Lawyers in America List is selected using a combination of research, survey, and nominations. For more information and to read the list in full, please click here.