In the world of corporate litigation, few lawyers are as revered as William Savitt. With a resume that includes clerking for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and representing clients like Brad Pitt, Savitt is a veteran of the courtroom. But what makes Savitt truly fascinating is his journey from cab driver and rock band singer to one of the most powerful lawyers in the country. In this article, I'll explore Savitt's background, his rise to prominence, and his role in the ongoing trial between Sam Altman and Elon Musk. I'll also delve into the broader implications of the case and what it means for the future of artificial intelligence.
Savitt's story begins in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when he was a young man with a guitar and a dream. He spent his 20s in a series of bands, playing in CBGBs and touring in Philadelphia and Baltimore. To pay the bills, he drove a cab, fact-checked for National Geographic and the Smithsonian magazines, and freelanced for obscure business trade publications. But it was his time in graduate school and law school that set him on the path to success.
Savitt's clerkship for Judge Pierre Leval on the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan was a turning point in his career. Leval, who took senior status in 2002 and remains on the bench, lavished praise on Savitt as a "brilliant" lawyer. Savitt's disagreement with Leval in a case involving a domestic worker who sued her employer after falling off a ladder is a testament to his tenacity and commitment to justice.
Savitt's next stop was Justice Ginsburg's chambers, where he clerked for her between 1998 and 1999. He described the Supreme Court term as "relatively collegial" despite the philosophical differences on the bench. Savitt's time at the Supreme Court gave him a unique perspective on the legal system and a deep understanding of the law.
Savitt's rise to prominence continued at Wachtell, where he has spent 30 years defending clients in complex cases. He has represented Dell in its transition to a private company, Sotheby's against an activist investor attack, and numerous Wachtell clients in mergers and acquisitions. Savitt's expertise extends to the finer points of corporate law, particularly in Delaware, where most public companies choose to incorporate.
Savitt's role in the Altman-Musk trial is particularly intriguing. As a top lawyer at Wachtell, Savitt has a history with both Altman and Musk. He represented Twitter in its lawsuit against Musk, and he has worked with OpenAI on various matters, including acquisitions and fundraising. Savitt's challenge is to show the jury that Musk's real goal is to dismantle OpenAI in an attempt to boost xAI, his own artificial intelligence company.
The Altman-Musk trial raises deeper questions about the future of artificial intelligence and the role of corporations in shaping it. As AI continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the ethical implications of its development and the responsibilities of those who control it. Savitt's role in the trial is a reminder of the importance of corporate governance and the need for transparency and accountability in the tech industry.
In conclusion, William Savitt is a fascinating figure in the world of corporate litigation. His journey from cab driver and rock band singer to one of the most powerful lawyers in the country is a testament to his tenacity and commitment to justice. As the Altman-Musk trial unfolds, Savitt's role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence is a reminder of the importance of corporate governance and the need for transparency and accountability in the tech industry.
