Fortifying Its Client-Focused Commitment to AI Counseling and Strategy, BT Taps Partners Brian McGinnis and Kaitlyn Stone to Lead Future Efforts

“Brian and Kate are highly respected advisors with deep, up-to-the-moment knowledge of AI and its rapidly evolving role in the legal and business landscape,” Managing Partner Andrew J. Detherage said. “As the stakes continue to rise in this area, their leadership will benefit our clients by strengthening and driving our commitment to the most advanced understanding of AI paired with a pragmatic approach to its implementation and use.”

In their new roles, McGinnis and Stone will lead the firm’s multidisciplinary AI practice strategy, ensure collaboration and alignment across client counseling, and coordinate the firm’s approach to issues related to the development, adoption and use of AI across industries. 

A certified information privacy professional (CIPP/US) and the firm’s first chief privacy officer, McGinnis also co-chairs the firm’s Data Security and Privacy practice and has more than 20 years’ experience guiding clients through the complexities of technology, privacy and data protection issues. He is a frequent speaker on AI-related matters, including providing continuing education credit for lawyers and certified privacy professionals through legal groups and for the International Association of Privacy Professionals. Among his many professional commitments, McGinnis also serves on the executive board of TechLaw, where he leads the organization’s privacy group.

“I’m thrilled to take on this leadership role at a time when AI is rapidly transforming nearly every industry,” said McGinnis. “AI has become central to how modern businesses operate, compete, and mitigate risk. The legal questions AI raises don't exist in isolation; they run across areas of law including technology, privacy, and data protection. This intersection has defined my practice, and means our clients get a team of trusted advisors who see the full picture, not fragmented guidance. I’m excited to help shape a multidisciplinary AI practice that empowers our clients to meet this moment.”

Based in Morristown, New Jersey, Stone is a forward-looking litigator and leading author and speaker on AI-related issues and challenges within business and legal environments. She defends companies in a variety of high-stakes litigation. Stone represents life sciences, pharmaceutical and medical device companies across a broad spectrum of complex litigation, including product liability and mass tort matters. She is a member of the New Jersey State Bar Association’s AI Committee. Stone previously served as a law clerk for the Superior Court of New Jersey Appellate Division.

“I am pleased to step into this expanded leadership role, drawing on my work at the intersection of AI and litigation,” Stone said. “AI remains one of today’s most quickly evolving areas in law and business, and Barnes & Thornburg is exceptionally well-positioned to help clients stay nimble and ahead of developments.”

Barnes & Thornburg’s AI practice encompasses AI strategy and governance, regulatory and risk management, labor and employment, intellectual property, data privacy and security, and commercial and technology agreements. 

About Barnes & Thornburg

Barnes & Thornburg operates 26 offices across the United States, enabling more than 850 lawyers to serve clients nationwide. As one of the 100 largest law firms in the country, we provide seamless coast-to-coast coverage for high-stakes litigation, complex transactions and innovative IP matters. Our national reach and knowledge of local markets help clients conduct business confidently wherever opportunities arise.