Leigh Walton

Leigh Walton is a prominent partner at Bass, Berry & Sims PLC, where she has been a key figure since joining the firm in 1979. With over 40 years of legal experience, she specializes in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, and securities offerings, primarily for public companies in the healthcare sector.123

Professional Background

• Education: Leigh earned her Juris Doctor (JD) from Vanderbilt Law School in 1979, where she graduated with honors (Order of the Coif). She also holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Randolph-Macon Woman's College, graduating Phi Beta Kappa in 1973.2
• Teaching: She serves as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Vanderbilt University Law School, focusing on Healthcare Mergers and Acquisitions.23
• Leadership Roles: Leigh has held significant positions within various legal organizations, including:
  • Past Chair of the American Bar Association’s Business Law Section Mergers & Acquisitions Committee.
  • Member of the American College of Governance Counsel since 2019.
  • Board member of the Nashville Bar Association.234

Achievements and Recognition

Leigh has been recognized as a leading attorney in her field by several prestigious publications:

• Chambers USA: Recognized as a Senior Statesperson in Healthcare law.
• Best Lawyers in America: Consistently listed since 1995 for multiple practice areas including Corporate Governance Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Law.23
• Lawdragon: Named one of the 500 Leading Dealmakers in America for 2024 and inducted into their Hall of Fame.3

Contributions to the Legal Community

Throughout her career, Leigh has been dedicated to advancing women's roles in the legal profession and has actively participated in community service initiatives. She has emphasized the importance of mentoring young female attorneys and promoting diversity within the legal field.56

Leigh Walton's extensive experience and leadership have made her a respected figure in corporate law, particularly within the healthcare industry.