Kent A. Gardiner

A former U.S. Department of Justice trial attorney, Kent has led the defense of high-profile cartel investigations and antitrust litigation for matters involving railroads, airlines, high-tech companies, and major manufacturers. Kent also devotes a considerable portion of his practice to counseling and training companies on reducing antitrust and other litigation risks.

Recognized by Chambers USA as a leading antitrust lawyer, Kent was cited for knowing "how to take a hard line when need be, but . . . equally savvy at reaching settlements using diplomacy." He was named in The National Law Journal’s list of Antitrust "Trailblazers & Pioneers" for pioneering approaches to bringing antitrust recovery actions on behalf of corporate clients that have been injured by pricing overcharges or other fraudulent conduct. In this practice, Kent has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for major corporations and has helped dozens of in-house legal departments create comprehensive recovery programs. Kent has also been recognized by Super Lawyers as a leading antitrust litigation lawyer.

During Kent’s tenure as Crowell & Moring’s chair from 2006 to 2015, the firm experienced nine consecutive years of growth and market expansion, doubling its size and adding major offices in New York and California. Named to Law360’s list of "Most Innovative Managing Partners," Kent spearheaded new approaches to client service, retention of talent, and alternative fee arrangements that emphasized partnership between the firm and its clients. Under his leadership, the firm was named to Washington Business Journal’s list of "Best Places to Work" and FT Innovative Lawyers "Most Innovative Firms."

Kent is a member of the board of directors of Coqual (formerly the Center for Talent Innovation), which works to empower women and other diverse professionals to rise in major corporations and other professional organizations. Coqual drives ground-breaking research that creates best practices in advancing retention of, and leadership opportunities for, diverse professionals.

Kent is a member of the New York and District of Columbia bars, as well as many federal, district, and appellate courts.