David Lat (born 1975) is an American legal journalist, author, and commentator best known for founding the legal news blog Above the Law. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School. After completing a clerkship with a federal judge, Lat practiced law as an associate at the New York‑based firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
In 2006, Lat launched Above the Law, a blog that provides news, analysis, and commentary on the legal profession, law firms, and the judicial system. The site quickly became influential for its insider perspective, satirical tone, and coverage of law firm rankings, recruiting trends, and legal culture. Lat’s writing style combines investigative reporting with humor, and he is noted for his willingness to critique both large firms and the broader legal establishment.
Lat has authored several books, including Sweetheart Deal (2006), a legal thriller, and The Fifth Estate: The Media’s Role in the Rise of the Courts (2020). He has contributed op‑eds and articles to publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, and The Huffington Post. Lat is also a frequent speaker at legal conferences and law school events, where he discusses topics such as legal journalism, law firm culture, and the evolving landscape of legal education.
In addition to his writing, Lat has served as an adjunct professor at several law schools and has been involved in initiatives aimed at increasing transparency in the legal profession. His work has earned both praise for shedding light on previously opaque aspects of the legal market and criticism from some attorneys who perceive his commentary as overly sensationalist.
As of 2023, Above the Law remains a widely read source within the legal community, with a readership that includes attorneys, law students, and firms seeking insight into industry trends. Lat continues to oversee the site's editorial direction while maintaining an active presence on social media platforms where he engages with legal professionals and the public.