February 25, 2026
Foley Hoag Partner Yoni Bard was recently profiled in Law.com’s “How I Made Partner” series, where he shared insights into his career path, the qualities that contributed to his promotion, and his advice for rising attorneys.
Bard, who has been with the firm since graduating law school, noted that Foley Hoag’s reputation and culture were central to his choice. “I chose Foley Hoag based largely on its reputation for having excellent attorneys who are also friendly, collaborative, and creative,” he said. “I really liked the idea of being at a smaller-sized ‘Big Law’ firm, which I thought—and still think—offers the best of both worlds.”
Reflecting on what helped him make partner, Bard emphasized a combination of skill development, strategic focus, and consistent dedication. “I had a good combination of the right skills… and I worked extremely hard,” he explained. “I was intentional and strategic in how I framed my practice mix and presented the business case for my promotion.”
Bard also highlighted the importance of being both a strong lawyer and a great colleague. “The attorneys I have truly admired are those who not only demonstrate mastery in their practice, but also improve their environment… through their attitude and actions,” he said.
His practice has evolved over time to include debtor‑creditor disputes, bankruptcy, white-collar defense, and government and internal investigations. Bard described this evolution as a product of flexibility and openness: “It’s important to pursue a plan, but you also need to go with the flow, keep an open mind, and seize opportunities.”
A member of Foley Hoag’s Innovation Committee, Bard also spoke about the firm’s leadership in embracing new technology. “What distinguishes my work—and the work of others at Foley Hoag—is our advanced stage of AI adoption,” he noted.
When offering advice to associates, Bard underscored the power of early impressions and adaptability. “Show that you’re a high performer and a terrific colleague from day one,” he advised.
