William Savitt: The Attorney Representing OpenAI in Musk v. Altman Trial
William Savitt, a seasoned corporate litigator, is representing OpenAI in the high-profile lawsuit filed by Elon Musk against Sam Altman and OpenAI.
William Savitt, a partner at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, is representing OpenAI in the ongoing lawsuit filed by Elon Musk against Sam Altman and OpenAI. The case centers on Musk's allegations that OpenAI's transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit entity violated its original mission.
Savitt has a history of high-profile cases, including representing Twitter in 2022 when the company sued Musk to enforce his acquisition agreement. In that case, Savitt secured crucial court rulings that led Musk to complete the $44 billion purchase.
During the current trial, Savitt cross-examined Musk about his financial contributions to OpenAI. Musk acknowledged donating $38 million but admitted he did not read the 'fine print' regarding the company's structural changes. Savitt also highlighted Musk's involvement in early discussions about OpenAI's transition to a for-profit model.
Before his legal career, Savitt pursued music, playing in bands and driving a cab to support himself. He later attended Columbia Law School, where he was editor-in-chief of the Columbia Law Review, and clerked for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
The trial continues in Oakland, California, with significant implications for OpenAI's future and the broader AI industry.
