Josh Duclos Obituary: Partner at Sidley Austin LLP Passes Away –
Josh Duclos Obituary: Remembering Esteemed Partner at Sidley Austin LLP
The legal community is mourning the loss of Josh Duclos, a highly respected Partner at Sidley Austin LLP, whose passing has left colleagues, clients, and friends deeply saddened. Known for his brilliance, professionalism, and humility, Josh’s sudden passing marks a profound loss to the world of corporate law, where his impact was both far-reaching and enduring.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Josh Duclos built an exceptional career at Sidley Austin LLP, one of the world’s leading law firms. He specialized in representing private equity sponsors, public and private companies, and their stakeholders in complex transactions such as buyouts, investments, and divestitures.
His expertise spanned several industries — including technology, software, mining and minerals, internet and social media, media and entertainment, retail, consumer products, and life sciences — where his strategic insights and deep understanding of market dynamics earned him respect across sectors.
Clients, ranging from venture capital investors and startups to Fortune 500 corporations, turned to Josh for his exceptional counsel. His ability to navigate intricate transactions made him a trusted advisor to investment banks, boards of directors, and corporate executives, guiding them through mergers, acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, and strategic collaborations with clarity and precision.
Recognized Excellence and Professional Achievement
Throughout his illustrious career, Josh Duclos received numerous accolades highlighting his expertise and leadership. He was named to the Daily Journal’s 2020 “Top 40 Under 40” list, honoring California-based lawyers who demonstrated exceptional achievement before the age of 40.
In 2019, The Deal featured him as one of the “Rising Stars”, recognizing him among the 21 most promising new M&A and Private Equity partners. His work consistently reflected innovation, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Josh’s notable achievements included advising ConvergeOne in its combination with Forum Merger Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), to become publicly listed. The subsequent sale of ConvergeOne to affiliates of CVC Capital Partners earned the 2020 “M&A Deal of the Year (Over $1B)” from The M&A Advisor — a testament to Josh’s skill in handling high-stakes, complex transactions.
In 2022, Josh further contributed to the evolution of corporate governance by participating as a member of the drafting committee for the American Bar Association’s response to the SEC’s request for comments on new rules governing SPACs and shell companies. His insights helped shape national policy discussions in corporate law.
Dedicated Educator and Mentor
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Josh was also a dedicated educator. As an Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, he taught Mergers and Acquisitions, sharing his wealth of knowledge and inspiring future generations of legal professionals. His students admired him not only for his expertise but for his mentorship, humility, and passion for teaching.
A Legacy of Excellence and Integrity
Josh Duclos will be remembered not only for his professional brilliance but also for his integrity, kindness, and generosity of spirit. His colleagues describe him as a trusted friend and mentor, always willing to guide others and contribute to their success.
His passing is an immeasurable loss to the legal field, yet his influence will continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched — from clients and colleagues to students and peers.
As the legal community reflects on Josh’s life and career, his legacy stands as a model of excellence, service, and leadership.
Final Tribute
The passing of Josh Duclos leaves behind a legacy defined by professionalism, compassion, and brilliance. He was more than an attorney — he was a teacher, advisor, and friend who made an enduring mark on both the legal profession and the people around him.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his family, friends, and colleagues find comfort in remembering a life so fully and meaningfully lived.
