David Hryck has built a career defined by legal excellence, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to philanthropy. Recognized as one of the most accomplished attorneys in international business law, he has become a trusted advisor to clients whose influence extends across industries and continents. His ability to combine precise legal knowledge with cultural understanding has made him a figure of authority not only in boardrooms but also in philanthropic circles, where he devotes significant time and leadership.
As a senior partner at Holland and Knight LLP, one of the leading international law firms, Hryck provides counsel on some of the most complex and high-stakes matters in global business. His work includes advising on tax law, cross-border investments, licensing agreements, wealth preservation, and the structuring of intricate deals. He is known for offering more than legal solutions. His counsel often extends to strategic and business guidance that helps his clients achieve success while protecting their long-term interests. The caliber of those he represents speaks to his reputation, with clients that include celebrities, entertainers, sports legends, designers, international families, family offices, and royalty.
Before joining Holland and Knight, Hryck developed his career at other respected law firms, gaining valuable experience in handling cross-jurisdictional transactions and representing high-profile clients. His role as a celebrity lawyer also expanded his professional reach, allowing him to represent public figures who required both discretion and strategic guidance. This background gave him insight into the diverse needs of clients who operate in the public eye and those who manage vast private interests.
In addition to his work as an attorney, Hryck is a sought-after speaker and commentator. He has been invited to share his knowledge at international conferences and industry gatherings, where he addresses issues such as global tax developments, wealth management, and the intersection of law and philanthropy. These appearances reinforce his role as both practitioner and thought leader, contributing to important conversations about the future of business law in an increasingly interconnected world.
Hryck’s influence extends beyond the legal profession into philanthropy, where he has dedicated significant time and leadership. He serves on the boards of several major charitable organizations, including the Amy Winehouse Foundation, The Lifetime Humanitarian Organization founded by Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Yugoslavia, Marc Anthony’s Maestro Cares Foundation, Playing for Change, founded by Whitney Kroenke, and Yue Sai Kan’s China Beauty Charity Fund. In 2020, he was named Co-Chair of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, established by world-renowned pianist Lang Lang. His involvement with these organizations demonstrates his belief that professional success must be matched by social responsibility.
His commitment to charitable causes has been longstanding. For over a decade, Hryck served as Chairman of Petra Nemcova’s Happy Hearts Fund, leading initiatives to rebuild schools and support children affected by natural disasters. For this work, he was honored with the foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He is also a World Fellow of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for Excellence Fund, founded by HRH Prince Philip. These roles show how he has consistently used his expertise and leadership to benefit communities in need.
In 2020, Hryck received one of the nation’s highest honors, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. The award is given to individuals who embody the ideals of the United States through their work and service. Previous recipients include U.S. presidents, Nobel Prize winners, and iconic figures such as Rosa Parks and Muhammad Ali. This recognition placed him among a select group of leaders whose contributions span both professional excellence and humanitarian service.
Media coverage has reflected the range of Hryck’s achievements. His career and philanthropic efforts have been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times, publications that highlight both his legal skill and his impact beyond the profession. Page Six has covered his accomplishments and community involvement, while New York Lifestyles Magazine has provided an in-depth look at his career and charitable activities. He is often seen supporting causes at high-profile galas and fundraising events, including those for the Maestro Cares Foundation and the Mariano Rivera Foundation, as well as attending royal gatherings and cultural celebrations. His presence at such events demonstrates his active commitment to the causes he supports rather than simply lending his name.
The legacy Hryck is creating is defined not only by the deals he structures or the clients he represents but also by the communities he uplifts. His career illustrates that law is not only a matter of contracts and regulations but also a platform for cultural exchange, strategic leadership, and social responsibility. Clients value him for his skill and judgment, but equally for his ability to view their interests in a global and human context.
From representing celebrities and royalty to guiding multinational businesses and supporting charitable initiatives, David Hryck embodies the qualities of a lawyer who sees beyond the courtroom and the conference table. He has proven that counsel can mean more than legal advice. It can mean partnership, trust, and an unwavering dedication to making a difference. His story shows how one individual can shape both professional landscapes and humanitarian efforts, leaving a legacy that blends law with leadership and responsibility.
