It is with deep sadness that the legal and academic communities announce the passing of Joshua G. DuClos, a partner in the M&A and private equity practice at Sidley Austin’s Century City office and adjunct professor at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law.
DuClos built a distinguished career in private-equity and merger & acquisition (M&A) law. Colleagues at Sidley noted his role in advising both sponsors and portfolio companies on complex transactions. For instance, he led the firm’s deal team in a $236 million SPAC business combination, illustrating his command of major markets and client expectations.
In his public commentary, DuClos emphasized the importance of understanding emerging mechanisms like SPACs. “Even if SPACs aren’t relevant to you right now, if you’re thinking about any kind of financing options or an exit of some sort, you need to know how they work,” he said.
Why this matters
DuClos was part of the broader trend of legal advisors helping structure private-equity exits, IPO alternatives and global transactions—a pivotal function in today’s financial markets. His work reflects how law firms and counsel shape the lifecycle of deals from buy-outs to public listings, an increasingly sophisticated terrain. His passing underlines the human side of this high-stakes industry.
Beyond the boardroom
In addition to his practice, DuClos served as an adjunct professor, teaching M&A at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law—demonstrating his dedication to knowledge sharing and mentorship. The capacity to blend technical expertise with teaching reinforced his reputation as a well-rounded counsel. Furthermore, his long-time membership as a senior fellow with the humanitarian organisation Humanity in Action since 2003 shows a dimension of civic engagement and global citizenship often unseen in transactional lawyers.
Peers recall his “passionate commitment to sharing his knowledge with others” and his loyalty and professionalism in client service. The esteem in which he was held is reinforced by statements of grief and respect from colleagues within the legal sector.
Looking ahead
While details regarding his passing remain limited in the public domain, DuClos’s impact is already measurable—in the deals he shaped, the students he taught, and the professionals he mentored. His death invites reflection on the roles of lawyers as educators, advisors and citizens.
For clients, students and associates whose lives and careers he influenced, Joshua G. DuClos’s legacy will be one of expertise, mentorship and integrity—reminding us that behind every contract, every transaction, there are human relationships, responsibility, and purpose.
