 Starr took the position part-time and remained active with his law firm, Kirkland & Ellis, as this was permitted by statute and was also the norm with previous independent counsel investigations.As time went on, however, Starr was increasingly criticized for alleged conflicts of interest stemming from his continuing association with Kirkland & Ellis.Kirkland, like several other major law firms, was representing clients in litigation with the government, including tobacco companies and auto manufacturers.