White & Case LLP > New York, United States > Firm Profile

White & Case LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 1

Housing a ‘great international practice’, White & Case LLP regularly acts for US-based companies in international cartel proceedings, and is geared to handle both criminal proceedings and linked damage claims.  The representation of international clients in matters related to the Sherman Act is another noted specialism of the team, and includes vast experience with summary dispositions, trials and appeals in US courts. Exemplifying this in particular is practice head and trial expert Mark Gidley, who recently represented clients from the fintech, education, financial services and energy sectors. Pharmaceutical companies benefit from the firm’s dedicated pharmaceuticals and healthcare group, which is led by Peter Carney, and offers niche expertise in investigation and antitrust litigation concerning allegations of product hopping in this sector. Adam Acosta is another name to note, focusing on government investigations and antitrust litigation. All mentioned lawyers are based in Washington DC.

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1

The ‘overall excellent‘ antitrust offering at White & Case LLP fields a team of ‘strategic, skilled litigators’ with a strong track record advising large global corporations, leading US universities, and public investment funds in the full range of high-profile antitrust litigation. Under the leadership of J. Mark Gidley, the team has recently secured several class action wins for clients in the pharma and tech industries; Kathryn Jordan Mims is another key name here. Christopher Curran takes point on cross-border disputes and litigated mergers, while New York’s Jack Pace is the key name for competitor-on-competitor disputes and pay-for-delay cases. Peter Carney, who also heads the firm’s global pharmaceuticals and healthcare group, has extensive experience representing both domestic and international corporations in investigations, patent-related antitrust litigation, and reverse-payment claims. The ‘consistently reliable‘ Jaclyn Philips and ‘true rockstar’ Kelly Newman, based in Boston, ably assists with contentious mandates in the pharma, energy, and metallurgy industries. Unless otherwise stated, all mentioned individuals are based in Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 1

‘An exceptional arbitration practice that has all the ingredients necessary for success’, White & Case LLP’s full-service offering is distinguished by its enviable track record in both commercial and investor-state cases, with sources particularly praising its expertise in the latter sphere. Frequently engaged to represent both investors and states, the team has represented parties in over 100 investor-state disputes worldwide and consistently handles cases under ICSID and UNCITRAL rules. Fielding one of the deepest benches in the market, the national group is split between offices on the East and West Coast with Washington DC standing as the seat of global international arbitration head Abby Cohen Smutny, who is hailed for her ‘unsurpassed knowledge and practice in international public law and international investment arbitration’. Cohen Smutny is acting alongside New York-based Ank Santens to represent the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in a $500m telecoms-related dispute under the China-Saudi bilateral investment treaty (BIT). Other go-to senior partners include Washington DC-based Carolyn Lamm, who ‘can find a solution in any situation’, and New York’s Paul Friedland, who is renowned globally for his specialist experience in the international arbitration space. The New York group also draws on Damien Nyer, who heads the Americas international arbitration practice. Hansel Pham is a further key contact in Washington DC, while Brody Greenwald is recommended in Los Angeles. Kristen Young departed the practice in February 2024, and Jonathan Hamilton left in March 2024.

Dispute resolution > International litigation Tier 1

White & Case LLP has a diverse offering across international litigation, combining a strong record in commercial disputes with integrated expertise in key areas such as antitrust, intellectual property, and white-collar crime. The firm has a particularly strong record in enforcement litigation, both on the enforcement and defense side, and counts among its clients a diverse range of sovereign wealth funds, governments, and major names in tech, financial services, and manufacturers, among others. Glenn M. Kurtz  leads the team from New York, offering significant expertise in high-stakes trials across industries and jurisdictions, while Washington DC's Christopher Curran is a vastly experienced name, with a long-standing track record in key matters, particularly relating to extraterritorial application of US state and federal law as evidenced by his recent work for major clients such as for the Republic of the Sudan. Also in DC, Claire DeLelle has standout capabilities in defending foreign financial institutions, including the National Bank of Pakistan, and has seen success on behalf of corporate and sovereign entities alike. In Los Angeles, Rachel Jari Feldman acts for clients in a variety of industries, most notably telecoms, tech, and social media.

Finance > Fintech

Leveraging support from its global network, White & Case LLP often advises fintech clients seeking bank partnerships, media companies on NFTs, and banking entities on lending projects. The multifaceted practice is also highlighted for its strength in cybersecurity issues, data management, regulatory matters, as well as technology transactions. With experience in advising brokers, payment processors, and issuers, former banking regulator Pratin Vallabhaneni oversees the team and is well-established in the blockchain sector. In Chicago, Gary Silverman advises corporate entities on joint ventures, M&A, and private equity investments, Douglas Landy leads the firm’s financial services regulatory practice, and Burr Eckstut is knowledgeable of financial data and often handles NFT matters. A key member of the firm’s white-collar department, Joel Cohen is proficient in tax, insider trading, and money laundering proceedings. All of the individuals that have been mentioned are located in New York, unless stated otherwise.

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 1

White & Case LLP represents clients globally, representing debtors, creditors and distressed investors in all parts of the capital structure including advising on all aspects of corporate and financial restructurings through to chapter 11 proceedings. John K Cunningham has a track record in Latin American cross-border restructurings, and was involved in the GoldenTree Asset Management LP matter alongside Glenn M. Kurtz  and Thomas MacWright, representing GoldenTree in Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority’s Title III case. Thomas Lauria  is the global practice head and has represented clients on large and complex restructurings, alongside bankruptcy matters, while Jessica Lauria serves as lead counsel on bet-the-company engagements, as well as multifaceted chapter 11 cases such as mass tort assignments. Scott Griessman advises clients on a range of financial structuring and insolvency matters, and on the litigation side, Chris Shore represents clients in issues relating to complex business disputes largely arising from debtor/creditor relations. Situated in Los Angeles, Doah Kim is noted for her focus on business reorganization and restructuring matters, whereas Richard Kebrdle has a practice focused on bankruptcy and financial restructuring. Chicago-based Gregory Pesce is a name to watch for his focus on protecting and advancing the financial interests of corporate debtors, as well as secured and unsecured creditors. Lawyers are based between New York and Miami unless otherwise stated.

International trade > CFIUS Tier 1

The  ‘very experienced and commercially savvy team’ at White & Case LLP sits as part of the overarching national security department, which specializes in CFIUS, FDI reviews, Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) mitigation, and Team Telecom matters. Distinguished by its ability to lean into the wider firm’s extensive international network, the group brings its enviable cross-border firepower to bear in high-stakes, cross-border transaction reviews. The Washington DC-based practice is led by Farhad Jalinous, who ‘knows the US FDI regime inside out’. A go-to specialist for complex multi-jurisdictional matters, Jalinous is advising French aerospace and defense company, Safran, in CFIUS and security clearance matters connected to its anticipated $1.8bn acquisition of Raytheon Technologies’ flight controls and actuation business lines. Other CFIUS specialists include Karalyn Mildorf, whose experience cuts across a wide range of industries and investor countries; Keith Schomig, who routinely advises on national security reviews before CFIUS and on FOCI mitigation matters before the US Departments of Defense and Energy; David Jividen, who is sought after for his government background, which includes a stint as Deputy Director for the Department of Defense’s Foreign Investment Review office; and counsel Ryan Brady, who is an ‘exceptionally bright young professional’.

International trade > Trade remedies and trade policy Tier 1

White & Case LLP ‘has a breadth and depth of trade practice that is unmatched’, with a full-service trade remedies and trade policy group, which covers antidumping and countervailing duty investigations (where it represents both petitioners and respondents), through to FTA negotiations and WTO dispute settlement proceedings. A go-to specialist in trade regulation, Gregory Spak handles trade litigation before all national agencies and multinational trade bodies, including the WTO. Spak successfully defended Louis Dreyfus Company Sucos (LDC) in the antidumping duty investigation concerning lemon juice from Brazil; notably, LDC was the only exporter to receive a 0% dumping margin in the investigation. David Bond heads the international trade group globally and recently acted with ‘top-notch’ trade remedies partner, Jay Campbell, to score various victories in antidumping investigations concerning rubber products on behalf of Synthos Kralupy, PJSC Tatneft, and Kumho Petrochemical. The Washington DC-based team additionally draws on the senior experience of Walter Spak, who is noted for trade remedies, dispute resolution under NAFTA and the WTO, and trade policy-related issues. The group further benefits from a strong second line of non-partners, including newly promoted counsel Ron Kendler, who focuses on antidumping cases, countervailing duty proceedings and WTO matters, and senior associate Jessica Lynd.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 2

Leveraging its extensive global network, the antitrust team at White & Case LLP earns high praise from clients for its ability to ‘stay on the ball regarding trends.’ Boasting a formidable team of partners and associates, the practice is adeptly positioned to assist on multijurisdictional mandates involving multiple regulatory approvals and investigations by US, European, and UK antitrust authorities. The firm continues to be active on high-profile mandates, notably advising Albertsons in its $24.6 billion merger with Kroger, a standout representation for practice head George Paul, a ‘brilliant antitrust legal strategist.’ Elsewhere in the team, Heather Greenfield is praised by clients as ‘incredibly skilled’ and was promoted to partner in January 2024, while Rebecca Farrington is a go-to for FTC and DOJ merger investigations. Anna Kertesz is noted for her expertise in investigations and merger-related litigation, serving as a pivotal advisor to the likes of Meta and WhatsApp. All attorneys are based in Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 2

White & Case LLP remains notable for its considerable cross-border focus and international reach, routinely undertaking complex multi-jurisdictional work including consumer products cases, disputes arising out of the financial services, pharma and life sciences spaces, as well as novel SPAC litigation and cryptocurrency disputes. High value international arbitration is a core pillar of the group’s work. New York-based practice head Glenn M. Kurtz has extensive experience as a litigator and also handles high-profile restructuring mandates. Washington DC’s civil litigator Tara Lee is highly sought after by clients in connection with white collar cases and mass tort litigation. In Los Angeles, Bryan Merryman represents major retail clients and is a skilled class action defense attorney.

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 2

Fielding a ‘talented and commercial’ team that ‘listens to client needs and responds appropriately’, White & Case LLP boasts a stellar and diverse client roster that includes majors, state-owned energy players and investment funds, and new market investors. The group has engaged with large-scale greenfield project financings, both domestically and internationally, floating production storage and offloading vessels, LNG regasification terminals, and direct air capture facilities – among others. This impressive asset engagement sits alongside continued excellence regarding multi-billion dollar M&A and private equity transactions, joint ventures and company spin-offs, handling mandates across upstream, midstream and downstream. Team lead Jay Cuclis has a wide corporate practice that is particularly focused on the upstream, and is noted for his strong work regarding CCUS. The ‘phenomenal‘ Mingda Zhao is praised for his ‘pragmatic’ and ‘commercial’ mindset is often instructed by private equity funds and their portfolio companies. Possessing M&A, finance and development expertise, Steven Otillar has predominantly been engaged with offshore mandates, while Clark Wohlferd focuses on large company takeovers, often working with the likes of Saudi Aramco. Emery J. Choi demonstrates prolific activity across the entire oil and gas value chain, handling M&A, joint ventures and strategic partnerships, whereas Charlie Ofner has led the team on mineral and royalty interest deals as well as spin-offs. Miami’s Sean Goldstein heads up the firm’s Americas-facing practice, specializing in project development and energy infrastructure work in Latin America. All practitioners are based in Houston unless otherwise stated. Christopher Richardson departed the firm in March 2024.

Energy > Renewable/alternative power Tier 2

White & Case LLP has a robust track record in a range of matters at the top of the market, including M&A, joint ventures, high-value financing, tax equity arrangements, and project development contract negotiation. The firm’s New York office houses a number of the team’s key partners: Raymond Azar, noted for his expertise across all aspects of a renewable energy project and acts for investors, sponsors and project owners; financing expert Nandan Nelivigi; and January 2024 partner appointment Raffaele Turco, who is particularly knowledgeable of the Latin American market. Project finance head Elena Millerman is also based in New York, while the head of the firm's Americas energy, infrastructure and project finance offering, Sean Goldstein, is based in in Miami and focuses on infrastructure projects across Latin America. Serena Rwejuna in Washington DC is the name to note for regulatory advice on renewable energy projects. Former practice co-head Christopher Richardson left the firm in March 2024, and Chicago-based partner Nadav Klugman, formerly of Mayer Brown, joined the practice in April 2024.

Environment > Environment: transactional Tier 2

White & Case LLP has a strong environmental and climate change practice that continues to assist clients in a range of environmental transactions. The team is also known for its expertise in regulatory compliance, climate change, and sustainability, advising on renewable energy and other projects related to energy transition and decarbonization. In the New York office, co-head Seth Kerschner advises domestic and international clients on the full spectrum of environmental transactions, which include mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, financings, securities offerings, bankruptcies, and real estate transactions. In Boston, fellow co-head Taylor Pullins also heads the firm’s global ESG and sustainability interest group and is known for his expertise in the energy sector, where he advises on ESG and energy transition issues. The team also includes New York’s Hayden Baker, who focuses on mergers and acquisitions, energy and infrastructure projects, and Los Angeles-based Laura Mulry, who advises clients on renewable energy certificates, carbon offsets and carbon credits, including in the context of mergers and acquisitions.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

White & Case LLP has a major presence in equity offerings, including domestic and international transactions; it has a thriving practice in Latin America issuances. It is known for conventional IPOs, SPAC IPOs and de-SPACs, the SPAC area being a significant market for the firm. The capital markets team has an even mix of issuer and underwriter engagements, having boosted its standing amongst issuers in recent years. The firm also has a dedicated public company advisory practice, which has cemented issuer relationships. Joel Rubinstein is a leading name in SPAC IPOs, along with Jonathan Rochwarger and Elliott Smith. Jessica Chen is another key name in the team and John Vetterli  is a leader in international offerings, particularly for Latin American issuers. All named individuals are based in New York. Colin Diamond has left the firm.

Finance > Capital markets: global offerings

White & Case LLP‘s global presence and commitment to Latin America sees it remain highly active on high-profile global mandates. The firm has substantial offices in Sao Paulo and Mexico City that have cemented relationships with key issuers and underwriters, while it is also especially active in Peru and Chile. The New York office frequently advises on investment grade offerings by European issuers. The large new York team features a wealth of partners that frequently advise on global offerings, including Jessica Chen, Rafael Roberti, Daniel Nam , Jonathan Michels and Andrew Weisberg. John Vetterli has a long track record in Latin America offerings and Joel Rubinstein is a key name for cross-border SPAC deals. Colin Diamond has left the firm.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings

White & Case LLP has an excellent record in domestic and international high-yield debt offerings. Enjoying strong connections to managers and underwriters, it has made an additional impact in issuer-side representation; this includes new issuances, special situations and liability management transactions. The capital markets team frequently works closely with debt finance, M&A, private equity and restructuring colleagues, among others, and continues to be active in ESG-driven transactions. Jonathan Michels is a widely praised high-yield debt specialist, noted for deals originating in the US and Latin America. Daniel Nam and ‘truly a great lawyer and person‘ Andrew Weisberg are also key figures, along with Rafael Roberti and counsel Abigail Simon. All are based in New York.

Finance > Commercial lending

The ‘powerhouse lending, banking and leveraged finance team’ at White & Case LLP advises a client roster consisting of banks and private equity houses on the structuring of acquisition finance loans, including take-private deals, while also representing private equity clients as borrowers seeking a range of financing types, including mezzanine financing. Eliza McDougall was named head of the firm’s global debt financing group in September 2023, and continues to advise a range of banks and private lenders, in addition to corporate borrowers on arranging both leveraged and investment-grade credit facilities, while Justin Wagstaff heads both the Americas debt finance and global borrowers finance arms of the practice, assisting private equity sponsors and corporates on cross-border financing deals. Eric Leicht advises a number of lead arrangers on the setting up of leveraged and bridge finance transactions, and is also sought after for advice on restructuring matters, while Binoy Dharia handles a range of cross-border financing transactions, including acquisition and asset-based financing. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.

Finance > Project finance

Providing financing advice on a litany of projects and noted for the scale of its cross-border practice, White & Case LLP continues to be a dominant force in the energy and infrastructure market, with a strong bench of advisors well-geared to act across a range of debt, equity and hybrid structures, as well as P3s. Marquee energy project highlights include ATVM loans for lithium-ion battery resource facilities, stand-alone battery storage financings, and bridge term loans for biorefineries, green hydrogen and ammonia projects, and electric vehicle battery ventures. On the infrastructure side, the firm handles a number of of transport, social and digital-related greenfield and brownfield projects, with the team able to act as counsel on the bidding, financing, and development side of ventures including JFK International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and São Paulo’s metro system. Leading these substantial infrastructure mandates and the practice as a whole is Dolly Mirchandani, one of the most pre-eminent infrastructure lawyers in the market and who combines long-standing P3 knowledge alongside the ability to advise on first-of-its-kind private investment and finance structures across a range of traditional and novel infrastructure projects. Working closely with Mirchandani is Evelyn Balassiano who provides counsel to an impressive roster of infrastructure find, commercial banks and institutional lenders. Elena Millerman leads the firm’s global project development and finance offering and is chiefly recognized for her extensive debt and equity financing knowledge, active on both conventional and renewable energy assets. In Miami, the head of the firm’s Americas energy, infrastructure, project and asset finance practice Sean Goldstein focuses on energy and infrastructure projects in Latin America. Nandan Nelivigi has overseen mezzanine credit facilities, senior construction and term credit facilities, bridge loans, and green financings relating to a plethora of asset types. Jeffrey Davis joined the practice in March 2023 and brings extensive tax experience from his tenure at Mayer Brown, while infrastructure investment expert Nadav Klugman, also formerly at Mayer Brown, joined the team in April 2024. Former practice co-head Christopher Richardson left the practice in March 2024. All listed members of the team are based in New York unless otherwise mentioned.

Finance > Structured finance: derivatives and structured products Tier 2

White & Case LLP offers broad expertise in derivatives and structured products, its transactional practice assisting parties of all types, including national and multinational investment banks, regional banks and major corporations, across the spectrum of asset classes. The firm is also accustomed to regulatory work, including work relating to Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Act. The ‘dedicated’ Ian Cuillerier is experienced in matters relating to all manner of derivatives including credit default swaps, total return swaps and forward delivery agreements. Edward So is noted for his work on OTC and regulated markets work relating to ESF and digital asset derivatives as well as equity, foreign exchange and futures derivatives. All lawyers mentioned are in New York. Rhys Bortignon left the firm in April 2024.

Finance > Structured finance: securitization Tier 2

The team at White & Case LLP offers experience in traditional and esoteric asset-backed securitizations, especially whole business and rental car securitizations, as well as CLO transactions. The firm advises on both the regulatory and transactional side of its clients’ matters at the domestic and international level. Gary Kashar heads the practice, whilst David Thatch handles esoteric securitizations, including whole business securitizations, for the firm’s corporate and investment banking clients. Jim Fogarty, who is also adept at whole business securitizations, is noted for experience in relation to CLO issuances and rental car securitizations. Elizabeth Devine is well-versed in asset-backed financings across a swathe of asset classes, including automotive and whole business, for underwriters and issuers. All lawyers practice in New York.

International trade > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions Tier 2

Trade lawyers at White & Case LLP are praised by clients as ‘instrumental in providing favorable solutions to import roadblocks’. Certainly the firm maintains an active customs and import compliance practice, which is keeping increasingly busy advising on supply chains and forced labor-related issues, alongside traditional customs areas such as duty regimes and tariff mitigation strategies. Trade litigator Jay Campbell is a key contact for customs work and recently teamed up with Walter Spak to represent numerous manufacturing clients in ongoing Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) investigations. International trade head David Bond and senior associate Jessica Lynd also handle customs matters. The team’s export controls and economic sanctions offering—co-led by Nicole Erb and Richard Burke—stands out for its expertise across a wide range of US and non-US sanctions and export control regimes, while it is also is well-placed to advise on Russia countermeasures. Among its recent highlights in the sanctions space, Cristina Brayton-Lewis paired up with regulatory litigator Claire DeLelle to successfully represent a cryptocurrency exchange in voluntary self-disclosure proceedings before OFAC regarding apparent violations of the Iran sanctions. Named attorneys are based in Washington DC.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Corporate governance Tier 2

Praised for its ability to package its ‘strong command of corporate governance laws and regulations, and emerging trends in the area, into actionable advice’, the team at White & Case LLP advises clients on a broad array of corporate governance issues and ongoing SEC reporting obligations. Practice head Maia Gez, lauded as ‘absolutely brilliant and ultra responsive’, is sought after by public companies for her expertise in corporate governance and securities regulation matters. Scott Levi boasts a successful track record winning securities regulatory rulings and no action requests with the SEC with regard to shareholder proposals and earns further praise for his ‘responsiveness and attentiveness’. Era Anagnosti has left the firm. Practitioners mentioned are based in New York.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 2

White & Case LLP advises a strong client roster that includes multinational corporations, financial institutions, investment funds, individuals, governments, and sovereign wealth funds. Practice head Sang Ji has considerable experience handling the tax aspects of M&A, securities offerings, financial products, and investment funds. He is particularly well known for advising on stock and asset acquisitions, including tax-free reorganizations. David Dreier focuses on M&A, restructuring, bank financing, and securitization transactions. Steven Gee offers expertise in M&A and securitization transactions as well as in relation to tax issues concerning intellectual property. Having joined the firm from Mayer Brown LLP in February 2023, Jeffrey Davis in Washington DC brings experience in a wide range of US federal income tax matters. He has particular strength in the renewables space, advising on tax equity financings, portfolio acquisitions, back leverage financings, and tax credits, among other matters. Chad McCormick in Houston advises clients, especially in the oil and gas sector, on tax-efficient structures concerning both domestic and cross-border mergers, acquisitions, and separations as well as on the tax aspects of capital markets transactions and S-corp financings. Scott Fryman specializes in SPAC IPOs, financings, and business combinations. All lawyers mentioned are in New York unless otherwise mentioned.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

The white-collar team at White & Case LLP is headed by Joel Cohen, a highly experienced trial lawyer who routinely advises on matters relating to insider trading, money laundering, and securities litigation. Cohen is based in New York and joined the firm from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP in February 2023.  Also practicing from the New York office, Tami Stark has a broad range of experience advising both individuals and companies on a variety of allegations, including accounting fraud, SPACs, market manipulation, and cybersecurity breaches. Located in Washington DC, Darryl Lew is skilled at handling internal and governmental investigations with a cross-border element. The firm also has a strong team in its Miami office, which includes Michael Garcia and Maria Beguiristain. Virginia Romano left the New York office in January 2023 and Kevin Bolan departed the Boston office in June 2023.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 3

White & Case LLP regularly acts on complex structured transactions that involve both substantial conventional power and renewable asset portfolios, particularly gas fired and nuclear projects which remain a key theme of the group’s pipeline of work. With a diverse spread of clients, the team is active on behalf of PE outfits, particularly regarding investment in early stage outfits through to the eventual sale and reinjection of capital back into the energy space. Michael Shenberg, head of US power and utilities and operating out of New York, is a key figure in some of the practice’s most prominent client relationships, such as Caline Corporation, EnCap Investments, and JERA Americas. Fellow New York practitioner Ipek Candan Snyder carries out considerable foreign investment work, often instructed by Asian asset managers and Middle Eastern clean energy developers on traditional power, battery storage and renewable deals. Houston’s Morgan Hollins provides corporate governance advice alongside her deep expertise in M&A, private equity and joint ventures, while Mingda Zhao, also in Houston, has predominantly worked with NRG Energy, Inc over the past twelve months on their energy and digital infrastructure acquisitions. Jeff Davies lends tax equity expertise from Washington DC, while Hayden Baker joined in New York from Troutman Pepper in 2023 and brings further M&A and financing capabilities. Arthur Scavone has retired.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings

White & Case LLP stands out for its presence in both domestic and cross-border offerings, having a substantial flow of deals originating in Latin America and Europe. Although the capital markets team is largely centred in New York, it has further expertise in Houston, Los Angeles and Chicago, among other cities in the US and worldwide. It frequently handles marquee transactions, including those valued in excess of $1bn. The team has also impressed in the sustainability-linked bonds field. Gary Kashar heads the Americas capital markets group, which includes senior figure Daniel Nam , who has extensive experience in investment grade and high-yield debt, and is at the forefront of sustainability-linked bonds. Andrew Weisberg and Rafael Roberti are also key names, along with counsel Abigail Simon. All named individuals are based in New York.

Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 3

White & Case LLP guides private equity firms and private companies through exits via sales, IPOs, or dual-track processes, and assists public companies with domestic and international M&A. The firm continues to be active in cross-border mandates, notably representing Newmont Corporation in its $19.3 billion acquisition of Newcrest Mining Limited, and Aramco in its $2.65 billion acquisition of Valvoline Global Products. The global employment, compensation and benefits practice is led by Henrik Patel, a seasoned advisor to public and private entities, boards, and executives on M&A, private equity transactions, and leveraged buyouts. Tal Marnin focuses on management compensation for private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies, alongside executive-level issues. Victoria Rosamond offers expertise in cross-border transactions, ERISA fiduciary compliance, and the tax and securities laws related to benefits. All mentioned attorneys operate from the New York office.

M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+) Tier 3

Demonstrating extensive expertise across the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and tech sectors, the White & Case LLP team specializes in handling multi-jurisdictional M&A, joint ventures, and SPAC transactions on behalf of domestic and global clients. The New York-based outfit is co-headed by John Reiss and Michael Deyong, with the former being an expert in complex corporate governance matters, while the latter focuses on cross-border strategic acquisitions. Chang-Do Gong regularly acts on behalf of cyber security and tech companies, Kimberly Petillo-Décossard concentrates on financings and compliance matters, and Gregory Pryor is noted for his ability to handle deals in the energy and petrochemical sectors. Thomas Christopher routinely assists special committees and financial sponsors, and Luke Laumann, who handles a broad range of public and private M&A, is also noted as key. Private equity expert Taurie Zeitzer joined the team in January 2024 from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, while M&A and activism defense specialist Keith Hallam , formerly of Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, joined in March 2024.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Private equity buyouts: large deals ($500m+) Tier 3

White & Case LLP‘s multidisciplinary private equity team handles a steady stream of multibillion-dollar transactions across a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare, technology, and energy, though it is especially well-regarded for its expertise in the infrastructure space, where it advises major investors and asset managers on cross-border investment activities, take-private acquisitions, auctions, and leveraged buyouts. Experienced practitioner Oliver Brahmst leads the firm’s relationship with blue-chip clients such as Brookfield and CVC and co-heads the practice with John Reiss, who is noted for his M&A and corporate governance expertise. Luke Laumann is a particular key contact for private equity buyouts in the infrastructure space, while Chicago lawyer Gary Silverman handles deals in the tech and retail sectors, among others. The team expanded its ranks with the arrival from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP of Taurie Zeitzer, who is noted for her experience with leveraged buyouts and take-private acquisitions, in January 2024. All lawyers are New York-based unless otherwise stated.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 3

Leveraging the firm’s international presence, the global technology practice at White & Case LLP is strategically positioned to undertake a variety of domestic and cross-border transactions. The department routinely works with tech investors, private equity sponsors, and various corporations in the energy and semiconductor spaces. Expert Arlene Arin Hahn spearheads the team from New York and assists high-profile clients with disruptive tech and M&A transactions. Also in New York, Erin Hanson counsels the likes of Meta on transformative partnerships and non-traditional tech collaborations involving generative AI, while Burr Eckstut handles fintech matters relating to digital assets and financial market data. Andres Liivak is a further New York contact and focuses on emerging advanced health technologies, while Linda Sim concentrates on tech projects involving data, cloud-based services, and digital media from Los Angeles. Yixin Gong is reputed for her know-how in tech and IP work and is based in Silicon Valley. The practice has been strengthened by the arrival of New York-based Keith Hallam, who joined from Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP in March 2024, and who brings expertise in the digital aspects of corporate transactions.

Transport > Aviation and air travel: finance Tier 3

With longstanding experience in aircraft finance and aviation industry work, White & Case LLP‘s full-service team acts for major airlines, national and regional airlines, foreign flag carriers, charter airlines, and cargo carriers. The team’s representative expertise ranges from aircraft finance, long-term maintenance agreements, joint ventures and M&A, to regulatory issues, restructuring, capital markets, structured finance, and credit card processing arrangements. In New York, asset finance specialist Todd Wolynski has notable aviation industry experience, his broad expertise covering aircraft and helicopter finance, equipment leasing, and other cross-border corporate and finance transactions. Wolynski also has extensive experience in aviation sector-related M&A, restructurings and bankruptcies. Over in Miami, Anna Andreeva regularly advises on asset finance and equipment leasing transactions, while Brian Schmelkin‘s practice encompasses high-stakes deals for aircraft leasing companies, airlines and financial institutions.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 4

White & Case LLP has litigators and regulatory lawyers across the US, but its New York office is the hub of its securities litigation capability. Led by global commercial litigation chair Glenn Kurtz, who is a highly regarded trial lawyer, the practice is active in key areas of the market including SPAC-related cases, regulatory enforcement actions, and securities fraud class actions. Kurtz played a lead role in the defense of Centene Corporation executives in a notable derivative suit. Key partner Kim Havlin handed a notable SPAC case for executives of Netfin Acquisition Corp., which faced allegations of misrepresentations in its business combination with Triterras Fintech Pte. Ltd. She settled the case on favourable terms for the defendant.

Energy > Energy litigation: oil and gas Tier 4

White & Case LLP‘s litigation team is led by New York’s Glenn M. Kurtz and advises a range of oil and gas industry players on complex litigation in both federal and state courts. As of January 2023, the team includes Houston’s Andrew Zeve, Sean Gorman, and Christopher Dodson, all noted for their expertise in handling high-value oil and gas-related litigation. From Washington DC, Claire DeLelle continues to litigate for a number of high-profile corporate and sovereign clients.

Finance > Financial services regulation Tier 4

White & Case LLP‘s financial services team advises clients on a wide range of regulatory challenges and is the practice of choice for a number of foreign banks seeking to do business in the US. In addition to tackling regulatory challenges tied to day-to-day operations, including Volcker Rule compliance, the firm also advises on innovative blockchain and digital asset systems and transactions. New York’s Douglas Landy spearheads the firm’s efforts on this front, with his practice covering capital requirements and bank insolvency regulations, rules governing stablecoins and M&A-related regulatory matters.

Healthcare > Life sciences Tier 5

Marshalling its ‘strong experience’ in the life sciences sector, White & Case LLP handles large transactions and associated antitrust matters, with additional experience in IP litigation, covering Hatch-Waxman and BPCIA disputes. Peter Carney heads the group, specializing in both civil and criminal antitrust defense, cartel investigations in the US and a range of other countries, and negotiating patent settlement agreements.

Real estate Tier 5

The team at White & Case LLP regularly handles acquisitions, sales, and development together with financings and workouts for a wide collection of domestic and global owners and developers. Team leader Eugene Leone is regularly approached by private equity firms and entrepreneurs for her transaction and structuring expertise which encompasses the likes of joint ventures and leasing; he divides his time between the Chicago and New York offices. In New York, Steven Lutt provides assistance on M&A and distressed debt transactions spanning industrial to hospitality, residential to mixed-use properties. Transactional experts Michael J. McKeever, David J. Pezza and Aaron Potter, noted for his energy and condominium construction and development experience, are also highly active members located in the Chicago office.

Tax > US taxes: contentious Tier 5

White & Case LLP caters to high net worth individuals and prominent corporations facing complex tax disputes, including those involving multiple jurisdictions. The group offers particular expertise in transfer pricing matters, with further strengths in advising on audits. The department is co-led from Washington DC by Kim Marie Boylan, who has significant experience in international tax matters, and transfer pricing expert Brian Gleicher, whose practice additionally covers issues of double taxation, residency, and permanent establishment questions. Sean Lyons, also of Washington DC, is highly active in the practice and represents clients in proceedings at all levels.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (International Trade Commission)

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage)

Intellectual property > Trade secrets (litigation and non-contentious matters)

Ghana > Foreign firms Tier 1

White & Case LLP is active in a range of complex projects, transactions and disputes in Ghana. Led by senior partner Mukund Dhar, the team has a wealth of experience in advising clients in the power, oil and gas, infrastructure, mining and metals, water and wastewater treatment sectors. The group is also strong in advising transport, pharmaceutical and real estate sector companies. Dhar heads up the Africa interest group in the firm, and is recognised for his expertise in project development and finance matters. Joshua Siaw acts for corporates, governments, banks and other financial institutions in cross-border project development and finance transactions in Africa. Christopher Czarnocki is a key name for handling debt and equity finance transactions.

Latin America: International firms > Capital markets Tier 1

White & Case LLP has performed admirably in spite of a difficult climate for capital markets issuances, with deal flow from Brazil – the firm’s primary market – remaining strong with a series of bond restructuring engagements. It has a large team of capital markets specialists in São Paulo, along with a significant number of New York partners and associates that have a particular focus on Brazil. Mexico, the Andean region and Argentina are also core markets for the team; 2022 partner-hires Eduardo Flores Herrera and Narciso Campos in Mexico City are both capital markets focused. The firm has also benefitted from its strength in energy and infrastructure, areas where capital markets activity has remained relatively buoyant, and it has leveraged its prominence in liability management to significant effect. The practice group continues to benefit from its exceptional issuer client base that provides a steady pipeline of engagements, while it also maintains strong links to bulge-bracket investment banks and funds – including distressed debt funds – that are increasingly prominent in this space. Further growth in the team has come through the promotion of São Paulo’s Abraham Paul and Miami-based Karen Katri to the partnership. Donald Baker remains the premier international capital markets lawyer in São Paulo, while John Vetterli is global head of capital markets and has a major focus on the Brazil market. São Paulo’s John Guzman is increasingly prominent in Brazil capital markets offerings, and Bibiana Jaimes and the highly-rated Rafael Roberti are also key team members. Sao Paulo associate Beatriz Barros is active team member on many large deals. Named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

Latin America: International firms > Corporate and M&A Tier 1

White & Case LLP has demonstrated more commitment to Latin America than almost any other international firm in the market. It has large Latin America-focused teams in its Sao Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Miami and Houston offices. It is in Houston where it houses the core of its Latin America M&A team with Rodrigo Dominguez and William Parish having outstanding reputations in Latin America M&A; both have been instrumental in the firm’s recent record of advising on a steady pipeline of headline strategic and private equity transactions. The two are closely linked to oil and gas, LNG, renewables, mining and industrial real estate deals, with Brazil, Mexico and Chile featuring uppermost. Both advised EIG on its joint acquisition with Fluxys of an 80% equity stake in GNL Quintero, the largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification terminal in Chile, from Enagas Chile and affiliates of OMERS Infrastructure. Technology is another growth area for the team, notably with a series of fintech deals. The Latin America M&A team has also assembled an enviable client list of Latin American corporates, family groups, multinationals and private equity houses. Sao Paulo’s Donald Baker is widely regarded as the best connected international lawyer in Brazil. Emilio Grandío was elected to the partnership in 2022 and is an emerging talent - particularly in private equity transactions. Luisa Muskus is an impressive associate. All named individuals are based in Houston, unless stated otherwise.

Latin America: International firms > Banking and finance

White & Case LLP is an indisputable leader in Latin America banking and finance. It leads the market in project finance, has a major presence in aviation finance and is active in acquisition finance in the energy and infrastructure fields. It is also at the forefront of debt restructurings and debtor-in-possession (DIP) financings in the region and is further noted for loans to financial institutions in Latin American jurisdictions. Green and sustainability-linked loans are another forte; it represented Petrobras on its debut $1.25bn sustainability-linked loan. The large banking and finance group operates from multiple offices, including Miami, New York, Washington DC, São Paulo and Mexico City. Carlos Viana  is head of the Latin America group and an eminent figure in project finance - although he is active in a range of financings, including syndicated loans. São Paulo executive partner John Anderson is a prominent name in Brazil, especially in the energy sector. New York’s Sabrena Silver has wide-ranging experience in Latin America financings; and Anna Andreeva has made an impression in asset finance, corporate loans and project finance. New York partner Bibiana Jaimes is well regarded for capital markets’ and debt financings. Named individuals are based in Miami unless stated otherwise.

Latin America: International firms > Projects and energy

White & Case LLP stands out not only for its commitment to Latin America (spanning multiple offices), but also its breadth of clients across the sponsor, DFI, commercial bank and fund segments. Unusually, the core of the team is based in Miami, where Carlos Viana leads the Latin America group. Also in Miami, bilingual partner and regional section head Sean Goldstein is pivotal to the firm’s relationship with IDB Invest, leading multiple deals across the region. The team has a longstanding presence in energy projects and is building its standing in infrastructure projects. It advised BNDES and the commercial banks on the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the São Paulo Metro system’s Line 6-Orange. It continues to advise on a raft of projects in Chile, while Colombia and Brazil have also become key markets. Smaller jurisdictions such as Paraguay and Ecuador also feature strongly for the team. New York partner Thomas Pate and Washington DC’s Martin Menski have had key roles in developing the firm’s infrastructure practice, while remaining active in energy. John Anderson is a major figure in São Paulo; and New York associate, Raffaele Turco, demonstrates ‘impressive understanding’ and is highly rated by clients. Former partner Jeannine Acevedo  moved in house at Atlas Renewable Energy in February 2023, while former practice co-head Christopher Richardson left the team in March 2024.  

India > Foreign firms

With notable strength in capital markets, corporate and M&A, and disputes, the India practice at White & Case LLP acts for an impressive roster of high-profile international clients seeking to invest in India, as well as advising Indian clients on their investments abroad. Drawing on the firm’s large global network, the practice regularly handles cross-border India-related matters for multinational corporations and banks. London-based practice head Dipen Sabharwal KC is highly regarded for his international arbitration expertise and is triple-qualified in India, New York, and England and Wales. Nandan Nelivigi, in New York, is the key name for energy, projects, and infrastructure financing; Aloke Ray KC and Aditya Singh take point on large international arbitrations from London and Singapore, respectively. Singapore-based lawyer Sayak Maity left the firm in March 2024.

Latin America: International firms > International arbitration

Highlighted for its ‘very deep bench and industry knowledge’ White & Case LLP has a very sizeable Latin America-focused international arbitration team (totalling some 100 professionals) that handes an impressive mix of commercial, construction and investment arbitration engagements. The team is also noted for its expertise in enforcement proceedings, while its catalogue of recent cases includes appointments in the energy, resources, financial services, technology and transportation sectors. Indeed, the energy sector – particularly renewables – has been a notably active area for the practice, while in sovereign matters, it has acted for clients in a series of  investment arbitrations against Colombia, Guatemala, Ecuador, and Peru (among other jurisdictions). The team maintains members across it Washington DC, New York, Miami, Houston Mexico City, London and Madrid offices. Rafael Llano Oddone leads the international arbitration group in Mexico City, while Ecuadorian Francisco Jijón has impressed in a series of ICSID and UNCITRAL arbitrations involving Latin American parties. Houston and Miami-based Silvia Marchili is building a name for herself in investor-state arbitrations; and New York’s Jorge Mattamouros has a focus on Portuguese-speaking markets, especially Brazil’s oil and gas sector. Miami’s Estefanía San Juan was elected to the partnership in January 2023, with Ignacio Madalena becoming a local partner in Madrid the same month. Michelle Grando impresses at counsel level, as does Mexico City’s Marièle Coulet-Diaz. All named individuals are based in Washington DC unless stated otherwise. Since publication, former practice co-head Jonathan Hamilton has left the firm – effective as of March 2024 – as has Alejandro Martínez de Hoz, as of April 2024.

Angola > Foreign firms

With a ‘client-oriented approach’, White & Case LLP advises both domestic and foreign companies in Angola, especially in the oil and gas, telecoms, and infrastructure sectors. Mukund Dhar leads the firm’s Africa practice group from London, and guides clients through joint ventures, acquisitions, project development, financings, and intricate commercial contracts. Based in New York, Jorge Mattamouros handles cross-border disputes, with a focus on Lusophone countries.

Mozambique > Foreign law firms

White & Case LLP advises global corporations, financial organisations, and governmental bodies on various contentious and non-contentious matters. The firm’s Africa division is managed by Mukund Dhar in London, who assists clients in the energy, natural resources, infrastructure, and telecoms sectors, with projects, joint ventures, acquisitions, and commercial agreements. London-based Jason Kerr brings expertise in international finance to the team, advising a range of clients including commercial banks, export credit agencies, project sponsors, and multilateral lending institutions.

South Korea > Corporate and M&A: foreign firms

White & Case LLP (Foreign Legal Consultant Office) ‘s team has ‘strength and depth’ in the Korean corporate and private equity market, particularly in handling commercial inbound and outbound transactions for Korean conglomerates. The Seoul office is led by Dongho Lee, who handles a broad range of complex cross-border joint ventures, acquisitions and investments, particularly in the power and technology sectors. Specialising in mergers and private equity work, Younghee Chung works closely with New York partners Chang-Do Gong  and Robert Chung , while senior associate Kyle Oh works on extremely high-value corporate transactions.