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

White & Case LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 1

White & Case LLP‘s cartel team regularly represents corporates and individuals in high-profile civil and criminal cartel proceedings, including bet-the-company litigation for major pharmacy industry players. Clients from a range of jurisdictions and industries, including life sciences, financial services, and auto parts, seek the firm out for its cartel defense capabilities as well as its expertise in multijurisdictional litigation and investigations. The firm is a litigation powerhouse with a remarkably strong track record in disposing civil and criminal claims in court or on appeal, both in the US and in global cartel cases. The team, based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated, is headed by significantly experienced cartel litigator Mark Gidley. He is supported by Peter Carney, whose practice focuses on healthcare and pharma-related antitrust litigation, as well as Christopher Curran, whose litigation and defense of an amnesty agreement was the first of its kind. Trial attorney J. Frank Hogue is regularly involved in enforcement proceedings and class action defense. Adam Acosta  is a litigator focusing on complex antitrust litigation and government investigations, while New York-based Robert Milne and Raj Gandesha also receive praise for their antitrust expertise.

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1

White & Case LLP regularly represents clients in high-stakes litigation, particularly class actions concerning consumer protection claims and antitrust conspiracy allegations. The team is well versed in pharmaceutical antitrust matters with a client roster including Pfizer and Samsung Bioepis, whilst continuing to grow its fintech and technology antitrust capabilities. Mark Gidley chairs the practice from Washington DC, offering significant experience in trying criminal and civil antitrust cases, while Christopher Curran often handles precedent setting matters. New York-based Jack Pace often acts as lead counsel for pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers as well as leading fintech companies, recently acting as lead drafter in the briefing behind victories for Apex Clearing Corporation, obtaining the dismissal of class action antitrust complaints. Kathryn Jordan Mims’ practice in DC focuses on class actions, merger enforcement actions and government enforcement actions. Head of the global pharmaceuticals and healthcare group, Peter Carney regularly represents pharmaceutical clients in litigation involving patent settlement agreements, product hopping and switching strategies in federal court and before the FTC. Situated in New York, Martin Toto is recognized as a leading attorney with experience in defending clients in price fixing jury trials while Kristen O’Shaughnessy defends global companies in class action and commercial litigation, with a particular expertise in the pharmaceutical industry.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 1

Widely regarded as a go-to practice for investor-state arbitration, White & Case LLP leverages its global network and premier public international law expertise to excel in representing both investors and nation states in complex cases. The team, which also shines in commercial arbitration, is well versed in all major institutional rules, as well as regional and ad hoc cases. Spread between five US offices, the sizeable group additionally draws on arbitration specialists in the firm’s international offices–including in key arbitration centers such as London, Paris, Geneva and Singapore–to bring to bear comprehensive jurisdictional and sectoral coverage. Washington DC-based global department head Abby Cohen Smutny frequently secures high-profile mandates from both respondents and claimants in investor-state arbitrations. Most recently, Cohen Smutny was part of the cross-office team that represented Gabriel Resources in an ICSID arbitration against Romania concerning the de facto expropriation of Gabriel’s rights in the Roşia Montană gold mining project. Washington DC-based Carolyn Lamm heads the international arbitration practice for the Americas and teamed up with Hansel Pham and Kristen Young, both also in DC, to represent the Republic of Uzbekistan in an ICSID arbitration brought under the Turkey-Uzbekistan BIT. In New York, pre-eminent specialist Paul Friedland is sought after for his first-class commercial and investor-state arbitration expertise. Ank Santens, who heads the America’s disputes section, is also noted in New York. The firm additionally fields a talented band of next-generation arbitration partners, including Damien Nyer and Brody Greenwald. Jonathan Hamilton departed the practice in March 2024.

Dispute resolution > International litigation Tier 1

White & Case LLP routinely counsels foreign parties on the application of international laws in US courts, as well as changing international regulatory landscapes, leveraging expertise across antitrust, international arbitration, IP and white-collar groups. The practice counts foreign sovereigns, state-owned entities, central banks and financial services companies among its clients, and is recognized for its enforcement litigation capacity, defending against and enforcing award judgements in both US and international courts. Glenn Kurtz , based in New York, chairs the global commercial litigation practice, and has a track record of high-stakes litigation, including international mass tort claims and high-profile sexual abuse cases. Christopher Curran is also a key name, based in Washington DC, advising foreign sovereigns and corporations facing litigation in US courts, particularly regarding the extraterritorial application of US law and the protection of foreign sovereign immunity. Claire DeLelle and Tara Lee are also key names based in DC- DeLelle focuses her practice on representing foreign financial institutions in US courts, while Lee is noted for her work on ESG-related matters.

Finance > Fintech

White & Case LLP has an experienced fintech team which represents a mix of financial institutions, corporations and technology companies. This includes support to banks and payments companies on transactional and licensing matters, as well as advising fintechs on bank charters and partnerships. The corporate finance side advises on M&A, SPAC mergers, and other forms of equity and debt listings. Another core focus is digital assets and cryptocurrency, both in terms of new ventures such as major corporates moving into NFTs, but also insolvency work. Washington DC-based practice head Prat Vallabhaneni and his team are considered ‘unique by their expertise on the subject (particularly in themes related to crypto/DLT), and have a hands-on and practical approach that are key to clients‘. Financial services regulatory head Douglas Landy and fintech transactions partner Burr Eckstut (both New York) are also key team members.

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 1

With significant experience in complex and high-value assignments, Thomas Lauria, operating from New York and Miami, heads White & Case LLP’s financial restructuring and insolvency group, which boasts considerable depth of expertise, advises debtors, creditors, and distressed investors in relation to all aspects of corporate and financial restructurings, including in the automotive, transportation, real estate, oil and gas, sovereign debt, and retail sectors. Notably, David Turetsky and Gregory Pesce, in New York and Chicago respectively, have recently led a team representing the official committee of unsecured creditors in connection with the reorganization of Celsius Network, a cryptocurrency-based finance platform that filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy following the collapse of the cryptocurrency market. New York- and Miami-based John Cunningham specializes in the restructuring of Latin American multinationals, and has represented a wide range of clients, including debtors, creditors’ committees, bondholders, and strategic investors, in complex workout arrangements throughout the US, Latin America, and Europe. Scott Greissman in New York represents banks, senior lenders, unsecured creditors, hedge funds, and companies in large out-of-court workouts, distressed acquisitions, and Chapter 11 proceedings, while Jessica Lauria stands out for her experience in mass tort cases. Chris Shore plays an important role in the team as a bankruptcy litigator. Lauria and Shore are also both based in New York. Mark Franke has left the firm.

International Trade > CFIUS Tier 1

‘One of the clear market leaders in CFIUS’, White & Case LLP’s foreign direct investment reviews and national security practice forms a key part of the firm’s wider international trade offering. Covering the full range of industries, clients and transaction structures, the team’s ability to draw on lawyers with broad in-house government experience ensures it ‘brings a deeper understanding of the background underlying the regulations’. High-profile department head Farhad Jalinous is widely recognized for his ‘deep knowledge of the CFIUS process and stakeholders’; he recently advised UK-based Avast on CFIUS issues related to its approximately $8bn merger with US-based NortonLifeLock. Karalyn Mildorf is an up-and-coming CFIUS specialist with extensive experience in national security reviews before CFIUS as well as foreign ownership, control or influence (FOCI) mitigation matters. The Washington DC-based group also includes Keith Schomig, who specializes in advising on the CFIUS aspects of private-equity investments and large-scale M&A, and counsel Ryan Brady, who formerly served as Deputy General Counsel at the Department of the Treasury. In October 2022, the team was boosted by the arrival of Senior National Security Advisor David Jividen, who joined from the Department of Defense’s Foreign Investment Review office.

International Trade > Trade remedies and trade policy Tier 1

Among White & Case LLP’s key attributes, clients highlight its ‘depth of knowledge and experience across complex antidumping and countervailing duties issues’. Alongside its premier trade remedies practice—which is routinely involved in major trade investigations on behalf of producers, importers and governments—the team also houses formidable trade policy and WTO offerings. The steel industry remains a significant sweet spot for the group; among its work in this sphere, high-profile trade litigator, Gregory Spak, is representing steel producer Gerdau Metaldom in a WTO dispute concerning the Dominican Republic’s antidumping measures on corrugated steel bar imports from Costa Rica. Global international trade head David Bond is also highly sought after for trade remedy disputes and trade policy matters; he is representing Sylvamo, a paper mill company, in a review of the antidumping duty order on uncoated paper from Brazil. Other key contacts in the Washington DC-based team include Jay Campbell, who is representing Marmen in proceedings related to antidumping and countervailing duties on utility scale wind towers from Canada, and senior associate Ron Kendler, who has a ‘unique ability to explain complex concepts clearly’.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 2

White & Case LLP has a strong record in securing clearances for business-critical, global transactions, and is a destination practice for a number of high-profile deals, handling DOJ and FTC investigations, regulatory challenges, and multijurisdictional approvals. In a standout representation for practice head George Paul and highly-rated senior associate Heather Greenfield, the firm is acting for Albertsons in its $24bn merger with Krogers, a major deal in the supermarkets sector which is currently facing a FTC Second Request, while the practice has also expanded its work for major big tech clients including Twitter and Google, as well as remaining active in key sectors such as tech and software. Rebecca Farrington is a key name for FTC and DOJ merger investigations as well as cross-border mandates, and is representing Avast in its high-profile merger with Norton Life, a deal with US and UK elements, while Tamer Nagy was promoted to partner in January 2023 and specializes in Middle East-domiciled work. Anna Kertesz continues to offer agency expertise on contested mergers, and is a regular advisor to key clients such as Meta and Whatsapp. All lawyers are in Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 2

White & Case LLP represent clients in complex and high-stakes commercial litigation matters, with versatile and experienced lawyers with courtroom experience in state and federal courts across the country. Glenn Kurtz is based in New York and has a track record in navigating litigations, especially cases involving financial instruments. Tara Lee, situated in Washington DC, is skilled as a trial advocate, having been involved in industry-defining matters, while Rachel Feldman in Los Angeles focuses on complex business disputes, representing large corporations in international litigation. Bryan Merryman, in Los Angeles, is considered by one client as ‘intelligent, efficient and creative’, while also being ‘an excellent problem solver.’

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 2

White & Case LLP has a strong track record in handling high-value M&A, project development and joint ventures in the oil and gas sector. Counting large-scale market players across the hydrocarbon value chain among its key roster of clients, the ‘proactive’ team’s experience extends to major conventional and unconventional onshore basins in North America, in addition to offshore transactions in the Gulf of Mexico. Practice leader Jay Cuclis handles high-end transactions across the energy sector, including project development, acquisitions and divestitures. Mingda Zhao is another key name, who focuses on private equity investments and cross-border transactions. All named partners operate from the firm’s office in Houston. Christopher Richardson departed the firm in March 2024.

Energy > Renewable/alternative power Tier 2

White & Case LLP has notable experience in the range of renewable energy transactions, including joint ventures, acquisitions, and project financing, with a particular focus on advising foreign investors seeking to buy into US-based projects and assets. A notable achievement of the team was the representation of Sempra Energy on its agreement to sell a non-controlling 10 percent interest in Sempra Infrastructure Partners, LP, to a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority for $1.78bn in cash in 2022. Nandan Nelivigi has broad experience acting for lenders, developers, sponsors, and investors, while Raymond Azar is a key contact for complex structuring mandates, including domestic and international transactions. At the associate level, Saghar Khodabakhsh is a name to note. All named lawyers are based in New York unless otherwise stated. Former practice head Christopher Richardson departed the firm in March 2024.

Environment > Environment: transactional Tier 2

The environment and climate change team at White & Case LLP offers clients expertise on regulatory matters, disputes and a range of transactional issues. Leaning on support from its large international network in Europe, Asia, Australia, and Latin America, the firm is well placed to handle cross-border deals and energy transition issues. It is particularly focused on financings and capital markets offerings, and M&A, and acts for corporations, investors, developers, lenders and governments. The team is jointly led by New York’s Seth Kerschner, who is recommended for corporate deals, bankruptcies, and real estate transactions, and Houston’s Taylor Pullins, who acts for energy sector clients on climate change and ESG matters. In Los Angeles, counsel Laura Mulry acts for a range of businesses and private equity firms on emerging contaminants, carbon offsets and carbon credits, and decarbonization as it relates to deals. Hayden Baker, specialist for energy and infrastructure projects and transactions, joined from Troutman Pepper in January 2023.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

White & Case LLP’s impressive run in SPAC IPOs in recent times has resulted in a series of de-SPAC engagements. Along with its strong emphasis on developing its SPAC expertise, the team has grown its capability in handling SEC regulatory matters. The capital markets practice is also well integrated with other departments, as demonstrated by its advice to firm-wide client Hertz Global Holdings on its $1.3bn re-IPO on Nasdaq following its emergence from Chapter 11. The team remains evenly balanced between issuer and underwriter engagements. Stuart Bressman is noted for underwriter-side engagements and Joel Rubinstein for SPAC transactions. All named lawyers are based in New York, though senior capital markets specialists also sit in Washington DC, Houston and other offices across the US.

Finance > Capital markets: global offerings

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings

White & Case LLP continues to generate significant deal flow through its outstanding Latin America practice, with much of the team sitting in New York and other US offices. It has also forged a greater presence in issuer-side engagements having historically been more bank driven. Its standing in leveraged finance brings it further credibility in the high-yield debt field. Moreover, its expertise in restructuring and liability management has brought it additional engagements in the Chapter 11 and Chapter 15 spaces, particularly as businesses respond to the economic shock caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and other geopolitical tensions. Daniel Nam has a major focus on investment grade and high-yield debt offerings, and is also highly rated for liability management. Jonathan Michels is another leading figure, along with Andrew Weisberg and Rafael Roberti. All named partners are based in New York.

Finance > Commercial lending

White & Case LLP continues to stand out for offering formidable advice to premier banks and major direct lenders, while also maintaining a strong borrower-side offering for its corporate borrower and middle-market private equity clients. Led by Eliza McDougall from New York, the team frequently advises on leveraged financings and on complexly structured syndicated loans, including advising JP Morgan on a $1.9bn acquisition financing for Clearlake Capital’s portfolio company FINThrive. McDougall co-led on this financing with senior New York partner Eric Leicht, who is also a key contact for direct lending. Specializing in work for borrower clients, Justin Wagstaff, also works from New York and works closely with the firm’s M&A practice to advise on cross-border acquisition financings. The team is also increasingly active in assisting with preferred equity financings; key contacts in this space are Los Angeles-based Christoffer Adler as well as the Boston-based Vincenzo Lucibello, who joined the team alongside Jessica Ball from Proskauer Rose LLP in early 2022. The team underwent further expansion with the arrival of Brett Pallin from Kirkland & Ellis LLP in June 2022 and the hires of Judah Frogel and Rajani Gupta from Allen & Overy LLP in September 2022. Associate Timothy Landwehr has left the firm.

Finance > Project finance

White & Case’s Americas Energy, Infrastructure and Project Finance and Asset Finance Regional Section is noted for its ability to offer special expertise in the development, financing, acquisition and sale of energy and infrastructure projects to a roster of high-profile clients. Praised by clients for its capability to ‘manage complex transactions quite easily’, the team is well-versed in the full range of project finance transactions, with reputed lawyer Nandan Nelivigi standing out for his ability to advise  clients on all stages of oil & gas projects. ‘Go-to expert’ Dolly Mirchandani leads the Global Industry Group, Infrastructure, Transportation & Logistics team, which is reputed for ‘delivering the best commercial and legal outcomes’, and is equipped to handle the whole life cycle of PPP projects, including development, financing, restructuring and sale of greenfield and brownfield PPP projects. Transactional lawyer Evelyn Balassiano is recommended for her work in PPP matters in an array of sectors, including airport, toll roads, rail and water, while counsel Claire Watson focuses her practice on the development, acquisition and financing of infrastructure assets, and is praised by clients for her ‘excellence in managing large and diverse stakeholder groups’. All lawyers are based in New York, unless mentioned otherwise. Former practice co-head Christopher Richardson left the team in March 2024.

Finance > Structured finance: derivatives and structured products Tier 2

With demonstrable experience advising on finance-linked derivatives, White & Case LLP acts for buy-side and sell-side clients across a broad range of asset classes, covering interest rates, foreign exchange, credits, equities and commodities, as well as securities lending transactions and structured products. Based in New York, the ‘knowledgeable, practical and extremely responsive’ team assists on cross-border transactions with offices in the UK, Canada and Latin America, and is well-placed to handle the regulatory aspects of derivatives mandates. Investment and commercial banks, private equity and hedge funds rely on the expertise of Ian Cuillerier in structured transactions, while Edward So acts for financial institutions on developing ESG and digital asset derivatives in the over-the-counter and regulated markets. Securities and repo transactions expert Rhys Bortignon left the firm in April 2024.

Finance > Structured finance: securitization Tier 2

The New York-based structured finance team at White & Case LLP works closely with the firm’s capital markets team in order to offer clients expert market knowledge alongside a comprehensive service full of technical expertise. The group is able to tackle both traditional and esoteric asset type transactions involving blue-chip and Fortune 500 multinational corporations and financial services. Furthermore, the practice demonstrates notable skill in rental car securitizations and financings, as well as asset-backed notes offerings and CLOs. David Thatch heads the team and is highly experienced in esoteric securitizations, leveraged investment funds and CLOs. Jim Fogarty covers the full range of financing issues and provides trusted counsel to clients wishing to navigate the current regulatory environment in regard to the Dodd-Frank Act, the Volcker Rule and risk retention. Elizabeth Devine is a key contact for US and cross-border receivables transactions, investment funds and structured credit facilities. Carla Moore left the practice in early 2024.

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

White & Case LLP advises a number of major clients such as The Hertz Corporation on key corporate governance concerns such as CEO transition advice and EV strategy advice. The firm is praised for its deep bench, with clients nothing that ‘the team’s global reach and resources means that they are prepared to handle any matter regardless of its size or scope’. Practice head David Thatch in New York is regional section head, and other standout team members include the ‘technically superb lawyer‘ Maia Gez. More widely, the group is noted for being ‘uniquely pragmatic in its approach to advising clients on issues and matters that present novel or complex situations.'

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 2

Drawing on the firm’s broad geographic coverage, White & Case LLP is a go-to advisor for multinational corporations, financial institutions, investment funds, sovereign wealth funds, governments and individuals across the globe. Based in New York, the team works across a number of major industries, including healthcare, life sciences, technology, metals and mining, consumer goods, and real estate, while Houston-based Chad McCormick‘s work further encompasses the energy sector. Global tax head Sang Ji leads the group, specializing in M&A, securities offerings, and IP-related tax planning – an area in which Steven Gee is an expert. David Dreier concentrates on bank financing and securitization transactions, while Scott Fryman has considerable experience advising on SPACs and business combinations. All named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise. Andrew Kreisberg left the firm in September 2023.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

White & Case LLP is frequently sought out for its experience in handling cross-border white-collar cases, where the firm can leverage its extensive international network in order to assist clients who often stem from the consumer products, pharmaceutical, technology, and financial services sectors. Under the leadership of New York-based Scott Hershman, whose expertise spans FCPA and anti-corruption issues alongside cybersecurity and insider trading, the practice is a go-to advisor for Fortune 500 corporates and their C-suite executives. ‘Superb attorney’ Maria Beguiristain in Miami is rated for her skill at the intersection of commercial litigation and white-collar defense, while Boston’s Michael Kendall specializes in matters with a cross-border dimension and the healthcare sector. Former federal prosecutor Joel Cohen joined the firm's New York office in early 2023 from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 3

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings

White & Case LLP has an excellent record in domestic and global debt offerings, most notably transactions that originate from Latin America and Europe. It has a fine record in investment grade bonds, high-yield debt and liability management. It is also making a further impression in sustainability-linked debt offerings. Gary Kashar is rated for representing big-name foreign issuers in high-value debt offerings. David Johansen and Andrew Weisberg are also key members of the team; the latter represented the underwriters on JAB Holdings’ $500m sustainability-linked bonds offering. Abigail Simon is a rising star at associate level. All named individuals are based in New York.

International Trade > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions Tier 3

White & Case LLP’s trade team ‘provides in-depth and detailed legal advice that is always dependable’. Distinguished by its ability to advise clients globally both on export controls against Russia and also on Russia’s countermeasures, it has become a top choice for a broad mix of clients to advise on sanctions and export controls regulation, including foreign governments, state-owned entities, financial institutions and multinational corporations. Together, experienced partners Nicole Erb and Richard Burke co-head the sanctions and export controls department. The team also fields a prominent band of up-and-coming names including Cristina Brayton-Lewis, who is recommended for export controls issues surrounding critical technology. The firm additionally houses an active customs offering, which supports US and foreign clients on compliance matters and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) investigations and audits. Global trade head David Bond has a significant customs dimension to his practice. Named attorneys are based in Washington DC unless stated otherwise. Joyce Adetutu left the firm in October 2023.

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

White & Case LLP offers in-depth experience in the space, representing major players in the energy, technology and biotech industries in employment and compensation aspects of multijurisdictional M&A and complex de-SPAC mergers, advising on the full spectrum of compensation and employee benefit matters to major international corporations, including Saudi Arabian Oil Company, Zimmer Biomet and Inoapps Limited. Global head Henrik Patel has vast expertise on compensation and benefits-related aspects of private equity and leveraged buyout transactions, while Tal Marnin specializes in assisting private equity sponsors on structuring management compensation in major corporate transactions. Victoria Rosamond focuses on drafting and negotiating executive employment arrangements, as well as supporting clients on benefits-related tax and securities law. All attorneys mentioned are based in New York. Laura McDaniels left the practice in October 2022.

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

Primarily based in New York, White & Case LLP‘s Americas corporate and M&A group balances a busy workload of domestic and cross-border deals, benefitting from a global network of offices and ‘strong multilingual capabilities‘. The firm fields extensive industry-specific expertise in the healthcare, tech, energy, infrastructure and financial services spaces, where practitioners advise investment banks as financial advisors, and leading corporations and private equity firms as sellers or acquirers in high-stakes M&A. Global head John Reiss brings deep experience in business deals, and is a key reference for private equity sponsors. Chang-Do Gong – who spearheads the firm’s Americas M&A group – possesses a strong transactional track record in the media, pharma, energy, IT, telecoms and infrastructure segments. Michael Deyong ‘can advise on the legal and business aspects of the most complex and significantly strategic matters‘; he is the trusted advisor to an impressive roster of corporate clients and SPACs. Focused on the oil and gas, solar energy, entertainment and financial services sectors, Morgan Hollins is a contact in the Houston office for public and private companies, as well as conflict committees. Partners Kimberly Petillo-Décossard and Ross Sturman, and associate Joseph Rosati joined the New York office from Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP in March 2023.

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

The private equity practice at White & Case LLP is a globally integrated full-service offering, assisting clients through all stages of their investments by working closely with the firm’s specialist groups in regulatory compliance, antitrust, and tax. The team is renowned for complex cross-border PE and M&A capabilities, advising corporates on multi-billion take private transactions, particularly in the infrastructure space. Oliver Brahmst co-heads the team from New York, having recently represented key client CVC Capital Partners in a $3.5bn investment of a minority stake in Authentic Brands Group LLC. Also leading the team is John Reiss , who is a trusted advisor to major clients including Harvest Partners, Roark Capital and Cobeqa. Luke Laumann is the global relationship partner to infrastructure giant Macquarie, having led on the $4.75bn sale of its Atlantic Aviation business to KKR. In Chicago, Gary Silverman’s broad sector focus encompasses industries such as manufacturing, life sciences, and media, while Adam Cieply is the firm’s global relationship partner to Brookfield. Daniel Kozin is noted for his skill representing sponsors in sophisticated acquisitions, divestitures and equity investments. All lawyers are New York based unless stated. Germaine Nicole Gurr departed the firm in February 2023.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 3

White & Case LLP has a strong team of technology transactions lawyers working throughout key US hubs, including New York, Silicon Valley, Los Angels, Washington DC, and Tampa. The lawyers have specialised expertise across a range of technology sub-sectors, including energytech, software, social media, automotives and fintech. The team is led global practice head Arlene Arin Hahn who regularly leads on cutting edge projects and technologies such as carbon capture. Other key partners include Erin Hanson, who acts for some of the world’s largest social media platforms, Andres Liivak, who is especially experienced in life sciences and healthtech, and in Los Angeles, Linda Sim, who has over 20 years experience advising on technology and outsourcing matters. All named partners are based in New York unless otherwise stated.

Transport > Aviation and air travel: finance Tier 3

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 4

White & Case LLP’s New York office is home to a large commercial litigation practice for which securities cases are an increasingly important feature. One client notes that ‘the litigation team has a unique sense of urgency and has demonstrated a deep understanding of international issues to deal with in US cases’. Practice head Glenn Kurtz has a strong reputation in this arena and is involved in cutting-edge mandates, such as handling a SPAC-related matter for FAST Acquisition Corporation. Key partner Kim Havlin, who continues her rapid rise as a first-chair trial lawyer, ‘has an outstanding level of response, is practical to deal with issues and resolves problems in fast-paced scenarios, and is always ready to help’. She is leading the defense of Loma Negra, Argentina’s largest manufacturer of cement, in a series of securities class actions alleging that it downplayed corruption scandals in its IPO materials.

Finance > Financial services regulation Tier 4

White & Case LLP is noted for providing comprehensive advice to leading financial institutions, with ‘incredibly deep knowledge of tech, regulations and market practice‘. Clients of the firm also benefit from a wide geographical spread, as the team draws from cross-border expertise to advise the likes of JP Morgan, Banco Itau and the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of El Salvador on transactional and contentious issues encompassing bank regulatory, fintech, cryptocurrency, payment system and anti-money laundering matters. Douglas Landy spearheads the offering from New York, showcasing knowledge of regulatory issues relating to M&A transactions; associate Chante Eliaszadeh joined the Los Angeles office from Dechert LLP in July 2022, fortifying the team’s cryptocurrency experience.

Media, technology and telecoms > Outsourcing Tier 4

Healthcare > Life sciences Tier 5

White & Case LLP houses a broad team which handles pharmaceutical antitrust damages cases, life science M&A and investments, and commercial litigation involving research agreements and contractual breaches. Peter Carney leads the team from Washington DC, drawing on his expertise in acting for domestic and overseas pharmaceutical companies in antitrust civil litigations and government investigations. New York-based antitrust litigator Robert Milne assists pharmaceutical clients with M&A transactions. Colleen Tracy James has since left the practice.

Real estate Tier 5

Leveraging a national presence, White & Case LLP‘s transactional team is well-equipped to handle joint ventures, acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, financings, workouts, construction and development for a wide variety of real estate owners, developers and asset types. Practise head Eugene Leone divides his time between the Chicago and New York offices and has a long track record of leading, structuring and executing commercial real estate transactions for a wide range of investors, including private equity, entrepreneurs and public companies. Michael McKeever in Chicago is another name to note, as is Steven Lutt in New York.

Tax > US taxes: contentious Tier 5

White & Case LLP leverages its global network of offices to bring clients expertise in both domestic and international tax controversies. The team has particular strength in alternative dispute resolution techniques, and has a record of resolving cases with the IRS during examination or at the Appeals level. Kim Marie Boylan, who is based in Washington DC, acts as head of the tax controversy practice, and was previously head of the firm’s global tax group. Boylan has expertise in litigation and mediation, in addition to the IRS’ administrative appeals procedures and other alternative dispute resolution processes. Brian Gleicher, also of Washington DC, leads on transfer pricing, and is active both within the US and internationally representing multinational clients. Associate Sean Lyons is a name to note.

M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m)

Energy > Energy litigation: oil and gas

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 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.