Well-regarded for its payments, capital markets, financial services, and transactional practices, Mayer Brown fields a strong team with a ‘wealth of knowledge’. In Washington DC, David Beam is lauded as a ‘go-to payments expert’, bringing extensive experience in credit products and specializing in digital payment regulatory matters, including licensing and product structuring. Operating out of New York, Joseph Castelluccio advises on digital assets and crypto-related corporate and business transactions and is noted for bringing ‘tons of experience’ across jurisdictions on regulatory issues, while Anna Pinedo is a leader within the capital markets and structured finance practices, regularly representing issuers and investment banks in financing transactions and advising on structured products and derivatives matters. In Chicago, Joe Pennell focuses on digital transformation and outsourced services transactions, notably with respect to customer-facing payment and lending digital platforms, and in Washington DC, Eric Mitzenmacher provides regulatory compliance advice, particularly within the payments and lending sectors. The arrival of partners Kimberly Hamm and Jennifer Zepralka, both formerly in government roles, further bolsters the team’s regulatory expertise.

Bolstered by its merger with Buckley LLP, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP  boasts a global full-service payments team capable of guiding clients through a broad spectrum of matters, ranging from cross-border remittances and money transmission licensing to card payment systems and AML/BSA policies. The practice is also recognized as a leader in venture finance and its expertise in regulatory technology. Based in Santa Monica, Clinton Rockwell leads the team and is regarded for his deep knowledge of consumer finance, while Josh Pollick focuses on representing venture capital firms on corporate and securities law matters. In Silicon Valley, Joseph Perkins is noted for commercializing disruptive and transformative technologies, including DAO and NFT creation, while also navigating complex regulatory regimes. Operating out of Washington DC, David McGill is involved in high-stakes disputes with regulatory implications and is frequently engaged in defending clients against government enforcement actions, including those initiated by the SEC and CFTC. Also based in DC, Behnam Dayanim leverages his public policy expertise to advise gaming, gambling, and other technology and consumer-focused companies in their interactions with regulatory bodies, and Katy Ryan is well-versed in a range of federal and state compliance requirements. Daniel Forester departed the team in July 2024.

Paul Hastings LLP is particularly adept at handling the myriad of regulatory, transactional, and corporate issues within the payments sector, as well as all stages of digital asset companies’ lifecycles, with extensive experience engaging with regulatory bodies such as the SEC. In Atlanta, Chris Daniel is an expert in payments and cryptocurrency, working on complex multijurisdictional mandates. Operating out of San Francisco, Eric Sibbitt is a key port of call for complex regulatory matters presented by financial technology and is a leader in the application of federal securities law, while Molly Swartz focuses on helping clients commercialize their product offerings, with particular expertise in earned wage access alternative financing and consumer protection laws. In New York, Dana Syracuse specializes in helping clients secure special-purpose bank and trust charters, while Josh Boehm advises financial institutions engaged in digital asset activities, focusing on obtaining regulatory approvals and guiding clients on deploying digital asset products in compliance with financial regulations.

New York-based Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP  is a key port of call for matters involving cryptoassets, digital payments, decentralized finance, and DAOs, and is also well-regarded for handling high-profile litigations. Scott Bennett  leads the team, advising clients on public and private securities offerings and corporate transactions. His capital markets practice includes SEC matters for cryptocurrency and DeFi platforms, the transition from traditional to fintech banking, and IPOs for late-stage private fintech companies. Kevin Orsini leverages his extensive litigation expertise to support blockchain and cryptocurrency companies in complex corporate battles and class actions, while Sasha Rosenthal-Larrea is particularly proficient in addressing intellectual property issues and navigating the data privacy aspects of corporate transactions.

DLA Piper LLP (US) offers an internationally integrated practice that is well-equipped to guide clients through cross-border and interdisciplinary matters involving blockchain, digital assets, and payments. Leading the team from Washington DC, Margo Tank advises on legal and regulatory aspects related to virtual asset services and money transmission. Also in DC, Jeffery Hare handles regulatory issues surrounding federal and state banking, bringing significant knowledge of chartering and conversions, while Deborah Meshulam  , a leader in the Securities Enforcement practice, is experienced in investigations and litigation conducted by the SEC and DOJ. In Los Angeles, James Williams advises on various matters pertaining to blockchain and digital assets, ranging from compliance to financing and licensing, with particular experience in stablecoins, decentralized finance, and tokenized yield products. In San Francisco, Michael Fluhr focuses on consumer class action and competitor litigation within the blockchain and digital asset sectors.

A strong choice for clients in the financial services, technology, and private equity sectors, Goodwin boasts a large team capable of advising on payments, financing for start-ups, litigation involving class actions, and transactional work. Mitzi Chang, based in San Francisco, is recognized for her expertise in investment matters and regulatory guidance on new products within the blockchain and Web3 space, while in Santa Monica, David Ajalat focuses on company formation and structuring, corporate governance, IPOs, and SEC reporting and compliance. In Silicon Valley, Grant Fondo leads in representing venture capital firms, financial institutions, and DAOs in litigation and investigation matters, and working out of Washington DC, Crystal Kaldjob, provides transactional and regulatory counsel to banks and other financial institutions on strategic partnerships. In New York, Meghan Spillane represents individuals and companies in complex civil litigation as well as at all stages of government investigations.

Bringing a wealth of regulatory and compliance knowledge, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP provides “unbelievable depth and quality” in advising on digital assets and blockchain matters. In New York, Jeffrey Poss focuses on transactional and corporate M&A work involving both public and private companies, while former CFTC chairman Christopher Giancarlo is “as experienced as you can get” when advising clients on futures, options, and swaps derivative market regulation. Kari Larsen specializes in digital asset matters, counseling on business and usage strategies as well as navigating regulatory requirements. The “exceptionally talented” Michael Selig focuses on asset management at the intersection of financial regulation and crypto technology, with extensive knowledge of SEC and CFTC regulations. In Washington DC, Justin Browder guides investment advisers, funds, broker-dealers, and digital market ecosystems on all aspects of federal securities law, while Kristina Littman is highly skilled in investigations and enforcement actions related to cryptocurrency and cybersecurity matters.

Particularly sought after by banking, technology, and venture capital clients, A&O Shearman is adept at handling high-value transaction and regulatory matters in the payments space. In New York, Adam Chernichaw focuses on blockchain and outsourcing matters, while Dario De Martino is an experienced M&A lawyer. Based in San Francisco, Alex Touma specializes in technology transactions with intellectual property aspects, including those related to blockchain and NFTs. In Washington DC, Todd Beauchamp brings his expertise as a payments specialist, advising on both regulatory and transactional matters.

Particularly noted for its strength in regulatory enforcement, litigation, and compliance within banking and financial services, Ballard Spahr LLP is a strong choice for clients in the payments, banking, and blockchain space. Ronald Vaske, based in Minnesota, has expertise in banking and payment systems, with a particular focus on representing banks in sponsorship and BaaS programs. Peter Jaslow in Pennsylvania is a key advisor to public and private companies on corporate and commercial transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and capital-raising. In New York, Marjorie Peerce brings extensive litigation experience, specializing in white-collar criminal defense, virtual currency, and regulatory matters.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton excels in representing clients in SEC investigations and civil litigation within the fintech sector, while also offering significant experience in digital asset financing, structuring, and a wide range of corporate matters. Derek Bush splits his time between New York and Washington DC, advising financial service providers and foreign sovereigns on U.S. banking regulations, including digital asset activities and fintech arrangements. In New York, David Lopez and Hugh Conroy are key partners, with the latter leading the firm’s digital assets group and focusing on merging new technologies with traditional banking frameworks. Also based in New York, Brandon Hammer deals with financial regulatory, market infrastructure, bankruptcy, and creditors’ rights issues, while operating out of DC, Matthew Solomons is an expert in high-profile digital asset disputes, regularly handling enforcement and litigation matters.

 

Leveraging its strength in capital markets, Dentons advises crypto exchanges, technology providers, and money transmitters on licensing and regulatory issues. In New York, Matt Yoon co-leads the firm’s capital markets regulatory team, with particular expertise within the consumer finance sector, while Victor Boyajian works on global projects for venture capital and private equity firms. Based in Washington DC, John Holahan guides technology clients on the regulation surrounding blockchain and digital currency, drawing on his extensive experience in banking and consumer credit markets.

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP’s strengths lie in financial products and payments work, as well as its transactional capabilities. The practice is led by Erin Fonté in Austin, who advises both bank and non-bank fintech market participants on corporate and regulatory matters, including product development and launches, and has been involved in creating various financial services products and payment networks. In Dallas, Peter Weinstock focuses on transactional work, BaaS, and enforcement matters, while Jarrett Hale specializes in litigation and compliance within financial services, with an emphasis on all aspects of consumer protection law. In New York, Lisa Sotto heads the firm’s privacy and cybersecurity practice, supported by Brittany Bacon.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP advises global clients on a range of transactions, regulatory, finance, and IP issues. In Los Angeles, John Filippone advises on transactional matters, including M&A, hostile takeovers, and private equity and venture capital. In Washington DC, Cory Barry specializes in securitization and structured finance transactions relating to receivables and financial assets, while Allen Denson helps fintech clients navigate investigations and defend against federal and state regulators. Other key lawyers include Kristin Lee in New York, who counsels on bank regulation and enforcement matters. Todd Zerega joined the practice in Pennsylvania from Perkins Coie LLP and brings extensive governance, regulatory, and transactional knowledge to the investment management team.

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP  is particularly noted for its transactional capabilities and excellent contentious work, spanning class actions, regulatory investigations, and sanctions. In New York, Jonathan H. Ashtor focuses on the technology and intellectual property aspects of major transactions, while Jessica Carey handles litigious matters, including investigations and federal lawsuits involving the SEC and other agencies. In San Francisco, Meredith Dearborn is experienced in high-stakes commercial disputes for tech companies and in matters involving antitrust issues. In Washington DC, Roberto J. Gonzalez leverages his experience at the and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to advise financial services clients on sanctions, AML, and consumer financial protection regulation.

Sullivan & Worcester LLP fields an ‘extremely sophisticated’ New York-based team with a broad blockchain offering. The practice is led by a duo of partners lauded for their ‘deep expertise’: Joel Telpner advises on digital sovereign currencies, stablecoins, and tokenized investment products, while Natalie Lederman focuses on the formation, development, and sale of digital assets. Scott Kaufman leads the firm’s emerging companies and venture capital group, and in Boston, Benjamin Armour handles a range of corporate matters, with an emphasis on mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and capital-raising transactions.

White & Case LLP regularly advises on bank charters and partnerships, NFT and blockchain projects, regulatory enforcement matters, as well as transactions. In New York, Pratin Vallabhaneni is well-versed in guiding clients on both regulatory and enforcement issues, while Burr Eckstut specializes in transactions involving intellectual property, including licensing, development, and joint ventures. Also in New York, Ladan Stewart is an experienced litigator focusing on SEC enforcement and white-collar investigations, and in Washington DC, the ‘very smart’ Rachel Rodman handles internal investigations, civil litigation, as well as consumer protection class actions.

Fielding a team of ‘excellent practitioners’, Winston & Strawn LLP is particularly noted for its regulatory and corporate work within the payments and digital asset sectors. Carl Fornaris is enlisted by financial firms, including banks and their holding companies, to guide them on AML compliance, licensing, new product launches, and enforcement matters, while Will Turner is proficient in M&A and venture capital investments. Daniel Stabile and Kimberly Prior are ‘key lawyers to have on your team’ for digital asset companies, with the latter focusing on securities and other financial regulatory considerations, as well as corporate matters and capital raises.  Andrew Hinkes has joined the practice from K&L Gates, bolstering the firm’s digital asset offering. All of the individuals mentioned are located in Miami.

Washington DC-based Arnold & Porter is a strong choice for clients facing investigation and enforcement actions, as well as those requiring guidance within the virtual currency ecosystem. Kevin Toomey leads the team, focusing on representing banks and financial services companies in regulatory and enforcement matters, with extensive experience representing clients before various federal agencies. Christopher Allen specializes in federal and state law compliance, advising on enforcement matters related to federal banking agencies, and David Freeman advises financial institutions, investment managers, and broker-dealers on regulatory issues, M&A, and the development of new products.

Dechert LLP remains a key port of call for investment advisers and broker-dealers on digital transactions, as well as corporate and cybersecurity matters. Leading the team from San Francisco, Mark D Perlow has extensive experience in structuring, forming, and reorganizing mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and hedge funds. Splitting his time between New York and Philadelphia, Ralph Mazzeo is well-versed in capital markets, guiding clients through the development and sale of digital assets, while in New York, Sarah Milam specializes in public and private securitizations, warehouse financing facilities, and other structured transactions.

The ‘knowledgeable and dedicated’ team at Greenberg Traurig, LLP  regularly advises tech companies on complex regulatory and compliance issues, as well as high-value transactions and startup financing. In New York, David Greenberg focuses on technology and intellectual property transactions and strategy, while in Los Angeles, Barbara Jones uses her extensive experience in corporate and securities law to advise on complex international and domestic transactions. In Miami, Lisa Lanham specializes in state licensing and regulatory compliance, offering ‘concise and actionable’ advice, especially on money transmission matters.

With a global footprint, Jones Day excels at providing regulatory advice and representing clients in litigation and investigations, particularly for matters relating to securities law. Operating out of San Francisco, Abradat Kamalpour counsels on transactions as well as the creation and legal build-out of cryptocurrencies and payment systems, while Rita Yoon is a successful trial lawyer, defending clients in intellectual property litigation and ITC investigations. In Dallas, Mark Rasmussen focuses on securities regulation and litigation issues, and based in Washington DC, Laura Pruitt brings a wealth of experience from her time at the SEC to provide clients with advice on broker-dealer registration and compliance, ATSs, and investment adviser regulation.

 

The ‘extremely knowledgeable and helpful’ team at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP regularly advises on product launches, regulatory compliance, and payment matters. Based in Los Angeles, co-head Scott Pearson specializes in advising fintechs, banks, and institutional investors on high-profile regulatory investigations and enforcement matters, as well as class action litigations. Fellow co-head Brian Korn is based in New York, focusing on corporate finance transactions, including IPOs, venture financings, and fund formation.

Acknowledged for its strength in digital asset disputes and bankruptcy litigation, the team at McDermott Will & Emery LLP is also well-equipped to handle regulatory compliance and transactional matters. Leading the practice from New York, Joseph Evans leverages his understanding of regulatory frameworks to handle complex litigation and to advise on the regulatory aspects of transactions. Also in New York, Joseph Evans represents clients in federal and state criminal investigations as well as related civil matters, while in Dallas, Shawn Helms focuses on transactional blockchain work, including matters involving intellectual property considerations.

 

McGuireWoods LLP is a strong choice for clients seeking representation in consumer compliance, litigation, and regulatory investigations. Leveraging her experience as an SEC prosecutor, Los Angeles-based practice head Molly White represents financial institutions, broker-dealers, and individuals in investigations conducted by federal agencies, while also handling commercial litigation matters. In Chicago, Sarah Zielinski focuses on class action litigation and compliance counseling, with an emphasis on federal and state consumer protection and antitrust matters, while in San Francisco, Brian Coughlan advises investment funds on transactions. Rakesh Gopalan has departed the firm.

A key port of call for banking clients on digital asset matters, Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP  is particularly adept at dealing with regulatory fintech mandates. Based in New York, Andrew Lom advises on the design of financial products and is a trusted advisor within the private wealth sector regarding governance and asset management. Patrick Dolan, also in New York, focuses on financings and securitizations for a range of asset types. In Denver, Racheal Hashmall guides clients on the development and launch of innovative financial products and services.

Ropes & Gray LLP is well-equipped to advise on a variety of blockchain and cryptocurrency matters, including those involving complex intellectual property considerations and litigation. Melissa Bender splits her time between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, counseling asset managers on the formation and launch of funds holding digital assets, as well as providing securities and market advice relating to ICOs, DAOs, and other token issuances. In Los Angeles, Amy Jane Longo brings her experience as regional trial counsel for the SEC to advise clients on a range of securities enforcement and litigation matters, while in Boston, Josh Jackson guides clients through transactions involving tech, data, or IP assets.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP leverages its strong transactional and commercial practice to advise on bank-fintech partnerships, M&A, and financial regulation and enforcement. Jeffrey Brill handles transactions and corporate matters for both public and private clients, while Mark Chorazak specializes in regulatory and legislative banking law issues. Stuart Levi brings broad expertise in Web3 and digital asset transactions, advising clients on matters ranging from intellectual property and privacy to outsourcing and cybersecurity, and Ryan Dzierniejko focuses on pre-IPO financing and IPOs. In Washington, Adam Cohen concentrates on bank-fintech partnerships and the regulatory framework surrounding payments and licensing. All individuals mentioned are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

Steptoe LLP is a strong choice for cryptocurrency trading platforms, investment funds, and startups, regularly advising on regulatory and compliance matters relating to digital assets. The team is spearheaded by Alan Cohn in Washington DC, who counsels clients on a range of regulatory issues facing blockchain platforms, while Coy Garrison provides technical expertise in federal securities law, drawn from his experience at the SEC. The firm has recently expanded its fintech capabilities with the addition of five new partners, including payments specialist Stephen Aschettino, who joined the firm in New York from Norton Rose Fulbright.

 

WilmerHale is particularly strong at handling a range of regulatory work for blockchain and payments clients, as well as advising on investigations and enforcement matters. In New York, Zachary Goldman advises cryptocurrency and digital asset companies on regulatory issues, including AML, sanctions, and money transmission, while in Washington DC, Franca Harris Gutierrez counsels financial institutions, including international banks and mortgage servicers, on regulatory and transactional issues. Also in DC, former director of the SEC’s Division of Enforcement, Stephanie Avakian, is well-placed to address challenges posed by government investigations, and Michael Dawson is enlisted by technology clients for regulatory compliance. Other key lawyers include New York-based Tiffany Smith, who guides clients on the applicability of regulations to products, compliance programs, and licensing processes.