Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate

Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP’s business reorganization practice, led by Adam Harris  and Douglas Mintz, in New York and Washington DC respectively, specializes in representing distressed investing funds.
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP’s bankruptcy and financial restructuring practice stands out for its work in the healthcare sector. Gary Freedman in Miami, Shane Ramsey in Nashville, and Dylan Trache in Washington DC jointly lead the practice.

Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate in United States

Akin

Akin‘s financial restructuring practice, operating out of New York, Washington, D.C., and Texas, is well known for representing companies, ad hoc groups, creditors’ committees, and investors in relation to high-profile, multi-billion-dollar restructurings. Practice co-head Ira Dizengoff has an excellent reputation for advising creditors’ and bondholder committees in major corporate restructurings, and also has considerable experience representing debtors in possession, post-petition lenders, and acquirers of distressed assets. Practice co-head Philip Dublin has worked on deals involving nearly $27 billion in liabilities in the past year, and has led teams representing debtors, secured term lenders, first and second lien lenders, bondholder groups, creditors’ committees, and DIP lenders. Michael Stamer has considerable experience representing creditors, lenders, and companies in both in- and out-of-court reorganizations, and has recently led teams representing bondholders, senior unsecured noteholders, and unsecured noteholders. Abid Qureshi focuses on litigation in corporate reorganizations, while Arik Preis has been at the forefront of the major opioid manufacturer restructurings. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.


Practice head(s):

Ira Dizengoff; Philip Dublin


Other key lawyers:

Abid Qureshi; Arik Preis; Brad Kahn; Michael Stamer; Naomi Moss; Sara Brauner; Scott Alberino


Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP

Led by Marshall Huebner and Damian Schaible, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP’s bankruptcy and restructuring practice represents a wide range of clients, including distressed companies, financial institutions, creditors, hedge funds, and asset acquirers, in relation to complex insolvencies and restructurings in and out of court, and has an especially strong reputation for representing ad hoc groups of lenders and noteholders in chapter 11 cases. Notably, Huebner, alongside Timothy Graulich and Eli Vonnegut, has recently led a team advising Purdue Pharma L.P., in connection with its high-profile chapter 11 reorganization, involving billions of dollars of asserted claims relating to its opioid pain medication products, while Schaible has led a team advising an ad hoc group of investors in relation to Avianca’s DIP-to-exit financing, as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy.  Benjamin Kaminetzky specializes in bankruptcy litigation, while Brian Resnick stands out for his experience in relation to pre-packaged and traditional bankruptcies, out-of-court workouts, DIP and exit financings, bankruptcy litigation, and Section 363 sales. Darren Klein has played a key role in several recent complex restructurings. The practice operates principally out of New York, and all lawyers mentioned are based there.

Practice head(s):

Damian Schaible; Marshall Huebner


Other key lawyers:

Angela Libby; Benjamin Kaminetzky; Brian Resnick; Darren Klein; David Hahn; Eli Vonnegut; Elliot Moskowitz; Natasha Tsiouris; Timothy Graulich


Key clients

Purdue Pharma


Revlon


Grupo Aeroméxico


Avianca


Luckin Coffee


China Fishery


Washington Prime Group


Work highlights


Kirkland & Ellis LLP

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s restructuring group, jointly led by Edward Sassower and Joshua Sussberg in New York, has an outstanding reputation for representing debtors in connection with major Chapter 11 cases, with Sassower leading the Chapter 11 reorganization of Indianapolis-based Aearo Technologies, while Sussberg has recently led teams representing BlockFi, a major provider of cryptocurrency-related products, and Celsius Network LLC, a cryptocurrency-based finance platform, following the collapse of the cryptocurrency market. The practice also represents a broad range of non-debtor clients from a variety of sectors. Anup Sathy, operating from Chicago and New York, has considerable experience representing companies, buyers, boards, investors, and lenders in relation to all aspects of insolvency situations and has restructured more than $100bn of debt obligations in his career. Patrick Nash in Chicago specializes in complex business reorganizations, troubled company M&A, debt restructurings, and distressed asset investment, and has notable cross-border insolvency experience. New York-based Nicole Greenblatt represents high-profile clients, including debtors, creditors, equity holders, and investors, in relation to chapter 11 cases, out-of-court restructurings, and special situation investments or acquisitions, while Chicago-based Ryan Bennett focuses on advising corporate debtors and secured and unsecured creditors on various transactional and litigation-related matters. Christine Okike in New York has experience in various industries, including financial services, sports, retail, energy, technology, and telecommunications. Notably, Ciara Foster, also in New York, has led on several matters, including the Chapter 11 case of Cineworld Group plc.

Practice head(s):

Edward Sassower; Joshua Sussberg


Other key lawyers:

Alexandra Schwarzman; Anup Sathy; Chad Husnick; Ciara Foster; Christine Okike; Emily Geier; John Luze; Matthew Fagen; Nicole Greenblatt; Patrick Nash; Ryan Bennett; Steven Serajeddini


Testimonials

‘Kirkland is the market leader in debtor representations and brings to bear a wide array of experts in a variety of fields to support their clients. They have well established working relationships with virtually all participants in the corporate restructuring sector including lenders and other financing sources and financial advisors. They understand the market and what can and can’t be accomplished in a restructuring and are strong advocates for their clients. I believe that only a very few firms, if any, have the capabilities that Kirkland brings to a restructuring representation.’ 

‘All of the partners I’ve worked with have extensive restructuring experience and are capable of managing complex restructuring transactions. They also recognize when the process demands that they bring in additional expertise or support and can do so promptly and effectively. Joshua Sussberg, Steve Serajeddini, Chad Husnick, Emily Geier, Matt Fagen and John Luze all stand out. 

‘They bring truly deep expertise and a willingness to play a hands on role in guiding companies through complex and challenging processes. The people on the team were the differentiator here – top talent with great ability to work with an executive team and bring them along in the process.’

‘The top partners are Alex Schwarzman and Ryan Bennett, both of whom really are top 1% professionals in this space. Alex is extremely knowledgeable, an innovative problem solver, and has great relationships with other firms which is critical in this process. Her availability and work style were fantastic and she had a hugely positive impact on the outcome of the process. Ryan Bennett is a great leader with an exceptional talent for development and with exceptional communication skills. He has great relationships with other firms which plays a critical role in success of this process. He also has great style with our board which was very impactful in securing a positive outcome. Overall the team at K&E was fantastic with excellent availability, guidance, expertise and work ethic.’

‘Huge depth of talent and expertise. Dominate the sector.’

‘Chad Husnick is a superb practitioner. He is goal oriented, commercially astute and very direct in his advice. He is easy to get along with too.’

Key clients

Aearo Technologies


Altera Infrastructure L.P.


BlockFi


Carestream Health, Inc.


Carlson Travel, Inc.


Celsius Network LLC


Cineworld Group plc


Envision Healthcare Corporation


GTT Communications


HONX, Inc.


Intelsat S.A.


Just Energy Group, Inc.


Nordic Aviation Capital


Pipeline Health System, LLC


Riverbed Technology, Inc.


Seadrill Limited


Seadrill New Finance Limited


Service King


Ad Hoc Group of Unsecured Noteholders of Talen Energy Supply, LLC


Voyager Digital Holdings, Inc.


Latham & Watkins LLP

Latham & Watkins LLP’s broad and multidisciplinary restructuring and special situations practice has a well-established reputation for its senior secured lending expertise as well as significant debtor- and creditor-side experience. With extensive experience representing creditor groups and investors in relation to in- and out-of-court restructurings, George Davis in New York is global chair of the group, with vice chair Jeff Bjork based in Los Angeles. The practice has been involved in several recent high-profile mass tort bankruptcies, with Davis having led teams representing major biopharmaceutical company Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals in connection with its Chapter 11 bankruptcy involving several billion dollars of asserted tort, regulatory, and antitrust liabilities, a case which also saw a key role for New York-based Anupama Yerramalli. Notably, Keith Simon in New York has recently led a team representing Citi, as agent and subrogated lender, in connection with the chapter 11 reorganization of cosmetics company Revlon, and specifically its $500 million mistaken payment. Caroline Reckler in Chicago also stands out for her bankruptcy litigation work.

Practice head(s):

George Davis; Jeff Bjork; Bruce Bell


Other key lawyers:

Adam Goldberg; Amy Quartarolo; Anupama Yerramalli; Caroline Reckler; Helena Tseregounis; Jason Gott; Kimberly Posin; Keith Simon


Testimonials

‘The team is laser focused on a successful strategic conclusion of the matter at hand and has a remarkably deep understanding of the opposing talent and tactics. The team works together very well. It’s overall approach and its dealing with the opposition is anchored in achieving a successful commercial outcome.’

‘Latham has one of the industry-leading groups, along with Paul Weiss, Kirkland, and Weil. The group is very experienced, frequently appears in large, complex matters, and is very well-regarded in the field. Its debtor-side work is particularly well thought of, although the firm also does significant creditor-side engagements as well.’

‘Jeff Bjork has assembled a highly competent team. On an individual basis, unlike some, he approaches difficult litigation matters with the strategic view that commercial agreements among the parties ultimately drives successful outcomes; and not specific steps in the bankruptcy process which are less important.’ 

‘George Davis, the group head, is exceptionally able and experienced. He is a superb team leader who has led many of Latham’s largest and most complex engagements. He brings years of experience, good judgment, and a very high profile within his field. Jeff Bjork, the deputy group head, is likewise very highly regarded. Like George Davis, he has led many of the group’s largest and most complex engagements. Caroline Reckler is a outstanding mid-level partner who has gained increasing recognition and stature from her leadership roles in a number of Latham’s most prominent matters.’

‘Kim Posin is a very talented and knowledgeable Partner. Posin is a tough negotiator but is grounded in reaching commercial agreement. Always responsive.’

‘The quality starts at the top. George Davis is practical, reasonable, persistent, insightful and an excellent leader. He is tough without coming across as aggressive. He has access to top-notch litigation department help and excellent young partners, among whom Anupama Yerramalli and Jason Gott stand out for me. The firm handles many matters at once but everything seems to have appropriate levels of partner involvement.’

‘The team was excellent and cohesive. Jeff Bjork and Adam Goldberg provided excellent leadership. They knew the other players, outlined an aggressive but workable strategy, and executed it with the team with great skill.’

‘Jeff Bjork and Adam Goldberg with the principal partners. They are bright, personable, knowledgeable, creative, connected, and responsive.’ 

Key clients

Ad Hoc Committee of GTT Noteholders


Axalta Performance Coatings


Citibank, N.A.


Credit Suisse


DBI Intermediate Holdco LLC


Electric Last Mile Solutions, Inc.


GE Corporate Financial Services


Huachen Energy Co.


Huron Consulting Group


Imerys Talc America, Inc.


Lloyds Bank plc (“Lloyds”)


Lucky Brand Dungarees


Lumileds Holding B.V.


Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals


Oaktree Capital


Orion Energy Partners


Paddock Enterprises (formerly Owens-Illinois Inc.)


Pemberton Strategic Credit


Pembina Pipeline Corporation


Philadelphia Academic Health Holdings, LLC


Searchlight Capital Partners


The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints


Three Arrows Capital Ltd.


UBS Securities


Work highlights


  • Advised Mallinckrodt in the company’s recently announced completion of its Chapter 11 proceedings in the Delaware Bankruptcy Court to resolve several billion dollars of asserted tort, regulatory, and antitrust liabilities, and thousands of opioid-related lawsuits.
  • Advised Huachen Energy Co., Ltd on a bond restructuring and the first-ever US Chapter 15 recognition of a PRC bankruptcy reorganization plan.
  • Advising Citi, as agent and subrogated lender, with respect to the Chapter 11 proceedings of Revlon, Inc.

Milbank

Milbank’s financial restructuring group has a strong reputation for representing companies, official and ad hoc creditor committees, lenders, equity security holders, and distressed asset acquirers in relation to domestic and cross-border Chapter 11 proceedings across a variety of industries, including a number of high-profile proceedings in the airline industry. Notably, the practice has also represented preferred equity holders in relation to the high-profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy of cryptocurrency platform Celsius Network and served as counsel to the official committee of unsecured creditors in the chapter 11 case of independent power producer Talen Energy Supply. Practice head Dennis Dunne has considerable experience acting as counsel to distressed companies in reorganization cases and out-of-court workouts as well as committees representing key creditor constituencies. Evan Fleck has represented both debtors and creditors and played a leading role in the Chapter 11 reorganization of Avianca Airlines. Samuel Khalil has a strong record in cross-border mandates, representing debtors and creditors in Chapter 11 proceedings and out-of-court workouts, while Tyson Lomazow is noted for his work on distressed acquisitions, advising both sellers and buyers such as private equity funds. Matthew Brod recently led a team, alongside Dunne and litigator Andrew Leblanc in Washington DC, representing equity and debt investors in connection with the Chapter 11 reorganization of Aeroméxico. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York, unless otherwise stated.

Practice head(s):

Dennis Dunne


Other key lawyers:

Albert Pisa; Andrew Leblanc; Evan Fleck; Matthew Brod; Nelly Almeida; Samuel Khalil; Tyson Lomazow


Testimonials

‘Exceptional service, global capabilities, highly respected advice. First rate leadership on collective matters.’

‘Dennis Dunne is a gifted strategist and deal maker, with very impressive boardroom skills and subject matter expertise.’ 

‘Consulate advocate Andrew LeBlanc is in the most elite group of skilled and talented bankruptcy litigators, to be trusted with the most difficult and complex issues in the highest stake matters.’

‘Evan Fleck is a rising star and hugely talented restructuring lawyer. He is a fierce advocate and gifted dealmaker.’ 

‘Al Pisa is one of the best and most successful lawyers for private capital in stressed and distressed situations. Highly capable.’

‘Among the most commercial and practical law firms. Milbank’s broad experience and relationships help facilitate deals.’

‘Dennis Dunne is one of the premier bankruptcy deal makers. A straight shooter who commands respect. Evan Fleck and Sam Khalil are also highly capable lawyers whose steady hand and practical approach help clients navigate complicated restructurings. Al Pisa is a tremendous resource when it comes to navigating the pitfalls within credit documents.’

Key clients

Avianca Airlines


Preferred equity holders of Celsius Network Ltd


Aeroméxico Plan Sponsors


Ad Hoc Group of Lenders to GTT Communications


Creditors in connection with the chapter 11 cases of LATAM Airlines Group, S.A. and its affiliated debtors


Lenders of Nordic Aviation Capital


Official committee of unsecured creditors to Talen Energy Supply


Incora


Ambac Financial Group


Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and Centerbridge


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Arcapita Bank


Sculptor Capital and Sixth Street Asset Management


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Intelsat, S.A.


Ligado Networks LLC


Ad hoc group of first lien lenders to J.C. Penney


H/2 Capital Partners


Secured lender of Crestlloyd


Chapter 11 Trustee of Gavireli


Ad hoc group of senior secured noteholders to Lycra group


Ad hoc group of term loan lenders to Rodan + Fields


Work highlights


  • Advised Avianca Airlines, the second-largest airline group in Latin America, in its Chapter 11 reorganization.
  • Represented an ad hoc group of term loan lenders of GTT Communications, Inc.
  • Represented Incora, an aerospace supplier owned by Platinum Equity, in connection with its evaluation of options for addressing near-term debt challenges, resulting in the completion of a large, creative recapitalization through a novel up tier.

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP

Paul Basta and Andrew Rosenberg are among the co-chairs at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP‘s restructuring practice, which represents a wide range of clients, including debtors and distressed companies, fulcrum creditor groups, equity sponsors, and distressed asset investors, across a broad spectrum of industries in relation to major restructurings both in and out of court. Alan Kornberg continues to lead on high-profile matters, while co-chair Brian Hermann played a key role in the prepackaged chapter 11 case of Salem Harbor Power Development. Deputy chair Alice Eaton specializes in postpetition and exit financings and stands out for her contribution in the Revlon, Mallinckrodt, and Talen Energy Supply reorganizations. Andrew Parlen represents public and private companies, ad hoc groups of creditors, and investors in a variety of distressed situations, while Elizabeth McColm has played a key role in the recapitalization of CHC Group LLC as well as in the practice’s representation of Lion Capital, as secured lender and equity sponsor, in the chapter 11 case of jewelry company Alex and Ani. Kyle Kimpler handles bankruptcy-related litigation and insolvency issues involving structured finance and derivative transactions. All lawyers are based in New York.


Practice head(s):

Andrew Rosenberg; Paul Basta; Brian Hermann


Other key lawyers:

Alice Eaton; Andrew Parlen; Christopher Hopkins; Elizabeth McColm; Kenneth Ziman; Kyle Kimpler; Robert Britton; Alan Kornberg


Testimonials

‘The PW team is incredibly responsive and diligent in all their efforts. I never have trouble connecting with Partners or associates on any item we are working on.’

‘Elizabeth McColm stands out with her ability to work to commercial resolutions in difficult situations. She doesn’t waste time/money and as a client I find it quite refreshing. She brings in experts when it’s outside her field and always works on the client’s behalf!!!’

‘Overall this is the best restructuring practice in my opinion. It’s also meaningful that the restructuring practice is complimented with several other very strong practice areas (i.e. litigation, tax, etc.). In addition to having stellar partners at the top, Paul Weiss also has the deepest bench among its peers.’

‘Brian Hermann is the best bankruptcy practitioner that I have ever worked with him. His advice is always spot-on, regardless of the pressure that he and his client are facing. He’s equally capable of deal making and litigating, and is able to credibly threaten the latter to get to a great outcome for his clients. He works tirelessly and is always accessible. Similarly, Andrew Rosenberg is the consummate deal-maker whose tremendous experience and credibility add value to his predominantly investment fund clients. Andy never gets flustered.’

‘Thoughtful and relentless. You get the partners/team who pitch. They are all top of the BK field. Know all the players and are great at managing the matters/personalities.’

‘Andy Rosenberg is the dean of managing groups and moving processes forward. With his experience and connections (and legal knowledge), could not ask for a better creditor-side lawyer.

‘Brian Hermann is an amazing advocate and one of the few people who you feel can potentially change a judge’s–or opponent’s–mind when he presents. Always, always clam and collected no matter the circumstances. And always trying to solve issues, not just find them.’

Key clients

Anchorage Capital Group


Apollo Global Management


Bain Capital Credit


Barrow Street Capital


California Public Utilities Commission


CHC Group


Glass Mountain


Highbridge Capital Management


J.P. Morgan Asset Management


KKR & Co.


Lion Capital


Madison Square Boys & Girls Club


Revlon


Salem Harbor Power Development


Sculptor Capital Management


Strategic Value Partners


The Capital Group Companies


The Carlyle Group


The Collegiate Churches of New York


Whitebox Advisors


Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP has a strong reputation for its work advising debtors in relation to major Chapter 11 reorganizations, also representing equity sponsors, creditors, ad hoc creditor groups, official committees of unsecured creditors, asset purchasers, and other interested parties in various large and mid-sized restructurings. Gary Holtzer, Ray Schrock, and Matt Barr jointly lead the team- Holtzer has wide experience in all aspects of domestic and international restructurings, crisis management, corporate governance, financings, and acquisitions involving distressed situations, and has recently led on several major restructurings, including of Scandinavian Airlines Systems, Johnson & Johnson, and Brooks Brothers Group. Schrock has advised a wide range of clients, including public companies, financial institutions, and private equity funds, portfolio companies, and creditors, while Barr has considerable experience representing debtors, secured and unsecured creditors, bondholders, and ad hoc groups. Ronit Berkovich specializes in representing large and mid-market companies in out-of-court workouts, international restructurings, and prepackaged Chapter 11 cases in a variety of industries, while Kelly DiBlasi has recently served as debtor’s counsel in relation to several key restructurings across a variety of sectors. Garrett Fail handles all aspects of domestic and international debt restructurings, as well as crisis management and corporate governance. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York. Sunny Singh departed in March 2023.


Practice head(s):

Matt Barr; Gary Holtzer; Ray Schrock


Other key lawyers:

David Griffiths; Garrett Fail; Jeffrey Saferstein; Kelly DiBlasi; Robert Lemons; Ronit Berkovich


Testimonials

‘Matt Barr is an outstanding lawyer and one of the best I’ve worked with in my 32-year career, and the team he has assembled is likewise top notch. I think what differentiated Matt and his team from many I’ve worked with was their dedication to client service, frequent and effective communication, and best in class work product.’

Top-notch team, excellent and practical advice.

Key clients

iFIT Health & Fitness Inc.


Redbox Entertainment


Regis Corporation


Phoenix Services


Ruby Pipeline L.L.C.


Talen Energy Supply LLC


All Year Holdings Limited


Scandinavian Airlines System


Serta Simmons


Kabbage, Inc. (d/b/a KServicing)


Work highlights


  • Represented Talen Energy Supply, LLC in its Chapter 11 cases with approximately $5 billion in funded debt obligations.
  • Advised Scandinavian Airlines, an airline holding company based in Sweden in connection with its restructuring efforts.
  • Represented Kabbage, Inc and its debtor-affiliates in their Chapter 11 cases.

White & Case LLP

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.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Lauria


Other key lawyers:

Aaron Colodny; Andrew O’Neill; Andrew Zatz; Bojan Guzina; Brian Pfeiffer; Chris Shore; David Turetsky; Gregory Pesce; Harrison Denman; Jessica Lauria; John Cunningham; Keith Wofford; Richard Kebrdle; Scott Greissman; Steve Moeller-Sally; Thomas MacWright


Testimonials

‘Jessica Lauria is an exceptionally talented lawyer holding tremendous respect with judges and other attorneys. She responds immediately to calls and questions. She accepts and respects client input. She is nothing short of a bankruptcy guru.’ 

‘There are many firms with experienced lawyers and a deep knowledge of Bankruptcy law and procedure. White & Case stands apart from those firms by virtue of its client- and case-specific strategic approach to success for each matter. Combined with a common sense practical business acumen and detailed execution puts White & Case at the top of the bankruptcy practice.’

‘Two partners who are truly exceptional lawyers are Tom Lauria and Chris Shore. I have worked with both on several mega bankruptcies and their thinking and performance have been flawless. My experience is that Tom and Chris present and execute litigation strategies that their opponents don’t even think about and typically have no plan of response other than wildly throwing a lot of stuff against the wall to see what sticks. As a bonus, they are both honest and principled attorneys.’

‘Kebrdle and Cunningham are hugely experienced.’

‘Harrison Denman and Andrew Zatz are both very savvy lawyers who know how to represent their clients’ interests efficiently and effectively. They know the law and know how to score wins discretely and quickly.’

‘Very commercial team. Hiring them sends a message to counterparties that you mean business but you intend to get to a deal. Decades of experience with debtor and creditor work that is unmatched.’

‘Keith Wofford finds a way–not an excuse. For that reason, he is “go to” counsel. Steve Moeller-Sally is one of few lawyers in the bankruptcy bar that is adroit with spreadsheets and is an invaluable lawyer on any deal. Tom Lauria is a household name and his appearance in a case raises eyebrows because he typically represents the “smart money.”’

‘Chris Shore is an outstanding litigator with an incredible amount of complex experience. Tom Lauria has been involved in countless major bankruptcies and has tremendous experience too. Tom MacWright has developed a niche EM practice. Brian Pfeiffer is outstanding as well.’

Key clients

The Official Committee of Unsecured Creditor of Celsius Network LLC


Coordinating Committee of Agent Banks and Lenders of Seadrill Ltd.


Hertz Global Holdings, Inc.


Boy Scouts of America


Ad Hoc Group of LATAM Bondholders


The agent and existing term loan lenders of Petroserv Marine Inc.


3M Company


Johnson & Johnson


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Ion Geophysical Corporation


Deutsche Bank


Strike LLC


Strategic Value Partners LLC


Constellation Oil Services Holding S.A.


AlphaCredit (Alpha Holding, S.A. de C.V. and related entities)


Bausch Health Companies Inc.


PWM Property Management


GT Real Estate Holdings, LLC


Credito Real


Ad Hoc Group of Individual Victims of Purdue Pharma L.P.


Sovereign Representations (Republic of Sri Lanka, Republic of Suriname, Lebanon, Buenos Aires)


Work highlights


  • Represented the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Chapter 11 case of Celsius Network LLC in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
  • Representing Boy Scouts of America in its ongoing Chapter 11 proceedings.
  • Represented Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. and certain affiliates in their Chapter 11 cases and global restructuring matters.

Brown Rudnick LLP

Brown Rudnick LLP’s bankruptcy and corporate restructuring practice advises a wide range of clients, including debtors, ad hoc committees, equity security holders, and unsecured creditors, in relation to corporate restructurings, commercial bankruptcy litigation, and mass tort bankruptcy litigation. The practice boasts an especially strong reputation for representing official committees in Chapter 11 cases and has recently represented the official committee of unsecured creditors in relation to the Chapter 11 reorganization of multinational cosmetics and personal care conglomerate, Revlon. Robert Stark, in New York, chairs the department, while Catherine Castaldi, in Orange County, is practice group leader. Stark has extensive experience advising official committees in litigated bankruptcies, and, alongside New York-based chair of cross-border, mass tort, and restructuring litigation David Molton, recently led a team that successfully represented the official committee of talc claimants in connection with the high-profile bankruptcy of Johnson & Johnson subsidiary LTL Management LLC.

Practice head(s):

Robert Stark; Catherine Castaldi


Other key lawyers:

David Molton; Eric Goodman; Jeffrey Jonas; Sunni Beville


Testimonials

‘Brown Rudnick fields a highly experienced bankruptcy and restructuring team that has worked on a wide variety of cases across industries. The team is particularly strong in matters involving contested valuation because of their highly sophisticated understanding of complex valuation issues. They provide great value to their clients as a result.’

‘An awesome team with great attorneys offering legal and strategic intellect. They are commercial, team-orientated, and totally reliable. My go-to US attorneys in this area (and others).’ 

‘David Molton is quite simply superb: head and shoulders, one of the best US attorneys I have worked with over the last 30 years in practice. He possesses a fabulous legal and strategic intellect.’ 

‘The lawyers at Brown Rudnick are responsive, practical and nimble.’

‘Very strong team, with a litigation first bent. They bring an intimidation into deals, often forcing counterparties into a settlement posture.’

‘Robert Stark and Jeff Jonas are the standouts. Stark is never short on words, either before adversaries, committee members or judges. He does not back away from a fight, and litigates toward a deal as well as anyone in the country. Jonas is a master in court, taking a good ol’ boy Boston-like approach and winning over judges and adversaries. He is a master trial lawyer, who happens to be a bankruptcy expert.’

‘Client service and communication are excellent.’ 

Key clients

Revlon, Inc.: Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors


LTL Management LLC (Johnson & Johnson): Official Committee of Talc Claimants


Washington Prime Group, Inc.: Official Committee of Equity Security Holders


Aearo Technologies (3M): Official Committee of Tort Claimants


Ruby Pipeline: Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors


Endo International: MDL Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee


Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals: MDL Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee


Purdue Pharma: MDL Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee


Basic Energy Services: Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors


Rockdale Marcellus: Reserve-Based Lenders


Cred Inc.: Examiner and Counsel to the Examiner


Boy Scouts of America: Coalition of Abused Scouts for Justice


Alpha LATAM: Ad Hoc Bondholders Committee


Ceruzzi Properties: Ad Hoc Creditors Committee


PG&E Fire Victim Trust: Trustee


Imerys Talc America: Ad Hoc Committee of Tort Claimants


Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico: Special Claims Committee


Work highlights


  • Representing the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Chapter 11 case of Revlon, one of the world’s leading cosmetics and beauty-products companies.
  • Representing the Official Committee of Tort Claimants in the Chapter 11 case of LTL Management.
  • Representing the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Chapter 11 case of Ruby Pipeline, the owner of a major 700 mile natural gas pipeline from Wyoming to Oregon.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Sean O’Neal, Lisa Schweitzer , and Richard Cooper lead Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s practice, which has established a strong reputation for handling airline restructurings in Latin America, also advising a wide variety of clients in multiple sectors in the US and Europe. O’Neal handles debtor- and creditor-side matters, especially in the retail, hospitality, energy, and financial products sectors. Schweitzer has considerable experience advising debtors, creditors, and strategic investors in connection with in- and out-of-court restructurings. Cooper specializes in cross-border restructurings involving companies in Latin America and other emerging markets, and, alongside Schweitzer, Luke Barefoot, and Jane VanLare, has recently led a team representing air carrier LATAM Airlines Group in its Chapter 11 reorganization. The practice has also represented Apollo Capital Management in relation to a senior secured superpriority multi-tranche debtor-in-possession term loan facility to Aeroméxico in its chapter 11 reorganization. Brandon Hammer and associate Hoori Kim are also key names in the practice. The practice operates principally out of New York, and all lawyers mentioned are based there.

Practice head(s):

Sean O’Neal; Lisa Schweitzer; Richard Cooper


Other key lawyers:

Brandon Hammer; Hoori Kim; Jane VanLare; Luke Barefoot;


Testimonials

‘Cleary brings big-firm breadth, capabilities and expertise while offering a client-centric quality of service. In particular, their ability to work effectively across practice areas (in my case, bankruptcy and real estate) compares very favorably with other firms.’

‘What I value most about the Cleary partners and associates with whom I have worked is the “roll up your sleeves”, no-attitude approach to driving outcomes. In contrast with my experiences with many other firms, there is limited “speechifying” and navigating strong personalities. They dispatch their responsibilities efficiently and with a solid technical understanding of the law while bringing creativity and thought leadership not always observed when working with big firms.’

Key clients

LATAM Airlines Group S.A.


PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk


Samarco Mineração S.A.


AES/Alto Maipo S.p.A.


Grupo Posadas


Goldman Sachs, J. Aron & Company


Apollo Capital Management


BBVA


Deutsche Bank


HSBC


Citibank


Credit Agricole


BNP Paribas


BNY Mellon


Credit Suisse


UBS


Korean Development Bank


Hana Bank


TD Bank


Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis


Work highlights


  • Represented LATAM Airlines Group S.A. and certain of its affiliates in the company’s exit from a first-of-its-kind cross-border debt restructuring before the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
  • Represented PT Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk in its restructuring of approximately $10 billion of its debt.
  • Represented AES/Alto Maipo S.p.A., a project subsidiary of AES, and certain of its affiliates in connection with a pre-arranged comprehensive Chapter 11 restructuring of its obligations in excess of $2.7 billion.

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP offers debtor- and creditor-side expertise and boasts a particularly strong reputation for representing lenders in relation to Chapter 11 bankruptcies. With experience representing a wide range of clients in high-profile restructurings both in and out of court, Scott Greenberg in New York chairs the practice. Greenberg, alongside Michael Cohen, also in New York, has recently led a team serving as restructuring counsel to an ad hoc group of first lien lenders to pharmaceutical company Mallinckrodt in connection with its Chapter 11 case. Matt Williams in New York is a key name, noted for his work for bondholders’ groups and indenture trustees, respectively. New York-based Joshua Brody‘s experience includes negotiating and litigating plans of reorganization and debtor-in-possession financings. Jason Goldstein in New York also stands out for his contribution. In May 2023 Joseph Zujkowski joined the firm’s New York office as partner from O'Melveny & Myers LLP. Robert Klyman left for DLA Piper LLP (US) in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Scott Greenberg


Other key lawyers:

Jason Goldstein; Jeffrey Krause; Joseph Zujkowski; Joshua Brody; Matt Williams; Michael Cohen


Key clients

Ad Hoc Group of Secured Lenders of Serta Simmons Bedding


Sequential Brands


Ad Hoc Group of Secured Lenders and Noteholders to Diamond Sports Group, LLC


Ad Hoc Group of First Lien Term Lenders to Mallinckrodt plc


Rosehill Resources Inc.


New Secured Lender to Talen Energy


AIG


Ad Hoc Group of Priority/First Lien Lenders to NPC International


Ad Hoc Group of First Lien Lenders to Garrett Motion Inc.


SES Americom


Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

Kenneth Eckstein and Thomas Mayer head the team at Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP, which represents a wide range of clients, including debtors, creditors, ad hoc groups, and creditors’ committees, in relation to major restructurings both in and out of court. The practice, led by Eckstein, Rachael Ringer, and Daniel Eggermann, has recently represented ad hoc committees of governmental plaintiffs in connection with the high-profile chapter 11 bankruptcies of pharmaceutical giants Purdue Pharma LP and Mallinckrodt. Moreover, Mayer and Amy Caton have led a team advising the official committee of unsecured creditors  in relation to the chapter 11 case of Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. In 2022 the firm acquired Washington, D.C. litigation boutique Robbins, Russell, Englert, Orseck & Untereiner LLP, including Roy Englert, who brings significant restructuring litigation expertise.

Practice head(s):

Kenneth Eckstein; Thomas Mayer


Other key lawyers:

Amy Caton; Daniel Eggerman; Rachael Ringer; Roy Englert


Testimonials

‘The team was very good in pushing our case forward.’ 

‘Ken Eckstein was able to use his connections to close out issues, which was exceedingly valuable.’ 

‘Rachael Ringer did a fabulous job as a younger partner in keeping a highly complex, contentious and litigious case on track.’

Key clients

Ad Hoc Committee in connection with Purdue Pharma LP’s bankruptcy


Ad Hoc Committee of Governmental Plaintiffs in the Mallinckrodt plc bankruptcy


Parent Ad Hoc Claimant Group of LATAM Airlines


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of the Boy Scouts of America


Ad Hoc Group of Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) Bondholders and other Puerto Rico bondholders


Trustee for notes issued to fund CalPlant 1, LLC


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Eagle Hospitality Real Estate Investment Trust


Maryland Purple Line


Benefit Street Partners in connection with The Williamsburg Hotel


Endo Pharmaceuticals Creditors’ Committee


Work highlights


  • Representing the Ad Hoc Committee (AHC) of 10 state attorneys general, six municipalities, the Plaintiffs Executive Committee in the multidistrict litigation and a federally recognized Native American Tribe in the bankruptcy cases of Purdue Pharma.
  • Represented the Ad Hoc Committee (AHC) of seven states’ attorneys general and the Plaintiffs Executive Committee in connection with the bankruptcy of Mallinckrodt plc.
  • Represented a large group of funds holding over $5.5 billion in face amount of unsecured claims against LATAM Airlines.

Paul Hastings LLP

Paul Hastings LLP offers debtor-side, committee-side, and bank-side expertise in connection with a wide range of restructuring and insolvency matters both in and out of court, including debtor-in-possession financing and exit financing transactions. New York-based Kristopher Hansen handles major matters, particularly in the energy sector, and has considerable experience advising debtors, strategic investors, formal and informal creditor groups, and official creditors’ committees. He chairs the practice alongside Luc Despins, also in New York, who has debtor- and creditor-side expertise. Hansen has recently led a team representing unsecured creditor Sandy Creek Energy Associates in relation to the multibillion dollar bankruptcy case of Brazos Electric Power Cooperative Inc., involving a dual track expedited litigation and mediation with the debtor. Daniel Fliman in New York has led a team representing an ad hoc group of convertible noteholders issued by satellite and communications company Intelsat, in connection with its high-profile Chapter 11 case. Jayme Goldstein in New York and Matt Murphy in Chicago stand out for their contributions in the financial services and fintech sectors, respectively. Jonathan Canfield specializes in energy sector reorganizations.

Practice head(s):

Kristopher Hansen; Luc Despins


Other key lawyers:

Daniel Fliman; Jayme Goldstein; Jonathan Canfield; Matt Murphy; Pedro Jimenez; Erez Gilad; Todd Schwartz


Testimonials

‘Paul Hastings is quicker than its peers. The firm deals with cross holder, term loan only, unsecured only, etc. structures which differentiates them when it comes to creatively thinking of solutions, and coming out first when there is lender-on-lender violence. The company is steadfast in gathering and synthesizing information with other lenders and financial advisors, so hits the ground running fast, which is importantly especially in adversarial situations. Thankfully as a result we have been able to have favorable outcomes in negotiations.’

‘Jayme Goldstein has his ears to the ground and is creative so can cut through any situation and he is quick. I wouldn’t want be on the other side. He is also very easy to work with and very practical in his recommendations. He has a good handle on the business implications of various legal paths.’

‘Pedro Jiménez and his team were always available, knew both the big picture and the details of the case and provided tranquility within turmoil. They explained clearly the issues to the local bondholders. Pedro has a great strategic vision and wisdom beyond his age.’

Key clients

Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Employees Retirement System of the Government of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority, and Puerto Rico Electronic Power Authority.


Ad Hoc Group of Noteholders of Carlson Travel


Sandy Creek Energy Associates


Ad Hoc Group of Convertible Noteholders of Intelsat


Ad Hoc Group ofSecured NoteholdersofAvianca Holdings


Ad Hoc Group of Noteholders of TPC Group


MIE Holdings


Ad Hoc Group of Lenders to Travelport


Banco del Estado de Chile


Ad Hoc Group of Noteholders of Boardriders


Ad Hoc Group of Claimholders against TLA / LATAM Airlines


American Industrial Partners


Ad Hoc Group of First Lien Lenders to Output Services Group


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of GBG USA


Armstrong World Industries


Jefferies Finance


Acquiom Agency Services


Work highlights


  • Representing Sandy Creek Energy Associates, as one of the largest unsecured creditors, in connection with Brazos Electric Power Cooperative’s high-profile USD5+ billion bankruptcy.
  • Representing Voyager Digital in respect of its USD660 million exposure to cryptocurrency hedge fund Three Arrows Capital.
  • Representing an ad hoc group of convertible noteholders in connection with the USD14.6+ billion bankruptcy of Intelset, a multinational satellite and communications company.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has a strong reputation for its debtor-side expertise in connection with Chapter 11 filings as well as prepackaged bankruptcies, also advising lenders, creditors, distressed asset acquirers, and other interested parties on a wide range of domestic and cross-border restructuring matters. With considerable experience advising debtors, banks, distressed investors and investment funds, noteholder committees, and official creditors’ committees in relation to complex corporate workouts and restructurings, Paul Leake in New York heads the practice, while Chicago-based George Panagakis acts as deputy practice leader. Notably, Leake, alongside Lisa Laukitis and Shana Elberg, also both in New York, has recently led a team representing multinational pharmaceutical company Endo International in its high-profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Laukitis is also noted for her experience representing corporations, secured and unsecured creditors, and private equity funds.

Practice head(s):

Paul Leake; George Panagakis


Other key lawyers:

Carl Tullson; Lisa Laukitis; Ron Meisler; Shana Elberg


Key clients

Endo International


Work highlights


Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP’s business reorganization and restructuring practice, led by Rachel Strickland, is well known for representing debtors and distressed companies, strategic investors, ad hoc groups, and bondholder and lender committees in relation to all aspects of in- and out-of-court restructurings. Brett Miller is a key name for his creditors’ rights practice, recently leading teams representing the official committees of unsecured creditors in several major chapter 11 reorganizations, including of airlines SAS AB, Grupo Aeromexico, and Avianca Holdings S.A. Chairman of the firm Matthew Feldman has considerable experience in complex restructurings and has notably led a team representing Attestor Limited, on behalf of itself and Humana, Inc as insurance claimant in relation to the high-profile Chapter 11 case of Mallinckrodt. Strickland focuses on advising distressed companies and distressed asset investors. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York. Paul Shalhoub has retired.

Practice head(s):

Rachel Strickland


Other key lawyers:

Matthew Feldman; Brett Miller; Melainie Mansfield


Testimonials

‘The Willkie team is very creative in developing commercial solutions for us across a range of complex matters. And they are always available to us 24/7 to manage issues that are time-sensitive.’

‘Melainie Mansfield is our primary contact at Willkie Farr and is the point person for us on all matters, including those which extend beyond restructuring. She is effective at corralling resources for us across the firm, including in areas such as tax, litigation and employment law matters.’

‘The knowledge of our Willkie team is unsurpassed.’

‘They identify key issues quickly and often in advance of them becoming issues. Always come with thoughtful solutions. Quick to recommend other firms if the project cannot be provided cost-effectively by Willkie.’

Key clients

GBG USA Inc.


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Grupo Aeromexico


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Avianca Holdings S.A.


Official Committee of Tort Claimants in Imerys Talc America, Inc.


Ad hoc group of Hertz Senior Noteholders


Paper Source Inc.


Attestor Limited / Humana, Inc.


Special Committee of Intelsat Connect Finance S.A.


GenapSys, Inc.


Ad hoc Group of Secured Senior Noteholders and DIP Lenders of Sanchez Energy


Ad hoc Bondholder Group of Ahern Rentals


Ad hoc Group of Unsecured Bondholders of Cooper Standard Automotive


SL Green


J.P Morgan


Mesquite Energy


The North American Refractories Company Asbestos Personal Injury Settlements


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of SAS AB


Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Led by Natasha Labovitz and Sidney Levinson, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP’s restructuring practice represents a wide range of clients, including debtors, bondholders, secured lenders, and private equity sponsors, in relation to restructurings both in and out of court. Labovitz specializes in advising private equity firms, fund investors, and portfolio companies on domestic and cross-border bankruptcy and insolvency matters, while Levinson has represented major clients such as The Blackstone Group and Oaktree Capital Management. Notably, a cross-practice team, led by Jasmine Ball, has recently represented certain former directors and shareholders of Purdue Pharma, Inc., in connection with its high-profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Scott Selinger and Erica Weisgerber also stand out for their contributions, especially in relation to distressed acquisitions and investment, and bankruptcy litigation, respectively. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.


Practice head(s):

Natasha Labovitz; Sidney Levinson


Other key lawyers:

Erica Weisgerber; Jasmine Ball; Scott Selinger


Testimonials

‘Jasmine Ball and her team are very, very good at what they do. It was a pleasure to work with them.’

‘Their knowledge and experience of navigating the Ch11 process was key. We embarked on a cross-border restructuring, which was a first for a Philippine company. Moreover, we decided to pursue a pre-arranged process so collaboration was key amongst our Philippine and aircraft counsels, financial advisers, our restructuring team and D&P. They prepared us well even providing support through the administrative and filing requirements that helped us save on additional consulting costs. They made sure we covered all bases to give us a shot at an abbreviated stay in Ch11. In fact, it took us a little under 4 months to emerge. The judge commended the whole process in the 4-5 hearings conducted.’

‘They have deep knowledge of the Ch11 process and listen to their clients and other advisors. Jasmine Ball led her outstanding team well.’ 

‘We really appreciate the breadth of practice experience the firm brings….they can pull in experts all over the world to help with global issues.’

‘The team is incredibly responsive, practical and smart. Not only are they great lawyers, I personally enjoy working with them.’

Key clients

Alexander Greensill and additional former directors and officers of Greensill Capital Inc.


The Blackstone Group


Brigade Capital Management, LP


Clayton, Dubilier & Rice


Coller Capital Partners


Crescent Capital Group


The D. E. Shaw Group


Georgia-Pacific LLC


McKinsey & Company


Renfro Corporation


Pantheon Ventures


Philippine Airlines


Certain former directors and shareholders of Purdue Pharma, Inc. and related entities


Dechert LLP

With experience representing bank groups, unsecured creditors’ committees, bondholders, acquirers, and debtors, Allan Brilliant in New York chairs Dechert LLP’s global financial restructuring practice, which is best known for representing ad hoc and official creditors’ committees in relation to mid-to-large-scale and complex restructurings both in and out of court. Brilliant has recently led a team representing the official committee of unsecured creditors in connection with the Chapter 11 case of LATAM Airlines. Craig Druehl focuses on advising ad hoc groups and official committees and played an important role in both cases.

Practice head(s):

Allan Brilliant


Other key lawyers:

Craig Druehl; Stephen Zide


Testimonials

‘World class cross-border restructuring expertise.’ 

‘Allan Brilliant is unparalleled in this area.’ 

‘Stephen Zide is a fantastic lawyer: he is innovative and understands the full picture with all of its intricacies. He is a great communicator, responsive and overall a pleasure to work with.’ 

‘This is an outstanding team, able to provide clever and fast solutions to complex situations in many different jurisdictions.

Key clients

The Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of LATAM Airlines Group


Alden Global Capital


Citadel


Davidson Kempner


Elliott Associates


Monarch Alternative Capital LP


State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company


CarVal


Bain Capital


Hilco


Hidili


Contrarian


Argentum


VR Capital


Stonehill Capital


Dolphin Drilling


Riverstone


Genie Energy


MBIA Noteholders


Work highlights


  • Represented the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Chapter 11 cases of LATAM Airlines and its affiliates.
  • Represented Citadel in connection with several phases of the complex cross-border restructuring of Colombian airline Avianca Holdings.
  • Represented the foreign representative of Hidili Industry International Development Limited (“Hidili”) in a chapter 15 case filed with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.

Jones Day

With considerable experience advising debtors, creditors’ committees, prepetition secured lenders, and DIP lenders, New York- and Cleveland-based Heather Lennox heads Jones Day’s business restructuring and reorganization practice, which has a strong reputation for representing debtors, official committees, shareholders, and asset purchasers in relation to high-profile bankruptcies. Bruce Bennett in Los Angeles represented the largest creditor constituency, namely the Jackson Crossover Group, in the Chapter 11 case of commercial satellite provider, Intelsat S.A., as well as LTL Management LLC, in its major Chapter 11 bankruptcy, a case which saw key roles for Gregory Gordon and Dan Prieto in Dallas, alongside Brad Erens in Chicago. Bennett has extensive experience in several industries, including retail, media, telecommunications, aviation, insurance, and technology. Corinne Ball in New York has extensive experience in in- and out-of-court reorganizations and distressed acquisitions.

Practice head(s):

Heather Lennox


Other key lawyers:

Brad Erens; Bruce Bennett; Carl Black; Corinne Ball; Dan Prieto; Gregory Gordon; Matthew Kairis


Testimonials

‘Jones Day is willing to tackle complicated issues head on and see things through to conclusion, even if that means prosecuting litigations that other firms would shy away from.’

‘Bruce Bennett is a highly skilled bankruptcy litigator and experienced deal maker. Unlike some of his peers, he is not afraid to assess probabilities and share them with investors .’

Key clients

Diocese of Rockville Centre


Intelsat Jackson Crossover Ad Hoc Group


LTL Management LLC, an affiliate of Johnson & Johnson


DMBP


MF Global Holdings Ltd., as Plan Administrator


Fidelity Management and Research Company and other secured creditors of Sanchez Energy Corporation (n/k/a Mesquite Energy Corporation)


Aldrich Pump LLC and Murray Boiler LLC


Boeing


Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC (Brazos Electric Cooperative, Inc. Bankruptcy)


Work highlights


  • Represented the largest creditor constituency in the highly complex Chapter 11 cases of Intelsat.
  • Represented LTL Management LLC, an affiliate of Johnson & Johnson, in its Chapter 11 case.

Morrison Foerster

Jennifer Marines and Lorenzo Marinuzzi  head Morrison Foerster’s business restructuring and insolvency group, which is well known for representing companies in relation to Chapter 11 cases and out-of-court restructurings as well as for its expertise in distressed real estate matters. Marines is vice chair of the firm and has considerable experience representing debtors, creditors, and investors, while Marinuzzi has experience in bankruptcy cases, workouts, and litigation matters in multiple sectors, including airline and cargo transportation, mortgage origination and servicing, banking and finance, and telecommunications. Theresa Foudy is another key name in the team, while James Peck leads on cross-border restructurings. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.


Practice head(s):

Jennifer Marines; Lorenzo Marinuzzi


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Butterfield; James Peck; Seth Kleinman; Theresa Foudy


Testimonials

‘Former Judge Peck is a go to mediator, and is surrounded by smart and capable lawyers. Some of the younger partners, including Seth Kleinman and Jennifer Marines, are developing a reputation for creditor side and committee work.’

‘The firm has a strong reputation and has played unique roles in major restructurings during the past decade. I recently worked closely with them following the failure of Archegos Fund. The firm was called upon to analyze the complex claims and legal defenses of all parties and try to forge an out-of-court settlement of this major financial failure. They were able to get the confidence of all parties and succeed against difficult odds.’

‘Retired Bankruptcy Judge James Peck is a star. He brings gravitas to any situation in which he is involved and sees deeper into the real dynamics of the situation than others are able. He has built a terrific practice for the firm in acting as a leader in resolving complex financial disputes.’

‘Judge Peck is a strong, activist mediator who knows the whole bar and is able to advance cases to resolution Seth Kleinman is nimble and commercial, advising creditors and creditor groups, while Jennifer Marines is driven and a good advocate for her clients.’ 

‘Excellent at committee representations and providing clear and concise advice.’

‘Theresa Foudy is a stand out litigator in the bankruptcy space. She is practical and smart.’ 

Key clients

CalPlant I Holdco, LLC and CalPlant I, LLC


United Parcel Service, Inc. (together with its affiliates and subsidiaries) (“UPS”)


Columbia Pulp I, LLC


Ad hoc group of holders of debt issued or guaranteed by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico


Great Value Storage


Official committee of unsecured creditors of Grupo Aeroméxico, S.A.B. de C.V. and its affiliated debtors


AeroCentury


Gulf Coast Health Care


Sears Holdings Corp.


MatlinPatterson Global Advisers LLC


Revolutions Foods, PBC


VMware, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Representing CalPlant I Holdco, LLC and CalPlant I, LLC in their chapter 11 cases in the Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
  • Represented secured creditors holding over $380 million in debt in the Chapter 11 cases of Great Value Storage and prosecuted numerous contested matters, including a motion to appoint a Chapter 11 trustee in the Northern District of Texas Bankruptcy court.

Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP

Richard Pachulski and James Stang in Los Angeles, Robert Feinstein in New York, Laura Davis Jones in Delaware, and Bradford Sandler in both Delaware and New York, head corporate restructuring boutique Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP, which has a strong reputation for representing a wide range of clients, including debtors, unsecured creditors’ committees, special interest committees, and asset purchasers, in relation to complex in- and out-of-court restructuring matters. Notably, the firm has recently represented the Arnold & Itkin claimant group in the high-profile Chapter 11 case of LTL Management, and was debtor counsel in the Chapter 11 bankruptcy of Highland Capital Management. Pachulski is a standout lawyer and led on the latter case, alongside Los Angeles-based Jeffrey Pomerantz. Stang, specializes in representing official creditors’ committees in bankruptcy cases involving sexual abuse, while Davis Jones is highly respected for her work in relation to chapter 11 proceedings and workouts.

Practice head(s):

Richard Pachulski; James Stang; Robert Feinstein; Laura Davis Jones; Bradford Sandler


Other key lawyers:

Jeffrey Pomerantz


Key clients

Cineworld Group PLC Creditors’ Committee


LTL Management LLC Arnold & Itkin Claimant Group


The Boy Scouts of America Tort Claimants’ Committee


Highland Capital Management LP


Tuesday Morning Equity Committee


Circuit City Liquidating Trustee


Rockdale Marcellus LLC


Corsicana Bedding LLC Creditors’ Committee


Watsonville Hospital Corporation


USA Gymnastics Creditors’ Committee


Sungard AS New Holdings LLC Creditors’ Committee


Aurelius Capital Management LP


Sequential Brands Group, Inc.


Riverbed Technology, Inc.


Agilon Energy Holdings II LLC Creditors’ Committee


Committees of survivors of clergy abuse in Catholic diocese chapter 11 cases (Rochester, Buffalo, Rockville Centre, New Orleans, Santa Fe)


TPC Group, Inc. Ad Hoc Non-Consenting Bondholder Group


First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation


Rochester Drug Co-Operative, Inc. Creditors’ Committee


Agway Farm & Home Supply, LLC Creditors’ Committee


Work highlights


  • Represented the Arnold & Itkin Claimant Group in the Chapter 11 case of LTL Management.
  • Representing the tort claimants’ committee for the Boy Scouts of America.
  • Represented Dallas-based investment advisor Highland Capital Management LP.

Proskauer Rose LLP

New York-based Martin Bienenstock, who has considerable experience advising creditors’ committees, and Chicago-based Jeff Marwil, who is well known for restructuring both publicly-traded and privately-held companies’ complex capital structures, head the team at Proskauer Rose LLP, which represents debtors, creditors, and other interested parties in relation to a wide range of matters both in and out of court and has an especially strong reputation for advising multi-tranche lenders in workouts, restructurings, foreclosures transactions, and chapter 11 cases. David Hillman in New York and Charles Dale in Boston recently led a team representing a group of private credit lenders, including Carlyle and Blackrock in relation to the Chapter 11 cases of Sungard .Vincent Indelicato and Andrew Bettwy in New York, alongside Los Angeles-based Sandra Montgomery, are go-to names for complex private-equity backed restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Martin Bienenstock; Jeff Marwil


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Bettwy; Charles Dale; David Hillman; Ehud Barak; Sandra Montgomery; Timothy Karcher; Vincent Indelicato


Testimonials

‘The team has an exceptional complement of skills. Martin Bienenstock has the best technical competency in the business and is an extraordinarily creative lawyer. His partner, Ehud Barak while also having strong legal skills understands his clients and works very well with all people. They are a great combination along with the rest of Proskauer’s deep restructuring team.’

‘Ehud Barak takes the time to educate his clients. It’s easy to work with secured creditors who understand the law. He is exceptional with debtors and others who do not have restructuring expertise. After making sure they understand the law, he also works with them to make sure they understand ramifications to the employees, owners and all other parties. He brings the right resources to play and makes sure it is all client serving.’ 

‘Martin Bienenstock is brilliant. He seems to have the best legal mind in the business.’

‘The creativity in generating edge through deep experience and technical know-how is an X factor Proskauer can bring. Often times, that is the difference between a win or a loss or a structuring benefit which makes the deal a true success. We trust Proskauer and their exceptional team to advise us across opportunities.’

‘Martin Bienenstock and Timothy Karcher went above and beyond for my firm on numerous occasions. They worked tirelessly to support our acquisition of vessels in a 363 sale and through countless complex capital structures. Their experience and tactics helped position our firm to win. They took a personal stake in our success and have always worked with us to be economical in our pursuits. We are lucky to have them in our corner.’

Key clients

Ad hoc group of private credit lenders (Arbour Lane, Carlyle, Blackrock, FS/KKR)


Ad hoc group of second-out first lien lenders (Morgan Stanley, Investcorp, Ellington)


Anton Corp.


Apollo Investment Management LLP


Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.


Financial Oversight and Management Board For Puerto Rico


Glendon Capital Management L.P.


KKR Credit Advisors


Planet Hollywood


Earl Enterprises, Inc.


Sound Point Capital Management, L.P.


MGG Investment Group


Ocala Funding, LLC


Work highlights


  • Representing a group of private credit lenders (Arbour Lane, Carlyle, Blackrock and KKR) holding secured claims in excess of $300 million in the Chapter 11 cases of Sungard AS and its affiliates
  • Representing Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. and Bayside Capital, Inc. in the Chapter 11 cases of TPC Group, Inc. and its affiliates.

Ropes & Gray LLP

With experience advising debtors and creditors’ committees, New York-based Gregg Galardi and recently elevated New York- and Chicago-based Ryan Dahl, well known for advising debtors and distressed investors, jointly head Ropes & Gray LLP’s business restructuring practice, which represents a variety of borrower, lender, and creditor clients, including large and middle market companies, ad hoc creditor committees, indenture trustees, and litigation parties, in relation to restructurings, reorganizations, and liability management transactions both in and out of court. Galardi has recently led a team, alongside Andrew Devore in Boston, representing Vewd Software AS as debtor in connection with its multijurisdictional pre-packaged Chapter 11 reorganization.

Practice head(s):

Gregg Galardi; Ryan Dahl


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Devore; Benjamin Rhode; Cristine Schwarzman; Mark Somerstein; Matthew Roose;


Testimonials

‘The core team we work with knows us well, is skilled and experienced, and has effectively drawn on their colleagues. They are well networked among US restructuring professionals. They have supported us on significant matters outside of the US. They work efficiently, guiding us on the key decisions we need to make.’

‘Mark Somerstein is our primary contact. The people he works with at my firm are primary not lawyers in a niche area of banking. Mark is easy to work with. He understands our business and is able to think things through from our perspective. This is reflected in efficiently guiding us through understanding risks and options and decision making. I know we’re well represented by Mark and his colleagues.’

‘Ryan Dahl is extremely smart and pragmatic. He is a creative problem solver who not only tells what can’t be done, but knows how to accomplish the goal and tells you how. He has large complex matter expertise which is invaluable, but also brings that perspective to middle market situations where much sophistication is usually lacking.’

Key clients

OSG Group Holdings, Inc.


Vewd Software AS


Beautyge II LLC (Revlon)


Ion Geophysical


Ad Hoc Group of K&N Engineering First Lien Term Lenders


Ad Hoc Group of Yak Access Second Lien Term Lenders


Ad Hoc Group of Exela Technologies Inc.


Indentures Trustee Matters


Bankruptcy Litigation Matters


Vesta Holdings, LLC


CHC Helicopter


PlayMonster LLC


Work highlights


  • Represented Output Services Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries in connection with negotiations with lenders under its first and second lien credit facilities.
  • Represented Vewd Software AS in connection with their pre-packaged Chapter 11 cases.
  • Representing the 13 “BrandCo” Debtors in the Chapter 11 megacase filed in mid-June by Revlon, Inc.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Sandeep Qusba and Michael Torkin head Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP’s restructuring practice, which has a strong reputation for representing senior lenders in chapter 11 cases and out-of-court restructurings, but also advises debtors, creditor committees, equity sponsors, distressed asset investors, and agent banks in relation to various types of restructurings and bankruptcies. Qusba handles restructurings in and out of court, as well as distressed company acquisitions and bank financings, and, alongside Nicholas Baker, has recently led a team representing Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase Bank as agents in connection with LATAM Airline Group’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Torkin specializes in representing companies in relation to liability management and recapitalization transactions, while Elisha Graff has experience advising equity sponsors on the restructuring of their portfolio companies and financial institutions on loans to distressed companies. Sunny Singh joined in March 2023. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.

Practice head(s):

Sandeep Qusba; Michael Torkin


Other key lawyers:

Elisha Graff; Nicholas Baker; Sunny Singh


Testimonials

‘Nick Baker is a rising star in the restructuring practice. Unlike so many competitors in the industry, he seems fully invested in every assignment he takes on and leaves no stone unturned to identify and address client’s concerns and goals.’ 

‘Highly pragmatic, commercial team that is quickly able to grasp and advocate for their clients’ interests.’

Key clients

Angelo Gordon


Apax Partners


Apollo


ARM Energy Holdings


Arsenal Resources


Ascribe Capital


Bank of Montreal


Bausch Health


Blackstone


Centerbridge Partners


Corp Group Banking S.A.


Crane Holdings, Co.


First Reserve


Francisco Partners


G-III Apparel Group, Ltd.


Goldman Sachs


GSO Capital Partners


JPMorgan Chase & Co.


Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.


MatlinPatterson


Morgan Stanley Capital Administrators Inc.


Primavera Capital


PSP Investments


Pyxus International Inc.


Riverstone Holdings


Royal Bank of Canada


Silver Lake Partners


Solus Alternative Asset Management


Sterling Organization


Syncreon


TNT Crane & Rigging


Wells Fargo Bank


Work highlights


  • Represented Corp Group Banking S.A. and certain of its affiliates in their Chapter 11 cases.
  • Represented Goldman Sachs Lending Partners LLC, as administrative agent, joint lead arranger and joint bookrunner under LATAM’s $750 million senior secured debtor-in-possession and exit term loan facility, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, joint lead arranger and joint bookrunner under LATAM’s $500 million senior secured debtor-in-possession and exit revolving credit facility and certain bridge facilities.
  • Represented MatlinPatterson Global Opportunities Partners II L.P as debtors in a Chapter 11 filing.

Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz

With considerable experience advising major clients, Richard Mason heads the team at Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katzwhich has a strong reputation for advising debtors in mass tort bankruptcies, sponsors and borrowers in relation to liability management and special situation matters, and elite distressed investors and groups concerning distressed investments. John Sobolewski specializes in representing corporate borrowers and sponsors, and recently led a team advising Mitel Networks Corporation and its private equity sponsor Searchlight Capital in relation to Mitel’s out-of-court financial restructuringm while Joshua Feltman is a standout figure and focuses on acquisitions of leveraged entities in in- and out-of-court workouts and on the financing aspects of leveraged acquisitions generally. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.

Practice head(s):

Richard Mason


Other key lawyers:

Alexander Miles; David Sheinfeld; Elyssa Eisenberg; Emil Kleinhaus; John Sobolewski; Joshua Feltman; Michael Benn


Key clients

Mitel Networks Corporation


Mallinckrodt plc


Angelo, Gordon & Co., LP


Intralot SA


Freeport-McMoRan Inc.


Ad Hoc Committee of Local Councils of Boy Scouts of America


Cueto Group and Eblen Group (major stockholders of LATAM)


Noteholders to Trilogy International Partners (affiliates of Capital Research and Management Company, Brigade Capital Management, LP and Benefit Street Partners L.L.C.)


Ad Hoc Group of Altera Infrastructure LP unsecured noteholders


Metropolitan Commercial Bank


Lenders to TriMark (affiliates of Ares Capital Management LLC, Oaktree Capital Management, BlackRock, Inc., and Sculptor Capital Management)


ConocoPhillips


Lenders to Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority


Hebrew University, Bar Ilan, Weizmann Institute, Ben-Gurion


Ares Management LLC and VMO Aircraft Leasing, LP


SelectQuote, Inc.


MacAndrews & Forbes Holdings, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised Mitel Networks Corporation on its out-of-court restructuring.
  • Advised Freeport-McMoRan Inc. in the Chapter 11 case of its indirect subsidiary, Cyprus Mines Corporation.
  • Advised Angelo Gordon & Co as a new-money lender to Envision Healthcare Corporation.

Arnold & Porter

With experience advising lenders, bondholders, agents, indenture trustees, hedge funds, and borrowers in relation to distressed situations, workouts, and bankruptcy proceedings throughout the US, Chicago-based Michael Messersmith heads Arnold & Porter’s bankruptcy and restructuring practice, which has recently been involved in several major Chapter 11 cases and is best known for its lender-side work. Brian Lohan in Chicago plays an important role in the team and has been involved in a range of complex bankruptcy proceedings across sectors, while Tyler Nurnberg is managing partner of the firm’s Chicago office and has recently represented BP in connection with a number of bankruptcy proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Michael Messersmith


Other key lawyers:

Alan Gantz; Brian Lohan; Maja Fink; Michael Bernstein; Sarah Gryll; Tyler Nurnberg


Key clients

Eaton Vance


Invesco


Avenue Capital Group


AT&T


UMB Bank, N.A.


Nuveen Asset Management


Voya Investment Management


BP


Wilmington Trust


Bardin Hill


Former CEO of Essar Steel Minnesota (Madhu Vuppuluri)


Republic of Colombia


Atlantic Security Bank


Ares Capital Corporation


Honeywell International Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised an ad hoc group of lenders of Cineworld Group, the world’s second-largest cinema chain, in connection with the restructuring of over $4 billion in prepetition secured debt, as well as in connection with providing approximately $2 billion of new capital for DIP Financing.
  • Advised BP in connection with a number of large bankruptcy proceedings, most recently McDermott International (SD Tex) and Limetree Bay Refining (SD Tex – pending).
  • Advised an ad hoc group of 20+ first lien lenders under a senior secured term and revolving credit facility with more than $1Bn outstanding in the Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases of The Hertz Corporation and 29 subsidiaries and affiliates.

Hogan Lovells US LLP

Hogan Lovells US LLP represents companies, lenders, sponsors, creditors, distressed asset purchasers, and noteholders in relation to all aspects of restructurings both in and out of court. Christopher Donoho in New York is global head of the practice, while Ronald Silverman in New York and Richard Wynne in Los Angeles jointly chair the US group. Donoho has experience handling debtor- and creditor-side mandates, Silverman specialises in chapter 15 bankruptcy cases, and Wynne has experience in a variety of sectors, including entertainment, telecommunications, insurance, and financial services, having represented Mattel as unsecured creditor in the Toys “R” Us Chapter 11 case. Erin Brady in Los Angeles played a key role in the Mattel case and also stands out for her work in the life sciences sector.

Practice head(s):

Christopher Donoho; Ronald Silverman; Richard Wynne


Other key lawyers:

David Simonds; Erin Brady; Jennifer Lee; John Beck


Testimonials

‘I have worked extensively with the restructuring and insolvency group at Hogan Lovells. The team that I have worked with consists of Ron Silverman (partner, New York) David Simonds (partner Los Angeles), John Beck (partner New York) and Jennifer Lee (associate New York). They are very knowledgeable and creative lawyers and do an outstanding job for their clients.’

‘Ron Silverman is an outstanding strategist. David Simonds is very good as well. John Beck is the member of the team that just gets things done. Jennifer Lee has tremendous organizational skills. They really work well together as a team.’

Key clients

TRU/Mattel Inc.


The Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Chapter 11 cases of Speedcast International Limited, et al.


Madison Pacific as agent under the China Fishery Club Loan Agreement


Athyrium Capital Management


Subsidiaries of TC Energy Corporation (Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC; Columbia Gulf Transmission, LLC; ANR Pipeline


Company)


Work highlights


Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP

Led by Kathryn Coleman and Christopher Kiplok in New York, Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP  specializes in advising in relation to insolvencies in the financial services sector but also represents clients from the aviation, commodities, energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and tech sectors, among others, on a wide range of restructuring-related matters. Coleman has considerable experience representing debtors, DIP lenders, equity sponsors, unsecured creditors, and strategic buyers in relation to both in- and out-of-court restructurings. Kiplok has been active in the mass torts space and has an excellent reputation for his financial litigation expertise. A multidisciplinary team, led by Coleman, has recently advised Delta Air Lines in its capacity as strategic partner and equity investor in the Chapter 11 restructuring of Grupo Aeroméxico, while Kiplock has led the practice’s representation of multibillion dollar French mining company Imerys S.A., in connection with the Chapter 11 filings of its three indirect subsidiaries concerning their talc-related liabilities in the US.


Practice head(s):

Kathryn Coleman; Christopher Kiplok


Other key lawyers:

Anson Frelinghuysen; Elizabeth Beitler; Erin Diers; James Fitzpatrick; Jeffrey Margolin; John McGoey


Testimonials

‘The lawyers at HHR have performed exceptionally in their roles as advisors, litigators, and overall experts. The team has approached numerous novel and sophisticated issues and achieved exceptional results in state, bankruptcy, and federal courts of all levels domestically and abroad. They have concluded all work-streams efficiently and expeditiously. The team works collaboratively respecting the underlying interests and needs of the clients. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone.’

‘The individual lawyers are not only bright, but also personable and a pleasure to work with.’ 

‘Chris Kiplok has been a trusted advisor and adeptly managed teams of lawyers on varying issues achieving optimal results.’ 

‘Jeff Margolin provides information quickly that few others would be able to glean given unlimited time.’

‘Anson Frelinghuysen, Jim Fitzpatrick, John McGoey, and Elizabeth Beitler have all been invaluable on a variety of matters.’

‘Erin Diers was wonderful in bringing me up to speed on a matter I took over for my company from a predecessor – I felt confident in her legal knowledge and in her guidance in a subject matter that was far from my usual areas of coverage.’ 

Key clients

Delta Air Lines


Imerys SA


Lehman Brothers Inc


Eagle-Picher Trust


Candriam Worldwide Alternative (f/k/a Dexia)


Air France, KLM and Barfield


Wells Fargo


MF Global


Univision


AAKB Investments Limited


Work highlights


  • Assisted Delta Air Lines in the Chapter 11 restructuring of Grupo Aeroméxico.
  • Represents Imerys SA, a French multibillion-dollar mining company, in connection with the 2019 Chapter 11 Filing.
  • Represented Lehman Brothers in a fiduciary capacity representing the Trustee in the liquidation of the largest broker dealer ever to fail.

Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP

David Rosner heads Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP’s bankruptcy litigation and restructuring practice, which is well known for its courtroom litigation expertise. The practice has recently represented an ad hoc group of first lien term loan lenders of multibillion dollar healthcare company Envision Healthcare in connection with its ‘liquidity management’ transaction, a key involvement for senior practitioners Marc Kasowitz and Matthew Stein. Kasowitz is a leading trial lawyer, while Stein represents a wide range of clients, including debtors, creditors, statutory and ad hoc committees, indenture trustees, and private equity funds, in connection with complex restructurings, reorganizations, and liquidation proceedings and specializes in litigation arising from distressed situations and leveraged buyouts. Moreover, having joined from Allen & Overy LLP in June 2022, Ken Coleman brings impressive experience in multijurisdictional reorganizations and restructurings. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.

Practice head(s):

David Rosner


Other key lawyers:

Ken Coleman; Marc Kasowitz; Matthew Stein; Paul Burgo; Ronald Rossi


Testimonials

‘Bright, dynamic lawyers with command of the law but also good business acumen.’

‘Paul Burgo, Ron Rossi, and David Rosner are excellent.’

Key clients

ACA Financial Guaranty


Ad Hoc Group of First Lien Term Lenders of Envision Healthcare


Ad Hoc Group of noteholders in China Fishery


Aman Group Resorts


Columbia Property Trust and its affiliates 880 Broadway Owner and 880 Broadway Tenant


Contrarian Capital Management


Cyrus Capital Partners


Cyprus Mines


Howard Meyers


Law Debenture Trust Company of New York (Tribune bankruptcy)


MDC Energy


Official Committee of Equity Security Holders of Garrett Motion


Kevin Nystrom, in his capacity as the Litigation Trustee for the UC Litigation Trust for Essar Steel Minnesota


Mudrick Capital Management


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of TriVascular Sales


Pasig


Renco Group


Robert Gans


Salvatore Lamonica, Chapter 7 Trustee in CIL Limited bankruptcy


Second lien term lenders of Fieldwood Energy, a major offshore oil producer


Strategic Value Partners


USAVflow Limited


Waterfall Asset Management


Work highlights


  • Represented an ad hoc group of first lien term loan lenders of Envision Healthcare, a multi-billion dollar healthcare company, in connection with the company’s “liquidity management” transaction.
  • Representing in the representation of MDC Energy, the oil and gas subsidiary of MTE, in its high profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy case.
  • Represented the senior noteholders in the complex, cross-border bankruptcy of China Fishery Group Limited and its affiliates, which has been widely covered in the press.

Katten

Steven Reisman in New York and Peter Siddiqui in Chicago jointly chair Katten’s insolvency and restructuring practice, which specializes in representing independent directors in Chapter 11 bankruptcies and out-of-court restructurings. Reisman has broad experience representing debtors, DIP lenders, equity sponsors, creditors’ committees, indenture trustees, and distressed investors. Siddiqui often advises banks, hedge funds, and private equity investors, as well as debtors-in-possession in Chapter 11 cases. The practice recently represented GWG Holdings, Inc. at the direction of the independent directors in connection with the company’s Chapter 11 case. Cindi Giglio and Marc Roitman in New York are also key names in the team. Geoffrey King departed for King & Spalding LLP in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Steven Reisman; Peter Siddiqui


Other key lawyers:

Cindi Giglio; Marc Roitman


Key clients

Ad Hoc Group of Insurance Companies in the Chapter 11 cases of Imerys Talc America and LTL Management


Ad Hoc Group of OpCo Creditors in the Grupo Aeromexico Chapter 11 cases


Bank of the West


Certain subsidiaries of Mallinckrodt


ETC Texas Pipeline Ltd.; Energy Transfer Fuel, LP; ETC Katy Pipeline, Ltd.; Houston Pipe Line Company LP; ETC Tiger Pipeline Ltd.; Sunoco Marketing; and Oasis Pipeline L.P.


Gordon Brothers Commercial & Industrial, LLC


GWG Holdings, Inc


Health Net, Inc.


Intelsat Envision Holdings LLC J.V.B. Financial Inc.


Lapmaster Group Holdings,


NAC Aviation 29 Designated Activity Company


Seadrill North Atlantic Holdings Limite


Sears Holding Corp. and its affiliated debtors (“Sears”)


UMB Bank, N.A.


Windstream Holdings, Inc. and its debtor affiliates (collectively, “Windstream”)


Work highlights


  • Represented GWG at the direction of the Independent Directors in connection with the company’s Chapter 11 cases.
  • Represented Intelsat, at the direction of the Disinterested Managers, in the Chapter 11 cases of Intelsat S.A.
  • Represented the Specialty Generics Debtors at the direction of the Disinterested Managers in connection with the Mallinckrodt Chapter 11 cases.

Mayer Brown

Mayer Brown advises a wide range of clients, including debtors, agents, lenders, creditors’ committees, and distressed asset acquirers, and has an especially strong reputation for representing financial institutions in relation to chapter 11 bankruptcies. New York-based Brian Trust and Adam Paul in Chicago lead the practice- Trust has extensive experience representing banks and other financial institutions in complex restructuring, while Paul has a strong reputation for advising debtor and creditor clients in in- and out-of-court restructurings. With considerable experience representing senior debt lenders, Tom Kiriakos is practice leader in the firm’s Chicago office, and has notable expertise in handling the restructuring of syndicated debts.

Practice head(s):

Adam Paul; Brian Trust


Other key lawyers:

Charles Kelley; Douglas Spelfogel; Leah Eisenberg; Louis Chiapetta; Tom Kiriakos


Testimonials

‘A business-oriented and practical group with the highest level of legal acumen. The group has a terrific knowledge base combined with pragmatism.’ 

‘They are efficient and responsive and provided great insights. True experts in the field and well respected – by adversaries and the judiciary.’ 

‘They have strong industry knowledge and provided useful insight and strategy, not just a legal solution.’

‘Douglas Spelfogel is an exceptional attorney. He routinely provides practical, business savvy advice in challenging and novel circumstances.’

‘They established valued relationships with their clients and are fully invested in the work they are engaged on.’

‘Brian Trust, Leah Eisenberg and Doug Spelfogel provide exceptional legal advice and are exceptional people to work with. What makes them different is their dedication to developing a partnership with the people they work with!’

‘Good team led by Adam Paul. Responsive, available and commercial. Good and to the point advice. Well connected in the C11 space.’

‘Adam Paul is very good. And helped by his litigation partner in Houston Charles Kelley. We really enjoyed working with them.’

Key clients

Barclays


GLAS USA LLC and GLAS Americas LLC


U.S. Bank


Northern Ocean Ltd. and Northern Drilling Ltd.


GWG Holdings, Inc.


Wilmington Trust, National Association


Stillwater Funds


Work highlights


  • Represented GWG Holdings, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries as lead debtors’ counsel in connection with their Chapter 11 cases.
  • Represented the administrative agent under the $500 million syndicated multi-lender pre-petition revolving credit facility to Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. in its Chapter 11 case.
  • Representing an ad hoc creditor committee in the bankruptcy case of UniEnergy Technologies, LLC.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright leverages the firm’s global footprint to advise major clients in relation to domestic and cross-border restructuring and insolvency matters, including Chapter 11 and Chapter 15 bankruptcies. Jason Boland  in Houston, Ryan Manns in Dallas, and Eric Daucher in New York jointly lead the practice, which has a particularly strong reputation for its work in the energy sector. Boland has experience advising debtors, committees, lenders, indenture trustees, and creditors, and recently led a cross-practice team acting as lead counsel to Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc in connection with its Chapter 11 case. Manns has broad experience both in and out of court, while Daucher represents financial institutions, debtors, DIP lenders, and distressed asset purchases. Howard Seife  is a global co-head of restructuring and has represented domestic and international clients in all key industries.


Practice head(s):

Jason Boland; Ryan Manns; Eric Daucher


Other key lawyers:

Bob Bruner; Howard Seife; Toby Gerber; William Greendyke


Testimonials

‘I’ve worked with Bob Bruner and Bill Greendyke on a fairly difficult restructuring matter and found both to be pleasant, very knowledgeable, professional and a pleasure to work with.’ 

Key clients

Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.


Scandinavian Airline System (SAS)


Coordinating Committee of Secured Creditors and Agents of Altera Infrastructure L.P.


Senior Secured Lenders to Alto Maipo SpA


Philippine Airlines Inc.


8e14 Networks, Inc (d/b/a Ananda Networks)


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Black News Channel, LLC


Steel Reef Infrastructure Corp., Steel Reef Pipelines Corp., Steel Reef Pipelines US LLC and Steel Reef Burke, LLC


Alter Domus (US) LLC


Joint Provisional Liquidators of Luckin Coffee Inc.


Chapter 11 Trustee of Permico Midstream Partners


Coöperatieve Rabobank, U.A., New York Branch


JPMorgan Chase Bank


HSBC Bank


Deutsche Bank


Bank of New York Mellon


Shell Oil Company


Anadarko Petroleum Company


NextEra Energy, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Representing Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc., the largest generation and transmission cooperative in Texas, in its high-profile Chapter 11 proceedings in the Southern District of Texas.
  • Representing Scandinavian Airline System as special aircraft finance counsel which commenced Chapter 11 proceedings in the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
  • Representing the Coordinating Committee of Secured Lenders and Agents in connection with the cross-border pre-negotiated restructuring of Altera Infrastructure L.P.

O'Melveny & Myers LLP

O'Melveny & Myers LLP has been especially active in the major municipal restructuring of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and is also involved in corporate restructuring matters in a variety of industries, including transportation, telecommunications, energy, and aviation. John Rapisardi in New York has considerable experience and chairs the firm’s global restructuring practice, and of late has focused on the Puerto Rico restructuring. Dallas-based Louis Strubeck chairs the US restructuring department, while Tancred Schiavoni in New York has recently led a team representing Chubb affiliate Century Indemnity in The Boy Scouts of America’s high-profile Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Practice head(s):

John Rapisardi; Louis Strubeck


Other key lawyers:

Tancred Schiavoni


Key clients

City of Long Beach, New York


Morgan Stanley


Brazos Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.


Commonwealth of Puerto Rico


Puerto Rico Fiscal Agency and Financial Advisory Authority (“AAFAF”)


Brandywine (a Chubb company)


Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority


Pacific Alliance Asia Opportunity Fund L.P.


Alvarez & Marsal


Ankura Consulting Group


Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP regularly represents private equity firms, hedge funds, ad hoc creditors’ committees, and debtors in relation to a wide range of matters, including Chapter 11 cases, contested plan confirmations, and DIP financing and cash collateral disputes. Notably, the practice is involved in the chapter 11 proceedings of FTX trading, investigating and pursuing the recovery of billions of dollars in funds. The practice, chaired by Susheel Kirpalani in New York, is renowned for its litigation expertise alongside handling negotiated matters. Kirpalani has recently led the practice’s successful representation of restaurant supply company TriMark USA, LLC, in litigation proceedings brought by lenders against the company in relation to a liquidity transaction made at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Benjamin Finestone is another key name in the team, and regularly acts on behalf of debtors against lending banks.

Practice head(s):

Susheel Kirpalani


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Finestone; Deborah Newman; Eric Winston; James Tecce; K. John Shaffer; Matt Scheck; Patty Tomasco


Testimonials

‘The QE financial restructuring team is very strong, they have good technical skills and their restructuring litigation skills sets them apart from other restructuring firms. They are very aggressive in advocating for their clients’ rights.’

‘Deborah Newman is a very experienced and skilled restructuring litigator, her court room skills are great and her writing skills are the best in the business.’ 

‘Shusheel Kirpilani is a very skilled negotiator and well very well trusted senior advisor.’

Key clients

Shannon Wind—Starwood Energy Group


Intelsat Jackson Holdings S.A


Chatham Asset Management


Brigade Capital Management, HPS, Symphony Asset Management


Creditor Representative


Just Energy Texas Group


Litigation Trustee of the QHC Litigation Trust, and Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, solely in its capacity as Indenture Trustee.


Litigation Trustee for the Litigation Sub-Trust created under the Plan of Reorganization for Highland Capital Management, L.P.


TriMark USA, LLC


Service King Collision Repair


Nordic Aviation Capital, Designated Activity Company


Earplug Plaintiffs (In re Aearo Technologies, LLC)


Lawful Constitutional Debt Coalition Creditors of Commonwealth of Puerto Rico


Strategic Value Partners (In re Seadrill, Ltd.)


Energy Conversion Devices Liquidation Trust


Talen Energy Supply/Talen Montana


FitzWalter Capital (In re JPA)


Rescap Trust


Special Counsel to the Chapter 7 Trustee in In re LeClairRyan PLLC (1)


Chapter 11 Administrative Expense Claims Representative in In re Sears Holding Corp.


Airlines Reporting Corporation


4E Global S.A. P.I. de C.V.


HPS Investment Partners, LLC


Certain Board Members of AeroMexico


Vinson & Elkins LLP

David Meyer and Bill Wallander, in New York and Dallas respectively, head Vinson & Elkins LLP’s restructuring and reorganization practice, which is best known for its work in the energy sector, and also represents companies, institutional and alternative lenders, private equity sponsors, distressed purchasers, and other interested parties in relation to in- and out-of-court restructuring matters in a variety of industries. Meyer has recently led a team, alongside Paul Heath in Houston, advising Riverstone Holdings LLC and certain of its funds as equity owners of Talen Energy Corporation in connection with the Chapter 11 case Talen Energy Supply. Wallander has considerable experience representing creditors, syndicated bank groups, bondholder groups, non-bank lenders, private equity funds, and debtors.

Practice head(s):

Bill Wallander; David Meyer


Other key lawyers:

George Howard; Harry Perrin; Paul Heath; Steven Abramowitz


Testimonials

‘Significant Texas and energy sector expertise but with a national practice covering company and creditor representations.’

‘Exceptional energy experience across sectors.’

‘Very smart and knowledgeable in the energy arena but also quite practical and commercial.’

‘We received senior partner level attention. They are adept at representing companies, sponsors and creditors. A very commercial, solutions-oriented practice.’ 

‘David Meyer is always available and always insightful. If he didn’t have an answer immediately (which was rare), he followed up quickly.’

Key clients

HeartBrand Holdings, Inc.


Rockall Energy Holdings, LLC


Unit Corporation


Riverstone Holdings L.L.C.


Talen Energy Corporation


Freeport-McMoRan Inc.


Goldman Sachs Specialty Lending Group, L.P.


The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.


Wells Fargo Energy Capital Inc.


JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA


Talos Energy LLC


Ad Hoc Group of Co-Op Members of Brazos


AMP Capital Investors (US) Limited


Riverstone Credit Management LLC


Dhanani Group Inc.


Axip Energy Services, L.P.


TPG Global and TPG Global Management


U.S. Well Services, Inc.


HeartBrand Beef


Ocean Point Terminals, LLC (f/k/a/ Limetree Bay Terminals)


Ares Management Corporation (f/k/a AMP Capital Investors (US) Limited)


Retail Ecommerce Ventures LLC


Select Energy Services, Inc.


AB Opportunity Fund LLC


Work highlights


  • Advising Riverstone Holdings LLC and certain of its funds as equity owners of the Talen parent company, Talen Energy Corporation and the TEC subsidiaries focused on ESG initiatives in the Chapter 11 cases of TEC’s wholly-owned subsidiary Talen Energy Supply, LLC.
  • Advised AMP Capital Investors (US) Limited in connection with the successful out-of-court financial restructuring of Limetree Bay Terminals LLC and certain affiliates.
  • Advised Riverstone Credit Management LLC, as lender and administrative agent on behalf of a syndicate of lenders under a $410 million term loan facility, in connection with the Chapter 11 restructuring of borrower MTE Holdings LLC and its affiliated debtors.

Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP

With experience representing a wide range of clients, including debtors, creditors’ committees, bondholders’ committees, and lenders, in relation to chapter 11 bankruptcies, out-of-court restructurings, and distressed acquisitions, Brad Scheler heads Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP’s multidisciplinary practice. The team regularly collaborates with its offices in key jurisdictions such as London and Frankfurt, allowing it to handle cross-border proceedings. Scheler has recently led a cross-practice team, alongside Peter Siroka, acting as primary outside counsel to Seritage Growth Properties in connection with the chapter 11 case of Sears Holding Corporation and an adversary proceeding brought by Sears against Seritage and other defendants. Jennifer Rodburg led a team advising CVS Pharmacy and Humana in relation to Mallinckrodt PLC’s high-profile chapter 11 case. All lawyers mentioned are in New York.

Practice head(s):

Brad Scheler


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Rodburg; Peter Siroka


Testimonials

‘Brad Scheler, who heads the Restructuring Group in New York, is at the head of the class. He is technical, smart , creative and also understands the Bankruptcy Court as a Court of equity. His business judgment is excellent.’ 

Key clients

AEA Investors LP


Ascribe Capital


Authentic Brands Group


Brookfield Property Partners


Canyon Partners LLC


Centerbridge Partners, LP


Citadel


CVS Pharmacy


CX Reinsurance Company Limited


Deutsche Bank


Goldman Sachs


Humana


JFXD Capital LLC


JP Morgan Chase


Lazard Freres & Co LLC


Nice-Pak Products


Seritage Growth Properties


SGS International LLC


Simon Property Group


Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Represented Seritage Growth Properties in connection with the chapter 11 cases of Sears Holding Corporation, and an adversary proceeding brought by Sears against Seritage and numerous other defendants.
  • Representing CVS Pharmacy and Humana, respectively, in connection with the Chapter 11 cases of Mallinckrodt PLC.
  • Represented Citadel regarding its investment and debt holdings in a number of Chapter 11 debtors.

Linklaters LLP

Margot Schonholtz heads the New York-based practice at Linklaters LLP which leverages its global network to advise a wide range of clients, including ad hoc groups of bondholders, lender syndicates, creditors, and companies, in relation to cross-border restructuring and insolvency matters. Schonholtz specializes in advising financial institutions as well as funds and asset managers on debt restructurings, bankruptcy litigation matters, and asset sale transactions. Robert Trust in New York regularly advises companies and financial institutions on in- and out-of-court restructuring matters, while Penelope Jensen also plays an important role in the team, advising administrative agents, steering committees, individual lenders, and other credit providers.

Practice head(s):

Margot Schonholtz


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Hunker; Penelope Jensen; Rebecca Jarvis; Robert Trust


Testimonials

‘LL’s strengths lie in their ability to effectively manage expectations, work with professionals on all sides and creatively handle unique situations leading to a successful case conclusion. This included international issues and LL used their international resources as such.’

‘The core team included Margot Schonholtz aided by Chris Hunker and Penelope Jensen among others. They worked seamlessly in communicating and sharing ideas leading to case closure. They were retained by a large international lender group and managed to maintain a process whereby their client always seemed informed and on board group decisions and then coordinated with the company, myself and other company professionals, as well as other interested parties, in building consensus solutions. They were always accessible with good instincts and solutions.’

Key clients

Ad hoc group of RCF lenders and other lenders under bilateral credit facilities


Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.


Ad hoc group of lenders to Molino Cañuelas S.A.C.I.F.I.A.


Citibank, N.A.


Citibank, N.A.


The First Lien Secured Lenders to GBG USA, Inc


Société Air France S.A. (“Air France”); Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij N.V. (“KLM”); Martinair Hollan N.V. (“Martinair”)


Santander Bank, N.A.


North Haven Credit Funds, an affiliate of Morgan Stanley, and certain other financial institutions (Pre-confirmation)


Vewd Software AS


Sercel Holding SAS and Sercel Inc.


Barclays Capital Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advising an ad hoc group of RCF lenders and other lenders under bilateral credit facilities provided to Nordic Aviation Capital.
  • Advising Santander Bank, N.A. in the Chapter 11 cases of LATAM Airlines in connection with its US$200mm receivables purchase agreement with LATAM Airlines.
  • Advising Wells Fargo, as agent to the senior secured lender group, in the wind-down of Titan Energy LLC.

McDermott Will & Emery LLP

McDermott Will & Emery LLP stands out for its expertise in the healthcare and life sciences sectors as well as for advising private equity firms on distressed transactions, also acting debtors, sponsors, lenders, purchasers, and creditors in a variety of industries. With experience representing a broad range of clients in relation to Chapter 11 proceedings, out-of-court negotiations, workouts, and distressed acquisitions, Chicago-based Felicia Perlman heads the practice, with Darren Azman and Joe Evans in New York, alongside Chuck Gibbs in Dallas, and Daniel Simon in Atlanta, also key names in the team. Bradley Giordano has healthcare and energy sector expertise and notably led the practice’s representation of the official committee of unsecured creditors of clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company PhaseBio Pharmaceuticals Inc. in connection with its Chapter 11 filing.

Practice head(s):

Felicia Perlman


Testimonials

‘Broad healthcare expertise across the firm provides the restructuring group with a significant edge on more specialized healthcare restructurings and competitors struggle to match MWE’s wherewithal in the sector.’ 

‘Bradley Giordano is very commercial, solutions oriented and provides exceptional client service’

‘Efficient and responsive, as well as being top notch subject matter experts. They make it easy to be a client in these difficult situations.’

Key clients

Quorum Health Corporation


Nordic Aviation Capital (certain subsidiaries)


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Voyager Digital Holdings Inc.


Cred Inc. Liquidation Trust


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.


Wilmington Trust, N.A.


Denton County Electric Cooperative, Inc.


City of Rock Hill, S.C.


Volunteer Energy Services, Inc.


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Entrust Energy


Centric Brands, Inc. Claims Oversight Administrator


Intelsat S.A.


Wilmington Trust


PhaseBio


Compute North


Gulf Coast


Work highlights


  • Represented Quorum Health Corporation, one of the largest rural hospitals systems in the United States, as debtors’ counsel in its pre-packaged chapter 11 bankruptcy cases.
  • Represented the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of PhaseBio Pharmaceuticals Inc. in PhaseBio’s Chapter 11 case filed in the United Stated Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
  • Representing the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Voyager Digital Holdings Inc.

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP is involved in a wide range of matters, specializing in representing lenders and investors in relation to the restructuring of distressed life settlement and premium finance investment vehicles. With experience advising DIP lenders, secured lenders, bank groups, and hedge funds in connection with formal bankruptcies, out-of-court restructurings, and creditors’ rights issues, New Yok-based Raniero D’Aversa heads the practice, which has recently advised Lane Gate Advisors as the DIP lender and plan sponsor in the Chapter 11 cases of Consolidated Wealth Holdings, which also saw a key role for Khai LeQuang in Orange County. B.J. Rosen in New York is also active on DIP lender advice and Chapter 11 cases.

Practice head(s):

Raniero D’Aversa


Other key lawyers:

B. J. Rosen; Khai LeQuang; Laura Metzger; Lorraine McGowen


Key clients

Credit Suisse; Column Financial


Lane Gate Advisors LP


Petroserv Marine, Inc.


Galaxy Digital LP


SFJ Pharmaceuticals X, Ltd.


State of Oregon Retirement Fund


NOVA Chemicals Corporation


Pyramid Management Group LLC


Liquidators of Greensill Limited


Whitehawk Capital Partners


Work highlights


  • Representing SFJ Pharmaceuticals X, Ltd in the PhaseBio Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
  • Representing Galaxy Digital LP as a prospective DIP lender and potential purchaser of certain assets that the debtors in the Celsius Network LLC bankruptcy plan to sell.
  • Advised Petroserv Marine Inc in the restructuring of $882 million of existing financial indebtedness and the incurrence of an additional $120 million of new super senior financing.

Squire Patton Boggs

With considerable experience representing large- and middle-market debtors, creditors’ committees, senior lenders, and distressed asset acquirers in Chapter 11 and Chapter 15 bankruptcies, Cincinnati- and New York-based Stephen Lerner heads Squire Patton Boggs’s restructuring and insolvency practice, which advises in relation to in- and out-of-court restructurings, as well as the contentious aspects thereof, in a wide range of industries. Lerner, alongside Norman Kinel in New York and Travis McRoberts in Dallas, recently led a team representing the official committee of unsecured creditors in the chapter 11 case of steel manufacturer service company Phoenix Services. Kinel is national chair of the firm’s creditors’ committee group, but often represents debtors, bondholders, and equity holders too. Karol Denniston in San Francisco specializes in litigated bankruptcy cases and out-of-court transactions.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Lerner


Other key lawyers:

Jeff Rothleder; Karol Denniston; Kyle Arendsen; Norman Kinel; Peter Morrison; Travis McRoberts


Testimonials

‘The SPB team had professionals involved around the world but the coordination of the team was very seamless and amazingly proficient as it involved a number of professionals with a variety of law specialties. The client was at times very challenging to manage, but the SPB team was able to balance the client concerns with company priorities during the restructure that resulted in a successful sale.’

‘What makes Stephen Lerner stand out is his ability to see both sides of a dispute and use this ability to broker the best outcome for his client. He is a logical and strategic thinker and uses these traits to position negotiations with the ultimate end goal in mind. Most of the transactions that I have worked with Stephen are ones that are extremely complicated, but he is able to take what is complex and make understandable to all sides.’ 

Stephen Lerner, who is very prominent in the bankruptcy field.’

‘I worked primarily with Stephen Lerner and Kyle Arendsen. They are both highly capable, but even more impressive was their attentiveness and ease to work with. E-mails and telephone calls were returned within a day. The matter they worked on, which was relatively minor, was treated as though it was of major import. The case was staffed leanly and well within budget.’

Key clients

Ferrellgas


Phoenix Services TopCo, LLC


Blackjewel Liquidation Trust


Relocation Payment Clearing House


Liquidation Trustee of BJ Services, LLC


World Class Holdings I, LLC


The Episcopal Church


Pan American Silver


CCU Coal and Construction


NetJets


CPIF Lending LLC


Colorado Bankers Life Insurance Company


New General Market Partners


Western Alliance Bank


Keck Graduate Institute


Victory Concept


Work highlights


  • Advising Ferrellgas on its $2+ billion restructuring of its publicly traded parent and wholly owned operating subsidiary, together with follow on post-restructuring transactions.
  • Advising the recently appointed Phoenix Services TopCo Creditors Committee in the recently filed Delaware chapter 11 case of this global provider of services to the steel industry.
  • Advising the Relocation Payment Clearinghouse, an entity established in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission, on issues related to the distribution of over $4 billion of funds to be allocated to chapter 11 debtor Intelsat from an FCC established program.

WilmerHale

Philip Anker and Andrew Goldman jointly lead the New York-based practice at WilmerHale, which is well known for its bankruptcy litigation expertise, especially in the energy and natural resources, retail, and media sectors, and has been involved in several of the major bankruptcy cases of the last few years. Anker has experience representing debtors, official committees of unsecured creditors, ad hoc groups, noteholders, indenture trustees, and equity holders, and has recently led a team representing Hartford Financial Services Group in connection with the high-profile Chapter 11 case of The Boy Scouts of America Goldman handles bankruptcy-related litigation for a wide range of clients, including debtors, creditors, debtor-in-possession lenders, and distressed asset acquirers, George Shuster specializes in restructuring matters in the life sciences sector, while Benjamin Loveland has a strong reputation for representing distressed debt investors.

Practice head(s):

Philip Anker; Andrew Goldman


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Loveland; George Shuster


Testimonials

‘WilmerHale practices at the top of the profession in the bankruptcy/restructuring area and provides unmatched client service, with the expertise and resources that you would expect from a top firm, but unlike some other top firms WilmerHale is extremely efficient and delivers great value.’

‘George Shuster is an outstanding bankruptcy attorney. He stands out for his excellent judgment, his strategic insights, and his practical approach to resolving cases. He is a trusted advisor that I can always rely on.’

‘Very smart, very practical and very tough. Incredibly responsive.’

Key clients

Diamond Sports Group


Edward Lampert/ESL Investments


Walt Disney


Wilmington Savings Fund Society


Hartford Financial Services Group


Medtronic/Covidien


Northrop Grumman


PPL Corporation


Sabre


Casella Waste Systems


NBC Universal/Comcast


Rio Tinto


Work highlights


  • Representing the Diamond Sports Group in one of the largest non-mass tort restructuring in the United States.
  • Represented Hartford Financial Services Group in the Chapter 11 case of the Boy Scouts of America.
  • Represented LVNV after the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the Ninth Circuit, overturned a bankruptcy court ruling that awarded a debtor attorney’s fee.

ArentFox Schiff

New York-based Andrew Silfen chairs ArentFox Schiff’s group, which has established a strong reputation for representing unsecured creditors’ committees and indenture trustees inChapter 11 proceedings, including being active in high-profile proceedings, including the bankruptcies of Intelsat and Malindrockt Aram Ordubegian in Los Angeles leads the firm’s West Coast bankruptcy group and primarily advises California-based middle-market businesses and high net-worth individuals in financial distress. George Angelich in New York also plays an important role in the team.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Silfen


Other key lawyers:

Aram Ordubegian; George Angelich


Testimonials

‘The team is exceptionally competent. Collaboration, follow-up, organization, preparation, access, and communication are all first rate.’

‘At this level, you expect people to be smart, but it’s not a given. With Aram Ordubegian, it’s the first thing that comes to mind. He is smart, articulate, responsive, & manages to be exceptionally accessible. He keeps an eye on the end game while navigating the various mid-project, client-injected goals we hand him.’

‘The team is extensively involved and is very responding. They possess a vast knowledge and experience across various fields of law. They are able to render detailed advice promptly. They collaborate with other team members, are very punctual and very diligent. I would highly recommend the firm for anyone looking for high-end professional services at affordable rates.’

Key clients

BOKF, N.A. (Intelsat SA)


BOKF, N.A. (Mallinckrodt PLC)


CoverFX; CFX US Co., Inc. and CFX CDO Co., Inc.


US Bank (Midtown Campus Properties)


Old DDUS Creditor Trust


RCCI Wind Down Company, Inc.


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Walker County Hospital


NTS W. USA Corp. dba Desigual and Desigual USA


Greensill U.S. Liquidation Trust


UMB Bank


Grifols, S.A. and Grifols Worldwide Operations Limited


Coldwater Development LLC and Lydda Lud, LLC –


Gold Depot


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of New York Classic Motors LLC


Space Exploration Technologies Corp. “SpaceX”


BlueMountain; Eagle Arc Partners, LLC; BME Gulf Coast LLC and four subsidiaries


Substantial cryptocurrency investor


Private closely held regional real estate lender


Alex Moglia, Chapter 7 Trustee


Work highlights


  • Represented BOKF in its capacity as indenture trustee for the 4.50% convertible senior notes with an outstanding principal amount of $402.5 million, in connection with the chapter 11 bankruptcy of Intelsat SA.
  • Representing NTS W. USA Corp in insolvency proceedings.
  • Represented CFX US Co., Inc. and CFX CDO Co., Inc in connection with CFX’s chapter 11 filing.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie LLP’s global practice specializes in cross-border matters, including in emerging markets and troubled economies, and regularly represents debtors, distressed asset acquirers, and major creditors in connection with Chapter 11 and Chapter 15 bankruptcy filings, particularly in the Cayman Islands. Debra Dandeneau in New York has recently led the practice’s representation of Safran in connection with the high-profile reorganizations of Latin American airlines Avianca, Aeroméxico, Latam, and SAS, and chairs the global practice. Miami-based Mark Bloom has extensive restructuring experience and is primarily involved in global Chapter 15 cases.

Practice head(s):

Debra Dandeneau; Mark Bloom


Other key lawyers:

John Dodd


Testimonials

‘Mark Bloom and John Dodd have an unparalleled breadth and depth of experience of US and cross-border insolvency, particularly Mark, given the length of time he has been practicing. They are also exceptionally pleasant to work with.’

‘Mark Bloom’s breadth and depth of experience in US and cross-border insolvency in unparalleled and he is exceptionally pleasant to work with. John Dodd is the junior partner and is very hardworking and responsive and also very pleasant.’ 

‘Both Mark and John also have an in depth understanding of the Cayman insolvency profession that is unusual for US counsel. This is born of years of experience acting for Cayman insolvency practitioners, visiting the Cayman Islands, and really trying to understand their clients’ business and concerns.’

Key clients

Safran Landing Systems Services Americas SA de CV


Takata Corporation, and certain of its non-U.S. affiliates and subsidiaries


Bank of China Limited


Mt. Gox Investment Fund


Highgate Consulting Group, Inc. dba Skyview Group Inc. (“Skyview”), CPCM, LLC (“CPCM”), and certain former employees (the “Former Employees”) of Highland Capital Management, L.P. (“Highland”).


MB Global


Joint Official Liquidators of TCA Global Credit Fund, Ltd.


PT Pan Brothers Tbk


Banco do Brasil S.A.


1GC Collections Creditors’ Liquidating Trust


Ernesto Romero


Xperi Holding Corporation


Behaviorally, Inc.


Bryan Deering, and certain affiliated companies


Sika Corporation


TECREF


Hilton Worldwide


Controllers and later Joint Provisional Liquidators of Premier Assurance Group SPC Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advising Safran in connection with its interest in the chapter 11 cases of Avianca, Aeromexico, and Latam.
  • Advising Takata Corporation (“TKJP”), the ultimate Japanese parent of Takata’s worldwide affiliates, and its non-U.S. affiliates in the highly contested Chapter 11 cases of TK Holdings Inc., et al.
  • Advised Bank of China Limited, London Branch (BOC) in the Chapter 11 cases of Seadrill Limited.

Bracewell LLP

With experience advising in relation to a wide range of restructuring matters, including plan creation and confirmation, asset purchases and sales, environmental claims, and bankruptcy litigation, William Wood  in Houston heads Bracewell LLP’s financial restructuring group, which is well known for its work in the energy and shipping sectors. Mark Dendinger in New York and Jason Hutt in Washington DC have recently led a team representing Eni US Operating Co. Inc. and Eni Petroleum US LLC, as predecessors in interest to certain debtors, in connection with the reorganization of Fieldwood Energy LLC.

Practice head(s):

William Wood


Other key lawyers:

Jason Cohen; Jason Hutt; Mark Dendinger; Robert Burns


Testimonials

‘Excellent reputation in Houston’s bankruptcy court which has become a very important domestic venue.’ 

‘Amazing attention to detail of very complex lending relationships.’

‘A great and experienced team that takes care of clients.’ 

‘Jason Cohen cared about and focused on helping the client. I would highly recommend Jason.’

Key clients

Eni Petroleum


Natixis, New York Branch


Venoco Liquidating Trust


Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC


GP Invitation Fund I, LP


Colorado Third Street, LLC


Mid-South Electric Cooperative Association


Wells Fargo


Union Bank N.A.


Tenaska Marketing Ventures


Work highlights


  • Represents Eni US Operating Co. Inc. and Eni Petroleum US LLC, as predecessors in interest to certain debtors in In re Fieldwood Energy LLC.
  • Representing Mid-South Electric Cooperative Association in the bankruptcy of Brazos Electric Power Cooperative Inc.
  • Represents Natixis, New York Branch, as administrative agent of and co-lender to a senior secured RBL credit agreement, in jointly administered chapter 11 proceedings of oil and gas company MDC Texas Energy, LLC.

Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP

Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP’s financial restructuring group has a strong reputation for its work in the insurance and financial services sectors. Dividing his time between New York and London, Gregory Petrick, who has experience representing debtors, official unsecured creditors’ committees, secured lenders, state regulators, and trustees in relation to complex business reorganizations, heads the practice and has recently led a team advising MBIA, Inc. and a joint venture acquisition vehicle owned by MBIA and Bardin Hill Investment Partners, in connection with the acquisition of MD Helicopters. Having joined from King & Spalding LLP in September 2022, New York-based Michael Rupe heads the special situations and reorganizations practice and brings ad hoc lender group expertise.

Practice head(s):

Gregory Petrick


Other key lawyers:

Ingrid Bagby; Michael Rupe


Key clients

Hemen Holding, Ltd.


Federal Reserve Bank of Boston


MBIA, Inc.


Assured Guaranty Corp.


Kingsland Holdings Limited


Argonaut Insurance Company


JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.


National Founders LP (Credigy)


J. Aron & Company LLC (Goldman Sachs)


Work highlights


  • Advised MBIA and a joint venture acquisition vehicle majority owned by MBIA and Bardin Hill Investment Partners in the acquisition of aircraft manufacturer MD Helicopters, Inc. through a Bankruptcy Code Section 363 asset sale.
  • Advising MBIA Insurance Corp. and MBIA Inc. in multiple capacities relating to two of three collateral loan obligation investment funds referred to collectively as the “Zohar Funds,” or, individually, as Zohar I and Zohar II.

Choate, Hall & Stewart

Operating out of Boston, Choate, Hall & Stewart’s finance and restructuring practice represents companies and creditors in relation to all aspects of corporate restructurings, workouts, distressed asset and debt acquisitions, and insolvency proceedings. The practice is particularly strong representing lenders in the retail, sports, real estate, healthcare, and technology sectors, and insurers in litigated bankruptcy proceedings. Jennifer Fenn, Sean Monahan, and John Ventola jointly lead the department, while, with considerable experience advising in relation to debtor-in-possession lending and senior, second lien, and mezzanine debt in complex restructurings, Douglas Gooding plays an important role in the team.


Practice head(s):

Jennifer Conway Fenn; Sean Monahan; John Ventola


Other key lawyers:

Douglas Gooding


Key clients

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.


Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce


Liberty Mutual Insurance Company


Citizens Bank, N.A.


Bank of America, N.A.


JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.


Eclipse Business Capital, LLC


Second Avenue Capital Partners


Gordon Brothers Group


SLR Credit Solutions f/k/a Crystal Financial


Clifford Chance

With experience representing financial institutions, agents, borrowers, and strategic investors in US and Latin American debt restructurings, Jennifer DeMarco heads Clifford Chance’s financial restructuring group. The practice represents clients from a broad range of industries, including insurance, retail, cryptocurrency, and energy, and has recently been involved in several insolvencies in the airline sector. Douglas Deutsch plays an important role in the team and typically represents financial institutions, indenture trustees and agents, and debtors in in- and out-of-court restructurings and is also well known for advising creditors in relation to cross-border insolvencies. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.


Practice head(s):

Jennifer DeMarco


Other key lawyers:

Douglas Deutsch; Sarah Campbell


Testimonials

‘They are used to dealing with cross-border matters.’

‘Jennifer Demarco is a hands-on partner.’ 

‘Sarah Campbell is a very focused and organized associate.’

Work highlights


  • Advised Nordic Aviation Capital and various of its subsidiaries (NAC) as special counsel in its prearranged US chapter 11 cases, which resulted in a $6.3 billion debt restructuring.
  • Advising a number of aircraft lessors and finance parties in the ongoing US chapter 11 proceeding of Scandinavian Airlines currently pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
  • Advising a leading global financial services firm, as revolving loan agent and lender, in connection with the potential restructuring of a textile manufacturer and various subsidiaries.

Dentons

Dentons focuses on work in the healthcare, energy, mining, real estate, and financial services sectors, with experience advising companies, secured creditors, committees, trustees, and principals in relation to restructurings both in and out of court. With a strong reputation for her work in the healthcare sector, Los Angeles-based Tania Moyron leads the US practice group. Alongside Samuel Maizel, also in Los Angeles, Moyron has recently led a team representing First Guaranty Mortgage in connection with its Chapter 11 case. Robert Richards in Chicago chairs the firm’s global restructuring practice, and handles Chapter 11 representations, distressed asset acquisitions, distressed loan purchases and foreclosure sales, and out-of-court transactions. Litigator Sam Alberts in Washington DC is also a key team member.

Practice head(s):

Tania Moyron


Other key lawyers:

James Irving; Robert Richards; Sam Alberts; Samuel Maizel


Testimonials

‘Sam Alberts is an outstanding litigator and skilled negotiator in bankruptcy matters.’

‘Sam Alberts is well-known and respected by his peers in the bankruptcy bar and with the bench in key jurisdictions.’

‘A full-service firm coverage with personal approach to client.’

‘Sam Alberts is engaged and very responsive. He goes the extra mile for the client, and is also very well connected with other practitioners in the field which is very helpful to sort out inter-creditor or debtor/creditor issues.’

‘The practice takes a pragmatic approach and is not just looking to bill hours or load a project up with associates. They are real problem solvers with candid opinion regarding risks and deal execution.’

‘Robert Richards is a stand-out partner. He learns the client’s business, level of sophistication and goals, and adds value and works efficiently.’

Key clients

First Guaranty Mortgage and its affiliates


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Alto Maipo Spa and Alto Maipo Delaware, LLC Chapter 11 Bankruptcy


Borrego Community Health Foundation


Ohana Real Estate Investors LLC


Deva Capital


Rayburn Country Electric Cooperative


Verity Health Systems of California, Inc. and 16 related entities


Astria Health


Friedrich von Kaltenborn Stachau, Administrator


Virginia Surety Company f/k/a Combined Specialty Insurance Company


Travelers Indemnity Company


Special Opportunity Value Fund (and related entities)


AXA XL Insurance


Twelve Six Capital, LLC


Agspring Mississippi Region LLC and four affiliated companies


RSG Group


Liberty Mutual Insurance Company


Work highlights


  • Representing First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation and its affiliate in Chapter 11 cases in the District of Delaware.
  • Represented unsecured creditors in securing the reverse of a proposed 0% distribution to receive 100% in a $2 billion, Chapter 11 cross border bankruptcy case of a Chilean hydroelectric plan.
  • Filed a Chapter 11 case for Borrego Community Health Foundation, a federally qualified nonprofit health care center.

Goodwin

Goodwin advises borrowers, lenders, acquirers, and creditors’ committees in relation to a broad range of matters and has a particularly strong out-of-court restructuring offering in the healthcare, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and financial services sectors. Michael Goldstein  in New York chairs the practice, with Howard Steel also a key name for Chapter 11 proceedings. Kizzy Jarashow was promoted to partner in October 2022 and stands out for her work in the biotech and pharmaceuticals spaces. Alexander Nicas joined the practice from Kirkland & Ellis LLP in April 2022.

Practice head(s):

Michael Goldstein


Other key lawyers:

Alexander Nicas; Howard Steel; Kizzy Jarashow


Testimonials

‘An incredibly smart and incredibly collegial team – Goodwin have truly rebuilt their insolvency capability around two exceptional lawyers in Michael Goldstein and Howard Steel.’

‘Michael Goldstein is a dean of the bankruptcy bar and among the highest intellects in our profession. He is detail oriented and focused on using the law to achieve the big picture. Howard Steele is the consummate bankruptcy professional with exceptional political skill. He is tuned in to every client concern, and he simply knows everyone in the industry and how to get deals done.’

‘Kizzy Jarashow is an excellent bankruptcy attorney. She is extremely smart, professional, knowledgeable, responsive and an overall pleasure to work with. She is able to break down a complex problem in order to come up with practical and cost effective solutions. One of her best attributes is her analytical skill and thought process.’

‘They have the ability to distill the most complex hostile situations and allow the business time to breath and resolve the situation with out the need to litigate.’

‘They have intelligence, presence & courage.’

Key clients

CertainTeed LLC


Work highlights


  • Representing CertainTeed LLC, certain of its affiliates and certain directors and officers in the DBMP chapter 11 case.

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP’s bankruptcy, restructuring, and creditors’ rights practice represents debtors, trustees, official and ad hoc creditor and equity committees, bank groups, and DIP lenders, and has a strong reputation for its work in the energy sector. With debtor- and creditor-side bankruptcy experience, Richmond-based Tyler Brown chairs the practice alongside Houston's Timothy Davidson, who also has broad experience representing debtors, secured and unsecured creditors, and committees in relation to Chapter 11 reorganizations throughout the US, as well as workouts and distressed acquisitions.

Practice head(s):

Tyler Brown; Timothy Davidson


Other key lawyers:

Justin Paget


Testimonials

‘The people and culture of this firm are exceptional and make it standout. Their expertise, work ethic, emotional intelligence, integrity, and professionalism make them a preferred firm on the most challenging and sensitive matters. The attorneys treat their clients, staff and opposing parties with respect. The people who work here are very demanding of themselves, lead by example, and in the end somehow make everything and everyone around them better.’

‘Tyler Brown and Justin Paget are truly impressive. Their expertise, ability to learn new areas quickly, responsiveness, work ethic, honesty, professionalism and kindness make them standout. Their skill, work ethic, and sound judgement, gets results.’

Key clients

Limetree Bay Terminals, LLC


Apache Corporation


J. Crew Group, Inc.


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Buckingham Senior Living Community, Inc.


Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Intelsat S.A.


Proprietary Capital LLC


Deutsche Bank


Performance Food Group


Capital One Bank, N.A.


Ad Hoc Committee of Lenders to NAC Aviation


Work highlights


  • Represents creditors Limetree Bay Terminals, now doing business as Ocean Point Terminals, and certain affiliates in the bankruptcy proceedings of its affiliate Limetree Bay Refining.
  • Advised Apache Corporation in the Fieldwood Energy bankruptcy proceedings.
  • Representing J. Crew entities in their Chapter 11 bankruptcies.

King & Spalding

King & Spalding LLP’s financial restructuring practice sits within the firm’s global corporate, finance, and investments group, led by Todd Holleman and Jennifer Daly in New York. The practice represents banks, private debt funds, direct lenders, and ad hoc lender groups, among others, in relation to a range of restructuring matters in and out of court, and has recently represented KKR Credit Advisors as DIP lender and prepetition second lien secured lender to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. in connection with its Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Roger Schwartz, Christopher Boies, and Peter Montoni, all based in New York, are also key names in the team, handling a diverse range of matters, while Matthew Warren in Chicago and Austin Jowers in Atlanta are also recommended for their work in the energy sector.

Practice head(s):

Todd Holleman; Jennifer Daly


Other key lawyers:

Austin Jowers; Christopher Boies; Matthew Warren; Peter Montoni; Roger Schwartz


Key clients

Antares Capital


Apollo Capital Management, L.P.


Arbour Lane Capital Management


Archegos Capital Management


Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises, Inc.


Assured Investment Management (f/k/a BlueMountain Capital)


Capital One, NA


Cerberus Capital Management


Citibank


Citizens Bank


First Eagle Investment Management


Fortress Investments Group


GDB Debt Recovery Authority


General Motors LLC


Highbridge Capital


JP Morgan


KKR Credit Advisors


Prudential


Shiloh Industries


Truist


Work highlights


  • Represented the Ad Hoc Term Loan and Secured Notes Group in connection with approximately $1 billion of pre- and post-petition debt in Talen Energy’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases.
  • Represented KKR Credit Advisors as DIP lender and second lien lender in connection with the Sequential Brands Group Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
  • Represented the Special Restructuring Committee, which was comprised of four independent directors, in connection with Fusion Connect’s out-of-court restructuring and recapitalization transaction that was negotiated at the direction of, and approved by, the Committee.

Reed Smith LLP

With experience representing secured creditors, indenture trustees, creditors’ committees, debtors, and other interested parties, Kurt Gwynne, operating out of Wilmington and New York, heads Reed Smith LLP’s global restructuring and insolvency group. The practice has broad expertise, including in relation to in- and out-of-court restructurings in the technology, media, and financial services industries.

Practice head(s):

Kurt Gwynne


Other key lawyers:

David Pisciotta; Devon Cole; Jay Krystinik; Keith Aurzada; Lou Curcio; Omar Alaniz; Taylre Janak


Testimonials

‘The firm has a very deep bench and highly experienced attorneys that are well versed in bankruptcy and enforcement matters.’

‘Keith Aurzada is highly experienced in litigation, enforcement and bankruptcy matters. He has been responsible for facilitating outstanding outcomes for our firm and we view him as one of the top bankruptcy experts we have dealt with.’

‘This practice not only has a deep knowledge of the law and issues, but has taken the time to gain a deep knowledge of the customer’s business practices and risk appetite. This enables them to provide practical advice which is carefully tailored to their client’s needs.’