Cooley LLP is active at the intersection of tech, business, and intellectual property, combining expertise in commercial transactions with a deep understanding of IP law. Based in Palo Alto, TJ Graham , chair of the tech transactions practice, is renowned for his expertise in high-tech, AI, and digital media deals, advising industry giants on transformative transactions such as Rubrik’s $752m IPO and Zillow’s $400m acquisition of Follow Up Boss. Tracy Rubin, an expert in complex IP transactions, has guided clients on major deals across industries like AI, semiconductors, and digital media, including Carmot Therapeutics’ $2.76bn uisition by Roche. Recently promoted to partner, Caitlin Courtney  is highly regarded for her work on strategic licensing, M&A, and commercial deals, including a $125m acquisition, a $1.8bn sale, and a $140m acquisition with a $100m debt facility.

Goodwin stands out for its expertise in supporting tech companies through every phase of their development. Through its comprehensive approach, it has fostered long-term trust, retaining clients from their early-stage startup days to their growth as publicly traded companies. The practice provides strategic guidance across key areas like seed financing, IPOs, M&A, AI, intellectual property, licensing, and international transactions. Stephen Charkoudian, co-founder of the team, is a active across tech, data, and IP law, advising on transformative technologies and co-directing Goodwin’s AI accelerator. Bethany Withers brings specialized expertise in technology, data, and intellectual property, focusing on licensing, strategic partnerships, celebrity endorsements, and promotion law compliance, assisting both businesses and individuals. Jim Riley , based in Silicon Valley, is an authority on tech and venture capital law, advising high-growth companies on IP strategy, AI, data privacy, and tech transactions.

Kirkland & Ellis LLP  is a market leader in the US. and Europe, known for its deep expertise and global client base. The group excels in carve-outs, outsourcing, joint ventures, and strategic alliances, with a focus on sectors such as AI, healthcare, and blockchain. Seth Traxler , in Chicago, has played a key role in expanding Kirkland’s tech practice, using his expertise in business, law, and technology to lead complex transactions for clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to start-ups. In the Bay Area, John Lynn  is a lead advisor, handling high-stakes IP, IT, and data protection matters in M&A, financings, and restructurings.

Latham & Watkins LLP advises on a wide range of matters, from data privacy and cybersecurity to intellectual property and licensing, and standout knowledge of emerging tech such as AI, cloud services, and digital health. The team supports companies at all stages – from startups to established industry leaders – across the full spectrum of business-critical transactions. Notably, Ghaith Mahmood  in Los Angeles, a leading expert in IP and technology transactions, specializing in AI, software, video games, and blockchain. advising major technology companies and emerging startups on complex legal issues, including groundbreaking work in AI law and the development of innovative NFT licensing solutions. Morgan Brubaker in Washington DC  advised Silver Lake Partners on its US$9.2bn ivestment in Vantage Data Centers.

Morrison Foerster is a global leader in tech law, advising major tech and life sciences companies on complex, cross-border transactions. Specializing in AI, interactive media, semiconductors, and next-gen vehicles, its U.S.-based team collaborates with offices in Asia and Europe. Recently, the firm advised on Rivian’s joint venture with Volkswagen and SoftBank’s investment in autonomous driving. Practice-head and global powerhouse, Tessa Schwartz , is an IP and commercial agreements expert, who leads the AI rgoup and advises on complex M&A. William Schwartz  has stellar expertise in transactions related to computers, communications equipment and wireless devices. Similarly, Aaron Rubin , chair of the Technology Transactions Group and co-chair of the Interactive + Digital Media Group, is a leading expert in structuring and negotiating high-stakes IP and technology transactions. Rubin advises top-tier clients across diverse sectors, including AI, software, SaaS, digital media, and healthcare, providing strategic guidance on licensing, development, collaboration, and procurement deals. Partner Justin Haan  specializes in tech deals and cutting-edge technologies, including AI and autonomous systems. Matthew Karlyn, based in Boston, brings experience in healthcare, pharma, and tech-related IP and licensing transactions.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP advises on transactions like patent acquisitions, licensing deals, and data privacy, as well as handling technology and IP issues in M&A, private equity, banking, finance, and restructuring matters. Advising Fortune 100 tech companies, it is known for its expertise in complex, high-stakes transactions. The practice also specializes in areas like AI licensing and cross-border transactions, making it a go-to firm for clients navigating the evolving technology and IP landscape. Charan Sandhu, head of the team, is active in complex IP deals and innovative licensing models. Jeffrey Osterman departed the team in March 2025 to Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP.

Baker McKenzie LLP advises global and domestic companies on complex tech matters, from systems procurement to cutting-edge technologies like AI, blockchain, and machine learning. With expertise in integration agreements, IT joint ventures, and tech-driven M&A aspects, it excels in IP, data security, e-commerce, and online advertising, offering strategic privacy and compliance guidance. Samuel Kramner specializes in cross-border outsourcing, IT licensing, and FinTech, while Adam Aft  focuses on IP, data, and tech in M&A, and joint ventures. The two are based in Chicago. Cynthia Cole, based in Palo Alto, advises on data privacy, cybersecurity, and compliance with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and GDPR in M&A and other corporate transactions.

With deep connections to the the tech industry, and Silicon Valley roots, DLA Piper LLP (US)   has cultivated a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by startups, innovators, and established tech giants alike. Victoria Lee in Silicon Valley is a highly regarded expert in technology and IP, trusted by both emerging and global tech companies for strategic guidance on product development and monetization. Dallas-based Mark Lehberg has extensive experience in emerging technologies. Additionally, Elizabeth ‘Betsy’ Burkhard  specializes in intellectual property and technology transactions, including licensing, due diligence, IT outsourcing, and advising on M&A, while also providing pro bono services to nonprofits supporting children, veterans, and cancer patients.

 

Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP‘s New York-based practice has notable experience in navigating tech-related disputes, particularly those involving AI and copyright, such as its recent representation of Bloomberg in a landmark class action regarding the use of copyrighted materials in training AI models. The firm also excels in high-profile M&A, investments, and partnerships. Amir Ghavi and Katelyn Katsuki have departed the team.

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP  advises clients on M&A, investments, and financing in tech-centric sectors, offering end-to-end support from technology development and licensing to IP protection, ownership, and monetization. Co-chaired by Daniel Angel, an IP expert, the practice serves a diverse range of clients, from market leaders to start-ups in industries like financial services, life sciences, and telecoms. Angel specializes in complex licensing, technology collaborations, and strategic IP agreements. Meghan Hungate, an emerging leader in IP and technology transactions, advises public and private companies, as well as financial sponsors, on M&A, outsourcing, global branding, and IP licensing.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP advises high-profile clients across industries like healthcare, finance, and consumer products. Doneld Shelkey  and Barbara Melby are pivotal to the firm’s success, leading complex deals, strategic partnerships, and emerging technology issues. Shelkey, based in Boston, shapes strategy and advises clients on high-stakes tech transactions, leveraging his expertise in cloud, data analytics, and robotics, with deals involving Silicon Valley giants. Melby, based in Philadelphia, is active across a wide range of tech and outsourcing deals.

White & Case LLP has a strong record in tech transactions, headed by Arlene Arin Hahn , a recognized expert in IP, M&A and standalone transactions. Erin Hanson focuses on IP creation, licensing, and commercialization, and is a co-head of the firm's AI group. Yixin Gong, a rising star with experience in both Australia and the US, has worked on major transactions for Meta, WhatsApp, Square, and Slack.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP‘s technology, IP and commercial transactions practice stands out for its ability to handle sophisticated and global deals, representing some of the most prominent tech and life sciences companies. Its extensive experience spans sectors, including telecommunications, software, biotech, and media, advising on everything from M&A to licensing and joint ventures. Since the launch of its Palo Alto office by Matthew Berger and Tiffany Lee, the practice has expanded into emerging areas such as blockchain, neurotechnology, and AI, bringing in high-profile clients like Meta Platforms and TikTok. Berger advises clients in high technology industries such as alternative energy industries, life sciences and the semiconductor. Lee has advising clients on IP matters and drafting agreements in areas such as development, licensing, manufacturing, distribution, and others across industries including healthcare and media & entertainment.

Baker Botts L.L.P. advises clients ranging from emerging startups to global giants across sectors like Digital Infrastructure, Life Sciences, and Energy Tech. With expertise in venture capital, M&A, AI, and cybersecurity, the firm offers a full spectrum of services, led by Jonathan Gordon, global head of the tech and M&A teams, and Samantha Hale Crispin , chair of the corporate department. Based in New York and Dallas, respectively, Gordon specializes in cross-border acquisitions, joint ventures, and partnerships, while Crispin focuses on complex M&A, capital markets, and strategic transactions.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has a track record in handling complex, high-value technology transactions with global reach. With offices in key US tech hubs like Palo Alto and San Francisco, it provides sophisticated legal guidance in AI, digital assets, and cloud computing. It regularly manages large technology M&A deals while navigating regulatory challenges with the SEC, FTC, and DOJ. In New York, Daniel Ilan advises global tech companies on IP, generative AI, and data issues, with clients including Google, Synopsys, and T-Mobile. In San Francisco, Marcela Robledo leads high-profile technology transactions, including Instacart’s strategic partnership with Uber Eats.

Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP represents both startups and global tech giants, the firm tackles cutting-edge issues in AI, blockchain, robotics, and more. Its cross-disciplinary team excels in managing complex transactions, particularly in intellectual property, while staying ahead of regulatory changes. Notable figures include David Kappos, former Under Secretary of Commerce and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, who has shaped IP policy, and Sasha Rosenthal-Larrea, a sought-after expert in IP, data privacy, and technology, advising top companies like Amazon, Disney, and Johnson & Johnson.

 

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP specializes in M&A, joint ventures, cybersecurity, and IP risk assessments. Led by Menachem Kaplan , the team advises major clients like Aston Martin, eBay, Uber, ServiceNow, and Google, handling high-profile deals and driving growth. Kaplan has built a stellar reputation, advising Zuora on its $1.7bn acquisition by Silver Lake. He works closely with Denny Kwon, who joined in April 2024 and is based in Silicon Valley. Also in Silicon Valley, Marissa Yu advises on complex data, cybersecurity, and IP matters, including major deals involving IP, licensing, and acquisitions.

Under the leadership of partner Audrey Haroz Reed, Hogan Lovells US LLP IP and tech transactions team excels in helping clients navigate the rapidly changing tech landscape. The team advises on licensing, commercialization, partnerships, and corporate transactions. Notable work includes advising the University of Idaho on its $550m acquisition of the University of Phoenix. The team’s deep industry expertise and understanding of diverse stakeholder perspectives allow it to craft innovative solutions for business growth. Alongside Reed, key team members include Meryl Rosen Bernstein   in New York, specializing in high-value tech transactions in e-commerce and custom software, and Cullen G. Taylor in Northern Virginia, who advised Daiichi Sankyo on the largest pharma license transaction ever.

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP is active in the technology sector, helping clients navigate a fast-evolving landscape. The firm advises a broad range of clients from startups to industry leaders. Notably,  Justin Hovey in San Francisco provides exceptional counsel to entrepreneurs, investors, and emerging companies in the video game, esports, social media, and entertainment sectors on startup formation, venture financing, M&A, and corporate governance. Additionally, Deborah Thoren-Peden  – in the LA office, co-leads several teams and specializes in banking, privacy, AML, and electronic payments – advising fintech companies, financial institutions, and retailers on regulatory compliance, money transmission, and payment systems.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP’s team, led by Lori Lesser in New York, advises clients on a range of issues related to patents, AI, software, privacy, and cybersecurity, ensuring smooth deal execution. The team combines expertise in M&A, private equity, banking, IP, and cybersecurity to advise tech giants, startups, and investors. In New York, Marisa Geiger is a recognized leader in IP and technology transactions, guiding clients through complex corporate deals and strategic alliances. In Los Angeles, Ron Ben-Yehuda has great experience in intellectual property transactions, including licensing, joint ventures, and M&A.

 

WilmerHale‘s tech team advises on complex tech transactions and licensing, specializing in M&A, outsourcing, venture capital, and technology licensing. In the Boston office, senior partner Jeff Johnson , co-chair of the technology transactions practice, advises on a wide range of tech transactions. Ariel Soiffer and Elese Hanson  also bring expertise, with Soiffer focusing on machine learning, AI, privacy, and fintech, and Hanson advising on pharma, biotech, digital health, medical tech, finance, and software.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner has experienced impressive growth over the past year, strengthened by strategic hires such Valerie Paverd in the New York office, expanding its coast-to-coast capabilities. Led by Marcus Pearl , the team’s expertise in digital transformation and AI allows for innovative, tailored solutions across industries. With a focus on efficiency and technology, it excels in outsourcing and tech transactions. Anne Friedman is a recognized leader in outsourcing, while Paverd enhances the firm’s expertise in outsourcing, digital transformation, and cross-border tech transactions. Darian Mendez combines in-house and private practice experience to play a key role in complex technology, IP, and commercial transactions.

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP has a strong record in emerging tech, advising on a wide range of tech-related issues, including transactions, IP, AI, Internet of Things, and cybersecurity. The team advises clients across industries such as e-commerce, mobile tech, software licensing, and privacy and has worked with prominent companies such Google, guiding them through complex matters from enterprise IT contracts to M&A. Jeffrey Harvey  in Richmond is adept in outsourcing transactions, offering expert guidance on e-commerce, commercial agreements, AI, and cutting-edge tech solutions for top global brands.

Loeb & Loeb LLP has expertise in AI, blockchain, and cloud computingovides strategic guidance on technology transactions, licensing, data security, and regulatory challenges and has a strong focus on AI. Kenneth Adler in New York brings deep experience in outsourcing and technology transactions, specializing in AI, cloud computing, and IT agreements. Akiba Stern, also in New York, has experience advising clients on outsourcing, technology transactions, e-commerce, licensing, and intellectual property, with experience both in-house and at law firms.

Mayer Brown assists clients with digital innovation, specializing in cloud services, IoT, data licensing, cybersecurity, and M&A. The team combines legal and technical IT expertise to navigate complex transactions. Co-leader Richard Assmus , who specializes in trademarks, represented Dow in a strategic alliance with Carbice to develop thermal interface materials. Nina Flax , based in Palo Alto, co-leads the practice and advised HCL Technologies on a $225m acquisition from Hewlett Packard.

Norton Rose Fulbright’s tech team specializes in outsourcing, IP, cybersecurity, fintech, and AI. Led by Sean Christy, with Chuck Hollis also a key name, the team advises clients from emerging tech startups to multinational corporations, the team excels in navigating complex technology and regulatory challenges.

The TMT-focused team at Proskauer Rose LLP advises on complex technology transactions and providing strategic counsel on mergers, e-commerce, licensing, and emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and Big Data, working with standard clients including WWE and Major League Soccer. Jeffrey Neuburger , based in New York, is recognized as a leading blockchain expert.

Ropes & Gray LLP stands out for its broad expertise in managing high-stakes transactions across digital health, AI, blockchain, and fintech. Jackie Cohen , based in New York, advises on transactions across industries and specializes in shareholder activism, takeover defense, and corporate governance. Jordan Altman , also in New York, leads IP transactions, focusing on licensing, M&A, and strategic alliances, with expertise in AI, big data, and telecom. Altman also advises on patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP has broad experience across software, healthcare-IT, fashion, retail, and more. With specialists in corporate law, intellectual property, and media, the team offers practical guidance on complex transactions such as outsourcing, licensing, and joint ventures. Brian Anderson , a distinguished leader in San Francisco, brings deep expertise in intellectual property and commercial transactions, helping domestic and international companies and entrepreneurs optimize and commercialize their technology.