Telecoms and broadcast: regulatory in United States

DLA Piper LLP (US)

Operating out of Washington DC, DLA Piper LLP (US) maintains an eminent market position through a combination of a strong state regulatory practice, particularly before the CPUC but also appearing in state forums more broadly; an expert engineering practice, employing the industry insights of experienced engineers in regulatory work in cutting-edge telecoms technology; and access to the broader firm’s global resources, leveraging them in cases of foreign ownership and matters of international scope. Satellite, space, and national security are also major and growing areas of activity for the team, with the wider firm’s global satellite practice operating from the DC practice. Co-lead Michael Senkowski is prominent in the telecoms regulatory space, working across satellite, telephony, and spectrum; he is also working alongside co-lead Nancy Victory on the ongoing integration and compliance issues of the T-Mobile merger with Sprint, Victory bringing her experience working with major carriers on the regulatory aspects of M&A, foreign ownership, and enforcement matters. Other lawyers of note include Eric DeSilva, whose focus on wireless cuts across policy, spectrum work, and cutting-edge issues in 5G and private LTE; Edward Smith, who is highly active in the wireless and satellite sectors, and coordinates the firm’s global efforts in regulatory work; Peter Karanjia, who brings his expertise in administrative litigation to telecoms and technology; Tony Lin, who specializes in securing licenses for novel space-based services; and Kristin Jacobson, whose experience practicing before the CPUC and other state utility commissions is of value to clients operating on the West Coast.

Practice head(s):

Michael Senkowski; Nancy Victory


Other key lawyers:

Eric DeSilva; Edward Smith; Peter Karanjia; Tony Lin; Kristin Jacobson


Testimonials

‘Deep knowledge within the Team, creative strategists and great collaborators.’

‘Collegiality and confidence.’

‘Unique understanding and insights of FCC policy and its intersection with the State regulatory regime.’

‘Peter Karanjia is a great litigator, synthesizing complex topics into easy to comprehend sound bites that have a meaningful impact on the court.’

Great expertise and experience, and extremely responsive.

Very strong writers, great problem solvers, and they know the industry and regulatory environment.’

Key clients

T-Mobile US, Inc.


Peerless Network, Inc.


Metro Fibernet, LLC


NetChoice


MetroPCS


National Urban League


The Aspen Institute


Globalstar, Inc.


Momentus Inc.


Astroscale US Inc.


Twilio Inc.


CTIA


Planet Labs PBC


Work highlights


  • Advised T-Mobile US regarding the nationwide sunset of CDMA technology on its network despite  objections from DISH in multiple federal and state fora.
  • Avising several global satellite companies regarding the applicable regulatory and legal requirements for deployment of their global satellite services around the world.
  • Advised Peerless Network, Inc. on its sale to Infobip Ltd., involving regulatory approvals in multiple federal fora and state regulatory commissions.

Hogan Lovells US LLP

Hogan Lovells US LLP is prominent in the telecoms and broadcast space for both its end-to-end capabilities, able to provide comprehensive representation to clients in all stages of their regulatory and transactional mandates, and its broad geographical reach, being well-placed to advise clients on complex, cross-border matters. The regulatory team has been bolstered by multiple new additions, with Katy Milner joining from Wiley Rein LLP in September 2022, specializing in wireless carriers and Internet of Things; senior counsel Charles Mathias, who brings his experience as former Deputy Chief in the FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau; and senior director David Fritz, who employs his expertise as a technical engineer in the telecoms industry alongside his regulatory expertise to assist clients within the service provider space. Ari Fitzgerald heads the Washington DC-based team, with experience working in the FCC and the Department of Justice that he brings to bear on the full-range of spectrum-related mandates amongst his broader communications practice, working alongside Mark Brennan, whose expertise in technology leads to a focus on compliance and data protection. Michele Farquhar is noted for her experience serving at the FCC, NTIA, and CTIA that she uses to advise in spectrum auctions and licensing, compliance matters, and issues related to cutting-edge technologies. Also of note are the transactional team comprised of Steven Kaufman, Randy Segal, and Alexis Sáinz, whose work complements the regulatory practice.

Practice head(s):

Ari Fitzgerald; Mark Brennan


Other key lawyers:

Michele Farquhar; Steven Kaufman; Randy Segal; Alexis Sainz; George John; Ryan Thompson; Katy Milner; Charles Mathias


Testimonials

Strong industry knowledge and experience. Done a lot of first-of-a-kind work in the satellite industry.’

George John has done an excellent job at supporting our satellite licensing legal work. He’s responsive and knowledgeable.’

Deep knowledge of US (FCC) regulatory system, rules, regulations and processes. High level attention from senior partners and full complement of able associates and of counsel. Also has the depth as a firm to support international transactions with regulatory component with firm partners or affiliated firms in countries where Hogan doesn’t have offices. Able to handle complex long-term regulatory strategies as well as routine matters with a high level of attention.

Huge appreciation to Ari Fitzgerald (partner) and Ryan Thompson (associate). Deep knowledge of issues involving the company’s long regulatory process. Invaluable support to other related non-regulatory matters (e.g. appellate litigation) that Hogan is representing us on.’

Key clients

TelevisaUnivision


Boingo Wireless


Fortinet


GSSI


Association of American Railroads


Railroad consortium PTC-220


Columbia Capital


SNR Wireless


Vodafone and Vodafone Americas


T-Mobile US


Barings LLC


NextNav Inc.


SES


Drone Racing League


Gogo LLC


Advance Publications


EchoStar


US Chamber of Commerce


American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management


Morgan Stanley


Work highlights


  • Represented T-Mobile in its successful participation in the FCC’s 3.45-55 GHz spectrum auction, in which it acquired mid-band 5G spectrum worth US$2.9 billion.
  • Represented NextNav, a leader in next generation GPS and 3D geolocation, in its US$1.2 billion global business combination with Spartacus Acquisition Corporation.
  • Represent the Drone Racing League, the world’s premier, professional, drone racing league, on FCC spectrum policy and licensing matters.

Latham & Watkins LLP

Latham & Watkins LLP has combined its telecoms and broadcast practice with its privacy, copyright, and security team, producing an interdisciplinary approach in handling complex mandates where regulatory and data privacy issues intersect. The team boasts a strong litigation component across its regulatory and data protection work, being well-placed to represent major market players in contentious matters before regulatory bodies in enforcement actions and rulemakings; the practice also has significant transactional capabilities, which when coupled with the broad geographical footprint of the wider firm, makes the team suitably equipped to provide exhaustive assistance to clients operating in the telecoms space. Matthew Brill chairs the practice, which is based in Washington DC, providing leading regulatory and litigation expertise across the full range of matters from traditional broadcast to emerging tech, with a track record in representing high-profile members of the industry in federal and state rulemaking and enforcement proceedings. He works alongside the global chair James Barker , whose focus is on the regulatory component of high-profile transactions across the wireless, cable, satellite, and telephony sectors. Other lawyers of note are Matthew Murchison, whose capabilities cut across regulatory, litigation, and transactional, frequently representing clients in the telecoms and broadcast space before the FCC; and Sarang Damle, who brings a unique focus on copyright to the practice.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Brill; James Barker


Other key lawyers:

Matthew Murchison; Sarang Damle; Elizabeth Park; Alli Stillman


Key clients

The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.


CableLabs


CBS Sports


ESPN


Fox Sports


NBC Sports


New England Sports Network


Turner Sports


Boston Red Sox


Charter Communications


Comcast Corporation


Communications Processing Systems, Inc.


Cox Communications, Inc.


Digital Licensee Coordinator, Inc.


Einride AB


LICT Corporation


Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.


National Association of Broadcasters


NCTA


Netflix


Roblox


Wiley Rein LLP

Operating from Washington DC, Wiley Rein LLP advises significant market players across the full range of the telecoms and broadcast sector, working with established operators, investors, manufacturers, and infrastructure providers in the industry while also assisting tech companies seeking to leverage their platforms to provide novel communications services. While the team retains its expertise representing clients before the FCC, the firm has broadened its practice to encompass a number of cutting-edge developments in the market, with an established presence advising on unmanned vehicles and space-based projects, as well as strengthening its offering in data privacy, national security, and representation more generally before the FTC.  The firm’s focus on the satellite and space domain is illustrated by the promotion of Jennifer Hindin to co-chair alongside Kathleen Kirby, bringing her expertise as an eminent figure in the sector with substantial experience in issues relating to regulatory approval for major transactions, spectrum, licensing, and general operations. The practice is also bolstered by the May 2022 return of Craig Sperling, who served as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel for a major broadcaster and has corresponding experience on all aspects of media and broadcast businesses. Other lawyers of note include Claire Evans, who focusses on telecoms infrastructure; Christopher Huther, who is active in relation to disputes in this space, and issues arising from 5G technology and related infrastructure; Joshua Turner, who has experience representing clients before the FCC, FAA, and other federal agencies; and Scott Delacourt, who specialises in wireless and data privacy.

Practice head(s):

Kathleen Kirby; Jennifer Hindin


Other key lawyers:

Craig Sperling; Claire Evans; Christopher Huther; Joshua Turner; Scott Delacourt


Testimonials

‘The team has incredible depth and breadth of knowledge. They’re responsive, and their advice is strategically honed to the needs of their clients.’

‘Jennifer Hindin provides in-depth knowledge of niche satellite issues. She is pragmatic, plain-spoken, and knows how to get things done. Joshua Turner exhibits a diverse skill set. Whether arguing in appellate courts, crafting FCC advocacy strategies, or composing memoranda that paint a clear risk management picture, Josh is a valued asset to his clients.’

‘The team is composed of highly complementary people that can address a multitude of issues and provide enough depth for each issue to produce excellent work product.’

Key clients

AT&T


CTIA-The Wireless Association


Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International


Intelsat


Maxar


Motorola Solutions


Nokia


Satellite Industry Association


T-Mobile


Verizon Communications


Virgin Galactic


Marriott


Work highlights


  • Advising on regulatory, cybersecurity/privacy, national security, and supply chain legal matters and litigate cases for CTIA.
  • Advising Volkswagen in relation to compliance with FCC rules that cover the technology in its cars.
  • Acting on behalf of AUVSI, fighting proposals by the Uniform Law Commission to introduce a law that would impose trespass restrictions on low-altitude unmanned aircraft systems.

Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP

Washington DC-based Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP works exclusively in the domain of communications and related tech, the team’s broad capabilities extending from infrastructure deployment and policy to issues of privacy and national security. The strong regulatory practice, drawing on the extensive collective experience of the team from working in the FCC and other regulatory bodies, complements the firm’s other work to provide across the board assistance covering the regulatory, corporate, and transactional matters for its numerous market-leading clients. The practice is co-headed by Bryan Tramont, who is well-versed in representing both established and start-up companies operating in the space before the FCC given his experience working under a former FCC Chairman, and Christine Crowe, who leads the team in their infrastructure and siting mandates. The firm has a large team to draw upon, including Adam Krinsky, who has a particular focus on transaction approval before the FCC in the spectrum and wireless spaces; Jennifer Tatel, who supplements her regulatory work in telecoms with a wider expertise in media; Ken Satten, whose work covers the full sweep of broadcast matters; and Phil Marchesiello, whose combined corporate and telecoms practice makes him well-placed to represent clients in the regulatory components of infrastructure and structuring transactions.

Practice head(s):

Bryan Tramont; Christine Crowe


Other key lawyers:

Adam Krinksy; Jennifer Tatel; Ken Satten; Phil Marchesiello; L. Charles Keller; Brian Murray; Anne Swanson


Testimonials

‘One of the top TMT firms in Washington, DC.’

‘Bryan Tramont is one of the best. Chuck Keller knows the wireline sector in and out. Brian Murray always gives great advice. Jennifer Tatel is steeped in TMT law.’

‘Pre-eminent communications law boutique law firm with a great depth of experience.’

Key clients

Verizon


Comcast Corporation


Cox Enterprises, Inc.


DISH Network


CTIA


USTelecom


Wireless Infrastructure Clients


Iridium Communications Inc.


Cybersecurity and supply chain security clients


ATN International, Inc.


Consumer Technology Association


AURA Network Systems OpCo, LLC


Broadcast Regulatory Clients


HC2 Broadcasting


Ariel Alternatives, LLC


Mobilitie, LLC


Work highlights


  • Represented Verizon in its nearly $7 billion acquisition of TracFone Wireless, Inc.
  • Assisted Ariel to acquire control of Sorenson Communications, LLC and its subsidiary CaptionCall.
  • Advising a wide variety of clients on cybersecurity, supply chain security, and trusted supplier issues that have arisen in multiple venues.

Cooley LLP

Based in Washington DC, Cooley LLP has a strong track record advising clients on matters relating to television and radio broadcasting, representing several notable clients before the FCC on their business-critical transactions, while also growing its capabilities in the space and satellite sector. The team is able to call upon the resources of the broader firm for its regulatory work in major transactions, namely the competition practice, with the firm’s telecoms capabilities being bolstered by the September 2022 addition of Kathy O’Neill and her substantial experience in a top civil position at the Department of Justice Antitrust Division and broader knowledge of the telecoms space. Co-chair of the practice Robert McDowell leverages his experience as a former FCC commissioner to provide expert representation for clients in the regulatory aspects of complex M&A transactions, and also advises on issues relating to novel technology, space, and satellite. His co-lead Michael Basile remains extremely active in the television and radio broadcast space, particularly in relation to the regulatory aspects of M&A, financing, and commercial transactions within the industry more broadly, having been instrumental in a number of the most high-profile deals in the sector. Travis LeBlanc, as a former Enforcement Bureau Chief, brings further valuable experience to the firm’s regulatory practice with his focus on national security matters.

Practice head(s):

Michael Basile; Robert McDowell


Other key lawyers:

Travis LeBlanc; John Feore; Kathy O’Neill


Key clients

Apollo Global Management, Inc


Gray Television


CBS/Fox Affiliate Associations


Meredith


EchoStar/Hughes


Axiom Space


TWN Communications


Iridium Communications


Ribbon Communications


Competitive Carriers Association


Midcontinent Communications


Americans for Tax Reform


Block Communications


Work highlights


  • Represented Apollo and Apollo’s Cox Media Group portfolio company in their participation in the purchase by Standard General of leading television broadcaster TEGNA Inc.
  • Advising Gray Television on enforcement proceedings, television transactions, antitrust support and representation before the FCC on its pending Quadrennial Review of the media ownership rules.
  • Representing CBS and Fox television affiliate associations of 300 commercial television stations throughout the country and represents the associations before the FCC, DOJ and Capitol Hill.

Dentons

Dentons provides a strong offering for international clients seeking to develop and operate cutting-edge tech within the telecoms sector, combining a global coverage achieved through cross-practice, multi-jurisdictional teams with the practice’s focus on regulatory issues arising from such tech, with a track record of work relating to autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence. The firm has established capabilities in securing licenses, developing compliance programs, vetting market strategies, developing privacy and data security policies, and representing clients before federal, state, and local regulatory bodies, having done so for a number of blue-chip clients in relation to their novel products and services. The team is headed by Todd Daubert, who employs his background as an engineer in the industry to advise on both traditional telecoms and cutting-edge tech, providing both strategic and regulatory advice across these spaces. Senior managing associate Lauren Wilson is notable for her experience as a legal advisor within the FCC, advising a range of clients on issues of compliance with FCC rules.

Practice head(s):

Todd Daubert


Other key lawyers:

Lauren Wilson


Key clients

T-Mobile US, Inc.


Pincay RE and STADCO LLC


Pure IP Limited


North American Portability Management LLC


Netfortris Corporation


Pivotal Home Solutions and affiliates


Work highlights


  • Represented T-Mobile in the negotiation of a 12-year tower and small cell agreement with Crown Castle International to support the continued deployment of T-Mobile’s 5G network.
  • Advising Pincay RE and STADCO LLC on the new SoFi stadium in Inglewood, California, including the development and sale of DAS and 5G systems and the deployment of innovative new technologies.
  • Provided strategic and regulatory advice to Pure IP in its successful market entry into the United States and various negotiations over regulatory compliance and commercial terms.

Jones Day

Jones Day represents clients on the full range of matters in the telecoms sector, leveraging the firm’s global network of telecoms, cybersecurity, and data privacy teams, with a particularly strong offering in satellites, national security, and regulatory issues concerning telecoms that arise from bankruptcy. The firm’s prominent market position in the M&A space also feeds into the firm’s telecoms regulatory practice, the team being well-placed to represent clients on the regulatory aspects of transactional mandates. Donald McGahn heads the firm’s practice on government regulation. Of particular note is Bruce Olcott with his long-running focus on the satellite space and corresponding track record of securing the necessary regulatory approvals from the FCC, NOAA, and related regulatory bodies. Other notable members of the team include Jennifer Everett, who as undertaken numerous high-profile mandates in cybersecurity and data privacy in the telecoms industry; Brett Shumate, who employs his significant litigation experience in the regulatory space; and Schuyler Schouten, whose experience working in the White House is leveraged to assist clients in matters touching national security and foreign investment. Lawyers are in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Practice head(s):

Donald McGahn


Other key lawyers:

Bruce Alcott; Brett Shumate; Jennifer Everett; Schyler Schouten


Key clients

Verizon Communications


The Boeing Company


Ad Hoc Intelsat Jackson Unsecured Noteholders Group


Colt Technology Services


Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems, Inc.


KVH Industries


NextNav LLC


Teledyne Technologies


PIMCO Investment Management Company


National Republican Senatorial Committee


Five9 Inc.


Global VSAT Forum


Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre


Oncor Electric


State of Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Advocacy


Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.


Oklahoma Gas & Electric


Work highlights


  • Representing the largest block of creditors in securing regulatory and national security approvals in multiple countries for their assumption of equity ownership and effective control of Intelsat.
  • Assisting a major Catholic Diocese in the U.S. with the planned auction of spectrum assets licensed to the Diocese in the New York area to raise funds to compensate tort victims.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

From the Washington DC practice, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP represents a number of hi-tech and international companies in the regulatory aspects of major transactions in the telecoms space, with a large and growing volume of work relating to infrastructure in the sector. The team’s particular specialisation in assisting foreign-owned companies has been further developed by David Plotinsky, who applies his experience working in the US Department of Justice and the FCC to national security and international matters, just as the October 2022 return of Denise Wood from an in-house position with a leading tech company strengthens the practice’s hand in advising other such clients. The team is led by the highly-experienced practice head Andrew D. Lipman and deputy practice head Catherine Wang, who uses her corporate expertise in her focus on the regulatory aspects of M&A and financing transactions. Other lawyers of note are Ulises Pin, whose track record in Latin America makes him a highly-sought authority in cross-border mandates concerning investment, infrastructure, and foreign ownership; Tamar Finn, who is active in universal service and broadband funding; and Ronald Del Sesto, Jr, who bolsters the telecoms team with his experience leading the firm’s technology group.


Practice head(s):

Andrew D. Lipman; Catherine Wang


Other key lawyers:

David Plotinsky; Denise Wood; Ulises Pin; Tamar Finn; Ronald Del Sesto Jr.


Key clients

China Telecom Americas Corporation


Zayo Group Holdings, Inc.


DigitalBridge Group, Inc.


Huawei Technologies


Cincinnati Bell


Hawaiian Telecom


John Deere & Co.


OneWeb


Consolidated Communications Holding, Inc.


Uniti Group


Globenet Cabos Submarinos S.A.


HRL Morrison & Co.


Shure, Incorporated


Hawaiki Submarine Cable LP


EQT AB


Inteliquent


GI Partners Acquisitions LLC


Apollo Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised China Telecom (Americas) Corporation on telecommunications regulatory and related national security issues regarding its regulated operations in the US.
  • Advised DigitalBridge Group, Inc. on its acquisition of Switch, Inc. for $11 billion USD and its acquisition of a majority stake in GD towers for €10.7 billion EUR.
  • Advised OneWeb on its acquisition of TrustComm Inc., a Texas-based provider of managed satellite communications for an undisclosed amount.

Paul Hastings LLP

Paul Hastings LLP acts across both cutting-edge and established aspects of the industry, working on traditional telecoms and broadcasting matters as well as novel issues surrounding new technologies and streaming; many of the firm’s clients are major industry players that rely on the team’s expertise on the intersection of broadcast and streaming, the practice representing these companies on first-of-their-kind issues in this space regarding policy, licensing, and strategy before the FCC. Practice head Sherrese Smith leads the Washington DC-based team; as former Chief Counsel to the Chairman of the FCC, she is well-versed in regulatory and policy advice, and combines her extensive telecoms experience in both the private and public sectors with a notable privacy and data security practice. She frequently works alongside Associate John Gasparini, who similarly brings an interdisciplinary focus on both data privacy and telecoms issues, working on both the regulatory aspects of complex telecoms transactions and enforcement proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Sherrese Smith


Other key lawyers:

John Gasparini


Testimonials

‘Sherrese Smith is an outstanding lawyer and practitioner.’

‘Deep knowledge of the FCC and the real-world interaction of business and FCC regulation.’

‘Sherrese Smith is superb and brings keen business judgment, a savvy strategic sensibility, and real-world experience in the corridors of the FCC.’

Key clients

TEGNA


National Association of Broadcasters


Fox Corporation


EchoStar Corporation


Bank of America


Providence Equity Partners


Cox Enterprises


AT&T (BellSouth Telecommunications)


Novacap Technologies


Work highlights


  • Advising Providence Equity Partners in receiving FCC and Team Telecom approval for its USD1 billion acquisition of a controlling interest in Marlink.
  • Representing National Association of Broadcasters as its primary sources of outside counsel on FCC regulatory issues including retransmission consent, media ownership, and other issues.
  • Representing Cox Communications in the FCC’s realignment of the C Band for 5G, including advocating for critical policy changes to support Cox’s strategic content delivery plans.

Arnold & Porter

Arnold & Porter is very active in representing public broadcasting stations in both television and radio, advising clients who operate in this space across the country on the full range of of regulatory matters, including issues of policy, spectrum, and licensing. The team also has a strong track record in representing clients on the regulatory aspect of major transactional work, advising AT&T and WarnerMedia as US and international regulatory and antitrust counsel on matters arising from the market-leading WarnerMedia merger with Discovery. Maureen Jeffreys chairs the Washington DC-based practice with experience in regulatory, transactional, and litigation mandates before the FCC and NTIA, and in strategic counselling on federal policy developments across the telecoms and broadband space. She works alongside senior counsel Peter Schildkraut, whose key areas of specialism include broadband, AI, and transactional work, and senior counsel Scott Fiera, who has represented clients before the FCC on merger reviews, licence transfer proceedings, service agreements, and consumer protection.

Practice head(s):

Maureen Jeffreys


Other key lawyers:

Peter Schildkraut; Scott Feira


Key clients

Public Media Group of Southern California


KQED Inc.


North Texas Public Broadcasting, Inc.


Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications Association


Digital Promise Global


AT&T and Warner Bros. Discovery


Work highlights


  • Advising major public broadcast stations across the country on rules and polices related to indecency, underwriting, closed captioning, cable-carriage, equal employment opportunity, IP, and other issues.
  • Advising Digital Promise Global on a range of legal issues, as the organization advances digital education technology polices and implements programs.
  • Advised AT&T/WarnerMedia on the regulatory aspects of the merger of WarnerMedia’s premium entertainment, sports, and news assets and Discovery’s nonfiction and international entertainment and sports businesses.

Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

Operating primarily from Washington DC, Kelley Drye & Warren LLP exemplifies its depth of expertise in the sector through the large number major telecoms and broadcast trade associations that it routinely advises on regulatory mandates. The team has also become increasingly integrated with the firm’s privacy practice, particularly counsel Michael Dover, providing a strong offering in national security and data privacy matters. Tom Cohen leads the practice with a history of representing clients in respect of a wide-range of issues before the FCC, FTC, and state regulatory bodies, working alongside the Chicago-based Hank Kelly, who has experience in telecoms litigation across multiple states, and Chip Yorkgitis, who is active in spectrum allocation and management.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Cohen


Other key lawyers:

Michael Dover; Hank Kelly; Chip Yorkgitis


Key clients

Peerless Network, Inc.


Q LINK Wireless, LLC


DID Central LLC


Q LINK Wireless, LLC


Peerless Network, Inc.


Five9


Atlantic Metro Communications, Inc.


365 Data Centers, Inc.


S-Net Communication, Inc.


ACA Connects


Peerless Network, LLC


Atlantic Tele-Network


Fiber Broadband Association


Work highlights


  • Supported the Fiber Broadband Association’s before the FCC and states to remove barriers to broadband deployment and obtain funding for fiber networks in rural areas.
  • Advised Telin USA on the ramifications of prospective business plans from United States regulatory law as well as a 2016 National Security Agreement.
  • Advising ACA Connects on regulatory issues, involving advocacy before the FCC such as drafting comments and participating in the meeting with FCC Commissioners and staff.

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP has established itself in the satellite domain, representing high-profile market players before the FCC in respect of a range of business-critical spectrum mandates, including compliance with FCC programs, spectrum auctions, and contentious proceedings. The practice has a global reach to match that of its clients, but also has experience working with national operators in relation to infrastructure deployment and assisting regional broadcasters with their regulatory needs. Brian Weimer heads the Washington DC-based practice with a focus on satellite operators and investors in satellite and wireless, representing such clients before the FCC and ITU on a range of mandates, namely the regulatory approval of transactions. Dave Thomas focusses on the deployment and operations of wire-based and wireless networks and services, working at the federal, state, and local levels of regulation. Paul Werner brings his extensive litigation experience to the practice, representing domestic and international providers in state and federal trial courts and advising them on a range of policy issues arising from novel tech.

Practice head(s):

Brian Weimer


Other key lawyers:

Dave Thomas; Paul Werner


Key clients

SES S.A.


OneWeb


Charter Communications


Peloton


Snap


Astra Capital Management


Piper Networks


Susan L. Uecker, Receiver


Comcast Communications


Cox Communications


New England Cable & Telecommunications Association, Inc.


Ohio Cable Telecommunications Association


LCTA


Maine Cable Association


Vero Fiber Networks


San Diego Gas & Electric


Work highlights


  • Representing SES S.A. in the FCC’s efforts to convert the “C-Band spectrum” from satellite to terrestrial use.
  • Advised OneWeb’s as principal regulatory counsel within the United States and abroad, as it nears the final stages of deploying its first generation low-Earth orbit satellite network.
  • Represented Peloton before the FCC and accessibility groups concerning a waiver filed with respect to the accessibility of its fitness products, securing a favourable outcome.

Steptoe LLP

Steptoe LLP has carved out a niche in representing both new and established players in telecoms and broadcast against market incumbents before the FCC, operating closely with the firm’s competition practice in opposing high-profile mergers on behalf of clients. The firm has been active in spectrum issues related to 5G, 6G, and the satellite sector; resisting franchise fees on online services; representing program carriers against market-leading competition; and antitrust work relating to the telecoms sector. Heading the Washington DC-based practice, Pantelis Michalopoulos has an established track record before the FCC and other federal agencies on a range of market-shaping regulatory matters, with a particular focus on net neutrality and the regulatory aspect of major M&A within the sector. Counsel Christopher Bjornson also works on these M&A mandates alongside other telecoms transactions, while counsel Andrew Golodny is particularly well-known for transaction review before the FCC and FTC. Key lawyers from the firm’s competition practice Michael Weiner in New York and Lee Berger in DC are also noted for their telecoms work.

Practice head(s):

Pantelis Michalopoulos


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Bjornson; Andrew Golodny; Michael Weiner; Lee Berger


Key clients

Dish Network


beIN Sports


Inmarsat


Capstone


Vimeo


SmartSky Networks


Embratel TVSAT Telecomunicações Claro S.A.


Fuse LLC


MVDDS 5G Coalition


Work highlights


  • Represented DISH and its subsidiaries on a wide variety of matters, including regulatory issues arising from its satellite-TV, streaming-TV services, and wireless carrier status .
  • Represented MVDDS 5G Coalition before the FCC, convincing the FCC to issue a proposed rulemaking relating to the 12 GHz spectrum band.
  • Represented Sling in challenges by several cities nationwide seeking to impose franchise fees paid by local cable and phone companies on video streaming.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is well-equipped to act on behalf of market-leading clients before the FCC and state bodies in the telecoms space, being a go-to firm for Comcast among other major companies in respect of the full range of their regulatory mandates, including spectrum, broadband infrastructure, and public safety on both the state and federal level. The Washington DC-based practice is co-led by Michael Hurwitz, who focuses on FCC regulatory policy and M&A review, frequently participating in FCC and CPUC rulemakings related to broadband and spectrum issues, and co-lead Jonathan Friedman, who possesses a similar depth of experience, working with a range of major cable operators, video programmers, and equipment manufacturers before the FCC. Within the core team, Melanie Medina specializes in spectrum issues before the FCC such as advocacy in spectrum reallocation proceedings and advising on spectrum auctions, license applications, and performance requirements. Key lawyers from the firm’s cybersecurity and privacy practice, Daniel Alvarez and Laura Jehl, are also active in telecoms, expanding the team’s capabilities much as the practice also draws upon David Murray and his extensive litigation experience.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Friedman; Michael Hurwitz


Other key lawyers:

Melanie Medina; Daniel Alvarez; Laura Jehl; David Murray


Key clients

Comcast Corporation


NBCUniversal


The Internet & Television Association


América Móvil, S.A.B. de C.V.


ForgeLight, LLC


Work highlights


  • Represented Comcast in FCC proceedings to reclassify broadband Internet access service as a Title I information service and adopt a new framework for open Internet protections.
  • Represented América Móvil before the FCC and the public utilities commissions of various states in seeking regulatory approval for its sale of TracFone Wireless to Verizon Communications.
  • Advise NCTA on FCC strategy and advocacy related to spectrum as well as on 911 location accuracy and other wireless public safety matters.

Akin

Akin represents a mixture of clients that includes both major operators within the telecoms space and investors seeking to enter the market, focussing particularly on the cutting-edge of the field where the firm advises on mandates across space and satellite, unmanned vehicles, 5G and wireless, and equipment utilising new tech. Jennifer Richter leads the practice based in Washington DC, providing regulatory and policy advice on a wide range of issues arising from new tech, spectrum use, and industry-specific agreements. She works with Douglas Brandon, who has a history representing tech companies before the FCC, the Department of Justice, and Congress, and Matthew Berry, who brings experience as Chief of Staff and General Counsel at the FCC to the practice.


Practice head(s):

Jennifer Richter


Other key lawyers:

Douglas Brandon; Matthew Berry


Testimonials

This practice’s knowledge and expertise relates to law and regulations involving modern aviation technology (e.g. drones) and telecommunications technology. This is a novel space so the understanding of existing rules/regulations in both spaces and how they might apply to these technologies is invaluable. In addition, the individuals I have worked with have key contacts within agencies that facilitate the ability of clients to meet with relevant policymakers.’

Although we worked almost exclusively with one team member, it was obvious that strong collegial relations within the firm and across the industry were part of what she brought to her work with us.’

‘Jennifer Richter is very knowledgeable, highly skilled and thorough and has strong relationships throughout the industry. Her approach is warm and personal while also being firm and very smart. This combination makes her an extremely effective negotiator and advocate. She supported and educated us while leading us through a very complex situation that was unfamiliar. Ultimately, with her guidance, we arrived at favorable contracts that strengthen our financial position and sustainability. She really went the extra mile and was a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Space Exploration


GTT Communications, Inc.


The Walt Disney Company


Qualcomm Incorporated


Starlink


Apollo Group


AT&T Corp.


Motion Picture Association


CTIA


Skyryse, Inc.


General Motors


Mercury Holdings


Meta


Work highlights


  • Represented Space X before the FCC and D.C. District Court in the reconsideration of an FCC Order granting the most recent Starlink license modification.
  • Advised AT&T in regard to FCC and other regulatory matters in connection with the separation and integration planning for its spinoff and merger of WarnerMedia with Discovery.
  • Represents CTIA with respect to its collaboration with NASA, the FCC, the FAA, and the Department of Transportation to develop a communications architecture for Unmanned Aerial Systems.

Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C.

Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C. advises clients across cable, broadband, and wireless on a wide range of mandates, with a particular strength in legislative strategy, technology policy, and infrastructure deployment. The team also has a strong track record in the regulatory component of transactions, namely private equity investment in the telecoms sector, and sets itself apart from other firms with a similar infrastructure focus through the strong litigation aspect to its work. The Washington DC-based team is led by Tara Corvo, reflecting the broader practice in her particular focus on the intersection between legislative and regulatory policy, advising trade associations in legislative policy and working actively in infrastructure deployment. Other lawyers of note include Russell Fox, who specialises in wireless; Christopher Harvie, whose focus is data privacy and cybersecurity; and T. Scott Thompson, who leads the team on infrastructure litigation.

Practice head(s):

Tara Corvo


Other key lawyers:

Russell Fox; Christopher Harvie; T. Scott Thompson


Key clients

A&E Networks


Altice USA


AMC Networks Inc.


Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers


AST&Science


Charter Communications, Inc.


Comcast Corporation


Cox Communications, Inc.


Crown Castle


CTIA


DIF Capital Partners


DRS Technical Services, Inc.


Entergy Services, Inc.


Everstream Solutions


ExteNet Systems, Inc.


Fidelity Investments


FIF AireBeam


First Light Power


Florida Internet & Television Association


GoDaddy


H.I.G. Capital, LLC


Joink


MEASAT Communications Systems


MediaCom Communications Corporation


MSG Networks


NCTA – The Internet & Television Association


NfinityLink Communications, Inc.


Satcom Direct Communications


SBA Communications


SES World Skies U.S. Government


SpinCar


T-Mobile, USA


Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.


TPG Capital, L.P.


Trimble Inc.


UnitedHealthcare


Uprise Fiber LLC


ViaSat, Inc.


Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.


Wi-Fi Alliance


Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA)


Work highlights


  • Guided numerous communications-related investments for a variety of private equity companies, including advising on strategies for gaining all FCC, state and local approvals without conditions.
  • Obtained an important ruling limiting local government fees on small wireless facilities and fiber optic lines in a decision by the Northern District of New York.
  • Worked with NCTA members and Congressional staff to formulate strategy and edits to critical communications-related legislation, including BEAD, ReConnect, KOSA, COPPA, AIOCA and Section 230.

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP has the capacity to assist on a range of issues in the telecoms space, focusing on representing clients in matters of federal funding and major subsidy program participation; investigation, inquiries, and enforcement proceedings; and new market entry, especially in relation to wireless and Internet of Things. The practice has significantly grown its capabilities with the early 2022 hiring of John Heitmann, Steven Augustino, Joshua Guyan, and counsel Debra McGuire Mercer from Kelley Drye & Warren LLP, combining the new team’s regulatory expertise with the nationwide capabilities of the wider firm, namely in data privacy, to offer a wide range of services for clients. Heitmann heads the new practice and is active across the firm’s market entry, federal funding, enforcement proceedings, and product compliance work.  Augustino focusses his practice on Universal Service Fund contributions and Universal Service audits and investigations;  Guyan assists domestic and international telecoms service providers on compliance and licensing; and McGuire Mercer specializes in litigation, representing clients in FCC proceedings as well as state public utility commissions.

Practice head(s):

John Heitmann


Other key lawyers:

Steven Augustino; Joshua Guyan; Debra McGuire Mercer


Testimonials

The team is unique in that they support a very niche segment of the telecommunications industry. The LifeLine and ACP programs are government subsidized and heavily regulated requiring specialized knowledge not contained within other firms.’

John Heitmann is bar none the top attorney in this segment of the telecommunications space. Others that portend to represent the same space come nowhere near his level of expertise. Josh Guyan is also an incredible source of knowledge within the Lifeline and ACP space. Debra Mercer has vast telecom experience and a go-to for our organization. Bottom line, this team working in coordination provide terrific support to our company.

‘Nelson Mullins has handled our non-profit organization’s advocacy to fight to help low-income Americans keep their essential communication services through the Lifeline program. Nelson Mullins provides top-notch advice on regulatory compliance with the FCC and state regulations.’

The Nelson Mullins team has great attention to detail and treats their clients as their top responsibility. The attorneys represent themselves with the utmost professionalism. They provide such expertise in the subject matter and outstanding legal advice. Nelson Mullins’s legal strategy and filings have been very well researched and eloquently presented.’

They are the market leaders within our sector of business.’

‘Our primary attorney is John Heitmann and our years of experience working with him as always been positive and he represents himself with the utmost professionalism. He provides expertise in the subject matter and provides outstanding legal advice. Josh Guyan is a subject matter expert that represents himself with the utmost professionalism. An absolutely fabulous attorney.

‘What I have found most unique about this firm is just how informed they have become on the day to day nuances of our industry and why certain things are so critical for us to protect. They have a forward looking approach where they realize to help us preserve our industry’s ability to serve the community, we must proactively set meetings with key decision makers and have a regular cadence of discussions.’

‘We work with John Heitmann and Josh Guyan. Tireless advocates, brilliant policy framers and as passionate, if not more so, than many of the leaders in the industry.’

Key clients

Aero Communications


American Broadband & Telecommunications


AMG Technology Investment Group, LLC


Assist Wireless


Boomerang Wireless


Caesars Entertainment, Inc.


DISH Wireless, LLC


Easy Wireless


Excess Telecom


Global Connection of America, Inc.


IM Telecom, LLC


Liberty Broadband


Liberty Latin America Liberty Global


Liberty Cablevision


National Lifeline Association


Phreesia, Inc.


Prepaid Wireless Group


Q Link Wireless


Telrite Corporation


Transaction Network Services, Inc.


True Wireless


TruConnect


ViaOne Services


Work highlights


  • Representing the National Lifeline Association in the transition from the $3 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit Program to the $14 billion Affordable Connectivity Program.
  • Advising DISH Wireless on compliance matters relating to its retail wireless business, particularly its participation in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline program.
  • Acting for Transaction Network Services, Inc., which is one of the three largest U.S. providers of telecommunications analytics used for robocall identification, blocking, and labelling services.

Perkins Coie LLP

Perkins Coie LLP has carved out a niche representing blue-chip high-tech clients in business-critical regulatory mandates arising from their telecoms operations, with a particular strength in product and service launches. Practice head Marc Martin has advised several leading tech firms in this capacity, with a strong track record of advocacy before the FCC, Congress, and the executive branch, and experience in the full range of regulatory matters in the telecoms space. Belinda Nixon is also of note for her experience at the FCC, with particular expertise in wireless infrastructure and broadband deployments. Stephanie Roy has a broad international scope to her representation and she has played a major role in high-profile issues such as net neutrality and proposed media mergers.

Practice head(s):

Marc Martin


Other key lawyers:

Charlyn Ho; Stephanie Roy; Belinda Nixon; Kyle Simon; Meredith Halama; John Roche; Janis Kestenbaum; Julien Bowers; Brandon Johnson


Key clients

Cox Media Group


TruConnect


Deerfield Media


Microsoft


Alliant Energy


Meta Platforms


Fox Corporation


Google LLC


Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP works across wireline and wireless telecoms and broadcast, and is particularly active in the TV and radio space where the team represents broadcasters and broadcasting associations in both traditional broadcast and cutting-edge matters of policy, licensing, and rulemaking before the FCC. Scott Flick co-heads the Washington DC-based practice and is highly active in the broadcast space, advising in both purely regulatory matters and representing clients in the regulatory aspects of their major M&A; he also possesses capabilities in the corporate and media spaces that he brings to the broadcast practice. Co-head Glenn Richards specializes in IP communications, and otherwise represents broadcasters, equipment distributors, and financial institutions seeking to invest in the telecoms sector. Recently promoted counsel Jessica Nyman has capabilities across regulation, litigation, and transactional mandates.

Practice head(s):

Glenn Richards; Scott Flick


Other key lawyers:

Miles S. Mason; Jessica Nyman


Testimonials

‘Glenn and Lee have become the industry experts on FCC matters regarding the inmate communications rate proceedings. Lee Petro, while working on a Pro-bono case, actually was the instigator of the whole push to cap communications rates.’

‘Glenn Richards – good leadership, great insight and has connections at the FCC.’

‘Responsive, timely, thorough, anticipatory and creative approach to issues presented’

Key clients

Standard General L.P.


Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.


Community News Media LLC


Voice on the Net Coalition


Grupo Televisa, S.A.B.


University of Missouri


Live Sports Radio, Inc.


Mercury Capital Partners


NCIC Inmate Communications


WFMJ Television, Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advising Standard General L.P. in its acquisition of TEGNA Inc. in a deal with an enterprise value of $8.6 billion.
  • Represented Grupo Televisa in a complex merger with Univision Communications.
  • Working with Sinclair Television Group, Inc. and the FCC to develop rules and obtain regulatory approvals for the adoption of the ATSC 3.0 (NextGen) television standard.

Telecommunications Law Professionals

Washington DC-based boutique Telecommunications Law Professionals works across the sector, representing regional broadcasters, industry associations, tower and satellite companies, and venture capital in a range of matters before the FCC and other local, state, and federal regulatory bodies. The team has a strong track record in telecoms infrastructure, working on mandates across wireless and fiber, and also works on more cutting-edge issues, such as a space-based cellular broadband network servicing unmodified handhelds. Managing partner Michael Lazarus works alongside founding partner Carl Northrop, who brings his extensive experience working on complex matters covering the full scope of the industry. Other lawyers of note include Dennis Corbett, who has litigation experience representing both traditional broadcasters and more cutting-edge wireless and tech clients; and Gregg Skall, who has represented a range of radio and television broadcasting associations before the FCC and Congress.

Practice head(s):

Michael Lazarus; Carl Northrop


Other key lawyers:

Dennis Corbett; Gregg Skall


Testimonials

‘TLP includes experts in various aspects of broadcast law on its staff, making it a “one stop shop” for broadcast stations.’

‘We work primarily with Gregg Skall and Ashley Brydone-Jack. Occasionally, we have worked with Carl Northrop. Mr. Northrup did an expert job helping us write a tower site lease, which has stood us in good stead since. Mr. Skall has shepherded several applications through the FCC to a successful conclusion.’

‘Great institutional knowledge.’

‘Understands our members.’

‘By maintaining a laser-like focus on the needs of telecommunications service providers, the firm provides us with professionals who understand precisely our business plans and needs. The result is that no matter the project, we get the benefit of expertise from every professional we work with.’

‘Carl Northrop and Jessica Gyllstrom are our “go to” lawyers on complex FCC regulatory issues. Their expertise in telecommunications regulations means that we can get insightful advise in timely, cost-effective fashion.’

‘They are long-standing advisors in the telecommunications space and have an encyclopaedic knowledge of FCC formal rules and informal rules and customs.’

‘Depth of knowledge of FCC personnel and regulatory history.’

Key clients

GCI Communication Corp.


AST & Science


Radio and Television Broadcasting Associations


Cellular South, Inc. d/b/a C Spire


American Tower Corporation


Go Long Wireless


Heritage Broadcasting of Michigan


Sennheiser Electronic Corporation


Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)


Central Baptist Theological Center


Matthew Kaufman


Work highlights


  • Advised GCI Communication Corp. on a variety of regulatory and contractual matters pertaining to its extensive operations in Alaska.
  • Advised AST & Science on a variety of regulatory issues pertaining to the planned provision of satellite service directly to unmodified cell phones.
  • Advised American Tower on the conflict between the FCC and the FAA arising from an FCC-authorized 5G service potentially interfering with airplane altimeters.