Kirkland & Ellis LLP > Chicago, United States > Firm Profile

Kirkland & Ellis LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1

A client describes Kirkland & Ellis LLP as the ‘best in business’ in the class action antitrust space, praising the firm for its ‘thoughtful, pragmatic, and effective’ approach. Monopolization, pricing disputes, unfair competition, intellectual property, and price discrimination are among the issues covered by the team and are also Chicago-based James Mutchnik‘s areas of focus. Daniel Laytin, also located in Chicago, represents defendants in high-stakes class action and civil litigation matters across the US. The firm has recently expanded its team with the arrivals of antitrust and competition attorney Andrea Agathoklis Murino and litigation specialist Matthew Wheatley, who both joined the Washington DC office in early 2021 from Goodwin. Christa Cottrell, who also forms part of the firm’s Chicago bench, has litigated complex class actions for clients such as General Motors and Sanderson Farms, among others.

Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)

Kirkland & Ellis LLP houses one of the country’s most admired appellate law practices, which is frequently involved in high-stakes cases before all Circuits. On the US Supreme Court front, the firm continues to secure a dominant volume of precedent-setting matters, notably arguing five cases during the 2020 term, which represented 10% of all cases heard that year. The firm also earns plaudits for its impressive success rate, which saw it win all five of its merits cases over the past year. Former Solicitor General Paul Clement stands out as one of the most seasoned litigators in the market and has argued over 100 cases before the US Supreme Court. Erin Murphy is also a sought-after appellate expert, with an impressive record in constitutional, statutory and administrative law cases. Clement and Murphy recently paired up to successfully represent the Alaska Native Village Corporation Association before SCOTUS in a dispute over whether Alaska Native Corporations are ‘Indian tribes’ under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, and thus eligible for funding available to Tribal governments under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. George Hicks is also a high-profile appellate litigator and acted alongside Clement to obtain a victory for Snyder’s-Lance in the Fourth Circuit in a long-running trademark dispute with Frito-Lay. The practice also benefits from the senior experience of John O’Quinn and New York-based Jay Lefkowitz. Among the premier group’s up-and-coming names, William Burgess stand out for his IP expertise, while Harker Rhodes recently represented Windstream Holdings in two appeals arising out of its bankruptcy proceedings, winning both appeals. All attorneys are based in Washington DC unless stated otherwise.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

The ‘diverse and very intelligent and experienced’ team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a wealth of experience in dealing with high-profile investigations by enforcement authorities for both individuals and corporate clients. On the individual’s side, the firm has considerable experience in representing senior executives in House and Senate inquiries. Practice heads Mark Filip and Asheesh Goel work across the Washington DC and Chicago offices, and oversee a team which includes former DOJ, SEC and FTC attorneys. Filip is recommend for enforcement defense and internal investigations, while Goel is recommended for securities enforcement, FCPA matters, economic sanctions and money laundering matters. Brigham Cannon handles white-collar and regulatory defense, and also compliance matters. In September 2021, the team was strengthened with the arrival of Nader Salehi from Sidley Austin LLP and Kyle DeYoung from Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP; and in Dallas with the joining of Erin Nealy Cox. Erica Williams left for an in-house role at the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) in early 2022. Named attorneys are based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP ‘brings an almost unique set of strengths and resources to address complex, high-stakes commercial litigation.’ The practice is noted for its breadth, with expertise in civil trials, congressional inquiries, securities litigation, class action claims and government investigations, among others. Defendants and plaintiffs alike approach the group for legal support in crises. The New York-based Sandra Goldstein is noted for her expertise in fraud class actions, securities and commercial disputes. Mark Filip, who divides his time between Chicago and Washington DC, has a strong track record for civil cases: he is for instance acting for Allergan in the Opioids litigation. James Hurst's broad practice spans patent, products liability, trade secret, criminal, antitrust, and contract matters, and Andrew Kassof has know-how in trying cases; both are based in Chicago. New York’s Aaron Marks is well versed in acting for financial institutions. Other prominent practitioners are Richard Godfrey and Diana Watral in Chicago, as well as Craig Primis in Washington DC.

Dispute resolution > M&A litigation: defense Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP remains at the forefront of corporate governance and M&A litigation, as well as advising on pre-litigation issues in deal structures and strategies, as well as taking matters all the way to trial. Its work spans cases arising from large M&A, shareholder activism, proxy contests, tender offers, as well as leveraged buyout and special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) transactions. The firm has a stellar track record in high-profile matters in the Delaware Court of Chancery, the state and federal courts in New York, and other state and federal courts across the country, and it continues to be involved in market-leading matters. Key partner Sandra Goldstein won a complete dismissal for Amcor in a post-closing class action arising from the company’s $6.8bn acquisition of Bemis Company. Matthew Solum, who is handling a shareholder class action for BC Partners, and Yosef Riemer, are among the other key attorneys. Up-and-coming partners Stefan Atkinson and Washington DC-based Joshua Rabinovitz also play key roles in the practice. Lawyers are in New York unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP consolidated its status as a leading securities litigation firm in 2021, with a string of victories and a strong pipeline of new mandates across the full spectrum of 10(b) stock drop and IPO-related class actions, M&A and proxy-related disputes, shareholder derivative suits, structured finance litigation, books and records demands, and litigation demands on boards. Sandra Goldstein in New York and Mark Filip in Chicago are among the firm’s standout practitioners. Acknowledged securities litigation expert Goldstein acted for 3G Capital, a major shareholder in Kraft Heinz, in class actions and derivative cases concerning a $15.4bn write-down of Kraft Heinz’s assets and the disclosure of an SEC investigation into the company’s accounting policies, procedures and controls. Stefan Atkinson in New York is heavily involved in cases involving special purpose acquisition companies. Joshua Rabinovitz in Washington DC ‘told us exactly what to expect from the representation, and what to expect as the case proceeded, including all the various permutations it might take, so we were always prepared’, remarks one client.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is a clear market leader in high-yield debt for issuers. The firm routinely advises private equity and corporate clients on high-yield debt offerings used to finance M&A and buyouts. It advises a range of issuer clients including Ares Capital, The Boeing Capital, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Starwood Capital. The firm is also known for its work in the refinancing and restructuring field, and recently represented Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings in a series of headline capital markets offerings, including its $575m offering of 5.875% senior notes due 2026 and $525m offering of 6.125% senior notes due 2028. New York’s Sophia Hudson and Joshua Korff, and Los Angeles partners Philippa Bond and Monica Shilling are major players in the market; Shilling’s major client is Ares Capital. Houston partner Matthew Pacey is another key name.

Finance > Commercial lending Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP maintains a considerable market share of the borrower-side debt finance market, and hits strong numbers with regards to both deal count and total deal value. Private equity work is the real specialty of the group, which works with market-leading companies such as Blackstone Inc., Carlyle, Warburg Pincus and KKR on leveraged buyouts across a number of industries, though the firm is also capable in restructuring matters. The department’s central hub is in New York, home to Melissa Hutson and Jay Ptashek, though the firm’s market position is thanks in part to its national coverage; Michelle Kilkenney and Maureen Dixon are based in Chicago, while David Nemecek and Eric Wedel spend much of their time in Los Angeles. The firm added to an already deep bench with the arrival of the ‘practical, responsive, knowledgeable’ Rachael Lichman from Baker Botts L.L.P. in March 2021. Linda Myers retired in February 2022.

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a global practice with offices extending across the US, the UK, Europe, and Asia. Its sizeable team has strong expertise in complex domestic and cross-border restructurings, where it utilizes its cross-practice abilities to advise an array of clients. Notable work highlights includes its representation of Intelsat S.A., the largest satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructure body on the globe, in its Chapter 11 bankruptcy case pertaining to $14.7bn of funded debt. Anup Sathy, based in Chicago, is noted for his representation of companies, buyers, investors and lenders. The practice is led by Edward Sassower; he has long-standing experience representing debtors, creditors and distressed investors within both bankruptcy cases and out-of-court restructurings. He operates from the New York office. Splitting his time between both New York and Chicago, James Sprayregen is noted for his expertise in workouts, restructuring and insolvency proceedings. The practice also welcomed the arrival of Christine Okike from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in April 2021 to the New York office. She assisted the representation of Katerra Inc., alongside New York’s Joshua Sussberg, in its Chapter 11 cases before the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas pertaining to $1bn of debt. Jonathan Henes left the firm in July 2021. Both Marc Kieselstein and James Stempel have retired.

Industry focus > Energy litigation: oil and gas Tier 1

The oil and gas litigation team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a strong reputation in the energy sector, with extensive experience representing clients before major state and federal courts and agencies, including the Department of Energy and FERC. The practice group also advises in administrative and regulatory proceedings before the European Union and other international governing bodies. Based in Houston, Anna Rotman leads the group and has significant trial experience in business disputes and restructurings, representing both plaintiffs and defendants. Kenneth Young and associate Dustin Womack focus primarily on complex commercial litigation, with the former handling issues related to climate change – the pair provide strong support in Houston. In Chicago, Richard Godfrey is also recommended and forms part of the wider litigation group.

Industry focus > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP's multidisciplinary practice covers the full array of conventional power matters, notably the acquisition and sale of energy and infrastructure assets and the financing of private and public companies, as well as acquisitions, going-private transactions, spin-off transactions and the acquisition of minority interests. Andrew Calder leads the team from Houston and focuses on M&A, corporate and securities law, and corporate governance with a particular orientation towards the energy sector. Additional key names in the practice include Kristin Mendoza, in New York, who advises public and private companies (including private equity firms and strategic investors) on conventional power issues; and Rohit Chaudhry, in Washington DC, who focuses on energy and project-finance transactions, sales and acquisitions, and project restructurings across the energy spectrum.

Industry focus > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 1

The Kirkland & Ellis LLP energy transactions team is ‘one of, if not the, best in the industry. They are exceptional practitioners, business oriented and completely understand the ins-and-outs of the key legal points’. The practice specializes in large acquisitions and the multidisciplinary team covers the spectrum of oil and gas matters, not least asset-backed securities and transactions involving assets located in all of the significant domestic shale and conventional plays, as well as the Gulf of Mexico. Andrew Calder focuses on complex M&A, corporate and securities law, and corporate governance. He co-leads the practice with Anthony Speier, who handles acquisitions, divestitures and the formation of joint ventures involving assets across the energy value-chain. Their Houston-based team includes ‘top energy transactional attorney’ David Castro, as well as experienced practitioners Sean Wheeler, Kyle Watson, Chris Heasley, Lindsey Jaquillard, William Benitez and Rahul Vashi.

Industry focus > Environment: transactional Tier 1

Offering coast-to-coast coverage, Kirkland & Ellis LLP houses one of the biggest environmental transactional practice groups, which handles the environmental aspects of hundreds of successful business transactions year on year. The team is often called upon to provide pre-deal counselling, and assists clients with the allocation and mitigation of environmental risks, indemnity and regulatory issues, crisis management, and environmental disclosures in the context of securities filings. It stands out for its strong track record in high-value and high-profile transactions taking place in the energy, infrastructure and industrial sectors, and is a popular destination for private equity sponsors. Its recent workload includes multi-billion dollar M&A, SPAC and financing deals in an array of environmentally sensitive industries. Based between San Francisco and Houston, Paul Tanaka is the main point of contact in the practice and counsel of choice for several private equity firms and public companies engaged in deals in the renewable energy, oil and gas and infrastructure space. Alexandra Farmer in Washington DC heads up the ESG and impact department, focusing on sustainability and climate- related regulatory requirements. Also in DC, Sara Michaelchuck Webber is noted for M&A and real estate investments, while Stefanie Gitler, who splits her time between DC and Houston, plays a key role in the handling of environmental liabilities in bankruptcy matters. In the Dallas office, Jonathan Kidwell specialises in commercial transactions and bankruptcy matters pertaining to the energy, infrastructure, chemical and mining sectors.

Intellectual property > Copyright Tier 1

With integrated expertise across the US, Europe and Asia, the team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP remains a leader in the copyright space, representing major multinationals such as Epic Games, Oracle, and Take-Two Interactive in high-profile litigations spanning the entertainment, fashion, video games, software and tech sectors. In New York, respected IP authority Dale Cendali, who represented Oracle in the Supreme Court and throughout the long-running Google v Oracle case, heads the practice, bringing deep experience to disputes involving motion picture studios and major celebrities. Claudia Ray handles copyright rate-setting litigation on behalf of clients in music and publishing in New York, while Joshua Simmons provides key support to Cendali on tech and software matters.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage) Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP houses a stellar bench of experienced trial lawyers, including the New York-based Gregory Arovas, Robert Appleby, Joseph Loy, and Todd Friedman; James Hurst, Amanda Hollis, and Bryan Hales in Chicago; Michael De Vries and Ellisen Turner in Los Angeles; Adam Alper in San Francisco; Gregg LoCascio and John O’Quinn in Washington DC; and Jeannie Heffernan in Austin. Operating across the country, the practice is a preferred choice for major industry clients for a wide gamut of patent disputes, litigating cases before district courts, the Federal Circuit, the ITC, the PTAB, and the Supreme Court. The group has particular expertise in the semiconductor, telecommunications, technology, electronics and pharmaceutical industries.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (International Trade Commission) Tier 1

A true force to be reckoned with, Kirkland & Ellis LLP's practice impresses with an excellent track record acting in ITC investigations, having secured several precedent-setting rulings. Washington DC duo Gregg LoCascio and Paul Brinkman and New York’s Gregory Arovas stand out as the key experts of the group, which continues handling ITC cases across a wide range of technologies. Additionally the group manages appeals and the enforcement of exclusion orders with US Customs and Border Protection. Christopher Mizzo, who is also based in Washington DC, is another name to note. Helena Kiepura left in June 2021.

Intellectual property > Trade secrets (litigation and non-contentious matters) Tier 1

Fielding highly versatile teams working collaboratively across multiple cities, Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s formidable practice is especially renowned for its capabilities in business-critical technology disputes before both the state and federal courts. On the West Coast, the Bay Area-based Adam Alper is a seasoned patent and trade secrets litigator with a strong track record representing clients in the semiconductor, telecoms, and pharmaceutical arenas. In Los Angeles, IP trial lawyer Michael De Vries is widely regarded for his work in billion-dollar cases, defending the interests of various blue-chip technology entities, while Diana Torres’ recent highlights include trademark infringement suits and class action litigations in the automotive and cybersecurity sectors. On the East Coast, New York-based Dale Cendali is recommended for her expertise in copyright, internet, and advertising matters, while Washington DC-based Gregg LoCascio is an accomplished litigator in cases related to electrical and mechanical engineering. Also in New York, Claudia Ray is noted for her broad IP capabilities, ranging from pre-litigation strategizing to portfolio management. Chicago-based Gianni Cutri and the New York-based Joshua Simmons are also recommended.

Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital) Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is ‘well recognized as one of the leading law firms in this area’; a national offering comprising more than 520 specialized attorneys ‘consistently provides outstanding work and advice, even under very challenging or urgent circumstances’. Given the department’s historical role in ‘developing many of the legal principles and precedents that enabled the private funds sector to grow to its present size’, there is ‘rarely an issue that the practitioners have not seen and successfully navigated’. The group is instructed by a roster of more than 700 private equity sponsor clients, all of whom benefit from its ‘unequalled experience with fund formation, structuring, taxation and operations’. The New York office is a key base, fielding not only practice head John O’Neil but also a plethora of recommended senior attorneys, including Erica Berthou, Andrew Wright, Nicole Washington and Katrina Rowe. 2021 has also seen significant expansion at this location: Matthew Block from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, Mark Boyagi from Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, and Brad Friedman from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP are just some of the notable recent arrivals. In addition, a new acquisition has cemented the team’s presence in Boston, where Luzia Vaczy, formerly of Proskauer Rose LLP, is now based. Over in Chicago, Bruce Ettelson and Katie St. Peters remain the core contacts.

Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 1

Noted for its expertise in the oil and gas, energy and technology sectors, Kirkland & Ellis LLP acts for public and private companies, as well as private equity funds, in high value M&A transactions, restructuring mandates and Chapter 11 cases. Key clients include NortonLifeLock, Thoma Bravo and Bristol Myers Squibb Company, among others. New York-based Scott Price advises clients on the executive compensation aspects of domestic and international mergers, in addition to representing executives and management teams in negotiating incentive compensation arrangements. In the firm’s Chicago office, Alexandra Mihalas focuses on ERISA issues arising out of acquisitions and sales by private equity funds, while Michael Falk handles defined benefit, deferred compensation and equity plans. Matthew Antinossi, who is also based in Chicago, has experience in ESOP transactions and advises on ERISA Title IV issues.

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

Equipped to support on market-defining, multijurisdictional deals across all major industries, Kirkland & Ellis LLP caters to a wide-ranging client roster of public and private companies, financial advisors and boards of directors. David Fox has transacted a colossal $500bn worth of deals throughout his illustrious career, while Daniel Wolf is a standout for cross-border and contested transactions, activism defense and governance matters. The practice, which predominantly consists of New York-based lawyers, is also home to Jonathan Davis, one of the market’s foremost names for SPAC-related transactions.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Private equity buyouts Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP remains a powerhouse, handling a steady stream of sponsor-led private equity deals throughout the bulge-bracket and middle market on behalf of the major players in the field, including KKR, Blackstone, Bain, and BC Partners, among others. The firm has a strong presence across the US, with active offices in New York, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles, and further is able to work in collaboration with its global platform alongside integrated finance, tech, and regulatory teams. Alongside buyouts and exits, the team also advises on complex and innovative arrangements, including SPAC deals and continuation fund transactions, leveraging its fund formation capabilities for the latter. Key names in the team include global chairman Jon Ballis in Chicago, an authority on private equity issues who continues to act on major deals for the likes of Cerberus and TPG, Peter Martelli, who has led buyouts and portfolio company deals for Blackstone and BC Partners, and Eunu Chun, an experienced dealmaker with expertise across the life-cycle of private equity investments. Jennifer Perkins has a strong record in domestic and cross-border buyouts and exits, with standout work on behalf of KKR. Laura Steinke joined the firm from Ropes & Gray LLP in September 2021, and is noted for her international expertise and prolific deal count. Jonathan Benloulou divides his time between Los Angeles and Dallas, and specializes in asset manager M&A. Also in Los Angeles, Damon Fisher is a key name for SPAC deals. Attorneys are in New York unless otherwise stated.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Shareholder activism Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has experience of defending several high profile M&A challenges, such as Bristol Myers-Celgene’s $90bn deal vs. Starboard/Wellington. Its team also has expertise in advising on takeover preparedness, typifying its holistic approach to activism defense. Of particular note, the group advised Nikola Corporation on a high profile activist short attack. Key contacts in the group are Shaun Mathew and Sarkis Jebejian. Mathew has led the defense in over 50 significant activism mandates since joining Kirkland in 2018. Corporate partner Jebejian counts Accenture and Bain Capital among key clients. Eric Schiele and Daniel Wolf are also noted for their work on proxy fights. All named practitioners are based in New York.

Media, technology and telecoms > Advertising and marketing: litigation Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is historically known for its involvement in high-profile advertising cases, in which the team showcases strong litigation skills at any level of justice and in multiple contexts, including the NAD and the National Advertising Review Board. In Chicago, practice head Ross Weisman has IP expertise and longstanding experience in advertising and promotions law, especially defending and challenging advertising claims in federal court under the Lanham Act. Also in Chicago, Robin McCue often co-leads on matters with Weisman and specializes in false advertising litigation. In Washington DC, Gregg LoCascio is particularly recognized for his technical capabilities. As a former staff attorney of the FTC, DC-based Richard Cunningham  is also a name to note in this area.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s technology transactions group provides critical support to the firm’s market-leading corporate and private equity teams, which regularly act on IP and technology-driven corporate acquisitions, sales, SPAC mergers and IPOs. The volume of deal activity is unmatched by most firms and might lead to the team’s standalone skillsets being overlooked. The practice has long had a major focus on business process and technology outsourcing agreements, and its lead lawyers are equally adept at IP licenses, collaboration agreements and strategic alliances. A notable example was the firm’s advice to McDonald’s on its deal with IBM concerning the development of its Automated Order Taking technology and subsequent spinoff of McD Tech Labs. Key partners include Seth Traxler, Neil Hirshman and Matthew Lovell in Chicago for IP and technology-related outsourcings and transactions. San Francisco-based partner John Lynn is also highly experienced in related corporate and technology transactions.

Real estate Tier 1

Noted for its work for publicly-traded REITs, sovereign wealth funds, major pension organizations and institutional investors, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is the go-to counsel for private equity groups on all real estate-related activities. Practice heads Jonathan Schechter, Andrew Small and Kevin Ehrhart, based in New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, respectively, are recognised for their expertise in joint venture formation, capital raisings and portfolio acquisitions and dispositions. Christopher Hartmann is another noted figure in New York; recommended for preferred equity investments and financings. Chicago’s Rachel Brown and Daniel Perlman are focused on workouts, loan sales and investments in distressed capital stacks.

Tax > International tax Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is noted for its expertise regarding tax aspects of international M&A, investment fund formation, and restructurings. Practice co-chair Dean Shulman operates out of New York and covers M&A transactions, divestitures, tax-free spin-offs, and real estate investment trusts. Also in New York, Sara Zablotney and David Grenker are key contacts for international tax matters related to transactions and offshore private equity funds, respectively. In Chicago, practice co-chair Todd Maynes focuses on debt restructuring and tax litigation, while Rachel Cantor specializes in tax matters related to cross-border M&A. They work alongside Mike Carew, Lee Morlock, both also in Chicago, and Jared Rusman in New York, well-regarded experts in cross-border tax aspects of M&A transactions. 2021 saw an influx of new partners, including tax structuring specialist Stanley Ramsay from Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in May, and transactional tax lawyers Michael Masri and Sophia Han from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP in March and May.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 1

The internationally renowned team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP works with a broad spectrum of industry leaders on the full gamut of tax matters. The team is especially known for its prolific Chapter 11 restructuring capabilities, as well as its involvement in numerous big-ticket M&A transactions and investment fund formations. The practice is jointly headed up by Chicago-based Todd Maynes, a debt restructuring and tax litigation specialist, and New York-based Dean Shulman, a highly experienced advisor in all manner of transaction structuring mandates. Also in New York, Sara Zablotney is recognized for her capabilities in big-ticket transactions, with recent highlights including a series of high-value acquisitions for some of the country’s leading private equity firms. Gregory Gallagher and Mike Carew are noted for their respective strengths in domestic and cross-border deal structuring, while New York-based David Grenker focuses on restructurings, and public and private debt issuances. The Chicago-based William Levy possesses decades of experience in real estate transactions, restructurings and corporate reorganizations. In recent months, the firm has been on a significant hiring streak, with notable recent additions including the REIT-focused Mark Schwed from Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in April 2021 and the renewable energy tax specialist Sophia Han from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe in May 2021. All named lawyers are based in Chicago unless noted otherwise.

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 2

Offering significant agency experience, the team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP is adept in representing clients in a broad range of industries throughout government cartel investigations and associated litigation, with a focus on price-fixing, monopolization, generic drugs and intellectual property. The firm represents parties in key cartel investigations, most notably acting for AbbVie in ongoing FTC litigation relating to anticompetitive conduct in the generics space, and also has notable capabilities in cartel investigations into private equity portfolio companies, assisting many of the firm’s leading PE fund clients. Senior names in the team include the experienced Chicago-based duo of James Mutchnik, a go-to counsel for government and internal investigations, international cartel litigation, and criminal proceedings arising from cartel allegations, and Daniel Laytin, a specialist litigator regularly involved in civil and criminal cartel cases. The team’s expertise in media and telecoms work was bolstered by the arrival of Scott Scheele, who joined the Washington DC office in December 2021, having served as head of the Antitrust Division’s Media, Entertainment and Communications Section.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is heavily active in merger clearances, successfully securing approvals for its highly acquisitive corporate and private equity clients, including such major funds as Blackstone, KKR, and Bain Capital, handling a large proportion of HSR filings alongside more contentious merger proceedings such as Second Requests and DOJ investigations. Alongside its strong domestic presence, the firm also regularly handles cross-border clearances, appearing before the European Commission and other global enforcers, and collaborating with its international offices on complex multijurisdictional matters. Key names in the team include the vastly experienced Matthew Reilly, a fixture in FTC and DOJ merger proceedings on behalf of a wide range of blue-chip clients and New York-based Ian John, who notably represented Ahold Delhaize in the clearance of its acquisition of Fresh Direct. Marin Boney has strong expertise in the software and technology space, handling approvals and investigations for M&A and joint ventures. The team expanded significantly during 2021, with Andrea Agathoklis Murino and Matthew Wheatley arriving from Goodwin in January and March respectively, Jill Ross joining the New York office from Dechert LLP in May, and media and entertainment specialist Scott Scheele arriving from the Antitrust Division in December. Lawyers are in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: automotive/transport Tier 2

The ‘thoughtful, pragmatic and effective’ team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP ‘delivers quality class action defense‘ to a raft of high-profile corporates, including automotive manufacturers, in state and federal courts across the country, including in the context of MDL litigation. The firm is noted for its trial-ready approach which translates to very persausive advocacy in jury trials, as well as providing it with the leverage to secure favourable settlements, success at summary judgment and the early dismissal of cases. General Motors remains a cornerstone client of the practice and continues to provide a raft of product liability instructions, including relating to airbags and emissions standards. ‘A master in the complex litigation class action realm’, Richard Godfrey continues to handle work for GM, including his work alongside the ‘incredibly smart, thoughtful and client-focused’ Renee Smith  in relation to the Takata airbag litigation and the high-profile diesel emissions putative class action. All named practitioners are based out of the firm’s Chicago office.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: consumer products (including tobacco) Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is particularly adept at handling high-stakes product liability and mass tort disputes with potentially reputation threatening consequences for the defendants. As well as the firm’s ability to provide ‘highly strategic‘ guidance, it is also well-versed in understanding and explaining often highly complex technical and scientific issues, including in MDLs for generic pharmaceutical and manufacturing companies. The firm’s Chicago headquarters contain a particularly strong concentration of prominent product liability litigators, including Renee Smith, Robert Ellis and the vastly experienced Andrew McGaan.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: toxic tort Tier 2

Historically rooted in litigation and still maintaining a market-leading presence in bet-the-company cases across the spectrum of civil disputes, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is a popular choice for clients seeking a robust and trial-ready defence, including in major class actions. It regularly handles some sizeable mandates in the toxic tort space, where it receives plaudits for ‘its uniformly excellent service, both at a partner and associate level’. As well as his work within the pharmaceuticals space, Washington DC-based Mike Brock has also gained market recognition for his versatile trial practice that includes work on major environmental toxic tort mandates; former key roles included his work for BP in all matters relating to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill litigation.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has an impressive array of corporate issuer clients and has a steady flow of key engagements stemming from its illustrious private client base. Capital markets offerings connected to its world-leading restructuring practice are also a feature of the firm’s practice. It has also worked on a series of fund raisings driven by the Covid-19 pandemic for clients such as Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. New York partners Sophia Hudson and Joshua Korff are prolific advisers on big-ticket DCM engagements for corporate issuers, private equity clients and their portfolio companies; Korff is also noted for offerings by tech businesses. Chicago partner Robert Hayward also has a wealth of issuer relationships, such as Boeing.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s thriving capital markets practice is fuelled to a large extent by its leading private equity client base and their portfolio companies. It has also achieved further prominence in SPAC-related equity offerings and transactions linked to capital constraints resulting from the Covid-19 crisis; this included a mix of debt and equity issuances by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. Chicago partner Robert Hayward frequently advises private equity portfolio companies on their IPOs and equity offerings. New York’s Joshua Korff is perhaps best known for high-yield debt, but is also active in equity offerings and SPAC transactions. New York partner Sophia Hudson and Los Angeles partner Philippa Bond are also key names.

Finance > Project finance

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has rapidly developed its project finance practice in recent years, with a team capable of assisting lenders and sponsors with a range of complex issues, though is most active in the private equity arena, leveraging its reputation as a leading PE to represent infrastructure funds and PE sponsors looking to invest in developing projects. Rohit Chaudhry is practice head and advises many of the teams largest lender clients from the Washington DC office, which is also home to Roald Nashi . The New York group added to its ranks in February 2022 with the addition of Robert Eberhardt from Norton Rose Fulbright, following on from a number of other lateral hires into the office including: Sebastian Chan, who arrived from Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP in February 2021; and Sebastian Chan, who joined from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP a month later.

Finance > Structured finance: securitization Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a broad practice, with a notable private equity and portfolio company client base. The team has a strong reputation for whole-business securitizations, and has particular experience in structures involving exotic assets, including floorplan loans, healthcare and credit card receivables, as well as operating assets such as oil and gas receivables. Auto and equipment securitizations are another core part of the practice. Jointly leading the group are Chicago’s Jeffrey O’Connor and New York’s Janette McMahan, a specialist in auto loan and lease transactions, as well as single-family rental deals and whole-business securitizations. In Dallas, associate Rudgee Charles is building a solid asset finance and securitization practice.

Industry focus > Energy regulation: electric power Tier 2

Praised for its ‘superior technical capabilities’, Kirkland & Ellis LLP represents a wide range of electricity market participants and individuals in FERC and CFTC enforcement proceedings and FERC audits. The group handles transaction and financing structures, renewable portfolio investments and acquisitions, and also advised clients in the aftermath of winter storm Uri. Key contacts at the firm include ‘standouts’ Brooksany Barrowes and Andrew Stuyvenberg; the former has experience developing trading and corporate compliance programs; the latter has worked on significant financing and M&A projects. Robert Fleishman is an ‘intellectual and legal powerhouse’ with extensive expertise before the FERC, CFTC and other regulatory bodies.

Industry focus > Environment: litigation Tier 2

Bringing together experience in environmental enforcement, compliance and litigation, Kirkland & Ellis LLP has successfully defended major companies in a variety of civil, criminal and administrative environmental proceedings. Contentious matters related to groundwater contamination is an area of strength for the group, which is often retained by clients from the chemicals, manufacturing, oil and gas sectors and public entities in such claims. In addition, typical mandates include mass tort and class actions, Superfund cases, climate change litigation and challenged to federal and state rulemakings. Andrew Running is a key point of contact within the team; the practitioner is based in Chicago and has achieved numerous victories for clients in environmental contamination, product liability and toxic tort cases. Kevin Van Wart is seasoned in acting for major corporate clients in class actions and mass tort lawsuits, while Bradley Weidenhammer has substantial experience in federal and state trials as well as appellate courts throughout the US. Clients in the aerospace, manufacturing, telecoms, energy and pharmaceutical sectors regularly turn to Nader Boulos for assistance with environmental tort cases.

Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s extensive track record acting for licensors and licensees alike nourishes the practice with strong capabilities to negotiate mandates with a deep understanding of both perspectives. In addition to negotiating license agreements, the group is well versed in other commercial arrangements that are often implemented alongside of patent licensing deals, including joint development agreements, supply agreements, and service and technical assistance agreements. The team offers additional expertise in the development and implementation of patent licensing programs, often by way of corporate transactions. Key practitioners include David MacDonald in New York, who has a focus on pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies; Chicago-based trio Russell Levine, Adam Petravicius, and Seth Traxler, who leads the technology & IP transactions practice; and Shellie Freedman in New York, whose background in molecular and cell biology provides her with additional insight into life sciences transactions.

Intellectual property > Trademarks: litigation Tier 2

Led in New York by intellectual property litigation authority Dale Cendali, the team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP acts in high-stakes trademark disputes on behalf of internationally recognized brands including Delta Air Lines and Epic Games. In Los Angeles, Diana Torres represents consumer product manufacturers, fitness service providers and media companies, and Allison Buchner litigates for companies against regulators, competitors and consumers. In New York, further support is provided by Claudia Ray, who specializes in unfair competition claims for clients in tech, aviation, financial services and entertainment, and Shanti Sadtler Conway, who, in addition to appearing high-profile court actions, provides IP counselling for non-profits and low-income individuals.

Media, technology and telecoms > Outsourcing Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a strong record in the outsourcing space, with expertise in complex, multi-vendor outsourcing deals. In addition to handling the outsourcing of business processes, the practice draws on its experience of technology transactions to advise on IT outsourcings. The team is also frequently engaged to handle the outsourcing aspects of mergers and acquisitions. Neil Hirshman and Gregg Kirchhoefer offer particular expertise in technology transactions and Todd Herst handles outsourcing transactions across sectors including telecommunications, healthcare, insurance and consumer products. New York’s Shellie Freedman is another name to note with a focus on healthcare and life sciences. Lawyers mentioned are in Chicago unless otherwise stated.

Real estate > Real estate investment trusts (REITs) Tier 2

Highlighted for its ‘unparalleled experience’, Kirkland & Ellis LLP brings together a multidisciplinary team with demonstrable strength in capital markets transactions and real-estate related tax matters. The department also advises on corporate governance, particularly on takeovers and disclosure issues to directors, and is able to leverage its global footprint to handle cross-border matter with its office in London. New York’s Michael Brueck and Sarkis Jebejian are key contacts alongside Bruce Gelman in Chicago who focuses on structuring REITS, and is singled out by clients for his ‘unique blend of tax, structuring, and corporate law knowledge.‘ Mike Beinus in New York is also recommended for debt and equity offerings.

Tax > US taxes: contentious Tier 2

The tax disputes team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a ‘strong deep bench for tax disputes’ in federal and state courts, administrative appeals, and dispute resolution before litigation stage. It is especially experienced in transfer pricing controversy proceedings and representing private equity funds in tax audits and proceedings. Based in Houston, practice co-lead Richard Husseini represents public and private companies and high net worth individuals before the IRS, courts, and regulatory bodies. Operating out of Chicago, co-lead Natalie Keller is experienced in transfer pricing disputes, particularly for clients in automotive, medical product, and pharmaceutical industries. She works alongside Todd Maynes, a tax litigation, debt restructurings, and insolvency specialist, and counsel JoAnne Nagjee, who represents clients in administrative appeals and post-appeal mediation.

Dispute resolution > E-discovery Tier 3

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is appreciated by peers and clients alike as it is ‘ very strong technically, thoroughly understands all things e-discovery, and is diligent, persistent and pays great attention to detail.’  Primarily advising on discovery strategy in the context of complex litigation, the firm also handles antitrust and regulatory responses, high-volume due diligence and data-intensive internal investigations. The ‘excellent’ Michelle Six chairs the firm’s electronic discovery committee from New York, and assists with data loss and records retention issues, in addition to challenges posed by emerging technologies. Vanessa Barsanti returned to the firm’s Chicago office from Redgrave LLP in January 2021, having departed six months earlier. Of counsel Amber Whipkey arrived in Washington DC from WilmerHale in May 2021.

Dispute resolution > Financial services litigation Tier 3

At Kirkland & Ellis LLP, the financial services litigation practice handles a range of complex disputes in the area, from market manipulation and fraud investigations to litigation related to M&A. The team represents clients facing investigations across consumer finance, securities and derivatives, with experience in cases involving the SEC, CFTC, DOJ and CFPB. The practice’s governmental relations expertise is further demonstrated by its recent work for a number of CEOs of prominent banks in helping them to prepare for congressional oversight hearings. Mark Filip is a former federal judge and offers deep experience in defending clients in government enforcement proceedings, while Sandra Goldstein and Zachary Brez are noted for their work in securities and M&A litigation. Goldstein and Brez are based in New York, while Filip works across the Chicago and Washington DC offices; Reginald Brown is another name to note in DC and further bolsters the firm’s expertise in regulatory enforcement proceedings.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: pharmaceuticals and medical devices Tier 3

Kirkland & Ellis LLP 's overarching litigation credentials and core ability to try bet-the-company disputes allows it to handle high-profile class actions/mass torts in the space. Indeed, it is this trial-ready-approach which is one of the firm’s main strengths, enabling it to secure early and successful settlement for clients through dispositive motions, as well as, should the need arise, in a jury trial. Mike Brock in Washington DC epitomizes the firm’s strength at trying cases, and is adept at representing pharma and life sciences companies, particularly in product liability and mass tort cases. New York-based Jay Lefkowitz  is also a key member of the team and has secured notable high-profile victories in the space at both a trial and appellate level, including before the Supreme Court.

Industry focus > Energy: renewable/alternative power Tier 3

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is recurrently sought out by major investors in some of their most significant renewable energy transactions, including the acquisition and sale of renewable assets, and financing of alternative projects. Benefitting from a strong network of domestic offices with energy expertise across Texas, New York, California, and Washington D.C., the firm has advised on deals, especially M&A, involving cutting-edge technology in the energy transition segment. Andrew Calder in Houston jointly oversees the department with Rohit Chaudhry in Washington DC, the latter of whom is noted for representing private equity funds, developers, lenders and institutional investors in a plethora of transactions, including project finance, M&A and project restructurings. Roald Nashi is another contact in DC especially for private equity and infrastructure funds. Based in Houston, John Pitts concentrates in M&A, private equity and divestitures in the energy sector, which are also among Kristin Mendoza's areas of expertise. She is located in New York.

Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: litigation Tier 3

A copyright-focused practice deeply embedded in the video gaming industry, the New York-based team Kirkland & Ellis LLP also handles matters pertaining to high-profile Broadway plays. Seasoned litigator Dale Cendali heads the team and outside the firm serves on the Council for the IP Section of the American Bar Association. She routinely works together with Joshua Simmons, an expert practitioner on the appellate and trial court stages. In recent highlights they have represented Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. on questions of copyright protection on individual dance-steps and tattoos in video games. Additionally recommended is Diana Torres from the firm’s Los Angeles office.

International Trade > International trade Tier 4

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s work in this space straddles its international trade and national security practice and also its government, regulatory and international investigations group. As such, the firm’s focus on export controls, economic sanctions and national security spans an array of regulatory compliance, transactions, investigations and enforcement-related matters. In Washington DC, Ivan Schlager is widely revered as a leader for CFIUS reviews, and is often selected for this function even when the transactional work is handled elsewhere. Mario Mancuso, who operates between Washington DC and New York, handles CFIUS matters, export controls and economic sanctions and is a popular choice for private equity sponsors, as well as corporations and financial institutions. New York-based Zachary Brez advises on economic sanctions, export controls and anti-corruption issues. Chicago-based Nick Niles is also known for his experience with private equity clients.

Dispute resolution > Leading trial lawyers Tier 4

James Hurst – Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Mandates taken on by James Hurst include patent, product liability, contract and trade secrets litigation, for which he has a strong track record. Historical matters include representing Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. and affiliates in a US District Court as part of a consolidated patent infringement action against 16 pharmaceutical companies and their affiliates. He has also handled multiple appeals before the US Supreme Court.Sandra Goldstein – Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Renowned for her forté in securities and M&A litigation, New York based Sandra Goldstein has achieved more than 20 pretrial wins, including in a multi-billion dollar securities fraud class action lawsuit where she won a significant summary judgment. In an ongoing matter, Goldstein defended Constellation Brands and some of its subsidiaries in a case brought by Modelo de Mexico involving contract and trademark claims relating to the use of the Corona trademarks.Aaron Marks – Kirkland & Ellis LLPGregory Arovas – Kirkland & Ellis LLPWilliam Pratt – Kirkland & Ellis LLP

Industry focus > Energy regulation: oil and gas Tier 4

Kirkland & Ellis LLP represents clients before federal and state regulatory agencies, including the CFTC and FERC on natural gas and oil pipeline matters. Areas of expertise include enforcement investigations, pipeline shipper contracts and interconnection, along with the development of hydrogen and carbon capture technology, among others. The group has also advised clients on several issues arising from winter storm Uri. Brooksany Barrowes and Robert Fleishman are the key contacts in Washington DC.

Industry focus > Healthcare: life sciences Tier 4

 Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s ‘top-notch’ team advises on transactions and significant litigation. It is particularly known for its IP litigation practice, with partners Jay Lefkowitz in New York and Matt Rowen in Washington DC particularly regarded for their work on appellate litigations. It also acts on major product liability matters, with Lefkowitz advising GlaxoSmithKline, Torrent Pharmaceuticals and Amneal Pharmaceuticals on multiple consolidated class actions related to the drug Zantac. Chicago-based James Hurst is recognized for his work on Supreme Court cases and New York-based Patricia Carson is a key patent strategy advisor.

Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: transactional Tier 4

Experts in transactions with intangible assets as their core, the team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP is a go-to for financial services company Blackstone on investments into the music sector, but also handles matters pertaining to video games and content production. From Chicago, Seth Traxler leads investments into media companies and recently advised The Carlyle Group in their acquisition of British video game studio Jagex. In New York, Shellie Freedman employs her expertise in agreements centered around IP and technology. Rory Wellever, previously at Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP, joined the Chicago office in June 2021; a specialist in software-related cases, he has worked substantially on matters for Blackstone.

Real estate > Construction (including construction litigation) Tier 5

Government > Government relations

Industry focus > Insurance: non-contentious

Industry focus > Healthcare: service providers

Industry focus > Transport: rail and road - litigation and regulation

India > Foreign firms

Kirkland & Ellis LLP's broad expertise covers M&A, financing, antitrust, regulatory, litigation, arbitration and cross-border investigations, among other areas. In New York, Srinivas Kaushik acts for private equity funds and multinationals on domestic and international M&A, leveraged buyouts and strategic investments, while Atif Khawaja is recommended for IP disputes. Chicago’s Asheesh Goel is a name to note for corruption investigations and Hong Kong’s Cori Lable handles investigations and compliance matters.